[2661] See Note 6 above.
[2662] “Lacrymantibus sine fine oculis.”
[2663] Ajasson remarks, that Pliny has given here a much more exact description of the varieties of the Spider, than in the Eleventh Book. The learned Commentator gives an elaborate discussion, of eighteen pages, on the varieties of the Spider as known to the ancients in common with modern naturalists.
[2664] Green is universally the colour least fatiguing to the eye.
[2665] See B. xx. c. 23.
[2666] See B. vii. c. 27, and B. viii. c. 41. The formic acid which ants contain may possibly possess some medicinal properties.
[2667] Ajasson suggests that this may be the Lacerta cœpium of Dandin, of a reddish brown colour, with two blackish lines running longitudinally along the back.
[2668] This insect in reality is a woodlouse, whereas the millepedes previously described are evidently caterpillars. Woodlice are still swallowed alive by schoolboys, and old women are to be found who recommend them for consumption. Holland says that woodlice are good for pains in the ears.
[2669] “Perniciosam.”
[2670] In the middle ages there were many superstitions with reference to this insect, some of which have survived to the present day.