[1639] Of this kind, probably. See Beckmann, Hist. Inv. Vol. I. p. 182.
[1640] From this vitreous appearance of the crystals of vitriol, it is most probable that vitriol derives its name. See Beckmann, Vol. I. p. 184.
[1641] “Drop,” or “globule” chalcanthum.
[1642] Possibly a corruption of “leucoion,” “violet white.”
[1643] He has described the mode of procuring salt, by evaporating the brine in shallow pits, in B. xxxi. c. 39.—B.
[1644] It is difficult to ascertain the exact nature of the substances treated of in this Chapter. Ajasson has some judicious remarks upon them, in which he points out what appear to be inconsistencies in the account given of them, and of their relation to each other.—B. Ajasson says that there is no doubt that a mammose or terreous carbonate of copper is meant under these names. These substances are no longer known, but our tutty, or impure oxide of zinc, bears some resemblance to them.
[1645] See B. xix. c. 4, and Chapters [34] and [52] of this Book.
[1646] A Greek word, signifying “ashes,” or the residuum after combustion.—B.
[1647] From the corresponding passage in Dioscorides, there is some doubt whether the account of this process here given is correct.—B.
[1648] So called from Laurium, a district in Attica, in which there were silver mines. See Pausanias, B. i.—B.