This line was then applied to that event in this very roundabout manner. Sara is Aras backward. By the ancient toads were meant the French: as that nation formerly had for its armorial bearings three of those odious reptiles, instead of the three flowers de luce which it now bears. (Seward's Anecdotes, vol. i. p. 78.) Nostradamus died in 1566.
C. B.
Juba Issham (Vol. v., p. 435.).—The signature is two names. The first needs no explanation; Juba, in Cato, is the lover of Marcia: the second may merely mean that the first is assumed, or false. We have such a surname as Isham, but it is spelt with one s only.
C. B.
Optical Phenomenon (Vol. v., p. 441.).—The circumstance mentioned by your correspondent is only one instance of a very familiar fact, that sight is rendered clearer by diminishing the quantity of rays, which might confuse one another. Some for that purpose look between two fingers brought near. Others nearly close their eyes, &c.
C. B.
Bishop of London's House (Vol. v., p. 371.).—In the Wards of London, by H. Thomas, 1828, vol. i. p. 7., we are told that—
"The great fire of London having destroyed the Palace of the Bishop of London, which was near St. Paul's Cathedral, this house [Peter House, which stood on the west side, about the middle of Aldersgate Street] was purchased for the city mansion of the prelates of the diocese, one of whom only resided there, Bishop Henchman, who died there, and was buried at Fulham, A.D. 1675. It was then called London House, and, being subsequently deserted, was let out into private tenements until 1768; when it was entirely destroyed by fire while in the occupation of Mr. Seddon, an upholsterer and cabinet-maker."
A large brick building now covers the site, and retains the name of "London House." It is occupied by Mr. H. Burton, builder.
In the work above quoted I find no mention of a residence of the Bishops of London in Bishopsgate. I therefore conclude that the one I have alluded to, is that respecting which your correspondent wishes to learn.