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CHAP. 101. (9S.)—WONDERS OF THE SEA.

All seas are purified at the full moon1; some also at stated periods. At Messina and Mylæ refuse matter, like dung2, is cast up on the shore, whence originated the story of the oxen of the Sun having had their stable at that place. To what has been said above (not to omit anything with which I am acquainted) Aristotle adds, that no animal dies except when the tide is ebbing. The observation has been often made on the ocean of Gaul; but it has only been found true with respect to man3.

1 It has been suggested, with some plausibility, that the greater height of the tides at this period will cause a greater quantity of matter to be cast on shore. This circumstance is referred to by Seneca, Nat. Quæst. iii. 26; and by Strabo.

2 Alexandre observes on this supposed fact, "Algarum molles quædam species intelligendæ sunt, quæ convolutæ et marcidæ in littus ejiciuntur." Lemaire, i. 432.

3 It may cause some surprise to find that such an opinion has been entertained even in modern times; but more correct observation has shown it to be without foundation. Lemaire.

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