Page:Philosophical Transactions - Volume 003.djvu/172

 Here are Spiders, that spin their Webbs betwixt Trees standing seven or 8 fathom asunder; and they do their Work by spitting their Webb into the Air, where the Wind carries it from Tree to Tree. This Webb, when finisht, will snare a Bird as big as a Thrush. Your self may prove it, for I have sent you some.

As to the Bark of a Tree, with which we are said to cover our Houses, that is an error; for 'tis not the Bark, but the Leaves of a Tree, which we put to that use. And 'tis the Palmetto; without which Tree we could not live comfortably in this place. The Leaves of some of these Trees are eight or ten foot long, and nigh as broad. I know no Tree in the World, that can-equal it in the number of Commodities it affords.

'Tis reported, that in Virginia and upon the Coast of Florida the Indians live to a very great age; and that some of the People are of a Gigantick Stature, and stronger by farr than others.

As for the Eclipses of the Moon, you would have observ'd here, and be inform'd about, I can say little of them: but, I suppose, my worthy Friend Mr. Norwood will give you an account thereof to your content. If any thing should cause him to faile, it will be Age and weakness. He hath a great desire to serve the R. Society in every respect; which shall engage me also to serve both them and you to the utmost of my ability, remaining, &c. Bermuda, July 16, 1668,

E have here an Artist, that polishes Optick-Glasses on a Turn. I have seen a Glass of his Workmanship, which is very good, though the first, that ever he made this way. It is very neat, and approaches the Object very much, He turn these Glasses, as he does Wood, that is with the same facility. Rh