Page:Philosophical Transactions - Volume 012.djvu/214



His Book is divided by the Ingenious Author into ten Chapters, with a Conclusion.

Chap. 1. Treateth of the Air of Jamaica. As, amongst other particulars, of the Winds there, and several kinds of Breezes; with the Distempers they introduce. Shewing also, that 'tis thick and moist, though very hot. That it aboundeth with a Volatile Nitrous Salt; from the speedy rusting of Iron, and the great fructifying quality of the Rains and Dews there. With a Digression of the Nature or Production of Nitre, &c.

Chap. 2. Of the Place. As, with other matters of note, Whence not subject to Hurricanes. Description of Port Royal: with the advantages and inconveniences therein with respect to health. Account of the Sugar-works: and of the Distempers which proceed from much drinking of Rum, and other hot Liquors. Two great Rarities: the one a fort of Trees, not rotten, but living and growing, the Bark of which shines in the dark-most vividly, especially in rainy weather. The other a sort of Seeds, endued with an inward throbbing Puls or Spring of Motion: by means whereof they will also leap sometimes above a span high upon a Table; and being placed at a distance, continue that leaping motion one towards another: which power of self-motion they also retain, in some degree, for many days. Descriptions of several Parts of the Island. Of the Cacaa, and other Plants here produced. A Natural History of the Countrey promised.

Chap. 3. Of the Water. As of the River de Covre. How cured by the Spaniards, &c. A better water near the Port. Danger of Well-water, especially at Ligany. Rivers and Springs abound. A Vegetable which being cut, affords a co-