they make a certain Sound from their Throats like Belching.
In one thing they shew a great Dexterity of Wit, and that is in Stealing. He that pilfers most neatly, is counted a brave Fellow; but he that does it bungingly, is esteemed a Dunce and a Block-*head, not worthy to live; and even his own Father or his Son, will sell or exchange him for a small Matter to Merchant-strangers, to be carried away they care not whither.
An Italian Merchant who had been in these Parts, told me, that a certain Priest of theirs, stole his Knife as he was in their Temple. He perceived the Theft, but dissembling it, gave him the Sheath also, that he might put up his stol'n Ware.
When they go into their Temples, they have some esteem for the Images of the Virgin Mary, of Peter and Paul, and other Saints; but their greatest Veneration is for the Image of St. George on Horseback. They fall down prostrate before it, kissing every part of it; even his Horse's Shoes. They say, he was a valiant Man, a great Warrior, that in a single Combat did openly fight Hand to Hand with the Devil, and either conquer'd, or, at least, foil'd him.
I'll acquaint you with one Passage more, which you cannot but stand amazed at. 'Tis this.
The Princes of the East are always presented with Gifts at any Audience. Dadianus, in compliance with this Custom, brought Solyman a Cup or Dish of Carbuncle, so bright and shining, that in a dark Night a Man might travel by the Light of it, as well as at Noon-day. I cannot believe it, you'll say: Nor do I: Neither can I be angry with you for suspending your Belief; but, whatever you and I do, let me tell you, there are enough that do believe it. The more judicious
