Book 15
1.69
Historians also relate that the Indians worship Jupiter Ombrius (or, the Rainy), the river Ganges, and the indigenous deities of the country; that when the king washes his hair,On the day of his birth, Herod. ix. 109. a great feast is celebrated, and large presents are sent, each person displaying his wealth in competition with his neighbour.
1.69
They say, that some of the gold-digging myrmeces (ants) have wings; and that the rivers, like those of Iberia,Of Armenia. bring down gold-dust.
1.69
In processions at their festivals, many elephants are in the train, adorned with gold and silver, numerous carriages drawn by four horses and by several pairs of oxen; then follows a body of attendants in full dress, (bearing) vessels of gold, large basins and goblets, an orguiaAbout 6 feet. in breadth, tables, chairs of state, drinking-cups, and lavers of Indian copper, most of which were set with precious stones, as emeralds, beryls, and Indian carbuncles; garments embroidered and interwoven with gold; wild beasts, as buffaloes,The text is corrupt. Tzschucke’s emendation is adopted, viz. βόνασοι. Groskurd translates the word by hump-backed oxen, or zebus. panthers, tame lions, and a multitude of birds of variegated plumage and of fine song.
