CHAP. 27. —ANTHRACITIS.

There is also a fossil stone found in Thesprotia, known as "anthracitis,"[1] and resembling a burning coal[2] in appearance. Those who have stated that it is a native also of Liguria, are mistaken, in my opinion, unless perhaps it was to be found there in their time. Some of these stones, they say, are surrounded with a vein of white. Like those which we have mentioned above, they have a fiery colour, but there is this peculiarity in them, that when thrown into the fire they have all the appearance of becoming quenched and deadened; while, on the other hand, if they are drenched with water, they become doubly glowing.[3]

1. See B. iv. c. 1.

2. "Carbo." This word may mean either a "burning coal" or" charcoal," hence the confusion that has arisen in identifying the mineral substance that is meant.

3. See Note 90, to Chapter 25.