From the same superstition, metals and stones were supposed to be endowed with singular virtues: the opal, to grow pale at the touch of poison; the emerald, to remove intoxication; and the carbuncle, “only to be found in the head of the dragon, the hideous inhabitant of the island of Ceylon,” to shine in the darkness. As the metal called gold always bore the highest value, it was concluded, from an absurd analogy, that its power to preserve health and cure disease must likewise surpass that of all other applications. Multitudes gave themselves to busy idleness in attempting to render it potable, and to prevent it from again being converted into metal. Not only did they labour in obscure situations, but in the splendid laboratories of nobles and sovereigns. Men of rank, impelled by one common frenzy, formed secret alliances; and even proceeded to such extravagance as to bring ruinous debts on themselves and their posterity. The object of which they were in pursuit was “an elixir of life.” In Italy, Germany, France, and other countries, the common people often denied themselves the necessaries of life, to save as much as would purchase a few drops of the tincture of gold, which was superstitiously or fraudulently offered for sale. So fully did they confide in the efficacy of this imaginary power, that on it generally depended their only hope of recovery. Positively was the desired boon promised, but only to mock expectation. Our times are in the hands of God; and at his will the dust returns to the dust from whence it was taken, and the spirit to him who gave it. How fearful was the ignorance that prevailed in the bygone times to which a reference has been made! What gratitude should we feel for the advantages we enjoy! Let us, then, constantly remember that as to us much has been given, so of us much will be required; and that one kind of knowledge surpasses all others: “This,” said the adorable Redeemer, “is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent,” John xvii. 3. CHAPTER II. Feats of modern magicians--Their wonders explained--The snake-charmers of India--A Chinese delusion--The magician of Cairo. Wonder-workers have often appeared. Some of them have lately repeated their most remarkable feats in London and various places in England, varied by others of inferior interest. Large and astonished assemblies have witnessed their performance, and public journals have described them as absolutely “inexplicable.” And yet, though the writer has no personal acquaintance with any modern “magician,” he has no doubt that all their feats may be accounted for, from sleight-of-hand, confederacy, ingenious contrivance, or the application of some natural law. A few illustrations shall now be given.