Zorastro : a romance / by Creswick J. Thompson [pseud.].

  • Charles Thompson
Date:
1899
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: Zorastro : a romance / by Creswick J. Thompson [pseud.]. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    the top of which were inscribed, in white characters, the signs of the Zodiac. On a circular table beneath, stood the magic crystal, a skull, and a dead hand; while on the floor was a pile of oaken-backed books with heavy clasps of brass. Another table in the centre of the room bore the astrolabe and a litter of bottles, gallipots and jars. In one corner stood a bronze brazier on a tripod, while from the ceiling, which was crossed by heavy oak beams, hung a brass lamp of curious workmanship, having seven flames. Seated in a massive chair, wearing a long- robe of rich purple cloth, heavily trimmed with fur, Zorastro waited to receive his patients. Around his waist was a broad belt of lion’s skin, while his head was covered by a close-fitting cap of black velvet. Into this mysterious apartment the tremb- ling sufferers were ushered one by one. Here Zorastro heard their woeful tale and after careful examination would give them the necessary advice, and sometimes a phial of medicine. Then they would depart, showering blessings on his head, until cut