^l6 SKETCH OF THE HISTORY OF THE 



gather the mi/letoe.''' As foon as all the facrifices 

 were ready, the prieft afcended the tree, and with 

 a golden hook cut off the mifletoe, which was re- 

 ceived on white Hnen fpread on the ground for that 

 purpofe. Two white bulls, that had never been 

 yoked, were now brought out and offered in facri- 

 fice, and prayers were made for the profperity of 

 thofe on whom fo precious a boon had been be- 

 ftowed. The miflletoe thus gathered was deemed 

 ^ certain antidote to all kinds of poifon ; and it \vas 

 -ufed as a fpecific in various difeafes. 



The fixth day of the moon commenced the druid*s 

 month, and on this day it was that their moft facred 

 folemnities were performed. It appears probable 

 that, with the generality of mankind, they fet apart 

 alfo one day in feven for religious worfhip. They 

 had other feflivals and folemnities, but at prefent 

 \ye know not what they were. 



In all the orders of druidifm the hair was worn 

 . very fhort, and the beards extremely long. All wore 

 long habits ; and the druids, when performing their 

 religious rites, were clad in robes of white, emblems 

 (they taught) of their truth and piety. The bards 

 •on thefe occafions wore azure garments, with cowls 

 to them, as fymbols of heaven, peace, and fidelity. 

 The garments of the ovates were green, emblems 

 of learning and truth. 



The candidates for the rank of druid underwent 

 a noviciate of twenty years. During this time they 

 had to learn thofe almofl innumerable verfes in 



which 



