USED AS A STYPTIC AND SOPORIFIC. 213 



In the equipage of Queen Mab, 



" The traces of the smallest spider's web," 



are in keeping with the rest of her appointments ; 

 and well were they adapted for her regal state, for 

 no eastern potentate ever harnessed his foaming 

 steeds by traces of so complicated a structure. 



Epeira (Uadema. 



The web of the common house- spider has long 

 been employed in stopping the effusion of blood. 

 This has not escaped the all-pervading eye of 

 Shakspeare ; and hence. Bottom, in addressing one 

 of his fair)'- attendants, says, — 



" I shall desire you of more acquaintance, good Master Cobweb 

 If I cut my finger, I shall make bold with you." 



Midsummer yi(//il's Dream, Act III. So. I. 



Its medicinal virtues do not end here, for Professor 



