256 



GREAT LAMPREY. 



before and behind, and to behold two opposite 

 points at once. But at a more easy distance are 

 they situated in man, and in the same circum- 

 ference with the ear ; for if one foot of the compass 

 be placed upon the crown, a circle described there- 

 by will intersect or pass over both ears. The error 

 in this conceit consists in the ignorance of these 

 cavities, and their proper use in nature ; for this is 

 a particular disposure of parts, and a peculiar con- 

 formation whereby these holes and sluices supply 

 the defect of gills, and are assisted by the conduit 

 in the head ^ for like cetaceous animals and whales, 

 the lamprie hath a fistula, spout, or pipe at the 

 back part of the head, whereat it spurts out the 

 water ; nor is it only singular in this formation, 

 but also in many other." 



As an article of food the Lamprey has for many 

 ages maintained its credit as an exquisite dainty ; 

 and has uniformly made its appearance at the most 

 splendid of our ancient entertainments. The death 

 of King Henry the first, it is well known, is at- 

 tributed to a too luxurious indulgence in this hii§ 

 favourite dish. It still continues to be in high 

 esteem, and we are told by Mr. Pennant that 

 the city of Glocester continues to send yearly, at 

 Christmas, a present of a rich lamprey pye to the 

 King. It sometimes happens that the Lampries at 

 that season are so rare that a guinea is demanded 

 for the price of a single fish. They are most in 

 reason during March, April, and May, and are 

 observed to be much more firm, when fi'esh arrived 

 from sea than when they have been a considerably 



