MOSCOW. 
99 
of a pied horse, or the veins in a piece of flint c “ AP - 
or marble); in short, whatsoever represents, or ' — , — ' 
is supposed to resemble, any thing belonging 
to their prodigious catalogue of superstitious 
objects, might occasion a resort of devo- 
tees, give rise to a church, or to a market- 
place for wax-chandlers, painters, and silver- 
smiths, as profitable as the shrine of Diana at 
Ephesus . 
A circumstance so likely has frequently Artificer* 
happened. A merchant of Moscow, more re- 
nowned for speculation than lor piety, caused 
a coffin to be dug up, some years ago, with the 
supposed body of a Saint, in the interior ol the 
empire, eastward of the city. The throng to 
this coffin, from all parts, became immense ; 
the blind were, as usual, healed; the lame left 
their crutches suspended as trophies of mira- 
culous cures ; and, in a short time, all the other 
churches were deserted, in consequence of the 
reputation of the newly-discovered Saint. It 
was moreover said, that his saintship was very 
passionate; that he was angry at being dis- 
turbed; and insisted upon having a church 
built over him, to ensure his future repose. A 
church was therefore erected; when news ol 
the whole affair reaching the ears ot the late 
Empress Catherine, she ordered the building to 
h 2 
