300 
Two species of scorpions, (Hala) both venomous, 
are found there, one of which inhabits the marshes 
and stagnant waters, where it frequently bites the 
cattle, who seldom survive it. There is likewise a 
large black spider, (Vancoho) which is represented 
as the most dangerous insect they have; if a person 
is bitten by it, he instantly falls into a swoon, in 
which some have been known to continue for two 
days, as cold as ice. The remedy used is the same 
as for the bite of the scorpion —they make a good fire, 
and hold the patient near it, and then pour down 
his throat a decoction of certain herbs, which com¬ 
monly cures him. 
Centipedes, (Anacalife), which are venomous, 
wood-lice, earwigs, bugs, and other offensive insects, 
are met with in every part of the island. 
The Acalalau is a small insect resembling a bug, 
but not so disagreeable: it is very troublesome in the 
houses, gnawing the furniture and apparel, and mak¬ 
ing a great havoc. It grow r s to the size of a man’s 
thumb, when it becomes winged, and flies away. 
The Anacandef is a snake, not larger than a 
quill. Sometimes it will get into the bodies of the 
natives, and if not instantly extracted, will gnaw the 
intestines, create the most excruciating pains, and 
even occasion death. 
The species of flies are very numerous, and some 
of them are of the most brilliant colours. Very few of 
them are described,—nor would a detail be interesting 
to the general reader. We will, however, mention 
the fire-fly (Herecheroche), of which there are myriads 
