(8.) A very curious shrine (Moslem) is one at the very top of the Citadel of Mytilene, the tomb of a dervish. They keep sheepskins here, and the worshippers wrap themselves in these when they pray. This reminds us of the (
Greek characters). It is possible that the Moslems have here preserved a bit of Greek ritual.
(9.) In the street of Eresos is a tiny shrine; a cupboard, which being opened, discloses a gaudy but tattered picture of St. George and the Dragon, some other pictures, and an oblong bean-shaped stone, about 12 inches long; black with grease. This they stick candles on, and I think it may be a (Greek characters).
Animals, Birds, &c.:—For the Ass, see under May 1.
When the jay appears, something must be drunk before its voice is heard, else the breath will have an evil smell. The same is done on seeing the cuckoo for the first time; my informant did not know why.
Lesbos is a good place for stories. Mr. Paton has already gathered a good many there; and I venture to hope that the Society will support his design of making a collection of Island Stories: little or nothing has been hitherto done for this part of the Greek world. Some excellent stories were told us while I was there, and I subjoin three of them. The third (a version of the Forty Thieves) was written down by Mr. Paton; and in the others he gave me much help, for which I thank him here.
(1.) The Snake-Cypress.
Once upon a time there was a man and wife, who had an only son, and they sent him far away across the seas to learn music. In due time he came back, and everybody agreed that he played to a marvel; but his mother was angry with him, because he was in love with some girl she did not like. "All right," quoth he, "give me some money
