ABSTRACT
Fol. 259 a. conclude immediately I that there will be rain. And if a thick cloud standeth opposite to its rays when it riseth, it portendeth rain. Now, if there be thunders and lightnings at a distance, they make known [the approach of] winter. And if there be lightnings sometimes from the south, and sometimes from the north, and sometimes from the east, it is right to know that winds are coming from afar, and they make known [the approach of] winter. And also when the birds of the sea are continually flying up out of the water and dipping themselves into it again, and when the bow which appeareth in the clouds is double, they portend rain. And by analogy also when the stag belloweth, and when the crane standeth on the edge of a lake with its head submerged, or diving under water, they indicate [the approach of) winter. And when oxen, having eaten their fill, turn their heads to the south continually; and when the birds of the house flutter about, and move up and down, and cry out frequently; and when flies bite persistently; and when bats fall down into the lamp; and when thou seest sparks in the cooking :pot; and when zame, that is to say, flies, run greedily towards the food; and when the cock croweth in the middle of the night; and when the spider's web falleth down of its own accord, there being no wind blowing; and when the rays of the sun are black; and when the fire will only burn with the greatest difficulty; and when sheep frisk about; then know that after three days there will be rain. Similarly also ~hen oxen lick their hoofs, and go to their
