Democratic Sentinel, Volume 17, Number 50, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 29 December 1893 — Supernatural Antidotes. [ARTICLE]

Supernatural Antidotes.

Most ancient kings and noblemen relied—to some extent, at least—on supernatural and magical means to protect themselves against poison. One kept a peacock always near him, because that bird ruffled up its feathers when any kind of poison was brought near; another had a cup and plate set with opals, because this gem was supposed to turn pale when touched with poison; another a rhinocerous horn, which caused poisonous liquors to effervesce. One wore a ring as a charm, another a bracelet, a third an amulet.—[ San Francisco Chronicle. It is said that the plot for oue of the recent train robberies was conoocted in a house numbered 1813. All the robbers have been caught They now believe in superstitions.