Chap. 108 (104.) — Of Maltha
In Samosata, a city of Commagene700, there is a pool which discharges an inflammable mud, called Maltha701. It adheres to every solid body which it touches, and moreover, when touched, it follows you, if you attempt to escape from it. By means of it the people defended their walls against Lucullus, and the soldiers were burned in their armour702. It is even set on fire in water. We learn by experience that it can be extinguished only by earth.