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which have the attribute of taking away swelling and redness of
the eyes. There is also found there a stone that is called
topaz, the color of which is like fine gold; it
has great virtue. The ruby is also found there,
a stone much sought after and loved among people.
It is also of much greater value and worth than
the topaz. It is a delight to the eye and is
very strengthening for it, especially for those who
wear it. There are in India many other kinds of stones
having in themselves very great virtues and qualities.
Anyone who wishes to know more about these virtues and
qualities can read about them in a book called the
Lapidary, where one will find their names and attributes.
For the present, however, we will end this subject
in order to tell you about the countries of the realm of India.
[rubric:] This speaks of the countries of the region of the Indies. [/rubric]
In India there are many large and marvelous countries
that are inhabited by many different kinds of peoples and
a great multitude of beasts of many kinds and conditions.
On country among these is called Persia. It con-