Note 13 — SECTION VI. Rockets.

So called, from their resemblance (when in action) to the rod borne by Mercury; which, according to fabulous history, was entwisted by two serpents, as the sign and quality of his office, which was given him for his seven stringed harp.—The term (or Caduce) was also used among the Romans, and applied to a staff or wand of a similar form, carried by those officers who went to proclaim peace with any people with whom they had been at variance.