Note 164.1 — Chapter XV · THE COUVADE AND OTHER ILLUSTRATIONS OF THE STRENGTH OF THE BLOOD-TIE—CONCLUSION OF THE INQUIRY INTO THE THEORY OF THE LIFE-TOKEN.
Reading edition
This is a mere suggestion, of the value of which I am doubtful. Tertullian, retorting against the heathen the charge of blood, speaks of the drinking for epilepsy of the fresh blood of criminals killed in the arena at gladiatorial shows. Apol., ix. Perhaps, therefore, belief in the power of the blood of criminals, as such, may go back to an earlier date.