sustentation

Thus, under a plausible and specious humility, circumscribing the bounds of human reason, neglecting its powers, and leaving it wholly devoid of that sustentation which would lead to its expansion and culture.

It cannot be denied it [the chameleon] is (if not the moſt of any) a very abſtemious animall, and ſuch as by reaſon of its frigidity, paucity of bloud, and latitancy in the winter (about which time the obſervations are often made) will long ſubſist without a viſible ſuſtentation.