Basil Valentine his Last Will and Testament

Baſilius Valentinus, Monk, of the Order of St. BENNET: His laſt WILL and TESTAMENT.

Which being alone, He hid under a Table of Marble, behinde the High-Altar of the Cathedral Church, in the Imperial City of Erford: leaving it there to be found by him, whom Gods Providence ſhould make worthy of it.

WHEREIN, He ſufficiently, declares the wayes he wrought to obtain the Philoſophers Stone: which he taught unto his fellow Collegians, ſo that they all attained the ſaid Philoſophers Stone, whereby not onely the leprous bodies of the impure, and inferior Metals are reduced unto the pure and perfect body of Gold and Silver, but alſo all manner of diſeaſes whatſoever are cured in the bodies of unhealthfull men, and kept thereby in perfect health unto the prolonging of their lives.

A Work long expected.

LONDON, Printed by W.B. for T. Davis, and are to be ſold at his ſhop in St. Pauls Church-yard at the ſigne of the Bible over againſt the little North door, 1658.

To the Reader.

gratis, even ſuch diſeaſes, which humane learning judged to be incurable: and if he got any riches, he ſupplied the wants of the needy.

Let not the vitious hearts and hands preſume to meddle with it, leſt in ſtead of a bleſſing they ſhould meet with a curſe. Therefore, Procul hinc, procul ite prophani.

In this book are contained theſe following heads.

1. THe nature, condition, and property of Myne-works, in which Minerals and Metals do grow; of their firſt ſeed, birth, quality, and property, and of their exhalation and inhalation, how they are ſupported in their growth and augmentation.

2. The occaſion of Oars, Stones, Rocks, Marbles, of their paſſages and Clefts, their Liquors, Juyces, Energies, and operations, viz. of Gold, Silver, Copper, Iron, Tin, Lead, Quick-ſilver, and of Minerals.

3. A plain literal expreſſion of that Univerſal Elixar, whereby a healthfull life is prolonged, all diſeaſes expelled, and abundance of riches obtained: with a perfect Declaration of the XII. Keyes.

4. A particular Deſcription of Metals, whereby their ſeveral endowments are declared, how they ſerve to keep man in perfect health, with many Manuals for the working of them to ſerve man to live more comfortably in outward means; and how Metals and Minerals in particular are brought to their higheſt preparation, whereby is procured that men may live in this World without wanting things neceſſary.

5. A tranſcendent, moſt precious wonderfull Medicine of Metals and Minerals, and of other things, which the Creator of heaven and earth, and all the things contained therein, ordained for the good of man.

PREFACE AND ENTRANCE UPON BASILIUS VALENTINUS His laſt TESTAMENT.

WHereas the time is come, that by the good pleaſure of Almighty God my Creator, and his dearly beloved Sonne JESUS CHRIST, my Laboratorie in this corruptible World draweth to an end, and am to approach from this earthly Laboratorie unto the heavenly, and am creeping dayly and hourly nearer to the end, and am to cloſe according to the appointed time of my dear Saviour, aiming at the true Manna, or heavenly food of Eternal bliſſe, ſighing continually after the enjoying of ſuch riches, which have a fulneſſe of everlaſting joyes I thought it my duty in conſcience, to be reconciled i[•] a Chriſtian way to my fellow Members that are aliv[•] at the preſent, and with thoſe, which are to ſucceed i[•] future ages, ſo that my Soul may be at reſt, patient waiting for the Lords call, and to become an inhabitant of that heavenly Paradiſe, and to be matriculated into the book of life, and ſtand in readineſſe da[•] and night to look for my Lords coming. At the conſideration hereof I call to minde my writings, which ſet down to paper, as other ancient Philoſophers hav[•] done before me, publiſhing all ſuch myſteries of nature, whereby Artiſts, and ſuch that bear an affection and love unto ſuch myſtical truths may be benefited, and the ſame I lovingly and readily leave t[•] them, as much as the highest Spagyrick, and heavenly Phyſician hath granted and revealed unto me; My conſcience further hath preſſed me, in the purſuance of a Chriſtian love, and performance of my promiſe, dictated by nature, to make a larger relation, becauſe it is a thing meet and neceſſarie to ſet forth the Manuals which are belonging hereunto, and ought to be deſcribed circumſtantially, to inform the judgement of ſuch men, addicted hereunto to the full; namely how natures bolts, which ſhe ſeveral wayes thruſted forward, to lock ſtrongly her ſecrets, are to be thruſte[•] back, that the doors of worldly Treaſures might be unlockt, that the knowledge of tranſcendent myſterie[•] may be attained unto, & upon ſerious continued prayers unto the Creator, mens judgement and underſtanding might the more be egg'd on.

I am not put upon either by force or indigencie, nor by a vain-glorie, or ſelf-end to ſet down any letter; and to leave it to poſterity; onely a meer conſideration of the frailty &, of the miſerableneſs of this world where the Children of darkneſſe are almoſt quite loſt in their groaping wayes, hath cauſed me to do ſo. I am not able to expreſſe how much my minde is perplexed, when I think on the folly of this frail world, and conſider the Cymmerian darkneſſe of its Children, which think themſelves of deep underſtanding, when they have heard ſome fopperies of their Ʋniverſity Chair-men diſcourſed of, thereby ſuppoſing to be much enlightned in their underſtandings. Where is that high and precious Medicine of the ancient Philoſophers, which lived before any Ʋniverſity was talk'd, or heard of, who received their Revelations upon an earneſt pious prayer unto God, joyning thereunto their dayly ſearchings into natural things, and laying their hands to the work. Whither I ſay, is fled their painfulneſſe and induſtry? Surely to no other place, than to the horrid, impure, and ſordid Apothecaries ſhops, deeply precipitated and buried in the earth, and ſunk ſo deep, that the ringing nor ſounding of bells, and beating of Morters are able to rouſe it: thus their praiſe and the glorie of the highest is at a ſtand! and who produceth any good of it? Thus much am I perſwaded, that if my writings ſhall be produced to light after my death, and the judicious posteritie, the Apoſtles and Diſciples of them do rightly read, meditate, nnd underſtand them well, and do out of a Chriſtian intention ſeek, dive, and work the ſame onely to the glorie of God, and the love and charity of their fellow brethren and Chriſtians, than by means of their actions and works, that depend, from ſuch good and proper fundamentals, will be diſcovered and laid open to the publick view, all thoſe fopperies and forgeries, which theſe great mouth'd vain-glorious fellows, and high conceited fools, which proclaim themſelves to be the ſole Phyſicians and Maſters of both Medicines, that is of the inward and outward, and arrogate to themſelves great dignities and worths in the world, when there is no cauſe for it. Their intentions are ſet upon no other foundations, but to live in great respect, to haunt after vain-glorie with a ſear'd conſcience, to deprive their fellow Chriſtians of their monies by cheating, all they look for, is to be talk'd of, and live in reputation; they ſtick full of diabolical pride and vanity up to the ears, theſe in the end, in great woe and miſerie have their poor Souls drowned moſt lamentably! woe, woe, to you Children of Sathan! Here I intend not to uſe any prolixity of words, nor to bring in any ſuch matters, which are heterogeneal to my purpoſe; at the cloſing of my book I will be more large in my expreſſions, as far as the heavenly Prince ſhall enable me to do, where, as for a final Corollarie to all my writings, I ſhall annex things with that proviſo and intreaty, that all thoſe, which intend to be real, and conſcionable in their Medicaments, may aide & cure their oppreſſed fellow Chriſtians, and to ſearch and inquire into ſuch things, which God for ſuch purpoſes hath ordained, and implanted them into nature.

This preſent book of mine deſerves to be called [A light unto darkneſſe] for other things, which in my former writings I have diſcourſed of by way of parables, which ſtile I made uſe of the rather, becauſe it is proper to Philoſophers, are declared in this my laſt information, where I deal in plain and clear words, deſcribing, and naming the matter openly, ſhewing the preparations from the beginning, to the middle and end, demonſtrating, and ſetting before the eyes of men the matter in general and particular, confirming, and juſtifying the truth thereof, and making a diſtinction betwixt the ground and no ground, in ſo plain terms, that the very Children may underſtand, and feel it with their hands. And becauſe this book affordeth another knowledge, differing from others of my writing, wherein I have not written ſo obſcurely, nor made I uſe of ſuch ſubtilties, as the ancients did, who lived before me, and ended their dayes happily, therefore doth it require another place alſo to be laid up in, and kept ſecret from the perverſeneſſe of men in the world. I do not deſire it ſhould be buried with me, to be a prey, and food for Worms, but it ſhall be left above ground, and kept ſecret, from wicked men, and my purpoſe is, that it ſhall be laid into a ſecret place, where none ſhall come near it, but he, for whom God hath ordained it, other writings of mine ſhall ſooner ſee the publick light.

But know thou, whoever thou art, into whoſe hand this my laſt Teſtament comes, which contains the Revelation of heavenly and earthly myſteries, it will happen to thee by a divine providence, to whoſe cuſtody, at my devotion then perform'd, I committed it, depoſiting the ſame into that ſecret place together with other things, not inforced upon any grounds of neceſsities, or ſtraightneſſes, to leave it there, onely for him, whom Gods goodneſſe ſhall appoint to finde it. For it is not good for me to let God's Creatures and myſterie, which are too abſtruſe already, and ſtept from the light into darkneſſe, by reaſon of the malicious perverſeneſſe of the wicked world to die with me, as envious men are with to do with gifts, they are entrusted withall; but even leave a glimpſe of truth and of the clear heaven, thinking befitting to diſcharge my conſcience in putting forth the talent to uſury, let the will of the Lord be done in him, whom he deemeth to be worthy of it, into whoſe care and diligence I commit it from henceforth and for ever. For I a Cloyſter-man, and an unworthy Servant of the Divine infinite Trinitie confeſſe, and ackowledge, that I ſhould never have come ſo far in my knowledge of theſe endleſſe myſteries, in the Analogie of natural things, in the melioration, & changing their qualities, for a ſure and ſtrong upholding of this profound knowledge of the true Medicine, according to this Ordinance (whereby I am ready to do good to all and every one, which deſireth my help herein) which as I have done hitherto, ſo my deſire is that God would enable me to do the ſame to the laſt of my breathing I ſay I ſhould never have attained unto it, if by God ſpecial goodneſſe, grace, and mercie, ſeveral books had not come into my hands, written of ancient Maſters which departed this life a long time before me, cauſing great joy to me, ſtirring up in me a return of hearty thanks to God, who ſo graciouſly was pleaſed in his providence to beſtow them on me in the Cloyſter before any of my Fellows.

I do ſpeak it without any vain-glorie, I have done ſo much good thereby to my fellow-Chriſtians, as ever was poſſible for me to do, which next to God, returned thanks for it, even to the end of my dayes.

Now whereas I can be Steward no longer, I have done according as my abilities would give leave: let others alſo be induſtrious, and not defective in their Stewardſhip. I return mine into the faithfull hands of God Almighty, and deliver up to his Divine power and glorie, inſtead of the Keyes for the houſe, all the allotted myſteries ſet down here in my writing; leaving them to his dispoſing, to bestow them after my death unto him, whom his Divine will ſhall chuſe thereunto, to be for the knowledge of his praiſe-worthy name, the good and help of ſuch, that ſtand in want of neceſſaries and health, for the avoiding and ſhunning of all worldly pompe, pride, wantonneſſe, luxurie, raſhneſſe, pleaſure, covetouſneſſe, and ſpightfulneſſe, or contempt of others.

O Lord God Almighty, mercifull, Gracious Father of thine onely begotten Son Jeſus Chriſt, who art onely the Lord of Sabaoth, the principle of all things that are made by thy Word, and definite end of all Creatures above and below; I poor miſerable Man, and Earth-worm, return thanks with my babling tongue from the innermoſt Center of my heart, who haſt been pleaſed to enlighten me with the great light of thy heavenly and earthly wiſdom, and the greateſt myſteries of the created ſecrecies and treaſures of this World, together with thy Divine ſaving word, by which I learn to know thine Almighty power and wonders. To thee belongs eternal praiſe, honour, and glor[•]e, from eternity unto eternity, that thou hast beſtowed on me health and lively hood, ſtrength, and ability, to be helpfull to my fellow Christians in their neceſſities and inflicted infirmities with thoſe myſtical healing Medicines, together with ſuch ſpiritual comforts, to raiſe the drooping ſpirits. Lord, to thee alone belongs power, might, and glorie, to thee is the praiſe, honour, and gratefulneſſe, for all the mercies and graces thou haſt beſtowed on me, and haſt preſerved me therein till to this my great age, and loweſt weakneſſe. O! thou God of all graces, and father of all comforts, be not angrie with me, that I deliver up to thee, mine eternal Creator, the Keyes of my Stewardſhip, wrapt up in this Pergamene, according to the dutie, my calling and conſcience calls for: with theſe thou ſuffer'ſt me to keep houſe the moſt of my time, till now, thou haſt called, and foreſeen me to be thy ſervant and Steward, and haſt graciouſly afforded, that I ſhould enjoy the noble ſweet fruits, which were gathered in thy Almonarie to my laſt inſtant end, which now, O Lord, lieth in thy power. I beſeech thee for the dear merits of Jeſus Chriſt, come now, whe thou pleaſeſt, incloſe my heart, receive my Soul into thy heavenly Throne of grace, let her be recommended unto thee graciouſly, O thou faithfull God, who haſt redeemed her on the holy Croſſe with the moſt precious Tincture of the true bloud of thy holy bodie: then is my life well ended on this earth, grant to the bodie a quiet reſt, till at the laſt day, bodie and ſoul joyn again, and are of a heavenly compoſition: for now my onely deſire is to be diſſolved, and to be with my Lord Christ, The which thou Almighty, Holy, and Heavenly Trinitie grant to me, and all good Chriſtian believers. Amen.

That I may come to the work intended, and make a beginning of the work in hand, if God be pleaſed to let this book come to thy hands, before all things unceſſantly you return heartie, and unfeigned thanks for it: in the next place I beſeech him to beſtow on thee alſo grace and bleſſing, a healthfull bodie, ſucceſfully to accompliſh all the points ſet down here, which tend to the well-fare and benefit of thy Neighbour, and to prepare them according to the Manuals, which to that end I ſet down, and preſcribe them, that you may happily and ſuccesfully begin the work, that the middle and end be correspondent thereunto. Then be not flap-tong'd, and reſolve abſolutely in thy he[••]t, not to entruſt with theſe myſteries any malicious, ungratefull, and falſe men, much leſſe ſhouldſt thou make them partakers thereof: for if Almightie God would beſtow it on others, he could do it immediately, and grant the ſame by other means and wayes without thee. Therefore look to it, tempt not the Lord thy God, for he will not be mock'd. Be ſilent and reſerving; be meditating on Gods puniſhment, which no your is able to out-run; keep a good intention; let not man greedie minde run on how you may get abundance of Gold and Silver riches, and vanitie, but before all things, which are written herein, let that be your chi feſt aim, how you may appear helpfull in word and deed to promote the health of thy Neighbour Chriſtian: Then have you given, and brought an offering of thanks and God will beſtow more upon thee, and with ſuch Revelations will come to thee, more than ever you would have believed.

Therefore inſtead of a perfect Phyſick book I have annexed at the end thoſe precious Medicines; with which even to this hour, I have cured ſuccesfully many d fficult Symptomes, and diſeaſes, held by others to be incurable: which I recommend unto thee with the reſt of the things contained in theſe writings, to thy conſcience to be warie, and not to abuſe any of them, as much as thy life and Soul is near and dear unto thee.

If thou receiveſt this faithfull admonition and wa[•]ning, which I give unto thee here and there at the beginning, middle, and end, and in other places alſo, and doeſt accordingly, then thou canſt not be too thankfull for theſe things, which through Gods permiſſion ſhall be intimated and made known to thee out of this book

But in caſe thou wilt ſtrive againſt my faithfull warning and fatherly admonition, theſe myſteries, which were hid from the learned, and thou ſufferſt to come into ſtrange hands! look to thy ſelf, blame not me, think not that there is any reconciliation for thee, being cut off from all thoſe, which live and die in Christ.

Thus I let it reſt, committing execution to the Highest, which dwelleth in Heaven, who puniſheth and avengeth all manner of ſins, vices, iniquities, and covenant-breakings. Whereas I thought it neceſſarie thus to deſcribe this my Declaration before my other Writings, and to prove the ſame with examples, that every one, whom God ſhall judge to be worthie of, may conceive, underſtand, and fathom the true beginning, the true middle, and the true end of all created things. Thereupon I purpoſed to make a beginning of it with a neceſſary relation of the Original, beginning, and exiſtencie of Minerals and Metals, from which ariſeth this moſt noble and precious Medicine, whereby is procured a healthfull long life, and abundance of riches are obtained: Namely from whence Minerals and Metals have their original, how they be brought to light, that ſearchers into Natural things may know the whole Nature in her circumference, before ever they lay hand to the work, and acquaint themſelves well therewith: then ſtill the one will ſtream and run forth the other, one Art will produce the other; at laſt all what is ſought for, will be overtaken in joy, and that which hath been long'd for, will happily be enjoyed.

This my book I divide into five parts, each of them is ſubdivided into certain Chapters and Parts. A[•] for the ſtile uſed here, it ought not to be expected to be any other than is meet for a Miner, after the condition of Mine-works, waving all Rhetorick, and Poetical[•] manne of eloquent expreſſions.

I.

In the firſt part of my intended work I will deſcribe chiefly the manner nature and properties of Myne-works, in which grow Minerals and Metals, of the firſt ſperm, nativitie, qualitie, and propertie, as alſo of the exhalation and inhalation.

II.

The ſecond part ſhall be a kinde of recapitulation of the firſt part, where ſhall be contained alſo a relation of the condition and occaſion of Mines, Oars, Stones, paſſages and Clefts, with their coherent liquors, powers and operations, as of Gold, Silver, Copper, Iron, Tin, Lead, Mercurie, and the reſt of Minerals.

III.

In the third part is declared in manifeſt, and literal expreſſions without any defect and obſcuritie, the Univerſal of this whole world, how all Philoſophers before me, with me, and after me, have made that most ancient great ſtone, whereby health and riches were obtained, of the poſſibility, how, and of what it may be done, together with a perfect Declaration of my XII. Keyes, with the names of our matter.

IV.

In the fourth part I deſcribe all the particulars of Metals, which the one is endued with, before the other, out of which may be had perfect health, and an advantage unto the getting of great riches, with all the Manuals in general and particular, belonging thereunto: this fourth part I have intituled, the Manuals of Baſilius Valentinus, wherein is ſhewed how all Metals, and Minerals, fitting thereunto, may be brought to their higheſt preparation.

V.

In the fifth part I have annexed the tranſcendent, moſt dear wonderfull Medicine of all Metals and Minerals, and of other things, which God Almighty had ordained, and graciouſly granted for men, who in the Valley of miſerie are ſubject to ſickneſſes and povertie, that they may have a remedie to help themſelves againſt both.

God the Father, of mercie and ſalvation, who liveth from eternitie to eternitie, being above all the Creatures, grant grace and bleſſing to this my purpoſe, that I may write ſo, that every one may underſtand, and Gods infinite, mercie and that it together with his gracious goodneſs, redemption may ſeem known, acknowledged, and continually meditated upon, and every one may call on the Great Creator day and night; granting to them fervent hearts ſo to direct all their thoughts, that they may make no otherwiſe of this noble Creature of God and tranſcendent great myſtery of Nature, together with the Automie thereof, but onely to the great honour of God, and the good of all good Children. The ſame grant this Father Son and Holy Ghost in his mercy. Amen.

TABLE.

The Contents of the firſt part of the book.

• THe firſt Chapter treateth of the aetherial liquor of Metals. pag. 1.
• The 2. Chap. treateth of the ſeed of Metals pag. 4
• The 3. Chap. Of Metalline nutriment pag. 6
• 4. Of the ſhop, or officine of Metals pag. 9
• 5. Of the egreſſion and ingreſſion of Metals pag. 11
• 6. Of the diſſolution and reduction of Metals pag. 14
• 7. Of the aſcenſion and deſcenſion of Metals pag. 16
• 8. Of the reſpiring Metal, or quick Oar pag. 18
• 9. Of the expiring, or dying Metal. pag. 21
• 10. Of pure and fine Metal pag. 22
• 11. Of the impure Metal pag. 25
• 12. Of the perfect Metal pag. 27
• 13. Of the imperfect Metal pag. 30
• 14. Of the Soap Metal pag. 32
• 15. Of the inhalation, or inbreathing pag. 34
• 16. Of the exhalation and outbreathings pag. 36
• 17 Of coruſcation, adhalation, or glittering pag. 38
• 18. Of folium and ſpolium, ſhimmer and glower pag. 39
• 19. Of the fuliginous, vapours and aſhes pag. 40
• 20. Of the Metalline water, or lie pag. 42
• 21. Of the ſeed, and of the hull of the ſeed pag. 44
• 22. Of the ſhining, or fire rod pag. 45
• 23. Of the glowing rod. pag. 47
• 24. Of the leaping rod pag. 48
• 25. Of the furcilla, or ſtriking rod pag. 50
• 26. Of the trembling rod pag. 52
• 27. Of the falling, or neather rod pag. 53
• 28. Of the ſuperior rod pag. 55
• 29. Of reſting vapours, or ſediments pag. 57
• 30. Of the weather ſalt pag. 58
• 31. Of the ſtone ſalt pag. 59
• 32. Of the Subterranean Pools pag. 60
• 33. Of the Metalline Gold, or of the Metalline bed pag. 61
• Chap. 34. Of Metalline ſtreams pag. 62
• 35. Of Chalk, or ſtone Meal pag. 63
• 36. Of the blaſt pag. 64
• 37. Of the brittle ſtuff pag. 65
• 38. Of the blank fire pag. 66
• 39. Of the Mine glue pag. 67
• 40. Of corroding ſtuff to eat ſtones thorow pag. 68
• 41. Of having materials uſed for a ſledd, or dray pag. 70
• 42. Of the froſt in the Mine-works pag. 71
• 43. Of the flaming fire pag. 72
• 44. Of the roaſting fire pag. 72
• 45. Of the corroding fire pag. 73
• 46. Of the glowing fire pag. 74
• 47. Of the Lamp fire pag. 74
• 48. Of the cold fire pag. 75
• 49. Of the warm fire. pag. 76

The Contents of the ſecond part.

• 1. Chap. OF Mines and Clifts, what the middle works of Oars are pag. 81
• 2. Of the general operations of ſeveral Metals. pag. 82
• 3. Of ſtones, rocks, flints of Gold, & their ſtriking courſes pag. 84
• 4. Of the oar of ſilver, and its running, or ſtriking paſſages pag. 86
• 5. Of Copper oar, its ſtone, and ſtriking paſſage pag. 88
• 6. Of Iron oar, its ſtoks, floats, fallings and ſtriking paſſages pag. 92
• 7. Of Lead oar, its Mine and ſtriking paſſage pag. 95
• 8. Of Tin oar, its ſtoks, floats, fallings & ſtriking paſſage pag. 98
• 9. Of Mercurial oar, and its paſſages pag. 100
• 10. Of Wiſmuth, Antimony, Sulphur, Salt, Salpeter and Talk pag. 101
• 11. Of a compariſon between Gods word & the Minerals pag. 102
• 12. How Jewels are wrought, the bleſſings God beſtows on Miners pag. 107
• 13. Of the eſſence of Gold pag. 108

The Contents of the third part, being a Declaration of the XII. Keyes.

• The firſt is declared pag. 119
• The ſecond Key declared pag. 120
• The third Key declared pag. 122
• The reſt are declared according to the courſe going on in that part pag. 125

The Contents of the fourth part, concerning the particulars made of the 7. Metals, how they may be prepared with profit.

• Firſt of the Sulphur of Sol, whereby Lune is ting'd into Gold pag. 151
• The particular of Lune, of the extraction of its Sulphur and Salt pag. 158
• Of the particular of Mars, how its Sulphur and Salt is extracted pag. 161
• Of the particular of Venus, how its Sulphur and Salt is extracted pag. 161
• Of the particular of Saturn, how its Sulphur and Salt is extracted pag. 163
• Of the particular of Jupiter, how its Sulphur and Salt is extracted pag. 169
• Of the particular of Mercury, of its Sulphur and Salt pag. 170
• Of the Oyl made of Mercury, and its Salt pag. 171
• Of the particular of Antimony, its Sulphur and Salt pag. 172
• A ſhort way to make Antimonial Sulphur and Salt pag. 173

The XII. Keyes follow next. The Contents of that book are inſerted at the beginning of it.

Next to this is the repetition of the former writings, with an Elucidation of them, touching the Philoſophers ſtone, and a true information annexed, concerning the preparations of Mercurie, Antimonie, Vitriol water, common Sulphur, unſlak'd Lime, Arſenic, Salpeter, Tartar, Vinegar, and Wine.

The next are the concluſion and experiments.

• THe firſt Section treats of Sulphur, and the ferment of Philoſophers pag. 1.
• 2. Section. Of the Philoſophers Vitriol. pag. 2
• 3. Section. Of the Philoſophers Magnet. pag. 3
• An allegorical expreſſion betwixt the holy Trinity, and the Philoſophers ſtone pag. 5
• A treatiſe of Sulphur pag. 6
• Of Sulphur of Jupiter pag. 7
• Of the Sulphur of Mars and Venus. pag. 8
• Of the Sulphur of Sol pag. 8
• Of the Sulphur of Mercury pag. 9
• Of the Sulphur of Lune pag. 10
• Of Antimonial Vitriol pag. 10
• Of the Sulphur of Vitriol pag. 11
• Of common Sulphur pag. 11
• Of Vitriols, firſt of the Vitriol of Sol and Lune pag. 12
• Of Vitriol of Saturn and Jupiter pag. 13
• Of Vitriol of Mars pag. 13
• Of Vitriol of Venus pag. 13
• Of Vitriol of Mercury pag. 14
• Of common Vitriol pag. 15
• Of the vulgar Magnet pag. 16
• A Philoſophick work upon Vitriol pag. 17
• To bring quick Mercury to a Lunar fixation: pag. 21

The contents of the fifth and last part.

• TReateth of the great Medicinal vertue of the Metalline and Mineral Salt pag. 1.
• A deſcription of the fine Tartar pag. 6.
• Of the Salt of Tartar. pag. 7.

THE FIRST BOOK,

Wherein are ſhewed MINE-WORKS, from whence they have their Exiſtence, Natures and Properties: divided into the enſuing Chapters.

CHAP. I. [•]f the Aetherial liquor of Metals, or of the metal Ferch.

GOd hath created things under ground as well as the things above ground: By the things under ground, I underſtand Metalls, Minerals, and into whom there is implanted alſo a fertiltie to their ſeed, without which the ſeed could neither grow nor in[•]aſe. Seed which is barren, hath not that fertiltie: by [•]ich it is collected, that there is ſome diſtinctneſſe betwixt ſeed and fertility, If we will enquire narrowly wha[•] fertility is, the beſt and ſureſt way is, to conſider life an[•] death of creatures, how they hold together; for death i[•] barren, but a living life is fertil, becauſe it ſtirreth and moveth.

It is ſeen by all the works that are undertaken about metals, that there is nothing ſo volatile as metal is, and ſo nothing ſtirs and moveth more ſubtilly than it; but this ſtiring and moving I will call here the Ferch of metals, by reaſon of its continual proceeding, and unceſſant moving and becauſe the ſame is not viſible in metals, and doth i[•] in a twofold way, therefore I will let the old word ſtand and call its ſtirring a Lubricum, and its Ferch a Volatile; fo[•] with the vertue and power of both theſe, it performeth a[•] that, what it needs for the perfection, puritie and fixation o[•] its work.

Seeing Ferch is a perpetual living and forthgoing thing one might admire and ſay, of what condition is metal the[•] which we behold with our eyes, and feele with our hands which being thus hard and coagulated, whether the ſame b[•] alive or dead; and whether the life or Ferch in meta[•] may be deſtroyed, (which is impoſſible) what is the cond[•]tion of it, or how comes i[•] ſo to paſſe? I anſwer, that a metal may be alive when it reſteth, as well as when it groweth or ſtirreth; and here a diſtinction muſt be made again betwixt the death of metals, and their reſt and quietneſſe[•] For death toucheth only the bodies; when they periſh; b[•] the life it ſelf, or Ferch cannot periſh or ceaſe: therefore [〈◊〉] a metalline body be extant, then is it at hand viſibly tw[•] manner of wayes. The one is in liquido, and is diſcerne[•] in its moving too and fro, and if it be forced by a ſtrang[•] dangerous heat; then it turns to a volatility, and flyeth away. The other way is, when it is at hand in coagulat[•] wherein it reſteth ſo long, till it be reduced into its liqu[•]dum, and that is done in a twofold way, and laſteth ſo lon[•] as the body laſteth, but as ſoone as the body is deſtroye[•] or gone, and is come or entred into a more, either noble[•] ignoble body, men its Ferch or life is gone alſo: therefore if you will reſerve and keep a body, then take good notice of i[•]s Ferch or life; for if you once ſtir it, and hunt it indiſcreetly, you do it with the loſſe o[•] d[•]minu[•]ion of the body, wherein it is, for that life never goeth away empty, but ſtill carrieth along one life or Ferch after the other, carrying it away ſo long, that at the laſt it leaveth none. But what the condition is of the moving and quietneſſe of that life, and how Nature bringeth it to a reſt, muſt be exactly conſidered. For an accurate knowledge demonſtrateth, that there is a diff[•]rence betwixt the life of the ſeed and of the body; for deale with the ſeed which way you will, you cannot bring it to a volatilitie, becauſe it is againſt its kind; and ſo the body alſo is of the ſame condition; but the Ferch alone may be brought to it. For if you provide food for the Ferch, then you ſtrengthen its whole work, even as a mother doth her child, which ſhe feedeth and cheriſheth well, and bringeth the ſame the better to its reſt; ſo [•]s it alſo with the Ferch. Therefore all ſuch which gaze and view only the ſeed and body, and know not the fundamentals about the Ferch, loſe the body, becauſe they ob[•]erve not Natures progreſſe and proceedings, putting the [•]art before the horſe, or the formoſt they put hindmoſt. This reſt and ſleep of the Ferch ſerveth for that uſe, becauſe [•]t preſerveth the body from deſtruction, or co[••]umption be[•]ng once come into its perfection. For as long as it awaketh, ſo long it conſumeth, but when it is at reſt, then it [•]andeth cloſe in a laſtingneſſe, and when it hath nothing [•]o feed upon, then it corrodeth and ſeizeth on its own bo[•]ie, conſuming it quite, at laſt it ſtirreth [•]nd moveth to a[•]other place. Hence is it that treaſures, or pag[•]ment, which [•]e buryed, awaken at laſt, conſume their own bodyes, re[•]cing them to duſt, ſo that nothing of them remaines but ther a meere ſtone or flux, as in many places is to bee [•]n.

CHAP. II. Of the ſeed of Metals.

ALl thoſe Authors which have written about the metaline ſeed, agree in that, when they ſay ſulphur is the maſculine ſeed of metals, and Mercurie is the foeminine ſeed; which ſaying muſt be taken in its genuine ſenſe; for common Sulphur and common Mercury are not meant thereby. For the viſible Mercury of Metals is a body it ſelf out of bodies, and ſo it cannot be a ſeed: and being cold, its coldneſſe per ſe cannot be a ſeed, and the Sulphur of metals being a food, how can it be a ſeed? Yea, a ſeed conſummeth ſulphur, how can one ſeed deſtroy the other? if ſo, what body ſhould it produce? It is therefore an error, if that ſhould be taken in the common ſenſe: if the Mercurie of bodies is in a work, and hath taken food, then all the ſex Mercuries protrude one body, as the one of the ſex is in its predominancy, ſo the body riſeth.

Seeing there are ſeven of theſe Mercuries, it happeneth, that when the ſeed of Mars and Venus hath the predominancie, they produce a maſculine body of Sol, but if the ſeed of Saturne and Jupiter doth predominate, then is produced a ſoeminine body, which is called Lune; Mercury is an aſſiſtant on both ſides.

The ſame happeneth unto other bodies: but theſe are alwayes and in every and each work together; for they are indiviſible, as it is meet alſo, what manner of body could be produced elſe? For Nature hath perfect bodyes, though in themſelves they muſt be diſſolved again, yet are they perfect for, & in their time. For what manner of ſeed could that be, if it ſhould be defective in any of its branches?

Therefore every body hath its perfect ſeed, hence the traſmutation hath its ground in the aſcention and deſcenti[••] of metals, which otherwiſe could not be, if they were not homogeneal in their ſeed. For if any man ſaith, that ſilver is not gold, clowns beleeve that alſo, becauſe they have not fundamental knowledge of the ſeed, how it is to go out of one body into the other, or elſe it wants its fertilitie, neither can it be naturally without a body, wherein it reſte[•]h. There belong ſeven diſtinct parts to an unformal body of metals, to bring it by nouriſhment into a forme, viz. 1. An earth. 2. A ſtone. 3. An earthaſh. 4. Earthly ſtreams. 5. glaſſe or ſubterraneal metal. 6. The ſubterranean tincture. 7. The ſubterranean fuligo or ſeed, (fume) All theſe are the materials of the body; and as earth is mans matter, out of which God made him, unto which he muſt returne again: ſo all other bodyes alſo at laſt return to earth, that Myner which is judicious and knowing herein, him I judge to deſerve the name of a Miner. For there are but few of them which are rightly informed herein, or hath any fundamental knowledge of it, though they are dayly imployed about it: though ſome might ſay, they could not but bee knowing in their profeſſion, yet it is not ſo really; if ſo, what right uſe can they make of them? They put wrong names upon them, are ignorant of their utility, and this is the reaſon why they many times run them waſte upon heaps, where after ſome time they turne to goodneſſe, and the longer they lye there, the better they are: this inſtruction deſerves no hatred, but rather a gratefull aknowledgment.

Why ſhould Philoſophers be beleeved to know any [•]hing? But where is it written, that men ſhould ſeeke & find mercury of the body in a ſubterranean fume, ſtone, glaſſe, [•]ut in their books? Where are learned artificial finings in[•]liginations, incinerations, nutritions but from them? The [•]ed of metals as it is perfect, ſo is its Ferch, or life inviſible. Where do thoſe men ſtay, which will work according to na[•]re, and know none of theſe, neither do they know where [〈◊〉] get it: yet fall upon Artiſts, exclaiming upon them to be [•]ſe, & all ſuch as are imployed in their ways: but we ſee and hear how ignorance runs on. It is impoſſible to get a body without ſeed, it were as much as to ſay, a ſeed is without fertility. Therefore peruſe it exactly in its diſſolution, the reduction of it will afford its body: work cheerfully.

But it is none of the meaneſt work, as ſome of the moſt antient Philoſophers have ſaid, which called it a double work: for thus they ſay, the metal muſt firſt paſſe through the M[•]lters hand, afterward it muſt come into the hands of the Alchymiſt, if ſo be the ſeed ſhall be known in the artificial work: they meane or in imate by this ſaying thus much, that there is a twofold diſſolution, the one is, when the expert Melter brings the frangible body ex naturali conductione into a malleableneſſe, whereby its impurity is gotten off. Then comes the Alchymiſt, reduceth the body into cinders, calxes, glaſſes, colours, fumes ſubterranean, in which the ſeed of metals reſteth, and the Ferch or life is found fertile in the body, and is reducible into a ſpiritual water or prima materia, according as the quality and propertie of the metall is, and is divided artificially into its natural principles, according to the proceſſe of the Chymick art, of which more in another place ſhall be ſpoken, when I ſhall treat of the Minerals.

CHAP. III. Of the Metalline Nutriment.

ALthough it belongeth not to this place, how mineralia foſſilia are made under ground, however I will give a hint of it, how nature maketh them out of ſubterranean moiſt liquors and Myne-creſcencies, which afterward ſerve to be a food to metals; not ſuch liquors which are decocted above ground; therefore if you ſhould adde here above ground, decocted ones to metals, undiſſolved in thei[•] corporeal form, your work would be in vain: and where there are ſuch mineralia foſſilia there are Myne-works alſo if not with it, yet are they not farre off, as is ſeen in many Mynes. As in Hungarie are digged the faireſt and beſt ſulphur-alloms and Mineral or Myne Victriol. And about Harcynta are digged ſalt Victriol. About Goſlar, Mansfeld, Zellerfeld, and at Etſhland in Helvetia is digged Mine-ſalt, and at Hall there is great ſtore of it, where there is found alſo very curious ſulphur. But you muſt note, that theſe minerals are not uſed thus groſsly, but are prepared firſt, which is a curious work to bring a mineral thus high by ſubliming into flores, which are halfe metalline, eſpecially if made with metal, the metal being reduced into a mineral, from that the flowers are made: thus you ſee natures forwardneſſe, and how ſhe is reducible to her firſt water, ſulphur and ſalt. Many make theſe flowers without metal, which are not ſo good though, as the former way. For an oleum made of vitriol or copper, and is diſtilled, is more eff[•]ctual, yea a thouſand times more pretious in its operation, than that is, which is made of common vitriol, whom nature hath not yet exalted. Its true the Hungarian Vitriol in its efficacie [•]nd vertue is found wonderfull and ſufficient enough, becauſe Nature hath graduated it to a greater ſiccitie, and [•]rought it to a ripeneſſe more than others were, and is more [•]xcellent than the reſt. By this preparation they can make [•]ſe of the minerals, ſtrengthen and encreaſe their pleaſure [•]hereby. If any thing is to be made, meet for metalls, then it [•]uſt be done out of metals, with metals, and through or by [•]etals, which is the real & only manual whereby may be hit [•]he hardneſs of the mineral flowers, always take from them, [〈◊〉] adde nothing to them; this is the Art, which asketh great [•]ondering & deep meditation. Thus you muſt learn to go to [•]ork, for theſe flowers are found often cloſely compacted, [•]hich Myners very ſeldome know, eſpecially in Hungarie [•]nd Wallachia, they are as faire as ever any red glowing oar [•]ay be, they are of a cryſtaline tranſparent redneſſe, are [•]od gold and ſilver according as they are ting'd, this is a rare knowledge, an art worthy the beſt conſideration, which is to make glaſſe of a hardneſſe, from thence it is, that the ſubterranean glaſſes make up the metall, thereby they come to their forme.

The preparation of theſe flowers have their great utility in phyſical wayes, if their excrements be taken from them, and their ordours: theſe excrements are the feces of minerals, are nought for metals, ſtirring up evil ſediments, which bring damage unto metals; a twofold evil comes from the miſtaking of mineralls: for decocted ones are a dangerous poiſon, and corroſive unto metals, as we ſee above ground, when aquafortis is made of them, which corrodeth, teareth, divideth and parteth metals, and the other which are faire to look on, ſticking unto metals, and their worſt poiſon, for as ſoone as theſe approach, they kindle and cauſe the dangerous ſediments, all availeth nothing unto them, though they have and keep their form. As an infected man hath ſtill the form and face of a man, though hee bee infected, and infecteth others alſo, and in caſe it turne all to one metal, yet it is but an empty one, and nothing in it. This is a very neceſſary obſervation for Miners and Laborators; for if they regard it not, they obſtruct not only their work, but endanger themſelves alſo; becauſe the metal is not only turned into a volatilitie, if any feces or excrements be added thereunto, and that alſo which ſtayeth, comes to be unmalleable, and ſuffers continually diminution, as long as it is under the hammer. Thoſe that works them, have cauſe to look to it, if they fall on them with any fire, their reward ſurely is ſome mine diſeaſe, which experimentally is known how their poiſon doth ſtick and hang on the top of the furnace and in their cheſts, turning to arſenick and ſuch poiſonous fumes and ſeeds, and do hurt every way, as wofull experience evidenceth.

CHAP. IV. Of the metaline ſhop, Officina metalorum.

ALl natural works have their ſpecial convenient places in which they work; where there is any ſuch place or ſhop, in which ſome glorious and precious thing is made, and ſometimes though the inſtrument be very horrid and monſtrous, and its matter unknowne, yet they are extant in that officine.

Firſt touching the glory and praiſe of this officine, it is likned to a Church, in which the ſeed and the Ferch are married to the body, therein they eate, reſt, and work, thither they carry all faire and pleaſant materials under ground wherewith they are clad, and they have another kind of fire, water, aire, and earth, for the things that are accompliſhed and perfected therein, the ſame can hardly be parted again, no not with the help of the neather aire, if ſo be, that it muſt be parted aſunder, then ſee and make tryal of it on the mercurie of metalls.

Again, the things made ſo hard, and fixt cannot be parted, as may be ſeen by gold, how firm and fixt is it in the fire? the cauſe whereof is the ſubterranean heat and cold which it imparteth unto metals, and makes them firm thereby, for it is a ſtony firmament of the earth, and giving to metals their ſtony power, it groweth hollow and ſpongie, full of pores, which at laſt are fill'd up with metals, even as Bees do fill their hives with hony, and in the end [〈◊〉] parts and is carryed away in the ſlick or (Scobes.) For the Earth-ſtone is not conſumed under ground, becauſe it is a ſediment not ſuffering any thing to come in or out. Hence [•]s that difference betwixt the Earth-ſtone and the terreſtial-firmamental ſtone, which is one of the mineral-works. Let no man gainſay that a ſtone ſhould have together both heat and cold at once, to afford the one now, and then to hide the other, for when it worketh the higheſt metals, it hideth its heat, and when it worketh upon inferior metals, then it hideth its coldneſſe, and ſo it helpeth every way, this is its tract and inſtrument, heat and cold of the ſubterranean fir[•] ſtone.

The moderne Chimiſts which are ignorants, not knowing Nature aright, and do not take notice of her wayes, uſe ſtrange inſtruments, and then they make or cauſe to be made all manner of veſſels, according as every one of them hath a fancy to, but in natures wayes they know little, ſhee regardeth not the variety of formes, and inſtead of the[•]e, ſhe takes a fit and laſting inſtrument, which holdeth in the work, and every form followes or accompanies the ſeeds precedencie. The folly and ignorance of workmen is aggravated in that, becauſe they deſpiſe the knowledge of minerals.

The inſtrument ſhe uſeth hereunto I ſhould make mention of it here, but wave it at this time, and will do it in another place, where you may ſeek for, and take notice of it. Thoſe which think themſelves to be the wiſeſt doe ſay, that it is a vanitie to obſerve mathematically the ſtars above, and to order any work after ſeaſo[•]able dayes and houres, it is ſomething ſaid, but not ſo well grounded. But this is moſt certaine, that if you work according to common courſe, otherwiſe than we do, following onely your own fancies, then is you[•] labour in vaine. There is a difference to be made betwixt the upper ſtars, and the metallin ſtars, which ſhine and have their influence into the bodies. Touching the ſtars above, they in their light and motion have a ſingular in[••]uence; and the ſtars below have their influence alſo upon their metals, thus each heaven hath its peculiar courſe and inſtrument, where the ſtars ſituation may be apprehended. An opacum corpus ſtellatum compact aſtrall bodie, differs in its condition from a corpus lucidum, if you intend to learn here ſomething, then you muſt be induſtrious and grudge no paines, it would require a huge volume, if I ſhould deſcribe particularly the whole [•]ircumference of ſubterranean Mine-works: it would not [•]uffice to nominate the things only, but muſt demonſtrate alſo, that all that, which I attribute to them, to be true, I ſay [〈◊〉] would aſke a great deale of writing, to diſpoſe the brains of miſconceited men to a belief: what ſhould I ſay of ſuch materials, on whom I could not impoſe fitting names, though I k[•]ew them, for who is that man which hath done learning [〈◊〉] our Schoole? Here I muſt needs ſpeak as belonging properly to this place, that no volume in this world can be written, in which could be ſet down all and every particular manual, as Laborators ſometimes might aſke; therefore an Artiſt having given him ſome hints of things, muſt endeavour to order his work, and manage the ſame ju[•]iciouſly, muſt put his hands to the work, and get knowledge by his own practice. I direct ſuch men in their work to Natures proceſs under ground, let them ſearch there, and take an honeſt Myner along to ſhew him her inſtruments, and matters (for prating, lying and ignorance availeth here nothing.) Every one wiſheth [•]o get riches, but the means [•]or the getting of them are not reſpondent: if I were the beſt [•]imner, & could ſet forth in colours the form of any inſtrument, then men would underſtand it; it would help in this caſe, they would ſee it, and feele it with their hands, and undertake the work, if all were ſet down. I know what, & how much ought to be put in a book, I put things fitting in, and did it faithfully.

CHAP, V. Of Egreſſion and Ingreſſion of Metals.

THe work of metals evidenceth a perpetual going in, and coming out; for hereby the Egreſſion is underſtood not only the Egreſſion of the whole work, that in ſome place a whole metaline tract comes into decay, when it wants food to be nouriſhed any further, & hath devoured all its bodies, but alſo a partial egreſſion; for ſtill the one ſeeketh he other, and follows at the heel. This we ſee by the mercury of metals, being poured forth, it is ſcattered into thouſands of little quick corns, all of them return to their body; in the ſame condition is volatile & Lubricum; & the Ferch alſo goeth forth in ſmall bits, at laſt it joyneth in a body ſomewhere, even as Bees met together: it receiveth no more than it hath need, the overplus ſwarmeth to another Myne-officine, which parting and diſtributing, affords many and ſeveral Mine-works, according to the diſpoſition of the officine and nouriſhment, and according as it is infringed in its work in the egreſſion; the Ferch and the ſeed go on in their volatilitie, & if they had wings, that Volatile is ſo thin, that it can hardly be diſcerned, yet is it foliated like a heap of atoms; thus ſubtilly it flyeth away, & the Ferch muſt ſtill have its ſeed, the ſeed its body, and that its thin atoms. My meaning is not, that its egreſſion is from or out of the earth into the ayre, to fly about there and then to come into ground again; which is not ſo, nor can it be, becauſe its natural work is not in the ayre, unleſſe men bring it forth purpoſely, then is it of another condition; of that egreſſion I do not ſpeak here, becauſe it is done by day; but this goeth through the earth. Which ſtands in the furnace, not apprehenſive or viſible to us, and runs through clefts and paſſages; For if the earth giveth way to the ingreſſion and egreſſion, even as the water doth to fiſhes, and the ayre to birds, as long as metals come to their ſtone-firmament, which ſtone firmamet differs from the earth-firmament, when it meets with that, it goeth about, looking out for another paſſage, like as water that floweth about a ſtone and not through it, yet it ſtayeth in its own ſtone, and receiveth ſtrength of it, & turnes there to a body: and as it goeth in its egreſſion from one metaline firmament or ſtone-firmament to another, if thorow eaten or ſoaked, be it at what diſtance it will, and atracteth the Lubicrum, even as a bird draws its feet up to its body in its flight; for if they touch any where, then they looſe ſomewhat of the body, and the Lubricum in its ingreſſion ſuffers it to come again to a ſtrength of operation: for when both are joyned, then the metal increaſeth, and attracteth its food in a wonderfull way and nouriſheth it ſelfe; and it is to be admired, that in this ingreſſion, when that Lubricum comes more and more to its officine, how it increaſeth and ſtrengtheneth it ſelfe ſo long, that at laſt the work is made firme in the officine. This ſtrengthening can not be learned to be any other, than the metaline mercurie doth make it, for in the firſt place it turns it there into a liquidum, where afterward it receiveth all, doth coagulate and congele, according as the bodyes are either maſculine or foeminine, at laſt it is brought to a ſolid fixed body of Sol. This ingreſſion makes that ſubterranean place [•]oble and fruitfull, and is ſingular, when it hath an aſcending oar in work, that ayre is very wholſome, and if the ayre above with melting be not infected with arſenick fumes, then it affords a ſaluber ayre to dwell in.

This is a manuduction unto the whole after-work, how the ſame ought to be proceeded in, that the ore may ſtand and not awaken, but turne to its ſtreame, and ſtill abide in its bodies companie, it is loath to make an egreſſion, if once it made a true ingreſſion, and ſetled it ſelfe to the work; for it reſteth not in its place, neither doth it reſt in its whole [•]ract, but worketh continually, and is well ſeen, what its fixing or flight is, and where it ſetteth to a fluid body, or earth-ſalt, which it ſtirres and rouleth ſo long, yea, it panteth and moveth in it ſo longe, till it gets a liquid body, then turns it to a terrene body, & is ſtill brought on to a further height and hardneſſe: and that is the right coagulating, congealing liquidating and fixing of mercurie; which if [•]one accordingly, then it affords ſomething.

CHAP. VI. Of the diſſolution and reduction of metals.

It is apparent, that natural heat is the cauſe of the fluidneſs of metals diſſolution, becauſe the ſeed of metals in it ſelfe is very hot, and the fluide matter of metals is ho[•] alſo, as being oliginous, and its heat increaſeth, when i[•] comes to its officine, or ſhop, becauſe that alſo being ho[•] encreaſeth the heat the more, hence it is why it is hot i[•] the work, and hath need of it, for at firſt it would bring no more into its body, unleſſe it were ſoluble and ſoft, i[•] bringeth nothing into it, unleſſe it be paſſed through theſe three heats, and fixed by them: then examine it, and adde another fluid thing to it, which did not paſſe through the three heats: ſee whether the metal will receive it, or no[•] Secondly they muſt be diſſolved that they may be cleanſed; the condition of liquid things is to produce to the outſide things fitting the work it hath in hand. This ſolution i[•] diſtinct from other artificial diſſolutions, where the body is only melted, as by the Melter when he ſeperateth the excrements from it; for n[•]aure doth not melt the earth as men do, bu[•] as corne groweth above ground, ſo ſhe leaveth corne and huſks together; there is a great difference betwixt our melting and the diſſolving of Nature; if we could obſerve that diſtinction in our diſſolutions and meltings, we ſhould not be at ſo great loſſes and dammages as we are: I muſt needs mention about aurum potabile, how men do buſie themſelves about it, as many heads, as many wayes they chuſe to the making of it. Some take that wh[•]ch is not yet ſeparated from the metal containing yet the cinders o[•] excrements, or worſe things. They take corroſive waters, acetum aquavitae, and the like; pray tell me, what doth Nature take, when ſhe is about the diſſolving of a congealed water? She takes none of theſe things, only maketh uſe of [•]heat. You muſt do [•]he [••]k[•], if you will take a metalline [•]ody, which Nature hath perfected, and through melting [•]nd fining is come to us, if you will diſſolve and reduce it [〈◊〉] its firſt matter, then rou[•]e the Ferch, thus you may make [•]y metalline body potable, being made pure and ſuper[•]e, then its excrements are gone, made not with additi[•]nals of corroſive things: the fluxing of ſuch matters rather [•]ake the metals harder: if a body ſhall be fixed, we fix [〈◊〉] from whithout, which Nature doth not, for ſhe fixeth the [•]ed, then the flour ſetteth and turns to ſuch a fixation, [•]hat the diſſolving above ground cannot maſter it. A wa[•]er, which congealeth, hath at firſt a little cruſt, going on [〈◊〉] it till it be quite congealed, but here it congealeth from [•]ithin to the outſide, hence you may gueſſe at that glori[•]us foundation of projection, on mercurie of the body, ma[•]ing a natural ſtratum ſuper ſtratum, thus are the metals [•]yned, according to which the artificial work is ordered: [•]e have a hint given how mercurie of metalls is clipt and [•]layed, and its lubicrum is catched. Conceive not of this [•]xation, to be as when iron is hardened to ſteele, and then [•]duced to a ſoftneſſe as Tin is of; this is called only a [•]oſe hardneſſe, which keeps the body in a malleableneſſe, [••]d keeps it ſo cloſe together, that the fire above ground [•]nnot hurt it, all hardneſſe above ground may be mollified [〈◊〉] fire, but not the other; becauſe it holdeth all fiery tryals: [•]herefore as the hardneſſe made above ground hardneth [•]odies in the water, ſo on the other ſide, the water, which [〈◊〉] in metalline bodyes muſt be taken out, then it congea[•]th. The ſubterranean ayre hardneth the earth, earth [•]emaineth earth, and turns not to ſtone, and the ſame [•]eeps the water from running together, or congealing: [•]eeping it from turning to pearls and pretious ſtones, and [•]ch may be made of that water. To get the internal fire [•]ut of metals, though it be moſt high ſkill, however it is [•]aſeable, and found in its place, where I write of the like, [〈◊〉] a more ample manner. I give a hint of it in this places, as Myners ought to do, of whoſe expreſſions I borrow now: The reſt which wholly extracteth this fire, whic[•] lyeth betwixt the project, leaving nothing behind, that i[•] where the Lubricum and Volatile is together, leaveth it produceth it, and excerneth it. The Mansfieldian ſlat[•] makes it appeare, that its Volatile is gone, and its Lubricum alſo, where its impurity is yet betwixt the project, an[•] is not a faire pure work, but a compound one.

CHAP. VII. Of the aſcenſion and deſcenſion of metals.

THis new kind or manner of ſpeaking and writing of metals is cauſed by experience, for the firſt perpetua[•] ingreſſion of the Ferch encreaſeth and ſtrengtheneth at firſ[•] in the officina and Matrix, the Mercurie of bodies, bringin[•] it on to its perfect and full ſtrength; being made wholly effectual and potent, then it begins by degrees to cloth i[•] ſelfe with a body, at firſt he attracteth and receiveth th[•] meaneſt, which he puts off again in the firſt place, which i[•] done the eaſier; for no body amongſt them all is ſoone[•] put off. For the body of Saturne is ſo thin, that it appeareth to the eye like as a faire body doth through lawn[•] or tiffenie; its ſpirituality appeareth through its body; it[•] ſpiritual body is the metal of Mercurie, or as I ſhould rather call it, its proper, near, and ſpecial bodye, which work giveth a manuduction unto many other faire works; for i[•] maketh a garment for Saturne out of the ſubtileſt earth, after he riſeth higher, puts a harder and better garment o[•] him, which is not ſo eaſily put off as that of Saturne, or a[•] leaſt not with ſo ſmall a work, which is cauſed by the work of the Mercurie of bodies. For the Mercurie of bodies by reaſon of its fluidneſſe is the hotteſt, as he maketh it appea[•] in Saturns aſcenſion, putting a cinereal body on him ou[•] of earth, hence is it why Saturn is ſo full of cinders incli[•]ing to a britleneſs of aſhes, and begins to ſound by reaſon [•]f the metal, though it be not very firm, however yet it [〈◊〉] at the next place for incorporation: its ſound is more [•]eaf, is further off from iron, and nearer unto mercury by [•]eaſon of heat. Obſerve now at the aſcending of this metal, [〈◊〉] lyeth near the aſhes, cleanſed by the Saturnal water, but [•]bove ground it turns not to be glaſs out of the aſhes, out [•]f ſalt or earth-water, or Saturnal-water, or out of ſand [•]r ſtone. But what is that pure ſubterranean Earth-glaſs, [•]hich if it ſoundeth breaketh not: it is a matter which Na[•]ure thruſteth upon a heap together, which if you touch, [〈◊〉] ſoundeth, and is very clear, of a great compactneſs, [•]d very firm, in this work it doth mingle with aſhes and [•]lt water, and turns to a glaſs of earth, or to a dark glaſſey [•]rm iron. Nay tell me, if a metal or Earth-colour, yea a [•]ood ſound metal be diſſolved to a colour, and is brought [•]to a glaſs, doth it not look of a copper-colour? yes truly. [•]herefore iron may ſoon be turned into another thing, [•]hich is done naturally, where ſuch metalline iron colour reduced in Hungaria into a Lixivium, and is turned into very good copper, however it retaineth the glaſſineſs, [•]ough the colour hath exicated it ſomewhat through the [•]ercurie of bodies: for the liquidneſs it hath ſtill, and is obilitated further to a malleableneſſe and fixation, there[•]re take notice of this tincturing matter, which you finde [•]epared by this body in this afficina, it reduceth the iron [〈◊〉] copper with abundance of lucre.

Put theſe colours away and behold, how the mercury of [•]odies is paſſed through many white bodies, and hath ſtill fair white fuligo, and that very fixed, how finely is it clad it, and maketh a fair and pure body of Luna, into which [〈◊〉] clads himſelf ſo ſtrongly that it can not be taken from [•]ence by burning, becauſe it paſſed ſeven times thorough [•]e greateſt ſubterranean heat, which deſtroyeth corrupti[•]e bodies, unleſs they be cloſely and compactedly incor[•]rated to the mercury of bodies; nothing goeth beyond that fire, neither of the upper, ne[•]her, or middle-fires. Therefore behold how neatly Nature worke[•]h and riſeth calcining the whole body of Luna, which [•]alx is no hin[•] elſe but the body of Sol, its tinctu[•]e and tinging quality i[•] taketh from the perfection and depth, which is in the fire and can afford it, that colour muſt keep ſo long till i[•] deſcendeth again: there is nothing which can maſter [••]i[•] fire; the deſcending may ſoon be perceived by this aſc[•]nding, and the difference of it is this, at the aſcending i[•] geteth the tincture firſt, before it gets the body, but here i[•] looſeth it ſooner: and this is the reaſon why deſcending oares are more perf[•]ct, then the aſcending ones.

CHAP, VIII. Of reſpiring Metall, or of Quick oar.

BEcauſe with and by Myne-works an obſtruction [〈◊〉] made upon Nature, which is the cauſe that ſeveral m[•]tals are gotten, and diſtinctions put on them, that damage and loſſes might be the better avoided in the working [〈◊〉] them. For as each received a particular name and proper[•] in or at the work, ſo in the digging of them, ſeveral man[•]als are invented for the finding of them, and hereunto [〈◊〉] was made of the Rod. To diſtinguiſh metals by colours a curious skill, as Red gold glaſs, Myne green, black oa[•] however their working is not ſo exactly known that wa[•] That I may looſe nothing in or at their melting, I uſe t[•] means; firſt, I muſt certainly know the property of t[•] oar, before it be beaten our, whilſt it is yet under grou[•] in its breathing: for oars and metals breath onely und[•] ground, though they breath in ſome ſort above, y[•] the ſame breathing is very weak, not going far ho[•] the body; and the rod alſo ſticks onely upon the upp[•] metals, which is the greateſt advantage we have: for [〈◊〉] cauſeth metals to breath into a flame, and the fire-crates and pit-diggers cauſe onely a volatility and cloſing compactneſs, where a threefold damage enſueth. Firſt, there flieth away, not only much of the metal, but that alſo w[••]ch [•]taieth turns to be volatile, and in the ſeveral meltings of it, [•]lwayes ſomething goeth amiſs. Secondly, the remainder of it groweth unmalleable, which hardly can be helped. Thirdly, elevated minerals are burnt to a compactneſs, which if not done, would prove very advantagio[•]s in the After-work, and chiefly they would be very uſeful in Me[•]icina, being naturally prepared thereunto, which is the rea[•]on why many in their After-workings labour in vain, taking [•]ther improper minerals thereunto. For that foſſile Vitri[•]lum at Goſlar, where neither ſilver nor l[•]ad groweth in [•]hat Mineral, where it is prepared highly, copper may be made of it without any other addition: that Vitriol affor[•]eth an oyle alſo, which perfectly cureth the Gout: if all [•]heſe good qualities ſhould be burnt away with the ſilver, [•]ere it not great damage? Therefore I take ſuch a metal [•]hich attracteth breath, and when the unbreathing or [•]dhalation is ſtronger, then is it a living metal, becauſe a [•]ively quality is in it: for breathing things are alive, and [•]reathing is compared unto life, ſuch metal like a breath, [•]roveth as a child from ten years to ten years, even ſo this [•]etal groweth, till it come to its perfect ſtate and body, af[•]erward it getteth another name, and conſequently [•]here muſt needs be obſerved a great difference in their [•]orking, and are aſunder as much as a live thing differs [•]om a dead one, which ought to be taken into conſidera[•]ion, becauſe this diſtinctneſs being obſerved, affords a neat [•]nd pure work. Hither belong all mixt oars, which at ſe[•]arating are parted aſunder and not before, (as the uſual [•]uſtome is.) As in Hungarie there is had every where gold-[•]ilver (that is, in it there is gold) which in its colour and [•]onderoſity is pure, hath loſt nothing, and is ſtill in its wor[•]ing qualitie, and if it had not been interrup[•]ed, and digged [•]p unſeaſonably, then that ſilver would have been turned to pure gold; that ſilver may eaſily be brought to a ſolar perfection, and in it ſelf is it better to be uſed for pagament, and is of better uſe for cementation. In like manner the copper at Mansfeld is good for it, and proveth much better in the work, than other copper, for it wanted but a little, it had been burnt quite into ſilver. The beſt quality of ſuch copper is that they are of a deep colour; they have not loſt that, as uſually electrum's do. But this is to be noted, ſuch oares are of that quality, that the bigger part of the body hideth the leſſer part in melting, it is not ſeen, nor felt, except at the waſhing and parting, there it is ſeen: whilſt it is yet among the earth, it is a breathing oar, and is of ſuch a compound, as you heard: you may confide in it without a proof, though the cake of it be of ſilver colour or of a copper colour, This is it apparent, how Nature augmenteth a metalin body, protruding it upward from below, and that which is neathermoſt, is thruſted toward that which is uppermoſt, in a marvellous ſubtile way: for dead bodies bring ſtill more to it, making it heavier in the mercury, then joyneth the nouriſhment alſo, which are the prepared minerals, affording their tincture, like good food, which breeds good blood: hence flores mineralium have their exiſtence: if you cannot learn their off-ſpring in tha[•] way, there is no other nor better way for it. For this is th[•] true tincture, and not that mouldy or groſſe album or rube[•]um ſo called, where ſuch highly mingl'd oares or tranſparent Veins break, they may be cryed up for an Electrum[•] but improperly called ſo: for the colours glitters ſo purel[•] therein one among another, like in a Chryſolithe or traſparent Amber.

CHAP. IX. Of expiring metal, or of dead metal.

MEtals have their ſet time as well as all other creatures, they decay and dye when their appointed [•]ime comes. For when Nature hath brought the metalline [•]ody unto Sol, then by reaſon it wanteth nouriſhment, [•]nd is ſtarving, then it comes down, gets a ſtronger exhal[•]ing, and the attractive breathing turns to an expiration, & [•]erial breathing brings it to the fires-breath. If the expira[•]ation groweth ſtronger in a metal than its adſpiration is, [•]hen it deſcendeth by degrees, and decayeth, and then is [•]t called a dead oar or metal; for ſtill one external body or [•]ther departeth from it, at laſt in one place or other it [•]aketh a totall egreſſion with its breath, life and ſeed. This [•]reathing is known by the particular Rod of each; this al[•]o aſketh a particular place and work, becauſe great gain [〈◊〉] afforded both by this and by the living one. Conſider [•]t well, a metal, which deſcendeth from its perfection, into [•]nother body, it is like when a man loſeth his lively co[•]our, and at laſt his body, that is its ponderoſitie, and [•]hen the gold turns, not to a goldiſh ſilver, but to an Ele[•]rum that is, to Sol, which hath loſt its tincture. This is great piece of proof, to diſcern ſuch ſilver-gold from [•]rue ſilver; in its gravity it is found heavier than other [•]lver, retaining the body, and loſing onely its colour, or [•]ncture.

It is a greater ſkill to reſtore a tincture to a dead and de[•]ayed colour, and to make it fix. At ſeparating it keeps [•]he quality of Sol. The like condition is red ſilver in, [•]hich hath loſt its colour, making an incorpo[•]ation and [•]nion with copper, ſo that it quite dyeth in its body. To [•]et this ſilver out of the copper, and reſtore its peculiar [•]lour, is a great skill, which Melters are ignorant of, belongeth meerly to [〈◊〉] Chymick Ar[•] and its Laboratorie. How many ſuch Electrums are bought for ſilver and copper? the Buye[•]s thereof have great gain in it. Of the ſame and the like condition are other metals of▪ Is it not ſo, all iron in Hungarie is brittle, what is the rea[•]on? becauſe copper is in it: if [•]hat be gotten ou[•] in that artificial manner, as it ought, that iron proves ſo hard, that no ſteel is comparable to it? Out of that iron are made Turkiſh ſwords, (ſabels) mayles, which no weapen or bullet can enter or break; [•]he[•]e mayles alſo are not very heavy.

Note, the lu[•]ricum at the deſcending of mercury, muſt have room, from ſlippery things eaſily ſomewha[•] may be gotten ſ[•]oner than from hard things: ſlippery things leave alwayes ſomewhat behind; the ſame they do with their tinging bodies, putting them off ſtill ſo, that in the aſcending in their Volatile they aſſume the body, and elevate it.

Note, if you have any material in hand, and in your Afterwork you would know whither you muſt keep to the Lubricum or Volatile (theſe two muſt be thy help.) The[•] your ſtuff muſt be prepared either the ſlippery or volatile way: if you will have a body either aſcend or deſcend, take notice of the flux in the metal: ſlippery ones are more open than the ha[•]d ones. When tinctures begin to depart▪ which are a ſtrengthner to, then the ſtuff groweth mor[•] fluid, comes cloſer together than in the quick metal.

CHAP. X. Of pure or fine Metall.

WHen a Metal, be it in the aſcenſion or deſcenſion, is i[•] its ſeven Syſtem's or conſtitution, then it reſt[••]h o[•] en[•]u[•••]h, till it comes into another body. If you mee[•] with ſuch oar, it yields the pureſt metal, that may be ha[•] [〈◊〉] the world: our Mel[•]e[•]s call this Super-fine. But our [•]uper-fining, which hitherto was in u[••], is an impure work [〈◊〉] regard of this: for in the clarifying, if it miſſeth but the [•]aſt grain, then is it not yet right. Such metals, as may [•]aſily be conceived, is pure good and malleable, loſeth [•]othing in any work whatſoever: though all metals may be [•]ade ſuper-fine, yet none can be made finer than gold is, [•]hich no element is able to touch, to take any thing from [〈◊〉], or to turn it to a Glimmer (Spolium) or cats ſilver, of [〈◊〉] glittering quality.

Silver at Marychurch in Lorrayne is more fine then others. [•]uper-fine is called that, when a metal is pure and rid of [•]s excrements or droſs, which may eaſily be taken off, and [•]indereth it not in its fining. In ſilver Myne-works there [•]re often found ſuch natural proofs of pure and fine oar, [•]hat it might ſpeedily be digged and broken, though it [•]uſt be melted again by reaſon of its Spolium, or by reaſon [•]f ſtrange colours and flowers it hath robbed, yet it eaſily [•]ay be performed, which ſerveth afterward for an inſtructi[•]n, how Mineral-colours muſt be obtained, as Azur, [•]hryſocolle, though they ſtand in the Mineral-glaſs: ſuch co[•]ours love to be in ſuch pure oar, bu[•] are not ſo ſoon inocu[•]ted, unleſs it be in the Sude or coction, in which the metal [〈◊〉] very pure, and yields more naturally the mercury of the [•]ody, be it in the aſcenſion or deſcenſion, aſſumeth then [•]nother body. Hence is it apparent, how the ſame ought [•]o be proceeded within the artificial After-work, out of [•]ne body into another, how the body, in which it is, and [•]om which it muſt be had, ought to be prepared, namely, [•]t muſt be made pure and Super-fine. It appeareth in the [•]talian Gold, eſpecially in that of Wallachia, in which it is [•]oſt pure; how that mercury of metals puts off his body, & the mercury of the body come from the mercury of the [•]etal, puts the gold together into a cloſe body and regu[•]s, and it is ſeen in the gilding, how firmly and cloſely [〈◊〉] ſtick[•]th, wanteth but a ſmall matter of an augmenting [•]uality, its Spolium is onely obſtructive thereunto: it is of [〈1 page duplicate〉] [〈1 page duplicate〉] [〈1 page duplicate〉] [〈1 page duplicate〉] [〈1 page duplicate〉] [〈1 page duplicate〉] [〈1 page duplicate〉] [〈1 page duplicate〉] a tranſmuting and elevating quality, if the other body b[•] awakened alſo: for a body which is between awaking an[•] ſleeping effecteth nothing, it muſt be awakened w[•]olly if at the on boiling of a metal, as of that Italian gold, b[•] but the leaſt impurity, that is, a heterogeneal p[•••], it coul[•] not be brought to a compactneſſe, which is ſeen at gi[•]ding Therefore you muſt give an exact attention to learn to underſtand what the prima materia of metalline bodies is, an[•] how their Elevation is either obſtructed or augmented how homogeneal things are brought to a body. It is apparent in the mercury of metals, how cloſe and compact i[•] ſtands together in the flux, which flux cannot be take[•] from it: purity is the reaſon or cauſe of that compactneſſe being there is no other metal mixed with it: aſſoon as any metalline body joyneth with it, then is it disjoyned, be i[•] what metal or body it will. Hence it doth appear, how metals are brought to reſt from their labour, namely, if the[•] be firſt pure; for into pure matter may be brought what i[•] intended for it; which appeareth in the mercury of metals, its purity is the cauſe why it doth not appear to th[•] eye, but onely in its flux or hardneſſe. The mercury o[•] metals is the flux of the mercurie of bodies, that is, whe[•] water comes to it, or the mercury of metally bodies is com[•] into the water inſtead of the air, which otherwiſe is in th[•] water: take it into conſideration, what manner of skill i[•] required to get winde or air out of the water, and to brin[•] another mercury into that place, if you get the air, which i[•] in the earth, out of that earth, and in its lieu you get in th[•] mercury of metalline bodies, then you have a Mercury i[•] Coagulato; endeavour now how you may coagulate it, bu[•] not in the ordinary, common, and vulgarly known way Bring ſtill another mercury of bodies inſtead of the Marin[•] water into that water, then you have a fair pearl, take tha[•] ſame mercury of bodies, reduce it to an earth, which mu[•] be pure, inſtead of the air then you have a pure jewel a[•] pure as may be had from that, earth is in its colour, or yo[•] may put one to it, which you pleaſe, it is a thing feaſabl[•] Theſe and the like pieces are afforded by purity, all which [•]e work of nature is a leader unto. (Men that caſt ſo ma[•]y foul aſperſions upon Philoſophers are unworthy and not [〈◊〉] be regarded) nor credited, what they can foame againſt [•]eir rare and glorious inventions about the three princi[•]es, from whence all theſe things have their Original, [•]ake trials of it, you will affirm to be true, what I have [•]id.

CHAP. XI. Of impure Metal.

THere is found ſtore of metalline ores, but few of them are pure, and few there are that break or grow one by the other; therefore theſe muſt be ſeparated and ſpoken of apart: The great work & expences which their cleanſi[•]g requireth from their groſſeneſſe let Melters ſpeak of: [•]eparating hath been invented, at which ſome good things of the oars do ſtay, the reſt flieth away, and their fining is uſeful, eſpecially when oars or metals are in their aſcenſion, though it be chargeable. But to find Electrums, and bring them to good by ſeperating, differs from the former fining, and requireth a ſingular way of melting. Cunning and ſubtile Artiſts may pretend to get ſilver out of iron, (I believe they may, if there be any in it) as they do in Sweedland. Oſemund alwayes containeth ſilver, which is onely off driven, and calcine away the iron, and thus they cheat people: can they do the like with the iron which breaks in Styria? no ſuch matter. Therefore take heed of ſuch cheaters, and take notice that nature loveth to keep her own wayes orderly, and keeps together two and ſometimes three ſorts of oars in their aſcenſion and deſcenſion, whereby ſhe intimateth a way unto the After-work; but men in their fancy think upon other means, though to no purpoſe. View all the Mines which are in Europe, you will finde no other oars but impure ones, that is, a mixture of them, for their nature maketh them, as much as I ever could learn; if you can ſhew me the contrary, I will aſſent unto thee, And this is the ſecond Argument, that metals are in their aſcenſion and deſcenſion unto perfectneſſe: if each had its peculiar work and inſtrument, then men needed not to take ſo much pains in melting, to ſeparate them. For it is a difficult work to joyn weeds and ſtones, becauſe theſe are heterogeneal, and are of differing ma[•]ters: but the other joyning ſoon together, require ſpecial w[•]rking to be ſeparated; therefore view exactly the bodies two manner of wayes, which is no ſmall inſtruction. Firſt, in what manner you ſeparate the aſhes from the fumes or food, this miniſters already a twofold ſeparating of metal, the earth from the tincture, there you have a twofold ſeparating, and ſo forth. Secondly, take notice of the Flux, to drive the cold fire with the warm, and the warm with the cold, the[•] you will be able to ſeparate the bodies from Mercuries, then you have already ſeparated the metals without loſſe and damage, uſe thy ſelf exactly to it, and be careful in obſerving their names, not regarding the Miners expreſſions and terms, for the names they give to oars are falſe: for thoſe, which build and dig after clefts and paſſages, have their names of their bodily matters after the ſorts of the minerals, and are diſtinct therein. But you muſt call them after the ſorts of the ſeven bodies, and learn to prepare them; this work is of greater utility. Men are at great expences to get corroſive waters, to get aſunder theſe metals, they do it alſo by way of melting and caſting; but ſuch waters add great poiſon to the work; it is a better way to do it with Lixiviums or ſharp waters, which are not ſo poiſonous, learn their preparation. There is another kind of impure oar, of which I made mention here and there, which contain Myne-ſlacks, you may read of in the Chapter of the Cinders, but there is a difference betwixt the cinder and the ſlack, for ſlack are more corny, yet that alſo turns at laſt to cinders. Theſe ſlacks are the cauſe of the cold fire, [〈◊〉] cenders cauſe the warm fire, or the uredines metallorum: [•]ſe cold ſlacks are hardly got [••] off [•]rom the metal, be[•]ſe they come from the cold flux fi[•]e of mercuries alti[•]e: for as the cinder comes from bodies; ſo are theſe [•]cks of mercury; it is ſeen, when you will have ſlacks of [•]er matters then uſually they belong thereunto; then the [•]rcury of bodies is rouzed, which by the work is no[•]ing elſe but a cloſure and ſtream; for if you can conve[•]ntly get away the ſlacks, then you may perform and ac[•]mpliſh ſomething elſe with the fire of mercurie, and it is either uſual not artificial to deal much in cold fire: ſome [•]iners call it Miſpuckel, Nodus aeris, that Latine name they [•]t upon: it is true, it is very hard knit together, it is dif[•]ult to dig it, and to make its oar to good, and Antimony ſo is hardly gotten from other metals (except from Sol) [•]ithout damage: however, with advantage it may be done [•]riouſly, onely you muſt be expert in Antimonie's quali[•]es. For they belong together and are joyned, as tin and [•]ad, Wiſmuth or Magneſia among or betwixt iron and cop[•]er. This is a good direction, and is ſufficient for ſuch, [•]ho know what belongs to melting.

CHAP. XII. Of perfect metal.

WHo could tell what gold and ſilver were, if they were not known in their perfection, for when they are per[•]ect, it appeareth, when they have their colour, their weight▪ [•]heir malleableneſſe, their flux and hardneſſe: and this perfect metal nature hath produced compactly and purely [〈◊〉] [•]uch perfect, pure, and compact gold is found in Hungary, [•]n the white marble, which preſently may be broken; as [•]lſo ſilver, copper: the difference betwixt the perfect and pure is, becauſe metals are not pure before they are p[•]fect; and ſo there may be a perfect oar, which is not pu[•] which defect is found in many of our metals, which co[•] to their perfection aſſoon as in any other Foreign parts, b[•] in their perfect purity they are defective ſometimes. Th[•] is to be noted by this metal; a body muſt firſt be perfe[•] or brought to its perfection, before it can be ſixt; and is of great concernment to know rightly what fixedne[•] meaneth.

A body which hath its due tincture, weight, and grad[•]ation, yet it hath mixed other obſtructive impurities, he[•] comes the work, and nature begins to copulate theſe two tincture and gradation brings the metal into a purifying this purifying is fixation: for pure is as much as fix. An[•] note, that the ground of the firſt is the body, which is [〈◊〉] ſecret, into that I muſt bring the tincture and gradation a[•] well as I can, and take the tincture from Sol, which is [〈◊〉] thing feaſable: then is it an Electrum, which is a water; for in water it abideth, then I take its ponderoſity fo[•] it, and bring it into an Oleum or into a Sulphur, the body remaineth ſtill, for in the aſcenſion Mercury lyeth the foundation of the body, as an Embrion, to it comes ponderoſity, which maketh it formal, then comes Lubricum, after that comes the Volatile with the tincture, and perfecteth all the reſt it hath need of to its perfection. Why doth reaſon play the fool in deſpiſing the wayes of nature, not obſerving her courſe? For behold how wonderfully ſhe bringeth redneſſe into copper, turning it into braſſe, but is not fixt, becauſe it was not her intent; it is a meer colour which all other oares eaſily imbrace, but is not fixt, which colour is eaſily driven away with wood and coal-fire. Therefore is it a thing of great concernment to learn rightly to know the bodies; for at diſſolutions the property of a pure metal is known, what its tincture, body, ſalt and ponderoſity is, eſpecially if exactly be conſidered the anatomy of all bodies after the Chymick way, how curiouſly and properly are they anatomized: we call the immature ſpirit a ſpirit of mercury; the perfect tincture we call an [•]na or Sulphur, the ponderoſity is called the ſalt or bo[•] for the after-work confirmeth the ſame, that that fixa[•] doth not onely hold in the fire, and all corroſive wa[•] eſpecially that of Saturn, which is a precious one, [•]e then other aqua forts, but better in the malleableneſſe [•]hout the Quart; it holdeth alſo in the cement, becauſe [•]omes out of it. Therefore it is to be admired, why [〈◊〉] talk ſo ſtrangely of it, when they know nothing of it, [•]m whence it is, or what the cauſe of it is! But it is ſo, [〈◊〉] one hearkeneth to the tale of the other, and know no [•]re then they have from hear-ſaying; for they know not [•]at to ſay, nor how to help what the work aileth, if out tune and diſordered; and if any fix and laſting medi[•]e is to be made, then that metal is beſt, even as a vegeta[•] which is come to its maturity. This proceſſe muſt be ſerved, elſe all labour is in vain. For how can ye deſtroy [•]e body of a thing that hath no body, much leſſe can you [•]e the tincture of it, before it comes into the body: a [•]cture may be gotten from it, but not all the colours of [•]at tincture: here exactneſſe muſt be uſed, becauſe it is [•]e greateſt skill to do ſo. One thing more I muſt needs [•]eak of, thoſe that aime meerly with a great and deep [•]ging at riches ſhould view Gods myſteries every where, they compare the Scripture rightly, will finde an inſtru[•]ion, that a ſpiritualty is held forth in an earthly thing: if a [•]etal be brought out of the earth, and out of its Officina, [•]ke a man that is ſet into another life, it abideth and liveth [•]ithout food, is not dead, but is alive; though it doth not [•]t, yet it reſteth, and may ſoon be awakened: thus we [•]ope alſo, that in the other eternal life, where there is Sab[•]athum & Sabbotho, things will be done in a more glorious [•]ay. God maketh uſe of us here for his praiſe, to make uſe [•]f metals in that kinde: it will not be for our miſuſe and [•]iſgrace, but rather put greater honour upon us, more then [•]ver we put upon metals.

CHAP. XIII. Of imperfect metal.

THe imperfect metal is the wildeſt among all the re[•] becauſe it containeth all impuri[•]ies with a confuſ[•] mixture. Uſually there is ſet in a work of many piec[•] which no man yet knoweth what they are, in which y[•] finde matters joyned, which are prepared and unprepar[•] of many bodies. Now if you will reduce that matter a[•] cleanſe its metal, then the unprepared matter muſt firſt [〈◊〉] waſhed away, and regard not the matter ſo much as the m[•]tal, which is yet tender and young in it, you muſt not c[•]cine it but another fire belongeth to it This perfecti[•] conſiſts in nine ſeveral pieces, which muſt be well con[•]dered; each muſt be handled as it ought; if ſo be, the m[•]tal ſhall not ſuffer any w[•]ong and damage,

Firſt, conſider well, whether the oa[•] be in aſcenſion [〈◊〉] deſcenſion, then you may help its colour and whole bod[•] for that metal, which is in its aſcenſion muſt be aided in i[•] folium, but the metal, which is in its deſcenſion muſt b[•] helped with Spolium, elſe it; [•]i[•]th away, becauſe it is n[•] perfected in its due place and Officina; and that metal is i[•] a form accordingly. Thus make your proof, and be in yo[•] After-work the more incouraged.

Secondly, you muſt take notice of the nouriſhment [〈◊〉] food, which, as I may ſay, is not fully digeſted, further th[•] ſame in its concoction, elſe the excrements cannot well b[•] gotten off, which would be the cauſe of unmalleableneſſe.

Thirdly, you muſt take notice of the flux, that which i[•] fluid muſt be fried: for if both fluxes ſhould be opened they would hardly be congealed again. For to diſſolv[•] [•]ew running Mercury of bodies, which per ſe are run[•]g, would prove a meer duſt and atome.

Fourthly, remember the hardneſſe or fixation of it, in [•]at degree of aſcenſion or deſcenſion it is, that you may [•]de thereunto an equal fire of its body: for cinders re[•]reth on[•] ſort of fire, and fuligines requireth another kind [〈◊〉] fire, and calcination muſt have a due fire: then your [•]oceedings will be right, if you know the proper condi[•]n of ſuch bodies, elſe you wrong them, by making it [•]ttle, and flyeth off at a ſecond caſting.

Fifthly, make a true diſtinction betwixt the two imper[•]ctions: from thence this metal hath its name; the one is [〈◊〉] the body, the other is of the inſtrument: firſt, take in [•]nd the inſtrument, and endeavour to help the body in [•]e preparation, and ſtay its flux or running into another, [•]d you drive the [•]chwaden or the cuticle of the ſeed; [•]en goeth the cuticle of the ſeed, and the Ferch or [•]e,

Sixthly, conſider that fire, which nature hath, that you [〈◊〉] not incroach or intrench too far upon the bodies: direct [•]d order all you[•] work upon the Uredines or ſoap, joyn it [•]ith your fire to the inſtrument of the body.

Seventhly, you ought to be inſtructed well about the [•]ncture of the Electrums, that you put not off Sol inſtead [•]f Luna, becauſe you are not experienced enough in the [•]eeping tincture or colou[•], which you are to awaken in the [•]eſcenſion, or when in the aſcenſion you are to ſtrengthen [•]nd to keep them. Painters have a term in their profeſſion [•]hich they call elevating and ſhadowing, the ſame you [•]uſt apply here to bodies, when they are in their perfection: [•]herefore anatomize the bodies.

Eighthly, we [•]ee Limners to mingle their colours with water and oil, and ſo carry them on, you muſt [•]earn a due preparation of the water, to imbibe the colour, which is a metalline water, whereby you corrode with not [•]eſtroying the colours, which you intend to have, if you make uſe of any other water beſides this, then all your labour is in vain; cool with oil, then it remaineth pure, a[•] thus you have much ſtrengthened the Folium.

Laſtly, take notice that the metal be ſtraightened ſo, th[•] it look for no more food. All ſuch things belongi[•] thereunto you finde enough by this inſtrument, or not [〈◊〉] off from it; or elſe you may bring it eaſily thereunto: [〈◊〉] will be but imperfect, therefore put your help to it, y[•] have natures half work for advantage, with great pity hath often been beheld, how ſuch noble and pretious i[•]ſtruments have been conſumed in fire, which could ha[•] been for ſeveral good uſes, the workmen in their carele[•]neſs not regarding them. All other metals belong un[•] this: for very ſeldome is found a whole perfect meta[•] which ſhould not want one help or other. He that is a[•]quainted with theſe will perform theſe works with grea[•] advantage and more utili y. For there muſt be extant perfectneſs, if any thing ſhall be purged, ſo that anothe[•] pure or fix thing be brought in, be it the colour or pond[•]roſity.

CHAP. XIV. Of the Soap-metal, or Metallum Uredinum.

IF our upper Elements could not make a metal to be manifeſt and apparent to us, who would have undertake[•] to work any metal. The great heat and cold which is under the ground is the cauſe of the body of metal, according to the pr[•]dominancy of that heat and cold which is in the body. The deeper the heat or cold is in that body, the fairer is its tincture; this is a true ſaying, But what this heat or cold is above, and what is attributed to the Planet above, underſtanding men muſt know it.

At firſt when the Ferch goeth forth, and goeth along through the earth with the ſeed in its firmamental officina, [•]en it comes forth ſometimes, as far as its breathing may [•]ach before it be infringed and allayed; it ſtill carrieth [•]me of the pureſt metal, and the ſuperiour elements af[•]rd their vertue for their joyning: for where the elements [•]e in a conjunction, there they make a body, and force [•]mething from the Ferch, then it riſeth and falleth, as it [•]lls, ſo it lieth ſtill, this is the reaſon why the corns are ſo [•]rangely faſhioned, they are either round or oval, and ſo [•]me to the metal accordingly, and is found: ſometimes falleth into the water, where it was catcht and overtaken, [•]t moſt of all it loveth to be in the Uredines or ſoap, hence [•]t that name. Soaps are mineral ſprings, where the metal [•]eth to lie, theſe ſpring from below, and theſe are found [•]metimes wholly gilded over, and they caſt upward taps of [•]ch colour. In this Countrey ſuch ſprings are neer Rivers the foot of Mountains, but in the Almen they are on the [•]p of the ſoap as it were upſide down, on theſe ſticketh [•]e Ferch which paſſeth by it, or the air which forceth it [•]m it. The whole buſineſſe lieth in the metalline waters they are diſſolved in their ſalts, thus they eaſily imbrace [•]e Ferch, or the metal of that Ferch and ſeed which it ca[•][•]th forth, and that goeth for the beſt Tin which is on the [•]p, being of an iron ſhot, which iron is of ſeveral different [•]grees, but here in this place it is not energetical, as being [•]ſtructed by two parties.

Firſt, the water is an obſtruction unto it, for oar muſt give [•]y to water, it is carried away: ſuch ſoap oar is ſeldome [•]nd by the Ʋredines, or in the ſoap.

Secondly, this Scobes powder or duſt is not in its right [•]cina, becauſe it is not in this ſubterranean air and element [•]ere the ſingular officina of metal is, and in this manner of [•]dition are almoſt all the ſoap-metals in Europe, but in her Countreys where there are none, or very few of theſe [•]ther metals, if there be found any of them in the Dam [•]th of the higheſt or uppermoſt metal, then is it another [•]tter, needs not to be related here, becauſe it ſerveth not for our work. Such metals are the beſt, becauſe they li[•] deepeſt at the metal; and if you intrench too nigh unt[•] them with the fire, then they flie away with the Ferch, by reaſon of their tranſcendent ſuperfineneſſe: therefore whe[•] this ponderous Ferch and ſeed is grown very hot in bot[•] heats of his work, eſpecially in the deſcenſion, then is i[•] mightily ſtrengthened, in the conſuming it groweth mor[•] homogeneal to the upper Mercuries of the earth and its inſtrument, therefore it doth aſſociate thereunto, and obtaineth a going again, and this is the ground of aſcending an[•] going upward, beſides or without of the officina as much a[•] is known.

CHAP. XV. Of inhalation or inbreathing.

IT is a curious work to build after-clefts and paſſages, fo[•] it ſeemeth a thing to be credited, that in them the brea[•]hings have more their going in and out than through th[•] whole earth beſides, but it is not adviſable to take ſuc[•] fetches about, becauſe there is a neerer way unto it, namely, unto the metals, as if one would goe to the well, and goeth all the ſtreams down, through and by all the ſprings whereas there is a neerer way to goe the foot-path, the ſam[•] condition it hath with the halations and breathings, becauſ[•] the fumes and vapours lie therein, and are obſtructive rathe[•] to the breathing, than helpful. Therefore look not ſo muc[•] upon clefts and paſſages, but rather upon the halations o[•] breathings, which keep their ſtroak throughout the earth becauſe the ſame doth not hinder its courſe, as men ma[•] deem. For we muſt know that the oars do breath onely u[•]der ground, and theſe breathings are orderly diſtinguiſhed This is a remarkable thing, that oars breath from belo[•] where they are, and this is the difference betwixt the hala[•], vapour, fume, or breath, which goeth oblique, the [•]fs way, lateral way, or afar off. Therefore here is to be [•]ken of that inhalation, when it goeth in its own ſtrength, [•]at it ſheweth and ſignifieth, the fume is ſent unto the me[•] from the ſuperiour ſolar rayes, from thence ſhe may [•]e what ſhe will, and what ſhe hath need of for her ſuſten[•]ion, that bringeth the nouriſhment, and driveth all down[•]rd to the metal and the lower planets, but no farther than on the earth, but though the Dam earth per cutem terrae, [•]re the oar or metal receiveth the inhalation, which ariſeth [•]m the work, maketh uſe of it: for it is manifeſt that the [•]ments cannot reach deep into the ground. Seeing the [•]ations are inviſible, whoſe being cannot be ſeen in them, [•]ans breath can ſooner be diſcerned and ſeen, than the ha[•]ion may; which may be known by a Rotten, when a me[•] worketh, then it breatheth, which breath it draweth a[•]n, and ſo forth: then the Sun muſt come in to help, for the Syſteme is at the inhalation, which muſt be known ar[•]cially, there is the pureſt earth, from whence man is ta[•], as ſome ancient writers do conceive, which earth con[•]eth many hidden vertues in the afterwork of Metals. [•]is inhalation ſerveth chiefly for that purpoſe as you heard, draw, ſwallow, and take down the food into the body. For [〈◊〉] muſt not think, that ſhe lets it lie in the body, after ſhe [•]th brought it in, but it is a Vis retentiva to keep that faſt, [•]ich it drunk in, and to that end ſhe prepareth in that [•]ole journey from that place where ſhe receiveth or bor[•]weth of the Sun, which driveth down all ponderous things, we ſee by all ſuch juyces and ſaps which are driven down[•]rd; in this drawing down it hath this quality, what ſaps juices it taketh, the ſame ſink down deeper more and [•]re, and ſublimeth them the more highly into its flores[•] [•]t this I call flores, when it cannot ſublime any further, [•]d brings it at laſt to a garment or body of a metal.

He that knoweth theſe flowers rightly, he hath learned [•]mething of nature, and he that knoweth of what they are made, he is come yet further; but ſuch flowers are mad[•] naturally of mean ſtuff, which worketh by a threefold fire, among which the inhalations fire is not the meaneſt, but th[•] chiefeſt, becauſe it is the next unto perfection. But thi[•] breathing is more a fiery aerial heat, than it hath of any fire, becauſe it flameth without any kindling, otherwiſe i[•] would combure the nutriment in the officina, ſhe concealeth rather, keepeth things together, and ſtrengthenet[•] them, it expelleth humidities and vapours; and conſequently it cauſeth thoſe evil vapours, fumes, and breath[•] which poiſon the whole earth below, and are the cauſe o[•] many dangerous diſeaſes, as it hath been known.

CHAP. XVI. Of exhalations or out-breathings.

SEeing, ſtirring, and moving, muſt be continually at th[•] metalline work as long as the metal attracteth, and eſpecially the in moving or taking into, hence the next inhalation of the living oar muſt be ſtronger, therefore Nature affords ſo, that becauſe the halations can come no further in the metal, becauſe metal is the end of the work under ground, that then the exhalations muſt draw on, and muſt turn into the metal, the return of that metals breathing from below into a true natural breathing of metal groweth ſo ſtrong, that it kindleth, yet without a light o[•] flame, but gloweth without a flame or light, and purget[•] that which is to be purged in the work, not onely in th[•] work in the officina, but in the whole matter, till ſhe heaveth and protrudeth the pure atomes of the earth, whic[•] the Sun gloriouſly diſſolveth again into juyces; for the atomes are the flowers of the terrene-ſalt, ſhe cannot indur[•] them, neither are they uſeful in the earth, but muſt be diſſolved again in the upper air; but this exhalation, thoug[•] [•]t be alwayes about the metal, yet is it apparent in its Rot[•]en, or Rubedo, what the oar doth, then the breathing ſeizeth on the Rotten or Rubedo, and kindleth them, then is the metal in its decay or decreaſe, and is a dead metal, and moſt of the fire goeth forth, which kindleth this Red, and the [•]old ſtayeth by the nether metal, which groweth predomi[•]ant; hence we ſee what Uredines are able to do, when [•]hey are predominant in metals, then the cold gets the up[•]er hand, and diſgraceth the oar, bringing it as low as lead; [•]ut if heat get the upper hand, then the metal groweth [•]igher and higher, and more lively. This is the difference [•]etwixt the heat of fires, which is called Ʋredines, the [•]ehicle of that heat is the inſtrument or matter which af[•]ordeth the place of it. For Uredines are the cauſe of ſome[•]hing, but fire deſtroyeth it, and the uredines may be with[•]ut the fire, and above the fire. The moſt ancient Philoſo[•]hers call it coeleſtes & infernales vires; for it is apparent in [•]old, that fire cannot prevail againſt it, but onely againſt [•]he flux of it, and cannot conſume it, and the Mercury can[•]ot hurt neither, only he bringeth hardneſſe unto it, which [〈◊〉] good, but to what purpoſe? for he is not turned to any [•]lver; both theſe breathings, upper and nether, in and [•]ut breathing comes all to one, and is not onely its quality [•]o ſhew and make known the metal and oar, but paſſeth [•]hrough the earth alſo, to keep them from turning into [•]ones, to ſtay and keep them porous one upon another, [•]nd to make them pure: for it purgeth the earth, as the ſo[•]r breathing above doth the air, and as the ſame breathing [•]bove bringeth and cauſeth winde, miſt, rain, hoar froſt, [•]ow, even ſo the ſubterranean breathing cauſeth vapours [•]mes, breaths, ſaps, minerals, ſoaps, &c. and bringeth forth [•]old out of their ſeed. He that underſtandeth theſe ne[•]her, upper, and other meteors, he may make all manner of [•]uick After-works; For Art treadeth into the foot-ſteps [•]f Nature.

CHAP. XVII. Of corruſcation, or of adhalation, or to breathing or glittering.

MIners ſeeing this breathing aſcend by night, like [〈◊〉] flame, they count that only a breathing, and none elſe which per ſe is not a true breathing, but only a corruſcatio[•] for it burneth away the excrements, not wholly, only ſuc[•] things that are naught and poiſonous, purgeth the air from the ſame ſtink; for where ſhould the cuticle of the ſeed get out, if it ſhould not be carried forth, partly by this flame of fire, and partly by the water? For this ſtink weakeneth the oar mightily, eſpecially it ſpoils its colour, whereas i[•] may eaſily be burned or waſhed away, before it groweth to ſuch a ſtink, be it in foſſils or liquours. This breathing o[•] gliſtering ſtrengtheneth the cenders, it toucheth them no[•] in a way of heat, but in a way of fire, and is not an upboiling, but a burning unto.

Seeing this ſtuff which this corruſcation ſeizeth on, is found often in a place where no metals are, therefore is i[•] very deceitful, however commonly and for the moſt part o[•] a metalline breath. For note the metal never affords or caſteth any flame, neither doth it conſume in burning, bu[•] flieth away and vaniſheth, you cannot know which way i[•] is gone; therefore theſe exuviae ſpermatis, or huſks of the ſeed, is a greater infection, and plainer evidence, that there is an oar at hand; becauſe it maketh many glorious thing[•] apparant, which the fire ſeizeth on, it muſt not quite be melted from, its outgoing is a ſigne that it doth no good by the metals, neither can it ſtay with it, unleſs it ſtick cloſe▪ Here you may obſerve again, that fire doth not good to metals, but a warmth which doth not come from fire, as a natural heat is in man without fire; for where are the coals which nature uſeth for oars, yet is it hot? where is there any better blaſt to make things congeal? A cold without a froſt is another matter, as it appeareth in Pearls. I call it Ʋredines, as a warmth without an heat, yea, this heat and froſt cauſeth a food unto fire, it cannot indure it any where about it; therefore if you bring a metal into its heat and cold, then you have already a ground for the Afterwork; you have little learning or skill, if you do not know ſo much.

CHAP. XVIII. Of Folium & Spolium; or of the Schimmer and Glimmer.

THe ſecond or other thing which apparently ſhews and diſtinguiſheth metals, is the colour. The condition of colour is this, that they are not ſo diſcernable, by reaſon of their darkneſſe, in which they naturally are, they are elevated and brought to a Folium, or are exalted through a Folium, as an obſcure and untranſparent folium doth the ſame in a lucidum & tranſlucidum corpus, the ſame muſt a tranſparent folium do in a thick body, as metals are an opacum corpus, ſhining like the moon with a borrowed light into the body, and the folium giveth it forth out of that body.

Such a folium or glitter may be made artificially, but nature ſheweth that it may be had from a Volatile; though it be true, that that Volatile may not be had, unleſſe in its ſeed and bodie; yet it is ſoon extant with the body; for he that knoweth not the condition of the folium, he can neither in the flux nor congelation bring any oar or metal into its true tincture; the condition of this Folium is, that it is as thin as any leaf in the world can be, of theſe leaves is compoſed a metalline body.

Counterfeit Chymiſts buſie themſelves very much with their Stratums, Superſtratums, but here is it naturally thinner than beaten gold, and this is called opaca perſpicuita, an in brought leaf, not gilded in, or ſilvered. Here lieth a curious skill for tinging, with this leaf, if brought into the Glimmer; one knowledge is the cauſe of another, and as it is ſeen in a glowing and glittering ſplendour, that there is no exuviae ſpermatis, or hull of the ſeed at hand, neither may it be known in any folium or ſpolium, by its ſpeculum's or night lights, to prepare that leaf and ſpolium, which ſoon doth loſen and free it ſelf, and this is the chiefeſt thing, for it goeth off with the worſt poiſon, and comes on alſo, and muſt ſettle and reſt.

CHAP. XIX. Of fuliginous vapours and aſhes.

TOuching the white ſoot of metals, which is a precious garment to ſilver, if onely brought into Mercuries, wonderful to behold, that the corruption of metals and of the firſt bodies ſhould afford the higheſt and the uppermoſt turn to be the lowermoſt, where theſe ſoots are found ſurely there is metal at hand alſo; but fair and more natural is hardly ſeen, than there is in Styria, where they make good ſteel of it. In Wallachia it breaketh or is found neer ſilver, and this is the ſureſt thing in the metalline work, as well in the Natural, as in the Afterwork, which ſeemeth moſt incredible unto the people; and again, that which is moſt uncertain proveth to be moſt certain; the reaſon of it is, becauſe they know and underſtand it not better. Miners have in their clefts and paſſages things hanging and lying, in which great matters might be had and found, but require great toil, and is a dangerous work by reaſon of [•]heir poiſon. Though the Halation and breathing goeth [•]long, yet it carrieth many things with it, which hardly [•]ay be gotten from it, neither doth it quit the pain and expences. Miners call the matter after their way indiſcreetly and inconſiderately, as the greedy Alchymiſts ſuppoſe, that when men ſpeak of the mercury of bodies, to be the mercury of metals; or the ſalts of bodies, to be a [•]alt like other common ſalt; Aſhes of Saturn are ſeen here [•]eetly, before they come or goe any higher, and before [•]hey do turn unto ſilver, for ſoon do they imbrace Antimo[•]y; the ſame the congealed water or coagulated Saturn hath likewiſe, and is a pure proof to all metals, and groweth deep.

Then there is a pure Wiſmuth, which is groſs, containeth a congealed water of Saturn, which is found alſo with great gain about metals, when they are reduced to their firſt matter, then it aſcendeth into a glaſs metalline work, and the aſh-work ceaſeth. Chymiſts in old times, and now alſo made themſelves very buſie with their ſalt, to make all bodies potable thereby, having reduced them firſt into ſalts: but here is an album out of aſhes, which aſhes afford ſalts, which is but in vain; for aſhes are garments, intimating [•]nd pointing at the thing which is clad, and the oar cloatheth it ſelf with it, when it is coming neer the day. The condition of Potabilia is otherwiſe, they muſt be brought into potableneſſe, and is done in a clean contrary way than they goe to work with. But theſe are ſerved well enough, that hoe for nothing but for gold; Nature giveth to ſuch theſe garments; it giveth the ſlip before men are aware of, I mean the body, therefore look well unto bodies.

CHAP. XX. Of Scobes and metalline water, of the Schlich and lie (Lixivium.)

NAture in her work muſt ſtill have an increaſe and decreaſe, ſome things are coming, and others are going; and as above ground at the melting, and at the hammer metals do loſe ſomewhat, ſo it is under ground. But how theſe ſubterranean decreaſes are diſcerned, which like crums of bread ſhould be preſerved, Nature being provident keeps them together alſo, bringing them unto the day light, that they might be brought to good, and that metal is known alſo to be under that ground by the Scobs or alkali which it excerneth, namely, the rocks, ſtones, flints, which ſucked nature drie in her work, theſe are the offals, if empty of metals, and if ſome good oar be in it then that may well be called Schlich or ſliding, becauſe it ſlideth away from the work, it ſtealeth away, where ſuch ſliding is, take notice of it, for it breaks off from the matter in the officina, wherein metals are in their work, and perform their office, and that Schlich or ſliding is a ſure ſigne that metals are in that place.

So the Lixivium alſo, or metalline water is a ſure fore-runner of metals, and it diſſolveth ſtill in the work, and looſeneth ſomewhat from the metals, in which there is a Schnede and vertue: for as I have ſaid, when I made mention of minerals, where there are foſſilia mineralia, there is ſure a Mine-work. And where ſuch minerals are, they ſoon diſſolve into a water or lixivium: and this is the difference betwixt the water and the lixivium; water affords only the mineral, and the metals allow the flowers thereunto, out of theſe comes a lixivium: the effect of this water and lixivium is well known, for they carry in a hidden way flowers or tinctures of oars. The cement or lixivium at Schwelnitz in Hungary corrodeth iron into a Schlich or ſliding; and if that iron ſliding is taken again out of the Dray, and is caſt, then is it good mercury. There are more of ſuch lixiviums, but men regard them not, that water alſo is a ſign of a very pure mineral; for let us conſider the water at Goſlar, doth it not yield pure white and red vitriol? and in ſeveral other places there is found good copper, ſilver, and lead: out of theſe waters may be had again minerals, as you pleaſe or intend to have them, without any great pains-taking. For if a mineral is exſiccated, then it hath no more the ſtrength to run forth, but groweth tough, and is dried up ſinking into the ground. There are waters in Hungary, ſavouring of ſulphur and allom, which afford ſtore of gold and copper; alluminous water in Miſnia afford ſilver and copper; the waters in Bohemia which taſte of ſaliter or iron, afford ſeveral ſorts of metal, except gold. The Mines in Styria have their ſpecial metalline waters and lixiviums, beſides other excellent Mine-works, inſomuch that the whole Mines are of meer ſteel, copper, gold, ſilver, quickſilver, and other things mens hearts may wiſh for. The ſalt waters at Franckenhouſe, do they not ſignifie that there are curious Mine-works there? which if the inhabitants took more notice of, and were more known, what gains could they not make of them? The more theſe waters are running, the better they ſerve for many uſes; if they are ſtanding, it is a ſign that there are evill and bad minerals at hand? and that there are cide, maters, and minerals that were gone and left behinde in abundance, of ſediments and fumes. Take heed of theſe.

CHAP. XXI. Of Scoria and Exuvium, of the ſeed & hull of the ſeed.

THe utmoſt, and laſt decreaſe, and diminution of metals is cinder, which is very good and harmleſſe. I mean that cinder which metals put off by their Uredines or ſoapes. For the exuvium or huſk which the corruſcation or by-breathing leaveth behind, and is like unto a cinder, is another ſort of cinder, like unto that which comes from the forges of Smiths and Melters; for beſides that they weigh their bodies, they cleanſe them alſo, though the lie doth purge the Minerals and colours, yet themſelves alſo do purge, as is ſeen by the cenders which every metal leaveth behinde in the fire, which however are not like unto this. By this cender it is ſeen alſo, that there are metals at hand; for the cenders of Minerals, which the corruſcation cauſeth, are palpable, known, and viſible: Underſtanding Miners know the ſame; There is a metalline cender among the ſlacks, but not known, which is the reaſon why ſlacks are ſo brittle, elſe they would be malleable, or elſe they could be caſt compact; ſome have undertaken that work, but they could not get off theſe cenders.

Touching the Schwaden or huſks, theſe do fairly intimate the departing of the ſeed, and of the work of all bodies: for when the hull ceaſeth to work, and hath no more food, neither of the minerals, nor of the bodies, and now the Folium is gone into Spolium, then it is at ſeparating, and breaketh the band of the leaf and ſeed, which is called the Swaden or huſk; it is an extream poiſon, it deſtroyeth all that liveth, eſpecially breathing things; for it is its intent to return thither again; therefore to what place ſoever it cometh, finding things that move and ſtir, the ſame it deſtroyeth, and it ſelf alſo; and at laſt, it returneth to the [•]ficina of the ſeed, helps to glue on and imbibe, and turns [〈◊〉] be a band again. Where ſuch poiſon is, be ſure that [•]ere was ſilver and metal there, but never in that place, where it went forth, and is turned into another thing; for [•]fter the decay of each body, and of its leaf, and after the [•]ff plucking a ſingular huſk, the laſt it maketh is the fiereſt; for there it lieth like a Speculum upon the water, and [•]aſily turneth into nouriſhments, which is the reaſon why [〈◊〉] turneth ſo ſoon to the metals, and ſo the nouriſhments [•]re infected contrary to their quality, that it wandereth ſo up and down is the reaſon, becauſe it containeth ſome of [•]he ſeed and of the life, and is the untowardneſs: for the [•]eed muſt have ſomething in which it may lie, which if it be not one of the bodies of the ſeven metals, then is it ſuch poiſon or huſk, this is the ſkin wherein it containeth it ſelf, [•]o long till the corruſcation forceth it away, which then [•]s death unto it

CHAP. XXII. Of the ſhining rod, or of the fire rod.

HE that intends to meddle with rods, muſt not follow after his own fancie, nor bring novelties unto Mine-works out of his ſuppoſitions. For nature indureth not to be curb'd in her order, but men muſt be regulated according to nature. Concerning the rod, good notice muſt be taken of the Breathing, & this Lucens virgula, or fire-rod is ordered upon the operative & attractive breathing; for if it were ſtrong, though it doth not kindle, yet it doth its office, through & by a heat appropriated to its quality. A great heat in a furnace puts out a ſmall heat, light, or fire, the ſame effect hath this breathing upon this Rod, which being kindled & ſtuck in, is put out, no upper air or wind can hurt it; for our upper fire cannot live or burn under ground, for if a light or candle be hit againſt a ſtone or earth, it is put out, becauſe it cannot fall in. It attracteth the nutriment, which maketh this Rod burn, and ſucks it dry. This is remarkable in the matter of this Rod, that it hath an unctuoſity which doth not burn, as the ſeeds husk is, whoſe poyſon put out lights under ground in an extraordinary manner. And the breathing above ground doth the ſame in a peculiar manner. Few miners know this fire, and is the onely means whereby the inhalation is known. This fire-work, thus extracted, is of ſpecial uſe in Mines, and then in the After-work is of ſeverall uſe for metals; of the which more in its due place: to deſcry fire by fire is no mean skill, and the ſubterranean fire can in no other way be maſtered. Ancient Philoſophers have written much of it: how ſuperiour elements make their juncture with the nether, intimating alſo that by the means of the middle, Elements muſt be learned the emergy of the ſuperiour and ſubterranean. For they are ſpirits which joyn the ſouls above with the groſſer bodies below, elſe nothing could have any ſucceſſe wit[•]in the earth, and for their operation there muſt be a medium, a gluten: to tie and bind fire with fire, is a ſtrange maxime, but is a true one: hence cometh a reſerve of fire, which never burneth; all three muſt be together: for the upper is the light fire, and the metal is the flame-fire, and the nether is the burning fire. This we ſhall know at the great day in the other life, where God will ſeparate the burning from the flame, when it flameth; then will the burning conſume Hell, and Hell will ſoon be burned away; neither will there be any clearneſſe, but darkneſs, becauſe God beſtoweth the light upon his choſen ones, which is neither a flame nor a burning; here theſe muſt ſtand together. Be acquainted with its friendlineſſe and friendſhip, make it thy advantage, which is abſtruſely hid, and goeth inviſibly.

CHAP. XXIII. Of the glowing Rod.

BEcauſe the ſtirring of the Rod is fallen into abuſe among many people; however it is a fundamental way know and to bring forth the metals, if duely and natu[•]ly uſed. It is an undeniable truth, as I made mention of [•]fore, that metals do breath, and the ſame breathing is in[•]ible; the beſt means to learn it is the Rod, this is the [•]aſon why I call this Rod the glowing Rod, becauſe it re[•]aleth and ſheweth the exhalation of metals, which ex[•]lation is of a fiery heat, though it caſteth neither flame [•]r ſparks, yet it is of ſuch an heat, that it gloweth in its [•]anner, and brings the Rod into a glowing, which is an [•]fallible ſign that there is a living metal at hand. This [•]od, if it ſhould be more glowing without a flame, there [•]uſt be uſed ſpecial matter, which receiveth that fire, elſe cannot be done with any utility. Concerning that Rod; is a ſtick or ſtaff, of the length of half an ell, of hard [•]ood, as of oak, unto it is faſtened the matter, even as a [•]rch or link is made of pitch or wax: this matter muſt be [•]f an unctuous matter, either of an animal, vegetable, or [•]mewhat elſe, which is upon or above ground; it muſt [•]ot be too ſtrong, otherwiſe it ſets the breathing on fire; [•]o talk, wax, pitch, or reſein is fit to be uſed, nor any mi[•]eral, otherwiſe that breath, mineral, or metal would ſet its [•]od on fire, and conſume it; it muſt be a calx of earth, which catcheth that heat ſuddenly, and ſmothers in a heat [•]s calx doth above ground, being moiſtened, it falls thus [•]ot off from the rod. This lime, burnt above by breath[•]ng, is good for ſeveral uſes. But this breathing doth not [•]eize on the unctuoſity or Mine-wax; elſe how could the [•]ouriſhment of minerals proſper? Miners call it a Spath, a true calx of the earth. It is not corroded and ſeized o[•] under ground, becauſe it hath too much of humidity Some call it a Mine Mermel or ſubterranean Mermel, bu[•] is no ſuch matter, becauſe he doth not indure the weathe[•] above ground, exſiccateth, and by breathing is kindled a[•] laſt.

The huge Mountains in Norway, the ores in Swedland, ſeize on it and corrode it, they are full of Spath or calx, i[•] their glowing they grow hollow; if they were in a flame, that land had been conſumed long ago. For as ſoon as tha[•] Earth-water comes forth from this Spath, and the exſiccating earth cometh forth alſo, then the hidden fire falls into their places.

CHAP. XXIV. Of the leaping Rod.

WHilſt metal is in its purification, that it neither riſeth nor moveth, then it hath its breathing the ſame as it is of a ſingular condition, muſt be diſcovered and led forth by a ſingular Rod; which Rod is of two ſticks held together with both hands: where there is ſuch a breathing, it lieth cloſe on that Rod, no man is able to hold theſe ſticks together, if that breatheth on them: and if it were a ſingle ſtick, it would break in two, the inner ſide where this Rod is laid together muſt be anointed with Marcaſite, that breathing draweth it downward, even as the Magnet is of an attractive quality, to draw iron; ſo draweth the breathing of this oar, the Marcaſite; becauſe the condition and property of the Marcaſite is to ſtrengthen the breathing of the purification. There is not a better way of Refining, as to uſe to each metal its peculiar Marcaſite; there is a twofold Marcaſite, one above of the Uredines, or upper elemental heat, and the other of the nether, of this Marcaſite [•]chlich or ſmall duſt is put to the point of the Rod, the [•]etals breathing cauſeth the Rod to leap aſunder. At mel[•]ng of oars and metals there muſt be added a double ſlack, [〈◊〉] upper and a nether, that the metal may bleak the bet[•]r; the like muſt be obſerved here at this purifying and [•]efining. The Marcaſites, becauſe (eſpecially thoſe above, [•]ot thoſe under ground) carry ſoap-metal, and are pure, [•]elp the purifying very much; pure ferment put to dow, [•]rmenteth the ſame quickly; the ſame condition is in oars, ſmall addition will further their Refining. There is a ge[•]eral complaint, that Marcaſite requireth a great deal of [•]bour, before it can be brought to any good, what is the [•]aſon? the true manual is unknown.^[1] call that a manual, when Nature can [•]e aſſiſted with advantage and skill. [•]dde to any metal or oar calcined, which you intend to re[•]e, that is fit to be added, you will quickly ſee the effect. could ſpeak of the ſeveral Marcaſites, of the ſeveral oars [•]d metals, but it is needleſſe for the after-works; I would [•]t willingly have perverſe men be acquainted with theſe [•]rets; they have it often in their hands, but they do [•]t know what they have; for what the Marcaſite of iron?^[2] it is not the [•]gnet? and what is it of gold? is it [•]t Lazul? and ſo forth of the reſt. [•]e down into the mine, take this rule [•]ng with thee, then you will come [•]t of it more wiſe than you went [•]wn, and be thankful for it.

CHAP. XXV. Of Furcilla, or of the ſtriking rod.

AS mans natural breath goeth in and out, ſo is the hala[•]i[•]n alſo, & it carrieth all the reſt. Mans breath when h[•] drinketh wine, ſmels not little of it, or after any other ha[•] ſented food, this carrieth this breath in and out all othe[•] ſenting-breaths out of mans body; even ſo do I compa[•] this halation alſo, with a natural quick breath, which ca[•]rieth all the reſt, that come in the Ferch and ſeed. So ther[•] is no other ſtricking rod for it, but what is of a years growt[•] which otherwiſe is called a Sommer-lath, this the Mine[•] cut off after the uſual way, and ſo in the Name of God the[•] goe: if it ſtrikes in, then is it good; if not, then his u[•]lucky hand and misfortune is blamed, which is fallen upo[•] him, and thinks that his handy-works are not bleſſed; th[•] out of a falſe conceit men ſuppoſe their own aptneſſe a[•] diſpoſition either hinder or further them therein, not conſ[•]dering Gods gift and bleſſing; and the moſt of them doe not know, after what and at what theſe rods do ſtrike, th[•] wear it under their girdle, or on their hat-band, keep it in devotion, as their ſuperſtition leadeth them unto, to g[•] their bread according to their neceſſity: God hath beſtow[•] enough on them, if they knew how to manage their thin[•] judiciouſly.

There is one thing to be noted alſo, that the ſeveral a[•] or breathings have their ſeveral operations, eſpecially up[•] aerial things. For Aſtronomers appropriate ſome tre[•] and fruits to the [•]ir. The upper air hath the upper part the trees and their fruits, the nether air poſſeſſeth the ro[•] milketh and atrracteth the juyce they yield, becauſe it their alotted part as well as the upper part is allotted f[•] [•]he upper air, where it effecteth the juyce, leaves, fruits, [•]s it is ſeen, that the bleſſing cometh from above at firſt, which is palpably ſeen in propt twigs, they make the [•]wig and the fruit twiſtingly firm, and this ſap ſinketh in due [•]ime, which is drawn up by degrees by a hot air from below, which is their food, their work, matter, and all aeriall [•]hings.

Therefore if you take ſuch a rod, eſpecially of a Hazel, [•]r of a Kray tree, whoſe ſap is full, and beareth a pleaſant [•]nd ſweet fruit, it draweth the ſame downward, that the [•]od muſt ſink and ſtrick, it will ſuck out the juyce when [•]he rod ſtands right on its paſſage, this holdeth from above [•]nto this ſtation, where the rod ſtands ſtill, that place they all the oars ſtation, ſtanding as ſtraight as a line.

This rod draweth the Halation naturally after the ſap ſo [•]rongly, that the rod doth bow to the Halation and to that [•]arth, unleſs it were ſo ſtrongly pinned that it could not [•]ow. It doth not draw obliquely, and ſtricketh neither at [•]e upper nor the lower, but at the middle part, which is [•]lled the wind, and is good neither for the one, nor for [•]e other, neither doth it breath, thruſting together the [•]eams, making their outer rind, according as it is either [•]ood or bad, ſo it hurteth or furthereth the upper and low[•] breathing. This diſtinction muſt be well obſerved; the [•]eams and oars run that way alſo. Hereunto are uſed the [•]ps of Almond trees, and of ſuch fruit-trees as do conſiſt [•]f a meer kernel, and an hard ſhell; for ſuch ſhels and the [•]hes of ſuch trees, and all that they have, are much aeriall [•]d fiery, which ſerve beſt for the metalline work, and the [•]eſt kindling coales are made of them, and are very [•]ght.

CHAP. XXVI. Of Virgula trepidans; or of the heaving or trembling Rod.

THe breathings driving the fumes together above and below, you muſt conceive, that it requireth great skill, to diſcern other breathings from this: the breathings o[•] the upper element are jovial, and the nether breathings are jovial alſo, the ſame is apparent in their work. The win[•] alſo is Jupiter, he fumeth theſe together, and that breathing can hardly be diſcerned by the rod: this skill is of a[•] high ſtrain: This heaving rod doth ſhew the way, it mu[•] be made of a metalline lamine, as of ſteel, which muſt be thruſted below the dam earth, at the end of that eart[•] theſe breathings and halations come together, and the ro[•] ſtirreth, quaketh, which it doth not, unleſs at ſuch a time The rayes of the inferiour and ſuperiour bodies may not be ſtayed, but onely at the work they do ſtand; for at their breathing they have their aſcenſion and deſcenſion, are no[•] held in their life's going, unleſſe by the matter of this rod, there is a knot on that ſtick, and it is hollow like a Cane; this matter of the rod is made of an Electrum, drawn fro[•] the beſt thin lamins of Luna and Sol, put into a glaſſe head which hindereth not the breathing, becauſe it will not b[•] hindered, as a veſſel may, made above ground; therefore look how you thrive, if you drive it in too deep, if you tak[•] not matter out of the inferiour earth matter, as hath bee[•] mentioned before.

The ſtrength you perceived of the ſtricking rod, if ther[•] be an aerial halation at hand, you ſee how that rod quaketh for the inferiout aſcendeth and toucheth, and the ſuperiou[•] deſcendeth and toucheth likewiſe, which rouzeth as it we[•] the Ferch, or life and ſeed of the metal. The like appea[•] [•]eth in the clouds, how they move to and fro, before any ſnow or other weather comes, and before the vapours be digeſted, which aſcended; the ſame proceſſe have the halations ſubterranean, before they can mingle with the ſuperiour halations, they muſt be pluck'd off, emalged: if any of them aſcend yet higher, they diſſolve either into [•]ain, or congeal into ſnow, dew, and hoar-froſt, before they part aſunder.

CHAP. XXVII. Of the falling rod, or of the nether rod.

THat there is a peculiar and vehement moving quality and power in the breathing and halation upward and [•]ownward, which may not be ſtayed by any oppoſition, the [•]ame is apparent in all the vegetables of the world. Rain [•]nd great thick miſts may keep from us the ſolar ſhine, but nothing can ſtay this breathing, becauſe it ſtrikes directly thorow, but if it proveth weak in its fertility, it is the fault of the mild air; a ſhot out of a gun, if it is to goe a great way through the air, is cooled. This is the reaſon why the [•]olar beames have not that operation under ground, as they have above it, and hence alſo it is that the metalline matter [•]s not ſo fertile, however they do what they can, deſcend [•]o the metal, where they rouze a fire and preſerve the ſame. Thus the Sun-beams muſt effect all in a magnificent and glorious manner, not onely above to preſerve with its lu[•]tre the lights of all the ſtars, but by day alſo to impart un[•]o the world and men the day light. By theſe beames it [•]aſts into the earth a diſperſed fire, which is advantageous [•]o the preſervation of ſubterranean things; they thruſt [•]ogether homogeneal things, and bring metals to a compactneſſe, that they may be had pure above ground, they [•]elie and lean on them; from hence hath the rod its original. For at ſome certain time you ſee the Sun draw water (as the vulgar ſpeech is) ſo the beams have that quality, they comfort metals by ſtricking downward. There is uſed a ſtricking rod, above at its twiſt is left a part of the ſtick of three thumbs length, at the off-cutting take out the pith, put ſuper-fine Sol into the halation which goeth in, pulls the rod in, where the oar is. The reaſon of it is, becauſe the nether breathing of the air is there, and goeth againſt, draweth this breathing, carrieth it down, and the metal within the rod is pull'd downward, as if it would joyn the ſame with the reſt of that body. Thus the breathings and halations are copulated; the beam muſt conceive on the earth, in which it is to operate, it bringeth no rain to the earth, but the vapours of the earth which riſe, the ſame make or cauſe the rain, ſnow, and hoar-froſt, bring the ſame to the earth, imbibing the ſame therewith; the ſame operation it hath on the ſubterranean vapours, cauſed by the breathing of the metals within; in their aſcenſion it makes them heavy, ſo that they are able to fall unto Sol, helping the ſame in its fertile work. Having accompliſhed its fertility of the work, then ſuch metalline rain falls alſo on the metal, maketh it ponderous, moveth its Ferch in the Lubricum, and draweth the rod down alſo more vehemently than it doth to the ſtricking rod, which toucheth not the metal, but meerly the breathing, which is not yet nobilitated through or by the halation. This breathing might very well be called a fruitful rain, which thus comfortably refreſheth them; it is not a running rain, but onely a breathing which by the deep glittering Sol is made noble. I[•] is not ſufficiently expreſſed when ignorant ſimple Miners uſually ſay, that the Sun in her influences worketh gold not telling the manner of it (as I made mention of bu[•] now) themſelves may goe yet to School, and learn thei[•] leſſon better.

CHAP. XXVIII. Of the ſuperiour Rod.

AS the Planets have not their fixed and certain volution in the firmament, for the which they are called er[•]atick ſtars, the leſſer remain in their fixed ſtations: the metalline bodies are of the ſame quality; for they do not [•]tick cloſe unto bodies, but riſe and fall; for that reaſon I compare them to the various motions of the ſtars above, [•]heir body is rolling and voluble, led and tinged by the Ferch and ſeed, which is for the moſt part of the Suns condition. Planets with the Sun are of a ſpecial agreement in [•]notu & lumine, and their body may be ſaid to be Lubricum & Volatile.

This Rod is appropriated unto planets which hang their bodies to the ſeeds as long as the great breathing of Sol holds ſtill, and ſuffers himſelf to be obſcured, and he muſt ſuffer in giving his luſtre to the earth by rain, miſt, and ſnow, ſo long till he breaks thorow them. So the bodies alſo are corruptible in this upper fire more than the lower in their work. Therefore ſuch a rod muſt be applied which I call an upper rod, that the oppoſite breathing of the reflecting metalline beams which were received of the Sun, and ſtrengthened again may be returned from the bottome to the Systeria, be it as high as it will.

This Turco or Rod is a twiſted tender branch of a Hazel, which from that twiſt on the bulk is hollow three fingers length, for its pith muſt be out of it, and the mercury of metals muſt be put in, the weight of three barley corns or grains: this Rod ſtirreth the halation from below upward, this is the condition of this Rod, whereby is known that that metal is of an infirm body, wanting the influence of [•]pper planets, being defective of the Solar heat, and not of that below, and is the cauſe why Mercuries-lubricum i[•] the rod is ſtirred, making it rebound; intimating, that it is unfit for his work, and that another body is fitter. The planets with their influence work more on imperfect metals, than on perfect ones. For the Sun doth not put a garment on mercury of the body, but a certain conſtellation doth it, the reſt joyning in the work, and are found next to it, except Sol and Luna, theſe meddle not with this Rod. Though theſe alſo are planets, and belong to a perfect breathing, and have their particular rod, as others have theirs, which preſs toward their ſeveral work, they are fitted for not aiming at the works matter, which maketh its principle as the mercury of metals.

There muſt be had a ſufficient inſtruction for to know it. It is thus; a metal is known before it caſts any cruſt, and how deep the oar lieth, and how it may be wrought upon, if I would know whether there be a ſufficiency in that oar, the ſame I learn by the leap of this Rod; if it be a Saturnal oar, the Rod leapeth the more, more than the condition of the body of Saturn is. For this Rod doth not ſtirre the body, but that which is the moſt in that body, namely, the mercury of the body: for it yields good ſtore of it, and may put on eaſily another garment, and be a mercury of metals, and ſo forth.

If in that place be Tin and Wiſmuth, the rod applied leapeth not ſo quick, but more ſlowly than it doth where Saturn is: where a copper or iron oar is, there that rod moveth more ſlowly yet: But this muſt be obſerved, that there is no breathing about metals, unleſſe they be under ground; for when they are there, then are they in their works, whither they be increaſing or decreaſing, they cannot be without breathing then. Thus much of theſe Rods.

CHAP. XXIX. Of reſting vapours, or of their ſediments.

MIne-works meet with many natural obſtructions, as all other worldly things are ſubject unto. For all [•]hings ſublunary are in ſubjection unto corruptibleneſſe; [•]he ſame happeneth alſo unto metals; they ſuffer by their [•]old and hot fires, that they quite evaporate and expire. [•]s when their vapours and fumes grow ponderous, cannot [•]apour away upward: where ſuch vapours are, Miners [•]annot brook under ground.

In a Cellar, where new wine, or new beer is on work[•]g, that vapour ſuffers no candle to burn, by reaſon of the [•]onderous Kho or fume, which cannot ſo ſoon enter the ground, unleſſe theſe fumes be extenuated in their ponde[•]oſity. This faln matter lieth on cloſe, is like warm meal, I call it Caries, which differs from an Oſtiocollum, for that [•]s in the Rocks naturally, and diſſolves at laſt into a fire. This doth not ſo, and keeps ſtill a dry powder, and is hea[•]ier than Mine-aſhes, which are light, and diſſolve into [•]alts, which this meal doth not, but abideth a conſtant [•]ediment, which is like an unwholſome ſtinking vapour, choaking the oars, turning them to a rottenneſſe, being ob[•]tructed in their driving above and below.

Theſe fumes are cauſed, when there are hard rocks, to which fire muſt be applied, which cauſeth ill fumes, which being weakened in its riſing, lie down in a place, grow ponderous, and increaſe; for evil and poiſonous things will ſoon gather to an heap. It is ſeen in gold, being diſſolved in water, let it ſtand a while, and the impure minerals ſeparate from the eſſence of gold, and ſettle to the bottome. Excrements of metal are ſoon brought to that poſture; for being brought to a glowing by a ſmall heat, they caſt ſuch a malignant fume, which choak men immediately.

CHAP. XXX. Of weather ſalt, halitus Meluſus.

THe Malignant breathing, as it is generally ſo called, is a peſtilent ſalt, which indangereth not only the Miners, but hurts the oars alſo: for it allayeth or maketh the breathings fall, which are in the oar, being thereby obſtructed in their natural working. The manner of the ſetling of theſe breathings are worthy to be noted. It may be compared unto an Eclipſe, though the beams which aſcendeth keepeth its courſe, yet the breathing ſtayeth it, and will not let it goe about that place; being in that ſtay and condition, its Ferch and ſeed parteth; at laſt, through its ſides or walls it ſuffers fluid oars to come in; thence is the original of ſuch fluid oars, of which there are ſeverall ſorts. But this is to be noted; That weather is called a weather, becauſe it is not of ſuch clear air, as it is above ground with us, ſtill carrieth ſomething with it, which is groſſer & hurtful unto man more than the air above with us: for men are not commanded to dwell and live under ground, but if any ones imployment lieth that way, he muſt be contented to do ſo, commit his condition to God almighty; becauſe he muſt indure and ſuck in ill fumes, and get Mine-diſeaſes.

This ſubterranean air growing ponderous, by reaſon of the fume and water-ſtone, which ſtop and corrupt the croſs paſſage, then is it called a Weather-ſalt: this is apparen[•] when a burning candle is brought in, theſe ponderous fumes do quench it like water; at laſt, they choak the men alſo. Therefore when that is ſeen and felt, let Miners come out again, for they can do no good there.

CHAP. XXXI. Of Cos metallicus, or ſtone-ſalt.

THe air, being of one piece of pure earth, at laſt turneth to a ſtone. There are ſeverall ſorts of ſtones, as [•]ere are ſeveral bodies in the earth, though all of them are [•]ut an earth. The longer the matter lieth, the harder and [•]tter it will be. Such ſtones cannot be ſtirr'd or heav'd, [•]leſſe by fire, which ſeizeth on the earth, and conſumes [〈◊〉], and turns it to a terrene firmament, as ſcales are in fiſh[•]s, and bones in beaſts. Theſe alſo the Lord will have in [•]is good time with fire. This moved the Ancients to [•]onſume their carcaſes with fire; though fleſh ſoon comes [•]o rottenneſſe under ground, yet the bones do not con[•]ume ſo ſoon, the fire conſumes them being turned to earth-[•]ſhes.

This ſalt is hurtful unto metals, taking from them their working, without it they cannot continue in their life, but [•]uſt expire and die, becauſe nothing can penetrate it. The difference betwixt the ſtone-ſalt and the ſtone-meal is this; [•]he ſalt heaveth it ſelf, when the ſtone groweth to a hardneſſe, which formerly hath been a pretious ſtone, and the air could penetrate it, but now it begins to turn into a horn-ſtone, when this meal comes to the highth of its age, it turneth to a duſt.

Here is it requiſite to relate the difference betwixt the nether and upper ſtone, which partly is obſtructive, and partly a furtherance to the Mine-work; they may increaſe under ground, but in the Afterwork no ſtone is good, becauſe they have no nutriment, and therefore muſt periſh and be famiſhed for want of food.

CHAP. XXXII. Of the ſubterranean pooles.

THere is a moſt heavy caſe which befalls clefts, paſſages and ſtructures, called water-pools under ground. For it is a truth undeniable, that clefts & paſſages under ground have their waters, both the day-water and the night-water, if once opened, then are they made paſſable, which prove the utter ruine of Mine-works. Therefore my counſell is, not to make paſſages navigable to come to the oars. It is juſt as if one would dig a mans heart out of his body, and he would begin to dig at the pulſe, and ſo along all the way to the heart, would it not be an horrid butchery? There is a neerer path to the well, what needs to make far fetches about. There is a twofold water under ground; the day-water, and the ground-water; the day-water is not hurtful unto the ſtructures, but rather helpful, ſoaking away many things, and takes away many times from the ſtages the ground-water. Let the ground-water be kept out as much as poſſible may be, for it doth hurt, if it cannot paſſe away, neither let it ſpring from below out of its Catharacts. Keepe out the fire alſo; for both are hurtful to metals, and to all things in the world, if they play the maſters.

CHAP. XXXIII. [•]f Aurum metallicum; of the metalline gold, or of the Metalline-bed.

THere is another fatneſſe under ground, where metals [〈◊〉] grow, neither is it the hull of the ſeed, nor the ſtone [•]um Petroleum, or Naphta, but is like unto an Uredo or [•]ne-ſoap. It differs much from ſoap; ſoap doth not [•]n, becauſe it containeth a hidden Sulphur, not a com[•]ſtible one, but an incombuſtible one; this is the reaſon [•]y it doth not burn in a flame, neither doth it ſeize on a[•] other thing but onely on the pure metal, if that ſhould [•]t continue with it, the metal could not come neither in[•] aſcenſion nor deſcenſion, it conſumeth firſt of all in the [•]etal, even as greaſe doth in the animals. This fatneſſe is [•]t far from the oar; when it is predominant it conſumeth [•]e metal quite, and evaporateth. Oil is of that vertue, put on the top of a drink, be it what it will, it keeps in [〈◊〉] ſtrength and coolneſſe: this fatneſſe ſhuts up the oars [•]dy that no breathing can paſſe. Fatneſſe hath a great [•]finity with iron, and is one of its next kinde; of the [•]hich great volumes could be written.

In the County of Schwartzburg, at Wackersberg there is [•]ore of ſuch fatneſſe, looks like quick ſilver, and ſwimeth [•]nd tinctureth red, like Bole, this colour it took hold on, [•]nd it may be extracted from it, ſome call it a Mercurial [•]ody or a Tin-glaſſe, Lead-glaſſe, Wiſmuth or Antimony; [〈◊〉] ſeizeth on all thoſe, and when this fatneſſe doth [•]ot turn to a fatneſſe of ſuch metals, where the ſeed [•]s predominant, then it turnes to a volatility, and to a great Robber. This fatneſſe is a greaſie earth, glit[•]ering like a ſalve, of a red and browne glowing, as if it were Quick-ſilver or beaten Talk, or glaſſe ſtrow into. In the Rocks of Bohemia and Tranſsylvania there great ſtore of it at Goſlar and at Slackenwald, even as qui[•] ſilver or lead oars are; many of them are found here a[•] there.

CHAP. XXXIV. Of Metalline ſtreames.

VVHen Ferch and ſeed muſt part from their work [〈◊〉] reaſon of the ſediments, be they what they wi[•] and expire not naturally, then the oars turn to ſtones, whi[•] Miners call Fluxes, though they know not from when[•] they come, nothing can be made out of them, they are f[•]ſible or fluid, when melted in fire, but nothing can [〈◊〉] brought into them, becauſe they are not porous, or no [〈◊〉] can get into, which maketh them more noble. It is ſtrang[•] in Nature if any good thing be driven out of the body, will not return thither; for if life be gone from man, th[•] body receiveth it no more; but theſe are things poſſible [〈◊〉] God alone. My intent is not here to write of miraculo[•] things, but onely of things natural; I wave the former. [〈◊〉] is to be admired that the body of dead metals is ſo fai[•] whereas other bodies which are dead conſume away [〈◊〉] nothing: metals alſo come into a corruption, but in a lon[•] time their death is like any glaſs, keeps its colour, eſpeciall[•] if it was of a Marcaſite, hence are learned the colours o[•] Marcaſites, for green, blue, white fluxes are found therein as metalline flowers have been, which are generated [〈◊〉] three bodies.

CHAP. XXXV. Of Creta, Chalk or ſtone meal.

VVEE ſee in this our air that no fume or wind aſcendeth in vain, it diſſolveth again into one thing [••]other, thither reſort many meteors; the like meteors [•]h the earth under ground: For the fume which aſcend[•] from the fire-halation of the oar, or of the metal, and [•]ords the ſtone meal (Creta) wherever it falls or lighteth, grindeth more, and increaſeth abundantly, having a dan[•]rous ſalt, whereby it hurts thoſe places, where metals [〈◊〉], eſpecially when they are in their aſcenſion, hindering [•]eir colour. It is apparent in the ſlat at Mansfield, where [•]ieth betwixt the ſpoaks of the ores, and can hardly be [•]tten from thence, it robbeth and conſumeth Folium and [•]olium: The ſtone-meal maketh a Kuff with ſtone-mar[•]w, turning it to a kind of marble, called the Potſtone or [••]lit, a double ſtone, and is dark and very firm, it ſtriketh [•]e, being for the moſt part of fire.

Hither belong the [•]alks, but intending to make mention them in another place, I wave them here; however they ſo are ſuch a meal, and differ from others herein, becauſe inclineth more to a cold fire, wherein it melteth like [•]ow, as the others do, and diſſolveth ſooner into water [•]an into meal, and this turnes ſooner to meal than to wa[•]r; if it be of leſſe matter than it hath of the ſtone-[•]arrow, then it affords a fair ice or cryſtal, called Vitrum [•]lexandrinum, or Mary's Ice, which cannot be maſtred in [•]ot fires, but it melteth in cold fires, is very hurtful unto [•]etals; inſomuch, that by reaſon of it Mine-works fall to [•]ine, as it happened at Stolberg.

CHAP. XXXVI. Of Spiro, or of the Blaſt.

THe Spiro or blaſt in an inſtrument which bringeth [〈◊〉] right the weather or obſtructed air, otherwiſe all wou[•] turn to ſtone, where it is, and would be at a ſtand there, the lower fire ſhould enter inſtead of the air, and exic[•]teth, though it doth not kindle, if a piece be beaten off [〈◊〉] it, then it appeareth ſo, and this piece which flieth thus [〈◊〉] ſide giveth to underſtand, how it maketh the ſtone, & ho[•] Nature frameth the oar and metal: but jewels and precio[•] ſtones are from another off-ſpring out of ſweet waters.

In this inſtrument there dwell together fire & air, whic[•] take their power and matter from the malignant weathe[•] where they conſume all ponderous matters through fir[•] inlightening the remaining matter it hath. Make that Spiro or blaſt into a ball of copper, of an heads bigneſſe, ſ[•]der it bright and light, let no air get into it, leave a ſma[•] hole, where a needle may enter, attracting the water whic[•] purpoſely muſt be made and ſet for it: there muſt be had pan of coals at hand, which muſt be kindled, and the ba[•] laid into it, turning the little hole toward the coal-fire, an[•] it will blow the fire forcibly; which being done, it groweth hot, and maketh the water boil in the ball, which fumeth and carrieth it forth with a great fierceneſſe, blowin[•] on the coals ſtrongly, and thus it maintaineth the fire by breathing ſtrongly in the manner of a pair of bellowes, driven from without: hereby ſeveral good things are effected and the condition of this ball is, that it ſheweth what may be done above ground with the like, no uſe can be mad[•] of it behinde that place, becauſe Nature herſelf hath ſuc[•] a blaſt for her fire.

CHAP. XXXVII. Of Pulfa, or of the Break-ſtuff, or brittle matter.

THis ſalt is ingendred uſually by a malignant fume, which the Mine-fire ſhould have; And when the [•]nes be very hard, then there muſt be made a fire of wood, [•]here the fume draweth to the ſtone-fire, and groweth [•]ick, and if the fumes of Succinum, and of other things are [•]yned, it turneth then to ſuch poiſon, that the oar muſt be [•]ed, elſe it periſheth, for that fume lieth on the oar fuli[•]ous Kobolt which corrode and conſume the oar; there a [•]ll muſt be applied, which is round and hollow, having [•]ole at a bigneſſe at which a quill may enter, it muſt be ſo [•]ſe, that no air may either enter or get out, this ball muſt [〈◊〉] filled with gun-powder, cover the ſame with cotten[•]ol boiled in Salpeter, then dip it in melted pitch, which mixed with ſome Sulphur, kindle that ball, let it go down a box, or fling it on a Stolln or chamber, when the ball [•]eth aſunder, it expelleth that fume, not onely by that [•]oak, but with the blow or report the gunpowder makes. [•]ch a ball may be applied alſo to water, and be ſunk in an [•]ſtrument under water, in which noiſome fiſhes are feared; [〈◊〉] crack will kill the fiſhes that are there; there is a paſt, [•]hich giveth no report, but onely burneth, and deſtroyeth, [•]d heaveth this ſalt; but have a care what paſt you make [•]e of, and have a reſpect to the upper Scaffolds, whither [•]ey be old or new, that they be not imbezled, and your [•]ſt muſt be mixed, ſo that it may do no hurt.

CHAP. XXXVIII. Of Clathrum, or of the blank fire.

THis fire needs nothing for its food, ſhineth in darkneſſe is a ſpecial fire for Mine-works, quitteth the charges, i[•] applied, more than the expences do, beſtowed upon Ta[•] or Bromith work; For oil in ſome places may be had che[•] enough, caſts no ſmoak, deſtroyeth fumes; it is put into glaſſe ball which is put into a basket, to keep it ſafe from water and ſand, which affords a light to the workmen Miners ought to know how to enter their ground for th[•] hight or metalline Speculum, which is a ſingular manuall for the metalline breathings, and after-halations joyn an[•] come together, require ſpecial inſtruments whereby they may be known; for where theſe do joyn, and the diurna[•] breathing is predominant, then it exhaleth by day, ſhinet[•] out of the earth; Miners call this a metalline breathing true it is ſo, but they leave out ſomething, ſo it is but half breathing; if the after-breathing is predominant, then i[•] appeareth by that Speculum and light wherein it maketh it ſelf known. She is in work with ſomething, and there is at hand ſuch a metal; metals do ſhine, though it doth no[•] appear ſo to our eyes, like as rotten wood doth: by day they are not quiet, as long they are working, but there muſ[•] be a reflexion of their work, which is this light. It caſteth no beams, as the day-light or rotten wood doth, by night it receiveth one from ſuch a dark or duskiſh ſhadowes light.

Fair and curious breathings are ſeen therein, and tha[•] light of darkneſſe is a light you may ſee by it, he that is diſtant from it five or ſix yards ſeeth it not, nor canſt tho[•] neither, for it is ſuch a light as is in the eyes of Cats, dogs and wolves, which can ſpie thee, though thou c[•]nſt not ſe[•] [•]m, for there is a light at night as well as by day, which [•]pparent in theſe bodies, which receive their light from Nocturnal light, for if that power were in themſelves [〈◊〉] would ejaculate beams, which they do not, and ex[•]ence evidenceth it, that there is a ſubterranean ignis diſ[•]s, a ſcattered fire.

[•]his light is twofold, the firſt lighteth, being thus pre[•]d in a ball of ſome fiſhes or worms, of juyces of herbs, [•]ſaps of wood, being diſtilled, and the diſtilled water be[•] put into it. Take a pure Cryſtalline glaſſe, it caſts a cu[•]s light under ground, if mercurial water be put into it, [•]aduateth the waters made of worms and of woods ve[•]ighly in this darkneſſe, which is called the Light; ir be done and uſed alſo by day, but much better in ſub[•]nean darkneſſe, in which the fire lieth hid, and muſt be [•]ed and awakened by ſuch material and inſtrumental [〈◊〉].

[•]he ſecond light is Speculum, which receiveth that light, giveth an intimation of ſuch hot or cold fires, which every Clown or Miner underſtands: for as it ſhineth in Speculum, ſo kindleth this fire, and is the oar. In [•]s body they are diſcerned well enough, from whence diſeaſes have their ſeveral names, but are not ſearched [〈◊〉]. The difference betwixt the ball and the Speculum is ſame with that which is above ground, I can view all members of my body, but not my face, I can behold [•]ight, but what the Sun of this light is, which mini[•]h the luſtre unto it, the ſame I cannot behold or diſcern

CHAP. XXXIX. Of the Gluten, or Mine-glue.

[•]He beſt help and remedy which may be applied to ſubterranean pools, are wells: for where theſe break forth, they carry that water away: a better and neerer is not tha[•] the Gluten, to dam up or keep out the day water, that the[•] do not run any farther; this damning hath great utility it maketh the water not onely ſlimy and tough, but it dr[•]veth it backward, that it be ſerved for ſome other iſſue, a[•] be rid of it in that place, where it is naught, and meer[•] obſtructive.

If the day-water be thus ſtopped by a Gluten, that cannot run and gather at the ſink, then that ground-wa[•] may ſoon be drawn away at the ſink; the deeper the ſin[•] are cleanſed, the more theſe ground-waters or ſprings a[•] diverted, and at laſt are turned alſo to day-waters, or m[•] be dammed up, and made run another way, where th[•] may not be obſtructive to the Scaffolds; and where D[•]vings of mils are not had at the ſame places, the Glut[•] may be uſed, then the Scaffolds and Structures in the paſſ[•]ges, clefts, and Mines may be ſeen, the dams and the Gl[•]ten are the beſt helps hereunto.

CHAP. XL. Of TRUTA, or of a Paſt for to corrode the ſt[•••] through, or through eating.

THere is almoſt nothing which is a greater hinderan[•] unto Mine-works, than water is, and where the Glu[•] is not ſufficient to keep it out, and in places where it is [〈◊〉] in, and muſt be drawn away with lower buildings, as wi[•] Stoln, or beams and pipes: it is an huge and dangero[•] work, to make theſe thorow-breathings good and holdi[•] it coſteth many mens lives, and great expences muſt made, therefore wayes and means muſt be thought upon make wayes through with burning, to make ſuch a f[•] which corrodeth the rock, and grinds the ſtone, ea[•]ing ſmall and thin, that the water may get thorow, and run a[•]ay, that the Miners may not loſe their lives in that water, [〈◊〉] uſually it befalls them at ſuch works. This fire corro[•]eth great ſtones in running waters or rivers; it is a corro[•]ing fire, a Gluten being made, which is lined or covered [•]ith combuſtibles, poured or caſt down through a channel [•]r pipe, guarded from water, that Gluten may be effectual, [•]ough it be under water many fathoms deep, it ſtill cor[•]deth further, gathering ſtrength by that, it eateth upon [•]d burneth, and preſſeth ſtill lower, it doth not ſmoak, [•]eing a running corroſive fire.

There are ſome ſaps and gums, which if boiled to a hard[•]eſſe, and mingled with unſlaked lime, kindle and burn [〈◊〉] ſtrongly, that they corrode the rock, make an hole into, [〈◊〉] big and as deep as you will have it, ſo that the water [•]uſt ſink away, there muſt be ſet a pipe of wood or of [•]ther materials, as deep as the water roſe, and muſt be [•]t and ſunk to the very bottome, and of this Gluten, [•]aſt or ſtuff muſt be put into, let the hole of the [•]ipe be cloſed with pitch, to keep out the water, make [•]all bullets of this Paſt, kindle them, it cateth down [•]en out at the Stoll, or beams end, the bigneſſe of the hole [•]uſt be according to the Pipes mouth below, which muſt [•]e equally wide with that above, when the Pipe is clear[•]d, and way made for the water to runne out at the [•]ole, then all that water-pool under ground will ſink a[•]ay, and clear the chambers below. This is a cu[•]ous ſkill for to break through rocks, if well con[•]ived and well ordered with exact manuals.

CHAP. XLI. Of the Traha, or heaving materials uſed inſtead of a dray or ſlead.

IT is known, that breathing, and halation, and the weather uphold all both artificial and natural things: it is apparent in great Edifices, that the things expoſed to weather cannot hold, if neither water nor winde tied; the great reparations in ſuch ſtructures ſignifie ſo much.

There is a place in Zips or Sepuſium, called the Toh[•]ſchaw, where firm ſteel aſcendeth by day, and in that place there is no Mine of ſteel, no inſtrument can get any ſcale from it, but lying in the weather one winter and ſommer, it gets a ſcale of two fingers thick. Thus it is apparent, that the weather heaveth alſo a ſtoll, or the great beam or metalline body, why ſhould it not lift and heave a ſtone. This appeareth further at the falling down of great ſnow-bals from Mountains about Saltzbu[•]g, and in Styria, where great pieces of rocks fall down with ſuch ſnow bals, as big as an houſe is, which heat and cold hath thus corroded and looſened. Hannibal making the Alos paſſable for his army, poured warmed vinegar on the Rocks, whereby he made them ſo brittle, that they ſoon could be wrought thorow; oil doth the like, if well prepared. Acetum's made of vegetables of wine, beer, fruits, are pretious for ſuch purpoſes. Ciſtern-waters may be turned into Acetum's, if cocted with honey, being made warm firſt; this driveth the fire back, which is in ſtones, for there are commonly Horn-stones & Fire-ſtones, which are made brittle by ſuch means. There is made a Petroleum alſo, [•]o that you need no fal[•]er-oil, nor any other; no, not Naphta neither, drawn from Oſteinmark, or calcined flints, ſuch water-acetum's being poured upon, & other frighting waters, whereby the hardeſt [•]ints are terrified and made brittle. It ſtands upon natu[•]al reaſon, that ſuch ſtones muſt be dealt withall in this manner; For behold the Gluten and Aquafort, of what ef[•]icacie theſe are? Doth it not corrode the Pumice-ſtone like Bees-wax, and the Top-ſtone like a marble of divers co[•]ours. Conſider well the white marble, and the ſliding [•]and, in which the Pumice is, you will finde what manner of lixivium's may be boiled from them.

CHAP. XLII. Of the froſt in Mine-works.

THe greateſt troubles that Miners are put unto is to pull and draw up all the filths & ſtones that are naught out of the Mine-works, that a way be made to come deeper in. Above ground they call it an heap of rubbiſh. It coſteth [•]o great matter to cleanſe, diſſolve, and void theſe rub[•]iſhes with corroſive wares; it coſteth little, if rightly ma[•]aged and handled, to diſſolve firſt the lighteſt things, theſe being made riddance of, the reſt may eaſily be voided. That earth under ground muſt not be look'd upon, as that is above with us, adorned with graſſe, for under ground there is leaſt of the earth, there is a mixture of all manner of things, as ſalts, juyces, minerals, ſtones, the leaſt part is earth, and yet that part is the nobleſt; for our of it are made all manner of metalline bodies: There are ſharper things, all of which muſt not be uſed at once; and muſt be effected with theſe, when that which is above cannot be applied to that which is beneath: juyces alſo are eaſie in their uſes for to corrode and make brittle. Sulphur alone performeth the work, which is a poiſon unto juyces and ſaps. Miners and ſuch that are imployed about ſuch works muſt have knowledge of ſuch things, and exerciſe themſelves herein by way of practice: for all particulars belonging to theſe manuals cannot be ſet down upon white and black: experimental knowledge muſt be joyned hereunto, not only a depending from things written.

CHAP. XLIII. Of the flaming fire.

WHereas there is occaſion for great and ſmall fires in Mine-works, which muſt be learned and applied according to the ſeveral ſorts of metals, and not after the manner of their ſeveral meltings and finings, and the condition of ſuch neceſſary fires muſt be known alſo. To ſet down theſe in their particulars would require great pains, and the writing thereof would riſe to a great volume.: it is the duty of underſtanding Melters and Finers to order and regulate themſelves in their fires, according as each metalline condition requireth, to further and not to hinder their work; and ſo I commit theſe to their further and ſerious thoughts, and to take theſe things into a fuller conſideration.

CHAP. XLIV. Of Ignis torrens, or of the roaſting fire.

THings inclining to aſhes, and ſoot, and excrements of metals, and the exuviums or hulls of bodies melters ſuppoſe may be taken and gotten off ſafely in a roaſting or calcining fire, they make a great fire of wood under them, roaſt, or calcine the metal, that as they ſuppoſe they retain nothing thereof, or of ſuch offals you heard of now, they [•]eld their exuvium, and copper yields cinders and ſlacks; [•]ut if frightened, then it rubbeth and conſumeth iron; [•]erefore nealing is more commendable, as they do at [•]ansfield, a great heap of oar is laid together, which they [•]dle, let it ſtand in a gentle glowing heat, and burn a[•]ay that which ſhould come off in that glowing. Metals [〈◊〉] Swedland are healed thus at the heat of the Sun in Som[•]er, there it runs finely together, and purgeth it ſelf ſo [•]atly, inſomuch that it would be refined, if it ſtaid its me in that heat. This nealing I do better approve of [•]an of the calcining in a fire-flame. There is a twofold [•]owing fire, and metals require a twofold glowing or nea[•]ng: one ſort of it is uſed at Mansfield, they kindle with [•]undles of ſtraw the heaps of ſlats, let them glow of their [•]wn accord, and they do it like an heap of coals, and the [•]r is nealed, which is put in for that purpoſe. Secondly, [•]ealing is good alſo for bodies of ſtones, reducing them in[•]o calxes; but thoſe that made metalline calxes in an in[•]oſing heat. or glowing fire, they got onely the calxes of [•]e bodies exuviums. Therefore neither themſelves, nor [•]thers have any cauſe to marvel, if they do no good [〈◊〉] that way.

CHAP. XLV. Of the corroding fire.

THis fire ought to be ſet among the coal fires, being of a conſuming nature, and their corroſiveneſſe [〈◊〉] in the cold fire, and it hath the ſame qualities which [•]he burning fire hath; it ſhineth and burneth; its burn[•]g is corroding, in that it is better than the other, [•]ecauſe it doth not burn it to aſhes, but brings the bodies to duſt or ſand, which would be toilſome, if by filings it ſhould be brought to ſtars: the next neighbour to this fi[•] is the glowing fire, of the which I will give onely [〈◊〉] hint.

CHAP. XLVI. Of Ignis candens, or of the glowing fire.

THis fire is purpoſely ordered upon metalline bodies, [〈◊〉] conſumeth them, being their matter is naturally inclined thereunto: This fire is of great concernment, making their bodies very malleable, their exuvium's ſtay on the Float, and is the beſt quality they have, that they put off i[•] that glowing the thing which will be gone, and the good thereof remains. Things now adayes are ſlighted, the world ſuppoſeth to have skill enough it wants no further knowledge, Quot capita tot ſenſus; every one thinks his wit beſt, though ſome have ſcarce begun to know any of theſe things; which is the reaſon why men are ſti[•] kept to their rudeneſſe. Men may ſuppoſe, I mean by this corroſive water an Aquafort; it is no ſuch matter: how many runs of precious Aquaſort is uſed in vain at Goſlar on the Hartz, which would ſerve for better uſe, and the expences laid out for wood might have been ſaved.

CHAP. XLVII. Of Ignis incubans, or of the Lamp-fire.

THis fire ſerveth when metals are wrought openly, and not luted in, then the metal doth not flie away in a duſt, nor doth its beſt run away; for you heard that a flaming fire is hurtful, for to work metals withall. Lamp-di[•]es are commonly of glaſſe, ſet in an earthen pan, filled [•]ith aſhes or ſand, kept in a ſweating, in that ſweat many [•]ppoſe the metal receiveth its body, or the one changeth [•]o the other: I leave this tranſmutation in its worth, and [•]not approve of it. Touching this warmth, I cannot [•]prove nor find fault with it, and all metals indeed ſhould [〈◊〉] dealt withall in this manner.

Theſe two fires of oars and the Lamp-fire, if they were [•]de uſe of in medicinal wayes, would do better than the [•]cining or flaming fire can do, where theſe are of no uſe, [•]d the long fire muſt orderly be kept in an equal heat, if [•]y good ſhall be done. Some kept the lamp fire in a Stove-[•]rnace, where all things were ſpoiled in the working; it [•]s either too hot or too cold: it was of no equall heat, [•]hich the work in the end did ſhew, becauſe it was not [•]ell governed.

CHAP. XLVIII. Of the cold fire.

THis is a ſtrange fire, little can be ſaid of it to thoſe which cannot conceive of it; whether it was not [•]ken notice of, or whether they did deſpair of it I know [•]ot: this is it which elſewhere is called coagulating; it [•]nnot conſume the other fire; it can melt the work, but [〈◊〉] conſume it is impoſſible; it works in the air as well as in [•]e fire, where it ſheweth its efficacy, and is the ſole proof [•]f its fuſibleneſſe; metalline mercury is of a cold fuſion, [•]l other fuſions are hot; if you believe it not, feel it; [•]e fixation of the warm flux is called coagulation, there [•]e one oppoſeth the other; the one congealeth, the o[•]er keeps in a liquidneſſe: this difference muſt be known by thoſe which are imployed about melting of metals, an[•] their fluxes.

It is of concernment, to govern this fire well, or ho[•] ſtones are to be weighed, and things that are exceſſively cold are a death to a tempered body: what animals do li[•] either in too cold or too hot a fire, and to ſpeak preciſely of life, it is impoſſible to do that, as to ſpeak really o[•] God: therefore gaze not upon definitions, what human[•] reaſon is able to conceive of: Philoſophy is ſtrangely conditioned, and it appeareth by this fire alſo, a thing which i[•] very cold, may contein a life however.

When it is in its higheſt degree of aſcenſion, then it come down again, it turnes to ſilver, then to copper; if the nether hot fire doth it not, then ſurely the cold fire muſt do it, for it diſſolveth again into its mercury, which is the flux of the cold fire, if it layeth hold on it, then it muſt ru[•] to all bodies, in its running it puts off not onely the nethermoſt but the uppermoſt body alſo; take this into further conſideration.

CHAP. XLIX. Of the warm fire.

OF this I have ſpoken already; it can be made and governed ſeveral wayes, coals, wood, pitch, oil, and other combuſtible things are fit for it. There I would onely ſpeak of an heat, which is good for the flux of metals, whereby they are purged, as you heard above: needleſſe to be repeated here.

Thus much of this firſt Part; where I infirmed about the nether work, or fore-work, governed and obſerved by nature, whereby ſhe holds forth unto us metals and minerals in their formes. He that conceiveth aright of this work [•]d conſiders it, worketh with advantage and utility, and is great help to proceed ſucceſsfully in Alchymie, which [•]itateth and treadeth into her ſteps. I wiſh hearty ſuc[•]ſſe to all ſuch, which bear an affection and love thereun[•].

[•]raiſe, Honour, and Glory be unto the Supream Master of Mines, by whoſe word and will all things are made, ordained, and brought to their forms, Amen.

End of the firſt Part.

THE [•]ECOND PART Of the Laſt TESTAMENT OF BASILIUS VALENTINUS, Friar of the Order of St. Benedictus.

Wherein are repeated briefly ſome principle Heads of the firſt Part, what courſe Nature obſerveth under ground, and how metals are generated and produced to light; as Gold, Silver, Copper, Iron, Tin, Lead, Quickſilver, and Minerals.

[〈◊〉] like manner of precious Stones, and of tinctures of Metals, how they are diſcerned, and what relation they have to the Holy Scriptures.

LONDON, Printed Anno Domini, MDCLVI.

THE SECOND PART OF BASILIUS VALENTINUS,

CHAP. I. Of Mines and Clifts, and what manner of middle works and ſecond in oars are.

IN the firſt place there lieth a neceſſity upon every Miner, to know how to ſearch and dive into metalline paſſages, how they ſtrike along, and they muſt be well acquainted with all their occaſions and conditions; and if at any place he intends to fall to work, [〈◊〉] muſt know how to uſe the Magnet of the Compaſſe, [•]here Eaſt, South, Weſt, and North lieth, and learn the [•]ayes of this and that oar, and where their iſſue is, and [〈◊〉] w[•]ll informed of the long and ſhort ſtroaks of metalline [•]ſſ[•]ges, and where they d[•]aw together to a metalline [•]m. The forms of metalline oar are ſeveral; ſome car[•] Talk ſlats, an oar which containeth ſilver and lead; o[•]ers are very brittle, having little of ſlate and Talk, and theſe are diſcerned by their firmneſſe: there are other ſtones in which appear Copper, and the flowers of Zwitter▪ there are others alſo which have flat floats and ſlate-ſtone, in which is wrought Copper oar: hence it may be gathered, that by reaſon of theſe ſeveral formes, are produced ſeveral fruits; and in Mines toward the South better oars are found, then there are ſome toward the Weſt called after-oars; between which there is alwayes ordered or placed a center of perfection.

CHAP. II. Of general operations of ſeveral metals.

ALmighty God for his eternal honour and glory hath held forth to mankinde innumerable wondrous works, which he as the ſole Mediator and Creator hath ſet forth i[•] natural things, the ſame he hath ſhewed alſo in his omnipotency under ground, in metals and minerals, of them w[•] may learn, as the twelve Sybils propheſied of the bright true, and onely Son of Righteouſneſſe and Truth, in whic[•] do reſt after the twelve ports and gates of Heaven, and after the twelve moneths, moveable and unmoveable, viſibl[•] and inviſible bodies, the ſeven Arch Angels ſtanding befor[•] the Throne of God; after theſe the ſeven Planets, Sun Moon, Mars, Jupiter, Venus, Mercury, Saturn, and the re[•] of the ſtars, and the ſeven metalline oars in their prope[•]ties, as gold, ſilver, copper, iron, tin, lead, Mercury, the Vitriol, Antimony, Sulphur, Wiſmuth, Kobolt, or braſ[•] oar, allom, ſalt, and other mineral growths.

That the true center may be comprehended and conce[•]ved of, God hath made the firſt ſeparation according to h[•] word; The Spirit of the Lord moved upon the water, th[•] whole elemental body of the earth hath been water, b[•] the Spirit of the Lord Zebaoth hath divided it, & faſhion[•] the earth from the muddineſſe of the water, and therein all metalline fruits that ever were created and generated under ground, all theſe were firſt water, and may bee reduced againe unto water: all other creatures, be they animalls, vegetables, mineralls, all theſe are produced from the firſt water, the ſeveral kinds of beaſts, fiſhes, and ſea-monſters, after the Lords ſpirit, and after the firſt eternal breathing Eſſence, which brought forth and ſhaped things tinged and untinged, ſoft and hard, ſmall and great creatures; after the twelve ſtones in the breſt-plate of Aaron. He created man after his own image, the holy Spirit was infuſed into Adam, who had a fulneſſe of eternal wiſdome, and that according to the order of Melchizedeck. Almighty God, who is the firſt and laſt, the firſt principle and end of all things, hath ſet his gifts into times & hours, dayes & years, which according to his eternal Decree have their revolutions; he hath bleſt in his moſt holy means Abraham, Iſaac, Jacob, Aaron, Melchizedeck, and others he hath infinitely bleſſed, according to his good will and pleaſure from eternity, putteth ſeveral periods unto them; and in his unſear[•]hable decree and will he hath laid the foundations alſo for Minerals and Metals, a help for the ſupporting men in their [•]ecceſſities in this miſerable life; thus hath he meliorated [•]nd exalted the earth in her goodneſſe; men have reaſon [•]o return hearty thanks unto the Creator for it.

God in his gracious providence, next unto the knowledg [•]f himſelf, and of his holy word, can beſtow no better gift to man, than to indue him with the true knowledge of Metals and Minerals: Jews thought themſelves wiſe men [•]erein: but as little ſome Miners know Minerals and Me[•]als, as little knew the Jews their Meſſias and Gods word [〈◊〉] its true ſence. Therefore from that bleſſed and promiſed Countrey the knowledge of pretious ſtones, minerals and metals are come to us, as by an inheritance, as being the [•]ſt, and are become the firſt, and they the laſt; but [〈◊〉] the end Heavens gate will be opened unto them again, [•]ternal and external gifts and means will be beſtowed on them, and the true uſe of metals will be none of the meaneſt.

Where there are fertile ſtones, be they rocks, flints, peebles, marbles, in their central points is found what they are in their operations. The ſeveral gums and raſoms, the one excelling the other in beauty, tranſparency, hardneſſe, or liquidneſſe, are known and diſcerned by their fragrancie and taſt: Miners ought to endeavour inceſſantly, and in ſimplicity, how the neereſt way may be choſen to find out the Mineral-paſſages and veins into which God and nature hath laid direct courſes.

CHAP. III. Of the stones, rocks, and flints of Gold, its operation, condition, and ſtriking courſes.

GOld is wrought in its proper rocks and marbles, and in the pureſt matrix of the firmeſt earth, of a moſt perfect ſalt, Sulphur and Mercury, purged from all feces, and impure ſpirits, with the conjunction of a natural highly clarified Heaven, of white, yellow, and red ſulphureous earth, after the fiery nature of Sol, in a deep fixation; inſomuch that none of all other metals hath an higher, compacter, and more ponderous body of a goldiſh matter, in which there is no humidity; all the elements are equally in it bound up, which in their unity have wrought ſuch a fixed body, tinged the ſame throughout with an everlaſting citrin colour, with the deepeſt tie and uniting of its pure earth, Sulphur and Mercury; and with its Vitriol eſſence it doth all, what the Sun among the Stars doth operate. Naturally, all is gold, what cleaveth thereunto in and at all ſides; and it is found in the beſt and cloſeſt ſtones and paſſages, and the power of Sol worketh meerly upon that oar, and in its quality is comparable unto Sol. This noble gold ſtone and oar is ſometimes mixed, and on its outſide [•]here ſticketh ſome obſcure and dark matter, having annexed to it ſome ſlats and other ſpermatick matter, which de[•]racts from the goodneſſe of its own nature; and though [•]he Creator hath indued it with great Vertues, yet doth it [•]umble it ſelf, and ſuffers it ſelf to be found in deſpicable Mineral-ſtones, where it loſeth much of its tincture, as is apparent by the Touch-ſtone, where the mixture of Copper, Silver, Tin, and others is ſeen; all theſe mixed impurities can be ſeparated from it with artificial Manuals, and with little ado it may be brought into a perfect ſtate. Gold oars naturally are wrought thus, that the gold ſtands in it cloſe, compact, firm, and good, which is found ſometimes in the croſſe paſſages. Its fixedneſſe is found in the deepneſſe under ground, where it hath its greateſt power, and it is found alſo ſometimes in a ſpeckled jaſpis, full of eyes, and mixed with flints in its paſſages, where many times Vitriol flint is found abundantly, which Vitriol is the beſt among all other ſorts of Vitriols. The Hungarian Vitriol hath the precedence before all the reſt, which is ſufficiently known in their proves and exemines, as may be demonſtrated to the eye. In its paſſages are found ſometimes fluxes of ſeveral colours, which are interlined with gold, and muſt be forced with fire. To that purpoſe, it is requiſite that it be dealt withall with ſuch fire, as you heard in the firſt part, commonly Zwitters and Zirn ſtones are ſuch, which muſt be ſtamped and beaten, and drawn to a narrowneſſe, and fined.

Gold is wrought alſo in ſtanding paſſages, and on level ground, the oars and ſuch paſſages are yellowiſh, rocky, and of an iron ſhot-ſand in clifts is it on-grown compactly, and generally is it found neer Flint-works, ſometimes it is found in a flint, or in a liver-coloured jaſpis, ſometimes in white peebles, that gold which is in it is of a white colour, like ſilver, or in white copper oar, where it ſticketh hoary and rugged: it is found alſo in brittle Lime-ſtones, where it ſtands curl'd with black ſpecks unſprinkled, is granulated, like drops found in the ſubtileſt firm ſtones, ſpotted wi[••] iron moals or ſpots, and are protruded in fair yellow flowers and are a black exhalation thruſt out. It is found alſo i[•] ſtreaked ſlat-works in pure paſſages, mixed with a ble[•] Horn-ſtone and ſlat; in flinty glittering paſſages it is foun[•] hoary, and compact wrought. There are found alſo fla[•] marble floats, wherein in all your clifts is wrought inheren[•] gold, mixed with green grit, and iron ſpots; ſometimes i[•] is found alſo in ſquare iron ſhots, or porous marble Marcaſites; but for the moſt part in grits, ſometimes gold oar i[•] found alſo compact & firm in black paſſages: ſome gold oa[•] and gold paſſages are found alſo to be of Minerals and o[•] Vitriol, and Miners in Hungary eſpecially can diſcourſe of it, becauſe gold oar is found in that manner in thoſe parts.

CHAP. IV. Of ſilver oar, of its Mine, operation, condition, and ſtriking paſſages.

SIlver oar is wrought in its own ſtone, of a perfect nature and moſt noble earth, and of a fix clear Sulphur, ſalt and mercury, which with a mixture doth joyn in a fix and firm uniting, and appeareth of a degree lower than the gold is, and is the beſt metal next to gold, and in the fining of it it loſeth very little, and is ſeparated per ſe, or with other metals joyned in the fire, its natural fitted ſtone cauſeth the ſilver oar, following its heavenly influence, and the nocturnal influences of the Moon. In Northern parts the moſt ſilver paſſages are found; for as Luna borroweth her light from Sol, even ſo the Silver-paſſages and ſilver ſtones have at their right ſide Gold-paſſages, and with that noble Queen Lunaria is compared a root, whereby the Gold paſſages acquire ſtrength, and get the more power in that mixture, and get their oars from their roots. Ancient Philoſophers wrote [•]rangely of her Vertues, to be a fertile yoak-fellow of Sol, [•]hich may be applied to the upper and nether metalline [•]ork, becauſe nothing is ſo fix, next gold, then ſilver is in [•]s perfection, and is the reaſon why ſilver-paſſages are ac[•]ompanied with white fluxes and Mineral-veins, next [•]ereunto are ſuch paſſages, in which are generated red Mineral-ſulphur, and red yellow juices of the noble gold.

Silver metalline oar is wrought many times in a red gold-[•]h[•]eſſe, and commeth forth better than the other; a proof whereof may be had, if well ordered. White gold oar [〈◊〉] naturally thus tinged of white copper glaſſe, which [•]auſe ſuch oars and paſſages, by reaſon of the food of their perfect Minerals, and with the glaſſe oar black fumes are exhaled, and feed upon Wiſmuth, Lead and Tin oar, wherein Minerals that ſtrike neer upon the Lunar paſſages, [•]re greedily refreſhed; thus groweth the fi[•]meſt and compacteſt ſilver oar of its pure, proper, and unmixed ſtone, meliorating the bad places and inſtruments which ſilver oar hath many remarkable vertues next unto gold, from the heavenly influences, changing ſeveral ſorts of ſilver ſtones, deſcending from the originals of their higheſt finiſhed unity

They carry and produce alſo, not only mixed chambers and Mine chiſts, but alſo ſeveral hard and ſturdy mixed oars in whole flint-works, and other copper flowers, yellow and black oar, and are found different in their nature, form, and tincture, ſo that the one is more hard, ſturdy, flatty, broader, narrower, whiter, blewer, in its colour thus qualified and natural in its end, middle, and beginning. This is the reaſon why theſe ſilver-fruits and oars are found differing in their colours and forms, the one being more compact, fairer, and of a better glaſs, than the other. Sometimes there is found in ſuch a vein or paſſage firm and compact gold, ſilver, and copper, ſo it is found ſometimes at Krenach.

There are found and ſeen alſo in a certain vein & paſſage in mixed Lime-ſtones, lead, iron, and copper oar in one union and juncture. And in one Mine is found copper oa[•] in another is found ſilver oar, and in another Mine there i[•] found an iron ſtone; why ſhould not ſuch remarkable diſtinctions b[•] taken notice of, which Nature from Gods imaginatio[•] hath h[•]ld forth ſo gloriouſly unto Miners, and ſe[•] theſe before them to be diſcerned by them. Some ſilve[•] paſſages are found alſo in their natural Zachſtones, which either are in the hanging or lying on[•]s. Silver paſſages ſhew themſelves alſo with blue gritty flowers, in hollowed fluxes, in ſprinkled Marbles, and c[•]rry flint-work[•] of ſeveral colours, and theſe paſſages and clifts are full of pleaſan[•] ſilver colours, of yellow and green, of a colour of Goſlings, the more they are mingled with ſuch colours, the mo[•]e they have wrought.

There are ſome ſilver paſſages and veins, which carry three diſtinct colours after the manner of a rainbow, where the one colour worketh in nature either more cloſely, or more mildly than the other, in a curious order, and the one may be diſcerned before the other in their paſſing ſtroaks and ſhootings, together with their Chamber-colours and floats, as they fell ſeverally and apart in each Mine-oar.

CHAP. V. Of Copper oar, of its stone, operation, and ſtriking paſſages.

COpper oar is wrought in its own and proper ſtone, of good pure ſalt and over-hot burning Sulphur, through an heavenly impreſſion into all its parts, tinged red throughout, not quite freed from a ſuperfluous humidity, in an affinity with iron, becauſe copper and iron are nigh kin one to another, becauſe their dwellings and houſes are ſet one by another, and is the reaſon why the one may eaſily be [•]ranſmuted into the other.

This metalli[•]e oar is much wrought i[•] ſlat float-works, [•]hich are green fl[•]n[•]y; many times it appeareth in a red [〈◊〉] b[•]w[•] form, and is ſeen alſo like lime-ſtone in black and e[••]w ſl[••] works, like unto coals in green flinty paſſages, [〈◊〉] a [•]wo[•••]d manner, either current, or in a manner of a oar: ſometimes it is red and brown, mixed with a green [••]ou[•], ſome are of a lazure colou[•], ſome of a copper [••]ſſe, flinty and iron ſhot, or of a white [•]ood. The cop[•]er oar in its paſſage is ſometimes rich of gold, and of ſil[•]er, as it is accompanied with curiou[•] Zach ſtones, and in[•]oſed with paſſable ſtones▪ if ſo be that other metals and [•]inerals do not intrench upon them, which corrode & con[•]me them: And copper oar is a ſlat work alſo, mixed w[•]th [•]liated earth, and the m[••]curial copper is hardly brought [•]ut of it at or in an ordinary mel[•]ing, affords ſtore of iron, [•]nd no ripe copper-food, which rub very much the copper [〈◊〉] roaſting, and make it unmalleable: the richeſt copper [•]ars are fou[•]d in Hungari[•], Bohemia, Sileſia, Thuringia, [•]aſſia, and Voigtlandia; the like is found alſo about Trau[•]enau, where it breaketh every where in a manner of [〈◊〉] float, mixed with ſand oar, and where it breaketh [•]ehemently in the ſlat work, they call that ſlat of [•]lifts, they are poor in ſilver, and ſuch muſt be roaſt[•]d or calcined, in ſome places it breaks in a fair blue [•]nd brown colour, or it looks ruddy, of a copper [•]laſs, [•]nd like unto green oaker, and ſometimes it is white [•]oldiſh, which is called white copper oar: it groweth white at an effectual mixture, becauſe at its uniting it [•]ſſumeth or taketh in much of ſilver and of lead: it [•]reaks alſo of a yellowiſh and l[•]zure like colour, green [••]inted upon floats & moving paſſages, in lime & ſpongeous [•]tones. It breaks alſo of a blue colour like blew oaker, is [•]opper, glaſſy, and flinty, in great and huge rocky & marble [•]aſſages, being mixed with a white marble: they are rich in [•]ilver, in green ſlat ſtones which are clear and brittle; it [•]ieth dry and green in clifts, open caves, and paſſages, like green frogs inſprinkled one in another, in a ſtrange manner, diſtinct, or parted with ſtrange pleaſant colours, whic[•] graduated works are loſers in half their worth; in the[••] rocks are ſtrange clifts of Marble, and of white veins, ye[•]low flint is inſprinkled and mixed with copper paſſages which yield much ſilver, have few flowers, are of a p[••]derous form, break very flinty, of a red glaſs, of a gree[•] colour mixed with yellow flowers, theſe flints are joyne[•] with white gold marble, of a green colour, beſides th[•] rocky paſſage.

There is found alſo copper oar which is rich of ſilve[•] flinty, and not white goldiſh, is of a white ſhining glaſſe mighty in dry hollow ſlat-Mines, ſome whereof a[•]e mixe[•] with iron, or ſorts of Wiſmuth or fire-ſtones. At the o[••] hanging of ſome paſſages is wrought the Chryſocolla an[•] copper oar; on the other hanging of the Mine is wrough[•] pure flint, all according to the quality and condition of th[•] oar. And it is to be obſerved, ſeeing that copper oar are uſually mixed with Sulphur, eaſily unite with the ne[•]ther metal, and joyn with their ſtones, therefore green flinty copper oar which carry in the dry lead, ſlatty paſſages a black Molben are Mineralliſh, and are not rich in ſilver nor rich in species, encompaſſed with immature iron & perfect copper oar, and ſome are free of it, if far ſeparated aſunder, from dry mineral ſlats, are richer in gold and ſilver according as the ſtones take, in a good natured oar, they uſually intrench upon gold and lead rocks, or antimonia[•] oar, as alſo upon iron and ſilver ſtones. There are found alſo flinty paſſages, that have their Mineral juices of Vitriol and Sulphur; ſome whereof partake of allom, & alum[••] plumoſum.

Theſe commonly have the beſt and moſt copper paſſages[•] which are leaſt mingled with other metals, as lime, and tartareous ſtones, in which black flo[•]ts and ſl[•]ts do break are incloſed with green, and are of mild quality; at Eiſlehe[•] and Mansfield Miners put their ſeveral proper names to i[•] very exactly, according unto their nature. Miners in Miſnia know leaſt how to diſtinguiſh theſe, the upper part o[•] clay-earth they call Pistredo, in which the true earth is al[•] and when they came to the ſtones, they call it the Day-[••]rk, becauſe they cover all the reſt, & turn quite to ſtone. [••]e third place they come unto they call Night-work, be[••]uſe it is eaſily lifted and heaved one after another, and is [•]re, then they come to the Cave or Hole-work, which muſt [〈◊〉] hollowed and ſet, here are the ſtones which muſt be [•]oken, then they came unto the ſl[•]t, and below that flat [•]ey come unto the ſand oar, though ſometimes it be on[••] [•]own at the Lochwerg, or hole-work above the ſlat, then [•]ey turn unto the dead earth again. Slat and richeſt cop[••]r oar at the ſilver breathing lieth alſo on the rocky, horn[•]ony combuſtible oars, which have their gold and ſilver [•]ſſages of your ſpecial kind, among which there are found [•]veral forms how each of them is diſcernable. In Hun[••]ry and Carinthia the paſſages yield copper oars, which [••]pper is very malleable, and is at a dearer rate than any is [〈◊〉] the whole Europe, as their Minerals alſo, and eſpecially [•]e Victriol there is held to be the beſt: as alſo their An[••]mony is counted the beſt. That Vitriol hath the beſt and [•]reſt vertues, which is known to true Naturaliſts, and ex[•]erience hath proved the ſame to be true. I ſpeak ſome[••]ing now, which if Reaſon and Underſtanding were an[••]erable, many expences, hard work, and good time could [•]e ſaved, and it comes onely from hence, becauſe Gold [•]reaks ſo near to it, and at the ſame oars is found, where [•]hat earth is impregnated with goldiſh ſeed, and make uſe [•]f the ſame food in many ſubtile unitings. Minerals in their [•]enerating qualities are better ſupported among perfect me[•]als, where they are higher, and more effectual, and are beſt [•]ſed for both ſuch perfect metals, in caſe Nature be rightly [•]mitated, the ancient Philoſophers have bad experience of, [•]nd made trials of it. There is a remarkable difference [•]ound among Minerals, which have their deſcent from gold [•]nd ſilver oars, and partly from copper oars; they are Mi[•]erals and metals, each have their particular nature and be[•]ng, among which ſome oars look green, and bleach at the day, and grow near other metals; but their ſtones are m[•] like unto lead-ſtones, ſome whereof are groſſer, ſofter [〈◊〉] harder than others, and ſome are more obſcure, dark, m[••]dy, and ſome more green, and ſo forth.

CHAP. VI. Of Iron-oar, its Mine, operation, ſtocks, floats and paſſages.

IRon-ſtone and iron-oar is wrought in its Mine-ſtone, a[•]cording to the heavenly influence of Mars; For he [〈◊〉] Trinus magnus, the great Lord of war, and an inſtrume[••] whereby others are forced and compelled; of an har[•] earthly, impure ſulphur of putrified ſalt and groſſe Me[•]cury, which three principal pieces in their juncture mi[•] much of earthlineſſe, therefore is it a difficult labour [〈◊〉] mollifie iron with or in the fire, carrying much of impurit[•] by reaſon of its ſulphur, and above other metals it hath deep red quick ſpirit, which if it be taken from Mar[•] then is the iron gone alſo, leaveth again a putrid earthl[•]neſſe. Iron is not eaſily mixed or joyned with other me[•]tals, or united in the caſting. Iron hath a threefold partition, and ſeveral parts in its earthly oar, namely, a Magnet a quick metalline oar, which hath its quality from quic[•] Mercury, and muſt hold communion and aſſinity with iron muſt be quickened and renewed with iron filings, in whic[•] he lieth like an Hedge-hog, and is indued of Sol in nature with glorious gifts and Adamantine vertues; at on[•] place and ſide it attracteth, and at the other ſide it refuſeth which vertues may be augmented and increaſed in it▪ A true type of juſt judgement ſheweth after the Sun th[•] true hour in the body of the Compaſſe, by water and b[•] land.

Secondly, ſteel, the hardeſt and pureſt moſt malleabl[•] it [〈◊〉], of its proper light drayning place, wherein it lieth [••]e, tied and knit together, in all its parts moſt compact[•]y, which in all iron-works is uſually put to the edge [〈◊〉] point.

Thirdly, there comes the common iron-oar, ordered to[•]her by its earthly Sulphur, which three miniſtred good [••]ughts to the firſt expert Naturaliſts, that Maſter of [•]ne-works Tubat Cain, who made his three principles in things, and made his dimenſions in the Mines in three [•]tinct parts, in which ſuch metalline oar, he found at firſt [•]e iron ſtone wrought in ſeveral wayes, namely, upon ſtan[••]g paſſages and floats, fallings and proper pieces ring'd, [•]er the four Elements and colours of the Rain-bow. [•]en he conſidered exactly its flowers, according to the [••]ndition of each ſtone-work, how and out of what the [•]n ſtone may moſt conveniently be melted, and what man[•]r of inſtruments may be uſed thereunto, where it may [•]ſt and moſt firmly be wrought; for its oar affords a three[•]ld ferocity and wildneſſe, which are uſeful, as namely [•]laſſe heads, which are like a ſharp blood-ſtone, breaking [〈◊〉] the manner of a ſkull, are ſcalie, and brown ſpiſſie, ſome [•]hereof are white thorns, like the wood upon which A[••]aham purpoſed to offer his ſon Iſaac. Secondly, the [•]rown-ſtone, out of which is made glaſſe and iron colour. [•]hirdly, granulate iron-filings in the float-work, which is [〈◊〉] hard, that it can ſ arcely be forced to be gotten off, or [•]e brought to right, and when the iron-ſtone is come to its [•]erfectneſſe, then it breaketh off by piece-meal through [••]e ſtone and rock, that there are found whole Mines of [••]on ſtone, ſuch is the iron oar in Styria. The beſt iron-[•]tone is black, or red brown, ſometimes it inclineth to a [•]ellowiſhneſſe, ſome is of a cherry brown in the floats [•]nd ſtocks, ſome are black and ſmall ſpiſſie, ſome yellowiſh, [•]hich glittereth among the reſt, like a copper ſtone of a [•]rown black marble, & of a fair glaſs, ſome looks like ſ[•]pa[•]ated float-work, throughout the whole Mine, ſome is c[•]o[••]y [〈◊〉] hoary in clayiſh fields, which only is called the Driving, is as the ſand ſtone, moſt hurtful unto gold, becauſe it aff[••]eth moſt of the ſlacks, and very little of iron. Some ſti[••] in the gray clay, which affords moſt malleable iron, b[••] of a browniſh colour. There breaks alſo good iron ſtone tartareous and limy Mines, and the moſt running is on [••]ſtanding paſſages, in eriſty ſandy Dalkſtones. The gr[•] clift ſtones break ſome in their ſlats. It uſually breaks a[•] in the fore and after Mine-works, where ſome of it li[••] off-waſhed among the Roaſts, like a brown arch; and [〈◊〉] the day there is no oar ſo common as the iron-ſtone, beca[••] it aſſumeth and taketh in other oars, and ſetteth it thoro[•] thus often it changeth its colour and nature, after it th[••] inſues Glaſsheads, Emaſites, brown ſtone, Oſemund, Bolus, together with the red oaker and iron ſhell, all thoſe aſſu[••] the Nature of iron, and the iron ſtone receiveth the high[••] metals, Gold, Silver, Copper, Tin, Lead, whereby it groweth untoward, but gold and ſilver are not hurtful unto i[•] they make it malleable; that which is mixed with copper, or with other poor metal eaſily falls aſunder, [〈◊〉] brittle, of the ſame condition is iron-flint, producing out of many paſſages an huge flint, partly porou[•] like unto a black ſlat, which beſides the iron ſtone yieldeth another groſſer or ſubtiler iron. By this exchanging Tubat Cain, the great and firſt Mine-maſter did perceive, that the ſtones have their activity, he looking about, and finding that the Lime-ſtones, which contain iron oar, are of ſuch mixtures, which may be burned to lime or calx, to raiſe walls with them; and how other ſorts of Tapff-ſtones, as alſo calx ſtones are fit for to be burnt, and found them to be helpful for his melting. Thus the iron ſtone is aſſociable unto other ſtones, be they metalline, or mineral. At Muſbach there is copper ſhot iron, which hath a lead joyning thereunto; Founders muſt be expert to deal with ſuch oars in their melting, and Magiſtrates do wiſely that train up their ſubjects in ſuch wayes, for the good of the publick. Thus is the iron the firſt and laſt Mine-work, a chief metal which many creatures cannot want it, being of moſt neceſſary uſe, whereby things within and above earth can be forced, no man is able to remember all the [〈◊〉] it may be imployed unto, for every day things fall out, which there is need of the uſe of iron: iron eaſily re[•]eth a malleableneſſe in a tranſmuting way, of which [•]e of the ancient Philoſophers have ſpoken; our iron [•]awn from the Magnet, performeth many uſeful works [•]he affinity with copper, which it is neer kin unto, as al[•] [•]nto the gold and lead, for thereby are made the moſt [•]rious Alcali, which appear helpful in many things unto [•]er creatures, as Poets write of, and attribute many [•]ange qualities by way of parable unto iron; and if in [••]ing all the vertues thereof ſhould be comprehended, it [•]uld riſe to a great Volume; its ſtones have in many [•]untreys decreaſed, all other metalline ſtones are upon [••]ir decay, onely gold, ſilver, copper and lead keep their [•]l iplying condition all the world over.

CHAP. VII. Of Lead oar, its Mine, condition, and ſtriking paſſages.

THe lead oar is wrought under that heavenly impreſſion of the black and cold Saturn, by an undigeſted water[•] Sulphur, impute metal and ſalt. Firſt, generally there is [•]rought a brittle glittering lead-colour in that oar which [〈◊〉] called Glaſſe, breaking in many rocks, containeth gold [•]nd ſilver, yield groſſe and laſting Mine-works. Some lead [•]tones are very broad, becauſe glaſly oars are mixed with it, [•]ith flints or ma[•]caſites, partly they are glaſſy, red goldiſh, white goldiſh, ſilvery, copper glaſſy, and of copper. Some [•]ead oar tutn to a blue colour, mixed with a white tranſpa[•]ency, like unto a ſhot Bolus; ſome is like unto the ſtone-ſalt and allom; ſome are of a dark green, like unto green floats, which lie gritty in a yellow or glue-coloured cla[•] ſome are of a brown black, ſome are yellow red, like [••]nium, ſome is pu[•]e and compact, ſome is inſprinkled [〈◊〉] moving, ſome is mixed with iron, ſome with ſilver & lea[••] ſome are mixed with marbles and flowers; ſome brea[•] alſo upon ſtanding and level moving paſſages, and ſome [〈◊〉] wrought in pieces here and there in[•]ſla[•]e-mines, whe[•] black lead lieth along through the whole Mine; ſome [〈◊〉] glaſſie in Lime-ſtones, and ſome is very rich of ſilver i[•] huge marble paſſages. There is a twofold Marble; th[•] ſilver paſſages have an earthly mixed groſſe marble, white red goldiſh, red glaſſie, and ponderous. But the Lead paſſages have a ſub[•]ile ligh[•], & glaſſie brittle Marble, whic[•] looks like the glaſſ[•] upon gold Mine works, is of a curiou[•] white glittering quality.

Lead oar is wrought ſeveral wayes, and the colour of i[•] changeth after the manner of the oars, eſpecially in the ſorts of glaſſe oars. For if Satuan lieth below, or is i[•] ſubjection unto others, then the glaſſe hath no power to bring Saturn unto Saturn, an imperfect mineral, which either is too hard, or elſe unroward, and the Nodus of Venus is a miſpuk[•]l, or a mixture of lead and ſilver, which is knitted very hard, but if ſoft, then it is water lead-[•]laſſe, of the which are found in gold juyces and tin-oars a kinde of iron glaſſe, by reaſon mole, but is heavier and mote brittle than iron glaſſe, by reaſon of its terreſtri[•]y or earthlineſſe, which keeps in the metal, and is neither [•]oo ſoft nor too hard, and is glaſſie, white goldiſh, red g[••]diſh, and falls into the beſt metalline oares. True lead g[•]aſſes and oares afford half or the third part of lead, mixed with ſome other metal, and if one of the other metals be found in the glaſſe, which keeps the predominancie, then lead-paſſages are ſimply good, and lead is united with gold, and theſe are mixed ſtones; for the ſtones of Mine oars are more wonderful in their ſingular accidcents.

Thus is here the lead alſo in i[•]s fall, and bleak, after the heavenly impreſſion which the Higheſt hath ſo indued, that it ſubject to other metals, and is the ſupream Finer in the [••]tial Fruits of others. It eaſily mingleth naturally [〈◊〉] other metals, and the qualities of other oars, toge[••] with the leaves, bulk and roots into other ſtones of [〈◊〉]: And Saturn in his degree and power is the Higheſt, [〈◊〉] ſingular diviſion of all his works, in which he ſheweth [•]elf in a clarified tranſparent ſoul, runneth into Anti[•]y with its ſweetneſſe, which ſhould meerly imbrace gold; this is done ſo, not without a cauſe; for in its deroſity it yieldeth the lighteſt remedy to all melan[•]ly and heavy blood. As heavenly aſtrals are ſeveral, [〈◊〉] clouds under them are of all ſorts of colours; ſo the [〈◊〉] lead is purer and more malleable than others, as that [•]ngland and at Ʋillach it is ſeen in the Lead-ſtones alſo. [•]or lead-oars which are mixed with other ſtones, eſpe[••]ly with ſuch as contain ſilver, iron, copper, yield much [•]ight ſtones, and lead work, which are pickt out for ſe[•]ting, and the rather if they are rich of gold. Such wor[•] metals there are in Hungary, leſſe pains are taken about [•]m in their fining. Mineral flints with their unripe juy[••] in the weak joynings of Lead oar unite the Saturnal [•]ſſe; if without any mixture affords to Potters a green [•]zure, if all be not melted into lead: but if you get a [•]ttle mixed flint, there the glaſſe is half upon iron, and [•]h that are moſt pliable afford melting glaſſe for fining [〈◊〉] ſuch ſturdy wild oar, which will not melt. Artiſts [•]y prepare ſuch Saturnal glaſſe, mingling with it a ſmall [•]ntity of metalline flower, which will look as fair as if were a natural one. There may be extracted from lead effectual medicine for mans health.

If ſlate oars are found with another mixture, there are [•]netated moſt fix and firm copper, Vitriol and calamy al[••], as they are at Goſlar in Harlynia. The beſt lead is in En[•]nd and at Villach.

Man cannot well be without any of his members; me[•]lls, according to Gods ordinance are of the ſame quality, [〈◊〉] man knew to make good uſe of them, for nature hath provided richly for him in that way: if men work t[••] ignorantly, what utility can they have of them? Of metalline ſoul is made a chain, which linketh togethe[•] junctures of gold and ſilver: theſe are indued with a [•]cial ſpirit, which is diſtilled into a water through a tr[•]parent head; Nature congealeth under ground in the [••]ſages ſuch water unto ice, for a ſigne, that there is at h[••] a vein of lead, and ſilver, or of pure lead, and if thereb[•] mixture of other metal about it, it is the better.

The beſt lead paſſages are ſuch waters, blew, ſcaly, T[••]ſlate-ſtones, and fluid ſtreaked marbles at length, or [••]led inſprinkled ones, and not wrapt or wound about, [〈◊〉] moving paſſages, almoſt not unlike unto ſilver oars. So[•] lead-oars are of a white, ſcaly, Talk-ſlate, full of wi[•] gar[•]ats, in which Lead-oar doth appear, which is rich ſilver.

CHAP. VIII. Of Tin, its oar, operation, miſt, ſtocks, floats, fallings, and ſtriking paſſages.

TIn oar is wrought in a ſand-ſtone, having its influenc[•] from Jupiter above, wrought of a dark brown, purpl[•] coloured, grayiſh, black ſhining mercurial ſalt, and ſom[•] ſulphur mixed with it, interlined with an unkind groſſ[•] ſulphureous fume, all theſe incorporate together, makin[•] up the body of Tin: this unkind fume is the cauſe of th[•] brittleneſſe of Tin, and maketh all other metals that ar[•] melted with it unkinde and brittle. This Tin or Q[•]i[••] groweth or breaketh in a threefold manner, viz it ſlideth it is full of fumes, and it groweth in pieces: It hath [〈◊〉] threefold wildneſſe alſo, as Shoel, flint, and iron-mould which cauſeth Lead-work; their colours are black, ſlate, brown, and yellow. Theſe ſand and Qwitter oars are invi[•]ned, or incloſed in mighty broad ſtanding paſſages, which [••]pear to the day with Qwitters; ſome contain alſo rich [•]int work; ſome of theſe flints muſt be calcined, ſome [•]e mixed with ſtore of Talk and Cat-ſilver, which is a food to Qwitter, & loveth to ſtay there, ſome there are which [•]oweth in a Glimmer or Cat-ſilver, and is iron-moul'd, o[•]ers alſo do ſtrike in a fire ſtone or flint, ſo that fire muſt [〈◊〉] applied thereunto, others are in a ſoft ſtone, and as it [•]ere ſwimmeth along. Some are richer than others. That [•]hich groweth pure, and in black ſmall ſtones, and heap[••] together that natural work, that giveth the greateſt [•]in. And becauſe Jupiter is the potent Lord of it, there[••]e it hath a mighty throne and ſeat, that is, a mighty huge [••]ne-oar, out of which Tin is made by heaps, and is of [••]t nature and property that it preſſeth outward, and [•]oſſometh to the day, thruſteth off Soap-work, whence [•]me the waſh work of Tin-ſoap: For Qwitter doth not [•]ow in the ſand of earth, beſides in its body it is removed [••]her from the ſeat of its throne to the foot-ſtool, ma[•]th for itſelf a twofold dominion, in one it bordereth and [••]cheth to ſlates aad other ſtones that lie about it; inſo[•]ch that his dominion increaſeth, in which is not a little, [•]t much, on the blue ſtones, fallings, floats, paſſages, [•]ools and clifts, which incline one upon another, and do [•]n; many times a mighty Tin-ſtone is wrought, which [••]keth down among its own cinder and ſlate, and at its [•]king purgeth it ſelf, and there come other fumes like [•]uds, which at all ſides ſhoot into, and then breaketh a[••]n as good as ever it did before; and it is of that good [••]ndition, that it deſpiſeth no lodging, nor paſſeth by any, [•]t as poor and as deſpicable the ſtone is in that place, be [•]ed, brown, freſh, or ſtale, broad or ſmall, it will preſs [•]o, and mingle it ſelf with it, and will not be forced out [〈◊〉] it, making it ſelf great, little, groſſe, milde, fame, ſub[••]e and pliable, even as the reſt will have it, and all this, in natural way; it loveth to border upon ſilver and iron-ſtone, that Tin and iron be united in a mighty fix ſilver and copper oar; all which are found at their ſeveral marks. Tin oar is in this place better and malleable, if found afar off from flint-paſſages, and are leſs mingled with iron mould, eſpecially of copper ſtones, which in calcining can hardly be ſeparated, proves Lead-work, without any fair glaſſe.

Some of it is ſo mild and ſoft, that when they are cleared and calcined, ſtill loſe ſomething, for flints and ſulphureous matters, which are volatile, and cannot indure any great heat, co[••]ode ſomewhat of the metalline Tin, which appeareth by the white thick fume at the calcining: they are calcined thus hard by reaſon of Bake-iron, elſe they might yield as much again; for they loſe extreamly in calcining. It is ſtrange to ſome, why they ſhrink together to ſo ſmall a quantity, being they get a greater quantity of lead with good Qwitter, at firſt brought out of the Mine.

CHAP. IX. Of Mercurial oar and its paſſages.

MErcurial-oar is wrought in its proper Mine-ſtones, by the quality of its ſalt earth, and its nimble volatile earth, in a moiſt, greaſie, ſlimy, wateriſh oleity, which is mixed with a moſt ſubtile, red, ſulphureous digeſted earth, with a moſt weak ſlow binding, like an unripe pleaſing fruit of all particular metals.

Mercury ſheweth its vertue in many things admirably, and worketh effectually upon Minerals and Metalline ſulphur, and upon ſuch which border upon Antimonial ſtones or oars; it loveth to be in ſuch places where the Tin-oars lie higher than ſilver paſſages. It requireth many iterating effectual operations unto other oars, and is multiplied upon other ſtrange ſtones, and is drawn through the juyces of Minerals and metals, which are in affinity one to another, ſever[••] produce many ſtrange miſcreants; this is the reaſon [•]y it is ſo pleaſant unto metals, Goldſmiths amalgame and [〈◊〉] with it.

It is uſed alſo for metalline colours, and is prepared to [•]oil and water for mans health, and is ſublimed for to cor[•]le the worſt of poiſons, and is a true Robber, taketh a[•]g what ever coſts have been beſtowed on him; but if [〈◊〉] can be catched in his nature, then is he in ſubjection [•]d obedience unto quick and dead. He is very effectual in [•]edicina, eſpecially for outward ſores; he is naught to [•]ught, and good to good, and is not every bodies friend, [•]ough he is willing to do what you put him upon His me[•]line ſtones are of the ſame nature with pure white ſlate [•]rth, inclined to a water-blew, in freſh intermingled [•]hite marbles, in a glaſſie grayiſh and porous Glimmer or [•]ar-ſilver] which lie beneath betwixt the ſlates, in a float [•]ay, which are mingled in their metalline paſſages with[•] a fled Ma[•]caſites, and with the ſubtileſt ſmall ſtreaked [•]hite Talk, and are thorough grown with two ſorts, [•]anding and float-ſtriking paſſages, in which is wrought a [••]rious red ſhining quick-ſilver oar, not unlike unto red [••]ine-ſulphur, and ſometimes floweth purely out of the [•]ifts and caves of the paſſages, ſtands in a ſink or puddle [•]ogether like water, which its natural quick ſubſtance ſuf[•]ciently evidenceth.

CHAP. X. Of Wiſmuth, Antimony, Sulphur, Salt, Salpeter and Talk

WIſmuth is wrought in its own Mine-ſtone, not quite freed from a protruding ſilver, or Tin ſtone, of an imperfect pure quick-ſilver with Tin-ſalt, and fluid ſilver-ſulphur of a brittle immiſcible earth, partly of a crude fluid ſulphur, partly of a mixed much exiccated ſ[••]phur, according as it hath gotten a matrix, after it was c[••]ceived: then it turneth a baſtard of a brittle nature, ea[••] uniteth with Mercury, and is wrought naturally in a tw[•]fold form, the one is fluid and metalline, is melted with [〈◊〉] wood, being mixed wi[•]h clay, yieldeth much of white A[••]nick. The other is ſmall ſtreaked, or ſpiſſie, remaineth [〈◊〉] unripe ſubſtance, yields a fix ſulphur inſtead of Arſenic[•] both theſe are ſilver Wiſmuth.

Antimonie comes from perfect Mercurie, wrought of [••]tle ſalt and a wateriſh fluid ſulphur, though it ſhineth bl[•••] naturally, and its out-ſide is of an antimonial form, yet graduateth and purifieth the noble nature of Gold, a[•] doth much good unto man, being artificially prepared [〈◊〉] its ſeveral wayes: notwithſtanding its colour, it keep[•] its high and mighty praiſe and vertue: For meeting with [〈◊〉] Maſter, which can clarifie it, and gets its natural Gold c[••] of it, and extracts a bloud red Oyl from it, that ſerveth againſt many Chronical diſeaſes; it muſt be reduced to [〈◊〉] tranſparent glaſſe: this black evaporated unripe metall repreſents to us Gods Majeſtick glory, who is not a regarde[•] of perſons, beſtowing upon poor deſpiſed men rarities [〈◊〉] vertues and knowledge!

The red mine ſulphur, which is found in T[•]rol, T[•••]witz, and Engadin, and groweth in a black blue ſlat-ſtone, [〈◊〉] hath ſingulas innumerable good vertues, wherein lyeth h[••] a mighty purifying quality, lyeth on with its colour [〈◊〉] the red goldiſh ſilver oar, o[•] Cinober oar, and looks almo[••] like unto it, whoſe redneſſe ſhineth forth moſt pleaſantly.

Salt hath its ſpecial vertues to penetrate and to preſer[••] from putrefaction, containeth a noble ſpirit: and it we[••] very neceſſary, that men would not be ſo careleſſe and neglectfull in their ſeaſoning with ſalt, ſuffering matters [••]ſtinck and corrupt, conſidering too ſlightly, and taking [〈◊〉] ſmall notice of the noble gift put into good mineral work [〈◊〉] peter lying on their hoary old vvalls.

Talk is an ingrown ſulphur, ſhineth incombuſtibly like [•]ld and ſilver, cloſeth and boweth, is tranſparent like [••]ſſe, is called Sulphur, Lutum, keepeth in the fire incom[••]ſtible, like Alumen plumoſum, lyeth in Rocks and ſtone-[•]orks, ſerveth for graduating of metals. Every metal, [•]ineral and ſalt in particular is good to be uſed, each is [••]ſtinguiſhed in its particular name: even as thoſe that [•]ake glaſſes, put their ſeveral names upon them, and put [••]eir ſeveral forms upon them, making them into drink[••]g glaſſes, flagons, bodies, bolt heads, helmets, recei[•]ers, pellicans, jar-glaſſes, wine-glaſſes, funnels, all [••]eſe he frameth after his own fancie, either into [••]all, great, long, or round forms, even as he plea[•]eth.

CHAP. XI. A compariſon between Gods word and the Mineralls.

LIke as the heavenly glorious God in a ſpiritual way, in his moſt deareſt Son our Lord JESUS CHRIST, at his redeeming of man-kinde for the good of man appeared a Sun of righteouſneſſe, which glory the Prophet Eſaias hath propheſied of in the Lords ſpirit many years ago: How two Cherubims and Seraphims having ſix wings, moved and ſung before the Lord: Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Zebao[•]h, of whoſe glory all the world is full, which Prophet hath ſeen the moſt omnipotent Lord of Lords, knowing him a God in a Triple eſſence, and that out of that noble Chaos of Jeſus Chriſt ſhould flow the fountain of life of mercie and righteouſneſſe, which the Lord God made apparent on the Tree of the holy Croſſe, where out of the ſide of his deareſt Son did run bloud and water, to which the Lord in the Revelation of St. John addeth, fire, ſmoak, and fumes this union according to the Divine Word is grown at the beginning in all creatures, and what ever God the Holy Trinity hath ever created, conſiſteth in a Trinity, even as the Deity is in an eternal Trinity; As the Deity is indiviſible in the Humanity, α & ω, in the water and blood for an eternal remembrance, that is, the fi[•]ſt and the laſt letter: as in the Heavenly, even ſo in the earthly, the perfect Alphabet muſt not be cut aſunder, all muſt ſtand from the beginning to the end; and Chriſt Jeſus purgeth his dear friends ſtill unto eternal life through water and blood, ſaying to their hearts, all thy ſins are forgiven thee, thy faith doth ſave thee. No man is ſaved, unleſſe he be fi[•]ſt born again, that is, through water & blood, which throughly purgeth not only men and the ſons of men, but alſo the whole Limbus upon earth; for it is not the metalline blood and water, neither is it Mercery and Sulphur that doth it, neither in the body under ground is any goldiſh ſilver wrought to any blood red oar, the blood out of Chriſt ſide ſhed for the good of man, is that great evidence for thus all Mineral ſtones, that are in the plain element of earth, and the ſpirit of all oars and marbles and ſtones come from the divine eſſence, as alſo the heavenly ſpirits for the throne of God, with the heavenly Angels and Sp[•]rits are furniſhed for rhe praiſe of God: thus the earth alſo is created is her ſtones, oars, ve[•]ns, paſſages, for the honour of God, and the welfare of man, which imitateth Gods wiſdome, filled with infi[•]ite and unceſſant forth-bringing of fruits.

Whence ſhould be the decay of metals? ſurely even as the eyes of the holy Apoſtles and Diſciples were held, that they could not know the Lord in his clarified ſpiritual body and eſſence; no more can men ſee theſe things in metals.

Why doth Saint John in his Revelation ſpeak of ſmoak and of fume? Surely he did not mean the fire, ſmoak, and fume of Bakers ovens, or Kitchin-chimneys, but there was revealed unto him the heavenly fire, the miſt, vapour, and fume, which is exhaled from the moiſture of earth, and [••]ated to the clouds: ſo in the ſubterranean works the [••]e and ſpoil, or outſide of the oar are ſublimed, and the [〈◊〉] of the froſt which rouzeth the effectual powers, va[•]rs and ſpirits maketh them come to a perfect unity in [••]alline bodies. Now if there were not a fire & vaporous [••]e in the earth, how could they produce their fruits, [•]ich are the minerals and metals under ground?

As the fiery element is covered with the airie, and the [•]ven with clouds, and the earth is filled by them, and [•]ether with the fire was incloſed as one element with [〈◊〉] other two. In like manner, at the firſt Creation, the [•]erranean paſſages and veins were laden with oars, as [•]s were with fruit, which the Lord God in Paradiſe [〈◊〉] implanted into them. This effectual fire, vapour and [•]e is likened unto Mercury, Sulphur, Salt, and Sea-wa[•] wherein earth lieth incloſed and hidden, even as the [•]eameſt throne of God is encompaſſed by other thrones [〈◊〉] heavenly habitations.

[•]s the four Evangeliſts are witneſſes of the New Teſta[••]t and Covenant; ſo they are a type and ſure teſtimony [•]he four elements, that the earth is created after the ho[••]eaven; thus are we taught in the Lords prayer, as it is [•]eaven, ſo in the earth, in which, and beneath, and under [〈◊〉] is every where. This is in action ſtill, King David [•]d confeſſe, that he could not hide himſelf from the [〈◊〉] any where.

[•]eeing the holy and bleſſed God hath laid the creatures [••]e earth with the four elementall qualities, therefore [•]ational Miners open their eyes, and learn judicially to [•]w the paſſages and clifts of oars, metals and minerals, [〈◊〉] they will get a laſting name with great praiſe, and will [•]ke the noble gold, which in a glory and beauty appea[••] when it comes from the Quart, and can be then redu[••] into an oil, which preſerveth man in a laſting health, [•]nd any balſom, and is become a vegetable, which is [•]ble.

It is feaſeable, that of gold may be prepared a ſingul[••] Medicine for the good of man-kinde, becauſe man is cre[•]ted of God from Limus terrae, and the whole earth is [〈◊〉] Limus, ſuch another Medicine all the Doctors are not abl[•] produce, which is of a curious ſweet fragrancy, ſtandi[••] diſtinct in two lights, and muſt needs be in rerum natur[•] becauſe it was brought on God his Altar, for an offering b[•] mans art prepared, and ſuffer'd it to be extinguiſhed None knoweth what it is, neither we literated Docto[•] know the preparation of it, who when their Confectio[•] Syrups, Herbs and Potions will do no good, and are in d[•]ſpair, then they might willingly run to Metals, which f[••]merly they made conſcience to make uſe of them in the Oyntmenis and Plaiſters; of this I make mention in a r[•]verend remembrance for true rational myners. Out of go[••] and ſilver are joyned not onely gold and ſilver monies a[•] other plates for mans uſe, but they ſerve for mans uſe in m[•]ny other things: and after the firſt metals vertue, there co[••] others alſo more and more very effectual, even to the l[••] of metals.

Such vertues there are in minerals alſo, as in vitriol, a[•]timony, allom, ſalt, and the like. All theſe are a nouriſ[•]ment unto metals, even as Manna was to the Iſraelites [〈◊〉] the deſart. As they are eaſily withdrawn and taken fro[•] metals, ſo it hapned to them alſo: Heathens and Chriſtia[•] received that Manna, together with Mines and Kingdom[•] they are ſet and ſhot at the heap of rubbiſh, where the[•] ſtill worſhip the Calf; of this I have ſpoken more in th[••] book where I treated of Foſſilia.

CHAP. XII. How precious Stones and Jewels are wrought, and how God hath beſtowed bleſſings upon thoſe that work the Mynes.

[•]Ewels are wrought out of the ſubſtance of the moſt perfect, tranſparent, and nobleſt earthlineſſe, with mixture of the nobleſt Mercury, Sulphur and Salt, [••]thout any fume, or moiſt matter: are of a dry coagula[••]n, and commonly are engendred in a round form in [•]eir dwellings, lodgings, ſtocks, and paſſages, fixedly [•]und together: ſome are of a tranſparent luſtre, o[•]ers are more dark; and they have their ſeveral co[••]rs.

Not many oars are found, in which theſe noble genera[••]d bodies are brought to any perfectneſſe, neither are [〈◊〉] it ſtrikings along in a way of paſſage, here and there [•]ey have their Centers, unto which are joyned tender and [••]aculous accreſcencies, where they are guttatim lapida[•]d, falling into the hardeſt, pureſt ſtones concavities, [••]wing in ſeveral cuticles, as we ſee the animal ſtones do [•]ow. The more precious the Jewels are, the fewer there [•]e of them; and the groſſer their mixture is, the more ſtore [•]ere is found of them, which is apparent in Garnats; who [•]th hitherto ſearched into the quick ſpirits of ſuch noble [•]eatures, the Lord hath created for mans benefit?

Pygmees, or Homunculi, which in former times lived in [•]llow oars of Mynes, theſe could not want ſkill in [•]th wayes, having traverſed and travelled up and down [〈◊〉] theſe ſlippery corners and wayes The places and [•]uation of ſuch Jewels lying ſomewhat nearer unto [••]aven, in the Eaſtern Countreys, bordering on Para[•]ce, ſo there muſt needs be abounding in Gold and Jewels, and ſuch pretious vegetables, which our thoughts hard[•] may reach unto. God requireth no more of man, whom [〈◊〉] intruſteth with theſe things, but to be faithful and juſt, an[•] is an argument for us to think that for the ſame cauſe pic[••] Kings and Princes, and the old wiſe Partiarchs were gift[•] from above to bear a love to ſearch into Mine-works, a[••] did it with an uprightneſſe and judgement. Let hon[••] godly Chriſtian Miners chuſe the better part, and learn [〈◊〉] know the pearl, the ſpirit of the Lord proceeding out [〈◊〉] Gods own mouth, and let them conſider well their eterna[•] fixation, to return their love again to him that hath love them firſt, bringing all things to their ſubjection, he impa[••]eth all unto them abundantly in grace and mercy, & by th[•] innocence and merit of his only ſon, beſtoweth on the[•] temporal and eternal bleſſings, and puts more glorious o[•]naments on them, and better than ever gold, ſilver, jewe[•] and pearls were adorned withall.

CHAP. XIII. Of the eſſence of Gold, which is abundantly found, not only in the metal, but Mineral alſo, whoſe energ[•] is ſhewed moſt rarely, and a ſhort cloſing of my firſt and ſecond Part of Minerals and metals [〈◊〉] annexed.

THis Chapter is a breviary of all mineral colours & form[•] how they after an heavenly operation are daily clad i[•] the metalline prime matrix, and ſet forth in their ſever[••] works, whereas there ſhineth forth unto us the eternal lig[••] of the luſtrous Sun, the deity, of the day of joyes, and [〈◊〉] the eternal moſt fixed and faireſt Sol, as alſo of a moſt ye[•]low, pure, red, and fixed citrin colour of heavens etern[••] lightning, and the moſt glorious paradiſe of all the Sta[••] a natural created light for all creatures, beſides the bea[••] and Aurora of Mineral Earths, and of their ſubtileſt, com[•]t, and beſt binding incloſed, ſpeaking to all other white [•]inged Metals; I, Sol, of an eſſential being am Lord of [•]rds in power, might, and perfection, I overcome all, and [•]vercome and bring them into ſubjection, and none of [•]m can maſter me, but I do conquer them all, they are [•]ject to me, and to my Bei[•]g, for my Kingdome is eſta[•]hed with infinite and invincible Power and Dignity; by [〈◊〉] all metals, minerals, animals. & vegetables are ſtrength[•]ed and rectified; for I give to every one that knoweth [〈◊〉] in my green, blue, and red Nature, all what I have, [〈◊〉] all what he deſireth, I cauſe to drop down after the [•]r cardinal ſtreams of Piſon, Gihon, the nobleſt ſubſtance [〈◊〉] Mercury, in the form of a moſt pure tranſparent cryſtal[•]e water, and the moſt noble ſubſtance of Sulphur, of Hi[•]el and Phrath the cleareſt faireſt Aſtral ſalt from a Vitri[•] ſalt, which through all Mines flew upward very fruit[•]ly, and penetrates all the mineral ſtones. I alone gradu[•]e and exalt the ſilver, unto Lune I give light and luſtre in [〈◊〉] righteouſneſſe, of my vertue do ſpe k all Magi, Natu[•]iſts, and Scribes all the world over, from the Eaſt to the [•]eſt, I am the Lord over the heavenly clarified garments [•]d colours, I adorn the firmament, the weather, I cloath [•]e Rainbow after Gods will, I exalt all jewels, all ſuch [•]owths and creatures, and what I cannot inwardly walk [•]rough and reach unto in my courſe, I leave it to be per[•]cted with my friend and lover the Lune, ſhe receiveth the [••]ſt part of me, and of the ſubtileſt an abundance, the In[••]s, Hungarie, Carinthia teſtifieth the ſame, for all what is [〈◊〉] live, and is to receive a life, rejoyceth in me, and next [•]od, in none elſe, for to him honour and glory belongs [•]ely after him, I finde no higher Lord and Commander[••] for my part I do not reſt, neither do I deſire any reſt, do [•]y office readily into which my Creatour hath placed me, [〈◊◊〉] my plyableneſſe be found gloriouſly, like a vvax in [•]ones, which have by reaſon of hardneſſe fire enough, if [•]ed.

I am hid from unwiſe men, and am ready to be diſcern[•] by men of underſtanding. I am predominant abundant[•] in a well known Mineral, as alſo in Mars and Venus whic[•] are of low degrees: in them I lye hid alſo, all theſe have [〈◊〉] double ſpirit, well known unto Lune, pleaſant to her, an[•] next unto her. Hence God ſuffered Moſes to erect a braſ[•] Serpent, in the deſert after my colour, in hearkning un[••] the people, at the mount Sinai. My beſt and faireſt c[•]lour appeareth in tranſparent juyces, as vitriol, which af[•••] my condition in due time penetrateth Oars, whereby the[•] grew rich in luſt, & are train'd up in a pleaſant form con[•]ded into a greenneſſe, like ſealing wax, green like Goo[•] dung, blew like Saphir, and ſo forth, ſometimes of th[•] colour of a water flint: my red and whi[•]e colour is the beſt which are heartily wiſh'd for. I love to be kindled i[•] vitriol, and further is after deſcenſion in its green food, unto a deep red ſpirit, after whoſe laxative purging cometh that expected aqua Saturni, the true a[•]ide-Well: fro[•] whence I my ſelf and all other Metals, animals and vegetables have my off-ſpring and life. For Metals and Minerals riſe onely from thence, have their beginning and original from it, for it is that quickning water, which ordinary Myners do not know of, is known onely to Philoſophers. It worketh Minerals and Metals in ſeveral wayes, in form of taps which did skept, pure, white, compact, found like purified Suggar, in a blue ſlate-work. An extraordinary pleaſant Mineral for all colours. Salt Oars are at a farther diſtance, which by my attractive changing, are found in floats, blocks and paſſages, which in many places bring the water unto the day-light, ſo that it often is found a pure and dry Salt above ground, of glaſſie light flames, o[•] in a great froſt like unto flocks of ſnow, there ſhooteth a brittle, glaſſie light ſtone, wrought in great pieces: in the ſame order are all other Jewels according to mine inlightned heavenly ſtone, diſtributed among their operations, worths and vertues, and clarified in a moſt fix'd tranſparency, and indewed with an everlaſting ſpirit, diſtinct i[•] ſ[•••]ral colours, as Diamond, Smaragds, Carbuncles, Saphirs, [••]ies, Chryſtals, Chalcedonian, Jaſpis, Berill, Chryſolith, [••]x, Carmel, Turkois, Lazur-ſtone, Margarits, Coralls, [•]ra Lemnia, Terpentine-ſtones, and Garnats, of deeper [〈◊〉] colours, each in its heavenly colours order is tranſpa[••], and naturally is created, and preſerved in its own of[•]a: Hence it may be argued, that all theſe together with [••]d fruits ſerve for mans good, both for his body and ſpi[••] for nothing is hid from my tranſparent power, my ſplen[••] and luſtre over-ſhadoweth all theſe, and are held to [•]ir growing unto maturity: let no creatures marvel at [••]ſe ſeveral diſtinctions from whence they all ſhould [•]ne, for all have their principle from me, & frō my ſpirit, [•]ich is hidden in me, which none can dive into, ſave the [〈◊〉] creator of all things, from whom it proceeded as out [•]his Divine mouth. Thus I cloſe up my ſpeech, and my [〈◊〉] ſtartle at ſo great a myſtery, and atteſt in truth for a [•]ewell, that I am not onely the Gold and preſent Sol, but [•]e alſo ſtrength and power to all the inferies terrene ſpi[••]: for Ariſteus and Onizon is in ſubjection unto me, for I [〈◊〉] α and [〈☐〉], God be praiſed for ever.

Thus I conclude the ſecond part of my Mineral book, [•]erein I have ſhewed faithfully as much as I know, and [••]ld in my induſtry apprehend: let others do their en[•]avours alſo, let them produce their knowledge alſo, that [〈◊〉] light of the noble nature may ſtill be ſupply'd in her [••]nitude, and may not go out, whereby cauſe would be [••]en to the enemy and envious men, to be outragious [••]inſt ſuch truths. Let God ſtill and unceſſantly be im[••]tuned with prayers and thankſ-giving. For theſe ends [•]ave written theſe my two Treatiſes, and annexed the [•]nuals at the beginning (which otherwiſe needed not to [〈◊〉] done) that by earneſt prayer and thankſgiving, and con[••]ued earneſt worſhipping of God, every one might care[••]ly exerciſe himſelf therein, and be convinced in his [••]aſon, how gloriouſly almighty God hath created, or[••]ined and held forth nature, to perform her operations under ground, and to produce unto the day light form[••] their Nativities and fruits, that we may reap thereby [〈◊〉] onely our ſuſtenance, but may acknowledge Gods infin[•] mercy and goodneſſe, for which none can return ſufficie[•] thanks. However let every one do his duty, and as mo[•] as he is able to perform with his heart and tongue, pray God is ſincerity for his grace, bleſſing and wiſdom, t[•] conceive by his ſpirit of truth and righteouſneſſe of his great and wonderfull Creature, that the honour of God maybe exalted above the Heaven, and be proclaimed with infinite praiſe throughout all the World.

End of the ſecond Part.

THE THIRD PART OF BASILIUS VALENTINUS His laſt TESTAMENT, Treating of the Univerſal work in the whole World, with a perfect Declaration of the XII. Keyes: wherein is ſignificantly expreſſed the name of the great matter.

There is an Elucidation alſo of all his former writings: publiſhed for the good of the posteritie, and ſuch, that are lovers of wiſdom.

LONDON, Printed Anno Domini, MDCLVI.

THE THIRD PART IS A Declaration of the XII. Keyes.

HEre followeth the third part of my intended writings, wherein is truely ſhewed the original and prime matter of our Philoſophick ſtone, which is a perfect inſtruction to the practick part, which ſheweth the direct way to the inexhauſtible foun[•] of health, and of the abundance of riches to provide mans neceſſaries: and this is a Declaration of my former [•]itings, which is left for a love-token to all thoſe that lovers of Philoſophy.

My friend you muſt note, that by this intended work [•]ching the Minerals, I had reaſon to prefix the two parts Minerals, and Metals, and their Oars, holding it a neceſ[•]y to hold forth a light unto the ignorant, how that one [〈◊〉] it from above frameth all ſuch Oars, Metals, and Mine[•]s, taking their original under ground for to generate [•]ereby. For earth is alwayes ready and covetous to at[•]ct and to retain that ſpirit, which proceedeth from Hea[•]ns powers, which it preſenteth in proceſſe of time in a [•]mality and perfection. The manner of it hath been ſpo[•]en of ſufficiently in my former writings, which is the rea[•]n why I give onely hints of them in this place.

Note, that all things proceed from a heavenly influenc[•] elementall operation, earthly ſubſtance, from this mix[•••] ariſe the 4. Elements, water, aire, earth, which engender h[••] the help of fire, hid therein, in a warm digeſtion, produci[••] a Soul, Spirit, and Body. Theſe are the three prime pri[•]ciples, which in a coagulation come to a Mercury, Sulph[•] and Salt, theſe three being in conjunction, according to th[•] nature of the ſeed produce a perfect bodie; be it in th[•] Kingdom, either of Minerals, Animals, or Vegetables. A[•] things in the world, that are viſible and palpable, are d[••]vided into theſe three Kingdoms: the Animal which co[•]tains ſuch that have a lively breath, compoſed of fleſh an[•] bloud, as men, beaſts, worms, fiſhes, fowls. The Vegetables which contains trees, herbs, ſeeds, roots, fruits, an[•] all ſuch things that are of a growing quality, the Minera[•] contains all manner of Oars, Metals, Minerals, Marcaſ[••] Calxes, Zincks, Lobol's, all ſorts of flints, peebles, wiſmuth[•] ſtones, precious ones and others.

Animals have their ſpecial ſeed, a ſpermatick ſubſtance which after a copulation generate fleſh and blood, whic[•] iced is their prima materia, from a heavenly influence, created of God of the 4. Elements, wrought by nature, whic[•] formerly were quoted in my writings.

Vegetables alſo have their proper ſeed which God beſtowed on them, according to their ſeveral qualities an[•] forms by a heavenly and ſideral influence, and receive the[•] elemental fruitfull growing from the earth, with an orde[•] thereby to generate and augment.

Minerals and Metals alſo have their original ſeed fro[•] God, by the heavens influence in a liquid aereall ſubſtance, by a Mineral ſpirit, ſulphureous Soul and earth[•] Salt in one body joyned: of theſe I have ſpoken in my ſ[•]mer writings.

Note further, if any of theſe Metalli[•] and Mineral kind[•] ſhall be brought to a farther propagation and augmentat[•]on, it muſt firſt be reduced to its firſt ſeed and prima m[•]teria.

If you will tranſmute Metals, augment them, bring [•]em into a tincture, or Philoſophick ſtone, you muſt firſt [•]derſtand, how you may deſtroy by a ſpagyrick Art, the [•]etalline and Mineral form and ſeparate it into a Mercury, [••]lphur and Salt, theſe three muſt be purely ſeparated, and ought to their firſt principles.

This ſeparation is done in, and by a Mercurial ſpirit, ſul[•]ureous Soul and a white Salt. Theſe three in a due or[•]ring of a true manual muſt be joyned again, that they [•]ay be brought to the higheſt and moſt perfect purity.

In which conjunction muſt exactly be obſerved the [••]antity: after this conjunction the whole ſubſtance is [•]eerly a liquid ſubſtance and philoſophick water, in which [•]l the Elements, firſt the heavenly then the elemental and [••]ſly the earthly qualities are ſhut up and lye hid therein.

For the Mercurial ſpirit is cold and moiſt, the ſulphureous [•]oul is warm and dry, and this liquor is the true prima ma[•]ria, and firſt ſeed of Metals and Minerals, which by Vul[••]ns Art is brought to a pluſquam perfection, into a tranſcen[•]ent fix'd Medicine, out of which is generated the true [•]hiloſophick ſtone, and muſt be produced in that way.

Therefore obſerve and take notice, that all Metals and Minerals have onely one root, from which generally th[••]r [••]eſcent is, he that knoweth that rightly, needs not to de[••]roy Metals, to extract the ſpirit from one, the Sulphur [••]om a ſecond, and the Salt from a third. For there is a [••]earer place yet, in which theſe three, Spirit, Soul, and Bo[•]y lye hid in one thing; well known; and may with great [•]raiſe be gotten, it ſhall be nominated afterward in ſeveral [•]erms.

He that learneth to know exactly this golden ſeed, or [•]his Magnet, and ſearcheth throughly into its properties, [••]e hath then the true root of life, and may attain unto that, [••]is heart longeth for. In my former writings, as alſo in the XII. Keyes from the firſt to the laſt I ordered thus my ſtile [〈◊〉] writing, wherein I held forth unto poſterity the [•]ractick, how the great ſtone of Philoſophers, or the beſt purified gold may be made out of Sulphur and Salt, with [〈◊〉] help of the ſpirit of Mercury, which muſt be drawn from crude unmelted Minera, according to the Tenor of my fi[••] Key ſet down in a parabolical manner.

Why I laid the work of the Philoſophick ſtone upon t[••] Gold Metal, this is the reaſon, that the ſimple Laborato[••] to whom is unknown the other body, or ſubjectum, whic[•] containeth all the three principles: though it be a thi[•] well known, yet is it ſtranger to their brains, may le[••] hereby more wit and knowledge. Many of the ancie[••] Philoſophers, which lived long before me, have in the ſa[••] manner with me obtained the true univerſal ſtone of a myſteries and health, as their books, which are extant, gi[••] evidence thereof. The firſt time I took great pains a[••] made great expences, and conſumed much time about th[•] purified Gold, alledged in the firſt Key, this heavenly ſto[••] I prepared in the Cloiſter I lived in, and happily obtaine[•] it. The higheſt in heaven beſtowed his further grace [〈◊〉] bleſſing upon me, that I took into further conſideration th[•] tinging 2 animated 1 ſpirits placed and planted into their ſeveral bodies. Let no man be aſhamed to learn, to [•]dd more [〈◊〉] his learning, and to dive further into that, which was hi[•] from him, notwithſtanding his knowing wayes. Natu[••] reſerveth many things in her ſecrecie, which mens dull underſtanding and ſhortneſſe of life cannot reach unto.

Whereas God in his great goodneſſe hath beſtowed th[••] great gift upon me, for an improvement of that talent, I hav[•] imparted the ſame to my fellow Chriſtians in the ſaid XII Keyes.

Thoſe that are endued with deeper wits and knowledge, and in their hearty and carefull endeavours ſtrive further to dive in the Art, will meet in the ſame place with a more eaſie and more known matter, which almoſt w[••] named and ſet down, of an effectual quality, out of which in like manner, as the ancients before me, in their exac[••] ſpeculation and practick have in the end better known the onely ſcope and drift, which hath been practiſed ſeveral [••]s by me alſo, in a ſhorter time, and leſſe pains taking, [〈◊〉] they and I have obtained health and riches: in this [•]wn and deſpicable matter and Mineral ſubſtance is [••]d a ſulphur and tincture more effectual, and more wor[••] than the beſt Gold can afford, which is fluid and open, [••]its Mercurial ſpirit alſo, and its myſtical Salt is free and [••]n, whoſe vertues may with leſſe pains in a viſible man[••] be drawn from it.

[•]e that hath conſidered exactly my XII. Keyes, fre[••]ntly peruſing the ſame, muſt needs conceive, and that [•]rein is held forth the whole preparation of our ſtone, [〈◊〉] the beginning to the end, without any defect, yet ſo [•]t it onely ſhould be prepared of Gold fitted for it. But [〈◊〉], according to Gods ordinance in nature, have pointed at [•]old, which is much better, and requireth to be taken in[••] deep conſideration, which being unknown and ſtrange Novices, for ſome reaſons I forbear to give them any di[••]tion thereunto, with a reſolution to write and to point at [••]h matters, as themſelves are inclined to ſeek for their [••]d in them.

At the beginning of my XII. Keyes, according to the [••]nner of Philoſophers, in a parabolical way I made rela[••]n of the property and work of our ſtone and balſam, how was made by Artiſts, which as by an inheritance is come [〈◊〉] me alſo, wherein I ſpoke as much as was meet of the [•]vernment of the fire, chargeable appearance, and of the [••]iefeſt planetical colours, and the final end thereof. After [••]e accompliſhment of theſe peruſe well the XII. Keyes, for [••]ch containeth a particular work.

The firſt Key informeth you, that if you ſeek for the [••]ed in a Metalline body, as in the Gold, then before all [••]ings it muſt moſt exactly be purged from all its impure [•]eproſie, and that nothing muſt be mix'd with our Foun[•]ain, but ſuch, which is of a pure ſpermatick quality. This [•]urifying is perform'd with Antimony, which ſtands in a [•]ear relation, and affinity unto Gold, which is the reaſon, why antimonial ſulphur purgeth the Soul of Gold, gradu[•]ting the ſame to a very high degree. On the other-ſide, [〈◊〉] Gold can meliorate in a ſhort time the Soul of Antimo[•] and can bring it to a firm fixation, exalting Antimony [〈◊〉] Gold to an equal dignity and vertue, and can be broug[••] not onely unto a white Metal of Lune, but alſo to a tra[•]ſcendent Medicine for mans health, of which you ſh[••] have a further direction hereafter, when I ſhall treat in p[••]ticular of Antimony. Al[•]hough Antimony hath promiſe unto Saturn a ſociable brother-hood, becauſe Antimony qualification doth reſt in ſome ſort on the quality of Satur[•] in an equal concordance, yet after the fixation of the exalted Sulphur of Antimony, his next friend Saturn canno[•] get any prey from him, becauſe the King received him int[•] his golden Palace, and make him partaker of his triumphing Kingdom. This is the reaſon, why he can endur[•] now heat and froſt, and overcomes it, and ſtandeth with the King a Conquerour in great and tranſcendent glory.

The purifying of the Gold is perform'd thus: Laminate[•] the Gold-thinly, after a due manner, caſt it thrice through Antimony, afterward the Regulus which is ſet at the through caſting muſt be melted before the blaſt in a ſtrong fire, and driven off with Saturn, then you will finde the pureſt, faireſt, moſt luſtrous Gold, pleaſant to behold, as much as the luſtre of Sol is. This Gold is now fitted to ſurrender its innermoſt, being firſt brought from its fixedneſſe into a deſtructive form, and paſſe through the Salt-Sea of its corruptibleneſſe, is drowned therein, eſcaped again, and appeared viſibly.

The ſecond Key.

MY Friend, note, and take that into a ſerious conſideration, becauſe the chiefeſt point lyeth herein; cauſe a Balneum be made, let nothing come into it, which ſhould nor be there, that the noble ſeed of the Gold fall not into [•]eſtructive and irrecoverable oppoſition after its deſtru[•]on, and take an exact and carefull view of ſuch things, [••]ich my ſecond Key informeth thee of, namely what mat[••] you ought to take to the Kings Balneum, whereby the [•]ng is deſtroyed, and its external form broken, and its [••]defiled Soul may come forth, to this purpoſe will ſerve [••]e Dragon and the Eagle, which is Niter and Sal armonick, [••]th which after their union are made into a Aquafort, as [••]u ſhall be further informed of in my Manuals, where I [••]all treat in particular of Gold, of other Metals and Mine[••]ls, into which Balneum the King is thrown, being firſt, [〈◊〉] in the quoted place you ſhall hear, brought into an Amal[•]me of Mercury and of Sulphur, which preſently ſeizeth on [•]im, corrodeth all his members, and is diſſolved, and is [•]reſently mortified of this Salt water into a moſt ſplendent [•]ranſparent Oyl. You muſt note, that this diſſolution is [•]ot ſufficient, and the King is not minded as yet to let go [•]is Soul out of his fixed body, which you can ſee when you [•]eparate the water from the diſſolved body of the King, where you ſhall finde fixed powder of Gold, out of which you will hardly get his Soul that is therein. Therefore follow my counſel and bear the yoake, which I bore before [•]ye, and learn to know exactly in pains taking, further thus, as I ſhall inform you. Having diſſolved your Gold wholly in the ſaid water, and brought it into a pleaſant yellow Oyl, then let it ſtand well luted for a day and night in a very gentle Balneum Mariae, the feces which are ſetled, muſt be ſeparated from it, then take this pure diſſolution, put it into a well coated body, or Retort, apply a Helmet to it, with a receiver, in the beſt manner luted to it, ſet it into a ſand Capel, drive the Gold with the water over the Helmet, iterate this a third time, then abſtract the water in Balneum Mariae, you will finde a fair Gold-powder, keep this in a glaſſe for an hour in fire, let the remaining humidity be drawn from it.

The third Key.

THen take of good ſpirit of Sal-niter one part, and of d[••]phlegmed ſpirit of ordinary Salt, three parts, pour the[•] ſpirits together warm'd a little, into a body on the for[•] written Gold-powder, lute a Helmet and Receiver to i[•] drive the Gold over as formerly in ſand ſeveral times wi[••] an iterated diſtillation, the oftner the better, let the Go[••] come to be volatile more and more, and at laſt let all co[••] over. By this repeated driving over, its fixed body is divided, all its Members are torn aſunder and opened, an[•] leaveth willingly its Soul to a ſpecial Judge, of which m[•] third Key will give ſufficient information.

Note further, that after this work thoſe ſalt ſpirits mu[••] be abſtracted from the Gold, which was driven over, very gently in Balneo Mariae, let nothing of the tincture of the Gold come over, that the body ſuffer not any diminution: then take that Gold, or rather theſe Chryſtals of Gold, from which you have ſeparated the water, put it in a reverberating pan, ſet it under a Muffle, let its firſt fire be gentle for an hour, let all its corroſiveneſſe be taken away, then your powder will be of a fair ſcarlet colour, as ſubtile as ever was ſeen, put it in a clean viol, pour on it freſh ſpirit of ordinary Salt, firſt brought to a ſweetneſſe, let it ſtand in a gentle digeſtion, let that ſpirit be deeply ting'd and tranſparent, red like a Ruby, cant if off, pour on freſh, extract again, iterate the work of canting off and pouring on, till no more tincture of it appeareth, put all theſe extractions together, ſeparate them in Balneo gently from the Sulphur of Sol, then that powder is ſubtile and tender; of great worth; this matter is ſuch, which in a ſhort proceſſe tranſmuteth Lune in its tincture to the higheſt perfection, according to the direction of my XII. Keyes.

He that hath ſome knowledge herein, may make this quere: whither this extracted dry Soul and Sulphur of the [••]g be juſt that Soul, of which Philoſophers have this [•]ng: the Philoſophick work for the preparation of the [••]t precious ſtone requireth three things, viz. a wet vola[•] Mercury, or a Mercurial ſpirit, a wet volatile ſulphurous [••]l, and a dry aſtral Salt, which after its diſſolution toge[••] with the two firſt muſt be apparent and known in a [•]eriſh form; which way comes that about, becauſe in [〈◊〉] proceſſe nothing is ſpoken of any Mercurial ſpirit and [•]atile Soul, but the Soul of the King appeared in a ſub[••] form of powder? The anſwer hereunto I delay ſo long [〈◊〉] the Queriſt learns better to underſtand the diſtinction in [•]s book, and I will perform my promiſe, and ſet his [•]xious and intangled minde at liberty, which is ſo much [•]ubled about this doubt, and will deal with him as a [•]od father may deal with his ſon; in and with this ſcope, [•]herein our Maſtery lieth; have been fooled moſt of the [•]its, leading them captive in their erroneous wayes, being [••]d about in a deſart of miſlead wayes, becauſe in their [••]ppoſed deep wits, they had not conceived ſo much of the [•]anner, how all things of the world are generated, and that [•]very ſpirit muſt have a Soul, and every Soul a fit ſpirit, and [•]hat both ſpirit and Soul are ſpirits and ſpiritual, which muſt [•]ave a body, in which they may have a dwelling.

Gold and Silver, but chiefly Gold is brought to the higheſt fixedneſſe, by ſuch degrees as nature did afford, inſomuch [•]ts nature is found very hot and fiery, freed from all phlegmatick humidity, of which Lune is not ſo wholly freed, though ſhe hath obtained a ſulphur-fixed degree, and ſtayeth for the King, to warm her cold body with his hot ſeed, which concerns the particulars, and belongs unto them, which in that place ſhall be plainly demonſtrated. In Gold there is no wateriſh humidity at all, unleſſe it were reduced again into Vitriol, which would be but an uſeleſſe and unprofitable work, and would require huge expences, in caſe the Philoſophers ſtone ſhould be of Vitriol of Gold, of which there muſt be had great ſtore; indeed in that Vitriol there would be found a convenient ſpirit, which natu[••] would deſire, of a white quality, as alſo a Soul and Salt of glorious eſſence.

But what Countreys, Goods, Lands, have been dilapi[•]ted this way, I wave to diſcourſe of onely, this warning [〈◊〉] give to my Diſciples, nature having left a nearer way [〈◊〉] keep and to imitate that, that they alſo might take heed [〈◊〉] fall into ſuch extream and inex[•]ricable poverties.

The ſolar Mercury Sol, being never brought ſo far undeſtruction, neither did the ancient Philoſophers ever mak[•] uſe of that way, as being a thing clean contrary unto nature, containeth indeed an humidity, but it is a meer Elemental wateriſh humidity after its diſſolution, and good fo[•] nothing, water and other principles do not ſtand in the Elements, but the Elements reſt in the principles and ſeeds o[•] Metals, of the which I have ſpoken formerly. Therefore let none be ſo over witty, as to make our ſtone onely of dry and fully digeſted Gold: becauſe its phlegmatick humidity is entred into a dry fixedneſſe and fixed coagulation, which is not found ſo in other Metals, though they alſo are ſubject to a hard coagulation and paſſed through the fire, yet are not wholly digeſted, nor brought to a full maturity from the natural original root: which ought to be taken notice of; and be not offended at my former writings if they ſeem to run contrary againſt this.

Though I have ſhewed, that the ſpirit, Soul, and body come all from one Metalline eſſence, and muſt be prepared thus, among which I held the Gold to be the beſt, however I dealt herein as it ſeemed fit for a Philoſopher, the like the ancient Philoſophers have done before me, but I hope you took notice of my proteſtation, that I gave ſpecial cauſe thereby to your ſpeculation, to take the better notice of nature and her principle, and to conſider the original, becauſe it was not meet for me to inform all men, how the doors are bolted within, and eſpecially at that time, when I never intended to write thus plainly of theſe things, which are hid even from the beſt of men, but when my heavenly Prince commanded, at the changing of my minde, not to bury the [••]rted talent, but to do the like to thoſe, whom God [•]ks worthy, to leave it to them. One rule more I muſt [〈◊〉] to thy remembrance, of ſuch points, which formerly I [•]e ſet down, of which I ſpoke now, that you may the [•]e blame me, as if I did refuſe theſe things now, which I [•]merly wrote of.

Peruſe all ſuch which ſince the beginning of the world [••]e written of Metals, you will finde, that they were all [〈◊〉] one minde, and that I make uſe of their ſayings: that the [••]t and the laſt Metal is a Metal, becauſe the firſt Metal [••]h already obtained, and gotten the forth-going ſeed of [•]etals in a Metalline quality, which doth nothing elſe, but [••]t it goeth on unceſſantly in the Metalline generation, as [•]poke of in the firſt and ſecond part of Minerals and Me[••]s, and in this part alſo I have ſpoken of it in ſeveral [•]aces.

Many have called Gold Lead, and Lead they called Gold, [•]ecauſe it was found not onely of the ſame ponderouſneſſe, [•]ut becauſe three deep glittering ſtones have ſolely gotten [••]om this Planet their tranſcendent perfection, and many [•]ther cauſes beſides, which to relate here, would fall too [•]ong and needleſſe. And this is it which aſketh wiſdom [•]o diſtinguiſh in this and in other things, and exactly to [•]earch into Gods myſteries, and natures laid before us. But man through Adams fall being brought to a deep blindneſſe, therefore mens underſtanding are ſo eclipſed, that they can hardly conceive of this, and of other myſtical matters in nature.

The obduration being ſo great among the covetous, that for the moſt part they ſearch and dive into ſuch myſteries out of meer covetouſneſſe, pride, and ambition, made the ancient Philoſophers upon command and inſpiration of the higheſt aim at that, as to put a certain ſtay to their hands, and to write of ſuch myſteries in ſuch a manner, that unworthy men ſhould not underſtand it, and but worthy men onely in their illumination might perceive it: and writing often one thing, have mingled other among, underſta[•]ing ſtill the one and the ſame. In ſeveral places t[••] ſhewed, that the Philoſophers ſtone is, and comes from [〈◊〉] animal, others from a vegetable ſeed, and a third ſort ſai[•] it comes from a Mineral ſeed: others write that ſtone made of an animal, vegetable, and Mineral ſeed togeth[••] All this is onely underſtood of the Mineral and Metalli[•] ſeed, and conſiſteth not in any plurality of ſeeds. Hence t[••] Art grew eclipſed, inſomuch that ſcarce one among ma[•] thouſands hardly attaineth unto the knowledge thereo[•] and for that reaſon is it held for an Art, becauſe not eve[•] Booby ſhould bring it into his Beetle-head, and why ſhou[••] it? For if this Art were as common as brewing of Beer, a[••] baking of Bread, then any one may judge what good cou[••] be look'd for, would not all manner of vices be practiſe[•] publickly without any controlling.

Therefore ſuch men, which in their lofty minde a[••] meerly for Pomp and Pride, muſt be clipp'd in their wing[•] and theſe things ought not to be put into their mouth[•] things are clear enough for theſe, on whom God intend[•] the beſtowing of them.

I return now to the thing I intented, which is to teac[•] a deſirous Scholler, how to proceed further with the extracted Soul of Gold: Truly it is much to diſcover ſuch myſteries: I warn every one to make good uſe of them; and note, that if you have the purple Cloak of the King, a[•] the ſulphur of Sol, then be thankfull unto God for it, bea[•] no evil minde againſt thy neighbour, unlock your golde[•] ſeed according to the Tenor of the Key, turn it to water; for in our Art there muſt be body, Soul, and Spirit, which run together in the innermoſt root, the one layeth hold on the other, meliorateth the ſame throughout in its whole quality, inſomuch that there is a new created world and earth, which afterward is illuminated by the Soul, and is exalted into a tranſcendent efficacie.

Therefore it is requiſite that you know, how to infuſe your golden ſeed into the new body, and to bring it to a fluid ſubſtance: look about thee, and ſee where you may [•]e it: if you finde none, deſpair not, but be of good [•]fort, think upon means, and aſk counſel of god Saturn, [•]ill not let thee go without a reſolve, he will put into hand a deep glittering Minera for an offering, which in Myne is grown of the firſt matter of all Metals, if this [•]era after its preparation, which he will ſhew unto thee, [〈◊〉] into a ſtrong ſublimation, mixed with three parts of [•]e, or tyle meal, then riſeth to the righeſt mount a noble [•]imate, like little feathers, or alumen plumoſum, which due time diſſolveth into ſtrong and effectual water, [••]ch bringeth thy ſeed in a little putrefaction very ſudden[•] [•]nto the firſt volatility, if ſo be there be added to it a [〈◊〉] quantity of water, that it may be diſſolved therein, there [〈◊〉] twig with the bulk doth unite, that they are able to [•]end above the higheſt mountain, and ſtay inſeparably [••]ether a Soul and Spirit, or a Spirit and Soul.

It is requiſite, that you be ſtored with water for the body [〈◊〉] Salt to diſſolve the ſame alſo, and coagulate the ſame in[•] a new clarified body, which will never part aſunder, nei[••]r in love nor woe, becauſe they are of one nature, nati[•]y, and original, and have been ſo from the beginning. [••]r they all have their beginning and birth from the power [〈◊〉] this volatile bird. But remember well that theſe Mineral [•]irits are in other Metals alſo, and are found effectual in [••]e Mineral, from whence with more eaſe and leſſe charges [〈◊〉] may be had: the buſineſſe is onely herein, that you learn to [•]ow, what this Mercurial ſpirit, Mercurial Soul, & aſtral Salt [〈◊〉] that the one may not be taken in ſtead of the other, which [•]ould cauſe a huge errour. You will finde, that the nature [•]f the golden ſulphur conſiſteth onely in all Metals, which [••]e comprehended among the red, and have a fellow domi[•]ion with other Minerals, by reaſon of the fiery tinging [•]pirits, but the magnetick power and its quality reſteth in [•]s white Mercurial ſpirit, which bindeth the Soul, and diſ[•]olveth the body, therefore the Aſtrum of Sol is found not [•]nely in Gold, that with the addition of the ſpirit of Mercurie and the Solar Salt onely the Philoſophers ſtone c[••] be made, but may in like manner be prepared artifici[••] out of Copper and Steel, two immature Metals, both w[••] as male and female have red tinging qualities, as wel[•] Gold it ſelf, whither the ſame be taken out of one al[••] or out of both, being firſt entred into an Union. Beſi[••] this Mineral in our Mothers tongue is a Mineral, called [••]per water, and of broken, or digged Verdigreece, or Cop[••] there can be made a Vitriol, in all which is found glori[••]ly a Soul of the beſt Gold, and come well to paſſe very p[•]fitably many wayes, no Countrey clown can believe[•] Therefore note here, what you ought to obſerve, int[•] thy thoughts, and give not over, unleſſe you be come[•] far, that you know natures myſtical conjunction and her [〈◊〉] ſolution, then you will finde, what is requiſite for you [〈◊〉] know, and return thanks unto thy Creator, make uſe of[•] for his glorie, and be beneficial to the needy.

This white ſpirit is the true Mercury of Philoſophe[•] which hath been before me, and will be after me, with[••] which the Philoſophers ſtone, and the great myſtery can [〈◊〉] made, neither univerſally nor particularly, much leſſe a pa[••]cular tranſmutation. And this ſpirit is the Key to the ope[•]ing of all Metals, and their locking in again. This ſpirit is [〈◊〉] ſociable unto all Metals, becauſe they have their deſce[•] from his ſanguinity, as you heard often. For he is that tr[•] primum mobile, ſought of many thouſands, and found [〈◊〉] none, and yet all the World is greedy of it, is ſought [〈◊〉] far off, and found near at hand, he is and moveth befo[•] the eyes of all men, for if this ſpirit be fed with a Metalli[••] ſulphur and Salt, of theſe three there will be one matt[•] made, not much unlike to the Philoſophers great ſton[•] however duely muſt be proceeded in, and a true proceſ[•] from the beginning to the end muſt be obſerved: for th[••] corporal Salt muſt be diſſolved into this ſpirit, diſſolve[•] turn'd, and brought into its prima materia, as the ſpirit hi[•] ſelf is: then both theſe of one equal deſcent and birth b[•] means of fire with coagulating of the ſpirit may be gen[•]rated a third time to a firm fixation, and to a pure tranſ[•]rent white clarified body, thē after this accompliſhed al[•]o the Soul, which is diſſolved, muſt ſeek for her reſt again, [•]netrate ſuch a pure body, unite with the ſame, and riſe [〈◊〉] dwelling therein, that theſe three be permanent and [•]iding conſtantly in one body eternally clarified.

And that you may be informed, how in this manner both [•]ur diſſolved ſeeds, as the ſpirit of Mercury, and the Soul the Gold be made again fix and corporeal, note that it is [•]ne onely by the proper Salt of Sol, which in this Art is [••]led a body. Now obſerve here, that you take no hetero[•]neal thing in ſtead of it. What manner of proceſſe is here [•]ed, read my fourth Key, where the truth of it is held [••]th with ſingular examples, and proves; but you are [••]cially to obſerve, (in caſe you do not underſtand that [•]y) this plain and true information, look upon the body [〈◊〉] Gold, not as if no other benefit could be reaped of it, [•]t onely his Soul; not ſo: impute no ſuch weakneſſe unto [••]t body, but after you have drawn forth its Sulphur, there yet in it the Salt of glory, and of the triumphant victrix, [•]thout which your ſpermatick ſeed cannot be brought un[•] any coagulation. And even this Salt now, of which I [•]ade ſo long a diſcourſe, how you ought to bring it our of [〈◊〉] corporeal form through means of the ſpirit of Mercury [•]to its prima materia, is afterward turn'd again into a deeply [••]rified and exalted body.

Therefore take your Solar earth, out of which you drew [•]ur ſeedr, or the true Lions bloud, and reduce it by rever[••]rating to a fix'd powder, and ſubtile impalpable aſhes, [••]tract from thence a very ſubtile Salt, as bright as Ivory [〈◊〉] hereafter I will teach you in the Manuals, how the body [〈◊〉] Sol is anatomized by the particulars, and to bring it into Sulphur, Salt, and Mercury. Then proceed unto the pra[••]ck and conjunction, and have a care, that you be pro[•]dent therein, that at their conjunction you do not too [••]ch to the one, and too little to the other, take notice [〈◊〉] the quantity, and obſerve exactly the diviſion of the [〈1 page duplicate〉] [〈1 page duplicate〉] ſeeds, hereunto miniſter a certain meaſure, and mark [〈◊〉] ſixth Key, then proceed in the begun proceſſe, accordin[•] to the order of the ſeventh, eighth, ninth, and tenth K[••] as formerly I had informed you about it, go on with it [〈◊〉] the appearance of the Kings honour and glory, to [〈◊〉] higheſt purple garment, and pure golden piece, who is c[••]led the Triumphing Lord and Conquerour over all his ſu[•]jects, from the Eaſt to the Weſt; which if you have attain[•] unto them, return thanks to God, be fervent in praying, [〈◊〉] mindfull of the poor, be a ſtudent unto ſobriery, temp[•]rance, abſtinence, and above all unto taciturnity: for it the greateſt and moſt hainous ſin, to let unworthy m[••] know of it.

The augmentation of this heavenly ſtone, as alſo the f[••]mentation is needleſſe to be ſpoken of in that place, as b[•]ing deſcribed in my two laſt Keyes, and held forth to the fu[•] not doubting if God grants ſo much bleſſing, and imparte[•] this ſtone, the ſenſe of theſe two Keyes will be more co[•]ceived of: for no heterogeneal things muſt be broug[••] to our Metalline ſubſtance, neither at the beginning, mi[•]dle, or end, but the Mercurial ſpirit and the digeſted Me[••]cine, ſpoken of in my eleventh Key.

To be further as good as I promiſed, concerning oth[•] things, quoted in my Keyes, know ye, that no Philoſopher tied wholly unto the Metal of Gold, of which I ſpo[••] largely hitherto, and diſcloſed the true fundamentals the[•]of, and as you heard afore, the whole myſtery lieth here[••] viz. in the tinging of red fiery ſpirits of Metalline Sou[•] and all what is tinged red, and is known to have a fierc[•] ſulphur, all ſuch are kinde to the Solar Aſtrum, and wh[••] the Mercurial ſpirit is joyned with, then the proceed: [〈◊〉] may go on univerſaliter and Particulariter, that a tincture obtained from them, whereby Metals and vulgar Merc[••] can be exalted, and be ordered according to the tenor the proceſſe.

Such Souls and goldiſh Sulphurs are found moſt effect[•] in Mars and Venus, as alſo in Vitriol, and both Venus a[••] [••]ars can be reduced into a moſt effectual Vitriol, in which Metalline Vitriol afterward all the three principles, as Mer[•]ury Sulphur and Salt are found under one heaven, and with [••]tle pains and ſhort time each can be taken out of it apart, [•]s you ſhall hear, when I ſhall make further relation of the Mineral Vitriol which is digged in Hungary, of a high gra[•]ation. Now if you have wit and underſtanding, art in[•]lined and heartily deſireth to conceive of the true mean[•]ng of my Keyes, and of my other writings, thereby to un[•]o[•]k the locks of Metals for our ſtore, then you ſhould have [•]aken notice and obſerved, that in all theſe I have written [•]ot onely of the Metal of Sol, of its Sulphur and Salt, but I [•]ave interlined and mingled alſo, and made uniformal other [•]ed Metals, from whence may be had the mystical Maſterie: [•]herefore men ought to iterate often the reading of Philoſophick books, then a true ſenſe and meaning may be drawn [•]rom them, which without divine illumination cannot be [•]either, &c.

But hoping that thoſe, who are fully and really reſolved [•]o incline their hearts unto wiſdom, will give more atten[•]ion thereunto, than the other madd worldlings, for whom [•]heſe my writings were not intended: for I ſpoke as plainly [•]s ever poſſibly I could, and this kindled light ſhall further [•]e purified, ſo that true and ſincere Novices may have a [•]ull light without an eclipſe from their beginning to their [•]nding. To which end I took theſe pains to diſcloſe that, which all the World was ſilent in, and concealed it to their [•]aſt end, and buried it in ſilence to their very graves.

The ſcope I aimed at in ſo doing, was not to hunt after any [•]ain glory, but rather, that Gods gracious provident goodneſſe might be held forth unto poſterity, that the future [••]ges might become ſeeing, and ſome of the poſterities eyes might be kept open, and be helpfull unto their needy fellow Artiſt, and make them partakers of Gods graces and gifts. Though my minde be mightily perplexed, when I think [••]on what I have done, becauſe I write ſo plainly, not know[•]ng into whoſe hands after my departure theſe my writings may come: However, I hope, let them be what they will that they will remember, and lay to heart my faithfull warnings inſerted in my former and theſe preſent writings, tha[•] they deal with this book, and uſe it ſo, that they may giv[•] good accompt for it to Almighty God.

Touching further the Vitriol, I ſhould make mention o[•] it in my Manuals, where I treat and write generally of Minerals: But it being ſuch a ſingular Mineral, whoſe felio[•] whole nature doth not produce, beſides, Vitriol before a[••] others is of great affinity unto Metals, and is next ki[•] unto them, for out of all Metals there can be made a Vitriol, or Chryſtal (Chryſtal and Vitriol is taken for one) therefore I would not bereave it of its own praiſe, and put it[•] commendation too far off, but rather preferre it, as ther[•] is juſt cauſe, before other Minerals, and the firſt place, nex[•] to Metals ſhould be given unto it; for (ſetting aſide all Metals and Minerals) this is ſufficient to make the Philoſopher[•] ſtone of it, which no other in the World can do the like though ſome particulariter are a help to further that work and Antimony alone is a ſufficient Maſter hereunto, as i[•] its due place more ſhall be ſpoken of. However, none i[•] thus much dignified in its worthineſſe, that the ſaid Philoſophick ſtone could be made of it as this Vitriol is. Therefore ancient Philoſophers have concealed this Mineral a[•] much as ever they could, and would not reveal the ſame t[•] their own Children, that they ſhould not divulge it in the World, but be kept ſecret, though they publiſhed, tha[•] ſuch preparation is made out of one thing, and out of on[•] body, which hath the nature of Sol and Lune, and containeth alſo the Mercury, wherein they ſaid true enough, becauſe it is ſo. But here I muſt admoniſh you, that you ma[•] turn this argument, and ſettle your thoughts wholly upo[•] Metalline Vitriols, becauſe I intruſted you, that out of Venus and Mars there can be made an excellent Vitriol, where in are found the three principles for the generation of o[••] ſtone, but you muſt further note alſo, that nevertheleſſ[•] theſe three Metals, as Spiritus, anima, corpus are buried an[•] [••]d in a Mineral Vitriol, as in a Mineral it ſelf. Underſtand [•]is according to the diſtinct natures of Vitriol. For the [•]eſt, which according to my experience ſhewed it ſelf moſt [•]ffectual, herein is that, which is broken, and digged in [•]ungarie, of a very deep degree of tincture, not very unlike [••]to a fair blue Saphir, having very little of humidities, and [•]ther additionals, or ſtrange Oars: the oftner it is diſſolved [••]d coagulated, the more is it exalted in its deep tinging [•]olour, and is beheld with great admiration.

This high graduated Vitriol is found crude in thoſe places, [•]here Gold, Copper, Iron, is broken and digg'd, and is [•]bundantly tranſported from thence into forraign parts, in[•] much that ſometimes there is great ſcantneſſe of it in thoſe [••]rts, and elſewhere.

Though the vulgar people can afford no better name to [〈◊〉] calling it onely a Copper-water, however, ancient Philo[••]ers by reaſon of its unſpeakable vertue and dignity ex[•]ll'd it, and call'd it Vitriolum, for that reaſon, becauſe its [•]iritual Oyl containeth all the three principles of all the [•]iumphing qualities.

If you get ſuch deep graduated and well prepared Mine[••], called Vitriol, then pray to God for underſtanding and [••]ſdom for your intention, and after you have calcined it, [•]t it into a well coated Retort, drive it gently at firſt, then [••]reaſe the fire, there comes in the form of a white ſpirit of [••]riol in the manner of a horrid fume, or winde, & cometh [•]o the Receiver as long as it hath any ſuch material in it. [•]d note, that in this winde are inviſibly hid all the three [••]ciples, and come together out of that dwelling, therefore [•]s not neceſſary, to ſeek and ſearch alwayes in precious [••]ngs, becauſe by this means there is a nearer way open [••]o nature's myſteries, and is held forth to all ſuch, which [〈◊〉] able to conceive of Art and wiſdom.

Now if you ſeparate and free this expell'd ſpirit well and [•]ely, per modum diſtillation is, from its earthly humidity, [•]n in the bottom of the glaſſe you will finde the treaſure, [〈◊〉] fundamentals of all the Philoſophers, and yet known to none, which is a red Oyl, as ponderous in weight, as eve[•] any Lead, or, Gold may be, as thick as bloud, of a burning fiery quality, which is that true fluid Gold of Philoſophers which nature drove together from the three principles wherein is found a ſpirit, ſoul, and body, and is that philoſophick Gold, ſaving one, which is its diſſolution, during th[•] fire, and not ſubject to any corruptibleneſſe, elſe it flie[••] away with body and Soul, for neither water nor earth ca[••] do it any hurt, becauſe it received its firſt birth and beginning from a heavenly water, which in due time is pou[••] down upon the earth.

In theſe together driven goldiſh waters lieth hid that tr[••] bird and Eagle, the King with his heavenly Splendor together with its clarified Salt, which three you finde ſhut up i[•] this one thing and golden property, and from thence yo[•] will get all that, which you have need of for your inte[••]tion.

Therefore ſet that golden body you have obtained, whic[•] in dignity and vertue is exalted beyond all other Gold, in[••] its due and lawfull diſſolution, its due time, then the A[•]gel of the higheſt will appear unto thee, and tell thee th[••] it is the Reſolver of all the myſteries in the World, receiv[••] it with joy and keep it ſafe, for its quality is more heavenly than earthly, therefore doth it heartily incline to ſtriv[•] after that, which is above, from whence it had its Original.

If you have ſeparated this Prophet from his matter whic[•] remained, then you need not to undertake any further proceſſe, you were taught parabolically in my XII. Keyes. Fo[•] even in his remaining formal ſubſtance you may finde, an[•] expect from thence a pure immortal Soul, together vi[••] the glory of the Salt, both which are obtained by means [〈◊〉] the ſpirit, and muſt be had from thence, and no impure, o[•] contrary thing muſt be added thereunto. And it is do[•] in the ſame manner as I told you in my Keyes, with the S[••] and Salt of the Gold by the ſaturnal water, in whoſe pla[••] this ſpiritual Mercurial ſpirit might be uſed with better a[•]vantage.

Obſerve onely this difference, that the Salt muſt be drawn forth from the Mercurial body, as it hapned unto the Soul, with the ſpirit of Mercury; whereas on the other ſide the Salt of Gold muſt not be drawn forth with the ſaturnal water, becauſe it is too weak for the body of Gold, but with a water, which hath been expreſſed in the deſcription of particulars.

This diſtinction muſt be exactly obſerv'd, being of great concernment, becauſe the Salt of Vitriol is not ſo ſtrongly guarded, and is not in ſo fix'd a body, as the Gold is, but is ſtill an open body, which ſaw no coagulation as yet, nor paſſed it through any melting fire, therefore that body never came as yet to any compactneſſe, there is room left for its own ſpirit to enter into, can embrace, and unite with its like, and a ſnow white extraction of Salt may be had, whereas on the other ſide a ſharper matter muſt penetrate Gold, as you ſhall hear, when I ſhall ſpeak more of it in its due place.

Behold now, my friend, whatſoever thou art, what minde I bare towards thee, and how I am affected unto thee in my heart, the like I never durſt look for from thee. Conſider it well, how ſincerely and faithfully I diſcloſe unto thee all the locks and bonds, whereby the whole Philoſophick wiſdom is ſhut up, which hitherto never entred any more [•]houghts, much leſſe that ever it was practiſed, or diſcovered; and nothing cauſed me to do it, but onely Gods infinite mercy, my good will and love toward my Neighbour, which my Predeceſſors have not done ſo compleatly, and was put off unto me to do it.

Having thus ſeparated your three Mineral bodies, and ordered them into certain diviſions, and put away the dregs, wherein they lye hid, then look to it, that you neglect none of it, by the diminiſhing of the quantity, which would prove a great fault to your work, and keep each in its own and due quantity, otherwiſe in your work you cannot come to a happy end.

This is the thrift which ſo many have miſſed, and have written great volumes about it: for all what cometh from our Philoſophick Gold, and hath divided it ſelf into three parts, the ſame muſt be brought into one, without any loſſe and diminution, which is to enter into a new form again, and become a meliorated ſubſtance, & nothing of it muſt be done away, but onely the feces terrae in which the glorious Salt had its dwelling. Therefore do that I told you of, & joyn the ſpirit with the body, bring the body alſo into a ſpirit, diſſolve & exalt it into the higheſt ſpiritual power, i[•] that diſſolutiō the body turns to a ſpirit, & the ſpirit with the body uniteth and joyneth into one ſubſtance, that after the exchanging of all manner of colours, there cometh a white body like ſnow, tranſcending all whiteneſſes. This is the greateſt myſtery of this world, about which among the learned and ſuppoſed wits, ſuch diſputings in the world have been, that a palpable thing, and a viſible one could be reduced into its prima materia, and out of that may be made again a new clarified and better ſubſtance, by the bountifull nature leading the way thereunto.

Thus you have made and brought into the world the Queen of Honour, and the firſt born daughter of Philoſophers, which after her due perfection is called the white Elixir, of which great volumes are extant. Having brought your work thus far, then you have deſerved to be received into the Turba of Philoſophers, and you get more Art, wiſdom, and underſtanding than all Sophiſters, which prate much of theſe myſtical things, and yet know not the leaſt thing of it. Therefore it is juſt that you ſhould be preferred before them, and let them ſit below thee in ſhame and diſgrace, and in their darkneſſe of miſ-underſtanding, ſo long till nature doth enlighten them alſo.

That you may bring and lead that new Philoſophi[••] Creature by the means nature afforded, unto the higheſt perfection, after which your heart with all her endeavours doth ſtrive, then remember that neither man nor beaſ[•] without a living Soul can neither ſtir nor move: and as ma[•] here in this life, through temporal death loſeth his Soul, offering the ſame again unto the Almighty God, from whom [〈◊〉] had it firſt, into his mercy and merits of Jeſus Chriſt, [•]here after the departure of the Soul the dwelling, as the [••]dy of it, is left quite dead, which is buried in the ground, [•]here it rotteth, and muſt return unto duſt and aſhes, being [〈◊〉] duly ſtipend, which the fall of our firſt parents in Paradiſe [•]we deſerved, and from them, as by an inheritance is fall'n [•]pon us: after which putrefaction there are raiſed again on [••]e great day new and clarified bodies, and the departed [••]ul taketh her dwelling up again in that new body; after [•]at, there is no more parting of body nor ſpirit, nor ſoul: [••]t becauſe the Soul finding a clarified body, then with the [••]me ſhe maketh an everlaſting Union, which neither De[••]l nor death can deſtroy and disjoyn any more, nor bring it [•]to any corruption, but from henceforth into all eternity [•]e are and ſhall: be like unto the beſt Creatures of God, [•]hich before our mortality and departure of the ſpirit, of [••]e ſoul and the body could never be, God help and grant [•]nto us all a bleſſed reſurrection. Amen.

This high and mighty example having its foundation, [•]ot in humane thoughts, wit, or pride, or in an ungrounded [•]ating, but in the great Creatour's true word, which he [•]ath revealed unto us through his ſervant and holy Prophet Moſes, doth inform you, what you ought to do further with our new begotten Creature, that you may get a perfect [••]rth without any defect, to the praiſe of the Higheſt, the [•]ather of lights and mercy, from whom we receive all per[•]ect gifts which he graciouſly beſtoweth on his Children, [•]or which we are not able to return ſufficient thanks unto [•]im.

Now if you will proceed well in your work, then joyn [•]he new body with his Soul, which you formerly drew [••]om, that the compound in its vertue be compleat, and [•]here be apparent in the end a pluſquam perfection of it: [•]hen is begotten the Red King of all glorie in a fiery ſub[•]tance, and highly clarified body, exalted above all powers [•]pon earth, from thence ariſeth the golden fountain, he that thinketh of it is renewed in all his Members, and there is riſed wholly a new life: for the which God be praiſed for ever more.

The augmentation of this huge treaſure together with the fermentation thereof, for the tranſmutation of Metalls doubtleſſe you have taken notice of exactly afore, where I wrote of Gold how it muſt be handled, and what direction I have given you, thereunto, the ſame you muſt obſerve; for here is all one proceſſe, from the middle to the end, the beginning onely asketh alteration, by reaſon of the two diſtinct matters: for the which God be praiſed whom we beſeech, to give us his grace and bleſſing, that we may make good uſe of this treaſure, and after this life we may enter into the heavenly Kingdom.

The love to my Neighbour hath moved me to write of theſe things, which in my long experience I found to be true, following the ſteps of bountifull nature, which made me a Sooth-ſayer in natural things, and I am aſſured, that if theſe my writings are made publick after my death, and my other books ſharing in the ſame fortune, that they muſt undergo many cenſures. For ſome will extreamly condem[•] me, delivering me unto Satan, becauſe I have written ſo plainly: Others there will be, which will quite overthrow my writings, crying out to be Lies, Superſtition, and Diabolical works, the like cenſure other illuminated men before me have undergone, which they feel to this day; for men are ſo incredulous in theſe points, that ſo mighty an operation ſhould be found againſt all manner of infirmities, beſides the tranſmutation of Metals in ſo deſpicable a mat[•]er, (over which the Iron Man with his eſpouſed Wife Venus [•]ogether with the deep glittering Sol, is, and muſt have the [•]redominancie) and with incredible profit it ſhould by [•]rt [•]e brought to ſuch perfection. The Art being great, and [•]he matter ſo contemptible, it procureth the more doubt [•]nd unbelief: theſe unbelieving men I let underſtand one[•]y this notable example, whereby the eyes of thoſe, that [•]re going unto Emaus, ſhall be opened, and thereby ſhall [••]owledge that I have written no untruth, but diſcloſed [〈◊〉] a truth very plainly. And note, that the ancient Phi[••]phers endeavoured to deſcribe the preparation of the [••]e under a notion of diſtilling of wine and the ſpirit [••]eof, which in their work are almoſt like one to an[•]er. For I they taught out of the beſt wine to make a [•]it, without any ſtrange phlegme, which to this day [••]ng vulgar Artiſts muſt be, and is called the right and [•]e myſtical ſpirit of wine, whereas it may ſoon be proved, [•]r this ſuppoſed ſpirit of wine containeth much inviſible [•]midity, or phlegme, in an inſenſible manner, which is [•]hing elſe, but its vegetable Mercury: for the fiery ſpirit wine is the true fire and ſoul of the wine. Every Sulphur [••]taineth ſecretly its original and principal Mercury: Ve[•]ables in their kinde, the Animals in their kinde, and [〈◊〉] Minerals alſo after their kinde. 2. They taught how [•]s ſpirit of wine muſt be ſeparated in two diſtinct parts, [•]mely this ſpirit of wine be poured upon white calcined [••]ar, and be drawn over in a gentle diſtillation. In this [••]illation is ſeparated the ſecret and true ſpirit of wine [•]m his Vegetable Mercury, as I faithfully informed you [〈◊〉] my Manuals. From the remainng earth they taught a [•]t be drawn, to be added to the rectified ſpirit, whereby [〈◊〉] is fortified and ſtrengthned in his ſubſtance, and at laſt [•]e Philoſopher ſtone ſhould be generated! It is mightily [•]ainſt Gods ordinance, that a Vegetable ſhould produce [〈◊〉] Animal, or an Animal produce a Mineral. By way of [•]parable, the practice part is held forth under the notion [〈◊〉] this preparation. Now as they taught of the wine, ſo in [••]e manner alſo through a ſhort way our Gold can be pre[•]red, (not the uſual and common Gold) and may be diſ[•]lved, divided, ſeparated, and brought into its firſt prin[•]ple.

But you muſt note, that this diſſolution and ſeparation [•]as never deſcribed plainly by any of the ancient Philoſo[•]hers which lived before me, and knew the Magiſterium, [•]hy I do it, the love to my Neighbour hath moved me thereunto, which I bear from the Center of my heart to thoſe, which overcome this myſtery without falſhood, [〈◊〉] mingling vices with a faithfull heart, in a ſincere kn[••]ledge and real piety. In the firſt place be inform'd, [〈◊〉] our Gold (ſo much ſpoken of hitherto) muſt never be [••]ken for ſuch Gold by any of our Diſciples, which hath b[•] melted, and fully digeſted by nature, for herein ſuch [•]rour is committed, that men dilapidate all what they h[••] and looſe both the beginning and end of all their wo[•••] Although not onely from Gold, but from other Metals [〈◊〉] this Clenodium, and Jewel may be had, in the prepara[••••] of it, particulariter much profit and advantage may be [••]ten in that, which concerneth mans health, as hath be formerly told; however, without the ſpirit of Mercury [〈◊〉] Univerſal of the World to be gotten meerly from the b[••] of Sol, is impoſſible, and will be impoſſible, unleſſe▪ Creatour of all things produce another ordinance, to cha[••] and alter his Creature after his own will. But as that impoſſible, ſo it is impoſſible alſo, to deal againſt G[••] Creature in that kinde, as to finde out that wholeſom p[••]fit, which to your longing deſire you expect. You m[••] believe it for a truth, as Chriſt himſelf is, that the Philo[••]pher's ſtone would not be ſo ſtrange, rare, and unkno[••] a thing, it would be common to Kings and Potentates, [〈◊〉] God would permit to be made of Gold alone, and the th[••] Jewels of infinite fixed vertues hid therein, could be [〈◊〉] out of it!

My intent is not in this preſent Treatiſe to uſe any p[••]lixity in writing; thoſe that are not quite blinde, and ha[••] their eyes open, have enough already to attain unto [〈◊〉] knowledge, and command both his minde and hands, [•]o to paſſe by the weightieſt, and eſteem high things that i[•] unworthy, and to fall with the blinde into the pit, ma[••] for them. Thoſe that are real in their deſire for to atta[•••] unto art and wiſdom, and intend to propagate the ſa[••] without ſophiſtication, and deſire in reality to glorie i[•] that honourable truth, you may ſhew a real proof of it i[•] this manner.

[〈◊〉] tell thee really for the higheſt truth, that you may diſ[•]e our Gold, naturally driven together, in a ſhort way, to [•]ng it to its prima materia, and is done thus: take the [•]wn Mineral Spirit, in which our Mercury, Sulphur, and [〈◊〉] is ſhut up, containing that Philoſophick myſtical Gold, [••]r that guttatim upon white calcined tartar, theſe two [••]trary qualified matters will be tiſſing, let them ſtay toge[•]r till their contention and ſtrife be ended, and our Gold [•]e it ſelf inviſible in the vegetable Salt acre, or in the bel[•] of tartar: lute a Helmet to it, diſtil it at firſt gently in [•]neo, then increaſe your fire, then Hermes his volatile [〈◊〉] will fly away from our Gold in that ſublimation, and ſit [〈◊〉] the higheſt pinnacles of the Temple, looking about [•]ich way to betake himſelf, but ſoon is catch'd in the [•]ceiver, which muſt be pure and very dry: when you ſee [•]t his flight is but ſlow, then take the glaſſe out of the [••]ny, ſet it in aſhes, increaſe your fire, then will ſhe fly [•]re nimbly, keep that fire ſo long till all is come over; [•]d her brother the Red Dragon, hiding his redneſſe under a [〈◊〉] colour in a whitiſh fume, will begin to follow after his [•]ing brother. Then ceaſe with the fire, the drops being fall'n from the Helmet, take it off, that which you [•]de in the Receiver, you are to keep as a treaſure of my[•]ries. In this manner you have gotten wiſdom, under[••]nding, and ſkill, the fundamentals alſo, and deſires of Phi[••]ophers: by this ſhort witty proof you learn and get that [•]owledge, how this water may be ſought after, found, and [••]ted on, and is not to be eſteemed a common water, but is [•]at real infallible heavenly water, of which at the begin[••]g I have written, and repeated the ſame the oftner; [•]hich in a ſpiritual manner from the heavens power is [•]ured down upon earth, beginneth and accompliſheth [•]e generation of all Metals, for that reaſon the ancient Phi[••]ophers call'd this water Mercury, but I call it the Spirit of [•]ercury.

Now if you proceed right in this work, and you know [•]hat food and what drink [•]o give to this bird, viz. Sulphur and Salt of Metal, then you may attain unto the end of [〈◊〉] great work, which is almoſt like unto the Philoſoph[••] great work, and you may get profit infinitely partitu[•]a[••] many wayes; you muſt note, that this is not the true Phi[••]ſophick diſſolution, but onely one, which particula[••] performeth ſtrange matters, a[•]d is a ſpeculum, in which [〈◊〉] Mercury, our Sol, and our Lune is ſeen bleaking, which i[•] preſent confuting of unbelieving Thomaſſes, diſcover[••] the blindneſſe of ignorantment. The diſſolution of t[•] three principles I have deſcribed unto you formerly, whi[••] is of a ſlower pace, requiring time and patience, and [〈◊〉] exact attention to make, or bring three into one, which w[•] is done in it ſelf per ſe, without mixing of any heterogene[•] matter, onely that which lyeth hid in it, muſt do it. F[•] the Fountain of ſalvation is the illumination of the So[••] and the Salt of the clarified body, are all in that one thin[•] exiſtent from one, two, or three, which muſt be brought a[••] reduced to one, which is the golden vertue of all Metals, [•]alted above all powers, together with the Eagle and whi[•] body, which are no where together, but onely in this one found, and in that which is next kin unto it, which kno[•]ing Philoſophers alwayes held in great eſteem, but ignora[••] and blinde men deſpiſed and diſgraced the ſame. But tho[••] whoſe eyes are once opened, love to ſtick unto truth, co[••] to hide the matter from wicked men, and ſtudy day a[••] night how the ignorant might be kept from it. Thus I clo[•] this third part.

And before I begin the fourth part, concerning Partic[•]laria, I muſt needs ſpeak ſomething of the Philoſophers V[•]triol, Sulphur, and Magnet.

My friend, you muſt note, that this deſcription I ma[••] now of the eſſence of Vitriol reſteth onely upon try[••] made, the victorious triumph of the higheſt wiſdom c[••] by inheritance from the moſt ancient Philoſophers un[•] me, and comes now unto thee, wherein experimenta[•] it's found, that there is a ſubterranean Mineral Salt, call[•] Vitriol, which for dying of Cloaths, and many other uſ[•] [〈◊〉] cannot well poſſibly be without it, for it carrieth [•]nd eateth through, by reaſon of its ſharpneſſe, [••]h is diſtinct from other Salts, in reſpect of their qua[••]: for the Mineral of this Salt is ſtrange, of a very [•]nd fiery quality, as apparent in its ſpirit, and con[••]th a twofold ſpirit, which is miraculum naturae, [•]is not found the like in other Salts; and this Salt is a [••]aph[•]odit among other Salts, it is white and red, even [••]u will have it, it hath an extraordinary medicinal qua[••] performing things in an incredible manner. This Salt [••]ineth a combuſtible Sulphur, which is not in other [〈◊〉]. Therefore in Metalline affairs touching their tranſ[••]tion, it performeth more than others, becauſe it help-[•]ot onely to open ſome, but helpeth the generation of [••]rs, by reaſon of its innate heat. When Vitriol is ſepa[••] by means of fire, then its ſpirit at firſt comes in a [••]e form, after that there comes from its earth a ſpirit of [〈◊〉] condition, ſtaying in the earth, the Salt being united [〈◊〉] its expell'd Mercury and Sulphur, can ſharpen them: [•]emainder that ſtayeth behinde, is a dead earth, of no [••]acie. Let this ſuffice for your learning, and conſider [〈◊〉] what the Creator holds forth unto thee, in nature by [•]ow kindled ternarie: for as you finde in Vitriols body [〈◊〉] diſtinct things, as Sp[•]rit, Oyl, and Salt, even ſo you expect from its own ſpirit again (which without the [••]ling of its Oyl, is driven from its matter) three diſtinct [••]gs, even as you did formerly from the body of Vitriol, [••]h deſerveth very well the name of Speculum ſapientiae [••]ae, held forth purpoſely to man to view himſelf. For [〈◊〉] can ſeparate this ſpirit of Vitriol as it ought, then that [•]ds again unto you three principles, out of which onely, out any other addition, ſince the beginning of the [•]d the Philoſophers ſtone hath been made: from that have to expect again a ſpirit of a white form, an Oyl of [•]uality, after theſe two a Chriſtalline Salt, theſe three [••]g duely joyned in their perfection, generate no leſſe [〈◊〉] the Philoſophers great ſtone: for that white ſpirit is meerly the Philoſophers Mercury, the red Oyl is the S[••] and the Salt is that true Magnetick body, as I told you [〈◊〉] merly. As from the ſpirit of Vitriol is brought to light [•]red and white tincture, ſo from its Oyl there is made V[••] her tincture, and in the Center they are much diſtinct a[••]der, though they dwell in one body, poſſeſſing one lo[••] it matters not, for the will of the Creator was ſo, to h[••] that myſtery from unworthy men: obſerve and conſide[•] well, if ſo be you intend to be a true follower of Ph[••]ſophers: In this knowledge lyeth hid an irrecov[•]able errour, worldly wits cannot conceive of it, [〈◊〉] the ſpirit of Vitriol, and the remaining Oyl ſhould be of great diſtinction in the vertue. Touching their proper[••] the ſpirit being well diſſolved, and brought into its th[••] principles, Gold and Silver onely can be made by it, and [〈◊〉] of its Oyl onely Copper, which will be apparent in a pr[•]made. The condition of the ſpirit of Vitriol, and its maining Oyl is this, that where there is Copper and Iron, [〈◊〉] Solar ſeed commonly is not far from it, and again wh[••] there is ſeed of Gold at hand, Copper and Iron is not [〈◊〉] from it, by reaſon of its attractive Magnetick quality [〈◊〉] love, which they, as tinging ſpirits in a viſible manner c[••]tinually bear one to another. Therefore Venus and M[••] are penetrated & ringed with the ſuperabounding tinct[•] of Gold, and in them there is found much more the [〈◊〉] of the red tincture, than in Gold it ſelf, as I made further [•]lation of it in my other backs, unto which there belong [〈◊〉] alſo the Mineral of Vitriol, which goeth beyond theſe▪ many degrees, becauſe its ſpirit is meer Gold and rubed[•] crude indigeſted tincture, and in very truth (as God h[••]ſelf is) is indeed not found otherwiſe.

But this ſpirit, as you heard, muſt be divided into [••]tain diſtinct parts, as into a ſpirit, ſoul, and body, the ſp[••] is the Philoſophick water, which though viſibly parted ſunder, yet can never be ſeparated radically, (becauſe their unavoidable affinity they bear, and have one to [〈◊〉] other) as it appeareth plainly, when afterward they [〈◊〉] ioyned, the one in their mixture embraceth the other, even [〈◊〉] Magnet draweth Iron, but in a meliorated eſſence, bet[••] than they had before their diſſolution. This is the [•]ift, beginning, middle, and end of the total Philoſophick [••]ſdom, affording riches and health, and a long life; it may [•]her be ſaid, and really proved, that this ſpirit is the eſ[•]ce of Vitriol, becauſe this Spirit and Oyl do differ ſo [••]ch, and were never united radically, becauſe the Oyl [••]meth after the ſpirit, each can be received apart; This [••]y ſpirit may rather and more fitly be called an eſſence, [••]phur, and ſubſtance of Gold, and it is ſo, though he lyeth [•]king in Vitriol as a ſpirit.

This golden water, or ſpirit drawn from Vitriol, contains [•]in a ſulphur and Magnet, its ſulphur is the anima, an in[••]buſtible fire, the Magnet is its own Salt, which in the [••]junction attracteth its Sulphur and Mercury, uniteth [••]h the ſame, and are inſeparable Companions. Firſt in [•]entle heat is diſſolved the undigeſted Mercurial ſpirit, [〈◊〉] this is further extracted, after a Magnetick quality, the [••]phurous anima, in that earth ſticketh the Salt, which is tracted alſo in a Magnetick way by the Mercurial ſpirit, ſtill the one is a Magnet unto the other, bearing a Mag[••]ick love one to another, as ſuch things, where the laſt [••]ether with the medium is drawn forth by the firſt, and [〈◊〉] thereby generated, and thus take their beginning. In [•]s ſeparation and diſſolution the ſpirit, or Mercury is the [•]ſt Magnet, ſhewing its Magnetick vertue toward the ſul[••] and Soul, which he quaſi Magnes attracteth, this ſpirit [••]modum diſtillationis being abſolved and freed, ſheweth a[••] its Magnetick power toward the ſalt, which he attract[••] from the dead earth; after the ſpirit is ſeparated from it, [〈◊〉] the Salt appeareth in its purity: if that proceſſe be ther followed, an[•] after a true order and meaſure the [••]unction be undertaken, and the Spirit and Salt be ſet [••]ther into the Philoſophick furnace, then it appears [〈◊〉], how the heavenly ſpirit ſtriveth in a Magnetick way [••]tract its own Salt, it diſſolveth the ſame within XL. dayes, bringeth it to an uniform water with it ſ[•]lf, even the Salt hath been before its coagulation. In that deſt[••]ction and diſſolution appeareth the hugeſt blackneſſe a[••] Eclipſe, and darkneſſe of the earth, that ever w[••] ſeen. But in the exchange thereof a bright glitteri[••] whi[•]eneſſe appearing, then the caſe is altered, and [〈◊〉] diſſolved fluid wateriſh Salt turns into a Magnet; for that diſſolution it layeth hold on its own ſpirit, which is t[••] ſpirit of Mercury, attracteth the ſame powerfully like Magnet, hiding it under a form of a dry clear body, brin[•]ing the ſame by way of uniting into a deep coagulation a[•] firm fixedneſſe by means of a continued fire, and the cert[••] degrees thereof.

The King with the white Crown being thus generate[•] and by exiceation of all humidities being brought to a fix[•] ſtate, then is it nothing elſe, but earth and water, thou[•] the other Elements be hid therein inſenſibly; howev[••] both theſe keep the predominance, though the ſpirit [〈◊〉] to earth, and can never be ſeen in a watery form, and t[••] double new born body abideth ſtill in its Magnetick qua[•]ty; for as ſoon as his departed Soul is reſtored after white fixation, then like a Magnet he attracteth the ſ[•••] again, uniteth with it, then are they exalted to their high[••] tincture and rubedo, with a bright tranſparentneſſe a[••] clarity. Thus in brief you have a ſhort relation of Vitrio[•] Sulphur, and Magnet. Pray to God for grace, that you m[••] conceive aright of it, put it then to good uſe, and be min[•]full of the poor and needy.

At the cloſing I annect this briefly, to hold forth u[•] to you a natural proof, that you preſently fling and thro[•] down the Sophiſter, and take his Scepter from him. No[•] that from all Metals, eſpecially from Mars and Venus, whi[••] are very hard and almoſt fixed Metals, of each apart can made a V[•]triol; this is the reduction of a Metal into a Mi[••]ral: for Minerals grow to Metals, and Metals were at fi[•] Minerals, and ſo Minerals are proxima materia of Metals, b[•] not prima: from theſe vitriol may be made, other reduc[•] [〈◊〉], namely a ſpirit is drawn from them by the vertue of [〈◊〉]

This ſpirit being driven over, then there is again a re[•]ion of a Mineral into its ſpiritual eſſence, and each [•]it in its reduction keepeth a Metalline property: but ſpirit is not the prima materia. Who is now ſo groſſe abſurd, that ſhould not be able to conceive further believe, that by theſe reductions from one to the other [••]re be a way to prima materia, and at laſt to the ſeed it [〈◊〉], both of Metals and Minerals: though there be no ne[••]ry to deſtroy Metals, becauſe their ſeed in the Minerals [••]und openly fixed.

O good God, what do theſe ignorant men think! is not [〈◊〉] a very eaſie, and Childrens like labour? the one begets other, and the one cometh from the other, is there not [•]ad bak'd of Corn, upon diſtinct works? But the World [•]linde and will be ſo to the end of it: Thus much at this [•]e, and commit thee to the protection of the Higheſt.

End of the third Part.

THE [•]OURTH PART OF BASILIUS VALENTINUS His laſt TESTAMENT, [•]he Manuals wherein he treateth, how Metals and fitting Minerals may Particulariter be brought to their highest preparation.

LONDON, Printed Anno Domini, MDCLVI.

THE FOURTH PART,

Of [•]articulars from the ſeven Metals, how they may be prepared with profit. Firſt of the Sulphur of Sol, whereby Lune is tinged into good Gold.

TAke of pure Gold, which is three times caſt through Antimony, and of well purged Mercury vive, being preſt through leather, ſix parts, make of it an Amalgame, to the quantity of this Amalgame grinde twice as much of common Sulphur, let it evaporate [•]n a broad pan in a gentle heat under a Muffle, ſtirring it [•]ll with an Iron hook, let the fire be moderate, yt the mat[•]er do not melt together, this Gold calx muſt be brought to [•]e colour of a Mary-gold flower, then is it right; then take [•]e part of Salpeter, one part of Salarmonie, half a part of [••]inded peebles, draw a water from it. Note, this water [•]uſt be drawn warily and exactly: To draw it after the [•]ommon way will not do it; he that is uſed to Chymick pre[•]rations, knows what he hath to do; And note, you muſt [•]ave a ſtrong ſtone Retort, which muſt be coated, to hold [•]he ſpirits cloſely: its upper part muſt have a pipe, upward [•]f half a ſpans length, its wideneſſe muſt bear two fingers [•]readth, it muſt be ſet firſt in a diſtilling furnace, which muſt be open above, that the upper pipe may ſtand out di[•]ectly, apply a large receiver, lute it well: let your firſt fire [•]e gentle, then increaſe it that the Retort look glowing hot: put a ſpoonfull of this ground matter in at the pipe, cloſe th[•] pipe ſuddenly with a wet clout, the ſpirits come ruſhing[••] into the receiver: theſe ſpirits being ſetled, then carry i[•] another ſpoon-full: in this manner you proceed till yo[•] have diſtilled all. At laſt give time to the ſpirits to be ſe[•]led, to turn into water: this water is a helliſh diſſolvin[•] ſtrong one, which diſſolveth inſtantly prepared Gold cal[••] and laminated Gold, into a thick ſolution, of which I mad[•] mention above in the third part. This is that water, which mentioned in my ſecond Key, which diſſolveth not onely Gold, but bringeth it to a volatility, carrying it over th[•] helmet, whoſe anima may afterward be drawn from its to[••] body.

Note, the ſpirit of common Salt effecteth the ſame, i[•] drawn in that manner, which I ſhall ſpeak of afterward. [〈◊〉] three parts of this Salt-ſpirit be taken, and one part of ſpiritus nitri, it is ſtronger than Salarmonick water: and is better becauſe it is not ſo corroſive, diſſolveth Gold the ſooner carrieth it over the helmet, maketh it volatile and fit to pa[••] with its ſoul; you have your choice to uſe which you think[•] beſt, and may eaſier be prepared, thus: Take one part o[••] the prepared Gold calx, and three parts of the water, which you make choice of, put it into a body, lute a helmet to it, ſet it in warm aſhes, let it diſſolve, that which is not diſſolved, pour three times as much water upon, that all diſſolve: let it cool, ſeparate the feces, put the ſolution into a body, lute a helmet to it, let it ſtand in a gentle heat day and night to Balneo Mariae, if more feces be ſetled, ſeparate them, digeſt them again in the Balmy nine dayes and nights, then abſtract the water gently to a ſpiſſitude, like unto an Oyl in the bottom; this abſtracted water muſt be poured on that ſpiſſitude: this muſt be iterated often, that it grow weary and weak: remember you lute well at all times. To the oleity on the bottom pour freſh water, which was not yet uſed, digeſt day and night firmly cloſed, then ſet it in a ſand Capel, diſtil the water from it to a thickneſſe: make the abſtracted water warm, put it into a body, lute it, [••]ſtract it, iterate this work, and make all the Gold come [•]er the helmet.

Note, at the next drawing always the fire muſt have one [•]gree more: the Gold being come over into the water, [•]ſtract the water gently from it in the Balmy to the oleity, [〈◊〉] the glaſſe into a cold place, there will ſhoot tranſparent [•]yſtals, theſe are the vitriol of Gold, pour the water [•]om it, diſtil it again unto an olei[•]y, ſet it by for ſhooting, [•]ore Chryſtals will ſhoot, iterate it as long as any do ſhoot. [•]iſſolve theſe Cryſtals in diſtilled water, put to it of purged [•]ercury three times as much, ſhake it about, many colours [•]ill appear, an Amalgame falls to the ground, the water [•]eareth up, evaporate the Amalgame gently under a muffle, [•]irring it ſtill, with a wyar, at laſt you get a purple co[••]ured powder, ſcarlet like, it diſſolveth in Vinegar into a [•]loud-redneſſe. Extract its anima with prepared ſpirit of [•]ine, mixed with the ſpirit of common Salt, entred toge[•]her into a ſweetneſſe; This tincture of Sol is like a tranſpa[•]ent Rubie, leaving a white body behinde.

Note, without information you cannot attain unto the [•]pirit of Salt, if it be not ſweet, it hath no extractive power; to the attaining hereof, obſerve theſe following manuals: [•]ake good ſpirit of Salt, dephlegmed exactly, driven forth, in that manner, as you ſhall hear anon.

Take one part of it, add half a part to it of the beſt ſpirit of wine, which muſt not have any phlegme, but muſt be a meer Sulphur of wine, and muſt be prepared in that manner, as I ſhall tell you anon: lute a helmet to it, draw it over ſtrongly, leave nothing behinde; to the abſtracted put more ſpirit of wine, draw it over, ſomewhat ſtronger than you did the firſt time, weigh it, put a third time more to it, draw it over again, well luted, putrifie this for half a moneth, or ſo long as it be ſweet, and it is done in Balmy very gently: thus the ſpirit of Wine and Salt is prepared, loſt its corroſity, and is fit for extracting.

Take the Ruby-[•]ed prepared Gold powder, put of this prepared ſpirit of Salt and Wine, ſo much that it ſtand two fingers breadth over it, ſet it in a gentle heat, the ſpirit w[••] be red ting'd, this red ſpirit muſt be canted off, pour [〈◊〉] new ſpirit on that, which remained on the bottom, ſet [••]luted into a gentle heat, let it be tinged deeply, then cant [〈◊〉] off, this work muſt be iterated, that the body of Sol remain on the bottom like calx vive, which keep, for therei[•] ſticketh yet more of the Salt of Gold, which is effectual i[•] wayes of Medicine, as ſhall be ſhowed anon.

Thoſe ring'd ſpirits put together, abſtract them gently i[•] Balneo, there will be left a red ſubtile powder in the bottom, which is the true tinctur animated, or Sulphur of Gold, dulcifie it with diſtill'd rain water, it will be very ſubtil, tender, and fair. Take this extracted Sulphur of Sol, as you were taught, and as much of Sulphur of Mars, as you ſhall hear anon, when I treat of Mars: grinde them together, put it in a pure glaſſe, pour on it ſo much of ſpirit of Mercury, let it ſtand over it two fingers breadth, that the matter in it may be diſſolved, ſee to it that all diſſolve into a Ruby-like Gold water, joyntly drive it over, then is it one, and were at firſt of one ſtem, keep it well, that nothing of it evaporate, put it to ſeparated ſilver calx, being precipitated with pure Salt, and afterward well edulcorated, and dried, fix it together in a fiery fixation, that it ſublime no more: then take it forth and melt it in a windoven, let it ſtream well, then you have united Bride and Bridegroom, and you brought them unto Gold of a high degree: Be thankfull to God for it as long as you live.

I ſhould give further direction, how this extracted Soul of Sol ſhould be further proceeded in, and to make it potable, which miniſtreth great ſtrength, and continued health unto man. But it belonging unto Medicinals, I delay it to that place, where further mention ſhall be made of.

At this preſent I will ſpeak onely how the white Solar body ſhall further be anatomized, and that by Art its Mercurie current, and its Salt may be obtained. The proceſſe of it is thus:

Take the white body of Sol, from which you have drawn [•]nima, reverberate it gently for half an hour, let it be[•]e corporeal, then pour on it well rectified hony-water, [••]h is corroſive, extract its Salt in a gentle heat, it is [•]e in ten dayes ſpace, the Salt being all extracted, ab[•]ct the water from it in Balneo, edulcorate the Salt with [••]ted diſtillings, with common diſtilled water, clarifie it [•]n ſpirit of wine, then you have Sal auri, of wch you ſhall [•]r more in its due place, of the good qualities it hath by [•]y of Medicine upon man. On the remaining matter [••]r ſpirit of Tartar, of which in another place, becauſe it [•]ongeth unto Medicinals: digeſt theſe for a moneths [••]e, drive it through a glaſſe, Retort into cold water, then [•]n have quick Mercury of Sol, many ſtrive to get it, but [〈◊〉] vain.

There is one myſtery more in Nature, that the white [•]lar body having once loſt its anima, may be ting'd again, [•]nd brought to be pure Gold, which myſtery is revealed to [••]ry few: I ſhall give a hint of it, that you may not grum[••]e at me to have concealed any point in the work.

I hope you have conſidered and taken to heart, what I [•]ave entruſted you withall about the univerſal ſtone of Philoſophers in my third part, namely how it reſteth meer[•]y upon the white ſpirit of Vitriol, and how that all three principles are found onely in this ſpirit, and how you are [•]o proceed in, and to bring each into its certain ſtare and [•]order.

Take the Philoſophick Sulphur, which in order is the ſecond principle, and is extracted with the ſpirit of Mercu[•]ry, pour it in the white body of the King, digeſt it for a moneth in a gentle Balmy, then fix it in aſhes, and at laſt in ſand, that the brown powder may appear, then melt it wth a fluxing powder made of Saturn, then will it be malleable and fair Gold, as it was formerly, in colour and vertue nothing defective.

But note, the Salt muſt not be taken from the Solar body, of which I made mention formerly, in a repetition of the xii. Key, where you may read of. There may be p[•]pared yet in another manner a tranſparent Vitriol, [〈◊〉] Gold in the following manner.

Take good Aqua Regis made with Sal armoniac, 1. po[••] id eſt, diſſolve four ounces of Salmiac in Aquafort, then y[•] have a ſtrong Aqua Regis, diſtil and rectifie it often o[•] the helmet, let no feces ſtay behinde, let all laſcends [〈◊〉] tranſparent. Then take thinly beaten Gold rolls, caſt f[•]merly through Antimonie, put them into a body, pour o[••] Aqua Regis, let it diſſolve as much as it will, or as you [〈◊〉] diſſolve in it: having diſſolved all the Gold, pour into ſo[••] Oyl of Tartar, or Salt of Tartar diſſolved in fountain wa[••] it begins to tiſſe, having done tiſſing, then pour in again [〈◊〉] the Oyl, do it ſo long that all the diſſolved Gold be fall'n [〈◊〉] the bottom, and nothing more of it precipitate, & the Aq[••] Regis clear up. This being done, then cant off the Aq[••] Regis from the Gold calx, edulcorate it with common water, eight, ten, or twelve times: the Gold calx being we[•] ſetled, cant off that water, and dry the Gold calx in th[•] aire, where the Sun doth not ſhine, do it not over a fire, for as ſoon as it feeleth the leaſt heat it kindleth, and grea[•] damage is done, for it would fly away forcibly, that no man could ſtay it. This powder being ready alſo, then tak[•] ſtrong Vinegar, pour it upon, boyl it continually over the fire in a good quantity of Vinegar, ſtill ſtirring it, that it may not ſtick unto the bottom, for xxiv. hours together, then the fulminating quality is taken from it: be carefull you do not endanger your ſelf: cant off that Vinegar, dulcifie the powder, and dry it. This powder may be driven per alembicum without any corroſive, bloud-red, tranſparent and fair, which is ſtrange, and uniteth willingly with the ſpirit of wine, and by means of coagulation may be brought to a Solar body.

Do not ſpeak much of it to the vulgar: if you receive any benefit by and from my plain and open information, be thus minded, to keep theſe myſteries ſecret ſtill to thy dying day, and make no ſhew of it, elſe thou art naked and lyeſt open to the Devils temptations in all thy wayes: [•]efore pray give attention to what I ſhall tell thee, for I impart unto thee this Arcanum alſo, and entruſt thee [〈◊〉] thy conſcience with it.

Take good ſpirit of wine being brought to the higheſt [••]ee, let fall into it ſome drops of ſpirit of Tartar, then [〈◊〉] thy Gold powder, put to it three times as much of the [〈◊〉] and ſubtileſt common flowers of ſulphur, grinde theſe [•]ether, ſet it on a flat pan under a muffle, give to it a [•]tle fire, let the Gold powder be in a glowing heat, put [•]hus glowing into the ſpirit of wine, cant off the ſpirit of [••]e, dry the powder againſt a heat, it will be porous. [•]ng dried, then add to it again three parts of flores ſul[••]ris, let them evaporate under a muffle, neal the remain[•] powder in a ſtrong heat, and put it in ſpirit of wine: [••]ate this work ſix times, at laſt this Gold powder will be [•]oft and porous as firm butter, dry it gently, becauſe it [•]lteth eaſily. Then take a coated body, which in its [••]der part hath a pipe, lute a helmet to it, apply a re[••]ver, ſet it freely in a ſtrong ſand Capel, let your firſt fire [〈◊〉] gentle, then increaſe it, let the body be almoſt in a [••]wing heat, then put in the ſoftned well dried Gold [••]wder, being made warm, behinde at the hollow pipe, [•]ot it in nimbly, there come inſtantly red drops into the [••]lmet, keep the fire in this degree ſo long, till nothing [••]re aſcendeth, and no more drops fall into the Receiver. [•]ote, in the Receiver there muſt be of the beſt ſpirit of [•]ine, into which the drops of Gold are to fall.

Then take this ſpirit of wine, into which the Gold drops [•]d fall, put it in a pellican, ſeal it Hermetice, circulate it [〈◊〉] a moneth, it turneth then to a bloud-red ſtone, which [•]elreth in the fire like Wax, beat it ſmall, grinde among [〈◊〉] Lunar calx, melt them together in a ſtrong pot, being [•]own cold, put it in aquafort, there precipitateth a black [•]lx, melt it, then you finde much good Gold, as [••]e Gold powder and the ſpirit of wine together with the [•]oyery, as the added Lunar calx did weigh, but one moyety of the Lunar calx is not ting'd, the other is as good a[•] was to be uſed. If you hit this rightly, then be thankf[••] to God: if not, do not blame me, I could not make plainet unto thee.

Now if you will make this Vitriol, then take the pow[••] formerly made, boyled in Vinegar, pour on it good ſpi[••] of common Sal[•], mingled with Salpeter water, and the ſ[••]rit of Salt of Niter, this Salpeter water is made, as aq[••] Tartari is made with Salpeter; Gold is diſſolved in t[••] water: which being done, then abſtract the water to[•] thickneſſe, ſet it in a Cellar, then there ſhooteth a pure [••]triol of Sal, the water which ſtayeth with t e Vitriol m[••] be canted off, diſtil it again to a ſpiſſitude, ſet it in the C[•]lar, more of the Vitriols will ſhoot, iterate this work [〈◊〉] long as any Vitriol ſhooteth. If you are minded to ma[••] the Philoſophers ſtone out of Solar Vitriol, as ſome pha[•]taſtick men endeavor in that way, then be firſt acquaint[••] and aſk counſel of thy purſe, and prepare ten, or twel[••] pound of this Vitriol, then you may perform the work ve[••] well, and the Hungarian Vitriol, and others digged out [〈◊〉] Mines will permit thee to do it. You may extract fro[•] this Vitriol alſo its Sulphur and Sal[•], with ſpirrt of win[•] which being all eaſie work, it is needleſſe to deſcribe it.

Now followeth the Particular of Lune, and of the extraction of its Sulphur and Salt.

TAke of calx vive, and common Salt, ana, neal the[•] together in a Wind-oven, then extract the Salt pure[•] from the calx with warm water, coagulate it again, put to [〈◊〉] an equal quantity of new calx, neal it, extract the Salt fro[•] it, iterate it three times, then is the Salt prepared.

Then take the prepared Lunar calx, ſtratifie the calx wit[•] prepared Salt in a glaſſe Viol, pour ſtrong water on it, mad[•] of equal quantities of Vitriol and Salpeter, abſtract th[•] aqu[•]fort from it, iterated a third time, at laſt drive it [••]ngly, let the matter well melt in the glaſſe, then t[•]ke [•]orth, your Lune is tranſparent and blewiſh, like unto an [〈◊〉] a marine. Having brought Lune thus far, then pour on [••]rong diſtilled Vinegar, ſet it in a w[•]rm place, the Vine[••] is ting'd with a tranſparent blue, like a Saphir, and at[•]cteth the tincture of Lune, being ſeparated from the Salt, which comes from Lune goeth again into the Vinegar, [••]ich muſt be done by edulcora ion, then you will finde [〈◊〉] Sulphur of Lune fair and clear. Take one part of this [••]lphur of Lune, one half part of the extracted Sulphur of [〈◊〉], ſix parts of the ſpirit of Mercurie, joyn all theſe in a [••]dy, lute it well, ſet it in a gentle hear, in digeſtion, that [••]uor will turn to a red brown colour; having all driven [••]er the helmet, and nothing ſtand in the bottom, then [•]ur it on the matter remaining of the ſilver you drew the [••]lphur from, lute it well, ſet it in aſh[•]s for to coagulate, [••]d to fix it xl. dayes and nights, or when you ſee the Lu[••]r body be quite dry, brown, and nothing of it doth any [•]ore riſe, or fume, then melt it quickly with a ſudden [••]x-fire before the blaſt, caſt it forth, then you tranſmit[••]d the whole ſubſtance of Silver into the beſt moſt mal[••]ble Gold.

Of this particular of Silver, I have made mention in ano[••]er place, namely in the repetition of my 12th Keys, where wrote that the ſpirit of Salt alſo can deſtroy Lune, ſo that [〈◊〉] potable Lune can be made of it: Of which potable Lune in [••]e laſt part mention ſh[•]ll be made of. You muſt note, that [••]rther muſt be proceeded with Lune, and a more exact [••]atomy muſt be made upon Lune, thus:

When you perceive that the Sulphur of Lune is wholly [•]xtracted, and the Vinegar takes no more tincture from her, [••]or the Vinegar doth taſte any more of Salt, then dry the [••]maining calx of Silver, put it into a glaſſe, pour on it [••]rroſive Hony water, as you did to the Gold, yet it muſt be [••]ear, and without any feces, ſet it in a warmth, for four, or [••]ve dayes, extract Lune's Salt, which you may perceive, when the water groweth white. The Salt being all o[••] it, then abſtract the Honey water, edulcorate the corroſ[••]neſſe by diſtilling, and clarifie the Salt with ſpirit of w[••] the remaining matter muſt be edulcorated and dried, p[••] upon it ſpirit of Tartar, digeſt it for half a moneth, th[•] proceed as you did with the Gold, then you have Mercu[••] of Lune. The ſaid Salt of Lune hath excellent vertues up[••] mans body, of which I ſhall ſpeak in another place. T[••] efficacie of its Salt and Sulphur may be learned by this f[••]lowing proceſſe.

Take of the ſky-coloured Sulphur, which you extract[•] from Lune, & is rectified with ſpirit of wine, put it in a gla[••] pour on it twice as much of ſpirit of Mercurie, which [〈◊〉] made of the white ſpirit of Vitriol, as you have heard [〈◊〉] the ſame place. In like manner take of the extracted a[••] clarified Salt of Silver, put to it three times as much [〈◊〉] ſpirit of Mercurie, lure well both glaſſes, ſet them into gentle Balmy for eight dayes and nights, look to it th[••] the Sulphur and Salt looſe nothing, but keep their quant[•]ty as they were driven out of the Silver. Having ſtood the[••] eight dayes and nights, then put them together into [〈◊〉] glaſſe, ſeal it Hermetice, let it in gentle aſhes, let all be di[•]ſolved, and let it be brought again into a clear and whi[••] coagulation, at laſt fix them by the degrees of fire, t[•]en th[•] matter will be as white as Snow, thus you have the whi[••] tincture, which wi[•]h the volatile diſſolved anima of Sol yo[•] may animate, fix, bring to the deepeſt redneſſe, and at laſ[•] ferment, and augment the ſame in infinitum, the ſpirit o[•] Mercurie being added thereunto. And note, that upo[•] Gold a proceſſe is to be ordered, with its Sulphur an[•] Salt.

If you underſtood how their primum mobile is to [〈◊〉] known, then is it needleſſe in this manner, and to tha[•] purpoſe to deſtroy Metals, but you may prepare every thing from, or of their firſt eſſence, and bring them to thei[•] full perfection.

[•]f the Particular of Mars, together with the extraction of its Anima and Salt.

[•]Ake of red Vitriol Oyl, or Oyl of Sulphur one part, and two parts of ordinary Well-water, put thoſe to[•]her, diſſolve therein filings of ſteel, this d[•]ſſolution muſt [〈◊〉] filtred being warm'd, let it gently evaporate a third part [••]t, then ſet the glaſſe in a cool place, there will ſhoot [••]ſtals as ſweet as Sugar, which is the true Vitriol of [••]rs, cant off that water, let it evaporate more, ſet it [••]in in a cold place, more Cryſtals will ſhoot, neal them [••]tly under a muffle, ſtirring it ſtill with an Iron-wyar, [〈◊〉] you get a fair purple coloured powder, on this powder [〈◊〉] diſtill'd Vinegar, extract the anima of Mars in a gentle [••]my, abſtract again the Vinegar, and dulcorate the anima. [••]s is the anima of Mars, which being added to the ſpirit Mercurie, and united with the anima of Sol, tingeth Lune [•]o Sol, as you heard about the Gold.

[〈◊〉] the Particular of Venus, what myſteries there are hid therein, and of the Extraction of its Sulphur and Salt.

TAke as much of Venus as you will, and make Vitriol, of [〈◊〉] it, after the uſual and common practiſe: or take good [〈◊〉] digreece, ſold in ſhops, it eff[•]cteth the ſame[•], grinde it [••]ll, pour on it good diſtill'd Vinegar, ſet it in a warmth, [〈◊〉] Vinegar will be tranſparent green, cant it off, pour on [〈◊〉] [••••]ning matter on the bottom new Vinegar, iterate [〈◊〉] work as long as the Vinegar taketh out any tincture, [〈◊〉] the [•••]er of the Verdigreece on the bottom lieth [〈◊〉] black; put the ting'd Vinegar together, diſtil the Vinegar from it to a dryneſſe, elſe a black Vitriol [〈◊〉] ſhoot, thus you get a purified Verdigreece, grind it ſm[•] pour on it the juyce of immature Grapes, let it ſtand i[•] gentle heat, this juyce maketh a tranſparent tincture, [〈◊〉] green as a Smarag'd, and attracteth the red tincture of [•]nus, which affords an excellent colour for Painters, L[•]mers, and others for their ſeveral uſes.

When the juyce extracts no more of the tincture, t[••] put all the extractions together, abſtract the moyety of [〈◊〉] juyce gently, ſet it into a cool place, there ſhooteth a v[•] fair Vitriol, if you have enough of that, then you have m[•]ter enough to reduce the ſame, and to make of it the Phi[••]ſophers ſtone, in caſe you ſhould make a doubt to perſo[••] this great myſtery by any other Vitriol. Of this preparat[••] I have ſpoken already Parabolicè in the book of the Ke[•] in the Chapter of the Wine-vineger, where I ſaid, that [〈◊〉] common Azoth is not the matter of our ſtone, but [〈◊〉] Azoth, or materia prima with the common Azoth, [〈◊〉] with the Wine, which is the out-preſt juyce of unt[••] Grapes, and with other waters alſo muſt be prepared, th[•] are the waters wherewith the body of Venus muſt be b[••]ken, and be made into Vitriol, which you muſt obſerve v[••] well, then you may free your ſelves from many troubles a[•] perplexities.

But eſpecially note, that the way of the Univerſal w[••] this Vitriol is underſtood in the ſame manner, and is th[•] conditioned, as I told you in the third part of the Univerſ[•] and pointed at the common Hungarian Vitriol, and even well out of Mars, put Particulariter to be dealt upon w[••] Venus. Therefore know, that it may be done with g[•••] profit, if you drive forth the red Oyl of Vitriol, and diſſo[••] Mars in it. And Cryſtalliſe the ſolution, as you were to [〈◊〉] when I treated of Mars. For in this diſſolution and coa[••]lation Venus & Mars are united, this Vitriol muſt be nea[••] under a muffle unto a pure red powder, and muſt be e[•]tracted further with diſtill'd Vinegar, as long as there is a[•] redneſſe in it, then you get the anima of Mars, and of V[•][••]s doubled, of this doubled vertue after the addition of [••]e anima of Sol, which you made in the before quoted [••]antity take twice as much of Silver calx, and fix it, as [••]u heard when I ſpoke of the Particular of Mars and of [••]l.

But note, that there muſt be twice as much of the ſpirit [〈◊〉] Mercurie, then there was allowed in that place, but in [••]e reſt the proceſſe is alike. The Salt of Venus muſt be [••]tracted when the juyce taketh no more of the green [••]ncture, then take the remaining matter, dry it, pour Ho[•]y water upon it, then that Salt goeth in that heat for [••]e, or ſix dayes, and clarifie it with ſpirit of Wine, then is [••]e Salt ready for your Medicine.

Of the Particular of Saturn, together with the extraction of its Soul and Salt.

MOſt men hold and count Saturn an unworthy and mean Metal, and is abuſed moſt baſely in ſeveral ex[•]editions, whereas, if known in its internals, more laudable [•]xploits would be performed with it, and many excellent [•]edicines be prepared of it. Being it is my intention to [•]ut an Elucidation to my former writings, to leave it after [••]e for a legacie unto poſterity, that ſimple men of ordinary [••]pacity might know and conceive alſo of the things I for[•]erly wrote of, which after the reſurrection of my fleſh my [••]lf ſhall bear record unto, that I have written more then [〈◊〉] meet, which others before me have purpoſely conceal[••]; it being my purpoſe to declare fundamentally all ſuch [••]rticulars, which formerly at large I diſcourſed of in a [••]iloſophick manner, thus: that this my Declaration made [〈◊〉] any decrepite age be noted conſcionably by thoſe into [•]hoſe hands it comes, that this my Revelation, which in [•]ods providence will be diſpoſed of, to be a lamp of truth [〈◊〉] all the world, may not be imparted unto unworthy men of Gods myſteries, which acknowledge not the Cr[••]tor of them in a pure humble and penitent heart, per[•]vering converſation, and a fervent purpoſe to incline u[••] and towards him. This preſent writing I leave as a p[••]cious badge with an earneſt p[•]oviſo, that men would lo[•] and obſerve carefully every letter contained in this, a[••] others of my writings, which in all fidelity I hold for unto them: And begin now with Saturn, who in all pr[•]bability after Aſtronomick rules is the higheſt and chief[•] Lord in the coeleſtial ſpheres, by whoſe influence the ſ[••]terranean Saturn hath its life and coagulation, putting th[•] black colour on it, the reſt from the beſt to the worſt fo[•]low after, whoſe ſplendour enlightneth that whole firm[•]ment, and is incorruptible.

I ſhould ſpeak ſomething of Saturns Nativity, fro[•] whence he taketh his off-ſpring, but in this place I [〈◊〉] not hold it requiſite (being there hath been mention ma[••] of it in ſeveral places in my other books) becauſe it is [〈◊〉] no purpoſe for Novices, and to repeat all, would increa[••] the volume, which I do not intend, purpoſing onely to el[••]cidate ſuch things, which formerly have been delivered i[•] obſcure terms.

Note, Saturn is not to be thus ſlighted by reaſon of i[•] external deſpicable form, if he be wrought in a due proceſſe after the Philoſophers way, he is able to requite a[••] the pains the Art-ſeeking Laborers beſtow on him, and wil[•] acknowledge him rather to be the Lord, and not the ſervant: a Lords honour is due unto him, not onely in reſpect of mans health, but in reſpect alſo of meliorating o[•] Metals: the preparation of it is thus:

Take [•]ed Minium, or Ceruſe, theſe are of ſeveral worths the one is better before the other, according to their ſeveral examinations, thoſe that are ſold in ſhops are ſeldo[•] pure, without their due additionals: my adviſe is, that every Artiſt undertake himſelf the deſtruction of Saturn, th[••] proceſſe of it is ſeveral, of the beſt I give this hint▪

Take pure Lead, which yields to the hammer, as much as you pleaſe, laminate it thinly, the thinner the better, [•]ng theſe lamins, or a large glaſſe filled with ſtrong Vine[••], in which is diſſolved a like quantity of the beſt Salmonie, ſublimed thrice with common Salt, ſtop the glaſ[••] mouth very cloſely, that nothing evaporate, ſet the glaſſe [〈◊〉] aſhes of a gentle heat, otherwiſe the ſpirits of the Vine[•]r and Salarmonick aſcend, and touch the Saturnal lamins; [〈◊〉] the tenth, or twelfth day you will ſpie a ſubtile Ceruſe [••]iging on theſe lamins, bruſh them off with a Hares foot, [〈◊〉] on, get enough of this Ceruſe, provided, you buy good [•]ates, if ſophiſticated, you labour in vain. Take a quan[••]y of it, if you pleaſe, put it in a body, pour ſtrong Vine[••]r on it, which ſeveral times hath been rectified, and was [••]tified at the laſt rectification with a ſixtienth part of [••]irit of vulgar Salt, dephlegmed, and drawn over: ſtop [••]e body well, or which is better, lute a blende head to [〈◊〉], ſet the body in aſhes to be digeſted, ſwing it often [••]out, in few dayes the Vinegar begins to look yellow [••]d ſweet, as the firſt, iterate it a third time, it is ſufficient. [•]he remnant of the Ceruſe ſtayeth in the bodies bottom [〈◊〉] ſhapely, filter the ting'd Vinegar clearly, that is of a [•]anſparent yellowneſſe: put all the ting'd Vinegar toge[••]er, abſtract two parts of it in Balneo Mariae, let the third [••]rt ſtay behinde, this third part is of a reaſonable Rubedo, [〈◊〉] the glaſſe in a very cold water, then the Chryſtalls will [•]oot ye ſooner, being ſhot, take them out with a woodden [•]oon, lay them on a paper for to dry, theſe are as ſweet as [••]gar, and are of great energy againſt inflamed ſymptomes: [••]ſtract the Vinegar further in Balneo, in which the Chry[••]als did ſhoot, ſet that diſtillation aſide, for the ſhoo[•]ing [〈◊〉] more Chryſtals, and proceed with theſe as you did for[•]erly.

Now take all theſe Chryſtals together, they in their ap[•]earance are like unto clarified Sugar, or Salpeter, beat [••]em in a Morter of glaſſe, or iron, or grinde them on a [〈◊〉] Marble unto an u[•]palpableneſſe, reverberate it in a [•]entle heat, to a bloud-like redneſſe: Provided, they do not turn to a blackneſſe. Having them in a Scarlet colour Put them in a glaſſe, pour on a good ſpirit of Juniper, abſtracted from its Oyl, and rectified ſeveral times into [〈◊〉] fair, white, bright manner, lute the glaſſe above, ſet it in [〈◊〉] gentle heat, let the ſpirit of Juniper be ring'd with a tranſparent redneſſe like bloud, then cant it off neatly fro[•] the feces into a pure glaſſe: with that proviſo, that no impu[••] thing run along, on the feces pour other ſpirit of Juniper extract ſtill, as long as any ſpirit taketh the tincture: kee[••] theſe feces, they contain the Salt.

Take all theſe ting'd ſpirits together, filter them, abſtrac[•] them gently in Balneo, there remaineth in the bottom [〈◊〉] near Carnation powder, which is the animae of Saturn, po[••] on it Rain water, often diſtill'd, diſtil it ſtrongly ſevera[•] times, to get off that, which ſtaid with the ſpirit of Juniper, and ſo this ſubtile powder will be edulcorated delicately: keep it in a ſtrong boyling, cant it off, then let i[•] go off neatly, let it dry gently, for ſafeties ſake, reverberate it again gently for its better exiccation, let all impurity evaporate, let it grow cold, put it in a Viol, put twic[•] as much of ſpirit of Mercury to it, which I told you of i[•] the third part of the Univerſal, entruſted you upon you[•] conſcience with it, ſeal it Hermeticè, ſet it in a vapor o[••] Bath, which I preſcribed at the preparation of the ſpiri[•] of Mercury, called the Philoſophers fimus equinus, let i[•] ſtand in the Myſtical Furnace for a moneth, then the anima[•] of Saturn cloſeth dayly with the ſpirit of Mercury, an[•] both become inſeparable, making up a fair tranſparen[•] deeply ting'd red Oyl: look to the government of the fire, be not too high with it, elſe you put the ſpirit of Mercur[•] as a volatile ſpirit to betake himſelf to his wings, forein[•] him to the breaking of the glaſſe: but if theſe be well united, then no ſuch fear look for, for one nature embraceth and upholdeth the other.

Then take this Oyl, or diſſolved anima of Saturn out o[•] the Viol, it is of a gallant fragrancie, put it into a body, apply a Helmet to it, lute it well, drive it over, then ſou[•] [•]d ſpirit is united together, and fit to tranſmute Mercury [•]rcipitated into Sol.

The precipitation of Mercury is done thus: take one [〈◊〉] of the ſpirit of Salt of Niter, and three parts of Oyl of [••]riol, put theſe together, caſt into it half a part of quick [•]rcury, being very well purged, ſet it in Sand, put a rea[••]able ſtrong fire to it, ſo that the ſpirits may not fly [•]ay, let it ſtand a whole day and night, then abſtract all [•]e ſpirits, then you finde in the bottom a precipitated [••]tency, ſome what red, pour the ſpirits on it again, let it [•]nd day and night, abſtract it again, then your precipi[••]e will be more red than at the firſt, pour it a third time [••]n it, then abſtract ſtrongly, then your precipitate is at [〈◊〉] higheſt rubedo, dulcifie it with diſtill'd water, let it [••]ongly be exiccated. Then take two parts of this preci[•]tated Mercury, one part of the diſſolved Saturnal Oyl, [〈◊〉] th[•]e together, ſet it in the aſhes, let all be fixed, not [•]e drop muſt ſtick any where to the glaſſe. Then it [•]uſt be melted with due additionals of lead; they cloſe [••]gether, afford Gold, which afterward at the caſting [•]ough Antimony can be exalted,

I have informed you hereof where I treated of Mercury [•]ut. But note, that Mercury muſt not be precipitated, [•]leſſe with pure Oyl of Vitriol, or Oyl of Venus, with [〈◊〉] addition of the ſpirit of Salt of Niter: Albeit ſuch [•]ercurie cannot be brought to its higheſt fixation, by way [•]f precipitating, but its fix'd coagulation is found in Sa[••]n, as you heard.

Be it the aboveſaid Mercury ſmall, grinde it on a ſtone, put [〈◊〉] in a Viol, pour on it the diſſolved Saturnal Oyl, it entreth [••]nſtantly, if ſo be you proceeded right in the precipitation, [〈◊〉] the Viol Hermeticè, fix it in aſhes, at laſt in ſand, to its [•]igheſt fixation, then you have bound Mercury with a true [••]ot, and brought him into a fix coagulation, which [•]rought its form and ſubſtance into a meliora ion, with an [•]bundance of ſuperfluous riches, if you carry it on a white [•]recipitate, then you get onely ſilver, which holds but little [•]f Gold.

One thing more I muſt tell thee about this proceſſe that there is yet a better way to deal upon Saturn, wi[••] more profit, you ſeeker, that you may not have any cauſ[•] to complain againſt my not declaring, take it thus: tak[•] two parts of the aboveſaid diſſolved Oyl, or of the Saturnal Soul, one part of Aſtrum Solis, and of Antimonial Sulphur, whoſe preparation followeth afterwards, two parts half as much of Sal of Mars, as all theſe are, weigh the[•] together, put all into a glaſſe Vial, let the third part of i[•] be empty, ſet it in together to be fixed, then the Salt o[•] Mars openeth in this compound, is fermented by it, an[•] the matter begins to incline to a blackneſſe, for ten, o[•] twelve dayes it is eclipſed, then the Salt returns to its coagulation, laying hold in its operation on the whole compound, coagulate it firſt into a deep brown Maſſe, [〈◊〉] it ſtand thus unſtirred in a continued heat, it turneth to [〈◊〉] bloud-red body, encreaſe the fire, that you may ſee Aſtr[••] Solis be predomi[•]ant, which appeareth in a greeniſh colour, like unto a Rain-bow: keep this fire continually, le[•] all theſe colours vaniſh, it turneth to a tranſparent re[•] ſtone ve[•]y ponderous, needleſſe to be projected on Mercury, but ringeth after its perfection, and fixation all white Metals into the pureſt Gold. Then take of the prepared fixed red ſtone, or of the powder one part, and fo[••] parts of any of the white Metal, firſt let ye Metal melt half a[••] hou[•], and let it be well clarified, then project the powde[••] upon it, let it drive well, and ſee that it be entred into the Metal, & the Metal begin to congeal, then is it tranſmute[•] into Gold, beat the pot in pieces, take it out, if it hath any Slacks, [•]rive them with Saturn, then is it pure and maileable. If you carry it on Lune, then put more of the powder to it than you do upon Jupiter and Saturn, as half an ounc[•] of he powder tingeth five ounces of Lune into Sol, let t[••] be a miracle, [•]o[•]l not thy Soul with imparting this myſtery unto others, that are unworthy of it. Proceed with S[•]lt o[•] Saturn, as you were informed about Mars and Venus, onely diſtilled Vinegar p[••]formeth that, which Hony wa[••]er did by the other, and clarifie it with ſpirit of [••]e.

[•]f the Particular of Jupiter, together with the extraction of its Anima and Salt.

TAke Pumice-ſtones, ſold in ſhops, neal them, quench them in old good Wine, neal them again, and quench [••]m as you did formerly, let this nealing be iterated a third [••]e, the ſtronger the Wine is you quench withall, the [•]tter it is, after that dry them gently, thus are they pre[••]ed for that purpoſe. Pulveriſe theſe Pumice-ſtones ſub[••]y, then take good Tin, laminate it, ſtratifie in a cement[••]g way in a reverberating Furnace, reverberate this matter [•]r five dayes and nights in a flaming fire, it draweth the [••]cture of the Metal, then grinde it ſmall, firſt ſcraping the [•]in lamins, put it in a glaſſe body, pour on it good diſtil[••]d Vinegar, ſet it in digeſtion, the Vinegar draweth the [••]ncture, which is red-yellow, abſtract this Vinegar in Bal[•••], edulcorate the Anima of Jupiter with diſtilled water, [••]xiccate gently, proceed in the reſt as you did with the [•]nima of Saturn, viz. diſſolve radically in, or with the ſpi[••]t of Mercury, drive them over, pour that upon two parts of red Mercury precipitated, being precipitated with this Venerean ſanguine quality, then coagulate and fix: if done [•]uccesfully, you may acknowledge Jupiter's bounty, that gave leave to tranſmute this precipitate into Gold, which will be apparent at their melting. It performeth this alſo, it tranſmuteth ten parts of Lune into Gold, if other Sulphurs be added thereunto: force no more upon Jupiter, it's all [•]he is able to do, being of a peaceable diſpoſition, he told all what he could do. The proceſſe about this Salt, is, to extract it with diſtilled Rain-water, clarified with ſpirit of Wine.

Of the Particular of Mercury vive, and of its Sulphur and Salt.

TAke of quick Mercury, ſublimed ſeven times, lib. a ba[•] grinde it very ſmall, pour on it a good quantity of ſha[••] Vinegar, boyl it on the fire for an hour, or upward, ſtirri[••] the matter with a woodden ſpatule, take it from the fir[•] let it be cold, the Mercury ſetleth to the bottom, and th[•] Vinegar cleareth up: if it be ſlow in the clearing, let ſom[•] drops of ſpirit of Vitriol fall in the Vinegar, it doth precipi[•]tate the other, for Vitriol precipitateth Mercury vive, Sa[•] of Tartar precipitateth Sol, Venus and common Salt dot[•] precipitate Lune, and Mars doth the like to Venus, a lixivium of Beech-aſhes doth it to Vitriol, and Vinegar is fo[•] common Sulphur in that way, and Mars for Tartar, and Sal[•] peter for Antimony. Cant off the Vinegar from the precip[•]taete, you will finde the Mercury like a pure waſh'd Sand pour on it Vinegar, iterate this work a third time, then edulcorate the matter, let it dry gently.

Take two ounces of Anima of Mars, one ounce of Anima of Saturn, one ounce of Anima of Jupiter, diſſolve theſe in [〈◊〉] ounces of Mercurial ſpirit, let all be diſſolved, then drive it over, leave nothing behinde, it will be a Golden water, like a tranſparent diſſolution of Sol, your prepared and edulcarated Mercury muſt be warm'd in a ſtrong Viol, pour this warm'd water gently on it, a tiſſing will be, ſtop the Viol, then the tiſſing is gone; than ſeal it Hermetice, ſet it in a gentle Balmy, in ten dayes the Mercury is diſſolved into a graſſe green Oyl: ſet the Viol in aſhes for a day and night, rule your fire gently, this green colour turneth into a yellow Oyl, in this colour is hid the Rubedo, keep it in this fire and let the matter turn to a yellow powder, like unto Orpiment; when no more comes over, then ſet the glaſſe in Sand for a day and a night, give a ſtrong fire to it, [〈◊〉] faireſt Ruby-rubedo appear, melt it to a fixedneſſe [〈◊〉] a fluxing powder made of Saturn, it comes now to a [•]ableneſſe, one pound of it containeth two ounces of [〈◊〉] Gold, as deep, as ever Nature produced any. Be[•]ber the poor, do not precipitate thy ſelf into an infer[•]abyſſe, by forgetting thy ſelf in not doing the duties ought to perform in regard of the bleſſing,

An Oyl made of Mercury, and its Salt.

TAke quick Mercury, being often ſublimed, and rectified with Calx vive, put it in a body, diſſolve it in a heat, in ſtrong Nitrous water, abſtract the water from the corroſiveneſſe which ſtayeth there, muſt be extracted [•]h good Vinegar, well boyled in it: at laſt abſtract this [•]egar, the remainder of it muſt be dulcified with diſtill'd [•]ter, and then exiccated. Afterward on each pound [••]ſt be poured lib. 1. of the beſt ſpirit of Wine, let it [•]nd luted in putrefaction, then drive over what may be [•]ven, firſt gently, then more ſtrongly, from that which is [•]me over, abſtract the ſpirit of Wine per Balneum, there [•]yeth behinde a fragrant Oyl, which is Aſtrum Mercurii, [〈◊〉] excellent remedy againſt Venereal diſeaſes.

Seeing the Salt and Aſtrum of Mercury is of the ſame Me[•]cinal operation, I hold it needleſſe to write of each in [•]articular, & will joyn their operation into one, and declare [•]f it in the laſt part about the Salt of Mercury, becauſe [•]hey are of one effect in Medicinal operations. Take the [•]ade Oyl, or Aſtrum Mercurii, which by reaſon of its [•]reat heat keeps its own body in a perpetual running, ca[•]ing it on the next ſtanding earth, from which you former[••] drew the Oyl. Set it in a heat, the Oyl draweth its own [•]alt; that being done, put to it a reaſonable quantity of [•]pirit of Wine, abſtract it again, the Salt ſtayeth behinde, [••]ſſolved in the freſh ſpirit of Wine, being dulcified by cohobation: Then is the Mercurial Sal ready, and prepa[••] for the Medicine, as ſhall be mentioned in the laſt pa[•] Mercury is able to do no more, neither Particulariter, [〈◊〉] univerſaliter, becauſe he is far off from Philoſophers M[•]cury, as many are deceived in their fancies to the co[•]trarie.

Of the Particular of Antimony, together with the extraction of its Sulphur and Salt.

TAke good Hungarian Antimony, pulveriſe it ſubtil[•] to a meal, calcine it over a gentle heat, ſtirring it ſt[•••] with an Iron wyar, and let it be albified, and that a laſt it may be able to hold out in a ſtrong fire. Then p[••] it into a melting pot, melt it, caſt it forth, turn it to a tran[•]parent glaſſe, beat that glaſſe, grinde it ſubt[•]l[•]y, put it in [〈◊〉] glaſſe body of a broad flat bottom, pour on it diſtille[•] Vinegar, let it ſtand luted in a gentle heat for a goo[•] while, the Vinegar extracteth the antimonial tincture which is of a deep redneſſe, abſtract the Vinegar, there remaineth a ſweet y[•]llow ſubtile powder, which muſt b[•] edulcurated with diſtilled water, all acidity muſt be taken off, exiccate i[•]; pour on it the beſt graduated ſpirit o[•] Wine, ſet it in a [•••]tle heat, you have a new extraction, which [〈◊〉] and yellow, cant it off, pour on other ſpirit, let it ex[•••] a[•] long it can, then abſtract the ſpirit of Wine, exi[••]te, you finde a tender deep yellow ſubtile powd[•]r of an admirable Medicinal operation, is nothing inferior unto po[•]able Sol.

Take two parts of this powder, one part of Solar Sulphur, grinde th[•]ſe ſmall, then t[•]ke three parts of Sulphur of Mars, pour on it ſix parts of Spirit of Mercury, ſet it in digeſtion well lu[•]ed, le[•] the S[•]l[•••]ur of Mars be diſſolved to a[•]y, then carry in a ſ[•]u[•••] part of [•]he ground-matter of of the Sulphur of Antimony, and of Sol, lu[••] and digeſt, let all be diſſolved, then carry in more of your ground Sul[•]rs, proceed as formerly, iterating it ſo long till all be [•]olved, then the matter becomes a thick brown Oyl, [••]e all over joyntly into one, leave nothing behinde in [〈◊〉] bottom, then pour it on a purely ſeparated Lunar calx, it by degrees of fire, then melt it into a body, ſeparate [•]ith an Aquaſort, ſix times as much of Sal is precipitated [•]n above the ponderoſity the compound did weigh, ye re[•]inder of Lune ſerveth for ſuch works you pleaſe to put unto.

The Antimonial tincture being extracted totally from its [••]rum, and no Vinegar takes more hold of any tincture, [••]n ex[•]ccate the remaining powder, which is of a black [••]lour, put it into a melting pot, lute it, let it ſtand in a [••]ſonable heat, let all the ſulphureous part burn away, [••]de the remaining matter, pour on it new diſtilled Vine[•••], extract its Salt, abſtract the Vineger, eduleorate the [•]dity by cohobation, clarifie ſo long, ſo that the water be [••]ite and clear. If you have proceeded well in your ma[•]als, then the leſſer time will be required to extract the [••]timonial Salt, as you ſhall hear of it. Whereby you may ſerve, that the Antimonial Sulphur is extracted in the [•]lowing manner, and is of the ſame Medicinal opera[••]n, but is of a quicker and ſpeedier work, which is a [••]tter of conſequence, and worthy to be taken notice

A ſhort way to make Antimonial Sulphur and Salt.

TAke good Vitriol, common Salt, and unſlaked Li[•]e, of each one p[•]und, four ounces of Sal armoniac, bear them ſmall, put them in a glaſſe body, pour on it [〈◊〉] pound of common Vinegar, let it ſtand in digeſtion [•••]'d for a day, put it afterward into a Retort, apply a receiver to it, diſtil it, as uſually an aquafort is diſ[•••] Take of the off drawn liquor, and of common Salt, [〈◊〉] pound of each, rectifie them once more, let no muddi[••] come over with it, all muſt come clear: then take [〈◊〉] pound of pulveriſed antimonial glaſſe, pour this ſpirit [〈◊〉] it, lute it well, digeſt, and let all be diſſolved; then [•]ſtract the water in Balneo Mariae, there remains in the b[•]tom a black, thick, fluid matter, but ſomewhat dry, lay on a glaſſe Table, ſet it in a Cellar, a red Oyl floweth h[•] it, leaving ſome feces behinde, coagulate this red Oyl ge[•]ly upon aſhes, let it be exiccated there; then pour [〈◊〉] beſt ſpirit of Wine on it, it extracteth a tincture which [〈◊〉] bloud red, cant off that which is ting'd, pour other ſpi[•] of Wine on the remainder, let all redneſſe be extract[••] thus you have the tincture, or Antimonial Sulphur, which [〈◊〉] of a wonderfull Medicinal efficacie, and is aequivalent [••]potable Gold, as you beard in the former proceſſe. A[•] in preparation ſerveth now to proceed with it Particula[•] [•]ter, as I ſhewed in the former. This black matter, whi[•] ſtayed behinde after the extraction of Sulphur, muſt be [〈◊〉] exiccated, extract its ſnow-white Salt with diſtill'd V[•]gar, edulcorate it, clarifie it with ſpirit of Wine, obſerve i[•] vertues in Medicina, of the which in the laſt part.

Thus I conclude my fourth part alſo. Other myſteries [〈◊〉] Nature, and ſome augmentations might be here annected but I wave them, mentioning onely the chiefeſt of the[•] and are ſuch, which may be wrought eaſily, and in a ſh[••] time, and whereby good ſtore of riches may be gotte[•] The reſt, which are not of that importance, and may eaſil[•] draw Novices into errours, bringing no profit for the pr[•]ſent, may in good time by carefull practiſe be found o[•] and obtained.

If you onely know thoſe, whereby health and wealth [〈◊〉] obtained, then theſe metalline Sulphurs in their co[•]pounds may bring great profit unto you, to write of a[•] theſe circumſtantially, is impoſſible to one man, it is of a[•] infinite labour. Call upon God for grace and mercie: A[•] fundamental Theorie affords the practick part, from [•]nce flow infinite ſprings, all from one head. If you go [••]erwiſe to work, than I entreated you to do by the Crea[••] of heaven and earth, then all your actions will be retro[••]de unto a temporal diſaſter.

I ſhould annex here the efficacies of other Minerals, [••]ich are next unto Metals: but ſeeing they are of no abi[•]ty unto tranſmutation of Metals, but are onely Medicinal, and are qualified to do their work to the admiration of thoſe that make uſe of them, I leave them at this time. The Almighty hath put wonderfull vertues into Metalline Salts, which have been found approved ſeveral wayes.

End of the fourth Part.

BASILIUS VALENTINUS HIS XII. KEYES, Which is A Treatiſe about the great ſtone of Philoſophers.

In which many thouſands, ſince the beginning of the World have wrought.

LONDON, Printed Anno Domini, MDCLVI.

THE PREFACE.

H Ʋman fear coming upon me, I fell to conſider out of natures frailty the miſerableneſſe of this World, lamented within me the ſin, which our firſt Parents had committed, and how little of repentance [••]e was for it, men ſtill growing worſe, an eternal [••]iſhment being ſet upon all impenitents: it made [〈◊〉] to make haſte to out-run evil bid farewell to the [••]rld, vowing my ſelf to become Gods ſervant onely. [••]ving ſpent ſome time in my Order, after I had done [〈◊〉] appointed devotions, to draw my ſelf from idlenſſe [〈◊〉] ſinfull thoughts, I took in hand for to imploy my [••]ceſſive hours to ſome purpoſe, to anatomize na[••]al things, to dive into Natures myſteries a thing [••]t the ſpiritual ones I found moſt comfortable and [•]reſhing. Having found many books in our Mo[•]ſtery, which Philoſophers had written a long time [••]ore me, which had dived very deeply into Na[•]re's ſecrets, it encouraged me the more to learn [••]t, which they knew, though in the beginning all [〈◊〉] very difficult, however upon my earneſt prayer to God, the Lord bleſſed me in my underta[•••]gs.

In our Monaſtery there was one of my Fell[••] who was mightily tormented with the ſtone, was [••]ten bed-rid, ſought after many Phyſicians, but [〈◊〉] was able to cure him, was left hopeleſſe, taking refuge to Gods omnipotencie. Then I began to a[•]tomize Vegetables, extracted their Salt and qu[•]teſſences, but none of all theſe would, or could [〈◊〉] my ſick fellow; made tryals of many of them, but [〈◊〉] were too weak to diſſolve the ſtone: I took his caſe i[•] further conſideration, and intended to know fun[••]mentally, what efficacie the great Creatour had [〈◊〉] into Minerals and Metals; the more I ſought i[•] them, the more I found, ſtill one ſecret iſſuing fo[•] from the other: God bleſſed me herein, opened m[•] eyes, that I ſaw marvellous vertues in the Nat[••] of Minerals and Metals, the great Creatour had i[•] planted into them, inſomuch, that it is a hard mat[••] to believe it.

Among theſe I hapned to get one Mineral, comp[•]ſed of many colours, which had many and rare ve[•]tues in Medicine, I drew its ſpiritual eſſence fr[••] it, whereby in few dayes I cured my diſeaſed Col[••]giate. For this Mineral ſpirit was very ſtrong, a[••] ſtrengthned the weak ſpirit of my brother, and liv[•] a long time after that cure. He prayed dayly a[••] hourly for me as long as he lived, even to his dyi[••] moment; his, and other mens prayers availed ſo m[•••] with the great Creatour, that by his bleſſing and mi[••] endeavours were revealed many great matters u[•]to me, which he did not reveal unto worldly [〈◊〉] men.

This Philoſophick ſtone for mans health and ſu[•]itation of him in this valley of miſery I reveal [•]o poſterity, as much as is meet for me to do, fol[••]ing herein the ſteps of my predeceſſors, theſe Phi[••]phick informations are aenigmatick and ſhort, [••]t are a rock on which Truth may firmly be builded. [〈◊〉] wiſh good ſucceſſe and bleſſings from above to the [••]dertakers herein. Amen.

The Contents of this Book are

• I. OF the great ſtone of Ancient Philoſophers.
• II. The XII. Keyes, whereby the doors [〈◊〉] the Philoſophers ſtone are opened and the deep Fountain of health an[•] wealth floweth from thence.
• III. A ſhort repetition of his writings about th[•] Philoſophick ſtone, wherein is plainly held forth the true Philoſophick light: whereunto is annexed an information of Quick-ſilver, Antimony, Vitriol-water, commo[•] Sulphur, Calx vive, Arſenic, Salpeter, Salmiac, Tartar, Vinegar, and Wine.
• IV. Of Microcoſme, or Mans body, what it containeth, of what it is compoſed, the whole contents thereof, and of its iſſue and end.
• V. Of the great myſtery of the World, and its Medicinals belonging to man.
• VI. Of the Magisterium of the VII. Planets, their eſſence, properties, vertues, operation, and revolution, and their admirable hidden myſtical qualities.

Of the great Stone of the Ancient Philoſophers, written by BASILIUS VALENTINUS.

DEar friend, and well wiſher unto Art, in my Preface I promiſed to ſuch, which are deſirous to learn, and to dive into Natures condition, to ſhew, and to ſpeak of that corner ſtone, as much as I am permitted from above to do out of what the Ancient Philoſophers have prepared their ſtone, whereby they prolonged their lives in a continued health, and whereby they got their riches alſo, to live comfortably in this miſerable world. For the performing of my promiſe, not leading you into any tedious ſophiſtick labyrinths, but diſcloſing the very head-ſpring of all goodneſſe, you are to note and to take into ſerious conſideration my following expreſſions, if ſo be your intent is to learn any thing concerning this Art; I do not purpoſe to uſe any prolixity in words, for that were to no purpoſe: I do love few words, which are full of pith.

Note, it is given but to few men to attain unto the maſtery of this Art; though many ſtrive, and endeavour to work upon that ſtructure, yet the true knowledge, and the attaining thereunto the great Creator hath made common, but beſtoweth it onely on ſuch, which hate lies, and love[•] truth, and intend ſeriouſly and groaningly to get this Art[•] and chiefly ſuch men are fit for it, which love God unfainedly, and pray earneſtly unto him for ſuch a knowledge.

Therefore I tell you for a meer truth, that in caſe you intend to go about the making of this ſtone, you be a follower of that I inform you of, and before all things pray [〈◊〉] the great Creator, to beſtow his bleſſing upon you herein, and if you have ſinned, confeſſe unto him, with a full reſolution never to do evil again, but lead a godly life, and that your heart may be enlightned in all good things, and remember, when ever you are preferred to any honour, to be helpfull to the poor and needy, to deliver them out of their miſery, making them glad with thy helping [•]an[•], that the Lord may beſtow the greater bleſſings upon you, and you may thereby be confirm'd in faith, that there is a Throne in Heaven prepared for ſuch a one, hereafter to live in eternal bliſſe.

My friend, deſpiſe not to read good, and real writings of ſuch men, which had the Philoſophick ſtone before us, for from them I had it, next unto Gods revelation: the reading of their books muſt be frequently iterated, then the fundamentals thereof will the better ſtick to the memory, and truth, like a burning Candle, be not extinguiſht.

Be induſtrious in your carefull working, ſearch into Scriptures continually, be not prepoſſeſſed with opinions, follow after the unanimous concurrence of Philoſophers: a wavering man is eaſily brought into wrong wayes, and ſuch men which have wavering mindes, ſeldom build firm houſes.

Seeing the ſtone of the moſt ancient Philoſophers doth not come, or ſpring from things which are combuſtible, becauſe this ſtone is freed from all dangers, fire may put him unto; therefore trouble not thy ſelf to ſeek for it in ſuch things, where Nature would not have thee to ſeek for. As for example, if one ſhould tell thee, this ſtone is a vegetable work, becauſe a growing quality is in it, but it is not: For if our ſtone were of a condition, as other vegeta[••]es are, it would eaſily be conſumed in fire, nothing [•]ould ſtay, but onely its Salt. Though there were men, [•]ho have written great volumes of the vegetable ſtone, yet [••]y friend you muſt note, that it will be very difficult for [••]e to conceive of it, for they call our ſtone a vegetable [••]e, becauſe a growing and augmenting belongeth there[•]nto.

Note further, irrational beaſts have their increaſe of [•]heir own kinde: ſo you ſtrive nor to ſeek for, or to make [•]his ſtone but onely of his own ſeed, from whence it hath [〈◊〉] beginning and being. Neither ought you to look out [•]or any Animal ſoul, for the making thereof: fleſh and [•]loud, which the great Creator hath beſtowed upon Ani[•]als, belongeth properly unto animals: God compoſed [•]hem of fleſh and bloud, whereby an Animal is made: but [••]r ſtone, which from the ancient Philoſophers came as by [•]n inheritance upon me, is made of one, and of two things, which contain a third; this is the naked truth; and it is rightly ſpoken: for the ancients underſtood by man and wife, one body, not in reſpect of the outward appearance, but by reaſon of their innate love, which they got at the firſt working of their Natures, in that reſpect it is acknowledged that they are one: and as both propagate and increaſe their ſeed; even ſo the ſeed of that matter, of which our ſtone is made, can be propagated and augmented.

If you be a true lover of our Art, you will take this expreſſion into conſideration, to keep thy ſelf out of the pit, into which erroneous Sophiſters uſually fall, which their enemy digged for them. My friend, that you may know further from whence this ſeed cometh, then enquire firſt of thy ſelf, to what end you intend to ſeek after this ſtone: Reaſon then will dictate unto thee, that it muſt needs ſpring from a Metalline root, which the Creator hath ordained for Metals to generate thereby: if you will know the matter of it, then note; Firſt, when the ſpirit moved [•]pon the water, and the Univerſe was encompaſſed with darkneſſe, then the omnipotent and eternal God, who i[•] without a beginning and end, whoſe wiſdom was from eternity by his inſearchable Decree created heaven and earth, and the things contained therein, be they viſible, or inviſible, by what name ſoever they may be called. But of [•]he manner of this glorious Creation my intent is not now to Philoſoph[•]ze much upon: let Scripture and Faith be impartial judges herein!

The great Creator hath given in the Creation to every Creature a ſeed, whereby it ſhould generate and encreaſe, whereby Animals, Vegetables, and Minerals might continually be preſerved. Man hath no power beſtowed on him, to make, or bring forth a new kinde of ſeed according to his fancy againſt Gods ordinance, there is granted unto him a propagation and increaſe, God reſerved for his ſole power to make ſeed, elſe man could play the Creator alſo, which doth not beſeem him, and belongs meerly to the higheſt Creator.

Conceive thus of the ſeed, which worketh Metals; there is a heavenly influence, according to Gods good pleaſure and ordinance, from above it falls, and mingleth with ſydereal qualities. When ſuch conjunctions happen, then theſe two beget an earthly ſubſtance, as a third thing, whic[•] is the beginning of our ſeed, its firſt original, whereby its firſt deſcent is proved: from theſe three the Elements have their off ſpring, as water, aire, and earth, which work further by an Ae[•]nick fire to the bringing forth of a perfect thing, which Hermes and all thoſe before me (for I could finde no more) have called the three principles, and were found to be an internal Soul, an incomprehenſible ſpirit, and a viſible body. Theſe three being together in one dwelling, in proceſſe of time, yet by Vulcans help, to be a comprehenſible being, as a Me cury, Sulphur, and Salt; theſe three, by an uniting be[•••] [•]rought into a coagulation, according to Natures miraculo[•]s operation, there is brought forth a perfect body as Nature would have it, and the Creator had ordained the ſeed for it. He that purpoſeth to ſeek after the fountain of our work, and hopeth to get the vi[•]tory in this warfar, to h[•]m I tell this for a truth, that where there is a Metalline Soul, a Metalline ſpirit, and a Metalline form of body, that there muſt needs be there alſo a Metalline Mercury, a Metalline Sulphur, and a Metalline Salt, theſe muſt needs produce a perfect Metalline body. If you do not conceive of it now, then ſurely you are not adapted for Philoſophy, and in brief it is thus, it will not be poſſible for thee to reap the benefit of any Metalline body, unleſſe you have joyned compleatly the forenamed three principles. Note further; Animals are compoſed of fleſh and bloud, there is in them alſo a living ſpirit and breath, which dwelleth in them, but they are deſtitute of a rational Soul, which before them, man is endued withall. This is the reaſon, that when Animals loſt their lives, they are gone, no more hopes of them for ever. But man, who offering his body to his Creator in time of death, hath a Soul, who at the day of [•]eſurrection is to receive a glorified body to his Soul, and are to dwell together, and ſo Soul, Body, and Spi[•]i come together again i[•] an heavenly clarification, which in all eternity will never be ſeparated again, &c.

Therefore man, by reaſon of his Soul, is acknowledged to be a fixed Creature, becauſe he is to live for ever after this life ([•]hough in his body he is ſubject to a temporal death,) For death is unto man onely a clarification, according to Gods ordinance, by certain degrees is delivered from a ſinfulneſſe, and tranſplanted into a better condition, which doth not be[••]ll other Animals, therefore are they eſteemed to be unfixed Creatures, for theſe being once gone by death, cannot expect nor look for any reſuſcitation, becauſe they want a rational Soul, for which the ſole Mediator Jeſus Chriſt hath ſuffered, and ſhed his innocent bloud. A ſpirit [•••]y have a dwelling in a body, but it is not conſequent, ha[•] he muſt abide there conſtantly, though the body and [•]hat ſpirit be at reſt, and that body with that ſpirit doth not conteſt about any controverſie: becauſe both do want the ſtrongeſt part, which upholdeth and bindeth together ſ[•]ul and body, protecteth and keepeth them from dangers, namely the tender, noble, and fixed Soul: for where the Soul is quite gone and loſt, there is never any redemption hoped for: for a thing which hath no Soul, is not perfect, which is one of the higheſt myſteries, which ſeekers ought to know, and upon conſcience I am commanded not to conceal this myſtery, but to make it known to thoſe, which ſeriouſly love fundamentals of truth. And take carefully notice of what I ſay: Spirits hidden in Metals are not alike: ſome are more volatile, and others more fix: their ſouls and bodies are not alike neither: that Met[•]l, which containeth the three fixedneſſes, that is bleſſed with a power, to hold in the fire, and ſo overcome all its enemies, which onely is found in Sol. Lune containeth a fixed Mercury, and is the reaſon, why ſhe doth not fly ſo ſoon in the fire, as other imperfect Metals do, but ſtands out her examens in the fire, and ſheweth the ſame victoriouſly, becauſe the devouring Saturn can rob nothing from her.

That arch-wench Venus is clad, and poſſeſſed with an abounding tincture, the moſt part of her body is a meer tincture, like unto ſuch a tincture, which dwelleth alſo in the beſt Metal, and by reaſon of the ſuperfluity thereof, is [•]ing'd upon red, and becauſe her body being leprous, that fixed tincture cannot have any abiding place in her unfix'd body, but muſt vaniſh together with her body: for the body being conſumed by deſtruction, or death, that body cannot ſubſiſt neither, but muſt give way and flie, becauſe the habitation is deſtroyed, and conſumed with fire, ſo that her place is not known, nor may any other dwell there from henceforth. But in a fixed body ſhe willingly dwelleth conſtan[•]ly.

Fixed Salt hath beſtowed on valorous Mars a hard ſturdy and groſſe body, whereby the gallantry of his minde is p[•]oved, and is not ſo eaſily gotten from this warlike Prince, becauſe his body is hard, and is not eaſily maſter'd, or conquer'd. But if his valour with Lune's fixation, and with Venus her beauty in a mixture doth harmonize ſpiritually, then a curious and melodious Muſick may be made, whereby ſome Keyes may be advanced, and the needy labourer may get a piece of living Particulariter, if he got up to the uppermoſt ſtep of that ladder: for the phlegmatick quality or moiſt Nature of Lune muſt be exſiccated through the hot bloud of Venus, and her great pains muſt be allayed by the outward Salt.

There is no neceſſity to ſeek for ſeed in the Elements: becauſe our ſeed is not put ſo far back, but there is a nearer place, in which our ſeed hath its ſure and certain habitation, if you onely rectifie and regulate the Philoſophick Mercury, Sulphur, and Salt, ſo that of their ſoul, ſpirit, and body there be made an inſeparable union, which may never be ſeparated again, then the Band of love is perfectly made, and the dwelling is well prepared for the Crown.

And note, that this is onely a liquid Key, like unto a heavenly property, and a dry water, addicted to an earthly ſubſtance, all which is but one thing, proceeding and growwing from three, two, and one: if you can hit it, then you have overcome the maſtery, and make a copulation betwixt Bride and Bridegroom, let them feed and cheriſh one another with their own fleſh and bloud, let them increaſe and multiply infinitely by their own ſeed. I could willingly communicate and diſcloſe more unto you, but the Creator hath forbidden it, and is not meet for me to ſpeak any further of it, for fear the gifts of the higheſt ſhould be miſuſed, and I ſhould be the cauſe of committing of great ſins, and load Gods wrath upon me, and fall with the reſt into eternal puniſhment.

My friend, if theſe expreſſions give thee no content, to conceive of the thing, and I lead thee unto the practick part of mine own, how I have attained by Gods aſſiſtance unto the Philoſophers ſtone, I pray conſider the ſame well, peruſe diligently my XII. K[•]yes, iterate their reading frequently, & then proceed according to my inſtruction, which I ſet down fundamentally by way of a parable.

Take a piece of the fineſt Gold, anatomize the ſame by ſuch means, as Nature hath afforded unto Artiſts, even as a Phyſician anatomizeth mans body, whereby he is inquiſitive into the condition of mans internal parts: reduce thy Gold unto that, what it hath been at firſt, then you will finde the ſeed, the beginning, middle, and end, out of which our Gold and its wife is made, namely of a penetrating ſubtile ſpirit, of a pure, tender, and undefiled Soul, and of an Aſtral Salt and Balſam, which after their uniting is nothing elſe but a Mercurial liquor, the ſame water was brought to School to its own God Mercury, who examined the water, having ſound it without deceit and falſhood, he made friendſhip with it, and took the water into a Matrimonial ſtate, and both became an incombuſtible Oyl. For Mercury grew ſo proud upon it, that he knew himſelf no more, he flung away his Eagles wings, himſelf ſwallowed the ſmooth t[•]yl of the Dragon, and offered a battel unto Mars: Mars gathered his Champions together, and gave command, that Mercurie ſhould be taken Priſoner, and be kept cloſely impriſoned, Vulcan was commanded to be Jaylor ſo long, till a Female kinde came in to his deliverance. This rumour being noiſed abroad, the other Planets had a meeting, where they conſulted, what further was to be done in that buſineſſe, & the proceedings might wiſely be proſecuted. Then Saturn made a ſpeech, in this manner: I Saturn, the higheſt Planet in the firmament, proteſt before this honourable Aſſembly of my Lords, that I am the meaneſt and moſt contemptible among you all, of a weak corruptible body, of a black colour, ſubject to many infirmities in this miſerable World, and yet am an examiner of you all: for I have no abiding place; and take along with me ſuch, tha[•] are like unto me: I cannot lay the fault of this my miſery to none but Mercury, who by his careleſneſſe hath pu this evil upon me: Therefore, my Lords, I beſeech you, to be pleaſed to revenge my quarrel on him, a[••] [•]ei[••] [〈◊〉] [••]ſt already into priſon, there to take his life aw[•]y [〈◊〉] ſ[••]m [•]ot there, that not one drop of his bl[••]d Saturn having ended his ſpeech, Jupiter roſe up, made a [•]tch upon his knees, bowing his Scepter, began to com[••]nd Saturns propoſals, commanding all thoſe to be pu[•]ſhed, which ſhould neglect to put in execution that, [•]hich Saturn would have done unto Mercurie. After him [•]oſe Mars with his naked ſword, which was full of ſtrange [••]d admirable colours, glittering like a fire-glaſſe, caſting [••]ange rayes, put ye ſword into Vulcans the Jaylors hand, to [••]t in execution all that, which the Lords had reſolved up[••]: killed Mercurie, burnt his bones with fire, & Vulcan did [〈◊〉] Office very carefully. This Executioner having done [〈◊〉] duty, there came a white ſhining woman in a long garb [〈◊〉] a ſilver piece, of ſeveral water colours, being well viewed, [••]hold it was Lune, the wife of Sol, ſhe fell down upon her [•]ce, intreated heartily, and weeping, that her huſband Sol [•]ight be ſet at liberty out of priſon, Mercurie had caſt him [•]to, by force with deceitfulneſſe, where both he and Mer[••]rie, upon your honours command were kept impriſoned. [••]t Vulcan gave her a flat denial, becauſe he was com[•]anded to do ſo, and went on to do his office in executing [••]e ſentence. At laſt the Lady Venus came in a deep red [•]obe lined with green, of a moſt beautifull countenance, [•]leaſant ſpeech, and amiable geſtures, bearing fragrant [•]owers in her hand, which were a moſt refreſhing pleaſure [〈◊〉] the eyes to behold, by reaſon of variety of colours: ſhe [•]ade interceſſion in the Chaldaean language unto Vulcan, [••]tting into his remembrance, that redemption muſt come [••]om a womankinde, but his eares were ſtopp'd. Theſe [•]wo conferring together, Heaven opened it ſelf, there came [••]rth a huge beaſt with many thouſands of young ones, de[••]oyed the Executioner, opening his jaws wide, devoured [•]he Lady Venus, which made the interceſſion, crying with a [••]ill voice: My deſcent is of women, my ſeed is ſcattered [••]r and near by them, thereby they repleniſhed the Earth: [•]heir Soul is kinde to mine, therefore my deſire is to feed [••]d to drink of their bloud. The beaſt having ſpoken thus [••]oud, it went into a room, ſhut the door behinde, all its young ones followed it: where more food muſt be pro[•]ded for them, and they drunk the firſt incombuſtible O[•] that meat and drink they eaſily digeſted, whereof mo[•] young ones were bred, which was continued long, ſo th[•] all the World was filled by them.

All theſe things thus hapning, there was a meeting of [•]veral learned men, which endeavoured to interpret [〈◊〉] declare, what hapned, and what had been ſpoken, that th[•] might the better underſtand theſe myſteries: none of the[•] was able to perform that buſineſſe, for all of them had [••]veral thoughts concerning theſe things: at laſt there ſto[••] up an ancient man, as white as ſnow in his hairs, clad [〈◊〉] purple from top to toe, on his head he had a Crown, in [〈◊〉] midſt of it was ſet a precious Carbuncle, he was girt wi[••] the girdle of life, and went bare-footed, ſpoke with a ſp[•]cial ſpirit, which was hid in him, his ſpeech and ſayi[••] went through his body and life, his Soul felt it to the i[•] moſt. This man ſtept on high, deſired the Aſſembly to [〈◊〉] ſilent, and to give diligent attention unto him, becauſe [〈◊〉] was ſent from above to declare unto them theſe writing and to make it known unto them in a Philoſophick expre[•]ſion. The Aſſembly being ſilent, he began to ſpeak thus Awaken, O man, and behold the light, that darkneſſe m[•] not miſlead you, the Gods of Fortune, and the great God have revealed unto me in a deep ſleep; How happy is tha[•] man that knoweth a God in their wondrous works, an[•] happy is he, whoſe eyes are opened to behold the ligh[•] which formerly was a darkneſſe unto him. The Gods h[•••] granted two Stars unto men, to lead them unto great wi[•]dom, O man, view them exactly, follow after their Iuſtre[•] becauſe wiſdom is found therein. The ſwift Bird of th[•] South devoureth the heart of the huge beaſt of the Eaſ[•] Make wings alſo unto the beaſt of the Eaſt, as the [〈◊〉] hath of the South, let them be equal one to another, ſo this Eaſtern beaſt muſt be bereaved of his Lyon-ſkin, an[•] his wings muſt vaniſh again, for both muſt enter into th[•] great Salt-Sea, and come forth again in beauty: ſink you[•] diſciples ſpirits into a deep Fountain, which is never with[••]t water, that they alſo may be like unto their mother, [•]hich lieth hid therein, and ſhe came from three into the World.

Hungary hath fi[•]ſt begotten me, Heaven and S[•]a[•]s pre[••]ve me, Earth giveth ſuck unto me: Though I muſt die [•]nd be buried, however the God Vulcan begets me a ſe[•]ond time, therefore Hungary is my Native Countrey, and [•]y mother compaſſe[•]h the whole earth.

This being hearkened unto by the Aſſembly, he ſpake [••]ther thus: make that which is higheſt to be loweſt, that [•]hich is viſible to be inviſi[•]le, and that which is compre[•]enſible to be incomprehenſible, and provide, that the [〈◊〉] moſt become to be the uppermoſt, m[•]ke the inviſible [••]come to be viſible, make the incomprehenſible a pulpa[•]e thing. This is the whole Art, and very perfect, with[••]t any defect: but therein dwelleth death and life, dying [••]d riſing: it is a round Globe, on which the goddeſſe For[••]e lets her Chariot roll about, and bringeth ſalvation of [•]iſdom unto men of God, its true ſenſe is, ALL in ALL; [••]t the higheſt is Judge, which judgeth things eternal.

He that deſireth to know, what ALL in ALL is, let [〈◊〉] make great wings for the earth, put her into a great [••]guiſh, let her ſoar upward, make her flye through the [••]e, and be exalted to the higheſt place of the uppermoſt [••]eaven: then burn her wings with a forcible fire, that the [••]th may fall into the Red Sea, and be drowned therein. [••]en command the Sea to ſtand, exiccate the water by [•]e and aire, reduce it unto earth again, then I ſay, you [••]e ALL in ALL, if you cannot finde this, then feel [〈◊〉] thine own boſom, and about thee into all things, that [〈◊〉] in the World, then you will finde ALL in ALL, [〈◊〉] is of an attractive quality of Mineral, and Metalline [〈◊〉] deſc[•••]ing from Sal and Sulphur, twice begotten of [〈◊〉]: More is not meet for me to ſpeak of ALL in ALL, [〈◊〉] ALL comprehended ALL.

This ſpeech being made, he ſaid further: Beloved men, I hope you have by hearkning unto my voyce learned wiſdom, how, and in what you are to ſeek for the great ſton[•] of ancient Philoſophers, which healeth Leprous imperfec[•] Metals, revealeth unto them a new birth, preſerveth me[••] in health, prolongeth their lives, and by his heavenly power and operation hath kept me alive ſo long, that I a[•] weary of life, and wiſh for nothing but death.

Thanks be to God for his grace and wiſdom, which h[•] hath granted ſo graciouſly unto me ſo long a time: bleſſe[•] be his holy name for ever, Amen. Thus he vaniſh'd awa[•] before their eyes,

After the finiſhing hereof, every one returned ho[••] meditating ſeriouſly on theſe things day and night, and every one wrought according to their ſeveral gifts they received from Gods bounty and goodneſſe, &c.

Hereupon follow the XII. Keyes of BACILIUS VALENTINUS.

Whereby the Doors are opened unto the Ancient ſtone of Philoſophers, where is found that everlaſting Fountain of health, and of wealth.

The firſt Key.

MY friend, you muſt know that impure and defil[••] things are not fit for our work. For their Lepro[••] is no help for furtherance of our work: good things [〈◊〉] hindred in wayes that are unclean. Wares out of Mynes [〈◊〉] worth their money: but if ſophiſticated, they are ma[••] unfit, being adulterated in their former and original op[•][••••]n.

As Phyſicians cleanſe and purge by means of Phyſick the [••]ard parts of the body, expelling all impurities from [••]nce: thus theſe bodies alſo muſt be purified from their [•]urities, that perfection may be operative in our birth. [〈◊〉] maſters require a pure undefiled body, which muſt not [〈◊〉] mixed with any ſpot, or ſtrange matter. For ſtrange [••]itionals are a Leproſie to our Metals. The Kings Crown [••]ſt be of pure Gold, a chaſte Bride muſt be married unto [〈◊〉]. Therefore if you will work through, or upon our bo[••], then take the greedy gray Wolf, which by reaſon of [•]ame ſtands in ſubjection unto valorous Mars: but [••]hing his deſcent, he is a Childe of old Saturn, found Valleys and Hills of the World, is very hungry: caſt be[••] him the Kings body, let him feed upon it: & when he [〈◊〉] devoured the King, then make a great fire, caſt the [•]lfe into, let him be quite burn'd, then the King will be at liberty again: This being done thrice, then the Wolfe [•]onquered by the Lyon, finding no more on him to [〈◊〉] upon, then is our body perfect for the beginning of [〈◊〉] work.

[•]ote, that this is the onely true way convenient to [•]ge our bodies, for the Lion is cleanſed by the Wolves [••]d, and the tincture of that bloud rejoyceth mightily [•]he Lion's tincture, becauſe they are near kin one to [•]ther. When the Lion is ſatisfied, then his ſpirit is, and eyes caſt proud rayes, like the luſtrous Sun, his internal [••]nce is of great ability, and good for all ſuch things you [••]d to apply him unto: and being brought into its due [••]ration, then the ſons of men are beholding unto him, [•]ch were loaden with the falling ſickneſſe, and other diſ[•]s: the ten Lepers run after him, and deſire to drink of bloud of his Soul, and all ſuch that are diſeaſed rejoyce [•••]ly in his ſpirit. For he that drinketh of this golden [•••]ain, feeleth himſelf throughly renewed in his Na[••], all evil things are taken away, the bloud is ſtrength [〈◊〉] the heart receiveth ſtrength, and all the Members are [〈◊〉] full vigour, it openeth all Pores and Nerves, expelling their malignities, that goodneſſe may come into th[•] places.

My friend, you muſt have good care that the Foun[••] of life be kept from muddineſſe; no ſtrange water muſt [〈◊〉] mingled with our Fountain, elſe a miſcreant will be broug[•] forth: and a wholeſom fiſh will be turn'd into a Serpe[••] if by a Medium a Corroſity be joyned, whereby our bo[••] is broken, then let that corroſitiveneſſe be waſh'd awa[•] becauſe Corroſives are not to be uſed for internal diſeaſe[•] becauſe acidities are rather deſtructive; engendring diſeaſ[••] our Fountain muſt be without poiſon: however poyſon [••]pelleth poyſon.

A Tree that bringeth no good fruit, is cut off at t[••] bulk, better twigs are propp'd into, which proppings u[••]ted with the Tree, then its Root, bulk, and twigs bri[••] forth better fruits, which are more [•]holeſome.

The King in the heavenly firmam[•]nt walketh through [〈◊〉] places, but in the ſeventh he keeps his ſeat, for there [〈◊〉] kingly Throne is hang'd with Golden pieces.

If you conceive aright what I do ſpeak, then with t[••] Key you have opened the firſt Lock, and you have driv[••] back the bolt: but if you cannot finde any light in the[•] then no glaſſe eyes will help thee, nor any natural eyes w[••] enable thee to finde out the laſt, which you wanted at fi[••] Further I will not ſpeak of this Key, as Lucius Papi[••] taught and bid me.

The ſecond Key.

IN Courts of great Potentates, ſeveral ſorts of drinks [〈◊〉] found, and none like the other in ſmell, taſte, and [••]lour, becauſe they are of ſeveral preparations: however [〈◊〉] of them are drinkable, becauſe they are fitted for ſeve[••] places, and are neceſſary for the keeping of the Co[••] When the Sun ejaculateth her rayes, ſpreading th[••] [••]der the Clouds, then the vulgar ſpeech is, the Sun draw[••]h water, and it will rain: which being done often, that [••]at proves fertil.

To raiſe to an altitude a magnifick Palace, ſeveral Arti[••]ers and work-men muſt be imployed, before that ſtru[••]ure and the rooms thereof can be finiſhed. For where [•]ones muſt be uſed, there wood is of no uſe.

The dayly ebbing and flowing of the Sea, out of an in[•••]ed love, which it receiveth from above out of the ſtarry [••]aven, is to that end, that Countreys are enriched there[••]: at every return it bringeth great good unto Man[••]de.

A Virgin, which is to be eſpouſed, is ſet out gloriouſly [〈◊〉] ſeveral Garments dreſs't in the beſt manner, that ſhe [••]y pleaſe her Bridegroom: And the band of love may [〈◊〉] the deeper root by a hearty looking one upon the [•••]her: and the Bride joyning with the Bridegroom after [〈◊〉] uſual manner, theſe Garments are put off, and the [••]de keeps onely that, which at her Nativity ſhe had re[••]ed of the Creator.

Even ſo, when our Bridegroom Apollo with his Bride [〈◊〉] is to be married, ſeveral Garments muſt firſt be made [〈◊〉] them, their heads and bodies muſt be well waſh'd with [••]er, which waters muſt be learn'd to be made by ſeveral [••••]llings. For theſe waters do differ very much: ſome [〈◊〉] high; ſome are poor, according to the ſeveral uſes they [〈◊〉] imployed unto; which I intimated, when I ſpoke of [〈◊〉] ſeveral ſorts of drinks uſed in Princes Courts. And [〈◊〉], when the humidity from the earth aſcendeth, and [〈◊〉] ſ[••]ne is drawn up, they conglomerate on high, their [•••]derouſneſſe maketh them fall down, thereby unto the [••]th is reſtored her loſt humidity, which refreſheth the [••]ath, giveth unto her a nouriſhment, whereby the vege[•••]les do ſpring up. Therefore ſome waters in their pre[••]ation muſt be often diſtilled, the abſtracts muſt be of[••] reſtored to the earth, muſt be drawn off again: Even as Euripus doth often diſgorge it ſelf to a cer[••] period.

The Kingly Palace being by ſeveral Artificers a wo[•]kmen raiſed and adorned, and t[•]e glaſſy Sea hath [••]niſhed its courſe, and the Palace is furniſh'd with goo[•] then the King may ſafely enter into, and keep there reſidence.

My friend, no[•]e this very well, that the Bridegroom w[•] his Bride muſt be naked eſpouſed, and therefore the O[••] men[•]s prepared for their cloathing and neceſſary attires their hea[•]s and faces, muſt be taken from them again, [〈◊〉] muſt poſſeſſe the grave in the nakedneſſe, as naked th[•] were born, that their ſeed might not be deſtroyed by [〈◊〉] ſtrange mixture.

At the cloſing of this I tell thee in good truth, yt the m[•] precious water, of which ye Bridegrooms Bath muſt be m[••] muſt be of two contrary Fencers, or contrary materials p[••]pared very carefully, and wiſely. For one Fencer muſt [〈◊〉] the other, muſt be fitted for the fight, the one muſt co[•]q[••] the other. For what availeth it unto ye Eagle, that ſhe ke[••] her neſt alone in the Alpes, where her Chickens by rea[•] of the ſnow are deſtroyed by froſt, which is on the tops theſe Mountains.

But, if you add unto the Eagle the cold Dragon, wh[•] had his dwelling a long time in ſtone clifts, and Subte[••]nean caves, where he crept in and out, both theſe be[•] placed on that Helliſh ſtool, then Pluto will ſo ſtron[•] breath upon, expelling a fiery volatile ſpirit out of [〈◊〉] cold Dragon, whoſe great heat will burn the Eagles feath prep[•]ring a ſweating-bank, that the ſnow on the hig[••] tops of the Mountains do diſſolve and turn into water, t[••] the mineral ba[•]h be rightly prepared, and riches and hea[•] be beſtowed on the King.

The third Key.

WAter deſtroyeth fire, quencheth it quite: if abundance of water be poured into little fire, then fire muſt yield unto water, giving way for the victory unto it. Thus our fiery Sulphur muſt with water be prepared, by Art muſt be conquered, if ſo be that after the ſeparating of the water, the fiery life of our Sulphureous fume ſhall get the triumphing victorie. But here no victory can be obtained, unleſſe the King have beſtowed ſtrength and vertue unto his water, and have delivered unto it the Key of his Court colour, that be be deſtroyed thereby, and be made inviſible: however, at this time his viſible form muſt appear again, but with great diminution of his ſimple eſſence, and great melioration of his condition.

Limmers carry yellow on white, red upon yellow, or a purple colour: though all theſe colours are at hand, yet the laſt is predominant, being the uppermoſt in its degree. The ſame order muſt be obſerved alſo in our Magiſterium, which being done, then you have before you the light of wiſdom, which ſhineth in darkneſſe, and yet burneth not.

For our Sulphur doth not burn, yet giveth a light afar off, neither doth it tinge, unleſſe it be prepared, and tinged freely with its own tincture, to give a further tincture unto weak imperfect bodies of Metals. This Sulphur hath not a tinging quality, unleſſe the tincture be given to it in a fixation: for a weak one cannot victoriſe, the ſtronger keepeth down the weaker, and weak things muſt yield unto ſtrong ones. The concluſion herein is this: a weak and mean thing cannot help another, which is in the ſame frailty, neither can it import any furtherance to the operation of it; can one combuſtible protect another which is of the fame condition! A Protector muſt have a greater power than he, wh[•]m [•]e intend[•] to protect: ſo thing combuſtible muſt [•]e defended by [•]u[•]h, which in their fixation are incombuſtible. He that will prepare our incombuſtible Sulphur of Philoſophers, m[•]ſt be circumſpect t[•] ſeek our Sulphur in a ſubj[•]ct, wherein it lieth incombuſtible, which cannot be, unleſſe the Salt-Sea have firſt ſwallowed the body, and caſt it up again freely, then [•]xalt it to [••]s degree, that it excel with its [•]uſtre all other Stars in H[•]aven, and be in its ſubſtance as rich of bloud, as the Pellican is a[•] the opening of her breaſt, nouriſhing many of her Chiek[•]ns without the weakning of her own body. This is the Roſe of our Maſters, of a Scarlet colour, and the red blou[•] of the Dragon, of which ſo many have written, and is th[••] Purple mantle of the higheſt Commander in our Ar[•], wherewith the Queen of ſalvation is clad and covered, and thereby all needy Metals may be wa[••]'d.

Keep this honourable Mantle with the Aſtral Salt very car[•]fully, which followeth after this heavenly Sulphur, let not any miſchance befall it, impart to it the birds volatile quality, as much as there is needfull, then the Cock will d[•]vour the Fox, which is drown'd in water, or reviveth by fire, and is devoured again by the Fox, where like is requited with the like, (or like is reconciled unto unlike.)

The fourth Key.

ALl fleſh begotten of earth, muſt be deſtroyed and reurn to earth again, which it was at firſt: then that terreſtrial Salt affordeth a new birth by heavenly reſuſcitation: for if there be nor firſt an earth, there cannot enſue any reſurrection in our work. For earth containeth that natural Balſam, and is the Salt of thoſe, which ſought for it by a knowledge of all things, (or univerſal knowledge) the final judgement of the world will be by fire, which the great Creator at firſt made of a nothing, muſt by fire he turn'd to aſhes again, out of theſe aſhes the Phoenix bring[••] forth again her Chickens; For theſe aſhes contain real[••] the true Tartar, which muſt be diſſolved, after its diſ[••]lution the firm and ſtrong lock of the royal room is [••]ened.

New heaven and new earth are made after that great [•]ombuſtion, or burning, and the new man will appear more [••]loriouſly, than he was in the firſt world, becauſe in the [••]ther he is clarified.

If aſhes and ſand be well ripened and digeſted by fire, [••]en the Artiſt turneth it into glaſſe, which afterward [•]oldeth in the fire; in its col[•]ur it is like unto a tranſparent [••]one, an[•] looks no more like any aſhes: this is a huge myſtery unto ignorant men, but not ſo to knowing men, for they found it to be ſo by their dayly experience and Manuals.

Men burn Lyme of ſtones, to make uſe of them for a Cement in buildings; before the fire prepareth it thereunto, it is a ſtone, and cannot be uſed for a Cement, as long as it is a hard ſtone: fire bringeth ſtones unto a maturity, and receiveth from the fire a very hot degree, whereby it is ſtrengthned, and groweth ſo potent, that there is almoſt nothing comparable unto it, the fiery ſpirit of Lyme.

Every thing being reduced into aſhes, affords by Art a Salt, if you at the anatomizing of it, are able to keep apart its Sulphur and Mercury, and make reſtitution thereby unto the Salt, according to A[••], [•]hen fire will bring it to that again, which it was before its Anatomy and deſtruction: worldly wiſe men call this a folly, counting it meer lies, call it a new Creature, which to do man hath no grant of God, themſelves underſtand it not, that this Creature hath been formerly ſo, and the Artiſt ſheweth its increaſe onely by the ſeed of Nature.

That Artiſt, which wanteth aſhes, cannot make any Salt for our Art: becauſe our work cannot be made lively without Salt, for the coagulation of things worketh meerly the Salt. As Salt preſerveth things from putrefaction, even ſo the Salt of Philoſophers protecteth Metals, that they canno[•] be reduced to a nothing, unleſſe their Balſom die, and the natural Salt ſpirit be gone, then their body would be dea[•] and nothing further could be effected with it, becauſe th[•] Metalline ſpirits are gone, and at their natural departin[•] left a dead dwelling, into which no more life can b[•] brought again.

Note further: you that intends to learn this Art, that th[•] Salt out of aſhes is of great eff[••]cie, many vertues are hi[•] therein: Yet the Salt availeth nothing, unleſſe his innermoſt be turn'd to the out-ſide. For the ſpirit alone is it which affordeth power and vertue, the naked body is abl[•] to do nothing here; if you know to get that, then you have the Philoſophers Salt, and their incombuſtible Oyl, o[•] which many have written before me great Volumes.

And if of theſe Artiſts were ne're ſo many,

Whoſe aime at me is directed onely,

Yet few of them in their ſucceſſe were bleſt,

To fathom all vertues that lie in my breaſt.

The fifth Key.

THe life of earth maketh ſpring up Vegetables, and he that ſaith that the earth is dead, tells an untruth, for a dead thing cannot impart any livelyneſſe to another, and the increaſe is at a ſtay in dead things, becauſe the ſpirit of life is fled: The ſpirit is the life and ſoul of the earth, which dwelleth in her, receiveth its efficacy upon earthly things from heavenly Aſtrals: for all Vegetables, Metals, and Minerals receive their power, increaſe, and nouriſhment from the ſpirit of the earth. For the ſpirit is the life, which is fed by Aſtrals, which further imparts a nouriſhment unto growing things: as the Childe lieth hid in the Mothers Womb, and is fed there by the Mother: ſo the earth feedeth Minerals alſo, which lie hid in her belly by a ſpirit, which ſhe receiveth from above: the earth doth afford no power per ſe, but the living ſpirit, which dwelleth in her doth it, and if ſhe ſhould want her ſpirit, then ſhe were dead, and could afford no nouriſhment, becauſe from her Sulphur, or fatneſſe, the ſpirit is taken away, which preſerveth living powers, and driveth forth Vegetables, and other growing things by a nutriment.

Two contrary ſpirits may dwell together in one ſubject, but are ſtill at variance, as in Gun-powder, which being lighted, theſe two ſpirits fly aſunder, making a great noiſe, fly in the aire, are no more diſcerned, no body can tell whither they are gone, or what they had been, if it were not known experimentally, what manner of ſpirits they were, and in what ſubject they dwelled.

From hence you may learn, that life is a meer ſpirit, and all theſe things, which the ignorant world counteth to be dead, muſt be brought into an incomprehenſible viſible ſpiritual life, and muſt be preſerved therein, if ſo be that life ſhall work with life, and the ſpirits, which are fed and nouriſhed by a heavenly dew, are born of one elemental, heavenly, and earthly ſubſtance, which is called materia informis.

And as there belongeth unto Iron a Magnet, which by reaſon of its own wonderfull inviſible love is of an attractive quality: ſo our Gold hath a Magnet alſo, which Magnet is the prima materia of our great ſtone. If you conceive aright of this expreſſion, then you may be bleſſed with riches in this world.

One Declaration more I muſt hold forth unto you in this Chapter: Man that looketh into a glaſſe, ſeeth a reflexion of his image, but is not palpable, ſave the glaſſe, the party looked into: ſo from this matter muſt be expell'd a viſible ſpirit, which is incomprehenſible, the ſame ſpirit, I ſay, is the root of the life of our body, and the Mercury of Philoſophers, out of which the liquid water in our Art is prepared, which in its compoſition you muſt make again material, and muſt prepare it by certain means, from the loweſt to the higheſt degree into a tranſcendent Medicine. For our beginning is an up-ſhut comprehenſible body, its middle is a volatile ſpirit, and in the goldiſh water there is no corroſiveneſſe at all, whereby our Philoſophers prolong'd their lives: but the end thereof is a ſuperfix'd Medicine for humane, and metalline bodies; this knowledge indeed fitteth Angels better than man: True, men attain unto that knowledge alſo, obtaining the ſame of God by their earneſt prayers, who are thankfull unto him for it, and beneficial to the needy.

At the cloſing I tell thee for a certain truth, that one work muſt beget the other: for our matter at the beginning of our work muſt in the beſt manner be purified, then opened, broken and deſtroyed, and reduced to duſt and aſhes. All this being done, then make of it a volatile ſpirit, as white as ſnow, and another volatile ſpirit, as red as bloud, theſe two ſpirits contain a third, and yet are but one ſpirit; theſe are the three ſpirits, which preſerve and encreaſe life, joyn theſe together, miniſter to them their natural neceſſary meat and drink, keep them warm in the bed of wedlock to their perfect birth, then you will ſee and finde what the Creator and Nature hath allowed for you to know. And know, that I never made ſo plain a revelation: God hath incorporated more operation and wonders into Nature, than thouſands may give credit thereunto. There is a Seal and Lock ſet before me, to ſay no more, that others alſo may write of marvellous things, which naturally are permitted by the Creator, which ignorant men count to be ſupernatural. For natural things have their firſt beginning from ſupernatural ones, yet both together are found to be meerly natural.

The ſixth Key.

MAn without a woman is but half a body, and ſo the woman without the man is but half a body neither, [•]or each apart can preduce no fruit: but living together in a matrimonial way, then is their body perfect, and by their ſeed they may expect an increaſe.

If too much ſeed be caſt on a ground, that that Acre i[•] over-burthened, no firm fruit can be expected, and if there be too little of the ſeed, then is the fruit thin alſo, the weeds grow then abundantly, from thence alſo no great goodneſſe can be expected.

He that will not burthen his conſcience with any ſins in ſelling of wares, then let him be juſt in his dealing, having juſt meaſures and juſt weights, then he avoideth mens curſes, and gets the prayers of the poor. In deep waters men are eaſily drown'd, and ſhallow waters are ſoon dried up by the heat of the Sun, and are good for nothing.

For the obtaining of a wiſh'd aim and ſcope care muſt be had, that a certain meaſure, or quantity be taken in the conjunction of the Philoſophick liquid ſubſtance, that the greater quantity do not over-lay the leſſer part, and be ſuppreſs't thereby, and the increaſe and growing of it be obſtructed. Let the leſſer be not too weak for the bigger, let there be an equal domination. Too much rain ſpoyleth the fruit, and too great drought hindreth true maturity. Therefore if Neptune hath prepared a perfect water-Bath, then take a juſt quantity of your aqua permanens, have a great care, you do neither too much nor too little. A double fiery man muſt be fed with a white Swan, theſe muſt kill each other, and both muſt revive again, and the a[•••] of the four corners of the World muſt poſſeſſe three parts of the up-ſhut dwelling of the fiery man, that the Swans ſong may be heard, when ſhe harmoniouſly ſings her farewell; then the roaſted Swan will be a food for the King, and the fiery King will be in great love with the pleaſant voice of the Queen, and embrace her friendly out of a great love, and take his fill of her, both will vaniſh, and enter into one body.

They ſay, two men can maſter a third, eſpecially if they have elbow room to vent their malice. Hereupon you are to know from a true ground, that a double winde muſt come, called Vulturnus, then a ſingle winde, called Notus, theſe come ruſhing from the Eaſt and South, and will keep a ſtir, being robb'd, and their blowing, or motion allayed, and the aire is turn'd into water, then you may confide, that a ſpiritual one will become a bodily one, and that the number by the four ſeaſons of the year in the fourth heaven will predominate, after the ſeven Planets have finiſh'd their ruling, and will finiſh its courſe in the neathermoſt dwelling of the Palace, and will hold in the higheſt fiery examen, then the two, which went forth, ſuppreſſed the third and conſumed him.

Here in our maſtery is requiſite an exact knowledge: for the diviſion and conjunction muſt be rightly hit, if ſo be you intend to get riches by your Art, and the Scales muſt not be falſified by unequal weights. This is the Rock ſpoken of in this Chapter, that you muſt finiſh it without any defect, by the artificial heaven, with air and earth, with the true water and ſenſible fire, ſetting in equal weights, whereof I inform you really.

The ſeventh Key.

NAtural calidity preſerveth mans life: for when natural heat is gone, then the life is at an end. Natural fire, being moderately uſed, is a defence againſt cold: but an immoderate heat is deſtructive. There is no neceſſity that [••]e Sun ſhould touch the earth corporally with her whole ſubſtance, it is ſufficient that the earth be ſtrengthned by [〈◊〉] rayes, which ſhe ejaculateth unto the earth, and doth [•]hat way her duty, for in that way ſhe is of a ſufficient [••]cacy, to perform her office, bringing things unto matu[•••] by her digeſtion: for the diſtance of the aire bringeth [〈◊〉] ſolar rayes into a temperature, ſo by means of the aire [〈◊〉] fire doth work, and the aire worketh by the help of [〈◊〉].

Earth produceth nothing without water, and water [••]thout earth can riſe nothing neither: now as theſe two [••]nnot be one without another in the generating of [•]its, neither can fire be without aire, nor aire without [•]e: fire is liveleſſe without aire, and without fire the aire [••]nnot ſhew its due calidity and dryneſſe.

The Vine at its laſt ripening hath need of a greater ſolar [••]at, than it hath at the beginning of the Spring: and if [•]e Sun hath a good operation in the Harveſt, then the Vine [•]elds a better and ſtronger ſap, which it doth not, if the [••]ns heat be defective. The vulgar counteth all things [••]ad in Winter, becauſe froſt hath locked up the earth, [••]at nothing can ſpring up: but when the Spring-ſeaſon ap[••]oacheth, and the Sun in her aſcending breaketh the froſt, [〈◊〉] things turn to life again, Trees and Herbs appear in the [••]elineſſe, and the Animals, which hid themſelves from [••]e froſt, creep forth again out of their caves and holes, [•]egetables afford their new fragrancy, their operation is [•]pparent in their pleaſant bloſſoms of ſeveral colours. [•]hen the Summer worketh further, brings theſe bloſſoms [〈◊〉] further ripeneſſe into fruits, upon which enſueth a rich [••]rveſt; for the which thanks are due to the Creator, which [•]et theſe periods unto Nature.

Thus one year worketh after the other, ſo long till [•]he Architect thereof pulls them down, and the Inhabitants [•]f the earth be exalted by the glory of God, then all earth[•]y. Nature will be at an end in her working, and in its place [••]ere will be an infinite eternal one. When the Sun in Win[••]r goeth further off from us, ſhe doth not diſſolve ſo well the great ſnow, but approaching nearer to us, th n [〈◊〉] aire groweth warmer, and the ſnow is eaſily melted, a[•] being turn'd to water, it is gone: for the weake[•] muſt g[••] way unto the ſtronger: The ſame order muſt be obſerved the government of the fire, that the moiſt liquor m[•]y [〈◊〉] be exiccated too ſuddenly, and the Philoſophick earth [〈◊〉] not to ſoon mel ed and diſſolved, elſe your wholeſ[•]m fiſ[••] would turn into Scorpions: and if you intend to be a ri[••] miniſter in your office, then [•]ake firſt your ſpiritual wa[••] on which the ſpirit moved at the beginning, ſhut the do[•] of the ſtrong hold upon him, becauſe this heavenly pl[••] will be beſieged by earthly enemies, your heaven muſt [〈◊〉] guarded with three Bull-warks, onely one entrance m[••] be ſtrongly guarded with a watch. All this being finiſh'[•] then kindle the light of wiſdom, and look for your pen[••] you loſt; let the light be of that bigneſſe, as you ſee the[•] is occaſion for. For you muſt know tha[•] creeping b[•••] and worms have their dwelling in a cold and moiſt e[•••] their condition and no are leads them thereunto: h[•]mans habitation is upon earth, according as his temp[•••] and mixed condition [••]quireth, but Angelical ſpirits [••]ving not an earthly, but an Angelical body, not being i[•] ſubjection unto a ſinfull fleſh, as man is, are placed into higher ſtation, are able to endure both heat and cold in t[••] upper and neather Region, without any moleſtation: an[•] when man is clarified, then will he be able to do like the[••] heavenly ſpirits: God ruleth heaven and earth, and worket[•] all in all.

If we prove good governours of our Souls, then we ſha[••] be Gods Children and Heirs, to accompliſh that which i[•] impoſſible for us to do now: which cannot be done, unleſſ[•] all the water be exſiccated, and heaven and earth togethe[•] with the men, be judged by fire.

The eighth Key.

NO fleſh, be it of mans, or of beaſts, can bring any further increaſe, or propagation, unleſſe it come firſt into putrefaction. So all Vegetables, unleſſe their ſeeds be brought into putrefaction, cannot be augmented: Many beaſts and worms are generated by putrefaction, this myſtery in Nature deſerves admiration! Nature permitteth this, becauſe this living increaſe is for the moſt part found in the earth, which with other Elements are ſo raiſed by ſpiritual ſeeds. To prove this with examples, women in Villages know to give inſtances in that particular: for theſe cannot hatch any Chickens, unleſſe they put the Eggs into putrefaction. If bread be put into honey, then the Ants are bred, which is one of Natures myſteries! It is ſeen ordinarily that Maggots do breed in fleſh, in men, and horſes, and ſuch like Carcaſes, in Apples, Pears, &c. and who is able to relate all the kindes of worms, which are generated by putrefaction.

Some Vegetables alſo grow in certain places, where never ſuch grew formerly, nor were they ſowed in thoſe places, onely by putrefaction they were produced, the reaſon of it is, that the earth in ſuch places it inclined thereunto, and is impregnated thereby, which the ſyderial qualities have infuſed, and wrought a ſeed into, eſpecially, which ſeeds putrifie in the earth, and by the elemental operation do generate a corporeal matter, according to that matter's quality. Thus the Aſtrals together with the Elements may raiſe a new ſeed, which was never before any, which ſeed by a further putrefaction may be encreaſed. But unto [〈◊〉] is not ſo much granted, as to ſtir up a new kinde of ſeed, becauſe the operation of the Elements, and the [••]ſtral ſubſtance he hath not at command, to faſhion what [〈◊〉] ple[••••] th[••] ſeveral ſorts of Herbs are generated meerly by putrefaction: And whereas the Countrey people holding it a meer cuſtom, do not take it into a further conſideration, nor imagine they any cauſe for it; therefore among the vulgar is it become meerly a cuſtomary buſineſſe. Bu[•] you, which ought to know more than ordinary people muſt conſider further of it, and learn to know the cauſ[•] and ground thereof, how, and from what theſe living Creatures are generated by putrefaction; not to know i[•] becauſe it is uſual; but rather to know, it is a myſtery i[•] Nature, becauſe every life cometh from pu[••]efaction.

Every Element per ſe hath its corruption and generation. Let the Artiſt be inform'd, and learn the ſufficient ground, why in every Element the other three are hid: for air[•] containeth fire, water, and earth, which though it ſeemet[•] incredible, yet is it a truth: and fire containeth aire, water, and earth: and earth containeth water, aire, and fire; elſ[•] they would not generate; water alſo containeth aire▪ earth, and fire: though every Element is per ſe, yet ar[•] they mix'd: all which is found true at diſtillings, wher[•] theſe Elements are thus ſeparated.

To make this appear to the ignorant, which may cr[•] out, that I ſpeak meerly lies: if you intend to learn th[•] Anatomy of natural things, and to ſeparate the Elements I tell thee for a truth, that at the diſtilling of earth ther[•] cometh firſt the Element aire, being the higheſt; then a a certain progreſſe, there comes the Element water; th[•] fire lieth hid in the aire, becauſe both are of a ſpiritua[•] ſubſtance, love and embrace one another intirely; the eart[•] remaineth in the bottom, in which lieth hid the gloriou[•] Salt. When you diſtil any water, aire and fire cometh ove[•] at firſt, then the water; the body of the earth abideth i[•] the bottom.

The El[•]ment fire, if it be driven into a viſible ſubſtance by extraction each may be received apart. In like manne[•] in the aire the other three Elements do dwell. For non[•] of theſe can be without aire; earth can produce nothin[•] without ai[•]e, fire doth not burn, nor hath it any life wit[•]out aire; neither can water produce any fruit without aire. Neither can aire conſume any thing, nor exſiccate any moiſture, unleſſe it be done by a natural heat, which is [•]n the aire: being heat and warmth is found in the aire, [•]herefore needs muſt the Element of fire be in the aire. For all hot and dry things are proper for the fiery ſubſtance [•]f things: he that denieth this truth, underſtandeth no[•]hing in Natures myſteries, neither doth he know any [•]round of their properties.

You muſt conceive if any thing ſhall be generated by [•]utrefaction, it muſt be in this manner: Earth is brought [•]y a ſecret moiſture into a corruption, which is the begin[•]ing of putrefaction; for without moiſture, which is the Element water, no true putrefaction can happen: Now if [•]ny breed ſhall come from thence, it muſt come from a [•]arm quality, as the Element fire muſt kindle, and ſpread [〈◊〉] ſelf; for without a natural heat nothing can be gene[•]ated: and if that breed ſhall have a living breath and mo[•]ion, the ſame cannot be without aire: for if aire ſhould [•]ot be cooperative, then the firſt compoſition, out of which [•]he breed ſhould come, would be choaked and periſh, by [•]eaſon of want of aire. Thus you ſee plainly, that perfect Creatures cannot be without any of the four Elements, the [•]ne ſhewing its operation in the other, which they pro[•]nce in and at putrefaction; for from henceforth nothing [•]an be brought to life without the ſame. To make this [•]ppear to be true, that to a perfect birth and generation, [••]re are requiſite all four Elements.

Then note, that as Adam the firſt man being created by [•]he Creator of a Limus terrae, there appeared not as yet ane [••]ſible life, before God had breathed on him; then a lify [•]ppeared in that clod of earth, in that earth was the Salt, [••]at is the body, the inbreathed aire was Mercury, the ſpi[••], by this inbreathing the aire preſently afforded a due [••]d convenient calidiry, which was Sulphur, that is, fire, [••]en it ſtirr'd; Adam ſh[•]wed by this ſtirring, that there was [•••]ſed into him a living Soul. For fire cannot be without aire, the water was corporated in the earth, becauſe this muſt be together of neceſſity, elſe no life, and muſt ſtand in an equal proportion. Thus Adam was firſt builded and begotten out of earth, water, aire, and fire, of a ſoul, body, and ſpirit, raiſed of Mercury, Sulphur, and Salt. So Eve[•] the firſt woman, the Mother of us all was of the ſame compoſed, being taken from Adam; thus Adam and Eve were builded, which you muſt note very well.

To come now again unto putrefaction, the ſeeker in Philoſophy is to know, that in like manner no Metalline ſeed can work, nor be augmented, unleſſe that Metalline ſeed be firſt in, and of it ſelf without any ſtrange addition, or mixture may be brought into a full putrefaction, no more than the ſeeds of Animals and Vegetables can bring their increaſe without putrefaction. The ſame Metals alſo muſt reach unto their perfect operation by the help of the Elements; not that the Elements are the ſeed, but the Metalline ſeed, which had its deſcent from a heavenly aſtra[••] Elemental ſubſtance, and is come to a corporality, and m[•••] by the Elements be further brought into ſuch corruptio[•] and putrefaction.

Note this alſo; wine containeth a volatile ſpirit: a[•] whoſe diſtilling its ſpirit cometh firſt, and its phlegme at laſt: but wine being by a continued heat turn'd into Vinegar, then its ſpirit is no more ſo volatile as before, and at the diſtilling of Vinegar its phlegme and aquoſity cometh firſt, and its ſpirit at laſt, though the ſame matter be in the Veſſel, yet its condition is altered, being no more a wine, but by putrefaction is tranſmuted into Vinegar, and that which is extracted from wine, is of another nature and operation, than that which is drawn from Vinegar. For i[•] Vitrum Antimony be extracted with Wine, or ſpirit o[•] Wine, it cauſeth many ſtools by purging, and vomits alſo, becauſe its venom is not yet quite broken nor deſtroyed: but if Antimonial glaſſe be extracted with diſtilled Vinegar, that extraction is of a deep colour, this Vinegar being abſtracted in Bal[•]e[•] Mari[•], and the yellow remai[•••] powder being well dulcified with diſtilled water, to get off all its accroſity, then you have a ſweet powder, which cauſeth no more any ſtools, but is a rare Medicine of admirable efficacies, may well be held for miraculum Medicinae.

This wonderfull powder in a humide place doth diſſolve into a liquor, which in Surgery is of great uſe, and efficacie, curing ſymptoms without cauſing any pains at all unto the parties, of which enough at this preſent.

At the cloſing of this note this principally, that there are heavenly Creatures begotten, whoſe lives are preſerved by Aſtrals, are fed by the four Elements, afterward t[•]ey die, and putrifie, which being done, the Aſtrals, by means of the Elements infuſe into theſe putrified bodies again a life, which may turn again to a heavenly one, which ſets up his habitation in the higheſt place of the firmament: which being done, you ſhall ſee that the life and body of the earthly is conſumed by the heavenly, and that earthly body is entred into a heavenly one.

The ninth Key.

THe higheſt Planet of Heaven, Saturn by name, hath in our Magiſterium the leaſt authority, and yet is the chiefeſt Key of the whole Art, and is ſe[•] on the lowermoſt ſtep: though he ſwinged himſelf by a nimble flight to the higheſt altitude beyond all lights, however, at the clipping of his feathers he muſt be brought to the loweſt [••••]re, and his corruption muſt be the way for his meliora[••]on, black muſt be turn'd into white, and white muſt be brought into red, and muſt paſſe, and run throu[•]h all the colours of the other Planets, and to attain in the end to the Court colour of the triumphing Ki[•]g.

And I ſay thus much: though Satu[•]n looks of a deſpicable condition, and is in great contempt, yet doth he contain all vertues and ſtrength, [•]f his glorious ſubſtance which is of an extraordinary coldneſſe, be driven into th[•] running fiery Metalli[••] body, to b[•]reave that of its running life, and bring it to a plyable body as Satu[•]n himſelf is however of a far better fixation; which tranſmutation hath it's original, and certain period by Mercurie, Sulphur, and Salt. Some may hold this to be hardly underſtood, and i[•] is a hard ſaying: ſeeing the matter is mean, men muſ[•] ſtretch thei[•] w[•]s in this point: an unequal ſtate muſt be in the world, ther[•] muſt be a difference betwixt maſter and ſervant and muſt be diſtinct in their ſervice.

Saturn containeth ſeveral ſorts of colours brought forth by Art, as black, gray, white, yellow, red, and others beſides: ſo the Philoſophers matter muſt overcome and paſſe through many colours, before ye great ſtone can be exalted unto it's perfection: for as often as there is opened unt[•] the fire a new gate for entrance, ſo often it affords a new faſhion for a Garment as for a booty, ſo that at laſt the poo[•] Labourer attaineth unto riches, needs no more to go borrowing of his Neighbours for a livelyhood.

When Lady Venus poſſeſſeth her Kingdom, and according to cuſtom obſerved in Royal Courts, diſtributeth the Offices, as is fitting, then they make appearance in thei[•] glory: Muſica beareth a flag of red colour, on which is painted Charity beautifull in a green Garb: in her Cour[••] Saturn is in the place of the Steward: when he is in his Office, then Aſtronomy carrieth a black flag before him; o[•] which is painted Fides, in a yellow and red Garb. Jupiter with his Scepter is Marſhal; Rhetorica beareth before him a flag of gray colour, on which is painted Spes curiouſly ſet out in colours. Mars is expert in warlike affairs, beareth ſway in a fiery thirſti[••]ſſ[•]; Geometry beareth before him a bloudy flag, on which is painted Fortitude, in a red Garb: Mercurie is Chancellour, Arithmetica beareth a flag before him of all manner of colours; on it, is painted Temp[•]rantia, dreſs't in colours. Sol is Vice-Roy of the Kingdom, Grammatica beareth a yellow flag before him, on it, is painted Juſtitia, ſet out in a Golden piece: this Vice-Roy, (though there is more loyalty ſhewed unto him in the Kingdom) yet Queen Venus in her tranſcendent illuſtrious ſplendour overcome's him. Lune hath her luſtre alſo; Dialectica beareth before her a Silver coloured white gliſtering flag; on it, is painted Prudentia in an Azur-Garb. Becauſe Lune's huſband died, ſhe got the Office by inheritance, will not ſuffer Venus to bear ſway any longer, called her to an account of her Stewardſhip; into whoſe aid and aſſiſtance comes in the Chancellour, and a new government is eſtabliſhed, and both bear ſway above the noble Queen; the meaninng is, one Planet muſt diſpoſſeſſe and diſplace the other from his glory, office, place, and power, that the beſt at laſt may riſe to the higheſt power, and in their beſt fix'd colour, beſtowed on them by their firſt mother out of an innate conſtancy, love and amity may get the victory. Then is the old world paſt, and a new world is come in it's place, and one Planet hath conſumed the other ſpiritually; onely the ſtrongeſt hold out by means of the food which others afforded, and ſo two and three are conquered by One.

For a final cloſing you are to underſtand, that you muſt pull up the heavenly Scales; put into the one Aries, Taurus, Cancer, Scorpio, and Capricorn: into the other you muſt lay Gemini, Sagittary, Aquarius, Piſces, and Virgo; then procure that the Gold-rich Leo do leap into the lap of Virgo; then the Scale will weigh down the other: then let the XII. Signs of Heaven with the Septemtriones come into an oppoſite Aſpect; then after the appearance of all manner of colours, there will happen a conjunction, and the greateſt will come to the meaneſt, and the meaneſt unto the greateſt.

If there ſtood all the worlds nature

Meerly in one onely figure,

And Art could not mend that form,

Then the worlds wonders were forlorn,

And natures qualities could not be ſhewed,

But it's otherwiſe, for which God be praiſed.

The tenth Key.

IN our ſtone which I have made, and others alſo along before me, are lockt up Elements, all mineral and metalline forms; yea, all the properties and qualities of the world: for in it there muſt be found the greateſt and moſt forcible heat; for by its great internal fire the cold body of Saturn is warm'd, and by that kindling and heating is tranſmuted into the beſt Gold. There muſt be found in i[••] alſo the greateſt coldneſſe, becauſe it being added to Venus, it allayeth the degree of her heat, and doth coagulate quick Mercury, and in that coagulation alſo is he tranſmuted into the beſt Gold. The reaſon of it is, becauſe nature hath infuſed all theſe qualities into the matter of our great ſtone, which qualities muſt be digeſted and brought unto maturity per gradus ignis, and attain unto the higheſt perfection, which comes not to paſſe, unleſſe Mount Ae[•]na in Sicilia be conſumed by its fire, and no more cold be felt on the ſuppoſed high Mountains, Hyperboreis, which place may be called alſo Filictus.

Fruits being pluckt off before they be fully ripe, are nought, and ſhrink, and are unfit for uſe: if a Potter doth not ſufficiently burn his Potters wares, what uſe can theſe be put unto? The ſame condition is our Elixar in: it muſt have allowed a due time, it muſt not be ſhortned in its welfare, no falſe thing muſt be impoſed upon, elſe an aſperſion of unworthineſſe will be caſt upon it. For if bloſſoms be pluckt off, we are ſure that no fruits will grow on ſuch Trees. Therefore making haſte in our Magiſterium is not good, a haſtning man ſeldom doth any good work in our Art, becauſe by making haſte good things are ſpoyled. Let no ſeeker be deceived by greedineſſe, either to take out or to pluck off things before their time, that the Apple [••]p [••]t out of his hand, and the ſteel of it ſtay in his hand: for [〈◊〉] good troth, if our ſtone be not ſufficiently ripened, then [•]hat matters can it produce to any ripeneſſe?

In water the matter is diſſolved, and is united by putre[••]ction, in the aſhes it getteth bloſſoms, in ſand its ſuper[••]ous humidity is exſiceated: a conſtant fire produceth a [••]ed ripeneſſe, it doth not follow from hence that Balneum [•]ariae, horſ-dung, aſhes, and ſands muſt needs be uſed, but [••]ely the degrees and regiment of fire muſt in ſuch a man[•]er be obſerved. For the ſtone is made in an empty Fur[••]ce, of a threefold guard, firmly cloſed and lockt up, and [••]eſted by a continued fire, ſo that all vapours and fumes [•]o vaniſh, and the Garment of honour appear in a rare [••]lendour, abide in a place in the neathermoſt part of hea[••]n, and its running come to a ſtand. And when the King [〈◊〉] lift up his arms not any longer, then the glory of the [•]orld is conquered, the King is come now to an everlaſt[••]g fixedneſſe, nothing can endanger him any more, be[•••]ſe he is become invincible, unto which I ſay thus: your [••]th being diſſolved in its own water, muſt be exficca[•]ed [〈◊〉] a meer heat, then the aire will in breath a new life into [〈◊〉], that being made lively, then you have a matter, which [••]ſt needs go by no other name, than by the great ſtone of [••]e world, which penetrateth humane and metalline bo[••], like a ſpirit is an Univerſal Medicine without any [•]e[••]t: it expelleth evil things, keeping and preſerving the [••]od [•]ones: it is alſo a tranſmutation of bad things unto [•]oodneſſe, its colour draweth from a tranſparent redneſſe [••]to a dark brown, from a ruby-red to a garnate: and it [〈◊〉] of an exceeding ponderouſneſſe, and over-weighty.

He that getteth this ſtone, let him return thanks unto the Creator of all Creatures, for ſuch a heavenly Balſa[•], let him [〈◊〉] the good uſe of both toward himſelf and toward others, ſo [•]hat his needs being ſerved here withall, may fare well alſo [〈◊〉] the other world: God be praiſed for his unexpreſſible [•]enefits for ever more. Amen.

The eleventh Key.

THis Key intimateth our great ſtone's augmentation, which I hold forth unto thee by way of compariſon▪ There dwelt in the Orient an excellent Champion, called Orpheus, which was mighty rich, and had great Dominions, he took in marriage his own ſiſter, by name Eurydice, mad[•] uſe of her as his wife. Becauſe he could not get any iſſu[••] by her, the cauſe whereof he thought to be the ſin, he committed in chooſing his own ſiſter to be his wife: he beſough[•] the Higheſt conſtantly in great earneſtneſſe, wreſtling with him for a bleſſing in that kinde.

Being one time taken with a deep ſleep, in his dream there came a flying man unto him, by name Phoebus, he toucht his feet, which were very warm, and ſaid to him▪ Thou noble Champion, thou haſt travelled over many Kingdoms and Countreys, many Cities and potent Dominions, and haſt undergone great hardneſſe at Sea, and hazardedſt many battles in War, which made thee to attain unto that gallant ſtate, and wert choſen before others to be dignified with honour, and gotteſt many applaudings by reaſon of thy valiantneſſe thou ſhewedſt in thoſe warlike actions: therefore the father in heaven hath commanded me, to ſhew unto thee that thy prayers were heard, and haſt obtained this grant; thou art to take the bloud out of thy right ſide, and the bloud of thy wife's left ſide, and the bloud which did ſtick in the hearts of thy Father and Mother, theſe are but two by natures right, and are but one ſort of bloud, unite theſe together, and let it enter again into the globe of the ſeven wiſe Maſters cloſed nakedly, then is the mighty one fed with his own fleſh, and drencht with his own bloud of honour. If thou proceedeſt well herein, then haſt thou a great inheritance, and begetteſt an infinite multitude, deſcending from thine own body. Yet know, that the laſt ſeed, in the eighth revolution of the [••]me, the firſt ſeed out of which thou art made in the begin[•]ing, will bring its courſe to an end: if thou doſt this oftner, [•]nd beginneſt alwayes de novo, then thou ſhalt ſee thy Chil[•]rens Children. A Macrocoſme g[•]nerated by Microcoſme, is [•]lentifully filled, and the Kingdom of the great Creator is [••]lly poſſeſſed.

This being ended, Phoebus fled away, the Champion a[•]akened, who aroſe from his bed, and having done all, as [••]e was commanded, the Champion in all his undertakings [•]ad not onely good ſucceſſe and proſperity, but God bleſ[••]d him alſo in his wife with many Children; theſe alſo by [•]heir fathers Teſtament grew great and famous, and that [•]obility remained in that generation, and they were bleſ[•]ed with great riches for ever.

Seeker of this Art, if you have underſtanding and wit, [•]ou need not any further interpretation of it; if you want [•]hat wit, blame not me, but thine own ignorance: for I am [•]orbid to open the lock any further, I muſt, and will obey. [•]t is ſet down plain enough for ſuch, whom God intends to [•]leſſe in it: And it is ſo plain, that men will hardly believe [•]t. The whole proceſſe I have ſet down figuratively after that manner, which my Predeceſſors have obſerved before [••]e, and I have done it more plainly then they did, becauſe [〈◊〉] concealed nothing: if you have pull'd away the veil from [•]our eyes, you will finde that, which many ſought for, and was found of very few. For the matter is named altoge[•]her, the beginning, middle, and end of the proceſſe is ſhewed alſo.

The twelfth Key.

A Fencer who knoweth not well how to uſe his Weapons, muſt needs be beaten by him, that knoweth better how to uſe them; he that learned in the Fencing School perfectly how to uſe all manner of Weapons, [〈◊〉] will get the Garland in that School.

In like manner he, who hath obtained by Gods bleſſ[••] a tincture, but knoweth not how to uſe it, be is in the [•]a[••] condition with the Fencer, which is unſkilfull in the uſe [〈◊〉] his Weapons.

This being the twelfth and laſt Key, tending to the [••]niſhing of this my book, I will not lead thee any longe[•] by Philoſophick allegorical expreſſions, but will reve[••] unto thee the Tinctur's Key in a full real proceſſe. Therefore follow this my enſuing Doctrine: which is thus;

The Medicine and well prepared Philoſophers ſtone being made of the true Virgins milk, which was fully p[••]pared, then take one part of the beſt and fineſt Gold, ca[••] through Antimony, laminate it very thinly, as poſſibly [〈◊〉] may be beaten, put theſe together in a Veſſel, or meltin[•] For, at firſt let your fire be gentle for xij hours, then let [〈◊〉] continually be in the melting for three dayes and night[•] then the purged Gold and Stone is turned into a meer Medicine, of a ſubtile ſpiritual penetrating qualitie; for without the ferment of Gold ye Medicine, or Stone cannot wel[•] make the tincture, being too ſubtile and too penetrative [〈◊〉] but being fermented with its like, then the made tinctur[•] hath gotten an ingreſſe to work into the other. Then take one part of the prepared ferment to thouſand parts o[•] melted Metal, which you intend to tinge: I tell you for [〈◊〉] certain truth, all will be tranſmuted into perfect fix'd Gold[•] for the one body willingly embraceth the o her, though it be not of the like, yet joyneth with it by force, and muſt be like unto it, and like muſt be gotten of like.

He that maketh uſe of this means, to him are revealed all fixations: the porches at the ends have their iſſues; no Creature comparable unto this ſubtility: it is ALL in ALL, according to its Natural deſcent containeth and poſſeſſeth all what may be found under the Sun.

O! beginning of the firſt beginning! conſider the end [〈◊〉] O! end of the laſt ends conſider the beginning: forget not to [•]emember the middle in all fidelity: God the Father, [〈◊〉], and holy Ghoſt grant unto you things needfull for [••]r Spirit, Soul, and Body.

Of the firſt matter of the Philoſophers Stone.

FINIS.

A ſhort way and [•]EPETITION Of former Writings of BASILIUS VALENTINUS.

With an Elucidation thereof, touching the Philoſophers Stone.

Wherein is plainly demonſtrated the true light unto Philoſophie.

Whereunto are annexed real informations of the qualities, and preparations of Mercury, Antimony, Vitriol-water, common Sulphur, unflak't Lime, Arſenic, Sal-peter, Tartar, Vinegar, and Wine.

LONDON, Printed Anno Domini, MDCLVI.

[〈1 page missing〉]

be ſure to finde the true way unto the ſheep-fold. I hav[•] written no more then I ſhall bear record unto, and own a[•] the day of Reſurrection

This ſhort way is faithfully ſhewed in the following inſtruction, in a plain dealing expreſſion, waving an el[•]quen[•] ſtile.

I have told you formerly, that all things are compoſed o[•] three, viz. of Mercury, Sulphur, and Salt, and it is ſo, as [〈◊〉] told.

But note alſo, that the Stone is made of one, two, three four, and fi[•]e: by the word five, I mean the Quint-eſſence by the word four, are underſtood the Elements: by three are meant the principles: by two is meant the double mercurial ſubſtance: by one is meant the firſt principle of a[•] things, which proceedeth from the word at the firſt Creation, Fiat, Let there be.

Some may hold theſe expreſſions to be very intricate as if there were no ſenſe nor ground for it what hath bee[•] ſaid: for the clearing theſe doubts, I will ſpeak briefly o[•] Mercurie, ſecondly of Sulphur, thirdly of Salt; for theſe a[••] the principles of the matter of our Stone.

In the firſt place you muſt note, that common Mercu[••] doth not avail here; but our Mercurie is made of the be[••] of Metals, by the ſpagyrick Art, as pure, ſubtile, clear, a[•] any Well-water of a Cryſtalline tranſparence, without an[•] impurity: make of it a water, or incombuſtible Oyl: fo[•] Mercuries firſt beginning was a water, as all Philoſopher bear record unto my ſaying: in this Mercurial Oyl muſt be diſſolved it's own Mercury, out of which that water wa[•] made: this Mercury muſt be precipitated with it's own Oyl[•] then you have a double Mercurial eſſence.

Note, I hold in my ſecond Key that Gold after it is pu[••]fied according to the Tenor of the ſecond Key, muſt be reduced into a ſpecial water, and then reduced into a ſubtill Calx, of which the fourth Key doth ſpeak, this Calx muſt b[•] driven over through the Helmet by a ſpirit of Salt, and precipitated again, and by reverberating muſt be brought to powder; then its own Sulphur may enter the better into its own being [•]nd eſſence, will be friend with it; for theſe love extreamly one another: thus you have two ſubſtances in one, which is called the Philoſophers Mercurie, and is but one ſubſtance. This is the firſt ferment.

Now followeth Sulphur to be ſpoken of.

FOr this Sulphur you muſt look in the like Metal; that Metal muſt be purified, deſtroyed in a reverberating fi[•]e, extracted from its body, not leaving any corroſiveneſſe in it, of which I gave a hint in the third Key: this Sulphur muſt afterwards be diſſolv'd in its own bloud, from which it ſelf had a fixedneſſe, intimated in the ſixth Key, after a due quantity; which being done, then you diſſolved and fed the true Lion with the bloud of the green Lion. For the fixed bloud of the red Lion is made of the unfixed bloud of the green Lion: theſe are of one Nature; the unfixed bloud maketh the fixed one to be volatile, and the fixed one maketh the volatile to be fixed, even as it was before its diſſolution, let it ſtand together in a gentle heat, that all the Sulphur be diſſolved; then you have the ſecond ferment, feeding fixed Sulphur with an unfixed one; all Philoſophers agree with my ſaying: the ſame is driven over with ſpirit of wine, and is as red as bloud, being called aurum potabile, where no reduction to any body can be expected any more.

Now I declare alſo, what the Philoſophers Salt meaneth.

SAlt cauſeth fixation and volatility, according [〈…〉] [••]lered and prepared. For the ſpiri[•] ou of Salt [••]d [•]artar, if the ſame be drawn forth without additionals, by means of diſſolution and putrefaction maketh all Metals volatile, opening them into a true quick Mercury, according to the Tenor of my Manuals. The Salt of Tartar per ſ[•] fixeth mightily, eſpecially if the heat of Calx vive be incorporated with it, for both are of a high degree for fixation, The Vegetable Salt of wine hath this fixing quality and according to a ſpecial preparation, bringeth fixed thing[•] to a volatility: which is a myſtery in Nature, and a miracl[•] in the Philoſophick Art.

If there be a Salt made of Mans Urine, which drinks nothing but wine; this Salt being volatile, brings fix'd thing[•] alſo to a volatility, brings them over, but doth not fix them. Though that party had drunk nothing but wine, out o[•] whoſe Urine the Salt is made, yet that Salt differs much from that, which is made of Tartar, for man made in his body one tranſmutation, namely, he turned the V[•]getabl[•] Salt into an Animal ſpirit of Salt, making fleſh, fatneſſe, &c▪ as horſes and other beaſts do feeding on graſſe, hay, &c.

Item, Bees make Honey of the beſt flowers and Herbs ſo it is with the reſt. The reaſon of this Key lieth in putrefaction, from whence this ſeparation and tranſmutatio[•] hath its Original.

Ordinary ſpirit of Sal[•], being driven over in a ſpecial manner, maketh Gold and Silver volatile, if a ſmall quantity o[•] Dragons ſpirit be added thereunto, diſſolveth them, bringeth them over through the Helmet, the like doth the Eagl[•] with the Dragon ſpirit, which creepeth in and out at th[•] ſtone clifts: but if any thing be melted with Salt, before i[•] ſpirit be ſeparated from the body, then it fixeth rather than it maketh volatile.

I ſay thus alſo, if the ſpirit of common Salt be unite[•] with ſpirit of wine, and both are drawn over a third time▪ then he loſeth its tartneſſe, and groweth ſweet. This prepared ſp[••••] doth not corrode the Solar body, but bein[•] poured on a ſubtile prepared Gold Calx, it extracteth i[•] higheſt red tincture, which being made right, can brin[•] white Lune into that colour as its former body was, from [•]hich it was firſt taken: the former body can recover i[•]s [•]olour, if the inticing Venus be moved, as being born from [•]hat ſanguinity and deſcent, it is needleſſe to ſpeak of this [•]ny further.

Note further, that Salt-ſpirit deſtroyeth Lune alſo, bring[•]th her into a ſpiritual ſubſtance, according to my inſtru[••]ion, after it is prepared, out of which afterward potable [•]une is made, which ſpirit is appropriated unto the ſpirit [•]f Lune and Sol, as man and wife, by means of the conjun[•]tion of the Mercurial ſpirit, or his Oyl.

The ſpirit ſticketh in Mercury, ſeek for the tincture in [•]ulphur, and for the coagulation in Salt, then you have the [••]ree principles, which can beget a perfect body, that is, [••]e ſpirit in the Gold fermented with his own Oyl, Sulphur [•]ound abundantly in the noble Venereal quality, inflameth [••]e fixed bloud gotten of her: the ſpirit of the Philoſo[•]hers Salt affords victory unto coagulation; it is true, the [•]pirit of Tartar, and the ſpirit of wine, and the true acetum [••]e able to effect much; for the ſpirit of acetum is of a cold [•]uality, and the ſpirit of Calx vive is very hot, theſe are of [•]ontrary diſpoſitions. Now I ſpoke according to Philoſo[•]hers cuſtom: it is not fit for me to be more plain, and to how to the world, how the doors of wiſdom are bolted.

For a fare-well, take this in ſincerity; ſeek f[•]r your mat[•]er in Metalline ſubſtances, make of them a Mercurie, fer[•]ent with Mercury one Sulphur, ferment that with its [•]wn Sulphur, bring that into an order with Salt, drive [•]hem over joyntly, joyn all proportionably, all will become [•]ne, which at firſt came from one, coagulate, and fix it in [•]ontinued heat, augment, and ferment a third time, ac[•]ording to the Tenor of my two laſt Keyes, then you will [•]inde the end you look for, how this tincture is to be uſed, [•]et the twelfth Key ſatisfie you with its certain proceſſe.

Thanks be to God.

FOr a final upſhut, be certified, that our of black Sat[•••] and bountifull Jupiter, there can be driven over a ſpi[•]i[•] which is afterward brought into a ſweet Oyl, as the nobleſ[•] part of it, which in particular taketh away the running quality in Mercury, making him fix, and bringing him into a melioration; of this I told you in my other wri[••]ngs.

Additionals.

HAving thus your matter, then look well to the fire and govern it artificially: for that is of the greateſ[•] concernment at the end of the work. Our fire is not a common fire, and our Furnace is not a common Furnace▪ Though Philoſophers before me have written, that our f[•••] is no common fire: however, I tell to thee in good earneſt, that according to their cuſtom they kept ſecret all myſteries, becauſe the matter is con[•]emptible, and the worl[•] is of a facility, which by a government of fire is furthere[•] and accompliſhed; therefore they forbore to tell the plai[•] truth.

Lamp-fire made of ſpirit of wine availeth nothing, th[•] exp[••]ces [•••]reof would moun[•] [•]xceedingly. Ho[•]ſ dung i[•] bu[•] a ſpoyling, which cannot finiſh the work by any perfect or certain degrees.

Furnaces of ſeveral ſorts are uſeleſſe: for in our three fold Furnace are obſerved certain degrees: let Praters no[•] pr[•]vail of thee with ſuch F[•]rnaces: for our Furnace is [〈◊〉] plain one, our fire is [•]pl[•••] fire, and our matter is a plai[•] matter, the gl[•]ſſe is likened to the circumference of th[•] ear[••]ly Globe, you need not to look any further for more informa[••]on concerning the fire, its government, and th[•] Furnace.

For he that hath the matt[•]r, will ſoon finde a Furnace; [〈◊〉] that hath Meal, wil[•] ſoon meet with an Oven; needs not [〈◊〉] take further care for baking of bread.

There is no need to write more books of it, onely look [•]ell to the government of the fire, learn to diſtinguiſh be[•]ween cold and warm; if you are expert and exact herein, [•]hen your work will be well finiſh'd, and the Art brought [•]o its end. The Creator of na[•]ure be praiſed for ever. [•]men.

Of Mercurie.

THere are ſeveral ſorts of Mercurie. Me[•]cury of Animals and Vegetables is meerly a fume of an incompre[•]enſible being, unleſſe it be caught, and reduced to an Oyl then is it for uſe. But Mercu y of Metals is of another [•]oncition, as that alſo of Minerals: though the ſame alſo [•]ay be compared wi[•]h a [•]u[•]e, yet is it comprehenſible [•]nd running. One Mercury is better and nobler than the other: for the Solar Mercury is the beſt of them all; next unto that, is the Lunar Mercury, and ſo forth. There is a difference alſo among Salts and Sulphurs: among the Mine[•]al Salts, that carrieth away the Bell, which is made of Antimony: and that Sulphur, which is drawn from Vitriol, is preferred before all others. Mercu[•]y of Metals is hot and dry, cold and moiſt, it containeth the four qualities.

There are Medicaments prepared of it, of a wonderfull efficacy, of ſeveral ſorts and forms, which is the reaſon, why there is ſuch a variety of vertues therein: in Mercury lieth hid the higheſt arcanum for mans health, but is not to be uſed crude, but muſt firſt be prepared into its eſſence. He is ſublimed with Copper-water, and is further reduced into an Oyl. There is an Oyl made of it per ſe, without any corroſiveneſſe, which is pleaſant and fragrant: ſeveral [•]orts of Oyls with additionals can be made of it, good for many things. It is prepared alſo with Gold, being firſt made into an amalgame there is made a precipitate of it in w[•]ter, wherein it diſſolveth green, like unto a ſmarag'd, Chryſolith: the volatile Mercury ſerveth for outward u[•] if a ſeparation is made by ſome means, and is brought i[•] to ſubtile clear liquor, & then to a red brown powder, a[•] its received corroſiveneſſe is ſeparated, then it may dow[•] for other uſes.

The mixed Mercury ſerveth for inward uſe.

Mercury being purg'd, is precipitated with the bloud Venus, is well digeſted with diſtill'd Vineger, and thus [〈◊〉] corroding quality is taken off: Have a care what quanti[••] you miniſter, if it being given in a true doſe, then it doth [〈◊〉] part ve[•]y well: but for its operation, it is not equally ſu[•]limed unto the fixed, its coagulation is ſound in Satu[••] his malleableneſſe is apparent, when he is robb'd of h[•] life: he containeth his own Tincture upon white and re[•] being brought in his fix'd coagulation unto a white bod[•] is iug'd again by Vitriol-water, and being reduced un[••] Gold, is graduated by An[•]imony. Though that blou[••]-thi[•]ſty [••]on Captain with his Spear aſſaulteth Mercuri[•] ve[••] much, yet he alone cannot conquer him, unleſſe co[••] Saturn come in to hide him, and Jupiter command t[••] peace with his Scepter. Such proceſſe being finiſh'd, the[•] the Angel Gabriel, the ſtrength of the Lord, and U[•]iel th[•] light of God hath ſhew'd mercy un[•]o humble Michael, the[•] Raphael can make right uſe of the higheſt Medicine, nothing can prevail againſt ye Medicine. Thus much be ſpoken of Mercurie: now I winge my ſelf from hence, and f[••] to a place where froſt and heat can better be tolerated, an[•] endured.

Of Antimony.

IT falleth very difficult to Mechanicks, to have done learning with their compaſſes: becauſe that great Architec[•] JEHOVAH hath reſerved many things for his ow[•] power. In the ſame condition we finde Antimony, it is [•]ery difficult to finde out all the myſteries that are hid [••]erein; its vertue is miraculous, its power is great, its [•]olour hidden therein, is various, its crude body is poyſo[•]ous, yet its eſſence is an antidote againſt poyſon, is like [•]nto Quick-ſilver, which ignorant Phyſicians can neither [•]omprehend, nor finde; but the knowing Phyſician belie[•]eth it to be true, as having made many experiments with it.

This Mineral containeth much of Mercury, much of Sulphur, and little of Salt, which is the cauſe why it is ſo [•]rittle and applyable: for there is no malleableneſſe in it, by reaſon of the ſmall quantity of Salt, the moſt amity it beareth unto Saturn is by reaſon of Mercurie; for Philoſophers Lead is made out of it, and is affected unto Gold, by reaſon of its Sulphur: for it pu[•]geth Gold, leaving no impurity in it; there is an equal operation in it with Gold, if well prepared, and miniſtred to man Medicinally: it flieth out of the fire, and keeps firmly in the fire, if it be prepared accordingly. Its volatile ſpirit is poyſonous, purgeth grievouſly not without damage unto the body; its remaining fixedneſſe purgeth alſo, but not in that manner, as the former did, prov[•]keth not to ſtool, but ſeeketh meerly the diſeaſe, where ever it is, penetrateth all the body and the Members thereof, ſuffers no evil to abide there, expels it, and brings the body to a better condition.

In brief, Antimonie is the Lord in Medicinals, there is made of it a Regulus our of Tartar and Salt, if at the melting of Antimony ſome Iron-filings be added, by a Manual uſed, there cometh forth a wonderfull Star, which Philoſophers before me, called the Signat-ſtar: this Star being ſeveral times melted with cold Earth-ſalt, it groweth then yellow[•]ſh, is of a fiery quality, and of a wonderfull efficacie: this Salt afterward affords a liquor, which further is brought to a fix incombuſtible Oyl, which ſerveth for ſeveral uſes.

Beſides, there are made of common Regulus of Antimony curious flowers, either red, yellow, or white, according [〈◊〉] the fire hath been govern'd. Theſe flowers being ex[•••]ed, and the extract, without any addition per ſe being dr[•]ven into an Oyl, have an admirable efficacy. This extraction may be made alſo with Vinegar of crude Antimony, or of its Regulus; but it requireth a longer time, neith[••] is it ſo good as the former preparation.

And being reduced into a Philiſtaea, there is a glaſſ[•] made of it per ſe, of which I made mention in my eig[••] Key, which is extracted alſo; then abſtracted, there remaineth a powder of incredible operation, which may ſafely be uſed, after it hath been edulcorated. This powder being diſſolv'd, healeth wounds, ſores, &c. cauſing n[•] pains: this powder being extracted once more with ſpiri[•] o[•] wine; or driven through the Helmet, with ſome other matter, affords a ſweet Oyl; to ſpeak further of it is needleſſe.

Antimony is melted alſo with cold Earth-ſalt, diſſolv'd, and digeſted for a time in ſpirit of wine, it affords a whit[••] fix'd powder, is eff[•]ctua[•] againſt morbus Gallicus, breaks inward Impoſtums; it hath ſever[•]l vertues beſides. You muſt learn to prepare Antimony your ſelf, lay hands on, dive into it's inward qualities, you will meet with wonderfull matters [•]for my conſcience will not ſuffer me to diſcover all it's qualities: I deſire not [〈◊〉] lo[••] the Phyſicians curſes upon me, which were at great expences, and toyled much in burning of Coals about its preparation, if I ſhould rob them of their lively-hood. Therefore learn thou alſo, as thy predeceſſo[••] did; ſeek as I have done; then you will finde alſo, what others have told of.

There is made an Oyl alſo of Antimony, the flyi[•] Dragon being added thereunto, which being rectified [•••]ice, then it is prepared: t[••]ugh a Cancer were neve[•] ſo b[•]d, [•]nd the Wolf never ſo bit[••]g, yet theſe with all their fellow[•], be they Fiſtula's, or ol[•] Ulcers, muſt fly and be g[•]ne; [••]e little powder of the flyi[•]g Dragon prepared with the L[•]ons bloud[•], muſt be miniſtred alſo, three, or four Grains for a Doſe, according to the parties age and complexion.

A further proceſſe may be made with this Oyl with the [••]dition of a water, made of ſtone Serpents, and other ne[••]ſſary ſpices, not thoſe which are tranſported from the In[••]s: this powder is of that efficacie, that it radically cureth [•]ny Chronical diſeaſes.

There is made a red Oyl of Antimony, Calx vive, Sal ar[•]oniac, and common Sulphur, which hath done great cu[•]es [〈◊〉] old Ulcers: with ſtone Salt, or with common Salt, there [〈◊〉] forced from Antimony a red Oyl, which is admirable good [〈◊〉] outward Symptoms.

There is made a ſublimate of Antimony, with ſpirit of [••]tar and Salmiac, being digeſted for a time, which, by [•]eans of Mars, is turn'd into quick Mercury. This Anti[••]onial Mercury hath been ſought of many, but few have [••]otten it: which is the reaſon why its praiſe is not divulg'd, [•]uch leſſe is it's operative quantity known: if you know [••]w to precipitate it well, then your Arrow will hit the [•]ark, to perform ſtrange matters; it's qualities ought not [〈◊〉] be made common.

It is needleſſe to deſcribe it's combuſtible Sulphur, how that is made of Antimony, it is eaſie and known: but that which is fix'd, is a ſecret, and hidden from many. If an Oyl be made of it, in which it's own Sulphur is diſſolv'd, and theſe be fix'd together, then you have a Medicine of rare qualities, in vertue, operation, and ability, far beyond Vegetables.

Quick ſilver being imbibed with quick Sulphur, melted with Antimony for ſome hours in a Wind-oven, the Salt of the remainder being extracted with diſtill'd Vinegar, then you have the Philoſophers Salt, which cureth all manner of Agues.

There is an acetum made of Antimony, of an acidity, as other acetums are; if it's own Salt be diſſolv'd in this acetum, and diſtill'd over, then this acetum is ſharpned, which is an excellent cooler in hot ſwellings, and other inflamed Symptoms about wounds, eſpecially if there be made an Unguent of it together with anima of Saturn.

The Quinteſſence of Antimony is the higheſt Medicin[•] the nobleſt and ſubtileſt found in it, and is the fourth p[••] of an Univerſal Medicine. Let the preparation of it [〈◊〉] ſtill a myſtery, its quantity, or Doſe is three Grains, the [〈◊〉] belong four inſtruments to the making of it, the Furnace the fifth, in which Vulcan dwelleth, the Manuals and th[•] government of fire afford the ordering of it.

You Phyſicians, if you be wiſe, ſeek out this Medicine i[•] that ſubject, where it lieth in, and may be found beſt, an[•] moſt effectual. I forbear to ſpeak further of Antimony, l[•] Justinian judge of the reſt.

Of Copper-water.

IF I could prevail with Apollo to be mercifull, and to giv[•] liberty to his Muſe to be my aſſiſtance in the deſcribing of Art and wiſdom, then would I bring in an offering unto Minerva, whereby the Gods of wiſdom might take notice of a gratefull minde for their gifts they had beſtowed; and I would write of a mineral, whoſe Salt is ſet forth in the higheſt manner, whoſe great and good qualities are of that tranſcendency, that reaſon is not able to comprehend, or to conceive of them. It went generally by the name of Copper-water, to make the meaning and ſenſe of it plain; let men know, and be thus informed of it, that Vitriol containeth two ſpirits, a white, and a red one: the white ſpirit is the white Sulphur upon white, the red ſpirit is the red Sulphur upon red; He that hath ears let him hear!

Obſerve it diligently, and remember every word, for they are of a large extent, every word is as ponderous as a Centner ſtone. The white ſpirit is ſowr, cauſeth an appetite, and a good digeſtion in a mans ſtomach. The red ſpirit is yet ſowrer, and is more ponderous than the white, in its diſtilling a longer fire muſt be continued, becauſe it is fixer in its degree. Of the white by diſtilling of Sulphur of Lune is made argentum potabile. In the like manner the [•]ld, being deſtroyed in the ſpirit of common Salt, and [•]de ſpiritual by diſtilling, and its Sulphur taken from it, [••]d joyned with a red ſpirit in a due Doſe, that it may be [••]ſſolved, and then for a time putrified in ſpirit of wine, to [〈◊〉] further digeſted, and often abſtracted, that nothing [•]main in the bottom, then you have made an aurum po[•]bile, of which great volumes have been written, but very [•]w of their proceſſes were right. Note, that the red ſpirit [•]uſt be rectified from its acidity, and be brought into a [•]eetneſſe, ſubtilly penetrating of a pleaſant taſte and ſweet [•]agrancy.

I have told, you now great matters, which ſlipp'd from [•]e againſt my intention, the ſweet ſpirit is made of Sul[•]hur of Vitriol, which is combuſtible, like other Sulphur, [•]efore it is deſtroyed: for the Sulphur of Philoſophers, [••]ote it well) is not combuſtible; its preparation needs [•]ot to be ſet down, being eaſie, requireth no great pains or great expences, to get a combuſtible Sulphur out of [•]itriol.

This ſweet Oyl is the eſſence of Vitriol, and is ſuc[•] a [•]edicine, which is worthy the name of the third pillar of [•]he univerſal Medicine. The Salt is drawn from Colchotar, [•]nd is diſſolved in the red, or white Oyl, or in both, and is [•]iſtill'd again, if it be fermented with Venus, it perform[••] its office very well: for it affords ſuch a Medicine, [•]hich at the melting tingeth pure Iron into pure Copper.

Colchotar of Sulphur affords true fundamentals unto [•]ealing of periſh'd wounds, which otherwiſe are hardly [••]ought to any healing: and ſuch ſores, which by reaſon of [〈◊〉] long continued white redneſſe will admit of no healing, [•]olchotar affords an ingreſſe thereunto, ſetting a new foun[•]ation; that quality and vertue is not in the Colchotar, but [•]he ſpirit together with the Salt are the Maſters, which [•]well therein.

There is made of Copper and V[•]rdigreece a Vitriol of a [•]igh degree, and is far ſpread in its tincture: There is a Vitriol made of Iron alſo, which is of a ſtrange quality: Iron and Copper are very nigh kind one to another, bel[•] together, as man and wife; this myſtery ſhould have b[•] concealed, but being it is of great concernment, I could forbear but to ſpeak of it.

Vitriol corroded with Salmiac, in it's ſublimation th[•] ariſeth a combuſtible Sulphur, together with it's Mercu[••] of which there is but little, becauſe it hath moſt of S[•]phur. If the ſame Sulphur be ſet at liberty again by [〈◊〉] Eagle, with ſpirit of wine, there can be made a Medicine it, as I told you formerly of it. Though there be a nea[•] way to make a combuſtible Sulphur out of Vitriol, as of precipitation upon a precedent diſſolution, by the Salt, liquor of Tartar, as alſo by a common lixivium made Beech-aſhes; yet this is the beſt reaſon, becauſe the b[••] of Vitriol is better, & more opened with the Key of ye Eag[••] There are other myſteries hidden in Vitriol, which in y[•] operative quality are excellent, and are known apparent as Venus and Mars bear real record in their ſpirits, the ſa[•]d[•]th knowledge Sol and Lune: but I do not intend at t[•] time to write a perfect book of Chirurgerie: and to ma[••] rela[••]o[••] of particulars, in commendation of Vitriol: I ha[•] already written too much of it, you are to learn and ſear[•] alſo; you will finde that Vitriol needs no Proctor to ſpe[•] for it, and it will ſufficiently inform you of an abſolu[•] Chirurgick book, contained in its nature as a third part [〈◊〉] the univerſal, againſt all manner of diſeaſes.

In the cloſing hereof I tell you thus much, that there not found in its nature, neither cold nor moiſt quality, b[•] is of a hot and dry ſubſtantial quality, and is the reaſon, w[•] by its ſuper-abounding calidity it heateth other thing[•] digeſteth them, and at laſt it bringeth them to a full m[•]turity, the fire being continued for a certain time.

The things I w[•]ite of Vitriol, I have not begg'd nor bo[•]rowed from other mens writings, but found them ſo in [〈◊〉] long continued practick, whereby nature enabled me become a Sooth-ſayer, by permiſſion of the Higheſt Creat[••] that that nobly inplanted quality might be avouched b[•] a [••]thfull and true evidence of one of her devoted Diſci[•]es.

And I ſpeak thus much for a memorandum, that if Paris [•]n keep ſafely Helena without troubles, that th[•] noble Ci[•] of Troja in Greece be no more ruined and d ſtroyed, and [•]riamus together with Menelaus be no more afflicted and di[•]racted thereby, then Hector and Achilles will agree well [•]ough, to obtain that roya[•] Race, without going to war [•]t it, and be Poſſeſſ[•]rs of [•]ha[•] Monarchy in their Chil[••]ens Children, and their off-[•]pring and poſterity for the [••]nlarging of their Dominions, by increaſing their riches [•]finitely, againſt which no enemy dareth ſtir.

Of common Sulphur.

THe uſual common Sulphur is not ſo perfectly exalted in it's degree, and brought unto maturity, as it is found in Antimony and Vitriol. There is made of it [••]er ſe, an Oyl againſt putrid ſtinking wounds, deſtroying [•]nd killing ſuch worms, which grow in them; eſpecially if [•]at little Salt in it be diſſolved from its Sulphur.

There is made of it a Balſam with Sallet Oyl, or Oyl of [••]uniper, in like manner with the white ſpirit of Terpen[••]ne, and is of a red colour, is made thus: take flowers of [•]ulphur, made with the Colchotar of Vitriol, digeſt them [•]r a time in horſ-dung, or any other way; this Balſam may [•]afely be uſed for ſuch, that are in a Conſumption of the [•]ungs, eſpecially if rectified ſeveral times with ſpirit of [••]ne, drawn-over, and ſeparated, that it be bloud red. This Balſam is a preſervative againſt corruption and rotte[•]eſſe.

The Quint-eſſence of Sulphur is in a Mineral, where a [•]ulphureous flint is generated: this beaten peebles being [••]t in a glaſſe, and on it be powred a ſtrong Aquafort, made of Vitriol and Salpeter, and let diſſolve what may [〈◊〉] diſſolved, abſtract that water, the remainder muſt be w[••] dulcified, and reverberated to a redneſſe, pour on th[••] ſpirit of wine, extract its tincture, afterward circulate [〈◊〉] a time in the Pellican, let all the eſſence of Sulphur be [••]parated, it ſtayeth below the ſpirit of wine, like far Sall[•] Oyl, by reaſon of its ponderouſneſſe: its Doſe of ſix Grai[•] is found to work ſufficiently. If y[•]u dig[•]ſt in this eſſen[••] of Sulphur, Myrrhe, Aloes, and other Spices, it extrac[•] their vertues, and makes it into a Balſam, which ſuffers [〈◊〉] fleſh, or other parts that are ſubject unto putrefaction, [〈◊〉] fall into rottenneſſe, for which cauſe the Ancients have p[•] this name to it: Balſamus mortuorum.

Thus I cloſe to ſpeak any further of combuſtible Sulphu[•] There may be made an Oyl of it, which is found very uſ[•]full, the Sulphur muſt be ſublimed in a high inſtrum[••] with a good heat, which ſublimation in a long tim[•] changeth into a Liquor, or Oyl, ſtanding in a humid place[•] but being I do not intend to uſe any prolixity of words, [〈◊〉] let it reſt ſo. There may be cocted a Liver out of commo[•] Sulphur, which is turn'd unto milk: and it may alſo [〈◊〉] changed into a red Oyl, with Lin-ſeed Oyl; many other M[•]dicinals may be made out of Sulphur: Its flowers, eſſenc[•] and Oyl, are preferred before the reſt, together with th[•] white and red fixed Cinober, which are made of it, becau[••] in them is found a mighty vertue.

Of Calx vive.

THe ſecrets of Quick-lyme is known to few men, an[•] few there are, which attained to a perfect knowledg[•] of its qualities: but I tell to you a real truth, that thoug[•] Lyme is contemptible, yet there lieth great matters therein, and requireth an underſtanding Maſter, to take out of [〈◊〉] what lieth buried in it; I mean to expel its pure ſpiri[•] which collaterally ſtands in affi[•]ity wi[•]h Minerals, is able to binde, and help to make fix the volatile ſpirits of Minerals: for it is of a fiery eſſence, heateth, concocteth, and bring[•]th unto maturity in ſhort time, when in many years they could not be brought to it: the g[•]oſſe earthly body of [•]t doth not do the fear, but its ſpirit d[•]th it, which is drawn out of i[•]: this ſpirit is of that ab[•]li[•]y, that he bindeth and fixeth other volatile ſpirits. For note, the ſpirit diſſolveth Oculi Can[•]rorum, diſſolveth Cryſtals into a l[•]quor[•] theſe two being duely brought into an [•••]ite per monum diſtilla[••]onis (I will ſay nothing [〈◊〉] this time of Diamonds and ſuch [••]ke ſtones) that wa[•]er diſſolveth and breaketh the ſtone [〈◊〉] the bladder, and the Gou[•]y T[••]t[•]r ſettled into the [•]oyn[•]s of hands and feet, ſuff rs not any Gout to [•]ake roo[•] [〈◊〉] thoſe parts, this rare ſ[••]r t l taught one of my faithfull Di[•]ciples; and the great Chancellor of the invinci[•]le Caeſar [•]s ſtill thankfull unto me for it, and many great perſons [•]eſides.

Quick-lyme is ſtrengthned, and made more fiery, and hot. [•]y a pure and unſoph[•]ſt[•]cated ſpirit of wine, which is often [•]oured on it, and abſtracted again, then the white Salt of [•]artar muſt be grinded wi h i[•] [•]ogether with its additio[••]ls, which muſt be dead, and co[•]tain nothing, th[••] you [••]ll draw a very helliſh ſpiri, i[•] which great myſteries lye [〈◊〉]. How this ſpirit is gotten, I told it, obſerve it, keep it, [••]ke it for a fare-well.

Of Arſenick.

ARſenick is in the kindred of Mercury & Antimony, as a Baſtard in a Family may be: its whole ſubſtance is [•]byſonous and volatile, even as the former two, in its ex[••]rnal colour to the eye, it is white, yellow, and red, but [••]wardly it is adorned with all manner of colours, like to [〈◊〉] Metals, which it was fain to forſake, being forced thereunto by fire. It is ſublimed per ſe, without addition, and alſo in its ſubliming there are added ſeveral other matters, as occaſion requireth. If it be ſublimed with Salt and Mars, then it looks like a tranſparent Cryſtal, but its poyſon ſtayeth ſtill with it, unfit to be joyned, or added to Metals; hath very little efficacie to tranſmute any Metal.

The Subterranean Serpent bindeth it in the Union of fire, but cannot quite force it, that it might ſerve for a Medicine for man and beaſt, if it be further mix'd with the Salt of a Vegetable ſtone, which is with, Tartar, and is made like unto an Oyl, it is of great efficacie in wounds, which are of a hard healing; it can make a Coat for deceitfull Venus to trim her handſomly, that the inconſtancie of her falſe heart may be diſcloſed by her wavering ſervants, without gain, with her prejudice and damage.

When Antimony and Mars are made my companions, and am exalted by them to the top of Olympus, then I afford a Ruby in tranſparence and colour to that, which cometh from Orient, and am not to be eſteemed leſſe than it: if I am proved by affliction, then I fall off like a flower, which is cut off and withers: therefore nothing can be made [〈◊〉] me, to fix any Metal, or tinge it to any profit, becauſe [〈◊〉] forſook my body totally, and diſtributed my Coat, to play and lot to be caſt for it: therefore let no man neither praiſ[•] or diſpraiſe me, unleſſe he have for very hunger taken [〈◊〉] pound of me into the body; though if he gets an Antidot[•] to ſave his life; however, he ſhall get nothing out of Metals by it: in other things he may have a Treaſure in it, unto which few are comparable to it.

I Arſen[•]c ſay of my ſelf at the cloſing hereof, that it is [〈◊〉] very difficult thing, to finde my right and due preparation[•] my operation is felt exceedingly, if made tryal of, and it i[•] a great danger, if ignorant men make uſe of me: he tha[•] can be without me, let him go to my kindred: and if yo[•] can equalize me with them, that I may ſhare with them i[•] the inheritance, then all the world ſhall acknowledge, th[••] my deſcent is from their bloud: but it is a very hard ta[••] for any man, to ſet a ſhepheard into a royal ſeat to make him King. But Patriarchs being deſcended from ſhepheards, and were preferr'd to royal dignities, I will therefore preſcribe no limits, nor p[•]ſſe any judgement: For wrong and right may be found in this leaf.

However, take you notice, that I am a poyſonous volatile bird, have forſaken my deareſt, and moſt confiding friend, and ſeparated my ſelf as a Leper, which muſt live aloof off from other men. Cure me firſt of my infirmity, then I ſhall be able to heal thoſe, which have need of me, that my praiſe may be confirmed by poyſon, and my name for an everlaſting remembrance, to the honour of my Coun[•]rey, is nothing inferior unto Marcus Curtius, and it will be found in the end, in what manner Hannibal and Scipio were reconciled.

Of Salpeter.

TWo Elements are predominant in me, as fire and aire, the leſſer quantity is water and earth; I am fiery, burning, and volatile. There is in me a ſubtile ſpirit, I am altogether like unto Mercury, hot in the in-ſide, and cold in the out ſide, am ſlippery & very nimble at the expelling of mine enemies. My greateſt enemy is common Sulphur, and yet is my beſt friend alſo, for being purged by him, and clarified in the fire, then am I able to allay all heats of the body, within and without, and am one of the beſt Medicaments, to expell, and to keep off the poyſenous plague.

I am a greater cooler outwardly than Saturn, but my ſpirit is more hot than any, I cool, and burn, according as men will make uſe of me, and according as I am prepared.

When Metals are to be broken, I muſt be a help, elſe no victory can be obtained: be the undertakings great, or ſmall. Before I am deſtroyed I am a meer Ice, but when I am anatomized, then am I a meer helliſh fire. If Pluto ca[•] maſter Cerberus, to make him [•]ake his dwelling again in th[•] Iſle of Thule, then he may ſnatch a piece of love from Venus, then Mars muſt ſubmit, and m[•]y live richly with Lu[••] which may equally be exalted to the Crown of the honourable King, and be placed with him in equal honou[•] and dignity.

If I ſhall happily enjoy my end, then my Soul muſt b[•] driven out cunningly, then I do all what lieth in my power of my ſelf alone I am able to effect nothing. But my love [〈◊〉] a jolly woman, if I am married unto her, and our copul[••]lation be kept in Hell, that we both do ſwear well, the that which is ſubtile, flings away all filthineſſe, then w[•] leave beinde us rich Children, and in our dead bodies [〈◊〉] found the beſt Treaſure, which we bequeathed in our la[•] Will and Teſtament.

Of Salarmoniac.

SAlarmoniac is none of the meaneſt Keyes, to open M[•]tals thereby: therefore the Ancients have compared with a volatile Bird, it muſt be prepared, elſe you can do [〈◊〉] ſeats with it; for if it be not prepared, it doth more hu[•] than good unto Metals, carrieth them away out at [〈◊〉] Chimney-hole: it can elevate and ſublime with it's f[••] wings the tincture of Minerals, and of ſome Metals, to t[••] very Mountains, where ſtore of ſnow is f[•]und, uſually ev[•] at the greateſt heat of the Summer, if it be ſublimed wi[•] common Salt, then it purgeth and cleareth, and may uſed ſafely.

He that ſuppoſeth to tranſmute Metals with this Sa[•] which is ſo volatile, ſurely he doth not hit the nail on t[•] head, for it hath no ſuch power: but to deſtroy Meta[•] and make them fit for tranſmutation, in that reſpect it ha[•] ſufficient power: for no Metal can be tranſmuted, unle[•] it be firſt prepared thereunto. My greater ſtrength which lieth in me, may be drawn from m[•] by ſubliming and cementing. The greateſt ſecret in m[•] you will finde, when I am united with Hydra, which is to devour and ſwallow me, that I alſo may turn with h[•]r to be a water Serpent, then have I prepared a Bath for the Nympha, and have gotten power to make ready a Crown for the King, that the ſame may be adorned with Jewels, and may with honour and glory be ſet on his head.

Of Tartar.

THis Salt is not ſet down in the book of Minerals, but is generated of a vegetable ſeed, but its Creator hath put ſuch vertue into it, that it heareth a wonderfu[•]l love [•]nd friendſhip unto Metals, making them malleable▪ it purgeth Lune unto a whiteneſſe, and incorporateth into her ſuch additionals, which are convenient for her, being digeſted for a time with Minerals, or Metals, and then ſub[•]imed and vilified, they all come unto a quick Mercury, which to do, there is not any vegetable Salt beſide it: is [•]ot this a wonderfull thing! That Oratour is yet to be born, which ſhall be of that ability and eloquence as to expreſſe [•]ufficiently all the myſteries hid in it. But to make out of [•]t the Philoſophers ſtone, is no ſuch matter: being it is a [•]egetable, and that power is not given to any of the v[•]ge[•]ables. It is in Medicina a very good remedy, to be uſed [••]wardly and outwardly; its Salt being made ſpiritua[•]l and [•]weet, it diſſolveth and breaketh the ſtone in the bladder, [•]nd diſſolveth the coagulated Tartar of the Gou[•], ſ[•]tled [•]nto the joynts, or any where beſides. It's ordinary ſpi[•]it, which is uſed for opening of Metals being uſed and applied [•]utwardly, alſo layeth a foundation for healing of ſuch Ul[•]ers, which admit hardly any healing, as there are [••]ſ[•••]'s, [•]ancers, Wolves, and ſuch like. I know nothing ni[••] [•]o write of Tartar, for having ſeparated it ſelf, and left it's nobl[•]ſt part in the wine.

Of Vinegar.

IN Alchimy and Medicina, nothing almoſt can be prepared, but Vinegar muſt ſet a helping hand to it. Therefore I thought it convenient to let it have it's due praiſe and commendation, eſpecially to inſert it here in th[•]s treatiſe. In Alchimy it is uſed to ſet Metals and Minerals into putrefaction. It is uſed alſo for to extract their eſſences [〈◊〉] tinctures, being fi[•]ſt prepared thereunto, even as the ſpirit of wine is uſual to extract the tinctures from vegetables.

In P[•]yſick it deſerveth its praiſe alſo, for it taketh the pure from impure, and is a ſeparator, and taketh from the Miner[•]l M[•]dicaments their ſharpneſſe and corroſiveneſſe, fixeth [•]hat, which is vola[•]ile, and is a great defendant againſt poyſon, as I told you, when I ſpoke of the Antimonial glaſſe.

Vinegar is uſed inwardly alſo, and both men and beaſt are benefited thereby: outwardly it is applied to hot inflammations and ſwellings, for a cooler. Spirit of wine and V[•]negar are of great uſe, both in Alchimy and Phyſick, both have their deſcent from the Urine, are of one ſubſtance; bu[•] differ in the quality, by reaſon of putrefaction, the Vinegar got there, of the which I told you formerly.

I muſt acquaint you with one thing, which is this, tha[•] this is not the Philoſophers V negar; our Vinegar, or acetum is another liquor, namely a matter it ſelf: for the ſtone o[•] Philoſophers is made out of Azot of Philoſophers, which muſt be prepared with ordinary diſt[•]ll'd Azot, with ſpirit o[•] wine a[•]d with other waters beſides, and muſt be reduced u[•••] a certain order.

N[••]e this for a memorandum, if diſtill'd pure Vinega[•] be poured upon deſtroyed Saturn, and is kept warm i[•] Marie's-Bath, it loſeth it's acidity altogether, is as ſweet as any Suggar, then abſtract two, or three parts of that Vinegar, ſet it in a Cellar, then you will finde white tranſparent ſtones, like unto Cryſtals, theſe are an excellent cooler and healer of all aduſt and inflamed Symptoms. If theſe Cryſtals are reduced into a red Oyl, and poured upon Mercury, precipitated by Venus, and proceeded in further as it ought; if that be hit rightly, then neither Sol nor Lune will hinder thee from getting riches.

Of Wine.

THe true vegetable ſtone is found in Wine, which is the nobleſt of all vegetables: it containeth three ſorts of of Salt, three ſorts of Mercury, and three ſorts of Sulphur.

The firſt Salt ſticketh in the wood of the Vine, which if burnt to aſhes, and a lixivium made of it to have it's ſalt drawn forth, which muſt be coagulated. This is the firſt Salt.

The ſecond Salt is found in Tartar, if that be incinerated, then draw its Salt forth, diſſolve and coagulate it ſeveral times, and let it be ſufficiently clarified.

The third Salt is this, when the wine is diſtill'd, it leaveth feces behinde, which are made to powder, it's Salt can be drawn out with warm water, each of theſe Salts hath a ſpecial property: in their Center they ſtand in a harmony, becauſe they deſcend from one root.

It hath three ſorts of Mercury, a[•]d three ſorts of Sulphur. The firſt Oyl is made of the ſtem, the ſecond Oyl is made out of crude Tartar, the third is the Oyl of Wine. There is a ſtrange property in the ſpirit of Wine: for without it there cannot be extracted any tr[•]e tincture of Sol, nor can there be made without it any true aurum potabile: but few men know how a true ſpirit of Wine is made, much leſſe can it's property be found out wholly.

Several wayes have been tried to draw, and to get the ſpirit of, Wine without ſophiſtication, as by ſeveral inſtruments and diſtillings with metalline Serpents, and othe[•] ſtrange inventions, of Sponges, Papers, and the like▪ Some cauſed a rectified aqua vitae be frozen in the greateſ[•] froſt, expecting the phlegme thereof ſhould turn to Ice, the ſpirit thereof to keep liquid, but nothing was done to any purpoſe.

The true way for the getting of it, I told you of a[•] the end of my Manuals: for it muſt be ſubtile, penetrating, without any phlegme, pure, aerial, and volatile, ſo that aire in a magnetick quality may attract it, therefore it had need to be kept cloſe in: it is o[•] a penetrating and effectual[•] operation, and its uſe is ſeveral.

There are three, which are the nobleſt Creatures in the world, theſe three bear a wonderfull affection one to another. Among Animals it is man, our of whoſe Mume is made an Animal ſtone, in which Microcoſme is contained. Among Minerals Gold is the nobleſt, whoſe fixedneſſe is a ſufficient teſtimony ol it's noble off ſpring and kin[•]red. Among Vegetables there lieth hid a Vegetable ſtone. Man loveth Gold and Wine above all other Creatures, which may be beheld with eyes. Gold loveth man and Wine, becauſe it lets go its nobleſt part, if ſpirit of Wine be put to it, being made potable, which giveth ſtrength to man, and prolongeth his life in health.

Wine beareth affection to man alſo, and to Gold, becauſe it eaſily uniteth with the tincture of Sol, expelleth melancholly and ſadneſſe, refreſheth and rejoyceth mans heart. He that hath theſe three ſtones may boldly ſay, that he hath the ſtones of the Univerſal, much of it is talk'd and written: but what eye hath ſeen it! not one amongſt many hundred of Millions.

Theſe ſtones renew men and beaſts, cure Leprous Metals, cauſe barrenneſſe to become fertile, with a new birth, humane reaſon is not able to comprehend it, no[•] conceive of it.

If a rectified Aqua vitae be lighted, then Mercury and [••]e Vegetable Sulphur ſeparateth, that Sulphur burns [•]ight, being a mee[•] fire, the tender Mercury betakes him-[•]mſelf to his wings and flieth to his Chaos.

He that can ſhut up and catch this fiery ſpirit, he may [•]oaſt, that he hath got[•••] a g[•]eat victory in the Chymical [•••]le: for this Vegetable fiery Sulphur is the onely Key to [••]aw the Sulphur from mineral and metalline bodies.

Thus I cloſe my book, the things contained therein are [•]ot grounded on opinions, as moſt Phyſicians rely on the [•]uthors, that ſuch and ſuch Herbs are cold and moiſt, dry, [••]d warm, in the firſt, ſecond, and third degree: becauſe [•]hey heard their Authors affirm it, themſelves neither [•]aw [〈◊〉] nor made tryal of it: making meer collections from other [•]ens writings, patching up volumes. The things I wrote [•]f, I know by a long experimental knowledge to be true; [•]his my experience I hope will take place, and get the vi[•]tory as the Amazons did in their prudence.

The eternal heavenly ſpirit refreſh our Souls, that we may [••]lk in heavenly ſtreets, forſaking all falſe and erroneous by-wayes. Amen.

FINIS.

[•]ONCLUSIONS AND EXPERIMENTS OF BASILIUS VALENTINUS. PREFACE.

I Baſilius Valentinus write a ſhort clauſe upon my former writings, and this treatiſe is inſtead of a declaration thereof. But my Son and Diſciple, you are to remember that you lift up your eyes to [•]he Mountain of God, and of the Philoſophers, from [•]hence you expect a help: namely, Sulphur, Vitriol, [•]nd Magnet of Philoſophers muſt be a great help un[•]o you. For Philoſophers Sulphur, Vitriol, & Magnet [•]s coelestial, from whence cometh [•]hat Univerſal and Philoſophick Lapis, vulgar and ordinary Sulphur, Vitriol and Magnet afford meerly Particulars and Medicaments.

In the Treatiſe of the Philoſophers ſtone I have ſet [•]own expreſly in a parable the Philoſophers Sulphur [•]n the XII. Keyes: but the Philoſophers Mercury, or [•]he true Philoſophick Magnet I gave a hint of in few words: however, I treated of the ſame in the XI[•] Keyes, & of the prima materia I ſpoke in my Rythm[•] or Verſes.

I leave a light for a farewell unto the ſeeking Di[•]ciples, whereby they may ſee the clear day in a da[••] night: and do deſcribe the vertue and operation of th[•] vulgar Sulphur, Vitriol, and Magnet, the reſt yo[•] may finde in the Treatiſe, which followeth next th[•] XII. Keyes: which if you finde the true way of working, you may get ſufficiently of health and wealth i[•] this world.

Make uſe of in the name of God, and unto his glorie, and do good unto the poor, and be helpfull unt[•] them, otherwiſe thy earthly Paradiſe may be turn'd i[•] the end into a damnable Hell, from which, O Lord, deliver all good people. Amen.

The Firſt TREATISE, Of Philoſophers Sulphur, Vitriol, and Magnet.

Firſt Section. Of Sulphur, and ferment of Philoſophers.

LOving ſeeker of Chymical myſteries, I have written a Trea[•]iſe about the Philoſophers ſtone, and have ſet down expreſly the materia of the Philoſopher[•] Sulphur in the firſt Key, and taught you in the ſecond Key how you ought to diſtil our water of the Eagle and cold Dragon, who had his dwelling a long time in Rocky Clifts, and crept in and out in Subterranean concave and hollow places: pour this ſpirit, or aqua upon purged and fined Gold, lute it well, and ſet it into a diſſolution, in fimo for 14. nights to putrifie it, then draw it over the Helmet, pour the water upon Gold Calx whole, make all the Gold come through the Helmet: ſet this again under a Helmet, abſtract the water gently, leave a third part of it in the bottom, then ſet it into a Cellar, let it coagulate and Cryſtallize, waſh theſe Cryſtals with diſtill'd water, precipitate them with Mercury vive, eva[••]rate the Mercury gently, then you have a ſub[•]ile pow[••] put it in a glaſſe, lute it, reverberate it for three dayes a[•] nights, do it gently, thus is the Philoſophers Sulphur w[•] prepared for your work, and this is the purple mantle, [〈◊〉] Philoſophick Gold, keep it ſafely in a glaſſe for your co[•]junction.

The ſecond Section. Of the Philoſophers Vitriol.

I Have told you plainly how Philoſophers Sulphur [〈◊〉] made, which loco maſculi, is to make the King, or ma[•] now you muſt have the female, or wife, which is the M[••]curie of Philoſophers, or the materia prima lapidis, whi[••] muſt be made artificially: for our Azoth is not comm[••] Vinegar, but is extracted with common Vinegar, and the[•] is a Salt made of materia prima (this Salt is called the P[•]loſophers Mercurie, which is coagulated in the belly of t[••] earth. When [•]his matter is brought to light, it is not de[••] and is found every where, Children play with it: it is po[••]derous, and hath a ſent of dead mens bones, for two G[••]ders you may buy this matter for the work: Therefore ta[••] this matter, diſtil, calcine, ſublime, reduce it to aſhes: for an Artiſt want aſhes, how can he make a Salt, and he th[••] hath not a Metalline Salt, how can he make the Philoſ[•]phers Mercurie?

Therefore, if you have calcined the matter, then extra[••] its Salt, rectifie it well, let it ſhoot into the Vitriol, whic[•] muſt be ſweet, without any corroſiveneſſe, or ſharpneſſe o[•] Salt. Thus you ge[•] the Philoſophers Vitriol, or Philoſo[•]phick Oyl, make further of it a Mercurial water, thus yo[•] have perform'd an artificial work: this is called the Phil[•]ſophers Azoth, which purgeth Laton, but is not yet waſh'd Fo[•] Azoth waſheth Laton, as the Ancient Philoſophers have [〈◊〉] two, or three thouſand years ago. For the Philoſophick [〈◊〉], or Laton muſt with its own humidity, or its own Mer[••]al water be purg'd, diſſolv'd, diſtill'd, attract its Magnet, [〈◊〉] ſtay with it. And this is the Philoſophers Mercury, or [••]curius duplicatus, and are two ſpirits, or a ſpirit and [••]r of the Salt of Metals. Th[•]n [•]his water beareth the me of ſuccus Lunariae, aqua caeleſt[•], acetum Philoſophorum, [••]a Sulphuris, aqua permanens, aqua benedicta. Take [••]t, or ten parts of this water, and one part of your [•]men[•], or Sulphur of Sol, ſet it into the Philoſophers Egg, [••]e it well, put it in the Athanar, into that vaporous, and [•]t dry ſi[•]e, govern it, to the appearance of a black, white, [•]d r[••] colour, then you get the Philoſophers ſtone, and [•]u enjoy this noble, dear, and bleſſed Medicine and Tin[••]re, and you may work miracles with it.

The third Section. Of the Philoſophers Magnet.

HErmes the father of Philoſophers had this Art, and was the firſt that wrote of it, and prepared the ſtone our [〈◊〉] Mercurie, Sol, and Lune, of the Philoſophers: whom ma[•]y thouſand labora[•]ors have imitated, my ſelf alſo did the [•]ke: and I ſpeak r[•]ally, that the Philoſophers ſtone may be [••]mpoſed of two bodies, the beginning and ending of it [•]uſt be with Philoſophick Mercury.

And this is now prima materia, alias praeda: materia pri[•]a belongs onely to God, and is coagulated in the entra[•]s [•]f the earth, firſt it turneth to Mercury, then to Lead, then [〈◊〉] Tin and Copper, then to Iron, &c. Thus the coagulated Mercury muſt by Art be turn'd into its prima materia, or water, that it, Mercurial water. This is a ſtone and no [••]ne, of which is made a volatile fire, in form of a water, which drowneth and diſſolveth its fix'd father, and its vo[•]tile mother.

Metalline Salt is an imperfect body, which turneth Philoſophick Mercury, that is, into a permanent, or bleſſ[•] water: and is the Philoſophers Magnet, which loveth Philoſophick Mars, ſticketh unto him, and abideth with hi[•] Thus our Sol hath a Magnet alſo, which Magnet is the fi[••] root and matter of our ſtone: If you conceive of and u[•]derſtand my ſaying, then you are the richeſt man in t[••] world.

Hermes ſaith; you muſt have three ſpecieſies for the wor[••] firſt a volatile, or Mercurial water, aqua coeleſtis, then vir[•]dis Leo, green Lion, which is the Philoſophick Lune, third[••] aes Hermetis, or Sol, or ferment.

Laſtly note, Philoſophers had two wayes, a wet on[•] which I made uſe of, and a dry one: herein you muſt proceed Philoſophically, you muſt purge well [•]he Philoſophers Mercury, and make Mercury with Mercury, addin[•] the Philoſophick Salt, ferment, or Sulphur of Philoſophers and proceed therein, as you heard formerly, then you hav[•] the Philoſophers Magnet, that is, the Philoſophers Mercury. Secondly, the Metalline Salt, or Philoſophick Salt. Thirdly, aes Hermetis, or Philoſophick Sulphur.

Thus I have deli[•]eated the whole Art, if you do not u[•]derſtand it, then you will get nothing, nor art thou predeſtinated thereunto.

Allegorical expresſions betwixt the Holy Trinity and the Philoſophers ſtone.

DEar Chriſtian Lover, and well wiſher to the bleſſed Art: how graciouſly and miraculouſly hath the Holy Trinity created the Philoſophers ſtone. For God the Father is a ſpirit, and yet maketh himſelf known under the notion of a man, as he ſpeaketh, Geneſ. 1. Chapter: let us make man, an image [•]ike unto us. Item, this expreſſion in his word ſpeak of his mouth, eyes hands, and feet; ſo Philoſophers Mercury is held a ſpiritual body, as Philoſophers call him. God the Father begetteth his onely Son JESUS CHRIST, which is God and Man, and is without ſin, neither needed he to die: but he laid down his life freely, and roſe again, for his brethren and ſiſt[•]rs ſake, that they mi[•]ht live with him eternally without ſin. So is Sol, or Gold without defect, and is fix, holds out gloriouſly all fiery examins, but by reaſon of its imperfect and ſick brethren and ſiſters, it dieth, and riſeth gloriouſly, redeemeth and tingeth them unto eternal life, making them p[•]rfect unto good Gold.

The third perſon in the Trinity is God the Holy Ghoſt, a comforter ſent by our Lord Christ Jeſus unto his believing Chriſtians, who ſtrengthneth and comforteth them in Faith, unto eternal life; even ſo is the ſpirit of ma[•]erial Sol, or of the body of Mercury, when they come together, [•]hen is he called the double Mercurie, theſe are two ſpirits, God the Father, and God the Holy Ghoſt: but God the Son, a glorified Man, is even as our glorified and fix'd Sol, or Philoſphers ſtone; ſince this La[•]is is called Trinus, namely, out of two waters, or ſp[••]i[•]s of Mineral, and of Vegetable, and of the Animal of Sulphur of Sol: Theſe are the Two and Three, and yet but one: if you underſtand it not, then you are not like to hit any. Thus by way of a ſimilitude I delineated unto thee ſufficiently the Univerſal. Pray to God for a bleſſing, for without him you are not like to proſper at all.

The ſecond TREATISE Of vulgar Sulphur, Vitriol, and Magnet.

The firſt Section. Of Sulphurs.

Chap. I. Of Sulphur of Saturn.

1. THere is extracted from calcined Saturn with diſtill'd Vinegar a Cryſtalline Salt, which is diſtill'd with ſpirit of wine unto a red Oyl. This Oyl cureth Melancholy, fiery Pox, old Ulcers, and many other infirmities beſides.

2. This Oyl coagulateth and fixeth Mercury, being firſt precipitated with Oyl of Vitriol, for all powders and Medicaments, which are to make Sol and Lune, muſt be made fix, holding in all fiery tryals.

3. Out of this Oyl is made a glorious Tinctur, if you take three parts of Mercury of Mars, and one part of this red Oyl of Saturn, joyning, coagulating, and fixing them: this work may be accompliſhed in a moneths time, or ſomewhat longer. This Tincture may be augmented with Mercury of Mars, uſque in infinitum; projecting one part of it upon three parts of Sol, to make thereby an ingreſſe for the Tincture: one part of this Tincture tranſmuteth thirty parts (if ſo be it be well prepared) of Mercurie and of Lune into good Sol. Remember thy Crea or, and be mindfull of the poor, then the Lord will be mindfu[•]l of thee alſo.

Chap. II. Of Sulphur of Jupiter.

1. THere is made of Jupiter a minium, the like is made of Saturn, from thence is extracted and diſtill'd a red ſweet Oyl: this Oyl tingeth Saturn, being firſt calcined with Salmiac into Sol.

2. The Limature of Jupiter being calcined with Calx vive for a day, and the Calx being w[•]ſh'd from it, then you have a fix'd powder, if you can reduce it again into a fluidneſſe, and drive it wi[•]h Sa[•]urn, then you may get a reaſonable part of good Lune and Sol, whereby a needy Laborator may get ſufficient livelyhood.

3. There is a calcination made of Tin and L[•]ad with common S[•]l[•], but better is it, if made with Salt of [•]he c[•]put mort of Vitriol and Peter, the Oyl of Vitriol being added unto Calx of Jupiter and Saturn, and made one maſſe of it, lu[•]e it well, [•]et it ſtand for eight dayes and nights in warm Sand, and then to drive it: one Centner of Lead affords in this manner ſix Mark and a half of fi[•]e Lune: one Ma[•]k of ſuch Lune yields one Ounce of Sol.

This hath been my firſt piece to make Lune and Sol withall Note, theſe ſix Mark and a half of Lune, afford ſix Ounces and a half of Sol, this Sol and Lune amounts to 208. Gildors, or 20. pound and 16. ſhillings.

Chap. III. Of Sulphurs of Mars and Venus.

1. TAke ſome pounds of Verdigreece, extract its Tincture with diſtill'd Vinegar, let it ſhoot, then you have a glorious Vitriol, out of which you may diſtil per retort a red Oyl. This Oyl diſſolveth Mars turning into a Vitriol, which is reduced in a long time in a great fire unto a red Oyl, then you have together Sulphur of Mars and Venus, add ſomewhat of Sulphur of Sol, coagulate and fix it, then you have a Medicine, which meliorateth Men and Metals.

2. Lune is graduated with the Oyl, and a good part of the Kings Crown is gotten.

3. Two equal parts of laminated Sol, and Lune melted together, putrified in this Oyl for a day and a night, turneth them into good Gold. In this Oyl you will finde many ſtrange affects and vertues. Laus Deo.

Chap. IV. Of Sulphur of Sol.

1. I have formerly told how Gold is made ſpiritual unto the purple mantle. Now if you are about to make aurum potabile, then you may diſſolve with the Oyl of Vitriol that ſpiritual Gold, extract, and draw it over with ſpirit of wine: this is a Medicine, which cureth many difficult diſeaſes, and is wonderfull in its efficacie.

2. This Solar Sulphur tingeth prepared Calx of Lune into good Gold, but you heard in my former expreſſions, that the King hath onely an honourable Garment, and muſt raiſe his Rents and ſubſidies from his ſubjects, muſt be bathed in his buddying bloud and ſwear, muſt be deſtroyed and gloriouſly renew'd; then is he able to make his poor brethren and ſiſters to be Kings alſo, and legitimate the[•]r baſtards.

Antimony is a baſtard of Saturn, as much of Mercury and of Regulus it ha[•]h, ſo much is it turned into Sol; its due Doſe of Tincture being firſt added thereunto. Wiſmuth, [••]r Marcaſite is a baſtard of Jupiter, is turn'd to Sol alſo, [•]y means of a Tincture. Oyl of Vitriol is a baſtard of Ve[•]us, it hath a Metalline Mercury, as much it hath of it, ſo much is it ting'd into Sol.

3. If you add the Solar Sulphur unto Sulphur of Vitriol, Venus and Mars, and you have fixed artificially, then you have a Tincture for Men and Metals, expelling all manner of diſeaſes: and this fix'd powder tingeth Particulariter Lune into Sol. Laus Deo,

Chap. V. Of Sulphur of Mercurie.

MErcury is a Mother of all Metals, and is a ſpiritual body, and a fugitive ſervant, when he cometh into [•]he fire, then he flyeth into his Chaos. But he that can [••]tch him, he gets then the Sulphur of Mercury, or wa[••]r of Sulphur, or aqua benedicta, the Key of the Art, which [•]peneth Metals Philoſophically. The Philoſophers Mer[••]ry and not the vulgar, being reduced unto water, diſ[•]lveth the Philoſophick Salt together with the purple [•]antle, by putrefaction and diſtillation, for it is Mercurius [•]plicatus.

Chap. VI. Of Sulphur of Lune.

1. THis Lune is made ſpiritual by means of a water, expreſſed in our ſecond Key, and may eaſily be made into potable ſilver, where by many diſeaſes are cured.

2. If you take one part of this ſpiritual Lune, and you feed it with three parts of Virgins Milk, and bring it unto fixation, then you have an augment of Lune, which breedeth monethly young ones, theſe are taken forth, and their places are ſupplied with Mercury vive, &c. This powder is reduced with Boras, then you have an augmentum perpetuum.

Chap. VII. Of Antimonial Vitriol.

1. THere is made out of Vitriol of Antimony with diſtill'd Vinegar a ſweet extraction, its acetum is ſeparated from it: on the remainder is poured ſpirit of wine, muſt be extracted, and the pure from impure ſeparated. This ſweet extraction is drawn over, the ſpirit of wine by cohobation is often drawn from it, and that powder is reduced to a glorious Oyl of Antimony.

This Oyl cureth all manner of diſeaſes, being miniſtred in a convenient Vehicle; This Medicinal Oyl is a great arcanum.

2. Further, take one part of this Oyl, and two parts of the M[•]rcurial water, in which is diſſolved a fourth part of Sol (purple Mantle) then joyn them, lute Hermetically, coagulate, and fix. This Tincture tingeth Lune and Mercurie into Sol. This is that pure Sulphur of Antimony: the Vitriol of Antimony muſt be made per ſe, without any addition of Salpeter, Salt, and Borras.

Chap. VIII. Of Sulphur of Vitriol.

1. THere is made of Vi[•]riol a lixivium with aſhes of Beech-wood, and a Sulphur is drawn from this Vitriol, and is precipitated with Salt of Tartar; Further, the Oyl of Sulphur is ex[•]racted with Juniper Oyl, t[•]us you have a red Oyl, putrifie the ſame with ſpirit of wine, abſtract the ſpirit of wine from it. This glorious Oyl of Sulphur is good againſt ma[•]y diſeaſes, it is to be uſed againſt Conſumption, Dropſi[•], Plague, Gravel, and Scabbineſſe.

2. Vitriol is ſublimed with Salmi[•]c alſo, but better is it, if done with a lixivium, whereby the body of V[•]t iol is better opened and diſſolved. This ſublimate is diſſolved into an Oyl, whereby c[•]ude Mercury can be coagula[•]ed and fix'd, of the which I ſhall write more anon, when I treat of Vitriol.

Chap. IX. Of common Sulphur.

1. THere is a Liver made of yellow Sulphur with Linſeed Oyl, boyled in Lye, with Sol [〈◊〉] pu[•]rified, and then diſtill'd: pour this water on Tyle[•], w[•]ich newly came out of the Oven, imbibe them the[•]ewith, diſtil it per retortam, you have a yellow water of it like an aquafort, which tingeth Lune. Take one part of i[•] [•]s water, and one part of Luna[•] calx, let it ſta d [〈◊〉] d[•]y[••] and nights in warm Sand, the fou[•]th part of it tu[••]e [〈◊〉] unto Gold, being reduced, ſeparated, purged, with Saturn and driven.

2. Further, Sulphur with the anima of Saturn, being often driven over and fixed, may then ſafely be uſed inwardly for a Medicine: but projected on Lune, in the flux [•]t afford good Gold in the Qua[•]t.

3. Of the Gray powder, and Calx vive, equal parts, one pound, a fourth part of Salmiac grinded among, and driven over per retortam, affords a glorious red Oyl, which is of [〈◊〉] fixing and graduating quality.

4. Laſtly, I tell you, take of this Oyl of Sulphur, of Venus, and of Mars, add thereunto the Oyl of Antimonie's Sulphur, binde theſe together with the Oyl, or Mercurial water, fix it, then you have a Medicine for men and Metals, viz. to ringe Mercury and Lune into Sol.

The ſecond Section. Of Vitriols.

Chap. I. Of Vitriol of Sol, and of Lune.

IN the firſt place you muſt have our water of the cold Earth ſalt, and of the Eagle, whereby Gold and Silver is made ſpiritual, let it ſhoot into Cryſtals: this is that Metalline Vitriol, out of which is diſtilled together with ſpirit of wine, and Oyl of Sulphur, to be uſed after the manner of Metals.

Chap. II. Of Vitriol of Saturn, and of Jupiter.

CAlcine Saturn, or Jup ter, ex[•]ract its anima with diſtill'd Vi[•]egar, l[•]t it pu[•]rifie 14. dayes and nights, let [•]he Vitriol ſhoot. This muſt be drive[•] over with ſpirit of wine, it affords a ſweet Oyl, and it is the Su[•]phur of Saturn and Jupiter. This Oyl coagulateth Mercury, and being firſt precipitated with Oyl of Vitriol, it fixeth him.

Chap. III. Of Vitriol of Mars.

TAke the filings of Mars and of Sulphur equal parts, calcine them in a Brick-kill to a purple colour, pour on it diſtill'd water, or Vinegar, it extracteth a green colour, abſtract the third part of that water, let it ſhoot: thus you have an artifiical Vitriol, diſtil from it a red ſpirit, or Oyl. Take half an Ounce of it, add to it Mercurial water, in which is diſſolv'd Sol (take of this Oyl but a fourth part of an Ounce) fix this Tincture, then you have an excellent Medicine to project upon Lead Silver, and Tin, which are tranſmuted thereby into pure Gold.

O! thou Chriſtian heart, return thanks to the Creator of Minerals, Metals, and other Creatures!

Chap. IV. Of Vitriol of Venus.

I Have told you already of the tranſparent Vitriol to be extracted out of Venus, and to diſtil of it a red Oyl. This Oyl diſſolveth Mars, turneth him into a Vitriol, bei[••] once more diſtill'd per retortam forcibly, then you have a[•] excellent Tinging-oyl, called Salt of Mars. This is th[•] Kings exciſe man, which bringeth in his Rents, and enricheth the King. This Oyl diſſolveth the ſpiritual purple ma[•]tle, and draweth it over the Helmet. Now you have ſe[•]mented the Celar Sulphur with i[•]s own Sulphur, which Philoſophers before me have not done, they took onely calcined Sol, or S[•]lar Calx, ſet the ſame to the duplicated Mercury (inſtead of the fermen[•]) and attai[•]ed unto the en[•] they wiſh'd for, as well as I. But according as men do work, ſo is the operation of their Tincture, tranſmuting more, or leſſe, according to the efficacie of the Tincture.

2. Out of the Oyl of this Martia[•] Salt, is Mercury of Antimony precipitated, is added to the ſweet Oyl of Vitriol, & fix'd; this Medicine next unto the Philoſophers ſtone is the beſt, and higheſt Univ[•]rſal upon mans body, and tingeth Lune, Saturn, and Jupiter into good Sol, holding in the exame[•] very well.

3. There is made alſo a maſſe out of Honey, Salt, and Vinegar, and lamins of Venus, which are ſtratified and calcined. This calcinate of its own accord, turns to a Verdigreece, which muſt be extracted, cryſtallized, and diſtilled to a red Oyl; which is uſed as you heard above.

Chap. V. Of Vitriol of Mercury.

VItriol of Mercury is eaſily made, diſtill'd in aquafort made of Salpeter and Allome being diſſolved therein: Cryſtals do ſhoot, which are very like unto a Vitriol: theſe being waſh'd with rectified ſpirit of Wine, with Salt of Tartar, then putrified and reduced into a ſweet Oyl; this is an excellent Medicine againſt the French diſeaſe, old Ulcers, Chollick, windy ruptures, Gou[••], expelling many other diſeaſes out of mans body.

2. This Oyl is joyned alſo with Martial Tinctures. For [•]er[•]ury is the bond of other Metals, and may be well uſed [•]ticulariter. The chiefeſt colour of Mercury is red, as [••]u finde in my other writings.

Chap. VI. Of common Vitriol.

[•]. TAke good Hungariſh Vitriol, diſſolve it in diſtilled water, coagulate it again, let it ſhoot into Cryſtal[•]: [•]erate it five times, then is it well purged, and the Salts, Allums, and Niter are ſeparated from it. Diſtil this purged [•]itriol with ſpirit of wine unto a red Oyl, ferment it with [•]piritual Sol, add to it a due Doſe of quick Mercury of Antimony, coagulate, and fix, then you have a Tincture for men, and it tingeth Lune alſo into Sol.

Viſitando Interiora Terrae,

Rectificandoque,

In venietis occultum Lapidem,

Veram Medicinam.

2. VItriol is calcined alſo to a red colour in a cloſe Veſſel, on which is poured diſtilled Vinegar, and is ſet in putrefaction for three moneths, there is ſound in a ſtrong diſtillation, a quick Mercury, which you are to keep ſafe. Wonders may be effected therewith, upon Particulars and Univerſals.

Take three p[••]ts of this Mercury, and one part of Sol, joyn theſe, being fixed, it affords a Solar augmentum. Make your ſupplies with its Mercury. Laus Deo.

3. This calcined red Vitriol is ſublimed alſo with Salmiac, th[•] ſublimate is diſſolved into an Oyl. This Oyl fixeth C[••]obar, whereof may be had Lune and Sol.

4. There is made a fix't water alſo, Salmiac and Allo[•] being added thereunto. This water being poured upon Su[•]phur of Jupiter, which before was precipitated in[•]o a re[•] powder, imbibed, and coagulated, and an ingreſſe be ma[••] with Sol, then you have a Tincture, whereby c[•]ude Antim[•]ny is tranſmuted into good Lune, which may be tranſmute[••] into Sol.

5. Laſtly, I tell thee, if you extract the Salt out of Vitriol, and rectifie it well, then you have a work which i[•] ſhort, and tingeth Lune into Sol, this metalline Salt coagulateth vulgar Mercurie, and being tranſmuted into Lun[•], i[•] may be graduated higher through, and with Antimony.

Thus you have my operations and experiments, which may he very profitable unto you. Make a good Chriſtian uſe of it, help the poor, cure the diſeaſed, then God will bleſſe you. Amen.

Sulphur is Vitriol.

Antimony is Mercary.

The third Section. Of vulgar Magnet.

1. MAgnet contains that, which common Mars hath. Common Iron may eaſily be wrought, needs not to make many words of it. Magnet hath an attractive quality to draw Iron.

2. There is made an Oyl of Magnet and Mars, which is very effectual in deep wounds.

3. With Magnet and Antimony is made Lune fix, which with the Oyl of Mars and Venus is graduated, and made to Gold: it may be performed alſo with Antimony and Mars.

Thus I finiſh'd my courſe, and found many things in my working. My fellow brethren turn'd Alchymiſts, all had the Philoſophers ſtone. I was the beginner, took great [••]us, before I attained to any thing, if you read my wri[••]gs diligently, you will finde the XII. Keyes the prima [••]teria, or Philoſophers Mercury, together with the Philo[•]phick Salt: the Philoſophick Sulphur I delineated ex[••]ſly.

Now I cloſe, committing you to God, and accept in ho[••]ſty of that you are informed.

Medium Tenuere Beati.

FINIS.

Jod. V. R. A Proceſſe upon the Philoſophick work of Vitriol.

HAving gotten this Proceſſe in the foreſaid year, and and afterward, as you ſhall hear, with mine own hands elaborated and wrought the ſame, no man [•]ver-looking me, I was heartily rejoyced, even as if I had [•]een new born, and returned hearty thanks to God[•]: its [•]ractick at the firſt I have not plainly deſcribed, becauſe I [•]ad erred in the compoſing of it, and was fain to begin the work anew. I having miſs'd in my work, I begun in the [•]ear 1605. becauſe the matter of the Earth, and the ſpirit [•]f Mercury was not ſufficiently purged, therefore the earth [•]ould not perfectly be united at the compoſition with the water, I let that quite alone, and began a new Proceſſe at [•]he end of the year 1605. in the Citie of Strasburg, uſed [•]ore diligence and exactneſſe, then my work (God be prai[••]d) proſpered better, for the which I am ſtill thankfull to God for it. In the name of the H[•]ly Trinity, the 1[•] October, Anno 1605. I took ten pou[•]d of Vitriol, diſſ[••] it in diſtilled Rain-water, being warm'd, let it ſtand [〈◊〉] day and a night, at that time many feces were ſetled, I[•]trated the matter, evaporated it gently, ad cuticulam uſ[••] I ſet it on a cool place to cryſtallize, this on ſhot Vitri[••] exiccated, diſſolved it again in diſtilled Rain-water, l[••] ſhoot again, which work I iterated ſo long, ti[•]l the Vi[••] go[•] a coeleſtial g[•]een colour, having no more any feces a[••] [•], and loſt all its corroſiveneſſe, and was of a very plea[••] taſte.

This highly putrified Vitriol, thus crude, and not [••]cined, I put into a coated Retort, diſtilled it in open f[•] drove it over in 12 hours ſpace by an exact government fi[•]e in a white fume, when no more of theſe fumes ca[••] and the red corroſive Oyl began to come, then I l[•]t the [〈◊〉] go out, the next morning, all being cold, I took off the [••]ceiver, poured the gift in the receiver into a body, a[•] ſome of the l[••]e being fall'n into, I filter'd it, and had a [〈◊〉] menſtrual water, which had ſome phlegme, becauſe I t[•] that Vitriol uncalcined, which I abſtracted in a Balmy, [〈◊〉] leaving one drop of water in it.

I found my Chaos in the bottom of a dark redneſſe, v[•] ponderous, which I poured into a Viol, ſealed it Herme[••] ſet it on a three-foot into a woodden globe into a v[•]porous hath made of water, where I left it ſo long, till [〈◊〉] was diſſolved, after ſome weeks it ſeparated into two par[•] into a bright tranſparent water, and into an ear[••] which ſetled to the bottom of the glaſſe, in form of a thi[•] black corroſive, like pitch. I ſeparated the white ſpi[••] from it, and the fluid black matter I ſet in again to be d[••]ſolved, the white ſpirit which was diſſolv'd of it, I ſeparat[•] again, this work I iterated leaving nothing in the botto[•] ſave a dry red earth. After that, I purged my white ſpi[••] per distillationem very exactly, it was as pure as the tear th[••] falls from the eye, the remaining earth I exiccated under Muffle, it was as porous, and as dry as duſt, on this I pour[••] again my white ſpirit, ſet it in a digeſtion, this ſpirit ex[•••]ct the Sulphur, or Philoſophick Gold, and was ting'd of a [〈◊〉] yellow, I ca[••]ed it off from the matter, and in a body [•]bſtracted the ſpirit from the Sulphur, that Sulphur ſtayed [••]inde in form of an Oyl, very fiery, nothing like unto its [••]t, as red as a Ruby: this abſtracted white ſpirit [•]ou[•]ed on the earth again, extracted further its Sulphur, [••]d put it to the former. After this that Corpus terra look'd [〈◊〉] a paler colour, which I calcined for ſome hours under [•]uffle, put it into a body, on it I poured my white ſpirit, [••]racted its pure white fixed Salt, the remaining earth [••]s very porous, good for nothing, which I flung away, [•]as theſe three principles were fully and perfectly ſepa[••]ed.

After all this I took my aſtral clarified Salt, which weigh'd [••]lf an ounce, after the weight at Strasburg, and of the [••]ite ſpirit, which weigh'd four ounces, of Mercury one [••]nce, and a quarter of an ounce, theſe I divided into two [••]ts, whoſe quantity was half an ounce and one dram, I [••]t this Salt to one part of the water in a Viol, and nippd it, [〈◊〉] it in digeſtion, there I ſaw perfectly how the Salt diſ[••]ved it ſelf again in this ſpirit, therefore I poured to it the [••]her part, which was half an ounce and one dram, no ſooner [••]is was put to it, then preſently the body together with [••]e ſpirit turned as black as a Coal, aſcended to the end of [〈◊〉] glaſſe: and having no room to go any further, it moved [〈◊〉] and fro, ſometimes it ſetled to the bottom, by and by it [••]e to the middle, then it roſe higher, thus it moved from [••]e fourth of July, to the ſeventh of Auguſt, namely 34. [••]ayes, which wonderfull work I beheld with admiration; [〈◊〉] laſt theſe being united, and turned to a black powder, [••]ying on the bottom, and was dry, ſeing that it was ſo, I [••]creaſed my fire in one degree, took it out of the we, and [〈◊〉] in aſhes, after ten dayes the matter on the bottom be[••]n to look ſomewhat white, at which I rejoyced heartily, [••]s degree of fire I continued, till the matter above and [•]low, became as white as the glittering Snow. But it was no[•] yet fix, making [•]ryal of [〈◊〉], ſet it in again, encreaſed [〈◊〉] fire one degree higher, then the matter began to aſcend a deſcend, moved on high, ſtayed in the middle of the g[•••] not touching the bottom of it, this laſted 38 dayes a[•] nights, I beheld then as well, as formerly at the 30 daye[•] variety of colours, which I am no[•] able to expreſſe. [〈◊〉] laſt th[•]s powder fell to the bottom, became fix, made p[•]jection wi h it, putting one Grai[•] of it to one, and a qu[•••] of an ounce of Mercury, tranſmuting the ſame into very g[••] Lune. [Now it was time to reſtore unto this white tinct[••] her true anima, and imbibe it, to bring it from its wh[••]neſſe unto redneſſe, and to its perfect vertue.

Thereupon I took the third principle, namely the anim[•] which hitherto I had reſerved, in quantity it was one ou[••] a quarter of an ounce, and one dram, poured to it my r[•]ſerved ſpirit of Mercury, whoſe quantity was one cu[••] and a quarter of an ounce, drew it over ſeveral times [〈◊〉] alembicum, ſo that they in the end united together; th[•]ſe divided into ſeven equal parts; one part I poured on m[•] clarified earth, or tincture, which greedily embraced [〈◊〉] anima together with its ſpirit, and turned to a ruddineſ[••] in twelve dayes and nights, but had no tinging quality [〈◊〉] yet, ſaving Mercury vive and Saturn, it tranſmuted in[••] Lune, which Lune at the ſeparating yielded three Grai[••] [〈◊〉] Gold. I proceeded further with my imbibition, and carrie[•] all the ſeven parts of anima into; at the fourth imbibi[••]o[•] one part of my work ting'd ten parts of Copper into Gold at the fifth imbibition one part tinged hundred parts, at th[•] ſixth it tinged thouſand parts, at the ſeventh it tinged te[•] thouſand parts: Thus, God be praiſed, my work ended ſuccesfully, with great joy of my heart: at this time I got o[•] the true Medicine four ounces half an ounce, and one dram. The two laſt in the ponderoſity were almoſt equa[•] unto the firſt, out of this my work I paid for Land and Ground, to that Noble Gentleman O. V. D. 48000 Gilders. Actum[•] 1607. Theſe things I ſet down for a memorandum, tha[•] I ſhould not forget any of the manuals, and of other thing[•] neceſſary for the work. God be praiſed for evermore. Amen.

An exact work, how Mercury vive is coagulated and brought unto a Lunar fixation which Lune holds Sol alſo in the trial.

TAke of Mercury vive two ounces, of pulveriſed common Sulphur ſix ounces, grinde theſe in a wooden diſh with a wooden Peſtil, ſet it on a Coal-fire in a melting pot, ſtirring it about continually, ler all the Sulphur evaporate: then take forth the Mercury, grinde an equal quantity of Sulphur with it, proceed with its heating as formerly: iterate this work five times; then ſublime this Mercury per gradus ignis: take out [•]his ſublimate, break it in pieces of the big[•]eſſe of a ſmall Nut, or bean, imbibe them in the white of Eggs, then take a comenting pot, put aſhes into it, in the midſt of it ſet an Iron box, ſtratifie into it this ſublimate with refined ſilver, fill up the box, then lute an Iron lid to it, put aſhes on the lid, lute an earthen lid upon that, ſet this pot into a ſand Capel, let your firſt fire be gentle for twelve hours, then encreaſe your fire for twelve hours more, at laſt make a forcible fire for 24 hours, then break open the Pot, you will finde a black gray matter, carry it on Lead, of four ounces you will get three ounces of fix ſilver: ſeparate this fine ſilver in aquaefort, you will finde a good deal of black Gold Calx, reſerve the ſilver Calx apart, you may ſtratifie with it another time. Thus far I went in my experience.

The fifth and laſt part Of the laſt TESTAMENT Of FRIAR BASILIUS VALENTINUS.

Treating of the tranſcendent, and moſt precious and wonderfull Medicine, which the great Creator hath put into Metalline and Mineral Salts, for the benefit of man; to keep him in perfect health continually.

LONDON, Printed Anno Domini▪ MDCLVI.

The fifth and laſt part Of the laſt TESTAMENT Of FRIAR BASILIUS VALENTINUS.

BEfore I begin to ſpeak of the Salts of Metals and Minerals, and declare their volumes and other precious and noble growth under ground, in the firſt place I will prefix the preparation of aurum potabile, becauſe therein lieth the Corona of Medicinals, Univerſaliter, and meriteth the firſt place, becauſe Salts of other Metals and Minerals in their innate vertues are for particulars onely, and are ordained for to preſerve man in health; and there is juſt cauſe to begin with the making of au[•]um potabile without ſophiſtication, and will ſpeak of the diſtinction of it, that it may be judged infallibly to be the true one.

This being my laſt part, and my intention is to make a perfect relation of aurum potabile, for the benefit of good and underſtanding men, whom God after my death will rejoyce with this my book, which upon tedious and laborious experience I wrote, wherein I ſpeak not by hear-ſay, but the things I do write of, I know experimentally to be true.

Therefore if G[•]d doth bl[•]ſſe th[•]e with a true knowledge hereof, that you would keep this ſecretum in ſilence and privacy, leaſt you turn Gods bleſſing into a curſe: becauſe the pr[•]paration of this, and of the ſtone is one, both have their original, and firſt generation and birth from the true ſeed, and Aſtrologick primum mobile, called the ſpirit of Mercury, of which formerly I have written more largely. For I ſpeak the higheſt [•]ru[•]h unto thee, that neither the U[•]iverſal [•]or Particular Tincture, neither aurum potabile, nor other Univerſal Medicine, without this heavenly and ſpiritual eſſence, which hath its original from the ſtarry heaven, taketh and receiveth the ſame, from thence may be had and prepared, therefore be ſilent till death, at your departing lay down again your talent, as I have done; for if I had not informed you faithfully, you would know but little of that myſtery, and continue ſtill with the vulgar in folly, blindneſſe, and madneſſe, and you would have ſent a Recipe into the greaſy and ſalvy ſhops of Apothecaries, but whither would thy Soul have gone after thy departure? into Galen's l[•]p, to [•]he utmoſt depth of darkneſſe, where the D[•]vils have their dwelling places, even thither, both thy ſoul and body w[•]uld have been ſent, in caſe thou ſhouldſt have divulged a[•]y of th[•]ſe ſecrets.

To [•]urn to my intended buſineſſe, I will in the firſt place inform you, what is that true and higheſt aurum potabile, and Univerſal Medicine, after this in order there followeth another aurum potabile made of the fixed red Sulphur, or Soul of the corporeal Gold, moſt highly purged, a[•]d is prepared with the conjunction of the Univerſal Spirit of Mercurie. After this there followeth another Particular Medici[•]e, which is half an aurum potabile, ſhewing its efficacie a[•]d power in many tryals Then I will add thereunto a deſcr[•]ption of aurum potabile, becauſe it traceth the ſteps of Gold, and it ſheweth wonderfully its great energy and ver[•]ues.

The higheſt and chiefeſt aurum potabile, which the Lord God hath laid into nature, is the excocted, prepared, and fixed ſubſtance of our ſtone, before it is fermented. A higher, greater, and more excellent Univerſal Medicine, and aurum potabile cannot be found nor had in the circumference of the whole World; for it is a heavenly Balſam, becauſe its firſt principles, and original cometh from heaven, made formal in earth, or under ground, and is afterwards, being exactly prepared, brought into a plus quam perfection, of which firſt principle and Nativity of this heavenly ſubſtance I have already written ſufficiently, and count it needleſſe to be repeated here.

Now as this excocted and perfect ſubſtance is the higheſt, chiefeſt, and greateſt Univerſal Medicine unto man, even ſo on the other ſide the ſame matter after its fermentation, is a Tincture alſo, and the chiefeſt, greateſt, and moſt powerfull Univerſal Medicine upon all Metals whatſoever, and thereby may be tranſmuted into their higheſt melioration and health, namely into the pureſt Gold. This is the firſt, chiefeſt and greateſt aurum potabile and Univerſal Medicine of the whole World, of which alone great volumes could be written: whoſe preparation was ſet down circumſtantially in the third part, needleſſe to be repeated here again; At this preſent I will ſpeak of the true and full proceſſe, how a true aurum potabile is to be had, and prepared from Gold, which in ye beſt manner is moſt exactly putrified. Take the extracted Soul of Gold, drawn forth with the ſweet ſpirit of common Salt, as I inform'd you about the Particular of Gold, where the body of Gold appeared very white, abſtract the ſpirit of Salt from it, edulc[•]rate the anima of Sol ten, or twelve times, at laſt let it be purely exiccated, weigh it, pour on it four times as much of ſpirit of Mercurie, lute it well, ſet it in the vaporous Ba[•]h, putrify it gently, let the anima of Sol be quite diſſolved, and be turn'd into water, or its prima materia, both will turn into a blou[•]red liquor, fair and tranſparent, no Ruby on the earth comparable unto it.

But thus much you muſt note, when the anima of Sol begins to be diſſolved, and brought into its prima materia, that at the firſt, on the ſide round the glaſſe, where the matter lieth, there be ſeen a green circle, on it a b[•]ue, the[••] a yellow, afterward all the colours of a Rain-bow, joyn, and make appearance, which do laſt but a little while. The anima of Sol being wholly diſſolved into the Mercurial ſpirit, and nothing is ſeen in the bottom, then pour to it twice as much of the beſt rectified ſpirit of wine, brought to its higheſt degree, the glaſſe muſt be luted exactly, digeſt, and putrify gentle for twelve, or fifteen dayes together, then abſtract per alembicum, that matter cometh over in a bloud-red tranſparent colour: this abſtracting muſt be iterated, nothing muſt be left in the bottom, which is corporeal, then you have the true aurum potabile, which can never be reduced into a body.

But note, the Gold before its deſtruction and extraction of its Soul muſt be purged in the higheſt degree. There is made another aurum potabile, & artificially prepared, which though it cannot be ſaid, or ſet down in writing to be the full & true potable Gold, yet is it more than half an aurum potabile counted, becauſe it is tranſcending effectual in many diſeaſes, in which nature might have ſtood in great doubts. This half aurum potabile is made in a twofold manner, where the latter is better and more effectual than the former, and aſketh more pains and time than the former.

Take this extracted Soul of Gold, drawn forth with the ſweet ſpirit of common Salt, edulcorate it moſt purely and exactly, at laſt exiceate it, put it in a ſpacious Viol, or body of glaſſe, pour on it red Oyl of Vitriol, which was dephlegmed, and rectified per reto[•]tam, that it be tranſparent clear and white, and you may ſee, that it ſeizeth on the Gold and diſſolveth it, and is tinged deeply red.

Put ſo much of this Oyl to is, that in it may be diſſolved Sulphur, or the Soul of Gold, let it putrifie in Balneo Mariae, put a reaſonable fire to it, that you may ſee that the Soul of Gold is quite diſſolved in the Oyl of Vitriol: the feces, which it hath ſetled, muſt be ſeparated from it, then put twice as much of the beſt rectified ſpirit of Wine to it, which rectification you ſhall be inform'd of in this part, ſeal the glaſſe, [•]et no ſpirits of the Wine evaporate, ſet it again in putrefa[••]tion in the Balmy, let it be there for a moneth, then the [•]upreſſe of Vitriol is mitigated by the ſpirit of Wine, and [•]oſeth its acidity and ſharpneſſe, both together make an excellent Medicine, drive both over, let nothing ſtay behinde in the bottom, then you get more than half an aurum [••]tabile, in form, and colour of a deep yellow liquor. Note, that ſome Metals in this manner may be proceeded withall, firſt a Vitriol may be gotten out of the Metal, then a ſpirit is for her driven from it, and joyned in this manner with the Soul, diſſolved, and further digeſted with ſpirit of Wine, all muſt enter together into a Medicine, as I told of formerly, which have their ſpecial efficacie.

The ſecond way to prepare this half aurum potabile, which though it be but half an aurum potabile, yet in vertue and efficacy is far preferred before the other now ſpoken of, and is done as followeth:

Take the extracted Solar Soul, ſpoken of above, put it into a Viol, pour on it the extracted Philoſophick Sulphur, which is the ſecond principle, which is drawn with ſpirit of Mercury from the Philoſophick earth, and Mercury, or the ſpirit of Mercury, unto an Oleity, which now is Sulphur again, and muſt be abſtracted gently per modum diſtillationis.

Of this Philoſophick Sulphur pour on it as much, that the Solar Soul may be diſſolved, let it ſtand in a gentle Bath, let the diſſolution be made, then pour more of the beſt ſpirit of Wine to it, digeſt gently, draw theſe over, let nothing ſtay behinde in the bottom, then you have a Medicine, which doth not want above two Grains of the right and true [•]urum potabile.

Theſe are the chiefeſt wayes to make the corporeal aurum potabile, this I cloſe, and proceed further with a ſhort, but true proceſſe, how the Silver, which is the next to Gold, concerning perfection, is made potable alſo; this proceſſe muſt be done in the following manner.

Take the ſky coloured Sulphur, or ſpirit of Lune, whic[•] was extracted with diſtilled Vinegar, as I informed you i[•] the Particular of Lune, edulcorate it, rectifie it with ſpirit o[•] Wine, exſiccate it, put it in a Viol, pour to it three time[•] as much of ſpirit of Mercury, which is prepared from th[•] white ſpirit of Vitriol, as I faithfully taught you in tha[•] place, lute the glaſſe firmly, ſet it in putrefaction in the vaporous Bath, let all be diſſolved, and nothing more ſeen i[•] the bottom, then put to it an equal quantity of the beſ[•] ſpirit of Wine, ſet it in digeſtion for half a moneth, driv[••] all over, let nothing ſtay behinde, then you have the true potable Lune, which in its efficacie is admirable, and dot[•] wonders when it is uſed.

A deſcription of the fiery Tartar.

DIſtill of good Wine a ſpirit of Wine, rectifie it with white calcined Tartar, let all come over, put that which is diſtilled over into a Viol, put four ounces of well ſublimed Salarmoniac to one quart of ſpirit of Wine, ſet a Helmet upon, ſet a great receiver into cold water, drive the volatile ſpirits into, gently in Balneo Mariae, leave but a little quantity of it behinde. Note, the Alembic muſt alwayes be cooled with wet cloaths, then the ſpirits will be diſſolved, and turn into a liquor. Thus is prepared this hot ſpirit of Wine.

Of the Salt of Tartar.

FIrſt you muſt note, that the Philoſophers Tartar is not the vulgar Tartar, wherewith the Lock is opened, but it is a Salt, which cometh from the root, and is the onely m[•]ſt[•]cal Key for all Metals, and is prepared thus: make a ſharp lixivium of the aſhes of Sarments, or twigs of the Vine, boyl away all its moiſture, there ſtayeth behinde a ruddy [••]tter, which muſt be reverberated for three hours in a fla[•]ing fire, ſtirring it ſtill, let it come to a whiteneſſe, which [••]hite matter muſt be diſſolved in diſtill'd Rain water, let [••]e feces of it ſettle, filter, and coagulate them in a glaſſe [••]at the matter in it be dry, which dry matter is the Salt of [•]artar, from which the true ſpirit is driven.

Note, as I told now of the vertue and qualities of preci[••]s ſtones, ſo there are found alſo many deſpicable, and [••]oble ſtones, which are of great vertues, and experimen[••]lly are known to be of rare qualities, which ignorant, and [••]expert men will hardly give credit unto, neither can they [••]nceive of it in their dull reaſon and underſtanding: the [•]ame I will demonſtrate with the example of Calx vive, [•]hich in mens judgement is held of no great value, and lieth contemptibly in obſcurity, however there is a mighty vertue and efficacie in it, which appeareth, if application be made of it to the moſt heavieſt diſeaſes, ſeing its triumphant and [••]anſcendent efficacie is almoſt unknown for the generality, therefore for the good of ſuch, which are inquiſitive into natural and ſupernatural myſteries, and to whom I diſcloſe theſe myſteries in this my book, I will for a fare-well diſcover alſo this myſtery concerning the Calx vive, and will ſhew in the firſt place, how its ſpirit is driven from it, which work indeed requireth an expert Artiſt, who is well inform'd aforehand of its preparation.

Take u[•]ſluk'd Lyme as much as you will, beat, and grind it on a well-dried ſtone, to an impalpable powder, put on it ſo much of ſpirit of Wine, as the pulveriſed Calx is able to drink, there muſt not ſtand any of that ſpirit upon it, apply a Helmet to it, lute it well, and put a receiver before it abſtract the ſpirit gently from it in Balneo, this abſtracting muſt be iterated eight, or ten times: this ſpirit of Wine ſtrengthneth the ſpirit of Calx mightily, and is made more fiery hot. Take the remaining Calx out of the body, grinde it very ſmall, put to it a tenth part of Salt of Tartar, which is pure, not containing any feces.

As much as this matter weigheth together, add as m[••] of the additional of Salt of Tartar thereunto, namely [〈◊〉] remaining matter, from which was extracted the Salt [〈◊〉] Tartar, and it muſt be well exiccated, all this muſt be mi[••]led together, and put in a well coated Retort, three p[••] of the Retort muſt be empty, take a great receiver, or b[••] to it, very ſtrongly. Note, the body into which the R[••]torts noſe is put, muſt have a pipe of a fingers bread[•]h, u[•]to which may be applied another body, and a quantity [〈◊〉] ſpirit of Wine in it: then give a gentle fire to it, at fi[••] there comes ſome of the phlegme, which falls into the f[••] applied body: the phlegme being all come over, then i[•]creaſe the fire, there cometh a white ſpirit to the upper pa[••] of the body, like unto the white ſpirit of Vitriol, whic[•] doth not fall among the phlegme, but ſlideth through th[•] pipe into the other body, draweth it ſelf into the ſpirit [〈◊〉] Wine, embracing the ſame as one fire doth joyn with th[••] other.

Note, if the ſpirit of Calx be not prepared firſt by the ſpi[•]it of Wine, and drawn off and on, as I told, then he dot[•] [•]ot ſo, but falleth among the phlegme, where he is quench'd, [•]oſeth all its efficacie. Thus difficult a matter is it, to[•] [••]arch nature throughly, reſerving many things unto herſelf. [•]his ſpirit being fully entred into the ſpirit of Wine, then [••]ke off the body, put away the phlegme, but keep care[••]lly the ſpirit of Wine, and ſpirit of Calx: and note, both [••]eſe ſpirits are hardly ſeparated, becauſe they embrace [•]oſely one another: and being diſtilled, they come over [•]y[•]ntly.

Therefore take theſe mix'd and united ſpirits, put them [•]o a Jar-glaſſe, kindle it, the ſpirit of Wine burneth away, [〈◊〉] ſpirit of Calx ſtayeth in the glaſſe, keep it carefully. [••]is is a great arcanum, few of other ſpirits go beyond its [••]cacy, if you know how to make good uſe of it. Its quali[••] may hardly be ſet down in any way of abridgement.

This ſpirit diſſolveth Oculi Cancrorum, the hardeſt Cry[••]: theſe three being driven over together, and often iterated in that diſtilling, three drops of that liquor being mi[••]ed in warm Wine, break, and diſſolve any Gravel and [••]e in mans body, expelling their very roots, not put[••]g the patients to any pain.

This ſpirit of Calx at the beginning looks bluiſh, being [••]tly rectified, looks white, tranſparent, and cl[••]r, leaving [〈◊〉] feces behinde. This ſpirit diſſolveth the moſt fixed [••]wels, and precious ſtones. On the other ſide he fixeth all [••]ti[••] ſpirits with his tranſcendent heat.

This ſpirit conquereth all manner of Podagrical Symp[••]s, be they never ſo nodoſe and tar[••]rous, diſſolveth and [•••]els them radically.

To the omnipotent Trine God, Father, Son, and Holy [••]oſt, be returned hearty thanks for all his benefits, which [〈◊〉] hath beſtowed on man, and diſcovered thoſe ſecrets, I [••]ought on in his name. To him be eternal praiſes. [•]men.

All that hath breath, praiſe the Lord. Allelujah!

End of the fifth part.

BASILIUS VALENTINUS HIS TREATISE CONCERNING MICROCOSME, OR, The little World, which is Mans body.

What it doth contain, and of what it is compoſed, what it doth comprehend, and its end and iſſue.

A thing moſt neceſſarie, and meet for the knowledge of ſuch, that love, and embrace wiſdom.

LONDON, Printed Anno Domini, MDCLVI.

BASILIUS VALENTINUS HIS TREATISE. CONCERNING MICROCOSME.

THoſe that ſ[•]ek Art, and have a deſire to attain to wiſdom, are to note, that the Higheſt, upon my continued prayers hath granted unto me a Clergy-man, to make known the many and great myſteries of nature: among which mans body is one to be conſidered, how that is govern'd in imitation unto Microcoſme. For it is [••]et that the leſſer ſhould imitate the greater, and the ſmalleſt and meaneſt ought to be governed by the greateſt and moſt potent.

Microcoſme, or the great World containeth three things, as the moſt principal, the reſt, which come from theſe, are meerly accidentals. In the firſt place is to be conſidered the matter and form of this World, which matter is made form [〈◊〉] out of a non-ſhape, or a nothing, and the great Creator preſently preſcribed an order for this matter, what government it ſhould keep, as ſoon as it came to a life, or motion. This matter and form is water and earth. For at the Creation by a ſeparation of the water from the earth, there was finiſhed the matter and form, as two things belonging one to another, from theſe all Animals and Vegetables have their beginning, and other two things, as aire and fire, which belong one to another, have wrought life therein. The matter and form is earth, the Salt in that earth, the body: even ſo is with mans body, which is Microcoſme. The matter was n[•] perfect without the form, theſe joyning into one, by God ordinance, the form being become quick, came then to perfection: the matter and form got life by motion, aire w[•] the firſt cauſer of that motion, and perfect maturity was ca[•]ſed by a convenient heat, moveably incloſed in the ai[•]e, thu[•] the earth was brought to a fertility by the aire, it was opened, and became porous by motion for generation. Th[•] earth being impregnated, made her ſeed apparent by he aquoſity, then aire and heat in the neather and upper Regi[•]on of the Aſtrals cauſed that a Birth was brought forth, th[•] bloſſoms were produced, and the appointed fruit was ripened by concoction of heat.

Calcidity is a Sulphureous hot ſpirit, w[•]ich like a Medicament exiccateth the ſuperfluous groſſe aquoſity & phlegmatick matter, which in the generation at the beginning abounds too much in the earth, before the aire could have a fellow dominion at the joyning with it, carrying the ſame along in the ſuperfluity of her birth.

The ſecond principal part of Microcoſme is inobility, for the matter in it ſelf was without life, which by hea[•] was ſtirr'd up, then the vital ſpirit became to be ſenſible, which is in man a Sulphurous ſpirit, kindling the body by a heat, exiccateth the ſuperfluity of the earth by the ſubtility of its ſubſtance, and governeth the body in a conſtant motion. For after the heat is gone, then coldneſſe gets the dominion, the ſpirit of life being gone, no ſenſibleneſſe felt in the pulſe and arteries, and a dead body is found inſtead of life, at the departing of the warm ſpirit of Sulphur; rational men ought to take this myſtery into conſideration.

The two firſt Elements, the matter and form, being apparent, and having gotten a mobility by the two laſt Elements by light, Microcoſme was not yet perfect, the Creator allotted further an increaſe to the ſeed of the earth, as well as he did to Vegetables and Animals. God allowed unto earth an imagination for all ſorts of ſeeds, and to bring them forth after their ſeveral kindes. Then the earth was impregnated by imagination which God allotted, and the [•]aith brought theſe ſeeds forth in Mans preſence, and the [•]eat digeſted them to a maturity even till hi herto.

Matter and form of Microcoſme being extant, conſiſting of earth and water, then the Creator cauſed a life into them [•]y an inbreathed warm aire, heating the cold earthly ſub[•]tance, giving a heat u[•] o life and mo[•]ion, which was the [•]oul, which is the true Sulphur of Man, ſpiritual in compre[•]enſible; ſenſibly felt by its own operation. All this being [••]niſh'd, [••]en God allowed an imagination unto good, in the [•]erfect underſtanding of Man, that by his imagination he [•]uld judge of all the beaſts, and impoſe on each a proper [•]ame, and by that imagination he learned to know his [•]ife alſo, that ſhe had fl[•]ſh and bones of his body. Then [•]in appea[•]ed perfect, and that matter was made into a [•]hape, of a ſenſible body. This form being made alive by [•]he Soul, had allowed further a ſub[•]ile [•]pirit unto imagi [•][•]ion and knowledge, which is an inviſible, and in[•••]pre[•]enſible form, like a work maſter, who frameth [〈◊〉] things [•]n the minde, which hath its habitation in the upper Re[•]ion of Microcoſme, according to his volatility, and deſer[•]eth the name of Mercurie, of the inviſible ſpirit of mans [•]ody. Form and matter is earthly, the life ſticketh in the [•]otion, and the knowledge of every underſtanding unto [•]ood and bad ſtandeth in the ſharp ſpeculation of Micro[••]ſme, the overplus found beſides theſe three, nature ca[•]eth off as a Cadaver, and is as a Monſter, which by the[••] [•]hree is found to be a ſeparation, and a Cantit mort.

If glorified Elias were preſent, and the A[•••]als could [•]peak, and ſilent nature had a tongue to expreſſe hereof, [•]hen I needed not to bring in any further evidence to per[•]wade the incredulous, who conſidered not judiciouſly this [•]y ſaying: for a man poſſeſſed with blindneſſe cannot paſſe [•]y judgement upon my writings: b[••] underſtanding [•]udgeth impatience, and wiſdom ſeparateth herſelf from fol[••] by her own experience.

This Vital ſpirit nouriſheth, feedeth, and preſerveth h[•]ſelf by the Ole[••]y of mans Sulphur, which is predominan[•] the bloud, and with, or through it doth work in [•]he wh[•] body, that the ſubſtance may be perfect. This Vital ſ[•] is Mercury, which is found in man, and is preſerved by Oleity of its likeneſſe; beſides theſe two, Mercury and S[•]phur, there is a third thing in man, namely Salt, which h[•] in the fl[•]ſh, body, and bones.

The Salt miniſtreth its nobleſt ſpirit for a nouriſhm[•] unto the bloud, which ſaltneſſe is found therein by taſte, and diſperſeth it ſelf [•]hroughout the body, pre[•]veth mans body like a Balſam from pu[•]efaction, and is the band and copulation, whereby Me[•]cury, or the V[•] ſpirit continueth the longer with the Balſam in the fl[••] & dwelleth together in one. For in the Salt there lieth a ſ[•]rit, which muſt protect all other Balſams in their worth a dignity. The remainder found in the fleſh, if theſe th[•] be taken from it, is a dead thing, as I told formerly, and good for nothing, nor can it be uſed for any thing.

As this Union, Dominion, and Government is in Ma[•] the like are in Metals, Minerals, and Vegetables, wh[•] make up their perfect body, do live, keep, and are preſerv[•] in the like manner, as man is. As the one followeth up the other in Man, according to order in the like conditi[•] are other Animals after their ki[•]de and property. As a C[•] is an Animal, her food, as graſſe, is Vegetable, this Veg[•]table by the heat of the Cows body is putrified, in that p[•]trefaction is made a ſeparation, which is the Key of all d[•]ſolutions and ſeparations, ſeparation being made, then goe[•] the ſubtile ſpirit, the ſubtile Sulphur, and the ſubtile Salt the Vegetable's ſubſtance of the graſſe into all Members the whole body of the Cow, the ſpirit ruleth the beaſt, t[•] Sulphur nouriſheth it, and the Salt preſerveth it.

This being done, then nature diſtributeth her gifts fu[•]ther, making a new ſeparation; as of the ſuperfluou[•]neſſ[•] which the Cow doth not aſſume by way of aſſimilation, a[•] muſt part with it, and diſtributeth the ſame further, and th[•] [〈◊〉] Milk, this Milk is an Anim[•]l ſubſtance, tranſmuted from the Vege[•]able In this Milk is made another ſeparation by fire, which muſt be kept gently. For the ſubtileſt ſpirit of the Milk together with the Sulphu[•] ſublimeth, is taken off, and turned to a coagulated far[••]ſſe, which is butter. The [•]eſt is ſeparated by other means, and precipitated, and [••]hereby is made another ſeparation, this is a ſecond coagu[•]ation, out of which men make their food: of the overp[•]us [•]s made another ſeparation by fi[•]e, not ſo far as the former [•]wo: at laſt there rem[•]ineth an aquoſity, and is of no grea[•] [•]ſ[•]fulneſſe, becauſe the ſpirit and its nutriment [•]s taken [•]rom it by the ſ[•]veral ſeparations.

After this nature maketh to a further putrefaction a[•]other [•]nd groſſe excretion of a Sulphureous and Salt [•]ubſtance, which generateth afreſh a living ſpirit, which is the [•]xcre[•]ent, this ſerveth for the earth to be manured withall, ma[•]ing the earth fertil by its Sulphur and Salt, as being of a [•]oſſe and fat ſubſtance, whereby new fruits are produced, [•]ere is another nutriture from an Animal into a Vegetable. [•]his maketh Wheat, and other Fruits, and Grains to grow, [•]roducing again a nutriment from the Vegetables unto A[•]imals. Thus one nature doth follow after the other, by [•]ulgar people not ſo much comprehended, or ſearch'd into, [•]ot caring to learn natures qualities ſo much, which m[•]xeth [•]ach natural things ſeem to be incredible.

To return again to the ſtructure of Man, the nobleſt ſpiri[•] [•]f life hath its dominion and ſeat for the moſt part, an[•]t [•]oſt ſtrongly in the heart of mans body, as in the noble [•]art: and the Sulphur of man [•]iveth unto tha[•] ſpirit a nu[•]iment, and ſpiritual acceſſe for its preſervation by the a[•]re[•]or if aire be taken away from man, then ſpiri[•] of li[•]e is hoak'd up, departeth inviſibly, and death is at h[••]d. The noble Salt ſpirit is a conſerver of both, its nobl[•]ſt ſpi[•]t penetrateth throughout, the groſſeſt matter of [〈◊〉] Sa [•] is [•]aſt into the bladder, and that hath a ſpi[•]it of a pe[•]ial [•]peration. That which goeth from the Salt throu[•]h[•] the [•]adder, is wrought upon by a hear, miniſtreth a n[•]w [••]ceſſe, or increaſe, ſo that this increaſe of Salt in man is i[•] exhauſtible, unleſſe it die qu[•]te, and the body be burn[•] to aſhes, and the remainder be extracted. As for an e[•]ample; Take the Salts from Minerals, let theſe grow agai[•] coagulate, and extract the Salt again by water, the like ſeen in nitrous earths alſo, and other common Salts, a[••] there needs not to quote any further examples.

The ſpirit of life hath its proceſſe into other Member from the heart, into bones, arms, and the reſt of the bo[•] that are ſtirring; In diſeaſes and ſymptomes he is wea[•] and man by reaſon of ſuch ſymptomes, cannot perform h[•] buſineſſe in that full ſtrength as at other times, when he in health, feedeth and cheriſheth his body with Veget[•]ble ſpirits, which come from feeding on bread, mea[•] and drinking of wines, then his body groweth ſtronge[•] and his Vital ſpirit groweth potent by ſuch nutriments, i[•] his ſuperfluity diſperſeth himſelf into all Members, an[•] ſheweth his operation. If the heart groweth faint, the[•] is it a ſigne that the Vital ſpirit is not nouriſhed, upo[•] which there enſue ſpeedily deadly diſeaſes; becauſe tha[•] fire is not at liberty, and falls into an extinction, or choal[•]ing.

The fire in the heart, and the natural heat is preſerve[•] and ſupported by the aire, of that aire the Lungs ſtan[•] moſt in need of: the Liver alſo muſt have aire, elſe it ca[•]not laugh: the Spleen muſt have aire, elſe it will be oppreſſ't with ſtitchings and great pains: the true ſeat for th[•] moſt part o[•] [•••]aire is neceſſary for the Lungs, if theſe fa[•] into any we[•]k[•]eſſ[•], the cauſe thereof is, becauſe the Sal[•] doth no[•] ſh[•]w its true, and meet help, and muſt go int[•] rottenneſſe caſting up bloud and matter: then there is a[•] hand a corruption of the aire, from which the Vital ſpiri[•] cannot finde any true nouriſhment, but muſt be ſtarved becauſe the Salt doth not effect its conſerving quality, th[•] Sulphur, and the increaſe of the nouriſhment is obſtructed, and is not perfect, whereby are cauſed Conſumptions, witherings of the body, conſuming of the fleſh, and exiccation of the bloud, and of the marrow. The ſubſtance of Salt, o[•] the Salt ſpirit, which preſerveth the body, hath its [•]eat for the moſt part in the bladder, where all humidities have their iſſue, the rem[•]ining groſſe Salt is ſeparated, and excerned by Urine, as you heard already. I repeat it here again for that end, becauſe the moſt noble ſpirit, which doth preſerve man, doth copulate, and maketh friendſhip with the Vital ſpirit and its nutriment, which is Sulphur, and ſo they make the body perfect, and if any informity be incident, either from the operation, or defective quality of the Stars, or from a diſorderly life in eating and drinking, and many other inconveniences, and any corruption be preſent, then nature is not in her perfect condition. Here the knowing Phyſician muſt enquire into the cauſe, from which of theſe three the Symptome doth ariſe, and cure the ſame with convenient remedies, and not with any contrary Medicines: as heat muſt be cured with heat, cold with cold, pricking with pricking: for one heat draweth the other, one cold draweth another, even as Iron is drawn by a Magnet; and ſo pricking ſimples may cure ſtiching diſeaſes, and poyſonous Minerals can heal, and bring to right poyſonous Symptomes, if they be duely and well prepared. And although ſometimes externally a cooler be ſupplied, however I ſpeak as a Philoſopher, and one that is experienced in nature, that like muſt be cured and expelled fundamentally with the like, otherwiſe true Medicaments are not applied, and the Phyſicians deal not really in their profeſſion. He that is not fundamentally learned herein, or doth nor obſerve theſe things, he is not a true Phyſician, neither can he really ſay that he hath learned any truth in Phyſick, becauſe he is not able to diſcern cold and heat, drie and wet: for knowledge and experience, and a fundamental inquiry into natures myſteries make a good Phyſician next the knowledge of the Creator, from whom all, and every wiſdom doth deſcend, and is the Author of the beginning, middle, and end thereof.

Next the invocation of the Creator, there follow nat[•]ral means and Medicaments, as they are found in themſelves in their higheſt degree; I make no further me[•]tion here of other Animals: Metals and Minerals follo[•] next, for in Gold, Silver, and other Metals, even to t[•] ſeventh and laſt Planet, are hid excellent things, Mercu[•] being predominant in all, in ſome more than in other and Minerals alſo are not without their vertuous Med[•]cines, and the former ſeven Planets were in their beginnin[•] onely Minerals.

The Tincture of Sol together with the potable Gol[•] and Silver are of great efficacy. Mercury ruleth Microcoſme: that, which is found in the beſt Metals and mo[•] precious ſtones may be drawn alſo, if need be from Minerals. For perfect Metals are grown, or have their de[•]ſcent from Minerals, as from Vitriol, Antimony, and th[•] like. Vitriol is Sulphur, Antimony is Mercury, the Sa[•] which is the copula, or binder, is found in both, if theſ[•] are made fix are like unto the beſt Metals, for they a[•] generated by them: Minerals come from the three principles, as well as Metals: the three principles come from their prima materia, called primum Ens, which is nothing elſe but a watery ſubſtance found dry, is not likened to any matter which is grown, and is preſerved by the fou[•] Elements, and theſe are cheriſhed, or nouriſh't by Aſtrals. The Creator hath ordained all theſe out of [〈◊〉] nought, becauſe man ſhould not gaze onely upon earthly matters, but conſider heavenly ones alſo, and ought to know things ſupernatural, that faith may over top the reſt, and have the prerogative in things ſeen and felt, and be preſerved therein.

If Phyſicians do not underſtand theſe things, they ought not to be held for Phyſicians, for the knowledge of God and of nature make a Phyſician, as I told of it formerly, and not great prating without true knowledge; Good writings of expert men may conduce ſomewhat hereunto.

In brief, humane reaſon in Phyſicians is not able to compr[••]end ſufficiently, muc[•] leſſe are they able to decide, fathom, and fully learn, what manner Medicaments there may be made of Microcoſme, for he containeth a perfect Medicine for all diſeaſes, like with like muſt be expelled and cured. Mercurie of Microcoſme is a living, incomprehenſible, and volatile ſpirit, as I have told.

Mans Balſam drieth up a Dropſie, and the clarified Salt of it cu[•]eth Conſumptions; in Epileptick fits it doth excellent well, and being prepared into a fragrant ſpirit, all corroſiveneſſe being taken from it, is nothing inferiour unto aurum potabile, to preſerve mans health; it is very excellent for curing Leproſie: Paſſing by ſuch diſeaſes, which are of a lower nature and degree, it breaketh the ſtone in the bladder, and cureth all Salt Rheums, if the Ar[•]iſt prepareth it well, and knoweth how to make uſe of it afterward.

Thus I cloſe with Microcoſme, contained in few lines, much more could be ſpoken of this matter, or form, mobility and imagination, how they were brought unto perfection. For if theſe ſtand together in a true middle, will make up a ſweet Harmony: for without the matter, or form of the body, without the moving of the powers, and defect of perfect thoughts Ortheus will not pleaſe the Dolphin with any harmonious melody: as it is with man, ſo it is with Metals: Mercury is the mobile in Gold, if the body be anatom[•]zed: Sulphur is hot, being driven from a Mineral and fixed, drieth the phlegmatick Lune, warmeth her, maketh her Soul equal unto himſelf. In the matter and form there lieth a Salt, which affords the coagulation of the body: the remainder in the Gold put away, for ſeparation will afford a further revelation.

Vegetables alſo ſhew the form of their three principles, the viſible matter containeth the Vegetable Salt, which is its conſe[•]vative, the fragrancy of the Vegetable is the Balſam, which miniſters a nouriſhment unto its perfect growth, the odour, or ſmell of any Herb is of a volatile quality, and ſpiritual, and the ſpirit for the moſt part ſheweth it ſelf in the frangrancy, and penetrateth the Balſam, and its odour, be it pleaſant, or not, is the eſſence, whereby men in their ſenſes learn the condition and properties of Vegetables. For other things I have written, I praiſe the Lord, which dwelleth on high. Thus cloſing I wiſh to every one the grace and bleſſing of God the Creator of all Creatures, that they may be bleſſ[•]d, wiſe, and rich, both in this temporal and corruptible World, and in the other World attain to an eternal bliſſe. Amen.

Of the Mysterie of Microcoſme, its Medicinal parts belonging unto Man, written by BASILIUS VALENTINUS.

TO make uſe of the heavenly Revelation, about two Luminaries, and of the myſteries of the whole Medicine, which lieth in that marvellous inſtrument of Microcoſme, within and w[•]thout, that is, in the body, and without, as ordinary wounds, Sores, Ulcers, that have their cauſe from within, have their deſcent from one root, however, muſt be ſeverally prepared and dreſs't. For that within is not like to that which is without, in reſpect of their operation; but in reſpect of their form and matter they are under one judgement. And that I may rightly inform my fellow Chriſtian, I muſt needs acknowledge and confeſſe, that there are two Medicines, which heal all diſeaſes and ſymptomes, be they whatſoever, and are made of one, the one is called PHALAIA, and is for inward uſe, the other is called ASA, is for external cures: both may be called to be onely One, they differ onely in their preparation; how both muſt be brought to their operative quality, the way unto it is ſhewed in my Manuals. For they muſt firſt be rightly known, and their nature muſt be ſearched into. Their matter is One, which by that exp eſſion I purpoſely h[•]ld it forth leaſt it ſhould be made too common, I after [•]he manner of Ancient Philoſophers before m[•], hiding ſecrets under dark ſentences, hoping by the prayers of others to have their Souls ſaved, and received into that Garden, in which our firſt Parents were created.

No[•]e, both Medicines are made of one matter, as I have already informed you. If uſed inwardly, it takes away all manner of informities: the matter is putrified, ſeparated, and in a ſpagyrick way purged in the beſt manner, and brought to a Medicine of the higheſt degree, by fixing its own nature, which muſt brought to paſſe in the fire. Its fo[•]mer poyſonous volatile quality muſt be rectified, by being prepared to an everlaſting fixedneſſe, which expels, purges, and rectifies all malignant ſpirits, that a good nature may live quietly in a pure habitation. For this prepareth Medicine, keepeth that courſe, whereever it [••]eetheth with any malignity, it will be revenged on it, and ſtriveth to expell it, and will ſolely keep poſſeſſion there: for ſhe cannot endure any contrary things about her, which are defiled wi[•]h the leaſt impurity.

PHALAIA is the Univerſal Medicine to be uſed inwardly, and ASA is the Univerſal remedy for outward uſes: it put fieth mans bloud, taketh away all impurity, ſtrengthneth the brain, heart, ſtomack, and all other parts, cauſeth good bloud, ſtrengthneth the memory, repaireth the d[•]fects, which are befall'n the three principles, reſtore[•]h all loſt things: it is the very Key, whereby the body is opened: for it chaſeth away Leproſie, Dropſie, Conſumptions, Gout, and all other diſeaſes generally; for no ſinfull Creature is fall'n ſo totally, but ſhe may have a com[•••]t unto ſalvation in a ſpiritual way, and a Medicine unto health, appointed thereunto by the Creator, which is had if nature be anatomized by an expert Artiſt, to be prepared for that uſe.

Here I ſpeak of ſuch diſeaſes, which by ſome are called incurable: for ordinary diſeaſes there are ordinary means, which here are not mentioned, the uſes of them are mentioned in a ſpecial Treatiſe.

But of my PHALAIA I ſay thus much, according to my long experience, that nothing can conceal, or hide it ſelf from her, being a penetrating ſearcher into all infirmities, ſhe penetrateth the body ſpiritually like a fume, penetrateth the Arteries, Muſcles, and all the parts of the body like a Balſam, reſtoreth ſtrength which was loſt by her Salt ſpirit. Further, I cannot ſpeak in the praiſing of my PHALAIA, ſhe being a praiſe to ſuch that make uſe of her. He that getteth this PHALAIA tightly, to him is ſhe ſufficient for to cure all diſeaſes. No tongue is able to expreſſe, and ſet forth fully her vertues.

As diſeaſes do differ, which are incident unto the body, ſo there are means for their cure: but this Medicine cureth all diſeaſes in general, being of an heavenly fidereal quality, deſcended from the Elements, and generated by the three principles, coming from the very heart of its Center of the whole circumference of the Globe performeth all, affording to Microcoſme a perfect Medicine found ſo really, according as the name imports her vertue, but if rightly made and prepared, the uſe of it will prove it ſufficiently.

ASA is found in ye operation, for external Symptoms, as old Ulcers, Fiſtulaes, Cancers, which made many Chirurgians doubt whether ever they may be cured; but this ASA hath made the cure: it conſumeth all bad bloud, which was fall'n into corruption, and may be inwardly uſed, becauſe it will then exiccate, and dry up the fountains, from whence ſpring all manner of Sores, Fiſtulaes, Cancers, Wolves, noli me tangere, running Legs, Worms, and the like, be it on what part of the body, where Plaiſters, Pulteſſes, and the like cannot help, and are not ſtrong enough, this alone will do it. For freſh wounds, be they made by ſtobbing, cutting, ſlaſhing, it needs not to be adminiſtred, being too ſtrong for ſuch wounds, gentler means are fitter for them; Balſams, Oyls, Plaiſters, may heal[•]neſ[•], either outwardly, or inwardly; Powders and potions may be prepared. Symptomes in wounds, having their cauſes from within, muſt be cured by ſearching into them, and the means for their cure muſt be prepared of that ſtrength, that they may reach home. As in this matter, things muſt be united, and be taken from the generation of ABIHAIL, being joyned in their principles of the fi[•]ſt eſſence, by nature's means, its brought to the higheſt perfection, whereby ſuch Sores, U[•]cers, &c. are fundamentally cured. For ordinary wounds there is no need of it, if no Symptomes are at hand, and the party endangered, a Balſam onely will perform the deed, mollifying the fleſh, and nature will further, and promote the cure

Be thankfull next God to me, that hath taught you inward and outward Medicines, and are ſuch, which others before me have concealed, they can cure fundamentally any Symptomes, be they within, or without on the body, ſuch vertues are not found in Out-landiſh woods, drugs, or herbs: Forrainers have their proper climates, under which they have convenient Phyſical Vegetables: our climate affords unto us proper Medicinal Vegetables, Animals, and Minerals for our conſtitution; onely Doctors are not expert to make their Medicinal preparations out of them. I hold with my Phyſick PHALAIA and ASA of one name in their deſcent, whereby nature hath made me to be a Phyſician; it keepeth good to the laſt, preſerveth man in health and ſtrength all the time the Creator hath appointed for him: vertue it hath ſhewed triumphantly in many parties, obtaining victory againſt all its enemies, and it was apparent to the world, that theſe two Medicines PHALAIA and ASA of one kinde, and of one matter made and prepared: and it is found dayly, that in the generality they can ſet all into a perfect degree, as being deſcended from the Center, can preſerve the Center as the Root, and can bring things to right within and without, tending to that end, for which it is prepared.

Thus I wiſh the Reader, to whom I f[•]ithfully intimate the Manuals of it, proſperity and ſucceſſe in the preparation of it, that it may be unto his health: the work will praiſe the Maſter, upon Oath I further inform you t us, that four things are required to make a perfect Philoſopher and true Phyſician.

Firſt, he muſt be importunate and fervent in his devotion to God, as the higheſt heavenly Phyſician, to aſk of him grace, wiſdom, underſtanding, and his bleſſing upon his undertakings, that it may appear unto the world, that God grants things for the good of men, that he may be p[•]aiſed and magnified for ſuch benefits: and is to ſhew himſelf in his life and converſation godly and honeſt.

Secondly, a Phyſician ought to know the diſeaſes, and to diſtinguiſh the one from the other, and what proper remedies he is to uſe againſt theſe diſeaſes: for without the knowledge of diſeaſes a Phyſician is not perfect: mans complexion muſt be diſcerned, the cauſe of the diſeaſe ſearch'd into, and the means well conſidered, that no contraries be applied, whereby further troubles are cauſed▪ proper remedies fitting the diſeaſe muſt be applied, that reſtitution be made unto former health.

Thirdly, it is requiſite, that he read frequently the writings of ancient Philoſophers, and read them over and over, and take notice in what they do concurre and agree, and where they aim all at one mark, then he that hath underſtanding will diſcern the good from the bad, Sophiſtry from truth: the ancients knew many good things, for mine own part I muſt confeſſe, that I borrowed the foundation of my knowledge from them, which made me to lay it to heart, and am thereby moved to leave for others alſo a corner-ſtone, that truth may further be confirmed, and the grounds of it be made eaſier, clearer, plainer, and more manifeſt by a further knowledge of my writing.

Fourthly, a Philoſopher muſt learn to Anatomize things in nature, to know what they contain within and without, to ſeparate the poyſon from the Medicinal quality. Hereunto belong ſeveral Manuals, how to diſſolve, ſeparate, exalt, and prepare fully Metals, Minerals, Vegetables, and Animals. He that ha[•]h learned all theſe, he may diſcourſe wiſely of things, confirm their grounds in truth; but others, which are aſh[•]med to work herein, cannot glory in any truth: becauſe by the receipts found in other mens writings, are theſe men led, and made a trade of other mens wri[•]ings, not endeavouring to learn more in thei[•] own experience: I am not aſhamed to learn dayly, becauſe nature is [•]ound and endleſſe, cannot be comprehended fully, by reaſon of the ſhortneſſe of mans life, and none can ſay that there is nothing left more for him to learn. No ſuch matter. Thus you ſee, that Gods bleſſing muſt be obtained by fervent and frequent praying unto God, the cauſes of diſeaſes muſt be known, their cure muſt be ordered according to the direction of Philoſophick writings, [•]djoyning an experimental knowledge thereunto. He that doth, and knoweth [•]heſe four things may glory in his wayes, confirming things in deeds, and not to exerciſe a trade upon other mens receipts. My Medicaments, if well prepared and duely uſed, will by Gods help make known, that they received their ſtrength from God, the marvellous Creator to perform theſe things, which ignorants, and men of li tle faith cannot comprehend: by dayly experience faith getteth ſtrength, that man may praiſe the higheſt, who hath put ſuch ve[••••]s into natural things, for the which mortals are not able to return ſufficient thanks. As much as lieth in my power I will praiſe the Lord day and night, and is not poſſible to require him in any other way. At the cloſing obſerve thus much; in School long diſcourſes are made of the three principles of all things, of the matter of heaven, what it is made of, and on what the earth doth reſt, how the Elements were made, and of the beginning of the Firmament, and of ſeveral opinions they are about the original cauſes of Metals Minerals, Vegetables, of their qualities and proper[•]ies, o[•] the original of man, and of other A[•]imal[•], ſ[•••]ching in their conceits into their lives, vertues, &c. Bu[•] my Sonne hearken unto me, and take notice of what I ſay: all their pretended ſayings are a meer nothing, they ſpeak ignorantly without any certainty: becauſe they have no experimental knowledge, having laid no foundation, nor have they learned any true deciſion in their demonſtration[•] Thoughts pay no Cuſtom, or Toll, they fly into heaven, deſcend to the neathermoſt parts of the earth, if experience & their thought do not concurre, then their though[•]s are found a meer opinion, then they muſt confeſſe, I d[•]d not think it could be ſo! Mans thoughts are fi[•]ly compared with a dream, becauſe nothing follows upon an imagination; Natures ſecrets muſt be ſtudied exp[•]rimentally. If Artiſts, or Mechanicks would imagine to work ſuch, or ſuch things, be it Watches, or other curious Metalline works, but doth not invent fit inſtruments, whereby to make that work they have in their fancy, what can they produce by that imagination? An empty opinion, and no Art. So in the knowledge of Na[•]ural things, their ſecrets require a[•] greater exactneſſe to be ſearched i[•]to, which to lazy unexpert men ſeem ſtrange and impoſſible. I tell you there is required an exact diligence to finde that, which lieth [•]i[••] in them, it muſt be done by ſeparation. Nature muſt be anatom[•]zed, good and bad in it muſt be diſcerued, what is contained in each in its Center, for the general, and what cometh from it in particular.

Therefore Macrocoſme and Microcoſme, yea, the things which grow and are found therein, are compared to a round Circle, in whoſe middle there is a Center, let the Circle be turned which way it will, it keepeth round every way, and its Center ſtayeth unremoved. A Philoſopher alſo muſt know rightly the Center of each matter, which muſt ſtand unremoved in every ſubſtance, but the ſubſtance may be turned any way he pleaſeth, and make of it ſeveral forms, according as it received its power from above. [〈◊〉] ſpeak now to be taken notice of thus: I take in hand any natural thing, diſſolve, or open it by a Key, which is the means of the unfolding, and ſearch therein by a fire's proof, which is the maſter of all proofes, what may be made of it: Here I finde as many wonders and qualities, which I never [•]hought of, much leſſe had I experience of.

Of natural things are made Powders, Oyls, Water, Salt, volatile ſpirits and fumes: In theſe preparations are beheld wonders upon wonders, witneſſe the diſtillations, digeſtions, and putrefactions. There are found and ſeen many ſpiri[•]ual and corporeal colours, which appear black, gray, white, blew, green, yellow, red, Azure colour with a re[••]exion of all manner of inſprinckled colours, which cannot well be deſcribed, and unexpert men hardly believe it. [•]rom theſe preparations are ſeveral qualities felt, the one [〈◊〉] corroſive and ſharp, the other is pleaſant and milde, the [•]ne is ſowre, the other is ſweet, according as they are pre[•]ared, ſo they yield good and bad, poyſon, or phyſick: for good thing can be made the worſt poyſon, and the worſt [•]oyſon can be turned into the beſt Medicine: which is not [〈◊〉] great a marvel, becauſe all lieth in the preparation of [••]ings: though every one cannot conceive of it, yet it is ſo, [•]nd will be a truth for ever, becauſe nature hath manifeſted [••]r ſelf thus by experience.

A blinde man cannot tell how the inward parts of mans [••]dy are conditioned, but the ſeeing Phyſician, who ana[••]mizeth the body, he can judge of the ſituation of the [•]eart, Brain, Liver, Lungs, Reins, Bladder, of the Entrals, [••]d of all the Veins, and knoweth in what form and condi[•]on they are. But before he hath made this anatomy, all [•]eſe were hid from him, a Myner which ſeeketh ſo Oars, [〈◊〉] doth not know what riches he may expect from Metals, [••]leſſe he open the Oar, and ſo fine it: what he findeth in [〈◊〉] by fire, then he may know really in his calculation, what [••]hes he may expect from it. So other things muſt be pro[••]ded in, which true Naturaliſts will endeavour to do, and not prate of things onely without experimental knowledge, diſputing of colours with the blinde man; learn to know the ground with your own eyes and hands, which Nature hideth within her, then you may ſpeak wiſely of them with good reaſon, and you may build upon an invincible Rock. If you do not ſo, then you are but a Phantaſtick prater, whoſe diſcourſe is grounded on ſand without experience, and is ſoon ſhaken by every winde, and ruined in the end. The ground of this knowledge muſt be learned as you heard, by anatomizing and ſeparating of things, which by diſtillation is made known: where every Element is ſeparated apart, there it will be made known what is cold, or moiſt, warm, or dry. There you learn to know the three principles, how the ſpirit is ſeparated from the body, and how the Oyl is ſeparated from the water, and how the Sale is drawn from the Caput mort of each matter, and is reduced again into a ſpirit, and how theſe three are afterward joyn'd again, and by fire are brought into one body. Further is here learn'd, how each after its ſeparation, and afterward in a conjunction may profitably and ſafely be uſed for their ſeveral uſes they are prepared for: all which muſt be done by a medium. At the firſt Creation man is earthy & groſſe, but his Soul, Spirit, and Body, being ſeparated by death, putrifieth under ground, and when the Higheſt cometh to judgement, he is raiſed again, his Body, Soul, and ſpirit cometh together, according to Faith and Scripture; that body is no more earthy, as it was formerly, but is found heavenly and clarified, glittering as the Stars in the Eaſt, and like the Sun is ſeen, when all the Clouds are paſt. So it is here, when earthineſſe is broken, divided, and ſeparated, then the three principles of the dead ſubſtance are made apparent, the dead one is forſaken, the living power comes to her perfection, becauſe her obſtruction is laid aſide, that the vertue in the operation may be manifeſted; In this ſeparation and manifeſtation is then known what theſe three principles are, which are ſo much diſcourſed of, namely Mercury, Sulphur, and Salt, according to the condition of the ſubject. He that doth not think it to be true, let him go to the end of the World, where he ſhall feel all what in his dumb capacity he could not comprehend: if any one ſhould intend to teach me any other with a prolixity of words, he may fill me with words, but he muſt prove it really alſo, for without that I am not bound to believe his words, but deſire ſome ſign as Thomas, one of the Twelve, who look'd for an Ocular demonſtration: I might have left out Thomas, but being there is a clift between a ſpiritual and worldly unbeliever, I gave liberty to my minde to ſpeak it, for there is a great difference in heavenly and worldly matters, touching faith and things comprehenſible, and there is that difference found alſo in fidereal & earthly things: for fidereal things are comprehended by ſharp imagination, and Arithmatick rules, but to the finding out of earthly things there belongeth ſpeculation and ſeparation: with ſpeculation muſt be joyned an intention, and an apprehenſion is annexed to ſpeculation, the former is done ſpiritually, becauſe the ſpirit of man doth not reſt, deſireth to apprehend more qualities of the ſpirit in things natural: every ſpirit ſtil draweth its like: the reſt is earthy: for an earthy body ſeparateth by manuals the earthly body from the ſpiritual part, and ſo the one may be diſcerned before and from the other. Whereas the ſoul in both ſheweth her ſelf really, therefore is ſhe in all really, for ſhe tieth the heavenly and earthy together like a bond, but when the heavenly is [•••]arated from [〈◊〉] [•••]rthy, that the ſoul alſo muſt forſake her body, then you [〈◊〉] [•••]arated and received the three, each apa[•]t, which a[••••] [〈◊〉] true knowledge and conjunction can afford ſuch a trium[••]ing and clarifyed body which is found in a better degree of many thouſand times, becauſe the groſſeſt is laid aſide from the earthy.

For when heaven and earth come to be refined by the great Creator, then the greateſt part will be conſumed by fire, and by that purging it will be exalted to the ſame degree with the heavenly, and ſet into the ſame line, for each all is created by one, each all is ordained by one, and though through ſin by one man all was corrupted unto death, yet all is by one brought to a better State of life: and the onely Creator intends to judge all by fire, and all muſt again become one, which will be that heavenly eſſence, to which the earthl gave way by means of the fire: the eternall glory leaving a room for devil and death, from whence they ſhall look on the elect, admiring the great Majeſty and glory of God, which in a divine eſſence of three diſtinct perſons is all in all: and hath created all.

Thus the three perſons in the deity have held forth in us their inviſible eſſence, giving thereby to underſtand by an inſearchable wiſdom, what their creature & order is: we men are too weak to come higher; God is and will be God, and we men muſt be content with ſuch gifts aff[••]ded unto us: hereafter ſhall be accompliſhed that which is propheſied of by Prophets and Apoſtles, and now are conceived of onely by way of faith, therefore we ought now to be contented, what by Nature is intimated in a viſible way: other things incomprehenſible unto us, & matters of faith, wil appear better to be underſtood at the end of the world, God grant unto us all a true knowledge of [••]mporal goods and of the eternall.

At the cloſing of this I ſay, that this is the whole Art and whole foundation of all the Philoſophick ſpeech in which is that ſought; which many deſire, taking great pains, and making great expences, namely to get wiſdom and judgement, a long life, health & riches of this world comprehended in few words; as for example. Firſt you muſt know, that I wi[••] ſhew unto you ſuch an example of th[••] [〈◊〉] [••]nals, which in the appearance is a mean and poor on[•] [〈◊〉] [•]f a mihgty conſequence, if rightly conſidered, The [〈◊〉] [•]ayeth an egg, the ſame egg is by heat brought to a hard [〈◊〉] or coagulation; by a further heat it is brought to a putrefaction, where it it corrupted: in this putrefaction the egg receiveth a new Genus, wherein is raiſed a new life, and a chicken is hatch'd, This chicken being perfect, the ſhell openeth making way for the chichen to creep forth, this chicken coming to a further ripeneſs & age, increaſeth further in her kinde. Thus Nature furthereth her own kinde, and augmetteth Uſque ad infinitmm. True, the egg is not prima materia of the Cock or Hen, but the prima materia of their fleſh is the firſt ſeed, out of which the egg is gone into a form, which by the equal nature of the motion of both is driven together and united, from thence by a further heat it went to a putrefaction, from thence into a new birth, which new birth ſtill propagateth and increaſeth.

So it is with man, for one man alone cannot produce a new birth, unleſs both ſeeds of male and female be united, for after this conjunction through the Nutriment of the body, and continued naturall heat of theſe two ſeeds, which in the Center are known for one Nature, get a new life, and more men are begotten, which propagate further by their ſeed, by this means the whole world is fill'd with men. This ſeed of man is the nobleſt ſubtileſt blood of a white quality, in which dwelleth the vital Spirit, which is driven together by motion. If theſe ſeeds of both kindes by their deſire of luſt are together united, and their Natures be not corrupted, or elſe are contrary one to another, then there is preſerved a life by a heat, and brought to perfection in the mothers womb, and another man is brought forth, Thus much be ſpoken of the ſeed of Animals.

The vegetable ſeed is made palpable and viſible which from each kinde of herb is ſeparated and propagated in the earth for an increaſe, which ſeed muſt firſt putrifie in the earth, and then muſt be nouriſhed by a temperate moiſture, at laſt this ſeed by a convenient warm air is brought to a perfection, thus vegetables are increaſed, and in their kinde preſerved: but the firſt beginning of a vegetable ſeed is a ſpirituall eſſence or aſtral influence, whereby in the earth was gotten an imagination, and became impregnated with a matter, out of which by the help of the Elements it came to be ſomething: what form of ſeed the earth was deſirous of after the heavenly impreſſion, that form it received firſt, and brought it to a kinde, which bringeth a further increaſe by its palpable ſeed in the generation, hereby man may try his futher ſkill: but he is not able to create a new ſeed, as Nature doth by an influence from above onely he is able to increaſe a formed ſeed.

Of Metals and Minerals I inform you this, that there is one onely Almighty Being, which is from eternity, and abideth unto eternity, which is the Creator of heaven and earth, namely the eternal Deity in three diſtinct perſons, which three in the Deity are a perfect divine being: and though I confeſs and acknowledge theſe three perſons, yet I confeſs onely one God in one Being. This I do now ſpeak as a Type of the firſt ſeed of the three principles, that the firſt beginning, to beget Metallin ſeeds is wrought in the earth by a fideriall impreſſion, which quality preſſeth from above into the neather as in the belly of the earth, and worketh continually a heat therein, with the help of the Elements; for both muſt be together: the earthy affords an imagination, that the earth is fitted for conception and is impregnated, the Elements nouriſh and feed this fruit, bring it on by a continued hot quality unto perfection, the earthy ſubſtance affords a form thereunto; thus at the beginning the Metallin and Mineral ſeed is effected namely by an aſtral imagination, Elemental operation, and terreſtriall form: the aſtral is heavenly, the Elementary is ſpiritual, and the earthy is corporeall, theſe three make of their firſt Center the firſt eſſence of the Metallin ſeed, which Philoſophers have further ſearched into, that out of this eſſence there is become a form of a Metallin matter, p[••]pably joyned together of three, of a Metalline Sulphur [•]eavenly, a Metalline Mercury ſpritual, and a Metalline ſalt bodily, which three are found at the opening of Metals: for Metalls and Minerals muſt be broken and opened: Minerals are of the ſame ſanguinity, of the ſame quality and nature, as Metals are, onely they are not ſufficiently ripened unto coagulation, and may be ackowledged for unripe Metals, for the ſpirit in them is found as mighty Metalline as it is in the perfecteſt Metals. For Metals may be deſtroyed and eaſily reduced unto Minerals, and of Minerals are prepared Medicaments, which ripen and tranſmute Metals, which muſt be noted; and it is done, when Spirit, Soul and Body are ſeparated & purely reunited. The remaining terreſtrity being put off, then followeth a perfect birth, and the perfect ripening by heat performs her office, that Spirit, Soul and Body at the beginning in their firſt ſeed have been a heavenly water, which begot theſe three, out of which three is become a Metalline Sulphur, a Metalline Mercury, & a Metalline ſalt, theſe in their conjunction made a fix, viſible, palpable body; firſt began a Mineral one, then a Metalline by an aſtral imagination, digeſted and ripened by the Elements, and by an earthly ſubſtance are made formal and Material.

Now when theſe bodies of Minerals and Metals are reduced to their firſt beginning, then the heavenly ſeed doth appear and is ſpirituall, which ſpirituall muſt become an earthy one by the copulation of the Soul, which is the medium and midle bond of their Union to make a Medicine out of it, whereby is obtained health, long life, wiſdom, riches in this mortall life: this is the true ſperme of Philoſophers, long ſought after, but not known: whoſe light was deſired of many to be ſeen, and is even the firſt matter, which lieth open before the eyes of all the world, few men know, it is found viſibly in all places, Namely Mercury, Sulphur and Salt, & a Mineral water or Metalline liquor, as the Center, ſeparated from its form, and made by theſe three principles.

The Heavenly Phiſician, the eternal Creator and inexhauſtible fountain of Grace, & the F[•••••] [•]f all wiſdom, Father Son and Holy Ghoſt in one Dei[••] [〈◊〉] us to know really in a due gratefulneſs his wond[•] [〈◊〉] [•]orks, and make us coheyres of his everlaſting goods, [〈◊〉] we after a temporal revelation may in a true light ſeek for heavenly treaſures, and may poſſeſs them eternally with all the elects, where there is unſpeakable glory without end, which is attained unto by faith in our Saviour, by bringing forth good fruits, by loving of our neighbours, and helping the needy, which muſt be made evident with an unblameab[••] [〈◊〉] and due obedience to God. Amen.

FINIS.

Marginal notes

1. A Manual, what it is. ↩

2. The Marcaſite of iron is the Magnet or Load-ſtone.

   The Marcaſite of gold is the Lapis Lazuli.

   ↩