The Works of Geber

THE WORKS OF GEBER, The Moſt Famous ARABIAN PRINCE AND PHILOSOPHER

Faithfully Engliſhed By Richard Ruſſel a Lover of Chymiſtry.

— Ait iſte Libellus:

Magnus quidem non ſum, ſed ineſt mihi maxima Virtus.

Licenſed

Jan. 28 1677/8

Ro. L'Eſtrange.

LONDON, Printed for N. E. by Thomas James Mathematical Printer to the Kings moſt Excellent Majeſty, at the Printing-preſs in Mincing-lane; and are to be ſold by Robert Clavel at the Peacock in St Pauls Church-yard; and other Bookſellers. 1678.

THE TRANSLATOR TO THE READER.

THe Eminency and Worth of this Author need no Apology, his Works ſufficiently commend Him, who in his Writings, as the preſent Book clearly ſhews, uſed no Tautologies, Circumlocutions, or fruitleſs Ambages; but (like a good Maſter, intending to inform, not to perplex the Minds of his Diſciples) ſo ſuccinctly ſpeaks of all Things, as is rarely ſeen in any other Author. The End, why he Writ in his Time, was as himſelf declares, not only to Teach and Direct the Ingenious, but alſo to Detect and Enervate the fallacious Deſcriptions of Sophiſters, whom he pronounceth Curſed; ſaying, he ſhould be accurſed alſo, did he not diſcover their Frauds. For a like End was I incited, by a worthy Friend of mine, to this Tranſlation; that the WORKS of ſo Ancient and Venerable an Author (compriſing ſo many and various moſt needful Preparations) might now at length be publiſhed in the Engliſh Tongue; there being at this very Day ſo many Perſons publickly expoſing their Chymical Preparations (as they call them) which, if ſuch as they are preſented to be, or but in ſome competent meaſure correſpondent to the ſpecious Titles, with which they are inſignized, would rather commend their Authors, than need to be commended by them. For Chymiſtry is a true and real Art, and (when handled by prudent Artiſts) produceth true and real Effects.

And (which is more to be bewailed) Men that have ſcarcely ſeen the Firſt Entrances of Chymiſtry, or at moſt are but Tyro's in that moſt neceſſary (though much abuſed) Science; account themſelves ſufficiently accompliſhed, if Confident enough to boaſt after the Rate of Maſters; yea, more than good Maſters in that Art dare to do. For every conſcientious Man, exerciſed in Chymiſtry, ſees Cauſe enough to lay his Hand upon his Mouth; and yet neglects not to do what Good he can, without blowing a Trumpet. He that doth otherwiſe, may very well be ſuſpected: for (according to the uſual Proverb) Good Wine needs no Buſh; and every well performed Work commends the Worker thereof. It is recorded of the famous Painter Apelles, that he, having finiſhed any eminent Piece, did always expoſe it to publick View, before he durſt commend it (as a perfect Work) to him for whom he made the ſame. His End in this, as Hiſtories amply relate, was that he might, from the Mouths of others, hear himſelf praiſed, or diſpraiſed; and thence be able (prudently conjecturing by what he heard) to correct and amend his own Errours. If Phyſicians of our Time did, in imitation of Apelles, expoſe their Works for the ſame End, and would upon juſt and undeniable Cenſures, endeavour to amend their Errors; their ſo frequent Publications would be highly commendable; but 'tis otherwiſe. Yet Charity forbids me to impute this to Avarice, Fraud, or Ambition (Vices abhominable in all Men, eſpecially in Phyſicians) but rather to other leſs injurious Cauſes, as Ignorance, and want of certain Experience; in amending which, this Book may prove very ſerviceable: becauſe the Ignorant and Ʋnexpert may poſſibly be informed thereby, and thence learn true Experiences, by which (if Induſtrious) they will in Time be able to Correct their own Errours, as well as if they had uſed the Policy of Apelles. But of Covetous; Deceitful, and Ambitious Men, there is no ſuch Hope. Therefore omitting theſe, I doubt not, but that to every Man ſtudious of Verity, the preſent Work will be highly acceptable: becauſe herein he will find Inſtructions ſufficient to inform his Judgment, in preparing Medicines truly Chymical. For this Author (herein excelling others) hath clearly and candidly, though briefly, taught the Methods of purifying all Metals, Minerals, Salts, Allomes, &c. In which true and perfect Purification, the Vertue of each Subject (its Vice and Impurity being ſeparated) is rendred ten-fold more efficacious in Medicinal Ʋſe, than the ſame Subject (without ſuch Preparation preceding) could have been; as Experience daily proves. But if any Man object and ſay, This Author taught theſe Purifications only in Order to the great Stone of Philoſophers; to him I thus anſwer: All Philoſophers (Ancient and Modern) unanimouſly affirm, that Impurity tends to Corruption and Death; but Purity to Incorruption and Life. Therefore, if they, to amend imperfect Metals, viz. To heal the Diſeaſes of them, ſo ſtrictly enjoyned the Separation of Heterogeneals, and Purification of Things Homogenal; how much more▪ every faithful Phyſician ought to labour in purifying the Subjects of Medicine for the Humane Body (more precious than all Metals) of which theſe here ſpecified are no mean Part, I leave to the Judgment of all: And having premiſed theſe, crave the Readers Patience in peruſal of the following:

When I had perfected this Tranſlation of GEBER, my Purpoſe was to have concealed my Name; as I did in the Tranſlation of Royal and Practical Chymiſtry (which being my firſt Eſſay in that kind of Learning, I muſt confeſs were not ſo well performed, as I intend that Book ſhall be, if a Second Impreſſion thereof be made in my Time) of Beguinus his Tyrocinium, of Helvetius his Golden Calf, all made publick ſome years ſince; together with that of the Triumphant Chariot of Antimony, with Kirkringius his Notes thereon (though not the ſmall Piece of Syneſius to it annexed) lately publiſhed: but finding ſome too ready, as the ſaying is, to thruſt their Sickle into another Mans Harveſt, I am now at length enforced here to ſubjoyn my Name; being reſolved henceforth ſo to do, whenſoever any other of the Works (through the favour of God) by me ſtranſlated, ſhall come to be expoſed to publick View. For, beſides the large Volume of the Works of Raymund Lully, now ready for the Preſs (not to mention other Pieces on various Subjects, of which I have tranſlated many for private Perſons) I have Engliſhed the greateſt Part of the Works of Paracelſus; having compleated two of his three Volumes, and about half the Third: which I intend to finiſh (if GOD permit) as Time, Opportunity, or Encouragement ſhall be offered. Reader, I could here mention more; but conſidering that no Man hath any thing that he hath not received; and timely remembring that Poetical Admonition,

— Nullum decet eſſe ſuperbum;

Qui ſic inflatur, deſerit omne Bonum:

I here conclude, ſubſcribing my ſelf (as I always deſire to be) your real Friend

May 3d. 1678, From my Houſe at the Star in New-market in Wapping, near the Dock.

Richard Ruſſell.

The Contents.

I. Of the Inveſtigation or Search of Perfection.

• OF Things perfecting and corrupting Metallick Bodies Chap. 1. Page 3.
• Of the Stone of Philoſophers, &c. Chap. 2. Page 5.
• Of Things helping Preparation, and of their Cleanſing Chap. 3. Page 6.
• Of Preparing and Meliorating Bodies, in General Chap. 4. Page 9.
• Of the Preparation of Tin in Special Chap. 5. Page 21.
• Of the Preparation of Saturn or Lead Chap. 6. Page 14.
• Of the Preparation of Copper Chap. 7. Page 15.
• Of the Preparation of Iron Chap. 8. Page 16
• Of the Preparation of Gold Chap. 9 Page 17.
• Of the Preparation of Silver Chap. 10. Page 17.
• Of the Properties of the greater Elixir Chap. 11. Page 18.
• The Concluſion of this Book Page 20.

II. Of the Sum of Perfection, Or of the Perfect Magiſtery. The Firſt Book.

• The Preface, dividing this Book into Four Parts. Page 22.

• Part I.

  • Of the Diviſion of Impediments Chap. 1. Page 25.
  • Of the Impediments of this Work, from the part of the Body of the Artificer Chap. 2. Page 26.
  • Of Impediments from the Part of the Artiſts Soul, Chap. 3. Page 27.
  • Of External Impediments, hindering the Work of this Art Chap. 4. Page 29.
  • The Concluſion of the Firſt Part, containing the Qualifications of the Artificer Chap. 5. Page 30.

• Part 2.

  • OF the true Reaſons of Men ſimply denying Art Chap. 1. Page 34.
  • That it is not poſſible, &c. that Art can imitate Nature in all Differencies of Properties of Actions Chap. 2. Page 39.
  • A Confutation of the Reaſons of Men ſimply denying Art Chap. 3. Page 42.
  • Divers Opinions of thoſe who ſuppoſe the Art to be Chap. 4. Page 49.
  • Of the Reaſons of Men denying the Art ſuppoſed in Sulphur Chap. 5. Page 51.
  • Of the Reaſons of Men denying the Art ſuppoſed in Arſnick Chap. 6. Page 53.
  • Of the Reaſons of Men denying the Art ſuppoſed in Argentvive, &c. Chap. 7. Page 54.
  • Of the Reaſons of Men denying the Art ſuppoſed in Spirits to be fixed with Bodies, &c. Chap. 8. Page 55.
  • Of the Reaſons of Men denying the Art ſuppoſed in White Lead or Tin, &c. Chap. 9. Page 57.
  • Of the Reaſons of Men denying the Art ſuppoſed in Black Lead, or Saturn Chap. 10. Page 59.
  • Of the Reaſons of Men denying the Art ſuppoſed in the Mixtion of hard Bodies, &c. Chap. 11. Page 60.
  • Of the Reaſons of Men denying the Art ſuppoſed in the Mixtion of hard Bodies, &c. Chap. 12. Page 61.
  • Of the Reaſons of Men denying the Art ſuppoſed in Extraction of the Soul, Chap. 13. Page 62.
  • Of the Reaſons of Men denying the Art ſuppoſed in Glaſs and Gems, &c. Chap. 14. Page 62.
  • Of the Reaſons of Men denying the Art ſuppoſed in Middle Minerals, Vegetables, &c. Chap. 15. Page 63.

• Part. 3.

  • Of the Natural Principles of Metallick Bodies, according to the Opinions, &c. Chap. 1. Page 65.
  • Of the Natural Principles of Metals, according to the Opinion of Modern Philoſophers, &c. Chap. 2. Page 66.
  • The Diviſion of what are to be ſpoken of Sulphur, Arſnick, and Argentvive, &c. Chap. 3. Page 69.
  • Of Sulphur Chap. 4. Page 69.
  • Of Arſnick Chap. 5. Page 72.
  • Of Argentvive, or Mercury Chap. 6. Page 73.
  • Of the Effects of the Principles of Nature, which are Metallick Bodies Chap. 7. Page 74.
  • Of Sol, or Gold Chap. 8. Page 75.
  • Of Luna or Silver Chap. 9. Page 77.
  • Of Saturn, or Lead Chap. 10. Page 78.
  • Of Jupiter, or Tin Chap. 11. Page 79.
  • Of Venus, or Copper Chap. 12. Page 80.
  • Of Mars, or Iron Chap. 13. Page 81.

• Part. 4.

  • OF the Diviſion of Things to be ſpoken, with an Inſinuation of Perfection, &c. Chap. 1. Page 83.
  • Of Sublimation, why invented Chap. 2. 86.
  • What Sublimation is, and of the Degrees of Fire, &c. Chap. 3. Page 88.
  • Of the Feces of Metallick Bodies to be added to Spirits in their Sublimation, &c. Chap. 4. Page 91.
  • Of Covering the Fire in Sublimation, Chap. 5. Page 93.
  • Of Errors about the Quantity of Feces, and the Diſpoſition of the Furnace, &c. Chap. 6. Page 95.
  • Of what Matter and Form the Sublimatory is to be made Chap. 7. Page 99.
  • Of Sublimation of Mercury, or Argentv. Chap. 8. Page 102.
  • Of Sublimation of Marchaſite Chap. 9. Page 105.
  • Of the Veſſel for ſubliming Marchaſite Chap. 10. Page 106.
  • Of Sublimation of Magneſia and Tut. Chap. 11. Page 110.
  • Of Deſcenſion, and the way of purifying by Paſtils Chap. 12. Page 112.
  • Of Diſtillation, its Cauſes & Kinds, &c. Chap. 13. Page 114.
  • Of Calcination of Bodies and Spirits: its Cauſes, &c. Chap. 14. Page 120.
  • Of Solution and its Cauſe Chap. 15. Page 126.
  • Of Coagulation and its Cauſes; divers wayes of Coagulating Mercury. &c. Chap. 16. Page 129.
  • Of Fixation, and its Cauſe, &c. Chap. 17. Page 136.
  • Of Ceration, and its Cauſe Chap. 18. Page 139.

III. Of the Sum of Perfection, or of the Perfect Magiſtery. The Second Book.

• The Preface dividing the Book into Three Parts. Page 141.

• Part 1.

  • THat the Knowledge of Perfection of this Art depends on the Knowledge of the Nature of Spirits, and Bodies, &c. Chap. 1. Page 142.
  • Of the Nature of Sulphur and Arſnick Chap. 2. Page 143.
  • Of the Nature of Mercury, or Argentv. Chap. 3. Page 145.
  • Of the Nature of Marchaſite, &c. Chap. 4. Page 148.
  • Of the Nature of Sol, or Gold Chap. 5. Page 150.
  • Of the Nature of Luna, or Silver Chap. 6. Page 153.
  • Of the Nature of Mars or Iron. Alſo of the Effects of Sulphur and Mercury, &c. Chap. 7. Page 154.
  • Of the Nature of Venus or Copper Chap. 8. Page 157.
  • Of the Nature of Jupiter, or Tin Chap. 9. Page 162.
  • Of the Nature of Saturn, or Lead Chap. 10. Page 166.

• Part 2.

  • THat of every imperfect Body, and alſo of Agentvive, the Medicine muſt neceſſarily be two-fold, viz. one for the White, the other for the Red Chap. 1. Page 171.
  • That every of the Imperfect Bodies ought to have its peculiar Preparation Chap. 2. Page 174.
  • That the Defect of Imperfect Metals ought to be ſupplied by Medicine, but their Superfluity removed by Preparation Chap. 3. Page 176.
  • Of the Preparation of Saturn and Jupiter Chap. 4. Page 179.
  • Of the Preparation of Venus Chap. 5. Page 183.
  • Of the Preparation of Mars Chap. 6. Page 184.
  • Of the Mundification or Cleanſing of Argentvive Chap. 7. Page 186.
  • That five different Properties of Perfection neceſſarily conſtitute a moſt perfect Medicine, &c. Chap. 8. Page 187:
  • Of Preparations to be adhibited to the Medicine, that it may acquire the due Differencies of Properties Chap. 9. Page 189.
  • Of the differences of Medicines, &c. Chap. 10. Page 191.
  • Of the Medicine of the Firſt Order dealbating Venus. Chap. 11. Page 193.
  • Of Medicines dealbating Mars Chap. 12. Page 197.
  • Of Medicines citrinating (or colouring) Luna 13. Page 198.
  • Of the difference of the Properties of Medicines of the Second Order Chap. 14. Page 202.
  • Of a Medicine Lunar and Solar, for imperfect Bodies Chap. 15. Page 204.
  • Of the Medicine coagulating Argentv. Chap. 16. Page 207.
  • How Ingreſs is procured in Medicines by Artifice Chap. 17. Page 209.
  • Of Medicines of the Third Order in General Chap. 18. Page 210.
  • Of the Lunar Medicine of the Third Ord. Chap. 19. Page 212.
  • Of the Solar Medicine of the Third Ord. Chap. 20. Page 213

• Part 3.

  • THe Diviſion of what follows Chap. 1. Page 216.
  • Of Cineritium, why ſome Bodies abide in it, others not Chap. 2. Page 217.
  • Of the Tryal of the Cineritium (or Cupel) how it is to be compounded and uſed Chap. 3. Page 220.
  • Of Cement, why ſome Bodies ſuſtain it more, and others leſs Chap. 4. Page 222.
  • Of the Examen of Cement, how it is to be compounded and exerciſed Chap. 5. Page 224.
  • Of Ignition Chap. 6. Page 226.
  • Of Fuſion, or Melting. Chap. 7. Page 227.
  • Of the Expoſition of Bodies over the Vapours of Acute Things Chap. 8. Page 229.
  • Of the Extinction of Bodies Fire-hot Chap. 9. Page 231:
  • Of the Admixtion of Burning Sulphur Chap. 10. Page 232.
  • Of Calcination and Reduction Chap. 11. Page 234.
  • Of the eaſie Suſception of Argentvive Chap. 12. Page 235.
  • A Recapitulation of the whole Art Chap. 13. Page 235.
  • What Order the Author hath obſerved in treating of the aforeſaid Chap. 14. Page 237.

IV. Of the Invention of Verity, or Perfection.

• OF the ſix Properties of Things from which the Medicine is extracted Chap. 1. Page 239.
• Of the ſeven Properties of the Medicine Chap. 2. Page 241.
• Of the Diviſion of the Book into four Particles Chap. 3. Page 243.

• The Firſt Particle.

  • Of the Preparation of Middle Minerals Chap. 4: Page 245.

• The Second Particle.

  • Of the Mundification, or Cleanſing of Spirits Chap. 5. Page 249.
  • Of the Preparation of Sulphur Chap. 6. Page 250.
  • Of the Preparation of Arſnick Chap. 7. Page 251.
  • Of the Preparation of Argentvive Chap. 8. Page 252.
  • Of the Preparation of Marchaſite Chap. 9. Page 253.
  • Of the Preparation of Tutia, &c. Chap. 10. Page 253.

• The Third Particle.

  • How Bodies ought to be prepared Chap. 11. Page 254.
  • Of the Preparation of Saturn Chap. 12. Page 255.
  • Of the Preparation of Jupiter Chap. 13. Page 255.
  • Of the Preparation of Mars Chap. 14. Page 258.
  • Of the Preparation of Venus Chap. 15 Page 258.

• The Fourth Particle.

  • Of Medicines Chap. 16. Page 260.
  • Of White Medicines for Jupiter, &c. Chap 17. Page 261.
  • Of Solar Medicines for Jupiter, &c. Chap. 18. Page 263.
  • Of White Medicines for Venus, &c. Chap. 19. Page 264.
  • Of Red Medicines for Venus and Mars Chap. 20. Page 265.
  • Of a Medicine of the Third Order, for the White Chap. 21. Page 266.
  • Of a Solar Medicine of the Third Order Chap. 22. Page 268.
  • Of Solutive Waters, and Incerative Oyls Chap. 23. Page 269.

V. Of Furnaces, &c. with a Recapitulation of the Authors Experiments.

• The Preface, dividing the Book into Three Parts. Page 271.

• Part 1.

  • Of the Calcinatory Furnace Chap. 1. Page 273
  • Of the Sublimatory Furnace Chap. 2. Page 274.
  • Of the Diſtillatory Furnace Chap. 3. Page 275.
  • Of the Deſcenſory Chap. 4. Page 275.
  • Of the Melting Furnace Chap. 5. Page 276.
  • Of the Diſſolving Furnace Chap. 6. Page 276.
  • Of the Fixatory Furnace, or Athanor Chap. 7. Page 277.

• Part. 2.

  • OF the Preparation of Middle Mineral Spirits Chap. 8. Page 278.
  • Of the Calcination of Jupit. and Saturn Chap. 9. Page 279.
  • Of the Calcination of Venus and Mars Chap. 10. Page 280.
  • Of the Calcination of Middle Minerals Chap. 11. Page 280.
  • Of the Ablutions of Calxes, &c. Chap. 12. Page 281.
  • Of the Inceration of Calxes, &c. Chap. 13. Page 281.
  • Of the Reduction of Calxes Chap. 14. Page 282.
  • Of the Solutions of Bodies prepared, &c. Chap. 15. Page 283.

• Part 3.

  • Of the Way of Perfecting, according to the Third Order Chap. 16. Page 286.
  • Of the Regimen of Jupiter and Saturn Chap. 17: Page 288.
  • Of the Regimen of Venus and Saturn Chap. 18. Page 289.
  • Of the Regimen of Mars Chap. 19. Page 290.
  • Of the Regimen of Luna Chap. 20. Page 290.
  • Of the Regimen of Mercury Chap. 21. Page 291.
  • Of the Ferment of Luna for the White Chap. 22. Page 292.
  • Of the Ferment of Sol for the Red Chap. 23. Page 293.
  • Of Ferment of Ferment upon Mercury Chap. 24. Page 293.
  • A Recapitulation of the Experiments of the Author Chap. 25. Page 295.
  • Of Mercurial Sports Chap. 26. Page 299.
  • Of the Citrination or Colouring of Luna Chap. 27. Page 300.

GEBER, The moſt Experienced Arabian Prince and Philoſopher, OF THE Inveſtigation or Search OF PERFECTION.

The PREFACE of the AUTHOR, Shewing the Reaſons why he writ this BOOK.

WE with continued and frequent diligence of Labour, and great Study equivalent, not without moſt profound and ſerious thoughts, &c. expoſe publickly to your view, the Inveſtigation of this moſt noble Science, that the ſubſequent Volumns may the better and more clearly be underſtood by you; and that being underſtood, ſearched into, and found▪ they may the more eaſily and readily be brought to effect. And becauſe, to find out the Reaſon of Art, is another thing, than to attempt and prove the ſubtilties and intrigues of theſe things; until by operating, ſearching, and experiencing, the intended compleatment be attained: therefore, whatſoever we found out by things declared (I mean, of things perfecting Art) we have here written according to the intention of our Mind▪ Yet, let no man think that we compoſed this Inveſtigation before our Book, which is Intituled, The Sum of the Perfection of the Magiſtery; in which, whatſoever we ſaw and handled, we have compleatly deſcribed, according to the Order of Science; with Experience and certain Knowledg, which we acquired by our Scrutiny, exerciſed about the Effects of Natural and Mineral Things, and the diverſe Tranſmutations apparent in the Work. And we have explained our Science before compoſed, with this Comment of Inveſtigation, which we purpoſely writ for that end: therefore, by right, this muſt precede that, ſeeing by this Book I am to make Enquiry about the Thing Perfecting.

CHAP. I.

Of Things Perfecting and Corrupting Metallick Bodies.

THerefore, ſeeing this Science treats of the Imperfect Bodies of Minerals, and teacheth how to perfect them; we in the firſt place conſider two Things, viz. Imperfection and Perfection. About theſe two our Intention is occupied, and of them we purpoſe to treat. We compoſe this Book of Things perfecting and corrupting (according as we have found by experience) becauſe Contraries ſet near each other, are the more manifeſt.

The Thing which perfects in Minerals, is the ſubſtance of Argentvive and Sulphur proportionably commixt, by long and temperate decoction in the Bowels of clean, inſpiſſate, and fixed Earth (with conſervation of its Radical Humidity not corrupting) and brought to a ſolid fuſible Subſtance, with due Ignition, and rendred Malleable. By the Definition of this Nature perfecting, we may more eaſily come to the Knowledge of the Thing corrupting. And this is that which is to be underſtood in a contrary Senſe, viz. the pure ſubſtance of Sulphur and Argentvive, without due Proportion commixed, or not ſufficiently decocted in the Bowels of unclean, not rightly inſpiſſate nor fixed Earth, having a Combuſtible and Corrupting Humidity, and being of a rare and porous Subſtance; or having Fuſion without due Ignition, or no Fuſion, and not ſufficiently Malleable.

The firſt Definition I find intruded in theſe two Bodies, viz. in Sol and Luna, according to the Perfection of each: but the ſecond in theſe four, viz. Tin, Lead, Copper and Iron, according to the Imperfection of each. And becauſe theſe Imperfect Bodies are not reducible to Sanity and Perfection, unleſs the contrary be operated in them; that is, the Manifeſt be made Occult, and the Occult be made Manfeſt: which Operation, or Contrariation, is made by Preparation, therefore they muſt be prepared, Superfluities in them removed, and what is wanting ſupplied; and ſo the known Perfection inſerted in them. But Perfect Bodies need not this preparation; yet they need ſuch Preparation, as that, by which their Parts may be more Subtiliated, and they reduced from their Corporality to a fixed Spirituality. The intention of which is, of them to make a Spiritual fixed Body, that is, much more attenuated and ſubtiliated than it was before. Of all theſe Preparations (according to our Inveſtigation) we ſhall ſufficiently treat in their proper Place in this Book. What ſhall be (as is hereafter mentioned) ſufficiently prepared, will be fit to make the White or great Red Elixir with.

CHAP. II.

Of the Stone of Philoſophers, that it is one only, for the White, and for the Red, and from what Things it is extracted. And of the Poſſibility and Way of Perfection.

WE find Modern Artiſts to deſcribe to us one only Stone, both for the White and for the Red; which we grant to be true: for in every Elixir, that is prepared, White or Red, there is no other Thing than Argentvive and Sulphur, of which, one cannot act, nor be, without the other: Therefore it is called, by Philoſophers, one Stone, although it is extracted from many Bodies or Things. For it would be a fooliſh and vain thing to think to extract the ſame from a Thing, in which it is not, as ſome infatuated Men have conceited; for it never was the Intention of Philoſophers: yet they ſpeak many things by ſimilitude. And becauſe all Metallick Bodies are compounded of Argentvive and Sulphur, pure or impure, by accident, and not innate in their firſt Nature; therefore, by convenient Preparation, 'tis poſſible to take away ſuch Impurity. For the Expoliation of Accidents is not impoſſible: therefore, the end of Preparation is, to take away Superfluity, and ſupply the Deficiency in Perfect Bodies. But Preparation is diverſified according to the Diverſity of things indigent. For experience hath taught us diverſe ways of acting, viz. Calcination, Sublimation, Deſcenſion, Solution, Diſtillation, Coagulation, Fixation and Inceration: All which we ſufficiently declare in the Sum of the Perfection of the Magiſtery. For theſe are Works helpful in Preparation.

CHAP. III.

Of Things helping the Preparation, and of their Cleanſing.

THings helping Preparation, are theſe, viz. all kinds of Salt, Alloms, Atraments; alſo Glaſs, Borax, and what are of this Nature, and moſt ſharp Vinegar and Fire.

Cleanſing of Common Salt.

Common Salt is cleanſed thus: Firſt burn it, and caſt it combuſt into hot Water to be diſſolved; filter the Solution, which congeal by gentle Fire. Calcine the Congelate for a Day and Night in Moderate Fire, and keep it for uſe.

Cleanſing of Salt-Alkali.

Salt-Alkali is ſo cleanſed as Common-Salt, and it is Sagimen Vitri. Firſt it is ground, and then the whole diſſolved in Common Water hot: afterward Filtred, Congealed, and Calcined with moderate Fire.

Cleanſing of Salt-Gem.

Firſt it is ground, and then proceeded with as with Common-Salt.

Cleanſing of Salarmoniac.

Grind it firſt with the Preparation of Common-Salt cleanſed; then let it be ſublimed in an high Body and Head, until it all aſcend pure. Afterward diſſolved it upon a Porphiry in the open Air, if you would of it make Water; or keep the Sublimate ſufficiently pure.

Cleanſing of other Salts.

There are divers other kinds of Salt found, which are Prepared and Cleanſed, as above is ſaid.

Cleanſing of Alloms.

Firſt of Roch-Allom: Many Things may be Prepared by it, without its Cleanſing; yet it may be Cleanſed thus: Put it in an Alembeck, and extract its whole Humidity, which is of great avail in this Art. The Feces remaining in the Bottom, may be diſſolved upon a Porphiry-Stone, in ſome Humid Place, or in Water, which may be thence extracted, and ſo reſerved clean.

Cleanſing of Jamenous Allom.

Jamenous Allom is Prepared as the former: but in this Art it is of greater vertue. There are found yet many other Alloms, all which are Prepared and Cleanſed as above is ſaid.

Cleanſing of Atraments.

Firſt of Black Atrament, which is thus Cleanſed: Firſt, It muſt be diſſolved in clean Vinegar, afterward Diſtilled and Coagulated. Or let it be firſt Diſtilled by Alembeck, and all its Humidity extracted. The Feces Calcined in this Diſtillation, muſt be reſolved upon a Porphiry, or diſſolved in their own Water, and then Coagulated. Or that Water (if the Artiſt ſo wills) reſerved.

Cleanſing of Copperas.

Copperas or Vitriol, is Cleanſed as Black Atrament; yet Black Atrament hath greater Earthineſs than the Green. There are divers Atraments, and they are found of divers Colour, which are all Cleanſed as the aforeſaid.

Of Glaſs and Boraces.

Glaſs and Boraces, if made in a due manner, need not Preparation.

The Cleanſing of moſt ſharp Vinegars.

Vinegars, of what kind ſoever, acute and harſh, are Cleanſed by Subtiliation; and their Virtue, or Effect, is Meliorated by Diſtillation. Of the Cleanſing and Purifying of all the aforeſaid, we have now ſufficiently ſpoken: with which the Imperfect Bodies may be Prepared, Purified, Meliorated, and Subtiliated, by Fire always duly Mediating.

CHAP. IV.

Of Preparation and Melioration of Bodies in General.

THEY are Prepared and Depurated by the aforeſaid, according to the Intention of Fire in this manner: Theſe imperfect Bodies have ſuperfluous Humidities, and a combuſtible Sulphureity, with Blackneſs generated in them, and corrupting them: alſo they have in them an Unclean, Feculent, Combuſtible, and very Groſs Earthineſs, impeding Ingreſs and Fuſion. Theſe, and ſuch as theſe, are ſuperfluous in the aforeſaid Bodies, which are found to be in them, by our Experience, and certain and ingenious Inveſtigation. And becauſe theſe Superfluities have acceſs to theſe Bodies accidentally, and not radically; and the Supoliation of Accidentals is poſſible; therefore it behoves us, with Artificial Fire, by the aforeſaid cleanſed Things, to remove all Superfluous Accidents, the only Radical Subſtance of Argentvive and Sulphur remaining. -This is the intire Preparation, and perfect Depuration of Imperfect Bodies. The Melioration, Purification and Subtiliation of theſe (the pure Subſtance remaining) are effected many ways, according as the Elixir requires.

Therefore, the way of Preparing and Purifying in General, is this: Firſt, With Fire proportional, the whole Superfluous and Corrupt Humidity in their Eſſence muſt be elevated; alſo their ſubtil and burning Superfluity removed: and this by Calcination. Afterward, the whole Corrupt Subſtance of their Superfluous burning Humidity and Blackneſs remaining in their Calx, muſt be corroded with thoſe aforeſaid Cleanſed, Corroſive, Acute, or Harſh Things, until the Calx be White or Red (or coloured according to the Nature and Property of the Body) and clean and pure from all Superfluity or Corruption. Theſe Calxes muſt be Cleanſed with theſe Corroſives, by Grinding, Imbibing and Waſhing. Afterward, the whole unclean Earthineſs, and Combuſtible and Groſs Feculency muſt be taken away, and depoſited with the aforſaid Cleanſed or Pure Things, not having Metallick Fuſion; they being commixed, and well ground together with the aforeſaid Calx, depurated in the aforeſaid manner. For theſe, in the Fuſion or Reduction of the Calx, will retain with themſelves the aforeſaid Groſs and Unclean Earthineſs, the Body remaining pure, Cleanſed from all Corrupting Superfluity; and this by Deſcending.

The way of Meliorating and Subtiliating the pure Subſtance of theſe, is in General this: Firſt, this Purged and Reduced Body is again Calcined with Fire; and this by the Mundative helps aforeſaid: and then, with ſuch of theſe as are Solutive it muſt be diſſolved. For this Water is our Stone, and Argentvive of Argentvive, and Sulphur of Sulphur, abſtracted from the Spiritual Body, and Subtiliated or Attenuated; which may be Meliorated by comforting the Elemental Virtues in it, with other prepared Things, that are of the kind of its own Kind; and by augmenting the Colour, Fixion, Weight, Purity, Fuſion, and all other Things which appertain to a perfect Elixir. And this is the way (by us only found out) of the Preparation, Depuration, Subtiliation and Melioration of Mineral Bodies in General. Now we paſs to the Special or Particular Preparation of every Imperfect Body, with all its Methods, as alſo of the Perfect Mineral Bodies. And firſt of Jupiter.

CHAP. V.

Of the Preparation of Tin in Special.

JƲpiter is manifoldly prepared, yet beſt in this manner: Put it in an apt Veſſel in a Furnace of Calcination, and under it make Fire ſufficient for good Fuſion of the Body; ſtirring the Liquefied Body with an Iron Spatula full of holes, and drawing off the Scum that riſeth, and again ſtitring the Body, in that heat of Fire equally induring, until on the Superficies be gathered together a good quantity of that Scum or Powder; which take off, and again continue ſtirring until the whole Body be reduced to Powder. This Powder ſift, and replace it again in the Furnace, adding Fire, not exceeding the Fire of its Fuſion, and ſtir it often. Keep it in this Fire of Calcination for a day Natural, or thereabouts, until its whole Accidental and Superfluous Humidity be aboliſhed, with its Combuſtible and Corrupting Sulphur. For the Fire elevates and conſumes every Fugitive and inflamable Subſtance: then often well waſh it with the aforeſaid, viz. with Common-Salt Cleanſed, and Allom, and with Purified and Harſh Vinegar, and dry it at the Sun, or in the Air; and then again Grind, and Waſh, and Dry: and do this time after time, until by the acuity of the Salts, Alloms, and Vinegar, its whole Humidity, Blackneſs, and Ʋncleanneſs, ſhall be conſumed, corroded and done away. This being done, add Glaſs beaten to Powder, to theſe aforeſaid, and when you ſhall have impaſted the whole together, then with ſufficient Fire make it flow in a Crucible with an hole in its bottom, ſet within another, and the pure and clean Body will deſcend, the whole earthly and feculent Subſtance remaining above with the Glaſs, and Salts, or Alloms; for in that Body deſcended and reduced, is an equal and perfect Proportion of clean Argentvive and white Sulphur not burning; becauſe Fire and the Corroſives have divided the whole Humidity, and fugitive, and inflamable, and corrupting Subſtance and Blackneſs; and through that Diſcenſory, by the paſting with Salts, Alloms, and Glaſs, the whole feculent earthy Subſtance is ſeparated, the pure Subſtance with its Proportion remaining.

Afterward calcine this pure reduced Body again, with pure and clean Salarmoniac, until it be in weight equal, or thereabout. When it ſhall be well and perfectly calcined, then grind the whole well and long upon a Perphiry-ſtone, and place it in the open Air, in a cold and humid place; or in Glaſs Veſſels, in a Furnace of Solution, or in Horſe-dung, until the whole be diſſolved; augmenting the Salt if need be. This Water we ought to honour, for it is what we ſeek for the White. Theſe may ſuffice to be ſpoken of the Preparation of Tin.

CHAP. VI.

Of the Preparation of Saturn.

LEad is thus prepared, Set it in a like Furnace of Calcination, ſtirring it, while in flux, as you did the Tin, until it be converted to a moſt fine Powder: Sift this, and again ſet it in the Fire of its Calcination, as aforeſaid, until its Fugitive and Inflamable Subſtance be aboliſhed. Afterwards take out your red Calx, which imbibe and grind often, with Common Salt cleanſed, and Atrament purified, and very harſh Vinegar. For the Red you muſt uſe theſe, as you did for the White, with Common Salt, Jamenous Allom, and Vinegar: Alſo as of Tin is ſaid, your Matter muſt be often imbibed, dryed, and ground, until by benefit of the aforeſaid, this ſaid uncleanneſs be totally removed: then mix Glaſs with theſe aforeſaid, and as you did with the Tin cauſe the pure Body to deſcend, that deſcending it may be reduced. Again, Calcine it with pure Salarmoniac (as of Jupiter is ſaid) and moſt ſubtily grind and diſſolve it by the way aforeſaid. For that is the Water of Argentvive and Sulphur proportionally made, which we uſe in Compoſition of the Red Elixir. Theſe of the the Preparation of Saturn, may ſuffice.

CHAP. VII.

Of the Preparation of Venus.

VEnus or Copper, is this way prepared: Make a Lay of Common Salt well cleanſed in a Crucible, and upon that put a piece of Copper Plate, and over that a Lay of Salt, and then more of the Plate; and ſo continually, until the Veſſel be full: which being covered and firmly luted, place in a Furnace of Calcination, for one day Natural; then take it out and ſeparate and ſcrape off what ſhall be Calcined; and again Calcine the Plates with New Salt, as before, repeating the Calcination ſo often, as until all the Plates ſhall be conſumed, and corroded by the benefit of the Salt and Fire: for the Salt corrodes the ſuperfluous Humidity and Combuſtible Sulphurcity, and the Fire elevates the Fugitive and Inflamable Subſtance with due Proportion. Grind this calcined matter to a moſt ſubtile Powder, and waſh it with Vinegar; until the Water come from is free from Blackneſs. Another time imbibe it with new Salt and Vinegar, and Grind, and after Contrition (or Grinding) put it in a Calcining Furnace, in an open Veſſel, and let it ſtand there three days Natural; then take it out and Grind it very well and ſubtily, and well and long waſh it with Vinegar, until it ſhall be cleanſed and purged from all Ʋncleanneſs. This being done, dry it well in the Sun, then add to it half its weight of Salarmoniac, well and long Grinding, until it be an impulpable Subſtance. Then expoſe it to the open Air, or ſet it in Horſe-dung to be diſſolved, until whatſoever is there ſubtile ſhall be diſſolved; anew adding clean Salarmoniac, if need ſhall be, until the whole be made Water. Honour this Water, which we name the Water of fixed Sulphur, with which the Elixir is tinged to Infinity. Theſe of the Preparation of Venus.

CHAP. VIII.

Of the Preparation of Mars.

MArs or Iron, is beſt prepared thus: Let it be Calcined as Venus, with Common Salt cleanſed, and let it be waſhed with pure Vinegar; being waſhed, dry it in the Sun, and when dryed, grind and imbibe it with new Salt and Vinegar, and then put it in the ſame Furnace, as of Venus is ſaid, for three days. Honour this Solution, viz. The Water of fixed Sulphur, wonderfully augmenting the Colour of the Elixir. Theſe may ſuffice to be ſpoken of the Preparation of Imperfect Bodies.

CHAP. IX.

Of the Preparation of Sol.

PErfect Bodies need not Preparation, in relation to their further Perfection, being perfect; but that they may be more ſubtiliated, and attenuated, we adhibit this Preparation to them:

℞ Sol or Gold beaten into thin Plates, and with them and Common Salt very well prepared, make Lay upon Lay in a Veſſel of Calcination, which ſet into a Furnace and Calcine well for three days, until the whole be ſubtily Calcined; then take it out, grind it well, waſh it with Vinegar, and dry it in the Sun, afterward grind it well with half its weight of cleanſed Salarmoniac; then ſet it to be diſſolved, until the whole (by the benefit of Common Salt and Armoniac) be diſſolved into a moſt clear Water. This is the precious Ferment for the Red Elixir, and the true Body made Spiritual.

CHAP. X.

Of the Preparation of Luna.

LƲna or Silver, is ſubtiliated and attenuated and reduced to Spirituality, in manner as above is ſaid of Sol. Therefore in all and every part of the Work, do the ſame in its Subtiliation, as you did with the Gold. And this Water of Luna diſſolved, is the Ferment for the White Elixir, made Spiritual.

CHAP. XI.

Of the Properties of the Greater Elixir.

WE have now ſufficiently determinated the Preparation and Subtiliation of perfect Bodies, that every Diſcreet Operator may be enabled to attain his Intention. Therefore let him attend to the Properties and Ways of Action of the Compoſition of the Greater Elixir: For we endeavour to make one Subſtance, yet compounded and compoſed of many; ſo permanently fixed, that being put upon the Fire, the Fire cannot injure; and that it may be mixed with Metals in Flux, and flow with them, and enter with that which in them is of an ingreſſible Subſtance, and be permixed with that, which in them is of a permixable Subſtance; and be conſolidated with that, which in them is of a conſolidate Subſtance; and be fixed with that, which in them is of a fixable Subſtance; and not be burned by thoſe Things which burn not Gold and Silver; and take away Conſolidations and Weights with due Ignition.

Yet you muſt not think all this can be effected by Preparation at once, in a very ſhort Time, as a few Dayes and Hours; but in reſpect of other Modern Phyſicians, and alſo in reſpect of the Operation of Nature, the Verity of the Work is ſooner terminated this way. Whence the Philoſopher ſaith, It is a Medicine requiring a long ſpace of time. Wherefore I tell you, you muſt patiently ſuſtain Labour, becauſe the work will be long; and indeed Feſtination is from the Devils part: Therefore let him that hath not Patience deſiſt from the Work, for credulity will hinder him making overmuch haſte. And every Natural Action hath its determinate Meaſure and Time, in which it is terminated, viz. in a greater or leſſer ſpace. For this Work Three Things are neceſſary, namely, Patience, Length of Time, and Aptneſs of Inſtruments; of which we ſpeak to the Artificer, in the Sum of the Perfection of our Magiſtery, in divers Chapters, wherein he may find them, if he be ſufficiently skilled in our Works. In which, by manifeſt and open Proof we conclude, that our Stone is no other than a Foetent (or fruitful) Spirit and Living Water, which we have named Dry Water, by Natural Proportion cleanſed, and united with ſuch Ʋnion, that they can never be abſent each from other. To which two muſt alſo be added a third, for abbreviating the Work; that is a perfect Body attenuated.

The Epilogue and Concluſion of the Work.

THerefore from the above premiſed, the Things are manifeſt in which the Verity of the Work is nigh; and we have conſidered Things perfecting this Work, by our true Inveſtigation, with certain Experience, whereby we are aſſured, That all the Words are true, which are now (by us only) written in our Volumns, according as we found by Experiment and Reaſon, related in the ſame: But thoſe Things which by our Experience we have operated, ſeen with our Eyes, and handled with our Hands, We have writ in the Sum of the Perfection of Our Magiſtery. Therefore, let the Sapient Artificer ſtudiouſly peruſe Our Books, collecting Our diſperſed Intention, which We have deſcribed in divers places, that We might not expoſe it to Malignant and Ignorant Men; and let him prove his Collection even unto Knowledge, Studying and Experimenting with the Inſtance of Ingenious Labour, till he come to an intire Underſtanding of the whole. Let the Artificer exerciſe himſelf, and find out this now (in great Love) propoſed Way of Inveſtigation, by Our Conſideration; and alſo acquire a plenary Knowledge of the Verity of the perfecting and corrupting Matter and Form. For We in Our Inveſtigation, have conſidered the Matter and Form of Perfect Bodies (from the Radix of their Commixtion, unto their Compleatment) to be pure without any ſupervenient Corruption. We have alſo, in a contrary Senſe, conſidered the Subſtance of Bodies imperfect and perfect, to be one every where, Viz. Argentvive and Sulphur; which are pure and clean before their Commixtion: And by this Conſideration, through Our own Exerciſe, We found the Corruption of imperfect Bodies, accidentally to have acceſs; and that this gave a new and corrupted Form: For when We have ſeen imperfect Bodies by Our Experience and Ingenuity, prepared and cleanſed from all ſuperfluous Corruption and Fugitive Ʋncleanneſs, deliberate and terreſtrial, We found them of greater Clearneſs and Brightneſs, or Purity, than Bodies naturally perfect, not prepared. By which Conſideration We came to the perfect and compleat end of this Science, which We have perfectly deſcribed in Our Books. Therefore be Studious in them, and you will find Our whole Science, which We have abbreviated out of the Books of the Ancients.

The end of this Inveſtigation.

GEBER, The Famous Arabian Prince and Philoſopher, Of the Sum of PERFECTION, OR, OF THE PERFECT MAGISTERY: Two Books.

The Firſt Book.

The PREFACE, Touching the Way of Deſcribing this ART, and of thoſe that are fit DISCIPLES.

OUr whole Science of Chymiſtry, which, with a divers Compilation, out of the Books of the Ancients, We have abbreviated in our Volumes; We here reduce into one Sum. And what in other Books written by Us is diminiſhed, that We have ſufficiently made up, in the Writing of this Our Book, and ſupplied the Defect of them very briefly. And what was abſconded by Us in one Part, that We have made manifeſt in the ſame Part, in this our Volume; that the Compleatment of ſo Excellent and Noble a Part of Philoſophy, may be apparent to the Wiſe.

Therefore, Moſt dear Son, know, that in this Work the whole Operation of Our Art is ſufficiently contained in General Heads, with an Ʋniverſal Diſcourſe, without any Diminution. And he, who ſhall operate according to this Book, he ſhall (through God) with Joy find, that he is come to the true end of this Art. But you muſt alſo know, that he, who in himſelf knows not Natural Principles, is very remote from our Art; becauſe he hath not a true Root, whereon to found his intention. And he, who knows his Natural Principles, and all Cauſes of Minerals, yet hath not acquired the true End and Proficiency of this Art; hath a more eaſie Acceſs to the Principles of this Art, than he who is ignorant in his Intention of the Method of his Work, and is but a little remote from the Entrance of Art. But he who knows the Principles of all Things, and the Cauſes of Minerals, and the Way of Generation; which conſiſts, according to the Intention of Nature, is indeed but a very little ſhort of the Compleatment of the Work; without which our Science cannot be perfect: becauſe Art cannot imitate Nature in all Works, but imitates her as exactly as it can. Therefore moſt dear Son, We diſcover a Secret to you, Viz. That Artificers erre in this, namely, That they deſire to imitate Nature in all Differences of the Properties of Action. Wherefore labour ſtudiouſly in Our Volumes, and endeavour to ponder them very often in your Mind, that you may acquire the true Intention of Our Words; becauſe in them you may find whereon to eſtabliſh your own Mind, and by them know how to eſcape Errors, and in what you may be able to imitate Nature in the Artifice of your Work.

The Diviſion of this Firſt Book into Four Parts.

FIrſt, We intend briefly to ſet down all Impediments by which the Artificer is impeded in his Work, that he cannot reach to the true End: Alſo, in this Part we will ſpeak of the Conditions of the Operator of this Art.

Secondly, We will diſpute againſt the Ignorant and Sophiſters, who by reaſon of their own Ignorance and Ʋnskilfulneſs in their Search after the Magiſtery, and the Proficiency of this Art, damn the Art it ſelf, and contend that it hath no being, or is not. But in this part We ſet down all their Reaſons, and afterward moſt evidently confute the ſame; ſo that it will be ſufficiently evident to Wiſe Men, that their Sophiſmes are void of Truth.

Thirdly, We intend to Diſcourſe of Natural Principles, that are according to the Intention of Nature; and in that Part We treat of the Way of Generation and Mixtion of them each with other, in the Work of Nature, and of their Effects, according to the Opinion of Ancient Philoſophers.

Fourthly, We will demonſtrate the Principles, which are according to the Intention of this Our Work; in which We are able to imitate Nature, and the way of mixing and altering, congruous to Nature, with its Cauſes, to be reduced to the Intent of Our Work.

The Firſt Part of this Firſt Book, treating of the Impediments which hinder the Artiſts from attaining to the true End of this Art.

CHAP. I.

The Diviſion of Impediments.

THe Impediments incident to this Work, are generally two, viz. Natural Impotency, and Defect of Neceſſary Expence, or Occupations and Labours. Yet We ſay, Natural Impotency is Manifold; viz. Partly from the Organs of the Artiſt, and partly from his Soul. From the Organ of the Artificer, it is alſo manifold; for either the Organ is weak, or wholly corrupted. And it is manifold from the Impotencies of the Soul; either becauſe the Soul is perverted in the Organ (having nothing of Rectitude, or Reaſon in it ſelf) as the Soul of a Mad infatuate Man; or becauſe it is Fantaſtical, unduly ſuſceptive of the Contrary of Forms, and ſuddenly extenſive from one Thing knowable, to its oppoſit, and from one Will to its oppoſit likewiſe.

CHAP. II.

Of the Impediments of this Work, from the Part of the Body of the Artificer.

WE have already generally determined the Impediments of this Work; but now in this Chapter, We ſpeak in a more ſpecial manner, and more plainly declare to you all thoſe Impediments moſt fully, yet with brevity. Therefore We ſay, if any Man have not his Organs compleat, he cannot by himſelf come to the Compleatment of this Work; no more than if he were Blind or wanted his Limbs; becauſe he is not helped by the Members: by meditation of which, as miniſtring to Nature, this Art is perfected. And if the Body of the Artificer be weak, ſickly, and feaveriſh; or like the Bodies of Leprous perſons, whoſe Members fail; or of Men at the laſt point of Life, or worn out with decrepit old Age; he cannot attain to the Compleatment of the Art. Therefore the Artiſt is hindered in his Intention, by theſe Natural Impotencies of the Body.

CHAP. III.

Of the Impediments from the part of the Artiſts Soul.

WE premiſed one Chapter, in which we abſolutely and manifeſtly declared the Impediments depending on the part of the Body of the Artificer: It now remains, that we briefly declare the Impediments from the Part of his Soul, which moſtly hinder the compleatment of this Work. Therefore, we ſay, he that hath not a Natural Ingenuity, and Soul, ſearching and ſubtily ſcrutinizing Natural Principles, the Fundamentals of Nature, and Artifices which can follow Nature, in the properties of her Action, cannot find the true Radix of this moſt precious Science. As there are many who have a ſtiff Neck, void of Ingenuity in every perſcrutation; and who can ſcarcely underſtand Common Speech, and likewiſe with difficulty learn Works vulgarly Common. Beſides theſe, we alſo find many who have a Soul eaſily opinionating every Phantaſie; but what they believe they have found true, is all Phantaſtick, deviating from Reaſon, full of Error, and remote from Natural Principles: Becauſe their Brain, repleat with many Fumoſities, cannot receive the true Intention of Natural Things. There are alſo, beſides theſe, others who have a Soul movable, from Opinion to Opinions, and from Will to Wills; as thoſe, who ſuddenly believe a Thing, and will the ſame, without any Ground at all of Reaſon; but a little after that, another Thing: and do likewiſe believe another, and will another. And theſe are ſo changeable, that they can ſcarcely accompliſh the leaſt of that they intend; but rather leave it defective. There are likewiſe Others, who cannot ſee any Truth in Natural Things, no more than Beaſts; as if they were Witleſs, Mad-men and Children. There are Others alſo who contemn the Science, and think it not to be; whom in like manner this Science contemns, and repels them from the End of this moſt precious Work. And there are Some, who are Slaves, loving Money, who do affirm this to be an admirable Science, but are are afraid to interpoſit the Neceſſary Charges. Therefore, although they approve it, and according to Reaſon ſeek the ſame, yet to the Experience of the Work they attain not through Covetouſneſs of Money: Therefore, this Our Science comes not to them. For how can he who is ignorant, or negligent in the ſearch of Science, attain eaſily to it?

CHAP. IV.

Of External Impediments hindring the Work of this Art.

WE have to two Heads reduced all Impediments retarding the End of this Art, which all are from Radical Principles according to the Nature of the Artificer of this moſt precious Buſineſs. Therefore, it concerns Us now at length to declare the Impediments externally ſupervenient, and happening by Chances and Caſualties, by which, this moſt Glorious Work is hindered. We ſee ſome ſubtil and ingenious Men, skilled in the Works of Nature, and, as far as is poſſible, followers of her, in her Principles and Works; in whom alſo is an Inveſtigation not Phantaſtick, in all Things beneath the Lunar Circle, that are regulated by the Motions and Actions of Nature: Yet theſe, oppreſſed with extream Poverty, and lying under a Diſpenſation of Indigency, are compelled to poſtpone or neglect this Excellent Magiſtery. There are many Others beſides the aboveſaid Curious Men, detained by the various Cares and Solicitudes of this World, occupying themſelves wholly in Secular Buſineſs; from whom this our precious Science withdraws her ſelf.

Now, from the premiſed Heads, 'tis ſufficiently manifeſt what are the Impediments hindring Men from this Art.

CHAP. V.

The Concluſion of this Firſt Part, containing the Qualifications of the Artificer.

THerefore, from what is aboveſaid, we conclude, that the Artificer of this Work ought to be well skilled, and perfect in the Sciences of Natural Philoſophy: becauſe, how much Money ſoever he hath, and although he be endowed with a naturally profound Wit and Deſire in this Artifice, yet he cannot attain his End, unleſs he hath by Learning acquired Natural Philoſophy. For the defect of that which is not acquired by Natural Ingenuity, muſt be ſupplied by Learning. Therefore the Artificer muſt be helped by moſt deep Search, and Natural Induſtry. For, by reaſon of his Learning only, how much ſoever of Science he hath acquired, unleſs he be alſo helped by Natural Induſtry, he will not be invited to ſo precious a Banquet. By his Induſtry, he muſt amend his Errour in the point, to which he will be ignorant how to apply a Remedy, if he rely only upon his Learning: ſo likewiſe, he may remedy his Errour in the Point, from his Knowledg acquired by Natural Learning, which by Induſtry only he cannot avoid; becauſe Art is helped by Ingenuity, and Ingenuity by Art likewiſe.

Alſo it is neceſſary for him to be of a conſtant Will in his Work, that he may not preſume to attempt this now, and that another time: becauſe our Art conſiſts not, nor is perfected in a Multitude of Things. For there is one Stone, one Medicine, in which the Magiſtery conſiſts, to which we add not any extraneous Thing, nor remove we ought; except that in Preparation we take away Superfluities.

Alſo he muſt be diligent in the Work, perſiſting to the final Conſummation thereof, that he leave not off obruptly; becauſe he can acquire neither Knowledge nor Profit from a diminiſhed Work; but ſhall rather reap Deſperation and Dammage. It is alſo expedient he ſhould know the Principles and Principal Radixes of this Art, which are eſſential to the Work: becauſe, he that is ignorant of the Beginnings, cannot find the End. And we ſhew you all thoſe Principles in a Diſcourſe compleat, and ſufficiently clear and manifeſt to wiſe Men, according to the exigency of this our Art. It is likewiſe expedient, the Artiſt ſhould be temperate and ſlow to Anger, leaſt he ſuddenly (through the force of Rage) ſpoil and deſtroy his Works begun.

Likewiſe alſo, he muſt keep his Money, and not preſumptuouſly diſtribute it vainly, leaſt he happen not to find the Art, and be left in Miſcry, and in the Deſperation of Poverty; or at leaſt, when (by his Diligent Endeavour) he is come near to the End of his Magiſtery, his Money being all ſpent, he be forced to leave the End (miſerable Man as he is) uncompleated. For they, who in the Beginning prodigally waſte their whole Treaſure, when they draw nigh to the End, have not wherewith to Labour. Whence ſuch Men are twofoldly overwhelmed with Grief; viz. becauſe they ſpent their Money in Things unprofitable, and becauſe they loſe the moſt noble Science which they were in queſt of. For you need not to conſume your Goods, ſeeing you may come to the compleatment of the Magiſtery for a ſmall price▪ if you be not ignorant of the Principles of Art, and rightly underſtand what we have declared to you. Therefore, if you waſte your Money, not minding our Admonitions, plain and manifeſt, written in this Little Book; inveigh not againſt Us; but impute what you ſuffer to your own Ignorance and Preſumption. For this Science agrees not well with a Man poor and indigent, but is rather inimical and adverſe to him.

Nor ſhould the Artiſt endeavour to find the Sophiſtical end of his Work, but be intent on the true Compleatment only; becauſe our Art is reſerved in the Divine Will of God, and is given to, or with-held from, whom he will; who is Glorious, Sublime, and full of all Juſtice and Goodneſs. And perhaps, for the puniſhment of your Sophiſtical Work, he denies you the Art, and lamentably thruſts you into the By-Path of Error, and from your Error into perpetual Infelicity and Miſery: becauſe he is moſt miſerable and unhappy, to whom (after the End of his Work and Labour) GOD denies the ſight of Truth. For ſuch a Man is conſtituted in perpetual Labour, beſet with all Misfortune and Infelicity, loſeth the Conſolation, Joy, and Delight of his whole Time, and conſumes his Life in Grief without Profit. Likewiſe, the Artiſt, when he ſhall be in his Work, ſhould ſtudy to impreſs in his Mind, all Signs that appear in every Decoction, and to ſearch out their Cauſes.

Theſe are the Things neceſſary for an Artificer fit for our Art; but if any of theſe We have declared be wanting in him, he ſhould not approach to our Art.

The Second Part of this Firſt Book: in which are related the Reaſons of Men denying this Art, which are afterward confuted.

A General Diviſion of the Following.

HAving already in one Sum of this little Book compriſed all the Impediments of this Work, and given you a Doctrine ſufficient for the Adherency of this Art: it is now expedient, according to the Intention of our Purpoſe, to diſpute againſt Sophiſters and Ignorant Men. Firſt▪ ſetting down their Reaſons, according as we promiſed We would do from the Beginning. Laſtly, We enervate all thoſe Reaſons ſo, as it ſhall be evident to the Wiſe, that they contain Nothing of Truth in them.

CHAP. I.

The true Reaſons of Men ſimply denying this Art.

THere are divers who deny and annihilate this Art. Some ſimply, others only ſuppoſing it to be. For Some, ſimply affirming this Art not to be, Sophiſtically ſtrengthen their Argument, thus: They ſay, there are diſtinct Species and Diverſities of Things, becauſe the Proportions, in Commixtion of Elements each with other, are divers and diſtinct. For an Aſs▪ is divers in Species from a Man; becauſe, in his Compoſition, he had a more divers Proportion of Elements. So alſo it is in all other Diverſities of Things, therefore in Minerals. Wherefore the Proportion of Things Mixable (by which is acquired the Form and Perfection of the Thing) being unknown, how can we know both the Mixture, and to form what is to be mixed? But we are ignorant of the true Proportion of the Elements of the Sol and Luna, therefore we muſt be ignorant how to form them.

In like manner, they alſo otherwiſe argue, condemning our Magiſtery. For ſay they, although you ſhould know the Proportion of Elements, yet the way of mixing them together you know not; becauſe Nature Procreates theſe in Caverns, in Mines, and in hidden Places; therefore, ſeeing you know not the Way (or Method) of their Mixtion, you are alſo ignorant how to make them. In like fort, again they argue: Although you ſhould duly know this, yet in the Action of Mixtion you underſtand not how to equalize the Agent Heat, by mediation of which the Thing is ſo perfected. For Nature hath a certain Quantity of Heat, by which ſhe brings Metals to a Being, the meaſure of which you know not. Even ſo alſo you know not the Differences of the Agent Cauſes of Nature; without which, Nature cannot truly perfect her Intent. Therefore, theſe being unknown, the whole Method of performing this Art, will be unknown likewiſe.

Further, they bring you Reaſon and Experience: This Science (ſay they) hath been ſo long ſought by wiſe Men, that if it were poſſible to attain to it any way, they would a thouſand times, before now, have been Maſters of it. Likewiſe alſo, ſeeing Philoſophers ſeem to treat of it in their Volumes, yet in them we find no Truth: 'tis manifeſt and probable enough by this, that this Science is not. So likewiſe, many Princes and Kings of this World, having infinite Treaſure, and abundance of Philoſophers, have deſired to attain to this Science, yet could never reach to the Fruit of this moſt precious Art. This is a ſufficient Argument, that the Art is frivolous in its probation. Likewiſe, even in weak Mixtions of Species, we cannot follow Nature. For we know not how to form an Aſs, and other like Things, the Mixtions of which are weak, and manifeſt (as it were) to the Senſes. Wherefore alſo, We muſt needs be much more ignorant, how to form the Mixtion of Metals, which is moſt ſtrong; and which is alſo wholly hid from our Senſes and Experiences. The Sign of which is the difficulty of Reſolutions of Elements from them.

So alſo, We ſee no Oxe transformed into a Goat, nor any one Species tranſmuted into another, or by any other Artifice ſo reduced. Therefore, ſeeing Metals differ in themſelves, can you transform one into another, according to its Species, or of ſuch a Species make ſuch a Species? This ſeems to us ſufficiently abſurd, and remote from the Verity of Natural Principles. For, Nature perfects Metals in a thouſand Years; but how can you, in your Artifice of Tranſmutation, live a thouſand years, ſeeing you are ſcarely able to extend your Life to an Hundred? Yet, if to this, it be thus anſwered, What Nature cannot perfect in a very long ſpace of time, that we compleat in a ſhort ſpace by our Artifice: For Art can in many Things ſupply the Defect of Nature. We ſay again, That this alſo is impoſſible, eſpecially in Metals; ſeeing they are moſt ſubtil Fumes which need temperate Decoction, that the proper Humidity in them may, according to Equality, be Inſpiſſate (or Thickned) and not fly from them, and leave thoſe Bodies deprived of all Humidity, by which they receive Contuſion, or Compreſſion and Extenſion. Therefore, if you will by your Artifice abbreviate the Time of Decoction of Nature, in Minerals and Metallick Bodies, you muſt needs do this by Exceſs of Heat; which which will not adequate, but rather diſſipate and deſtroy the Humidity, diſſolving it from their Bodies. For Temperate Heat only is Spiſſative of Humidity, and Perfective of Mixtion, not Heat exceeding.

So likewiſe, the Being and Perfection are given from the Stars, as the firſt Perficients, moving the Nature of Generation and Corruption, to the Being and not Being of Species. But this is done ſuddenly, and in an inſtant, when one or more Stars, by their Motions, come to a determinate Site in the Firmament, by which the Being of Perfection is given: for every One thing acquires to it ſelf a Being, in a moment, from a certain Site of the Stars. And there is not only one Site, but many, and divers each from other, as the Effects of them are divers. And We cannot know the Diverſity and Diſtinction of theſe each from other; becauſe to Us they are unknown and infinite. How then will you ſupply the Defect in your Work, being ignorant of the Diverſity of Sites of the Stars, according to the Motion of them? And admit you did know the certain Site of one or more Stars, by which Perfection is given to Metals, yet you could not perfect your Work according to your Intent. For there is no Preparation of any Work, for receiving Form by Artifice, in an inſtant, but ſucceſſive. Therefore Form cannot be given to the Work, the Preparation being not made in an Inſtant.

Likewiſe alſo, in Things Natural, this is the Order, viz. that it is eaſier to deſtroy them than make them. But we can ſcarcely deſtroy Gold, how then can We preſume to Fabricate the ſame?

Therefore, by reaſon of theſe Sophiſtical Reaſons, and others leſs apparent than theſe, they conceit they can deſtroy this Divine Art. All theſe are the Perſwaſions of Sophiſters, ſimply denying the Art to be. But the Reaſons of thoſe who deny Art from Suppoſition, I will ſet down in the Subſequent, together with the Refutations of them. Yet hence We paſs to the Refutation of the Reaſons here Poſited: firſt premiſing our true Intention, in order to the Compleatment of the Work.

CHAP. II.

That it is not poſſible, nor ought to be ſuppoſed, that Art can imitate Nature in all Differences of Properties of Action. And certain Inſtructions touching the Principles of Metals.

THerefore We ſay, the Principles, about which Nature imploys her Actions, are of a moſt hard and moſt ſtrong Compoſition: and they are Sulphur and Argentvive, as ſome Philoſophers ſay. Wherefore, being of a moſt hard and moſt ſtrong Compoſition, they are alſo of moſt difficult Reſolution; but this is, that Inſpiſſation (or Thickning) and Induration (or Hardning) of them each with other, may be in ſuch wiſe made, that they may ſuffer Contuſion and Extenſion, by Malleable Compulſion, and not be broken. By this, no other thing is meant, than that in Commixtion of them each with other, their Viſcous Humidity is preſerved by Succeſſive Decoction in the Mine. Therefore moſt Dear Son, We give you this General Rule, viz. that Inſpiſſation of any Humidity cannot be made, unleſs firſt, with the Humidity be made an Exaltation of the Parts moſt ſubtil; and alſo with the ſame Humidity, Conſervation of the Parts more Groſs (if the Humid in Commixtion exceed the Dry) and a true Mixtion of the Dry and Humid; that the Humidity may be contempered by the Dryneſs, and the Dryneſs by the Humidity, and both become one Subſtance, Homogeneal in its Parts, temperate between hard and ſoft, and extenſive in Contuſion. But this is not done, unleſs by Diuturnal Mixtion of the viſcous Humidity, and ſubtile Earthineſs, through their leaſt parts, until the Humid become the ſame with the Dry, and the Dry with the Humid. And the Reſolution of ſuch a ſubtil Vapour is not ſuddenly made, but very leiſurely, and in thouſands of Years; and that therefore, becauſe it is the Ʋniform Subſtance of the Principles of Nature. For if Reſolution of the ſuperfluous Humidity from them, ſhould ſuddenly be made (ſeeing the Humid differs not from the Dry, by reaſon of the ſtrong Mixtion, which they have) the Humidity of the Mixtion would be reſolved with the Dryneſs, and ſo the whole vaniſh into Fume; nor could the Humidity be ſeperated from the Dryneſs in Reſolution, by reaſon of the ſtrong Ʋnion which they have each with other.

Of this We ſee a manifeſt Experiment in Sublimation of Spirits; for when in them is made a ſudden Reſolution by Sublimation, the Humid is not ſeparated from the Dry, nor the Dry from the Humid, being divided into all the Parts of their Mixtion; but their whole Subſtance aſcends, or little of the Mixture is diſſolved. Therefore the ſucceſſive diuturnal and equal Reſolution of the ſubtile fumous Humidity, is the Cauſe of the Inſpiſſation of Metals. But this Inſpiſſation We cannot alſo make after this manner; therefore in this We cannot follow Nature, for We cannot imitate Nature in all Differences of Properties of Action. Wherefore Our Intention is not to follow Nature in the Principles, nor in the Proportion of mixable Elements, nor in the manner of mixing them each with other; nor in the equation of inſpiſſating (or thickning) Heat: all theſe Things being to Us impoſſible and wholly unknown. Therefore it now remains, that We ſet about refuting the afore-mentioned Reaſons of Sophiſters, through Ignorance denying this moſt excellent Science.

CHAP. III.

A Confutation of the Reaſons of Men ſimply denying Art.

If they ſay We know not the Proportion of Elements, and way of Mixing of them each with other, alſo the Equation of Heat inſpiſſating Metals; and many other Cauſes and conſequent Accidents of the Actions of Nature: We grant the ſame. Yet by reaſon of this they do not enervate Our Divine Science, becauſe they are Things We are neither willing nor able to know, any more than they can reach to Our Work. But We aſſume to Our ſelves another Principle, and another Method of Generation of Metals, in which We are able to follow Nature.

If they ſay Philoſophers and Princes of this World, have deſired this Science and could not find it, We anſwer, They lie. For ſome Princes (though few) and eſpecially the Ancient and Wiſe Men found in Our Time, have (as is manifeſt) by their Induſtry, found out this Science; but would never by Word or Writing diſcover the ſame to ſuch Men, becauſe they are unworthy of it. Therefore They not ſeeing any to poſſeſs this Science, conceive an Error in their Minds, and thence judge that none have found it.

Further, if they phantaſtically argue, affirming our Impotency, that we cannot imitate Nature even in weak Mixtions, as in the Mixtion of an Aſs or Oxe; therefore not in the ſtrong: We anſwer, detecting their manifold Error, that there is no neceſſity, from their Way of arguing, for Us to grant that our Art is not; becauſe they ſtrengthen their Error and Phantaſie, from a Like, or from a Greater to a Leſs, in which is not contained Neceſſity, but Contingency; as in many things. This alſo we ſhew, by another way, demonſtrating, that they aſſign no apparent Similitude between a weak Comixtion of Animals, and the firm and ſtrong Compoſition of Minerals. For in Animals, and other Living Things, in which the Compoſition is weak, there is not a perficient Proportion, nor Miſcibles of Proportion, nor Qualities of Miſcibles, nor a Commixtion, which follows from the Action and Paſſion of thoſe Things each with other, which is▪ from the Aggregation of thoſe firſt Qualities; but there is (according to the Opinion of Many) a Soul, which is from the Occult Receſſes of Nature, as from a Quinteſſence, or from the firſt Mover. And of this alſo we ſpeak, according to the Opinion of many, and know not the Secret thereof. Therefore, we cannot perform ſuch Things as theſe, although in them is a weak Mixtion; becauſe we know not how to infuſe the Perfective, which is the Soul. Yet hence it follows, that the Defect in us, that we cannot compound or make an Oxe, or a Goat, is not from the Part of the Mixtion, but through defect of Infuſion of the Soul: becauſe, as we know how to make a weak and more weak Compoſition, ſo we alſo know how to make the ſtrong and more ſtrong; imitating the Way and Courſe of Nature according to our Artifice. In Metals is leſſer Perfection than in Animals; and the Perfection of them conſiſts more in Proportion and Compoſition, than in any thing elſe. Therefore, ſeeing in them is leſs Perfection, than in the other now mentioned; we can the more freely perfect theſe, but the other not ſo. For the moſt High and Glorious GOD hath diſtinguiſhed Perfections each from other, in many Forms. And thoſe Things, in which the Compoſition (which is according to Nature) was weak, are by GOD indued with greater and more noble Perfection, viz. that, which is according to the Soul: and other things, by him made, of a more firm and more ſtrong Compoſition, as Stones and Minerals, are indued with a leſſer and more ignoble Perfection, viz. that which is from the Way of Mixtion. Therefore, hence 'tis evident, that the Similitude of theſe Men is not good: for we are not ignorant how to form an Oxe, or a Goat, in reſpect of the Compoſition, but of the Perfective Form. Becauſe Perfection in an Oxe, or in a Goat, is more noble and more occult, than the Perfection conſiſting in a Metal.

But if they otherwiſe argue, That Species is not changed into Species; we again ſay, They lye, as they are more accuſtomed, than to ſpeak truly of theſe Things: for Species is changed into Species, in this manner, viz. when the Individual of one Species is changed into the Individual of another. We ſee a Worm, both naturally, and by natural Artifice, to be turned into a Flye, which differs from it in Species; and a Calfe ſtrangled, to be turned into Bees; Wheat into Darnel; and a Dog ſtrangled, into Wormes; by the putrefaction of Ebullition. Yet we do not this, but Nature, to whom we adminiſter, doth the ſame. Likewiſe alſo, we alter not Metals, but Nature; for whom, acording to Art, we prepare that Matter: for ſhe by her ſelf acts, not we; yet we are her Adminiſtrators.

And if they by another Reaſon thus argue, and ſtrengthen their own Sophiſticate Opinion, ſaying: Nature perfects Metals in thouſands of years, but you cannot extend your Life ſo long. We ſay, that Nature acting on her own Principles (according to the Opinion of Philoſophers) perfects them in Thouſands of Years; but becauſe We cannot follow thoſe Principles, therefore, whether Nature perfects theſe in a Thouſand Years, or in more or fewer, or in a moment, their Perſwaſion determines not. That We cannot imitate Nature in her Principles, We have already in the precedent Negative Diſcourſe ſufficiently abbreviated, declared, and in a more compleat Speech, in the Subſequent will demonſtrate: Yet according to the Opinion of ſome Wiſe and Diſcerning Men, Nature ſuddenly perfects her intended Work; viz. in one Day, or in a ſhorter Time. Although this ſhould be true, yet We cannot imitate Nature in the Principles, as We have ſufficiently proved, as a Thing moſt manifeſt. Therefore the remainder of this Argument We confeſs, gra[•]ting the whole to be certainly true.

And if they ſay from the Site of one or more Stars, Perfection is given to Metals, which Site We know not. To this We anſwer, We have no neceſſity to know this Site, becauſe it is not a Species of Things Generable and Corruptible, but from the Individuals of it is made Generation and Corruption of ſomething, every day; whence it is evident that the Site of Stars is every day the Perfective and Corruptive of one or other Species of Individuals. Therefore it is not neceſſary to expect the Site of Stars, yet it would be profitable; but it is ſufficient for Nature only to diſpoſe; for ſhe her ſelf being Wiſe, diſpoſeth her Work by the convenient Sites of moveable Bodies: Yea, Nature cannot perform her own Motion without the Motion and Site of Things moveable. Therefore if you diſpoſe the Artifice of Nature, and conſider whatſoever ſhall fall in from the Contingents of this Magiſtery, the Work will be duly perfected by Nature, under a due Site convenient for it, without any previous Conſideration thereof. For when We ſee a Worm deduced to a Being from a Dog, or other putrefiable Animal, We do not immediately conſider the Site of the Stars, but the Diſpoſitions of the ſurrounding Air, and other Cauſes (beſides that) perfective of Putrefaction. From ſuch a Conſideration We ſufficiently know, Worms to be produced into a Being, according to Nature; for Nature finds out a Site convenient for her ſelf, although unknown by Us.

Alſo, If they ſay Perfection is given in an Inſtant, and Our Preparation is not made in an Inſtant: And hence conclude, That Our Magiſtery cannot be compleated by Artifice; therefore the Art is not: We ſay their Heads are fatuate and void of Humane Reaſon, and they themſelves more like to Beaſts than Men; for they conclude from Premiſes, having no Affinity with that which is related.

Therefore this way of arguing (An Aſs runs, ergo, Thou art a Goat) ſignifies as much as theirs. And that for this Reaſon, Although Preparation be not made in an Inſtant, yet that hinders not, but that the Form or Perfection may be given in an Inſtant to the Matter prepared; for Preparation is not Perfection, but a diſpoſing to receive the Form.

Moreover, If they ſay that it is eaſier to deſtroy Natural Things than to make them by Artifice, and that we can ſcarcely deſtroy Gold, and thence conclude it to be impoſſible to make the ſame. We anſwer, That ſo ſaying they conclude not of a neceſſity, by which We are compelled to grant Gold cannot be made: For ſeeing it is difficultly deſtroyed, and more difficultly made; but is not impoſſible that it may be made (of which difficulty We aſſign this Reaſon, viz. Becauſe it hath a ſtrong Compoſition, it muſt needs have a more difficult Reſolution, and therefore is difficultly deſtroyed;) yet hence they think the Conſtruction or Making of it impoſſible, becauſe they know not its Artificial Deſtruction, according to the Courſe of Nature. Perhaps they have by Tryal proved it to be of a ſtrong Compoſition, but of how ſtrong a Compoſition have not tryed. Thus moſt dear Son, We have preſented to you, and refuted, the Phantaſies of Sophiſters.

Therefore now 'tis expedient We ſhould, according to Our Promiſe, paſs to thoſe Things that are to be determined, touching the Reaſons of Men denying the Art, from Things given, or on Suppoſition. Which being duly examined, We ſhall then come to determine thoſe Things, which are Principles of the Intention of Nature; the Eſſence of which We ſhall more ſufficiently diſcourſe of in the following: But after that Determination, We ſhall alſo ſpeak of thoſe Things that are the Principles of Our Magiſtery. Yet in treating of the Firſt, We make an univerſal, but in the following a ſingular Diſcourſe of every one of the Principles. But now for the preſent We firſt betake Our Selves to the Reaſons of Men denying the Art, from Things given; and their Refutations.

CHAP. IV.

Divers Opinions of thoſe who ſuppoſe the Art to be.

VVE find very many Men with a diverſe Intention, ſuppoſing this Art. Some indeed affirm that this Art and Magiſtery is to be found in Spirits, but others in Bodies; ſome in Salts, Allomes, Nitres, and Boraces, but others in all Vegetable Things. And among all the aforeſaid, ſome partly well and partly ill, others altogether evil, judging of this Divine Magiſtery, commit that their Judgment to Poſterity. Yet from the multiplicities of their Errors, We have gathered the Truth, and this hath happened to Us, with difficult and laborious conjectural Warineſs, and long and tedious Experience, with the Interpoſition of great Charges; for their Error hath very often diſturbed the Diſpoſition of Our Mind and Reaſon, and almoſt inferred Deſperation. Be they therefore blaſphemed to Eternity, becauſe they have left to their Poſterity Blaſphemies and a Curſe, and by their Error brought the ſame on Men Philoſophiſing. For they left not behind them after their Death, Verity, but a Diabolick Inſtigation rather; and I ſhall be accurſed if I Correct not the Errors of thoſe Men, and teach the Truth in this Science, which this True Art rather requires: For this Magiſtery needs not a Speech occult, nor wholly manifeſt. Therefore We ſhall treat of it in ſuch Words as may not be hid from the Wiſe, but to Men of mean Capacity it Will be moſt profound, and Fools ſhall be abſolutely debarr'd from Entrance therein. Which We intend here in one and the ſame Diſcourſe.

But returning to Our Purpoſe, We ſay, That thoſe who poſite this Art in Spirits are manifoldly divers. Some affirm, That the Stone of Philoſophers muſt neceſſarily be made of Argentvive; others of Sulphur and of Arſnick in affinity to it, others of Marchaſite; ſome of Tutia and Magneſia, and not a few of Salarmoniac. And of thoſe who ſay it is in Bodies, ſome will have it in Lead, others in every of the other Bodies: ſo likewiſe ſome in Glaſs, ſome in Gems; others in the Diverſities of Salts, Allomes, Nitres, and Boraces; and ſome in every kind of Vegetables: And every one of theſe Suppoſers is adverſe to the other, according to his Suppoſition: and being adverſe to theſe, he believes himſelf to be ſimply adverſe to the Art. And for the moſt part We find either of theſe Sects void of Reaſon.

CHAP. V.

Of the Reaſons of Men denying the Art ſuppoſed in Sulphur.

Some ſuppoſing to find this Art in Sulphur, imploy their whole Labour in Sulphur, and being ignorant of the Perfection of the Preparation, they leave the Preparation it ſelf uncompleat; for they conceit that Cleanſing and Purifying only will be a Preparation of Perfection. But this is done by Sublimation, therefore brought to their Intention, as they think; becauſe they judge that Sublimation only in Sulphur is the Perfection of its Preparation; and likewiſe in its Compeer, viz. Arſnick, they are induced to the like Judgment. Therefore coming to Projection, which is with Intention of Alteration, they ſee that to be burned and vaniſh, and not long to abide in Bodies, and thoſe Bodies to be left more unclean than they were before Projection of their Matter upon them. Now ſeeing this Deluſion in the Compleatment of their Work, and that in a long time, whereas before they concluded in their Minds; that this Science was to be found in Sulphur only; but now having not therein found it, they argue it is impoſſible to find it in an other Thing; wherefore, being not found in this or that, they conclude 'tis no where to be found.

The Confutation of the precedent Reaſons.

TO theſe We briefly anſwer and ſay, that in this they underſtand little, and are leſs Wiſe; becauſe they ſuppoſe Sulphur only to be the Matter of Our Stone. If this their Suppoſition were true, yet in the way of Preparation they are deceived; becauſe they conceit Sublimation only to be ſufficient: For they are like to a Child, who from his firſt Nativity, unto Old Age, is ſhut up within an Houſe, not thinking the Latitude of the World to be extended beyond the Latitude of his Houſe, or beyond what he can with his Eyes ſee in the Houſe. So they, having not imployed their Labour in many Stones, could not diſcern from which Our Medicine ſhould be extracted, and from which not; from which alſo abſtaining, they might ſpare an abundant Labour of their Hands. Therefore, what Labour would be perfective, or not perfective, they are deſervedly ignorant. But why was their Work defective? We ſay, becauſe they left the burning Property and Flight in the Sulphur; both which do not only not perfect, but alſo diſſipate and deſtroy.

CHAP. VI.

Of the Reaſons of Men denying the Art ſuppoſed in Arſnick, and their Refutation.

BUt others judging this Stone muſt neceſſarily be found in the ſame, and in its Compeer, Arſnick, and more profoundly intent on the Conſummation of the Work, do not only by a Sublimation cleanſe the burning Sulphureity, but alſo endeavour to remove the Terreſtreity, leaving the Flight (or Volatility) in it. Theſe in like manner, coming to Projection, find a Deluſion in it; becauſe their Medicine adheres not ſtably in thoſe very Bodies, but ſucceſſively, and by little and little vaniſheth, leaving ſuch a Body in its former Condition. Hence theſe alſo, condemning Art, argue like the former; and to them We anſwer, as We did to the Firſt, affirming the Art, and that We know it to be, becauſe We have ſeen and touched the Verity thereof.

CHAP. VII.

The Reaſons of Men denying Art ſuppoſed in Sulphur, Argentvive, Tutia, Magneſia, Marchaſite, and Salarmoniac, with their Re efutation.

OTher ſome more profoundly ſee into the Work, and cleanſe their Subjects, taking away both Flight and Aduſtion; and they make it fixt and earthy, having no good Fuſion in Heat of Fire, but a vitrificatory Fuſion only; whence, in Projection it cannot mix with Bodies. Therefore they alſo argue, as the firſt, and to theſe We anſwer, as to the firſt: Becauſe they left their Work imperfect, not knowing how to compleat it. For the Ingreſs, which is the Ʋltimate Perfective, they knew not how to ſearch out.

In all other Spirits likewiſe, is the ſame way of Preparation, except that in Argentvive and Tutia's, We are excuſed from greater Labour, than Remotion of their Aduſtion; for theſe have not an aduſtible and inflamable Sulphureity, but only Volatility. But Magneſia's, and Marchaſites, have every kind of Sulphureity (Marchaſite more, and Magneſia leſs) yet all have Flight or Volatility, Argentvive more, and Salarmoniac leſs; but Sulphur yet leſs than its Compeer: and fourthly, Marchaſite leſs than it; fifthly, Magneſia leſs than that: and laſtly, Tutia leaſt of all. But either of theſe partaking more or leſs of Volatility, ſome Experimentators, by reaſon of this Flight, have been vehemently deceived in the Operations of their Preparations, and in their Projections likewiſe. Therefore theſe alſo argue and condemn the Art, as others, ſuppoſing it in Sulphur; and to theſe We anſwer, as to thoſe ſuppoſing it in Sulphur.

CHAP. VIII.

The Reaſons of Men denying the Art ſuppoſed in Spirits, to be fixed together with Bodies; and their Refutation.

THere are Others alſo endeavouring to fix Spirits in Bodies, without any other precedent Preparation: but Deluſion perplexing them, hath on them likewiſe brought Sadneſs and Deſparation; and they are compelled thence to believe, that this Science is not; and conſequently to argue againſt it. For it is a Cauſe of Diſturbance and Incredulity in them, that in the Fuſion of Bodies, they loſe their Spirits, which cannot adhere to the ſame Bodies, but flie from the Aſperity of the Fire, the Bodies only remaining therein: becauſe they cannot bear the Preſſure of the Fire's Violence, by reaſon of Volatility, which is not removed from them. Likewiſe, Deluſion ſometimes happens, becauſe with thoſe Spirits, Bodies do alſo fly away; and this is, when the not-fixed Spirits inſeparably adhere to Bodies in their Profundity: becauſe the Sum of the Volatile overcomes the Sum of the Fixed. Whence alſo they likewiſe, as the firſt, argue, and we to them likewiſe, as to the firſt, anſwer. Therefore this turns wholly to their Reproach.

Sons of Learning, if you would convert Bodies, then (We ſay) if it be poſſible to effect this by any Matter, it muſt neceſſarily be done by Spirits; but it is not poſſible that theſe Spirits not fixed ſhould profitably adhere to Bodies; for they fly away, and leave them unclean. Nor can theſe Spirits, being fixed, poſſibly have Ingreſs, when they are made Earth, which flows not. And when ſuch Spirits included in Bodies appear fixed, yet they are not; but either recede from them, they remaining, or both take their flight together. Therefore, ſeeing in a Matter more nigh, it is by no means poſſible to find out this Art, in a Matter more remote it cannot be found. Ergo, ſay they, 'tis no where found. To theſe our Anſwer is this, Whatſoever is knowable in this Art they do not throughly know, therefore do they not throughly find out what is, or may be operated with it. Therefore, the following Deficiency of their Work is the effect of their own Raſhneſs.

CHAP. IX.

The Reaſons of Men denying the Art ſuppoſed in Bodies, and firſt in White Lead, that is, Tin or Jupiter, and their Confutation.

SOme poſite the Art in Bodies, but when they come to the Work it ſelf, they are deluded; judging either Lead, viz. the Livid and White (not pure in Whiteneſs) to be much aſſimilated and approximate to the Nature of Sol and Luna; the Livid is indeed much approximate to Sol, but to Luna little; and the White much to Luna, but little to Sol. Therefore ſome of theſe Men conceiting Tin or Jupiter to be much like to Luna or Silver (differing only in the harſh ſound, ſoftneſs, and very ſwift Liquefaction) believing it eaſily melted, by reaſon of the ſuperfluity of its Humidity; and ſoft, by reaſon of the Fugitive Subſtance of Argentvive in it, reſiding in the Parts poſſeſſing that harſh Sound; they Calcine the ſame, keeping it in ſuch a Fire as it can bear, until it be White in its Calx, which they afterward attempting to reduce, could not; therefore judged it impoſſible to be effected: And ſome of theſe could reduce ſomewhat from it, and found the ſame harſh ſound, ſoftneſs, and eaſie Liquefaction in that, as before. Therefore they believed this impoſſible by this way, and ſo were induced to Incredulity; thinking the Art of hardning it, not poſſible to be found out. But ſome of theſe Calcined Tin, and reduced it; and again, removing the Scoria thereof, with greater force of Fire calcined and reduced it; and ſo by often reiterating that Work, they found their Tin hardned, and without that harſh ſound: But becauſe they had not wholly taken away the ſwiftneſs of its Liquefaction, their Mind erred, and they judged it a thing not poſſible to attain to that. Wherefore of theſe, others alſo, willing to procure hardneſs to it, and a Retardation of Liquefaction, with the Adminiſtration of hard Bodies, have fallen into a Deluſion, and believed, that it would break whatſoever hard Bodies was mixed with it; and that in this Work no Preparation could help them. Therefore when they could neither prepare it with hard Bodies, nor with Fire; they excuſed themſelves for being ſo long delayed in finding out the Art; becauſe they believed it impoſſible: and earneſtly arguing againſt the Art, poſitively affirmed it not to be. Beſides theſe, ſome others adding many Medicaments, ſaw them making no Mutation nor agreeing with their Tin, but rather corrupting the ſame, and acting contrary to their Purpoſe; therefore they caſt away their Books, retorted their Heads, and affirmed this True and Divine Art to be frivolous. Therefore theſe Men We anſwer, with Our firſt anſwer.

CHAP. X.

The Reaſons of Men denying the Art ſuppoſed in Black Lead or Saturn.

THe ſame Deluſion they alſo find in Black Lead, or Saturn; except only that it breaks not Bodies, and is ſooner reduced to a Calx than Jupiter. Yet its Livid Colour they cannot remove, becauſe they are ignorant of that; therefore they cannot whiten, with good Dealbation; nor could they ever, by their Phantaſy, ſo ſtably aſſociate it with ſtably Bodies, but that it would by ſtrong Expreſſion of Fire, recede from the Commixtion. And indeed Lead doth exceedingly deceive them (ſuppoſing in the Preparation thereof much is ſited, and that this Science can be found in none, but it) becauſe, after two Reductions from its Calx, it receives no further Hardning, but rather greater Softneſs, than it had at firſt; and in other Differencies likewiſe, they ſee it not amended. Therefore when they, thinking in it to find what is more nigh and better, find it not; they are compelled to believe and argue that the Science is no other, than a Deluſion; and therefore they offend, as the former.

CHAP. II.

The Reaſons of Men denying the Art ſuppoſed in the Mixtion of Hard Bodies with Hard, and of Soft with Soft.

BUt others compound hard Bodies with hard, and ſoft with ſoft, by reaſon of Conveniency, would have Bodies to be tranſmuted each into other, and to tranſmute; and that they could not attain to by reaſon of their Ignorance. For they, permixing Sol, or Luna, with Venus, or with any other of the Metals, could not tranſmute them into Gold or Silver, with firm Tranſmutation; but they found every one of them, by the ſtrong Expreſſion of Fire, ſeparated from the Commixtion, and burnt, or reduced to its former Nature. Yet ſome of theſe Bodies dure in the Commixtion, others not; as is by us ſufficiently known. Therefore, theſe Deluſions, ſupervenient through Ignorance, make ſuch Men to deſpair of the Art, and argue it is not in being.

CHAP. XII.

The Reaſons of Men denying the Art ſuppoſed, in the Mixtion of Hard Bodies with Soft, and of Perfect Bodies with the Imperfect.

OThers, more intimately and profoundly ſearching, have thought and been perſwaded, they could find out a way of cauſing Hard Bodies united with Soft, firmly to endure, and Imperfect Bodies united with the Perfect, to be reduced to Perfection; and that generally they would be tranſmuted each into other, and tranſmute with firm tranſmutation. Therefore they would find out the Affinity and Similitude of them, both by Medicines, and by the Adminiſtration of Fire, attenuating the Groſs; as Venus and Mars, and inſpiſſating the Subtile; as is Jupiter, and its like. And ſome of them, believing they could compleat this Adminiſtration, were deluded in the Commixtion of theſe Hard Bodies, with the Soft, either becauſe the one made the other altogether frangible; or elſe the Soft was not at all altered by the Hard, or the Hard in no wiſe altered, by the Soft. Thus they, not finding out the Conveniency, did therefore deny the Art to be.

CHAP. XIII.

The Reaſons of Men denying the Art ſuppoſed, in Extraction of the Soul, or in the Regiment of Fire.

BUT Others, yet more intimately and more profoundly inſpecting, would alter Bodies with Extraction of their Soul, and with the Extracted Soul all other things likewiſe. Yet the Experience of thoſe Men could not reach to that, but they were deluded in their Intention; and accordingly judged the Art not poſſible to be found out. And Others, endeavouring to perfect Bodies by Fire only, were deluded in their Opinion; becauſe they knew not how to attain to that. And theſe accordingly think the Art not to be. All which we anſwer, as the firſt.

CHAP. XIV.

The Reaſons of Men denying the Art ſuppoſed, in Glaſs and Gems, and their Refutation.

THEY who poſite this Art in Glaſs and Gems, have found, that Alteration cannot be made in Bodies, by Gems and Glaſs; becauſe, what hath not Ingreſs, alters not. But indeed, neither Glaſs nor Gems have Ingreſs, therefore alter not. And when they endeavoured to unite the Glaſs with them (which is difficult to be done) they miſſed of their Purpoſe; becauſe they made their Bodies alſo Glaſs: and by reaſon of this, they concluded this Error to fall upon the whole Art, and ſo argue that it is not. To whom we anſwer, they operated not in due Matter; therefore unduly determining, they cannot but condemn this Art according to their own Errors.

CHAP. XV.

The Reaſons of Men denying the Art ſuppoſed in Middle Minerals, or Vegetables, or in the Commixtion of any other Things.

THere are Others, ſuppoſing the Art to be found in Salts and Alloms, Nitres and Boraces; who may indeed in theſe make Tryal, but (as we judg) not find it in them. Therefore, although they ſhould, by their Experience, find ſome ſmall Ʋtility of Tranſmutation, viz. by Diſſolving, Coagulating, and Coacting; yet that doth not enervate this Divine Art, which is both neceſſary and known. Nevertheleſs, it is poſſible, that in all theſe Things they may find ſome Alteration; but that is very remote, and exceeding Laborious; and in all other Growing Things, it is proved to be more Laborious to ſuch Suppoſers.

Therefore they, who poſſeſt this Art in all Vegetables, do indeed determine what is poſſible, but not to them; who ſhall firſt fail in their Labour, before the Work laboured can poſſibly be perfected. Wherefore, if ſuch Men find not the Art by their Labours, it muſt not be argued, that the Art cannot by any Labours be found out. All the before-mentioned Erroneous Perſons determined one Matter of theirs to be the only Matter, and ſuppoſed there was no other Matter beſides that; and theſe now do indeed condemn all the other.

But there are many Others, and thoſe almoſt infinite, who ignorantly, and without knowledg, make a Compoſition of all, or of ſome of theſe Things, in a diverſe Proportion; and their Error is extended even to Infinity, according to the Infinite Diverſity of the Proportion of things mixable, and the Infinite Diverſity of miſcible Matters. And in both theſe Infinities they infinitely err; ſometimes through Superaboundance, and ſometimes through Diminution: yet in theſe, Correction is poſſible. And we, without prolixity, or tediouſneſs of Words, reſolve to inſiſt upon theſe Infinities, where we briefly treat of the Ʋniverſal Science, by which they will be able evidently to amend the Infinity of their Errors, and correct them. But at this time, we muſt firſt diſcuſs Natural Principles according to their Cauſes (as we told you before) and by a Commemoration of them.

The third Part of this Firſt Book; Of Natural Principles, and their Effect.

CHAP. I.

Of the Natural Principles of Metalick Bodies, according to the Opinion of the Ancients.

WE now ſignifie to you, that (according to the Opinion of the Ancients, who were of our Sect, ſtudious of Art) Natural Principles in the Work of Nature are, a Fetent Spirit, and Living Water, which is alſo named Dry Water. Theſe We grant, and thus define the Fetent Spirit. It is white in Occulto, and Red and Black of either ſide, in the Magiſtery of this Work; but, in Manifeſto, of either ſide, tending to Redneſs. Therefore, in a brief, and alſo a ſimply compleat, and ſufficient Speech, We declare the Generation, and way of Generation of each of theſe. Yet We muſt ſo far enlarge and dilate our Diſcourſe, as to deliver a peculiar Chapter of each ſingular Natural Principle. In general We now ſay, that every one of theſe is of a moſt ſtrong Compoſition, and uniform Subſtance; and that, becauſe the Earthy parts in them, are through their leaſt particles united with the Airy, Watery, and Firy; ſo that in Reſolution no one of them can be ſeparated, but each with all and every one is diſſolved, by reaſon of the ſtrong Ʋnion, which they have each with other, in their leaſt particles; and that leiſurely, in the Mineral Bowels of the Earth, by Heat condenſed, multiplied, and (according to the due Courſe of Nature) equalized to the Exigency of their Eſſence, according to the Opinion of certain Ancient Philoſophers.

CHAP. II.

Of the Natural Principles of Metals, according to the Opinion of Modern Philoſophers, and of the Author.

BUt others ſay otherwiſe, That Argentvive in its Nature was not the Principle, but altered, and converted into its Earth, and Sulphur likewiſe altered and changed into Earth. Whence they ſay, that in the Intention of Nature, the Principle was other, than a foetent Spirit, and fugitive Spirit. And the Reaſon, that moved them hereunto, was this, viz. becauſe, in the Silver Mines, or in the Mines of other Metals, they found not any thing that is Argentvive in its Nature, or any thing that is Sulphur likewiſe; but they found each of them ſeparated in its proper Mine, in its own Nature. And they alſo affirm this for another Reaſon, viz. becauſe there is no tranſition (as they ſay) from Contrary to Contrary, unleſs by a Middle Diſpoſition. Therefore, ſeeing it ſo is, they are compelled to confeſs and believe that there is no Tranſition (or Paſſing) from the Softneſs of Argentvive, to the hardneſs of any Metal, unleſs by a Diſpoſition, which is between the Hardneſs and Softneſs of them. But in the Mines they find not any thing, in which this Middle Diſpoſition may be ſalved; therefore they are compelled hence to believe, that Argentvive and Sulphur, in their Nature, are not the Principles according to the Intention of Nature: but another Thing, which follows from the Alteration of their Eſſences, in the Root of Nature, into an Earthy Subſtance. And this is the Way, by which each of them is turned into an Earthy Nature; and from theſe two Earthy Natures, a moſt thin Fume is reſolved, by Heat multiplied in the Bowels of the Earth; and this Duplicate Fume is the immediate Matter of Metals.

This Fume, when it ſhall be Decocted by the temperate Heat of the Mine, is converted into the Nature of a certain Earth; therefore it receives a certain Fixation, which afterward the Water (flowing through the Bowels of the Minera, and Spongioſity of the Earth) diſſolves, and is uniformly united to it, with a natural and firm Ʋnion. Therefore, ſo opining, they thus ſaid, That the Water flowing through the Paſſages of the Earth, finds a Subſtance diſſolvible from the Subſtance of the Earth in the Bowels thereof, and diſſolves the ſame, and is uniformly with it united, until the Subſtance alſo of the Earth in the Mines is diſſolved, and the flowing diſſolving Water and it become one with Natural Ʋnion. And to ſuch a Mixtion come all the Elements, according to a due natural Proportion, and are mixed through their leaſt Parts, until they make an Uniform Mixtion. And this Mixtion, by ſucceſſive Decoction in the Mine, is thickned, hardned, and made a Metal. And indeed, theſe Men, although they be nigh the Truth, yet they do not conjecture the very Truth.

CHAP. III.

The Diviſion of what are to be ſpoken, touching the Three Principles, viz. Sulphur, Arſenick, and Argentvive.

NOW, having finiſhed our Univerſal Diſcourſe of the Natural Principles of Metals; it remains, that we here give a peculiar Chapter to each one of the Principles. Therefore, ſeeing they are Three, viz. Sulphur, Arſenick, and Argentvive; the firſt ſhall be of Sulphur, the ſecond of Arſenick, and the third of Argentvive. Afterward, of every of the Metals, which are the Effects of theſe Principles, we give a peculiar Chapter, according to what it is from the Work of Nature. This being done, we, deſcending to thoſe Things which are the Fundamentals of this Magiſtery, and to their Operations, will aſſign the Cauſes of all theſe.

CHAP. IV.

Of Sulphur.

THerefore we ſay, that Sulphur is a fatneſs of the Earth, by temperate Decoction in the Mine of the Earth thickned, until it be hardned and made dry; and when it is hardned, it is called Sulphur. Indeed Sulphur hath an Homogeneal and moſt ſtrong Compoſition, and is of an Ʋniform Subſtance in its natural parts, becauſe it is Homogeneal. Therefore, its Oyl is not taken from it, as from other things having Oyl by Diſtillation. Wherefore they, who ſtrive to calcine it, not loſing any thing of the Subſtance of that with which it ſhould be cured, do labour in vain; becauſe it cannot be calcined, unleſs by great Induſtry, and with loſs of much of the Subſtance thereof. For of an hundred Parts, you ſhall ſcarcely reſerve three to your ſelf after Calcination. Likewiſe, it cannot be fixed, unleſs it be firſt calcined; yet it may be mixed, and its flight in ſome meaſure retarded, and its Aduſtion repreſſed; and being commixed, may more eaſily be calcined. Therefore, he who endeavours to extract our Work from it, by preparing it by it ſelf, he ſhall not obtain his end; becauſe it muſt be perfected with Mixtion, and without that the Magiſtery would be prolonged even to Deſperation. Yet with its Compeer a Tincture is made, and it gives compleat Weight to every of the Metals, and cleanſeth and illuſtrates them: and it is perfected with our Magiſtery, without which it performs none of theſe things, but rather corrupts and blackens. Therefore uſe it not without this Magiſtery.

Alſo, he who in Preparation knows how to commix, and unite it amicably with Bodies, knows one of the Greateſt Secrets of Nature, and one way of Perfection: for there are many Ways to one Effect, and one Intent. And whatſoever Body is calcined with it, undoubtedly receives weight; yea, Copper from it aſſumes the Effigies of Sol. Alſo Mercury is aſſociated with it, and by Sublimation becomes Ʋſifar (or Cinnabar.) Laſtly, All Bodies, except Sol and Jupiter, are eaſily calcined with it; but Sol moſt difficultly. And Argentvive is not coagulated with it into Gold or Silver (in which is profit) by a mean Artifice, as ſome fatuate Philoſophers have thought. And further we ſay, that whatſoever Bodies have leſs Humidity, they are more eaſily calcined by Sulphur, than thoſe which have much. Through the moſt High GOD, it illuminates every Body; becauſe it is Light, Allom, and Tincture. Alſo, it is moſt difficultly diſſolved, becauſe it hath not ſalſuginous, but oleginous Parts, which are not eaſily diſſolved into Water. But what are eaſily, or difficultly diſſolved into Water, we ſhall plainly enough demonſtrate in the Chapter of Solution. It is indeed ſublimed, becauſe it is Spirit. And if it be mixed with Venus, and united to it, it becomes a wonderful Violet Colour. With Mercury alſo it may be mixed, and of them is made by Decoction a Celeſtial and delightful Colour: Yet, let no Man think that Sulphur can by it ſelf compleat the Work of Alchimy. For it would be no leſs than Vanity to think this, as we ſhall very ſufficiently prove in the following. But let the Groſs and Lucid be choſen. Theſe may ſuffice to be ſpoken of Sulphur.

CHAP. V.

Of Arſenick.

IT now remains that we at preſent ſpeak of Arſenick. We ſay it is of a ſubtile Matter, and like to Sulphur; therefore it needs not be otherwiſe defined than Sulphur. But it is diverſified from Sulphur in this, viz. becauſe it is eaſily a Tincture of Whiteneſs, but of Redneſs moſt difficultly: and Sulphur, of Whiteneſs moſt difficultly: but of Redneſs eaſily. Of Sulphur and Arſenick there is a twofold Kind, viz. Citrine and Red, which are profitable to this Art; but the many other Kinds not ſo. Arſenick is fixed as Sulphur; but the Sublimation of either is beſt from the Calx of Metals. Yet Sulphur and Arſenick are not the perfective Matter of this Work: for they are not compleat to Perfection; yet they may be an help to Perfection in the Caſe. But the Lucid and Scaly, and Sciſſile muſt be taken.

CHAP. VI.

Of Argentvive, or Mercury.

ARgentvive, which alſo is called Mercury by the Ancients, is a viſcous Water in the Bowels of the Earth, by moſt temperate Heat united, in a total Ʋnion through its leaſt parts, with the ſubſtance of white ſubtile Earth, until the Humid be contempered by the Dry, and the Dry by the Humid, equally. Therefore it eaſily runs upon a plain Superficies, by reaſon of its Watery Humidity; but it adheres not, although it hath a viſcous Humidity, by reaſon of the Dryneſs of that which contemperates it, and permits it not to adhere. It is alſo (as ſome ſay) the Matter of Metals with Sulphur. And it eaſily adheres to three Minerals, viz. to Saturn, and Jupiter, and Sol, but to Luna more difficultly. To Venus more difficultly than to Luna; but to Mars in no wiſe, unleſs by Artifice. Therefore hence you may collect a very great Secret. For it is amicable, and pleaſing to Metals, and the Medium of conjoyning Tinctures; and nothing is ſubmerged in Argentvive, unleſs it be Sol. Yet Jupiter and Saturn, Luna and Venus, are diſſolved by it, and mixed; and without it, none of the Metals can be gilded. It is fixed, and it is a Tincture of Redneſs of moſt exuberant Refection, and fulgid Splendor; and then it recedes not from the Commixtion, until it is in its own Nature. Yet it is not our Medicine in its Nature; but it can ſometimes likewiſe help in the Caſe.

CHAP. VII.

Of the Effects of the Principles of Nature, which are Metallick Bodies.

WE now ſpeak of Metallick Bodies, which are the Effects of theſe Principles of Nature. Theſe are Six in number, viz. Gold, Silver, Lead, Tin, Copper, and Iron. Therefore we ſay, a Metal is a Mineral fu[••]ble Body, extenſible with all Dimenſions under the Hammer. But a Metal is (as we ſayd) of a denſe Subſtance, and of moſt ſtrong and firm Compoſition. And Metals have great affinity each with other, yet the perfect perfects not the diminiſhed, by its Commixtion. For if Gold be mixed in fuſion with Lead, this Lead becomes not Gold, but vaniſheth from the Mixtion, and is burnt; the Gold in the mean while ſtands the Tryal. So likewiſe, in inſtancing the other, it falls according to the Common Courſe. But, according to our Magiſtery, the Perfect helps the Imperfect; and the Imperfect, in our Magiſtery, by it ſelf is Perfected, without the Adminiſtration of any Extraneous Thing. And through GOD, they alter each other, and are altered; and they perfect each other, and are perfected: and one only by it ſelf is perfected without the help of another.

CHAP. VIII.

Of Sol, or Gold.

WE have already given you, in a General Chapter. the Sum of the Intention of Metals; and here we now intend to make a ſpecial Declaration of each one. And firſt of Gold. We ſay, Gold is a Metallick Body, Citrine, ponderous, mute, fulgid, equally digeſted in the Bowels of the Earth, and very long waſhed with Mineral Water; under the Hammer extenſible, fuſible, and ſuſtaining the Tryal of the Cupel, and Cement. According to this Definition, you may conclude, that nothing is true Gold, unleſs it hath all the Cauſes and Differencies of the Definition of Gold. Yet, whatſoever Metal is radically Citrine, and brings to Equality, and cleanſeth, it makes Gold of every kind of Metals. Therefore, we conſider by the Work of Nature, and diſcern, that Copper may be changed into Gold by Artifice. For we ſee in Copper Mines, a certain Water which flows out, and carries with it thin Scales of Copper, which (by a continual and long continued Courſe) it waſheth and cleanſeth. But after ſuch Water ceaſeth to flow, we find theſe thin Scales with the dry Sand, in three years time to be digeſted with the Heat of the Sun; and among theſe Scales the pureſt Gold is found. Therefore, We judg, thoſe Scales were cleanſed by the benefit of the Water, but were equally digeſted by heat of the Sun, in the Dryneſs of the Sand, and ſo brought to Equality. Wherefore, imitating Nature, as far as we can, we likewiſe alter; yet in this we cannot follow Nature.

Alſo Gold is of Metals the moſt precious, and it is the Tincture of Redneſs; becauſe it ringeth and transforms every Body. It is calcined and diſſolved without profit, and is a Medicine rejoycing, and conſerving the Body in Youth. It is moſt eaſily broken with Mercury, and by the Odour of Lead. There is not any Body that in act more agrees with it in Subſtance than Jupiter and Luna: but in Weight, Deafeneſs, and Putreſcibility, Saturn, in Colour Venus; in Potency indeed Venus is more next Luna than Jupiter, and then Saturn: but laſtly Mars. And this one of the Secrets of Nature. Likewiſe Spirits are commixed with it, and by it fixed, but not without very great Ingenuity, which comes not to an Artificer of a ſtiff neck.

CHAP. IX.

Of Luna, or Silver.

HAving premiſed the Chapter of Sol, We come now to ſpeak of Luna, by a common name called Silver. Therefore, We ſay, Silver is a Metallick Body, White with pure Whiteneſs, Clean, Hard, Sounding, very durable in the Cupel, extenſible under the Hammer, and fuſible. And it is the Tincture of Whiteneſs, and hardens Tin by Artifice, and converts it to it ſelf; and it is mixed with Sol, and breaks not; but in the Examination it perſeveres not without Artifice. He who knows how more to ſubtiliate it, and after ſubtiliation, to inſpiſſate and fix it aſſociated with Gold; it remains with it in the Teſt, and will in no wiſe forſake it. Being put over the fume of acute Things, as of Vinegar, Salarmoniac, &c. it will be of a wonderful Celeſtine Colour. And it is a noble Body, but wants of the Nobility of Gold; and its Minera is found determinate: but it often hath a Minera confuſed with other Bodies, and that Silver is not ſo noble. It is likewiſe diſſolved, and calcined with great Labour, and no Profit.

CHAP. X.

Of Saturn, or Lead.

OF Lead we likewiſe treat, and ſay, Lead is a Metallick Body, livid, earthy, ponderous, mute, partaking of a little Whiteneſs, with much paleneſs, refuſing the Cineritium and Cement, eaſily in all its dimenſions with ſmall Compreſſion extenſible, and readily fuſible, without Ignition. Yet ſome fooliſh Men conceit, and ſay, that Lead in its own Nature is much approximated to Gold. But becauſe they are ſtiff-necked, and void of all Reaſon, they cannot conceive of the Truth of Things moſt ſubtile, as it is in it ſelf, but judg of them according to Senſe. And becauſe they ſee it ponderous, and mute, and not to putrifie they believe it to be much nigh in Property to Sol; but this is wholly erroneous, as by the following ſhall be by us manifeſtly proved at large. Alſo Lead hath much of an Earthy Subſtance, therefore it is waſhed, and by a Lavament turned into Tin. Hence it is manifeſt that Tin is more aſſimilated to the Perfect. Lead is in like manner burnt, and made Minium; and it is put over the Vapours of Vinegar, and made Ceruſs. And although it is not much approximate to Perfection, yet of it, by our Artifice, we eaſily make Silver; and it keeps not its proper weight in Tranſmutation, but is changed into a new weight: All this it acquires in our Magiſtery. Lead alſo is the Tryal of Silver in the Cupel, the Cauſes of which We give.

CHAP. XI.

Of Jupiter, or Tin.

THerefore, not omitting to diſcourſe of Jupiter, We ſignifie to the Sons of Learning, that Tin is a Metallick Body, white, not pure, livid, and ſounding little, partaking of little Earthineſs; poſſeſſing in its Root Harſhneſs, Softneſs, and ſwiftneſs of Liquefaction, without Ignition, and not abiding the Cupel, or Cement, but Extenſible under the Hammer. Therefore, Jupiter, among Bodies diminiſhed from Perfection, is in the Radix of its Nature of Affinity to the more Perfect, viz. to Sol and Luna; more to Luna, but leſs to Sol, as ſhall be clearly declared in the following. Jupiter, becauſe it receives much Whiteneſs from the Radix of its Generation, therefore it whitens all Bodies not White; yet its vice is, that it breaks every Body, but Saturn, and moſt pure Sol. And Jupiter adheres much to Sol and Luna, and therefore doth not eaſily recede from them, by Examen (or Tryal of Cupel.) In the Magiſtery of this Art, it receives a Tincture of Redneſs, and that ſhines in it with ineſtimable Brightneſs. It is hardned and cleanſed more eaſily than Saturn. And he who knows how to take away its Vice of breaking, will ſuddenly reap the fruit of his Labour with joy. For it agrees with Sol and Luna, and will never be ſeparated from them.

CHAP. XII.

Of Venus, or Copper.

OUR intended Diſcourſe now is of Venus, or Copper. It is a Metallick Body, livid, partaking of a dusky Redneſs ignible (or ſuſtaining Ignition) fuſible, extenſible under the Hammer, but refuſing the Cupel, and Cement. Therefore Venus (as is declared) in the profundity of its Subſtance, pretends to the Colour and Eſſence of Gold, and it is hammered being heat red hot, as Silver and Gold is. Therefore, hence you may learn a Secret: for it is the Medium of Sol and Luna, and eaſily comes to convert its Nature to either; and it is of good Converſion, and of little Labour. It agrees very well with Tutia, which citrinizeth (or Colours) it with good Yellowneſs; and hence you may reap profit. For we are excuſed by it, from the Labour of Induration (or Hardning) and Ignition of it. Therefore take it, before all other Imperfect Bodies, in the Leſſer and Middle Work, but not in the Greater. Yet this hath a Vice beyond Jupiter, viz. that it eaſily waxeth Livid, and receives Infection from ſharp and acute things; and to eradicate that, is not an eaſie, but a profound Art.

CHAP. XIII.

Of Mars, or Iron.

BUT the Declaration of Mars, and the whole Secret thereof, is from the Work of Nature; becauſe it is a Metallick Body, very livid, a little red, pertaking of Whiteneſs, not pure, ſuſtaining Ignition, fuſible with no right fuſion, under the Hammer extenſible, and ſounding much. But Mars is hard to be handled, by reaſon of the Impotency of its fuſion, which if it be made to flow by a Medicine changing its Nature, is conjoyned to Sol and Luna, and not ſeparated by Examen, without great Induſtry: but if prepared, it is conjoyned, and not ſeparated by any Artifice, if the Nature of that Fixation be not changed by it, the Uncleanneſs only of the Mars being removed. Therefore it is a Tincture of Redneſs eaſily, but difficultly of Whiteneſs. And when it is conjoyned, it is not altered, nor doth it change the Colour of the Commixtion, but augments it in Quantity.

Therefore, among all Bodies, Jupiter is more ſplendidly and more clearly, more brightly and more perfectly transformed into a Solar, or Lunar Body. But the Work of it is of long Labour, though eaſie to be handled. Next to Jupiter is Venus choſen, of more difficult handling, but of ſhorter Labour than Jupiter. Next after Venus, Saturn hath a diminiſhed Perfection in Tranſmutation, is eaſie to be handled, but of moſt tedious labour. Yet Mars, among all the Bodies, is of leaſt Perfection in Tranſmutation, to be handled moſt difficult, and of exceeding long Labour. Therefore, whatſoever, Bodies are more remote from ſwiftneſs of Liquefaction, they are found of more difficult handling in the Work of Tranſmutation. Of this kind are Venus and Mars; but what more, more; and what are moſt remote, moſt. Alſo thoſe Bodies which partake of greater Lividneſs and Infection of the Earth, are likewiſe found to be of greater Labour, and leſs Perfection.

But whatſoever Diverſities of Perfections were a little before determined by Us, are found in the Artifice of the Leſſer, or Middle Work; yet in the Greater Work all Bodies are of one Perfection, but not all of one handling or labour. It remains yet to be known, what Facility and Difficulty of handling, and what Brevity and Length of Labour, are found radically in the Nature of Bodies. Therefore have We here in a true Diſcourſe deſcribed the Natural Principles of thoſe Bodies, which are according to the Intention of Nature; and have likewiſe in ſeveral Chapters truly expounded what We determined of thoſe Bodies; and that, according to the Opinion of thoſe Men, who could diſcern the Occult Things of Nature; and according to our own Judgment alſo, who attained to the Knowledg thereof by inceſſant Labour. But now, according as We promiſed, it is expedient to ſupply the defect of this Art in ſetting down all the Principles of this Magiſtery, in the laſt Part of this our Firſt Book; and to demonſtrate the Perfection we have ſeen, with its Cauſes, according to the Exigency thereof.

The Fourth Part of this Firſt Book, touching the Artificial Principles of this Art.

CHAP. I.

The Diviſion of Things to be ſpoken of in this Part, with an Inſinuation of Perfection to be treated of in the Second Book.

THere are two Things that are to be determined, viz. the Principles of this Magiſtery, and the Perfection of the ſame. The Principles of this Art are the Ways or Methods of its Operations, to which the Artiſt applies himſelf in the Work of this Magiſtery. Theſe Ways are indeed divers in themſelves. For one Way is Sublimation, and Deſcenſion another; and Diſtillation is alſo one Way, Calcination another, Solution another, and Coagulation another: but the ſeventh Way is Fixation, and the eighth Ceration. Of all which We purpoſe to give ſingular Declarations.

Perfection conſiſts of thoſe Things, and from the Conſiderations of thoſe by which it is attained; and from the Conſideration of things helping; and from the Conſideration of that thing which laſtly perfects; and that by which it is known, whether the Magiſtery was in Perfection or not. The Conſideration of thoſe Things, by which We come to the Comple[•]tment of the Work, is the Conſideration of the Subſtance manifeſt, and of manifeſt Colours, and of the Weight in every of thoſe Bodies to be changed, and of thoſe Bodies that are not changed from the Radix of their Nature, without that Artifice; and the Conſideration of thoſe likewiſe, in the Radix of their Nature, with the Artifice; and the Conſideration of the Principles of Bodies, according to their Profound, Occult, and Manifeſt; and according to their Nature without Artifice, and likewiſe with Artifice. For, if Bodies, and their Principles, be not known in the Profound and Manifeſt of their Nature, with Artifice, and without, what is ſuperfluous, and what is diminiſhed in them cannot be known; and our not knowing theſe would of neceſſity hinder us from ever attaining to the Perfection of their Tranſmutation.

The Conſideration of Things helping Perfection, is the Conſideration of the Natures of thoſe Things, which we ſee adhere to Bodies without Artifice, and to make mutation. And theſe are Marchaſite, Magneſia, Tutia, Antimony, and Lapis Lazuli (or the Lazure Stone.) And the Conſideration of thoſe, which without adherency cleanſe Bodies, and they are Salt, and Alloms, Nitres and Boraces, and which are of their Nature: and the Conſideration of Vitrification, cleanſing by a like Nature.

But the Conſideration of the Thing that perfects, is the Conſideration of Chooſing the pure Subſtance of Argentvive; and it is the Matter, which from the Matter of that took beginning, and of that was created. This Matter is not Argentvive in its Nature, nor in its whole Subſtance, but it is part of it: nor is it now, but when the Stone is made. For that illuſtrates and conſerves from Aduſtion, which is a ſignification of Perfection.

Laſtly, The Conſideration of the Thing, by which it is known, whether the Magiſtery be in Perfection, or not; in the Conſideration of the Cupel, Cement, Ignition, of expoſing it upon the Vapours of acute Things, Extinction, Commixtion of Sulphur burning Bodies, of Reduction after Calcination, and Suſception of Argentvive. All which, with the former, we ſhall here following declare, with their Cauſes, and with eaſie Experiences; by which you may manifeſtly know, that our Diſcourſes have not erred. And theſe Experiments will be well known to you.

CHAP. II.

Of Sublimation, why invented.

THerefore, proſecuting our purpoſe, We ſpeak of Sublimation. The Cauſe of the Invention of which, was, becauſe our Anceſtors could not, nor can We, nor ſhall they who come after Us, find any thing that can be united with Bodies, but Spirits only; or any Thing, that can contain in it ſelf the Nature of Body and Spirit; and We ſee theſe, caſt upon Bodies (without Mundation, or cleanſing of them) either not to give perfect Colours, or totally to corrupt, burn, blacken, and defile. And this, according to the Diverſity of the ſame Spirits. For ſome are burning, as Sulphur and Arſenick, and Marchaſite; and theſe indeed totally corrupt. Others burn not, as every kind of Tutia; yet theſe give imperfect Colours, and that they do for a twofold Cauſe. One is, becauſe the aduſtive unctuoſity of Sulphur (of the property of which it is) which is eaſily inflamed, and by Inflamation blackned, and conſequently blackens, is not removed or taken away from them. But the other Cauſe is Earthineſs, which likewiſe is not ſeparated from them. For in theſe, in which a perfect Colour is not given, Earthineſs is a Cauſe making it livid. Alſo Aduſtion may create a livid Colour.

Therefore, We were conſtrained to cleanſe theſe from their burning Ʋnctuoſity, and from the Earthy Superfluity, which they all have. And this We could effect by no Magiſtery, but by Sublimation only. For, when the Fire elevates, it always elevates the more ſubtile parts; therefore it ſtirs not the more Groſs. Hence it is manifeſt, that Spirits are cleanſed from their Earthineſs by Sublimation; which Terreſtriety impeded Ingreſs, and alſo gave an impure Colour. But being ſublimed, as Experience makes ſufficiently manifeſt to your Sight, they are freed from that Impurity. For you ſee them more ſplendid, and more pervious, and more eaſily to enter and penetrate the Denſity of Bodies, and not to impreſs a foul Colour, as before. Alſo that Aduſtion may be taken away by Sublimation, is manifeſt by Experiment: for Arſnick, which before its Sublimation was evil, and prone to Aduſtion, after its Sublimation ſuffers not it ſelf to be inflamed, but only recedes without Inflamation; and the ſame you may find in Sulphur, if you will make Tryal. And becauſe, in no other Things, than in Spirits, We ſaw Adherency to Bodies with Alteration, We could have no other Cauſe to be excuſed from them, but were neceſſarily conſtrained to prepare the ſame, for their purification, which is made by Sublimation. Therefore there was a neceſſary Cauſe of the Invention of this Sublimation; the whole Order of which We purpoſe to declare without Diminution.

CHAP. III.

What Sublimation is, and of the Degrees of Fire in it to be obſerved.

VVHerefore We ſay, Sublimation is the Elevation of a dry Thing by Fire, with adherency to its Veſſel. But Sublimation is diverſly made, according to the Diverſity of Spirits to be ſublimed. For the Sublimation of ſome is made with ſtrong Ignition, of others with moderate, and of ſome with a remiſs heat of Fire. Therefore, when Arſnick or Sulphur are to be ſublimed, their Sublimation muſt neceſſarily be made by remiſs Fire: becauſe they having their moſt ſubtile parts uniformly conjoyned with the Groſs, their whole Subſtance would aſcend without any Purification; yea, blackned and combuſt. Therefore, that the Artificer may ſeperate the unclean Earthy Subſtance, he hath a neceſſity to find out the Diſpoſitions of two Kinds, viz. the Proportion of the Fire, and Mundification with commixtion of the Feces: becauſe Commixtion with the Feces, comprehends the Groſs Parts, and holds them depreſſed in the bottom of the Sublimatory, not ſuffering them to aſcend.

Whence alſo it is neceſſary, that the Artificer ſhould apply to his Sublimation a threefold Degree of Fire: One proportionate in ſuch wiſe, that by it may aſcend only▪ the Altered, and more Clean, and more Lucid; until by this he manifeſtly ſee, that they are cleanſed from their Earthy Feculency. The other Degree is, that what is of the pure Eſſence of them remaining in the Feces, may be ſublimed with greater force of Fire, viz. with Ignition of the Bottom of the Veſſel, and of the Feces therein, which may be ſeen with the Eye. The third Degree of Fire is, that unto the Sublimate without the Feces, a moſt weak Fire be adminiſtred, ſo that ſcarcely any thing of it may aſcend, but that only which is the moſt ſubtile part thereof, and which in our Work is of no value; becauſe it is a thing, by Mediation of which, Aduſtion is made in Sulphurs.

Therefore, the whole Intention of Sublimation is, that the Earthineſs of the Sublimate being removed by a due adminiſtration of Fire, and likewiſe the moſt ſubtile and fumous part of it, which brings Aduſtion, with Corruption, being caſt away, to Us may be left that Part, which conſiſts in Equality, which makes ſimple fuſion upon the Fire, and without any Aduſtion flying from the Fire, without Inflamation thereof. That what is moſt ſubtile is Aduſtive, is proved by moſt evident Arguments. For Fire converts to its own Nature, every of thoſe things, which is of affinity to it; becauſe it is of affinity to every aduſtible Thing, and to the ſubtile aduſtible, it is of greater affinity; and yet more of affinity to what is more ſubtile: therefore alſo moſt of affinity to what is moſt ſubtile. Likewiſe, the ſame is proved by Experience, becauſe Sulphur or Arſenick not ſublimed, is moſt ſwiftly inflamed; but of the two, Sulphur more eaſily. Yet either, being ſublimed, is not directly inflamed, but flies away, and is extenuated without inflamation; yet with a precedent Fuſion. By theſe therefore it is manifeſt that our Diſcourſe is moſt true.

CHAP. IV.

Of the Feces of Metallick Bodies, to Be added to Spirits in their Sublimation; and of the Quantity and Quality of them.

BUT the Probation of the Adminiſtration of Feces, with their Proportion, is, that ſuch Matter be choſen, with which the Spirits to be ſublimed may beſt agree, and wherewith they may the more profoundly be mixed: becauſe that Matter, with which they are more united, is more potent in Retenſion of the Feces of Spirits to be ſublimed, than that, with which they are not ſo united. The Probation of this, is rational enough, and manifeſt. But the Probation, that the Addition of Feces is neceſſary, is, becauſe Sulphur, or Arſnick to be ſublimed, if they be not conjoyned with the Feces of ſome fixed Thing, would neceſſarily aſcend with their whole Subſtance, not cleanſed. And they, who are exerciſed in Sublimation, do by Experience know, We ſay true. Alſo the Probation, that the Adminiſtration of ſuch Feces is neceſſary (with which Things to be ſublimed may agree, and be united intimately) is, becauſe, if the Feces be not permitted with them through their leaſt parts, then the ſame happens, as if they had not Feces, viz. their whole Eſſence aſcends without any Cleanſing, as they aſcend with their whole Subſtance, without Feces: therefore the ſame muſt likewiſe happen, in things ſublimed from Feces, with which they are not united.

He that hath ſeen and known this, knows it to be true by Experience; becauſe, when he ſublimed from a Thing extraneous to the Nature of Bodies, he ſublimed in vain; ſo that he found them in no wiſe purified after their Aſcenſion. But when he ſublimed with the Calx of any Body, then he ſublimed well, and could with facility perfectly cleanſe. Therefore, the Intention of Feces is, that they be adminiſtred of the Calxes of Metals: for in them the Work of Sublimation, is eaſie, but in other Things moſt difficult. Therefore, there is not any thing, that may be ſubſtituted in their ſtead. Yet we ſay not, that Sublimation is impoſſible without the Calxes of Bodies; but that it is moſt difficult, and of long tedious Labour, and delay even to Deſperation. Nevertheleſs, in this there is ſome benefit; becauſe, what is ſublimed without Feces, or without the Calxes of Bodies, is of greater Quantity, but with Feces of leſſer. And further, what is calcined with the Calxes of Bodies, is of leaſt Quantity, but of eaſieſt and moſt ſpeedy Labour. But that which much excuſeth Us from uſing the Feces of Bodies, is every kind of Salt prepared, and of things like to it in Nature. And to Us it is alſo poſſible to make Sublimation with them of a great Quantity; becauſe Seperation of things to be ſublimed, from the Feces, is eaſily made by Solution of the Salts; which happens not in other Things.

But the Proportion of Feces is, that it be equal to the Quantity of Things to be ſublimed. For in this, even a rude Artificer cannot err. But an Artiſt of mean skill may put of Feces half the weight of Things to be ſublimed, and that will be ſufficient for him, if careful, not to err in his Work: becauſe to him that is well exerciſed and expert, the leaſt part of Feces is ſufficient. For the leſs the Quantity of Feces is, of ſo much the more and greater Exuberation, the Sublimate muſt needs be; provided, that according to the Subſtraction of Feces, a Subſtraction of Fire proportional thereunto be made. Becauſe in a ſmall Quantity a ſmall Fire ſerves for Perfection, in a great, a great; and in a greater Quantity, a greater Fire is required.

CHAP. V.

Of Governing the Fire in Sublimation.

BUT becauſe Fire is not a Thing which can be meaſured, therefore it happens, that Error is often committed in it, when the Operator is not well skilled; as well by reaſon of the Diverſity of Furnaces, and of Woods to be burned, as of Veſſels, and the Coaptation (or well joyning) of them: about all which, 'tis expedient the Artiſt ſhould be intently ſolicitous. Wherefore we give you a Common Rule: Firſt, it is expedient to remove, from things to be ſublimed, the Waterineſs only, with a very ſmall Fire; which being removed, if any thing aſcend by it, then in the beginning this Fire muſt not be augmented, that the moſt ſubtile part may (by this moſt weak Fire) be ſeperated, and put aſide, which is the Cauſe of Aduſtion. But when little or nothing ſhall aſcend (which you may prove by putting a little Cotton-weik into the hole on the top of the Alembeck) augment the Fire under it: and of how great vigour your Fire ſhould be, the Cotton-weik will ſhew. For if little of the Sublimate come forth with it, or it be clean; it argues your fire is ſmall, therefore muſt be encreaſed: but if much and unclean, then it is too great, and muſt be made leſs. Therefore, when you find the Sublimate to come forth with the Weik clean, and much, the Proportion of your Fire is then found. And whether your Sublimate ariſe clean, or unclean, is known by the aforeſaid Sign. For according to the Quantity of Cleanneſs, or Ʋncleanneſs of the Sublimate, which the Artiſt ſhall diſcern to adhere to his Cotton, he may conclude of the neceſſary proportion of his Fire in the whole Sublimation. And by this means he will find out the Rectification of the Fire, without any Fallacy.

Yet the way of Feces is better, viz. to taſte Scales of Iron, or Copper calcined. And theſe indeed, by reaſon of the Privation of evil Humidity, do eaſily imbibe Sulphur, or Arſnick, and unite them with themſelves. But the Method of this, the well experienced only know.

CHAP. VI.

Of Errors about the Quantity of Feces, and the Diſpoſition of the Furnace in ſubliming Sulphur and Arſnick, alſo of building the Furnace, and of chooſing Woods.

THerefore it is expedient We ſhould rectifie the Judgment of the Artificer in all Things, wherein he may happen to Erre through Ignorance, in Sublimation of theſe two Spirits. In order to which, We firſt ſay, that if he put in many Feces, and doth not proportionally augment the Fire, nothing of the Matter to be ſublimed will aſcend. But how he ſhould know that, is already ſufficiently declared. And if he put in a ſmall Quantity of Feces, or none of the Calx of Bodies, then (if he find not his Proportion of Fire) what is ſublimed will aſcend with its whole Subſtance. Of knowing this likewiſe I ſhewed a ſufficient way.

So in like manner, by reaſon of the Furnace he may happen to Erre. For a great Furnace gives a great Heat of Fire, and a ſmall Furnace ſmall; if the Woods for Fewel, and Ventholes for Air, be alſo proportionate. Therefore if he put a great Quantity of Matter to be ſublimed in a ſmall Furnace, he ſhall not be able to give ſufficient Fire of Elevation: and if a ſmall Quantity in a great Furnace, he will exterminate the Sublimation by exceſs of Heat. So likewiſe, a thick Furnace gives a condenſate and ſtrong Fire; but a thin Furnace, a rare and weak Fire: in both which he may likewiſe Erre. So alſo, a Furnace with large Ventholes, gives both a clear and ſtrong Fire; but with narrow and ſmall Ventholes, a weak Fire. So if the diſtance of ſpace, between the Furnace and Veſſel ſet in, be large, the Furnace then gives a great Fire; but if ſmall, a leſs. In all which the Artiſt may exceedingly Erre.

Therefore, the Rectification of theſe Errors is, that the Artiſt build his Furnace, according to the Intention of ſuch a Fire, as he ſhould have, Viz. Thick, with free Ventholes, and with a good diſtance of the Veſſel from the ſides of the Furnace, if he intend to have a great Fire: but if a mean Fire, in all theſe Things he muſt find a mean Proportion; and if a weak Fire, the ſame Proportion in them. All theſe Proportions, We will teach you to find, with the true Preparation, and determinate Experience. Therefore, if you would elevate a great Quantity of Matter to be Sublimed; firſt be provided with a Sublimatory of ſuch a Capacity, that it may contain your Matter to be elevated the height of one hands breadth above the Bottom. To this, fit your Furnace ſo, as the Aludel (or Sublimatory) may be received into it, with the diſtance of two Fingers round about the Walls, or ſides of the Furnace; which being made, to it alſo make ten Ventholes in one Proportion, equally diſtant, that there may be one Equality of Fire to all Parts thereof. Then ſet a Bar of Iron into the Furnace tranſverſe, and faſtned at each end to the ſides of the Furnace; which Bar muſt be diſtant from the Bottom of the Furnace, as far as to the Extenſion of one Hand with its Thumb, and about the thickneſs of one Finger above it, muſt the Sublimatory be firmly placed; and incloſed round about to the Furnace, which the following Deſcription demonſtrates. But then conſider whether your Furnace can well and freely diſcharge it ſelf of the Fumoſities, and the Flame can freely paſs through the whole Furnace, in the Circuit of the Aludel; if ſo, it is well proportionate; if not, it is not ſo. Then you muſt open its Ventholes, and if by that means it be mended, it is well indeed: if not, then it muſt neceſſarily be altered; becauſe the diſtance of the Veſſel from the ſides of the Furnace, is too ſmall. Therefore pare off the ſides of the Walls, and enlarge the diſtance, and then try it. And ſo continue reiterating (if need be) the enlarging of the Ventholes, and paring the Sides, until it can freely quit it ſelf of the Smoak, and the Flame be Lucid round about the Aludel, and the Smoak very freely paſs out by the Vents.

This is an Experiment (ſufficient for any Quantity to be Sublimed) of the Invention of Magnitude of the Furnace, and of Dilating the Ventholes thereof, and of the Diſtance of the Veſſel from the Walls of the ſame. But the Invention of Thickneſs of the Furnace is (if you intend a great Fire) that the ſame be equal to the extenſion of one hands breadth, with its Thumb; but if a moderate Fire be intended, then the Thickneſs muſt be to one hands breadth; and if a leſſer Fire, it muſt be formed to the Thickneſs of two Fingers.

Likewiſe Proportion is to be taken from Woods, for ſolid Woods give a ſtrong Fire, ſpongious a weak, and Dry Woods give a great Fire, and ſoon terminable. Green Woods give a little and long laſting Fire, and Solid Woods likewiſe a very durable Fire; but Spongy Woods a Fire eaſily terminable. Therefore with Conſideration of the Diſtance of the Aludel, and of the Magnitude and Smallneſs of the Ventholes, and Thickneſs and Thinneſs of the Furnace, and Diverſity of Woods premiſed, the Diverſities of all Fires come to be found out, with their true Experience. But from the greater or leſſer Cloſure of the Ventholes, or of the Door of the Furnace, by which the Woods are put in, and by the Addition and Subſtraction of them, the determinate ſpace of Time of Duration of the Fire comes to be found out, viz. So that (as by a determinate Science) it is known how long the Fire of each, in its degree, can dure in Equality. This Inveſtigation is very profitable and neceſſary for you; becauſe by it you will be eaſed of much of your Labour. Therefore exerciſe your ſelf therein, and in all Things by Us here now lately mentioned; for he who exerciſeth himſelf herein, learns; but he that doth not ſo, learns not.

CHAP. VII.

Of what Matter, and in what Form the Veſſel Aludel (or Sublimatory) is to be made.

BUt the Intention of the Veſſel Aludel is, that that it be made of thick Glaſs; for other Matter is not ſufficient, unleſs it be thick; and of like Subſtance with Glaſs. Becauſe Glaſs only, and its like (wanting Pores) is able to retain Spirits from Flight, and that they be not exterminated by the Fire; but no other Matter is fit: becauſe through the Pores of them the Spirits are gradually diminiſhed, and vaniſh. Nor are Metals ſerviceable in this Caſe, becauſe Spirits (by reaſon of their Amity and Convenience) penetrate them, and are united therewith; wherefore, paſſing through them they vaniſh, as is manifeſtly proved, by what are determined by Us. And it is found neceſſarily, and by Experience, that this We have ſaid is true. Therefore We are not by any Thing excuſed, from taking Glaſs in the Compoſition of the Aludel. In order to which,

Let a round Glaſs Veſſel, or Concha, be made, with a flat round Bottom, and in the middle of the Sides thereof a Zone, or Girdle of Glaſs ſurrounding the ſame;^[1] and above that Girdle cauſe a round Wall to be made, equidiſtant from the Wall of the Concha, to the Groſſitude of the Cover of the ſaid Concha; ſo that in this Diſtance the Wall of the Cover may freely fall without preſſure. But the Height of this Wall (above the Girdle) muſt be according to the Meaſure of the Height of the Wall of the Concha, or little more or leſs. This being done, let two Covers (or Heads) be made equal to the Meaſure of this Concavity of the two Walls; the length of both Covers muſt be equal and of one Span, and the Figure of them one alſo; viz. Pyramidal; in the ſuperior part of which Covers, two equal Holes, one in the one, and another in the other, ſhould be made ſo, as that an Hens Feather may commodiouſly be put in; as a little after will be more clearly expreſſed. Therefore the Intention of this Veſſel Concha, is, that its Cover may be moved at the pleaſure of the Artiſt, and that the Juncture might be Ingenious, ſo that through it (without any Luting) no Egreſs might be made for the Spirits. But he that can better contrive this Veſſel, may ſo do, notwithſtanding our Deſcription.

Yet in this We have a ſpecial Intention, viz. That the interior Concha, with its Sides, ſhould enter half way within its Cover. For ſeeing it is the Property of Fumes to Aſcend, not to Deſcend, by this We find the Spirits not to have Exit for Conſumption; and by reaſon of this, it excels the other Wayes, which by Our Intention We acquired. And by tryal of this, the Artiſt will ſee that We have given a true Eſtimate hereof. Alſo, the Intention is, that the Head of the Aludel ſhould be often emptied, leaſt part of what is Sublimed (the Quantity elevated being overmuch) fall down again to the Bottom, and ſo the Time of Subliming, by this reiteration, be prolonged. Likewiſe, another Intention is, that what Aſcends up in the form of Powder nigh the Hole of the Head of the Aludel, be always kept apart, from that which is found to have aſcended fuſed and denſe in ſmall Lumps, porous and clear at the Bottom thereof, with adherency to the Sides of the Veſſel; becauſe this is known to have leſs of Aduſtion, than what is found to aſcend nigh to the Hole of the Head. This is by the Superior proved manifeſtly, by Reaſon and Experience. But the Probation of the Goodneſs and Perfection of Sublimation, is already declared, viz. That it be found clear, and lucid, and not burnt with Inflamation.

Therefore this is the Perfection of the Intentions of Subliming Sulphur, and Arſnick. And if it be not ſo found, the Work muſt be repeated, with Conſideration of all its Intentions, till the Sublimate be found Perfect, as is ſaid.

CHAP. VIII.

Of the Sublimation of Mercury and Argentvive.

NOw We will determine the whole Intention of Sublimation of Argentvive. This Work is compleated, when its Terreſtreity is highly purified, and its Aquoſity wholly removed. For We are excuſed from the labour of removing its Aduſtion, becauſe it hath none. Therefore We ſay, that the Ingenuity of ſeperating its ſuperfluous Earth, is to mix it with Things wherewith it hath not affinity, and often to reiterate the Sublimation of it from them. Of this kind, is Talk, and the Calx of Egg-ſhells, and of White Marble. Likewiſe alſo Glaſs moſt ſubtily beaten, and every kind of Salt prepared. For by theſe it is cleanſed, but by other Things, having affinity with it (unleſs they be Bodies of Perfection) it is rather corrupted; becauſe all ſuch Things have a Sulphureity, which, aſcending with it in Sublimation, corrupt it. And this you find true by Experience, becauſe, when you ſublime it from Tin or Lead, you find it (after Sublimation) infected with Blackneſs. Therefore its Sublimation is better made by thoſe Things, which agree not with it; but it would be better, by Things, with which it doth agree, if they had not Sulphureity. Wherefore, this Sublimation is better made from Calx than from all other Things; becauſe that agrees little with it, and hath not Sulphureity.

But the way of removing its ſuperfluous Aquoſity, is, that when it is mixed with Calxes, from which it is to be ſublimed, it be well ground and commixed with them by Imbibition, until nothing of it appear, and afterward the Waterineſs of Imbibition removed by a moſt gentle heat of Fire; which receding, the Aquoſity of Argentvive recedes with it. Yet the Fire muſt be ſo very gentle, as that by it the whole Subſtance of Argentvive aſcend not. Therefore from the manifold Reiteration of Imbibition, with Contrition and gentle Aſſation, its greater Aquoſity is aboliſhed; the reſidue of which is removed by repeating the Sublimation often. And when you ſee it moſt White, excelling Snow in its Whiteneſs, and to adhere (as it were dead) to the Sides of the Veſſel; then again reiterate its Sublimation, without the Feces; becauſe part of it adheres fixed with the Feces, and can never by any kind of Ingenuity be ſeparated from them. Or afterward, fix part of it; as ſhall expreſly be taught you in the following: And when you have fixed it, then reiterate Sublimation of the Part remaining, that it may be likewiſe fixed.

Being fixed, reſerve it; but firſt prove it upon Fire. If it flow well, then you have adminiſtred ſufficient Sublimation, but if not, add to it ſome ſmall part of Argentvive ſublimed, and reiterate the Sublimation, till your end be anſwered; for if it hath a lucid and moſt white Colour, and be porous, than you have well ſublimed it, if not, not. Therefore in the Preparation of it made by Sublimation be not negligent; becauſe ſuch as its Mundation (or cleanſing) ſhall be, ſuch will be its Perfection, in projection of it upon any of the imperfect Bodies, and upon its own Body unprepared. Yet here note, that Some have by it formed Iron, others Lead; ſome Copper, and others Tin. Which happened to them, through negligence of Preparation; ſometimes of it alone, ſometimes of Sulphur, or of its Compeer, mixt with it. But if you ſhall by Subliming directly cleanſe and perfect this Subject, it will be a firm and perfect Tincture of Whiteneſs, the like of which is not.

CHAP. IX.

Of Sublimation of Marchaſite.

THerefore, the ſum of the Intention of Sublimation of Argentvive, being ſufficiently declared, We now come to the Sublimation of Marchaſite; of which there are two ways. One is performed without Ignition, the other with Ignition; and that is, becauſe it hath a twofold Subſtance: viz. One Sulphur, pure in its nature; the other Argentvive, mortified. The firſt is profitable, as Sulphur; the ſecond profitable, as Argentvive mortified, and moderately prepared Therefore We take this laſt, becauſe by it We are excuſed from the former Argentvive, and the labour of mortifying it.

The intire Way of Sublimation of this Subject is, that it be ground to Powder, and put into an Aludel, and its Sulphur Sublimed without Ignition; always, and that very often, removing what is Sublimed, for the aforeſaid Reaſon; and afterward augmenting the force of Fire, unto Ignition of the Aludel. And the firſt Sublimation of Marchaſite muſt be made in a Veſſel of Sublimation, and ſo long continued, as until the Sulphur be ſeparated; the Proceſs being ſucceſſively, and orderly continued, until it is manifeſt, that what was in it of Sulphur, be all paſſed out. Which may be proved by theſe manifeſt Experiments. For when its whole Sulphur ſhall be elevated, you will ſee the Colour thereof changed into moſt White, mixt with a very clear, pleaſant, and Coeleſtine Colour: Alſo you will otherwiſe prove this, becauſe what ſhall be of the Nature of Sulphur will burn and give a Flame, as Sulphur. But what ſhall be ſecondly Sublimed, after that Sublimate, will neither be inflamed, nor ſhew any Properties of Sulphur, but of Argentvive mortified in the Reiteration of Sublimation.

CHAP. X.

Of the Veſſel, in which Marchaſite may rightly be Sublimed.

THerefore We collect that, by its way of Sublimation, which is thus: A moſt ſolid and well cocted Earthen Veſſel, muſt be made to the length of half the Stature of a Man, but in breadth Diametrically, no more than that the Hand may commodiouſly enter. The Bottom of this Veſſel (which muſt be made ſo, as it may be ſeparated and conjoyned) muſt be made after the ſimilitude of a plain Diſh or Porrenger very deep; viz. from the ſuperior Orifice to the Bottom, the depth of one Hands length, with its Fingers. And from that Place, or moveable Bottom to the Head, the Veſſel muſt be very accurately Glazed within, with very thick Vitrification. And upon the Head of the Veſſel muſt be fitted an Alembeck with a wide noſe or beak: For in ſuch a Veſſel That is beſt ſublimed. Therefore the Bottom muſt be conjoyned with its Veſſel, with very firm and tenacious Luting, and the Marchaſite ſpread upon (or within) that Bottom; and then the Alembeck ſet upon the Superior Part: and ſo placed in a Furnace, of which the property is to give a ſtrong Fire, viz. of Fuſion of Silver, or Copper, which in the Sum of our Work, where we ſhall declare the Diverſities of all Inſtruments, We ſufficiently deſcribe to you. And this being done, you muſt ſurround the top of your Furnace with an Hoop or Ring of Iron flat, having a hole in its middle, proportionate to the Magnitude of the Veſſel; that the Veſſel may ſtand faſt within it. Then lute the Junctures in the Circuit of the Veſſel and the Furnace, leaſt the Fire paſſing out there, be an hindrance to the adherency of your Sublimation, leaving only four ſmall Windows, or Doors, that may be opened and ſhut in the Flat-Ring or Hoop aforeſaid, through which Coals may be put in round about the Sides of the Furnace. Likewiſe four other holes muſt be left under them, and between their Spaces, for the putting in of Coals; and ſix or eight leſſer holes, proportionate to the Magnitude of the little Finger, which muſt never be ſhut; that by them the Fire may commodiouſly free it ſelf from Fumoſities. Let theſe laſt Holes be in the Juncture of the Furnace, with the aforeſaid Hoop.

But that Furnace is of great Ignition, the Sides of which are to the height of two Cubits; and in the midſt whereof is a round Grate or Wheel bored full of very many ſmall holes cloſe together, and ſtrongly annexed to the Furnace with Luting. The Superior part of theſe holes muſt be cloſer, or ſmaller above, but wider or more open beneath, that Aſhes or Coals may the more freely fall from them, and the Grate be left continually open for the more free Reception of the Air. For the free and ample admiſſion of the Air through the Inferior Holes, is one Cauſe of great Ignition by the Furnace. Therefore be exerciſed therein, and you will find out the Secret. But the Cauſe of ſo great Length of the Veſſel, is, that a great part of it may ſtand up, and be extended beyond the Fire, and be kept cool, that the Fumes of the Sublimate aſcending may find a Place of cooling, and adhere; and not find a way of Flight, and be exterminated. This he well knows, who hath ſublimed in ſhort Sublimatories, wherein he found nothing of the Sublimate; becauſe, by reaſon of the Shortneſs of his Veſſel, the Fire was equal in heat through the whole of the ſame. Therefore, the Matter to be ſublimed, always ſtood converted into the Subſtance of Fume, and could not any where adhere, but gradually vaniſh through the Pores of the Veſſel.

Wherefore, in ſubliming all Things, the Veſſel muſt the greater part of it be extended high above the Fire, that the ſame extended Part may ſerve for a Refrigeratory. But the Cauſe of Vitrification, or Glazing the Veſſel, is, that the aſcending Fumes, in the place of their Aſcenſion, may not find the Sides of the Aludel porous, and penetrating them, take their Flight. Therefore the Place of their Aſcenſion is vitrified, that the Way of their Flight may be ſtopped. But the Bottom of the Veſſel is not Glazed, becauſe it ſtands in the Fire, which would melt its Vitrification; and that melting, both the Bottom it ſelf, and Matter to be ſublimed, would alſo be melted, and turned into Glaſs. For the Property of Glaſs is to overcome all Things, and convert them to it ſelf. Therefore, all theſe Things, and their Cauſes, being conſidered, Let your Fire be continued under the Veſſel, until you be aſſured by infallible Experience, the whole is aſcended. The Experiment of this is, the putting in a Rod of Earth well burned (having a ſmall hole in the end, reaching almoſt to the middle thereof, and anſwering to the quantity of the little Finger) nigh the Matter of which the Sublimation is made. And if any thing aſcending adhere to the hole, the Whole is not ſublimed; but if not, then the Sublimation is ended. By this ſame Exerciſe, in all Things to be ſublimed, you may be aſſured of the End of your Work.

CHAP. XI.

Of the Sublimation of Magneſia and Tutia: Alſo of Imperfect Bodies, and of the Addition of Matter elevating them.

THe Intention of the Sublimation of Magneſia and Tutia, is the ſame with the Intention of the laſt Sublimation of Marchaſite. For all theſe cannot be ſublimed without Ignition. Therefore they all have one Intention, with the ſame Cauſes, and the ſame Experiences; and that hath one General Order. Becauſe it neceſſarily happens, that whatſoever are ſublimed with Ignition, muſt be ſublimed without Feces; for in themſelves they have enough, yea, too much Feces: the ſign of which is the difficulty of their Sublimation.

Likewiſe all Bodies diminiſhed from Perfection, are ſublimed in the ſame Order, and no difference of diverſity is, unleſs that in Bodies the Fire of Sublimation muſt be more vehement than in Magneſia, Marchaſite, and Tutia. And ſo likewiſe, Bodies, in their Sublimations, are not diverſified, except that ſome need the adjunction of ſomething elſe to elevate them; others not. But there is one ſpecial Conſideration, by Experience found good in the Sublimation of Bodies; and that is, that no great Quantity of the Body to be ſublimed, be at once put into the Bottom of the Veſſel; becauſe a great abundance of Matter impedes Sublimation. Alſo the Bottom of the Sublimatory ſhould be flat, not concave; that the Body equally and thinly ſpread upon the Bottom, may equally and much be elevated in all its Parts.

Bodies needing the Admixtion of Matters elevating, are Venus and Mars, by reaſon of the ſlowneſs of their Fuſion. Therefore Venus needs Tutia, and Mars Arſnick; and with theſe they are eaſily elevated, becauſe they moſtly agree with them. Wherefore after Conſideration of them, let Sublimation be made as in Tutia, and in things like to it in Sublimation; and let their Sublimation be diſpoſed in the ſame Order, with its Cauſes and Experiences.

CHAP. XII.

Of Deſcenſion, and the way of Purifying by Paſtills.

THe Intentions of Sublimation, with all their Cauſes, being already declared, it remains, that We now ſhew the way of Deſcenſion, with its Cauſes, and determinate and compleat Order likewiſe. For there was a threefold Cauſe of its Invention. One, that when any Matter is included in that Veſſel, which is called a Chymical Deſcenſory, after its Fuſion it may deſcend through the Hole thereof, and by its Deſcent We be aſſured that it hath admitted Fluxing. Another Cauſe, that weak Bodies may by [•]t be preſerved from Combuſtion, after Reduction from their Calxes. For when We attempt to reduce weak Bodies from their Calxes, We cannot reduce all their whole Subſtance at one time. Therefore, if that Part, which is firſt reduced into Body, ſhould expect the Reduction of the whole, a great Quantity of it would vaniſh by the Fire. Wherefore it was neceſſarily deviſed, that one part, ſo ſoon as reduced, might be taken from the Fire. And this is done by a Deſcenſory. The third Cauſe of the Invention of it, was the Depuration of Bodies from every thing extraneous. For the Body deſcends in Flux clean, and leaves every thing that is extraneous in the Concavity thereof.

Therefore Deſcenſion being invented for theſe three neceſſary Cauſes, We will now determine the Method of it, with its Inſtrument firſt denoted with its Cauſes. In order to which, We ſay, that the Form of it muſt be ſuch, as its Bottom may be pointed, and the Sides of it without Roughneſs, equally terminating into the aforeſaid Acuity, or Point of the Bottom; and its Cover (if it need any) muſt be made in the likeneſs of a plain or flat Diſh, and well fitted to it; and the Veſſel with its Cover muſt be made of good and firm Earth, not eaſily cracking in the Fire. Then put in the Matter, which you would have to deſcend, upon round Rods made of like Earth, and ſo placed as they may be more nigh the Top than Bottom of the Veſſel. Then covering the Veſſel and luting the Juncture, ſet it within a Fire of Coals, and blow it until the whole Matter deſcend into a ſubjacent Veſſel. Yet (if the Matter be of difficult Fuſion) it may be put upon a Table plain, or of ſmall Concavity, from which it may eaſily deſcend, by inclining the Head of the Deſcenſory, when it is in Flux. For by this Bodies are purified.

But they are better purified by Paſtills, which way of Purification is the ſame with the way of Purifying of the Deſcenſory. Therefore by it We are excuſed from that: For it holds the Feces of Bodies, as a Deſcenſory and better; therefore We declare the Way of it. We take a Body, of which the Intention is to be cleanſed, and that We reduce to moſt fine Grains, or Filings, or into a Calx (which is more perfect) and mix with it ſome other Calx, of which the Intention is not to be melted; and then We make the Body to flow. For We by that, often repeated, find Bodies to be cleanſed, but not with perfect Mundification, which We know to be Perfection; yet with a profitable Mundification, that Bodies capable of Perfection, may the better and more perfectly be by it transformed: For there is to be an Adminiſtration preceding that Transformation; but every Adminiſtration ſhall ſufficienly be declared to you in the following. Here We only give you a Deſcription of the Deſcenſory.

CHAP. XIII.

Of Diſtilation and its Cauſes, and of Three kinds of the ſame. viz, by Alembeck, by a Deſcenſory, and by Filter.

THerefore, following Our Purpoſe, 'tis convenient. We ſhould ſpeak of Diſtillation, with its Cauſes; Diſtillation is an Elevation of aqueous Vapours in their Veſſel. And Diſtillation is diverſified. For ſome Diſtillations are by Fire, and ſome without Fire. Thoſe made by Fire are of two kinds; one, which is by Elevation into the Alembeck; and the other by Chymical Deſcenſory, by mediation of which the Oyl of Vegetables is extracted.

The Cauſe why Diſtillation was invented, and the general Cauſe of the Invention of every Diſtillation, is the Purification of Liquid Matter from its turbulent Feces, and Conſ[•]rvation of it from Putrefaction. For We ſee a Thing Diſtilled (by what kind ſoever of Diſtillation) to be rendred more Pure, and to be better preſerved from Putrefaction. But the ſpecial Cauſe of that Diſtillation, which is made by aſcent into the Alembeck, is the deſire of acquiring Water Pure without Earth. The Experience of which is, that We ſee Water ſo Diſtilled, to have no Feculency. The Cauſe of the Invention of Pure Water, was the Imbibition of Spirits, and of clean Medicines. As for Example, When We need Imbibition, We muſt have pure Water, which leaves no Feces after its Reſolution; by which Feculency, Our Medicines and cleanſed Spirits might be infected and corrupted. But the Cauſe of that Invention, which is made by Deſcent, was the Extraction of Oyl pure in its Nature; becauſe by Aſcent, Oyl cannot be had in its Combuſtible Nature. And ſuch an Inquiſition alſo was, that the Colour which is permixed with its Subſtance, might be had; for this may be helpful in the Caſe. But Diſtillation, which is made by Filter, is performed without Fire; and the Cauſe of its Invention was Clearneſs of the Water only.

Now We will ſhew you the Methods of Diſtillations, with their Cauſes. Therefore of that which is made by Aſcent, there is a twofold Way or Method. For one is performed in an Earthen Pan full of Aſhes; but the other with Water in its Veſſel, with Hay or Wool, orderly ſo diſpoſed, that the Cucurbit, or Diſtillatory Alembeck, may not be broken before the Work be brought to Perfection. That which is made by Aſhes, is performed with a greater, ſtronger, and more acute Fire; but what is made by Water, with a mild and equal Fire. For Water admits not the Acuity of Ignition, as Aſhes doth. Therefore, by that Diſtillation, which is made in Aſhes, Colours, and the more groſs Parts of the Earth, are wont to be elevated; but by that which is made in Water, the Parts more ſubtile, and without Colour, and more approaching to the Nature of ſimple Waterineſs, are uſally elevated. Therefore more ſubtile Separation is made by Diſtillation in Water, than by Diſtilling in Aſhes. This he knows to be true, who when he had Diſtilled Oyl by Aſhes, received his Oyl ſcarcely altered into the Recipient; but willing to ſeparate the Parts thereof, was by neceſſity forced to Diſtill it by Water. And then by reiterating that Labour, he ſeparated the Oyl into its Elemental Parts; ſo that from a moſt red Oyl, he extracted a moſt white and moſt ſerene Water, the whole Redneſs thereof remaining in the Bottom of the Veſſel.

Therefore by this Magiſtery, We muſt neceſſarily come to the determinate Separation of all the Elements, of every Vegetable Thing, and of that which from the Vegetable proceeds to a Being, and of every like Thing: but by that, which is made by Deſcent, We may attain the Oyl of every Thing determinately, viz. of all Vegetables, and of their Like: and by that, which is made by Filter, We acquire the Clearneſs of every Liquorous Thing. Yet all theſe Things are known, even to Men knowing little or nothing; but if any Man knoweth them not, he knows nothing of this Magiſtery. Therefore let him practice in the Exerciſe and he will find it out.

The Diſpoſition of that which is made by Aſhes, is, that a ſtrong Earthen-Pan be taken and fitted to the Furnace, like to the aforeſaid Furnace of Sublimation, with the ſame Diſtance from the Sides of the Furnace, and with like Ventholes; upon the Bottom of which Pan ſifted Aſhes muſt be put to the thickneſs of one Finger, and upon the Aſhes the Veſſel of Diſtillation ſet, and covered round about with the ſame, almoſt as high as to the Neck of the Alembeck. This being done, put in the Matter, which you intend ſhall be Diſtilled. Laſtly, Cover the Veſſel with its Alembeck, the Neck of which muſt incloſe the Neck of the inferior Cucurbit, even up to the curved Channel of the Alembeck, leaſt what is to be Diſtilled ſhould flie away; and lute the Alembeck firmly with its Cucurbit, and give Fire to it, until it begin to Diſtill. But the Alembeck and its Cucurbit, muſt be both of Glaſs. And the Fire muſt be increaſed according to the Exigency of the Diſtillation, until it be found, by urging the Fire, that all which ſhould be Diſtilled is Diſtilled off.

The Diſpoſition of the ſecond Intention of Diſtillation, which is made by Water, is like to this, in the Veſſel and Alembeck: yet it differs in this, viz. That in this, muſt be taken an Iron or Braſs Pan, and that fitted to the Furnace, as is ſaid. Afterwards, upon the Bottom of the Pan, within muſt be laid a Bed of Hay, or Wooll, or other ſuch like Matter, to the thickneſs of three Fingers, that the Cucurbit may not be broken; and with the ſame Hay, or like Things, the Cucurbit muſt be covered round about, almoſt as high as to the Neck of the Alembeck; and upon them many ſmall Sprigs, or Sticks ſpread, and upon the Sticks weighty Stones laid, which with their weight may depreſs the Hay, or other like Matter, with the Cucurbit and Alembeck, and firmly and ſteddily hold them depreſſed upon the Bottom of the Pan, that they be not moved, or raiſed by the Water; and that ſtirring be the Cauſe of breaking the Glaſs, and Deſtruction of the Matter to be Diſtilled. Afterwards, upon the Hay and Sticks depreſſed with the Stones, pour Water until the Pan be full. This being done, put Fire under and Diſtil, until all be Diſtilled off.

The Diſpoſition of that, which is made by Deſcent, is, that a Glaſs Deſcenſory be made, with its Cover, and that put in which is to be Diſtilled, and then the Cover luted on; and Fire made upon the Top, or over it: for its Diſtillation deſcends.

The Diſpoſition of that, which is made by Filter, is, that the Liquor to be Diſtilled be put into a Stone Concha, and the wider part of the Filter put into the ſaid Liquor, even to the Bottom of the Concha, but the narrower part of it hang out over the Orifice of the ſaid Veſſel. And under that end of the Filter muſt be ſet another Veſſel for receiving the Diſtillation. Therefore, when the Filter begins to Diſtill, the Water with which it was moiſtned will firſt Diſtill off; which ceaſing, the Liquor to be Diſtilled ſucceeds. Which Liquor if it be not as yet ſerene, it muſt ſo often be put into the Concha again, and re-diſtilled, as until it be Diſtilled moſt ſerene.

But all theſe Operations, which are eaſie, need no great Probation; therefore I am willing to paſs that over in Silence. This is the Deſcription of all the Veſſels of every Diſtillation, here now compleated by Us.

CHAP. IV.

Of Calcination, as well of Bodies as of Spirits, with its Cauſes and Methods.

AFter the Narration of Diſtillation, We proceed to Diſcourſe of Calcination. Calcination is the Pulverization of a Thing by Fire, through Privation of the Humidity conſolidating the Parts. The Cauſe of the Invention of it is, that the aduſtive, corrupting and defiling Sulphureity, may be aboliſhed by Fire. Yet it is diverſified, according to the Diverſity of Things to be Calcined. For Bodies are Calcined, and Spirits are Calcined; yea, other Things alſo extraneous from the nature of theſe; yet with a diverſe Intention. And ſeeing there are imperfect Bodies of two kinds; viz. Hard, as Venus and Mars, and Soft, as Jupiter and Saturn; all which are Calcined: there was a neceſſity of Calcining them with a divers Intention, viz. General and Special. They are all Calcined with one general Intention; which is, that their corrupting and defiling Sulphureity may be aboliſhed by Fire. For ſo every aduſtive Sulphureity, which could not be removed without Calcination, is burnt away from every thing whatſoever. And becauſe the Body it ſelf is ſolid, and by reaſon of that ſolidity, the occult Sulphureity concealed within the Continuity of the Subſtance of Argentvive, is defended from Aduſtion: therefore it was neceſſary to ſeparate the Continuity thereof, that the Fire freely comeing to every of its leaſt Parts, might burn the Sulphureity from it, and the Continuity of Argentvive in the Body, not defend it.

Likewiſe, the common Intention in it, is Depuration of the Earthineſs: For it is found, that Bodies are cleanſed by reiterated Calcination and Reduction; as We ſhall ſhew in the following.

Special Calcination is of ſoft Bodies, and with theſe two Intentions, that through it there may be an Intention of hardning and firing; which is attained to by an Ignitious Repetition of Calcination upon them; of which it is expedient We ſhould Diſcourſe, in the following Treatiſe. For We find that they are manifeſtly hardned by that Ingenuity.

But the Cauſe of the Invention of the Calcination of Spirits, is, that they may the better be fixed, and be the more eaſily diſſolved into Water. Becauſe every kind of Things Calcined is more fixed than the not Calcined, and of eaſier Solution; and becauſe the Parts of the Calcinate more ſubtiliated by Fire, are more eaſily mixed with Waters, and turned into Water. And this you will find ſo to be, if you be experienced. The Calcination of other Things, is ſubſervient to the Exigency of the Preparation of Spirits and Bodies; of which Preparation We ſhall ſpeak more at large in the following. But any of theſe Things, or ſuch as theſe, is not of Perfecti[•]n.

Therefore the way or Method of Calcination is diverſe, by reaſon of the Diverſity of things to be calcined. For Bodies are otherwiſe calcined, than Spiri[••] or other Things. And Bodies diverſe each from other, are likewiſe diverſly calcined. For ſoft Bodies have one General way, according to the Intention of Calcination, viz. that both may be calcined by Fire only; and by the Acuity of Salt prepared or not prepared, both likewiſe. Therefore, the firſt Calcination by Fire only, is thus prepared: You muſt have a Veſſel of Iron or Earth, formed after the ſimilitude of a Porringer, the ſtructure of which muſt be very firm, and fitted to the Furnace of Calcination, in ſuch wiſe, that under it the Coals may be caſt in and blowed. Theſe being thus ordered, you muſt caſt in Lead or Tin into your Veſſel, which muſt be firmly ſet upon a Trivet of Iron, or on three Stone-Columes, and likewiſe ſurely faſtned to the Walls of its Furnace, with three or four Stones ſet in ſtiff between the Furnace-ſides and the Veſſel, that it may not be ſtirred. The Figure of the Furnace muſt be the ſame with the Form of the Furnace of great Ignition, of which mention is made above, and ſhall more fully be declared in the Following. Therefore in that Furnace kindle Fire under your Veſſel of Sublimation, ſufficient for Fuſion of the Body to be calcined. And when the Body ſhall, by heat of Fire, contract a Black skin upon it, gather that off from it by a Slice, or other fit Inſtrument of Iron or Stone, that will not permit it ſelf to be burnt to the Infection of the Calx. This drawing off, or taking off the Skin, muſt ſo long be continued, as until the whole Body be converted to Powder. If it be Saturn, a greater Fire muſt be adminiſtred, until the Calx be changed into a Colour moſt yellow or red. If it be Jupiter, it muſt likewiſe be expoſed and continued in the Fire, until the Calx be changed into compleat Whiteneſs.

Yet in this We would have the Artificer to be well adviſed, that Saturn is eaſily reduced from its Calx; but Jupiter moſt difficulty. Therefore, let him be careful, that he err not in expoſing Saturn, after its firſt Pulverization to too great a Fire, and ſo reduce the Calx into Body, before it is perfected. For he needs Temperance of Fire, and that leiſurely augmented by degrees, with Caution, until it be confirmed in its Calx; proving not ſo eaſily reducible, that a greater Fire may be adminiſtred to it, for compleatly perfecting its Calx. Likewiſe, he muſt be careful, that he err not in Jupiter, by reaſon of its difficult Reduction; ſo, that when he intends to reduce its Calx, he find it not reduced, but in its former condition, or turned into Glaſs; and thence he conclude its Reduction impoſſible. For We ſay, if a great Fire be not adminiſtred, in the Reduction of Tin, it reduceth not; and if a great Fire be adminiſtred, it doth not neceſſarily happen, that it ſhall be reduced; but 'tis poſſible it may be converted to Glaſs. And that is, becauſe Jupiter, in the profundity of its Nature, hath the fugitive Subſtance of Argentvive included: which, if kept long in Fire, flies away, and leaves the Body deprived of Humidity; ſo that it is found more apt for Vitrification, than to be converted to the Fuſion of a Metallick Body. For every Thing deprived of its proper Humidity, gives no other than a Vitrificatory Fuſion. Whence it neceſſarily follows, that the Artiſt muſt haſten to reduce it ſwiftly, with the ſpeedy force of a violent Fire: for otherwiſe it is no[•] reduced. Therefore let him practice therein, and he will come to the Knowledg thereof.

The way of Calcination of theſe two Bodies, which is performed by the Acuity of Salt, is, that Quantity after Quantity of Salt be very often caſt upon them in their Fuſion, and permixed by much agitation with a Rod of Iron over the Fire, until by mixtion of the Salt they be turned into Aſhes. And afterward, by the ſame way of Perfection, the Calxes of them are perfected, with their Conſiderations. But in this alſo there is difference in the Calcination of theſe two Bodies. For Lead, with the firſt labours of Calcinatitn, is more eaſily converted to Powder than Tin; yet the Calx of it is not more eaſily perfected, than the Calx of Tin. The Cauſe of this Diverſity is, becauſe Saturn hath a more fixed Humidity than Jupiter.

Of Venus and Mars, the way of Calcination is one; yet diverſe from the former, by reaſon of the difficulty of their Liquefaction. And it is this, either of theſe Bodies reduced into Plates, muſt be heat red hot, but not melted. For, by reaſon of the great Quantity of Earthineſs in them, and the large Meaſure they have of aduſtive and flying Sulphureity, they are eaſily this way deduced into Calx. And that therefore is, becauſe by reaſon of much Earthineſs, mixt with the Subſtance of Argentvive, the due continuation of Argentvive is diſturbed. Therefore Poroſity is cauſed i[•] them, through which the Sulphureity paſſing may fly away; and the Fire, by that Means having acceſs to it, burn and elevate the ſame. Whence it comes to paſs, that the Parts are made more rare, and through Diſcontinuity of the Rarity converted into Aſhes. The Experience of this is manifeſt, becauſe Plates of Copper expoſed to Ignition, yield a Sulphureous Flame, and cauſe pulverizable Scales in their Superficies. And that therefore is, becauſe from the Parts more nigh, a more eaſie combuſtion of Sulphur muſt neceſſarily be made.

But the Form of the Furnace of this Calcination, is the ſame with the Form of the Furnace of Diſtillation, only that this muſt have one great hole left in the Crown of it, whence it may free it ſelf from Fumoſities. And the Site of Things to be calcined, muſt be in the midſt of the Furnace, that the Fire may have free acceſs to them round about. But the Veſſel muſt be of Earth, made in the form of a Porring[•]r or deep Diſh.

The way of Calcination of Spirits, is, that to them approaching to Fixation be adminiſtred Fire, gradually, and very leiſurely increaſed, that they fly not, until they be able to ſuſtain the greateſt Fire. Their Veſſel muſt be round, every way cloſed, and their Furnace the ſame with this laſtly mentioned. With a like Furnace, and like Veſſel, every Thing is likewiſe calcined. Yet We are excuſed from greater Labour, than what muſt be imployed in preventing their Flight: becauſe other Things (unleſs Spirits, and what is nigh to the Nature of Spirits) fly not.

CHAP. XV.

Of Solution, and its Cauſe.

NOW We intend to ſpeak of Solution. Solution is the Reduction of a Dry Thing into Water. Therefore, We ſay, that every Perfection of Solution is compleated with ſubtile Waters, and eſpecially the acute, and ſharp, and ſaline Waters, having no Feces; as is Diſtilled Vinegar, Sowre Grapes, Pears of very great ſharpneſs, Pomegranets, and the like of theſe diſtilled.

The Cauſe of the Invention of this, was the Subtiliation of thoſe Things, which neither have Fuſion nor Ingreſs; by which was loſt the great Ʋtility of fixed Spirits, and of thoſe Things which are of their Nature. For every Thing which is diſſolved, muſt neceſſarily have the Nature of Salt, or of Allom, or of their like. And the Nature of them is, that they give Fuſion before their Vitrification. Therefore Spirits diſſolved will likewiſe give like Fuſion. And ſince they in their own Nature, agree with Bodies, and each with other, Fuſion being acquired, they muſt by that neceſſarily penetrate Bodies, and penetrating tranſmute the ſame. But they neither penetrate, nor traſmute, without our Magiſtery, which is this, viz. that after Solution and Coagulation of the Body, to it be adminiſtred ſome one of the Spirits purified, not fixed; and that ſo often ſublimed from it, as until it remain with it, and give to it a more ſwift Fuſion, and conſerve the ſame in Fuſion from Vitrification. For the Nature of Spirits is, not to be vitrified, and to preſerve the Mixture from Vitrification, as long as they are in it. Therefore the Spirit, which more retains the Nature of Spirits, more defends from Vitrification. But a Spirit only purified, more preſerves than a Spirit purified, calcined, and diſſolved: therefore there is a neceſſity of mixing ſuch a Spirit with the Body. For from theſe reſults good Fuſion, and Ingreſs, and firm Fixation.

But We are able to prove, by the Works of Nature, that Things only holding the Nature of Salts, Alloms, and the like, are Soluble. For conſidering, We find in all her Works no other things to be diſſolved, but them. Therefore, whatſoever are diſſolved, they muſt neceſſarily be diſſolved by their Nature. Yet, becauſe We ſee all Things truly calcined, to be diſſolved, by Reiteration of Calcination, and Solution; therefore, We by that prove, that all Calcinates approach to the Nature of Salts, and Alloms, therefore muſt neceſſarily be themſelves attended with thoſe properties. But the way of Solution is twofold, viz by hot Dung, and by boyling or hot Water. Of both which there is one Intention, and one Effect.

The Way of Diſſolving by Dung, is, that the Calcinate be put into a Glaſs Veſſel, and upon the ſame poured of diſtilled Vinegar, or the like, double its weight, and the Mouth of the Veſſel well cloſed, that nothing may reſpire; and then this Matter, with its Veſſels, ſet in Hot Dung to be diſſolved, and the Solution afterwards by Filter ſeperated. But the not diſſolved muſt be again calcined, and after Calcination again in like manner diſſolved, until by repeating the Labour, the whole be diſſolved.

The Way of Diſſolving by boyling Water, is more ſwift, and it is thus: The calcinate muſt in like manner be put into its Veſſel, with Vinegar poured on it as before, and the Orifice well cloſed, that nothing expire; then the Veſſel muſt be ſet, buryed in Straw, into a Pan full of Water, as in the Way of Diſtillation by Water, We before appointed; and afterward Fire kindled under it, until the Water boyl for an hour. This being done, the Solution muſt be filtred, and kept apart. But the not diſlſolved, again calcined, and again in the ſame manner diſſolved; until by repeating the Labour, the whole be diſſolved.

CHAP. XVI.

Of Coagulation, and its Cauſes, and of diverſe ways of coagulating Mercury; and of diſſolved Medicines.

COagulation is the Reduction of a Thing Liquid, to a Solid Subſtance, by Privation of the Humidity. But there is a twofold Cauſe of its Invention: one is, the Induration, or Hardning of Argentvive; the other Cauſe of Invention is, the freeing of Medicines diſſolved, from the Waterineſs with them admixed. Therefore it is diverſified, according to the Multiplicity of things to be coagulated. For Argentvive needs one Coagulation, but diſſolved Medicines another. Yet there is a twofold Coagulation of Argentvive. One, by waſhing away its whole innate Humidity from it: the other, by Inſpiſſation (or thickning) of its Humidity, until it be hardned. Yet it is a moſt difficult and laborious Work to congeal it, even with the profoundneſs of clear ſighted Induſtry. Therefore We will declare the whole Ingenuity of its Coagulation.

Some thought the Ingenuity of its Coagulation was to keep it long in a temperate Fire: who when they ſuppoſed they had coagulated it, after removal of it from the Fire, found the ſame to flow, as before. By which they were driven to amazement and wonder, ſtrenuouſly arguing, that this was not poſſible to be effected. But Others, from Natural Principles, ſuppoſing that every Humidity muſt neceſſarily by heat of Fire be converted into Dryneſs, endeavoured with Inſtancy of Perſeverance to continue the Conſervation of it in Fire; and by this Continuation, they at laſt came to this, viz. that ſome of theſe Men converted it into a White-Stone, Others into a Red, and others into a Citrine or yellow Stone, which neither had Fuſion, nor Ingreſs: and the Cauſe of theſe Diverſities they could not judg of, therefore caſt it away.

Others endeavoured to coagulate it with Medicines, and this they effected not; but it proved a Deluſion to them; either becauſe they coagulated it not, or becauſe it was inſenſibly extenuated; or their Coagulation was not in the form of any Body, And the Cauſe of the Diverſity of theſe Things, they knew not. Others, compounding Artificial Medicines, coagulated it in Projection; but their Coagulation was not profitable, becauſe they converted it to an imperfect Body: and the Cauſe of this likewiſe could not ſee. Therefore 'tis expedient We ſhould declare the Cauſes of theſe Things, that the Artificer may come to the Magiſtery of its Coagulation.

Wherefore, as is already ſufficiently declared by Us, the Subſtance of Argentvive is uniform; wherefore it is not poſſible, in ſhort ſpace of time, by keeping it in a conſtantly continued Fire, to remove the Aquoſity thereof. Therefore too much haſte was the Cauſe of the firſt Error. And being of a ſubtile Subſtance, it recedes from the Fire; therefore exceſſive Fire is the Cauſe of the Error of thoſe Men from whom it flies. It is eaſily mixed with Sulphur, Arſnick, and Marchaſite, by reaſon of Community in their Nature. Therefore it appears to be coagulated by them; not into the form of a Body, but of Argentvive mixed with Lead. For theſe, being fugitive, cannot retain it in the conteſt of Fire, until it can attain to the Nature of a Body: but through the Impreſſion of Fire, they fly with it, therefore that is the Cauſe of the Error of thoſe who ſo coagulate. Likewiſe, Argentvive hath much Humidity united to it ſelf, which cannot poſſibly be ſeparated from it, unleſs by Violence of Fire warily adhibited, with Conſervation of it it in its own Fire. And they, by augmenting this its own Fire, as far as it can bear, take away the Humidity of Argentvive, leaving no part ſufficient for Metallick Fuſion; which being taken away, it cannot be melted. And this is the Cauſe of their Error, who coagulate it into a Stone not fuſible.

In like manner, Argentvive hath Sulphureous Parts naturally mixt with it; yet ſome Argentvive hath more, others leſs, which to remove by Artifice is impoſſible. Therefore, ſeeing it is the property of Sulphur, with Argentvive, to create a red or citrine Colour (according to its Meaſure) the ablation, or removal of that being made, the property of Argentvive is by Fire to give a white Colour. This is therefore the Cauſe of the variety of Colours after its Coagulation into a Stone. Likewiſe it hath the Earthineſs of Sulphur mixt with it, by which all its Coagulations muſt neceſſarily be infected. And this is the Cauſe of the Error of thoſe, who coagulate it into a perfect Body. Therefore it happens, from the Diverſity of the Medicines of its Coagulation, that diverſe Bodies are creaated in its Coagulation; and from the diverſity of that likewiſe, what is to be coagulated. For, if either the Medicine, or that, have a Sulphur not fixed, the Body created of it muſt needs be ſoft. But if fixed, the Body muſt neceſſarily be hard. Alſo, if White, white; and if Red, red. And if the Sulphur be remiſs from White, or Red, the Body likewiſe muſt needs be remiſs; and if Earth, the Body is imperfect, if not, not ſo. Alſo every not fixed Sulphur creates a livid Body; but the fixed, as much as in it lies, not. And the pure Subſtance of it creates a pure Body, the not pure, not ſo.

Alſo the ſame Diverſity doth in like manner happen in Argentvive alone, without the Commixtion of Sulphur, by reaſon of the Diverſity of Mundification, and Preparations of it in Medicines. Therefore an Illuſion happens from the part of the Diverſity of the Medicines; ſo that ſometimes in the Coagulation of it, it is made Lead, ſometimes Tin, ſometimes Copper, and ſometimes Iron: which happens by reaſon of Impurity. And ſometimes Gold or Silver is made thence; which muſt needs proceed from Purity, with Conſideration of the Colours.

But Argentvive is coagulated by the frequent Precipitation of it with violence to the forcible Heat of ſtrong Fire. For the Aſperity of Fire eaſily removes it Aquoſity. And this work is beſt done by a Veſſel of a great length, in the ſides of which it may find place to cool and adhere, and (by reaſon of the length of the Veſſel) to abide, and not flye, until it can be again precipitated to the Fiery Bottom of the ſame; which muſt always ſtand very hot, with great Ignition: and the ſame Precipitation be continued, till it be totally fixed. It is alſo coagulated with long and conſtant Retention in Fire, in a Glaſs Veſſel with a very long Neck and round Belly; the Orifice of the Neck being kept open, that the Humidity may vaniſh thereby. Alſo it is coagulated by Medicine convenient for it: and that we will declare to you more plainly in the following. And here likewiſe, that we may declare our compleat Intention relating to it, according as We have found by Experience, We ſay, that the Medicine of it is that, which moſt nearly adheres to it in its profundity; and before its flight is commixed with it throughout its leaſt parts. Therefore there is a neceſſity of collecting that from Things convenient to it, or agreeing with the ſame. Of this kind are all Bodies, and Sulphur and Arſnick.

But, becauſe We ſee not any of the Bodies in its Nature to coagulate it, but it to fly from them, of how great conveniency ſoever they be; We have therefore conſidered, that no Body adheres to it in its inmoſt parts. Wherefore, that Medicine muſt needs be of a more ſubtile Subſtance, and more liquid Fuſion, than Metals themſelves are. Alſo, by Spirits, remaining in their Nature, We ſee not a Coagulation of it to be made, that is firm and ſtable; but fugitive and of much Infection. Which indeed happens, by reaſon of the flight of Spirits; but the other, from the Commixtion of the aduſtible and earthy Subſtance of them. Therefore, hence it is manifeſtly evident, that from whatſoever Thing the Medicine thereof is extracted, that muſt neceſſarily be of a moſt ſubtile and moſt pure Subſtance, of its own Nature adhering to it, and of Liquefaction moſt eaſie, and thin as Water; and alſo be fixed againſt the violence of Fire. For this will coagulate it, and convert the ſame either into a Solar or Lunar Nature.

Thus we have ſhewed you the Properties of the Medicine, by which you may attain to it; and this we have determined in a very proper Speech. Therefore ſtudiouſly exerciſe your ſelf thereabout, and you will find it. But that you may not blame Us, as if We had not ſufficiently ſpoken thereof, We ſay, that this Medicine is extracted from Metallick Bodies themſelves, with their Sulphur, or Arſnick prepared: likewiſe from Sulphur alone, or Arſnick prepared; and it may be extracted from Bodies only. But from Argentvive alone it is more eaſily, and more nearly, and more perfectly found; becauſe Nature more amicably embraceth its proper Nature, and in it more rejoyceth, than in an extraneous Nature. And in it is facility of Extraction of the Subſtance thereof, ſeeing it already hath a Subſtance ſubtile in Act. But the Ways of acquiring this Medicine are by Sublimation, as is by us ſufficiently declared. And the way of fixing it, is likewiſe ſhewed in its Chapter. But the way of coagulating Things diſſolved, is by a Glaſs placed in Aſhes up to its Neck, and temperate Fire adminiſtred thereunto, until their Aquoſity vaniſh.

CHAP. XVII.

Of Fixation, and its Cauſes, and of the diverſe ways of fixing Bodies and Sprits.

FIxation is the convenient diſpoſing a Fugitive Thing, to abide and ſuſtain the Fire. The Cauſe of the Invention of this Fixation, is (that every Tincture, and every Alteration, may be perpetuated in the Thing altered, and not changed. But it alſo is diverſified according to the Diverſity of Things to be fixed; which are certain Bodies diminiſhed from Perfection, as Saturn, Jupiter, Mars, and Venus: and according to the Diverſity of Spirits alſo, which are Sulphur and Arſnick in one Degree, and Argentvive in another; but Marchaſite, Magneſia, Tutia, and the like of theſe, in the third.

Therefore theſe Bodies diminiſhed from Perfection, are fixed by their Calcination; becauſe thereby they are freed from their Volatile and corrupting Sulphureity. And this We have ſufficiently declared in the Chapter of Calcination. But Sulphur and Arſnick are fixed two ways, viz. by Reiteration of their Sublimation in the Veſſel Aludel, until they remain fixed. Therefore, according to this, the Intention of haſtening the Fixation of them, is, that the Invention of repeating a manifold Sublimation in a ſhort time, be obſerved therein; which Reiteration is made by two Aludels, with their two Heads or Covers, in the following Order, that you may never eaſe from the Work of Sublimation, until you have fixed them. Therefore, ſo ſoon as they have aſcended in one Veſſel, put them into the other; and ſo do continually, never ſuffering them long to abide adhering to the ſides of either Veſſel; but conſtantly keep them in the Elevation of Fire, until the Elevation of them ceaſeth. For, the ſooner you can multiply the manifold Repetitions of Sublimation, the more ſwiftly and better will you abbreviate the time of its Fixation. For this Cauſe, there was a ſecond way of Fixion found out, which is by precipitating of it ſublimed into Heat, that it may conſtantly abide therein, until it be fixed. And this is done by a long Glaſs Veſſel, the Bottom of which (made of Earth, not of Glaſs, becauſe that would crack) muſt be artificially connexed with good Luting; and the aſcending Matter, when it adheres to the Sides of the Veſſel, with a Spatula of Iron or Stone, thruſt down to the Heat of the Bottom, and this Precipitation repeated, till the whole be fixed.

The way of fixing Argentvive. is the ſame with the way of Fixation of Sulphur and Arſnick; and theſe ways differ not, unleſs that Sulphur and Arſnick cannot be fixed, if their moſt thin inflamable Parts, be not ſeparated from them, with the ſubtile Artifice of Diviſion, by this ultimate way of Fixation. But Argentvive hath not this Conſideration, therefore, in this Method, they need a more temperate Heat than Argentvive. In like manner they are diverſified, becauſe theſe muſt be elevated higher, by reaſon of their ſlowneſs, than Argentvive; and alſo becauſe they are fixed in longer time than it. Therefore they require a longer Veſſel for their Fixation than Argentvive.

The Fixation of Marchaſite, Magneſia, and Tutia, is, that after the firſt Sublimation of them is finiſhed, caſting away their Feces, We reiterate their Sublimation, ſo often returning what aſcends upward, to that which remains below, of either of them, until they be fixed. The Deſcription of the Veſſels of theſe, is already given.

CHAP. XVIII.

Of Ceration, and its Cauſe.

CEration is the mollification of an hard Thing, not fuſible unto Liquefaction. Hence it is manifeſt, that the Cauſe of the Invention of this, was, that the Matter which had not Ingreſs into the Body for Alteration, by reaſon of Privation of its Liquefaction, might be mollified ſo as to flow, and have Ingreſs; therefore ſome thought Ceration was to be made with Liquid Oyls and Waters: but that is erroneous, and wholly remote from the Principles of this Natural Magiſtery, and reproved by the manifeſt VVorks of Nature. For We find not in thoſe Metallick Bodies, that Nature hath poſited an Humidity ſoon terminable; but rather long durable, for the neceſſity of their Fuſion and Mollification; becauſe, if ſhe had inſited in them an Humidity ſoon terminable, it would neceſſarily follow, that the Bodies muſt be totally deprived of it, in one only Ignition. Whence alſo it would follow, that every Body could neither be hammered nor melted, after one Ignition.

Wherefore, imitating the Works of Nature as much as We can, We muſt neceſſarily follow her Way in Cerating. She Cerates in the Radix of fuſible Things, with an Humidity, which is above all Humidities, able to ſuſtain the Heat of Fire: therefore it is neceſſarily expedient for Us alſo, to cerate with like Humidity: But this Cerative Humidity is no thing better, more poſſibly, and more nearty found, than in theſe, viz. in Sulphur, and in Arſnick, nearly; but more nearly in Argentvive. Therefore We ſee not the Humidity of theſe to leave their Earth, by reaſon of the ſtrong Union, which they have in the Work of the Mixtion of Nature. But in all other Things having Humidity, by Experience you will find, that the ſame is ſeparated in Reſolution from their Earthy Subſtance; and after Separation thereof, that they are deprived of all Humidity. Yet in the Spirits aforeſaid, it is not ſo. Therefore, there is no other Thing, by which We may be excuſed from taking them in the Work of Ceration.

The way of Ceration by them is, that the Sublimation of them be ſo often multiplied upon the Thing to be Cerated, until remaining with their Humidity in it, they give good Fuſion. Yet this cannot be effected, before the perfect cleanſing of them, from every corrupting Thing. But it ſeems better to me, that the Oyls of theſe ſhould be firſt fixed, by Oyl of Tartar, and every Ceration, competent and neceſſary for this Art, be made with them.

The end of the Firſt Book of GEBER of the Sum of Perfection, or of the Perfect Magiſtery.

The Second Book Of the Sum of PERFECTION, OR OF THE PERFECT MAGISTERY.

The AUTHOR'S PREFACE, Dividing this Second Book into Three Parts.

THe Diſcourſe of the Principles of this Magiſtery being compleated, We muſt neceſſarily (according to Our Promiſe) exactly proſecute the Intent of this Art, in a Speech convenient and proper thereunto. Which Intent is, a Conſideration of every Thing, by which the Perfection of this Work may more manifeſtly be ſhewed. And it is a Conſideration of the neceſſity of Perfection of the Medicine, viz. How it may be underſtood from what thing that may beſt and more nearly be extracted, for the intire Perfection of the Imperfect. And it is likewiſe a Conſideration of the Artifices, by which We may know, whether the Perfection be compleat, or not. Therefore theſe Three being delivered, the whole Knowledge of Perfection will be deſcribed, according to the Exigency of Our Art.

The Firſt Part of this Second Book, Of the Knowledge of Things, whereby the poſſibility and way of Perfection may be underſtood.

CHAP. I.

That the Knowledge of Perfection of this Art, depends on the Knowledge of the Nature of Spirits and Bodies, &c.

IT is not poſſible to know the Tranſmutations of Bodies, or of Argentvive, unleſs the Knowledge of the Nature of them according to their Radixes, be well impreſſed in the Mind of the Artiſt. Therefore We will firſt notifie the Principles of Bodies, viz. What they are according to their Cauſes, and what Good or Evil they contain in themſelves. But afterward We will ſhew the Natures of all thoſe Bodies, with all their Properties, viz. What are the Cauſes of the Corruption of them; proving the ſame by their Experiences.

CHAP. II.

Of the Nature of Sulphur and Arſnick.

THerefore firſt, inferring the Nature of Spirits, which are the Principles of thoſe Bodies; We ſay, that Sulphur and Arſnick are a Fatneſs of the Earth, as above is declared; the Experience and manifeſt Probation of which you may gather, from its eaſie Inflamation, and the eaſie Liquefaction thereof by Heat. For nothing is inflamed, but what is oleaginous, or melts eaſily by Heat, unleſs it hath the Nature thereof. Therefore Sulphur, and its Compeer, have an inflamable Subſtance, and Earthy Feculency, the Cauſe of their Corruption. But they have a perfecting middle Cauſe, viz. between this and that. Earthyneſs in it is the Cauſe of Corruption, becauſe it neither hath Fuſion, nor Ingreſs: and the Inflamable Subſtance likewiſe; becauſe it neither ſtands in Fire, nor makes to ſtand; and becauſe from every kind of it, it yields Blackneſs. Therefore their middle Subſtance is the Cauſe of Perfection in them; becauſe by its Earthyneſs it is not hindred from Ingreſs, which is perfected by good Fuſion; and by the Subtility of it, its Impreſſion is not eaſily removed for Flight. Yet the Middle Subſtance of them is not the Cauſe of Perfection of Bodies, or of Argentvive, unleſs it be fixed. Which being not fixed, although its Impreſſion is not eaſily removed, yet it is not ſtably perpetuated. Hence it is manifeſt, that the Artiſt muſt neceſſarily divide the Middle Subſtance thereof. But ſome have thought it impoſſible to divide the ſame, by reaſon of its ſtrong Mixtion. And indeed they oppoſed their own manifeſt Works.

For they calcined Sulphur, although not much, ſo that it had neither Fuſion nor Inflamation. But that muſt neceſſarily happen by Diviſion; becauſe Sulphur remaining in its Natural Commixtion muſt unavoidably be inflamed and burned. Therefore by the Diviſion of divers Subſtances in it, 'tis apparent, that (in the ſame Artifice) the more inflamable part of it, is ſeparated from the Parts not inflamable. For if it be poſſible, by Calcination, to come to the Removal of all Inflamable Parts in it, they muſt neceſſarily confeſs, from their own Natural Works, that every Diviſion of Parts is poſſible to be attained. But becauſe this depends on moſt ſubtile Artifice, they thought it to be impoſſible.

Therefore, from the above-premiſed, it is evident, that Sulphur is not of the Verity of Our Art, but a part thereof. And We have now brought you to the Knowledge of the Artifice, by which it is poſſible to come to the Diviſion thereof. But in Arſnick, becauſe in the Radix of its Minera, by the Action of Nature, many inflamable parts of it are reſolved, therefore the Artifice of its Separation is eaſie. Yet that is the Tincture of Whiteneſs, but Sulphur of Redneſs. Therefore it is needful, that great Caution ſhould be uſed in the Diviſion of Sulphur.

CHAP. III.

Of the Nature of Mercury, or Argentvive.

IN Argentvive likewiſe, there is a neceſſity of removing Superfluities, For it hath Cauſes of Corruption, viz. An Earthy Subſtance, and Aduſtible Waterineſs without Inflamation. Yet ſome have thought it not to have any ſuperfluous Earth, and Ʋncleanneſs; but what is thought by them is vain. For We ſee it to conſiſt of much Lividneſs, and not of Whiteneſs. And We likewiſe ſee the Black and Feculent Earth to be ſeparated from it with eaſie Artifice, by a Lavation, the Method of which We will ſhew. But becauſe We are by that to acquire a twofold Perfection, viz. To make a Medicine, and to perfect it; therefore We muſt neceſſarily prepare the ſame by the Degree of a twofold Mundation; for two Cleanſings of Mercury are neceſſary. One, by Sublimation for the Medicine, and this is here ſhewed; and the other, by a Lavament for Coagulation; and that alſo ſhall be ſhewed. For, if We would create Medicine of it, then there is a neceſſity to cleanſe it from the Feculency of its Earthineſs by Sublimation; leaſt it create a Livid Colour in Projection: and alſo to remove its Fugitive Waterineſs, leaſt it make the whole Medicine Fugitive in Projection; and to keep ſafe the middle Subſtance thereof, for Medicine: Of which the property is not to be burned, and to defend from Combuſtion, and not to flie it ſelf; and alſo to make fixed. Therefore We prove that to be a Perfective, by many Experiences. For We ſee Argentvive more nearly to adhere to Argentvive, and to be more beloved by the ſame; but next to it is Gold, and after that Silver.

Wherefore, hence it follows, that Argentvive is more friendly to its own Nature: but We ſee other Bodies not to have ſo great Conformity to it, and therefore We in very deed find them leſs to partake of the Nature thereof. And whatſoever Bodies We ſee more to defend from Aduſtion, thoſe We conſider to poſſeſs more the Nature of it. Therefore 'tis manifeſt, that Argentvive is the Perfective and Salvative of Aduſtion, which is the the Ʋltimate of Perfection.

But the Second Degree of Mundation, is for its Coagulation. And the waſhing away of its Earthineſs for one Day only, is ſufficient for it. The Method of which Waſhing is this: Take an Earthen Diſh, and into it put your Argentvive, upon which pour only ſo much of moſt ſtrong Vinegar, or any other like Thing, as will be ſufficient to cover it. Then ſet the Diſh over a gentle Fire, that the whole may be warm and not too hot; and ſtir it continually with your Fingers on the Bottom of the Diſh, that the Argentvive may be divided in the likeneſs of a ſubtile white Powder, until the whole Vinegar be evaporated, and the Mercury revived. After you ſee the Vinegar to come off feculent and black, caſt that away, and waſh the Mercury with freſh Vinegar; repeating this Waſhing, until you ſee the Colour of its Earthineſs to be perfectly changed into a clear Colour, mixt with a white and coeleſtine Colour, which is a ſign of perfect Waſhing. Therefore when it comes to that, project upon it the Medicine of Coagulation, and it will be Coagulated into a Solifick, or Lunifick, according as the Medicine was prepared; the Narration of which We ſet down in the following. From what is now mentioned, 'tis manifeſt, that Argentvive is not Perfective in its Nature; but that is, which is produced of it by Our Artifice. And ſo likewiſe is it in Sulphur and its Compeer. Therefore in theſe it is not poſſible Naturally to follow Nature, but by Our Natural Artifice.

CHAP. IV.

Of the Nature of Marchaſite, Magneſia, and Tutia.

BUt there is a neceſſity We ſhould alſo treat of other Spirits, viz. Marchaſite, Magneſia, and Tutia, making great Impreſſion in Bodies. Therefore, what they are, with their Probations, We ſhall ſhew in the preſent Chap. Marchaſite hath in its Creation a two-fold Subſtance, viz. of Argentvive mortified and approaching to Fixation, and of burning Sulphur. That it hath Sulphureity We find by manifeſt Experience: for when it is Sublimed, a manifeſt burning ſulphureous Subſtance proceeds from it, and the Sulphureity of it is likewiſe found without Sublimation. For if it be put into the Fire, it is no ſooner red hot, but it is inflamed with a Sulphureous Flame, and Burns. Alſo, it is ſenſibly manifeſted, that it hath the Subſtance of Argentvive; for it gives to Venus the Whiteneſs of pure Silver, as alſo to Argentvive; and We ſee it, in its Sublimation to yield a Coeleſtine Colour, and to have a manifeſt Metallick Lucidity. All which make the Artiſt certainly to know, that it contains in its Radix theſe Subſtances.

Alſo, you may manifeſtly prove by the ſame Experiences, that Magneſia hath a more turbid Sulphur, and an Argentvive more earthy and feculent; and that the ſame Sulphur is likewiſe more fixed, and leſs inflamable: and it is more approximate to the Nature of Mars. But Tutia is the fume of White Bodies; and this is evidenced by manifeſt Probation. For the Fume of the Mixtion of Jupiter and Venus, adhereing to the Sides of the Forges, or Furnaces of Artificers Working in thoſe Metals, makes the ſame Impreſſion as it. And what a Metallick Fume doth not, without the Admixtion of ſome Body, the ſame this likewiſe effects not. Therefore, ſeeing this Fume is of White Bodies, the White cannot Citrinate or Colour Bodies, but the Red. For Citrinity or Yellowneſs, is no other, than a determinate Proportion of White and Red. Therefore it, by reaſon of its Subtility, more penetrates the Profundity of the Body; and conſequently more alters, than its own Body; and more adheres in the Examen with ſmall Artifice, as is now declared to to you. Wherefore, what Bodies ſoever are altered by the Vertue of Argentvive, or of Sulphur, or of the like of theſe, muſt neceſſarily be altered: becauſe theſe only communicate in Nature to thoſe Bodies.

CHAP. V.

Of the Nature of Sol, or Gold.

NOw of Bodies, We will more amply declare the intimate Nature of them. And firſt of Sol, but afterward of Luna, and then of all the other, according as ſhall be thought expedient, with their Probations, which are acquired by Experiment.

Sol is created of the moſt ſubtile Subſtance of Argentvive, and of moſt clear Fixture; and of a ſmall Subſtance of Sulphur clean, and of pure Redneſs, fixed, clear, and changed from its own Nature, tinging that. And becauſe there happens a Diverſity in the Colurs of that Sulphur, the Citrinity (or Yellowneſs) of Gold muſt needs have a like Diverſity. For ſome is more intenſe, other leſs in Yellowneſs. That Gold is of the moſt ſubtile Subſtance of Argentvive is moſt evident, becauſe Argentvive eaſily retains it. For Argentvive retains not any Thing, that is not of its own Nature. And that it hath the clear and clean Subſtance of that, is manifeſt by its ſplendid and radiant Brightneſs, manifeſting it ſelf not only in the Day, but alſo in the Night. And that it hath a fixed Subſtance void of all burning Sulphureity, is evident by every Operation of it in Fire: for it is neither diminiſhed nor inflamed. And that it is tinging Sulphur, is manifeſt by this, viz. that being mixt with Argentvive, it transforms the ſame into a Red Colour; and being ſublimed with ſtrong Ignition from Bodies, ſo that the Subſtance of them aſcends, with that it creates a moſt Yellow Colour. Therefore, 'tis apparent, that when its Subſtance is pure, it creates a pure Colour; but when not pure, an impure Colour. But he who requires a ſign of the Probation of its Yellowneſs, wants his Senſe; becauſe that is diſcerned by ſight.

Therefore the moſt ſubtile Subſtance of Argentvive brought to Fixation, and the purity of the ſame, and the moſt ſubtile Matter of Sulphur, fixed and not burning, is the whole Eſſential Matter of Gold. But in it is found a greater Quantity of Argentvive, than of Sulphur; wherefore Argentvive hath greater Ingreſs into it. For this cauſe, whatſoever Bodies you would alter, alter them according to this Exemplar, that you may deduce them to the Equality thereof. The way to effect which, We have now given. For Gold having ſubtile and fixed Parts, thoſe Parts could in its Creation be much condenſed: and this was the Cauſe of its great Weight. But, by great Decoction made by Nature, a leiſurely and graduate Reſolution of it was made, together with good Inſpiſſation, and its ultimate Mixtion, that it might melt in the Fire.

From the fore-going 'tis evident, that a large Quantity of Argentvive is Cauſe of Perfection, but much of Sulphur is Cauſe of Corruption. And Ʋniformity in Subſtance, which through the Mixtion is made in Natural Decoction, is Cauſe of Perfection; but Diverſity in Subſtance is Cauſe of Corruption. And Induration (or Hardning) and Inſpiſſation, which is made by long and temperate Decoction, is Cauſe of Perfection; but the contrary of Corruption. Therefore, if Sulphur ſhall not duly fall upon that Argentvive, diverſe Corruptions muſt neceſſarily be inferred, according to the Diverſity of it. For the Sulphur, which falls upon it fixed, may not be all aduſtible, or all aduſtible and flying, in the Nature of Sulphur; or flying, and not in the Nature of Sulphur; or hold part of the flying, and part of the fixed; or in part hold the Nature of Sulphur, and in part not; or be all clean, or half unclean; or be of much or little Quantity: of much excelling in the Mixture, or of little Quantity excelled in it; or neither overcoming, nor overcome; or white, or red, or between both. Therefore, from all theſe Diverſities, there was a neceſſity that diverſe Bodies, and the like of theſe, ſhould be created in Nature. All which Diverſities We intend to ſpeak of with manifeſt Probations.

CHAP. VI.

Of the Nature of Luna, or Silver.

THerefore, 'tis now clear from the precedent, that if clean, fixed, red, and clear Sulphur fall upon the pure Subſtance of Argentvive (being it ſelf not excelling, but of ſmall Quantity, and excelled) of it is created pure Gold. But if the Sulphur be clean, fixed, white and clear, which falls upon the Subſtance of Argentvive, pure Silver is made, if in Quantity it exceed not: yet this hath a Purity ſhort of the Purity of Gold, and a more groſs Inſpiſſation than Gold hath. The Sign of which, is, that its Parts are not ſo condenſed, as that it can be equal in Weight to Gold; nor hath it ſo fixed a Subſtance as that: the Sign of this is, its Diminution in Fire; and the Sulphur of it, which is neither fixed, nor incombuſtible, is the Cauſe of that Diminution. But it is not impoſſible, or improbable, to give Judgment of the ſame, as fixed and not fixed, in reſpect of one Body, or another. For Luna's Sulphureity, compared with the Sulphureity of Sol, is not fixed and burning; but in reſpect of the Sulphur of other Bodies, it is fixed, and not burning.

CHAP. VII.

Of the Nature of Mars, or Iron. Alſo of the Effects of Sulphur and Mercury; and of the Cauſes of Corruption and Perfection.

BUT if fixed earthy Sulphur be commixt with fixed earthy Argentvive, and both theſe be not pure, but of a livid Whiteneſs, the Quantity of the Superancy of which, is Sulphur highly fixed, of theſe Iron is made: becauſe the Superancy of fixed Sulphur prohibits Fuſion. Therefore, hence 'tis manifeſt, that Sulphur, by the work of Fixation, more ſwiftly deſtroys the eaſineſs of Liquefaction, than Argentvive. But We ſee Sulphur not fixed, ſooner to melt than Argentvive. By theſe is manifeſted the Cauſe of Swiftneſs and Slowneſs of Fuſion in every Body. For what hath more of fixed Sulphur, more ſlowly admits of Fuſion, than what partakes of burning Sulphur, which more eaſily and ſooner flows: and this is clearly enough already declared by Us. But that the fixed Sulphur makes ſlower Fuſion, is evident by this, viz. that it is never fixed, unleſs it be calcined, and no Calcinate gives Fuſion: therefore in all Things it muſt impede the ſame. That it is not fixed, unleſs it be calcined, is manifeſt by the Experiment of him, who would have fixed the ſame not calcined: becauſe he always found it to fly, until it was turned into Earth, the Similitude of which is of the Nature of Calx.

Yet this happens not in Argentvive; becauſe that may be fixed, without being turned into Earth, and likewiſe fixed with Converſion of it into Earth. For by haſtning to its Fixation, which is made by Precipitation, it is fixed, and turned into Earth. Alſo, by the ſucceſſive Sublimation of it often repeated, it is fixed likewiſe, and not changed into Earth, but gives Metallick Fuſion. This is manifeſt to, and proved by Him, who hath experienced both Fixations thereof, even to the Conſummation of the Work; by haſty Precipitation, and alſo by the ſlow, with continually repeated Sublimations. For he ſaw, and found it ſo, as he ſaw it written by Us. And this therefore is, becauſe it hath a viſcious and denſe Subſtance: the Sign of which is, the Grinding of it, by imbibition and mixtion, with other Things. For Viſcoſity is manifeſtly perceived in it, by the much adherency thereof. That it hath a denſe Subſtance, he that hath but one eye may manifeſtly ſee by its aſpect, and by poyſing the immenſe weight thereof. For it, whilſt it is in its own Nature, excels Gold in weight; and it is of a moſt ſtrong Compoſition, as is declared. Therefore, hence it is manifeſt, that it may be fixed without Conſumption of its Humidity, and without Converſion of it into Earth. For, by reaſon of the good adherency of Parts, and the fortitude of its Mixtion, if the parts of it be in any wiſe inſpiſſate by Fire, it permits it ſelf no further to be corrupted, nor ſuffers it ſelf (by the ingreſs of a furious Flame into it) to be elevated into Fume: becauſe it admits not rarefaction of it ſelf, by reaſon of its Denſity, and want of Aduſtion; which is made by combuſtible Sulphureity, which it hath not.

Therefore, by what is mentioned, is found (with an indubitate Invention) the wonderful double Kind of two Secrets, viz. one, the Cauſes of Corruption of every of the Metals by Fire; one of which is the Incluſion of a burning Sulphureity in the profundity of their Subſtance, diminiſhing them by Inflamation, and exterminating alſo into Fume, with extream Conſumption, whatſoever Argentvive in them is of good Fixation. But the other is a multiplication upon them of an exterior Flame penetrating, and reſolving them with it ſelf into Fume, of how great Fixation ſoever that in them is. A third Cauſe of Corruption is rarefaction of them by Calcination: for then the Flame, or Fire, can penetrate into, and exterminate them. Therefore, if all Cauſes of Corruption concur, ſuch Bodies muſt needs be exceedingly corrupted. But if not all, the ſwiftneſs of Corruption of every Body is remitted, according to the Remiſſion of them. The ſecond Kind is Goodneſs, which by it is conſidered in Bodies. For ſeeing Argentvive, for no Cauſes of Extermination permits it ſelf to be divided into parts in its Compoſition (becauſe it either with its whole Subſtance recedes from the Fire, or with its whole remains permanent in it) in it is neceſſarily obſerved a Cauſe of Perfection. Therefore praiſed be the glorious and bleſſed Moſt High GOD, who created it, and gave to the ſame a Subſtance, and the Properties of a Subſtance, which are given to none of the Things in Nature to poſſeſs; that this Perfection might be found in it, by a certain Artifice, as We have found therein with near potency. For it is that which overcomes Fire, and by Fire is not overcome; but in it amicably reſts, rejoycing therein.

CHAP. VIII.

Of the Nature of Venus, or Copper.

WHerefore, returning to our purpoſe, We ſay, that if the Sulphur be unclean, groſs, and fixed, as to its greater part; but as to its leſſer part not fixed, red, and livid; in relation to the whole, not overcoming, nor overcome; and this fall upon groſs Argentvive, Copper muſt neceſſarily be created thereof. The Probation of all theſe is eaſie, by things given from the Nature of them. For, when Copper is expoſed to Ignition, you may diſcern a Sulphureous Flame to ariſe from it, which is a Sign of Sulphur not fixed. And the loſs of the Quantity of it by Exhalation, through the frequent Combuſtion thereof, ſignifies that it hath fixed Sulphur. For from that is cauſed the ſlowneſs of its Fuſion, and Induration (or Hardneſs) of its Subſtance, which are Signs of the Multitude of its fixed Sulphur. And that there is Sulphur red and unclean, conjoyned with unclean Argentvive, is known by Senſe; therefore it needs no other Probation. Therefore, by Experiment, you may attain to the whole Secret.

For you ſee every Thing, by the Action of Heat changed into Earth, with eaſe to be diſſolved, and reduced to the Nature of Water. This happens by Reaſon of the Subtiliation of the parts by Fire. Therefore a Thing more ſubtile in its proper Nature, reduced to this Earthy Nature, is more ſubtiliated thereby; becauſe it is more diſſolved; ſo that, what are of a moſt ſubtile Nature, are moſt and beſt diſſolved and ſubtiliated. Hence the Cauſe of the Corruption and Infection of theſe two Bodies, viz. of Mars and Venus, is apparent: for it is by Sulphur of much Quantity fixed; and by not fixed Sulphur, of ſmall Quantity in Venus, but of leſſe Quantity in Mars. Therefore, when the fixed Sulphur comes to Fixation by Heat of Fire, its parts are ſubtiliated; but that part, which is in the Aptitude of Solution of its Subſtance, is diſſolved. The Sign of which is the Expoſition of theſe two Bodies to the Vapour of Vinegar: for by that, the Aluminoſity of their Sulphur (created in it by ſubtiliative Heat) flowereth in the Superficies of them. And if you put theſe two Bodies into a Saline Liquor, many parts of them are eaſily diſſolved by Ebullition. And if you look into the Minera's of theſe two, you will find a manifeſt Subſtance of Aluminoſity, to diſtill diſſolved from them, and in them to adhere: which Aluminouſneſs, by the Saline Waterineſs, and eaſie Solution, is changed into Water. For nothing is found Watery and eaſily ſoluble, except Allom, and what is of its Nature.

But the Blackneſs in either of theſe two Bodies, created by Fire, is by reaſon of the Sulphur not fixed, which is concluded in them: much indeed in Venus, but little in Mars, and it approacheth nigh to the Nature of fixed Sulphur. Therefore, 'tis not poſſible, that ſuch an Impreſſion ſhould be eaſily removed from Mars. Hence it is now evident, that Fuſion is made from Sulphur not fixed, and alſo Fuſion is helped thereby; but F[••••]n is not made from fixed Sulphur, being rather impeded by the ſame. There is no neceſſity to think, that Fuſion is not made, and that Fuſion is impeded by fixed Argentvive. This he knows to be certainly true, who, by no Art of Fuſion could make Sulphur to flow, after its Fixation: but having fixed Argentvive, by frequently repeating the Sublimation thereof, found it apt to admit good Fuſion.

Hence therefore it is manifeſt, that thoſe Bodies are of greater Perfection, which contain more of Argentvive; but what contain leſs, of leſs Perfection. Therefore ſtudy in all your Works, that Argentvive may excel in the Commixtion. And if you can perfect by Argentvive only, you will be the Searcher out of a moſt precious Perfection; and of the Perfection of that, which overcomes the Work of Nature. For you may cleanſe it moſt inwardly, to which Mundification Nature cannot reach. But the Probation of this, viz. that thoſe Bodies, which contain a greater Quantity of Argentvive, are of greater Perfection, is their eaſie Reception of Argentvive. For We ſee Bodies of Perfection amicably to embrace Argentvive.

Therefore from the precedent Diſcourſe 'tis evident, that in Bodies there is a twofold Sulphureity: One indeed included in the Profundity of Argentvive, in the beginning of their Mixtion; but the other is ſupervenient. One of which is removed with Labour, but the other cannot be poſſibly taken away by any Artifice performed by Fire, to which our Operation can congruouſly and profitably come; it being ſo firmly and radically united therein. And this is proved by Experiment: for We ſee the aduſtible Sulphureity to be aboliſhed by Fire, but the fixed Sulphureity not ſo. Therefore, when We ſay, Bodies are cleanſed by Calcination, you muſt underſtand that to be meant of the Earthy Subſtance, which is not united in the Radix of their Nature. For it is not poſſible, by the Art of Fire to cleanſe what is united; unleſs the Medicine of Argentvive (hiding and contempering that, or ſeparating it from the Mixture) have acceſs.

Separation of an Earthy Subſtance from its Compound, which in the root of Nature is united to a Metal, is thus: Either it is made by Elevation, with things elevating the Subſtance of Argentvive, and leaving the Sulphureity, by reaſon of its conveniency with them, as is Tutia and Marchaſite; becauſe they are Fumes, part of which is a greater Quantity of Argentvive than of Sulphur. The Experience of this you may ſee, when you ſhall joyn theſe with Bodies in a ſtrong and ſudden Fuſion; for theſe Spirits in their Flight carry up the Bodies with them: Therefore you may elevate with them. Or elſe, by a Lavation with Commixtion with Argentvive, as We have told you. For Argentvive holds what is of its own Nature, but caſts out what is alien.

CHAP. IX.

Of the Nature of Jupiter, or Tin.

THis Inveſtigation being propoſed, following our purpoſe, We ſay, That if Sulphur in the Radix of the Commixtion, ſhall be participating of ſmall Fixation, White with Whiteneſs not pure, not overcoming, but overcome, commixed with Argentvive partly fixed, and partly not fixed, white and impure; from that Mixtion Tin muſt needs follow. The Probation of theſe you will find by Preparation. For, when you calcine Tin, you find a Sulphureous ſtink to ariſe from it; which is a ſign of Sulphur not fixed. And although it yield no Flame, you muſt not therefore think it fixed. For it gives no Flame, not by reaſon of Fixation, but by reaſon of the Superancy of Argentvive in the Commixtion, preſerving from Combuſtion. Therefore, in Tin is proved a twofold Sulphureity, and alſo a twofold Subſtance of Argentvive. One Sulphureity is leſs fixed, becauſe in calcining it caſts out a ſtink as Sulphur. The Experience of the Mixture is proved by the Firſt. The other is proved to be more fixed, by the continuation of it in its Calx, in the Fire which it hath, and yet it ſtinks not. That there is alſo a twofold Subſtance of Argentvive in it, whereof one is not fixed, and the other fixed, is proved; becauſe it makes a craſhing noiſe before its Calcination, but after it hath been thrice calcined, that craſhing is not; the reaſon of this, is, becauſe the fugitive Subſtance of its Argentvive, making that craſhing, is flown away. That the fugitive Subſtance of Argentvive is a Cauſe making that Stridor, or craſhing, is proved by waſhing Lead with Argentvive. For if Lead be waſhed with Argentvive, and after its waſhing melted in Fire not exceeding the Fire of its Fuſion, with it will remain part of the Argentvive, which gives this Stridor to the Lead, and turns it into Tin. But on the contrary you may conſider that alſo, by the Mutation of Tin into Lead: For by a manifold Repetition of its Calcination, and the Adminiſtration of Fire convenient for its Reduction, it is turned into Lead: but eſpecially, when by ſubſtraction of its Scoria it is calcined with great Fire.

Touching the Diverſities of theſe Subſtances you may be aſcertained, by the Knowledg of Conſervation of them in proper Inſtruments, and in the Meaſure of Fire dividing them: to which we have attained with Inſtance of Labour, and have ſeen with certain Aſſurance, that We judged of the Truth by the ſame. But ſeeing it is expedient, We ſhould inform you what that is, which remains after the removal from Jupiter, of theſe two Subſtances, viz. of Sulphur and Argentvive, that you may compleatly know the Compoſition of Tin, We ſay, it is livid, and ponderous as Lead, yet partaking of greater Whiteneſs, than Lead: therefore it is moſt pure Lead. And in it is the Equality of Fixation of the two Things compounding, viz. of Argentvive and Sulphur; but not Equality of Quantity; becauſe in the Commixtion, the Argentvive overcomes. The ſign of which is the Eaſineſs of Ingreſs of Argentvive in its Nature into it. Therefore, if in it were not a greater Quantity of Argentvive, the ſame (taken in its Nature) would not eaſily adhere to it. Wherefore it adheres not to Mars, unleſs with moſt ſubtile Ingenuity; nor unto Venus, by reaſon of the paucity of Argentvive in it, in its Commixtion. And this is evident, becauſe it adheres to Mars moſt difficultly, but to Venus more eaſily; becauſe that hath a greater abundance of Mercury, than Mars. The ſign of this, is the eaſie Fuſion of one, but moſt difficult Fuſion of the other.

But the Fixion of theſe two Subſtances remaining, approacheth nigh to firm Fixation; yet it is not therefore perpetually fixed. And the Probation of this, is the Calcination of its Body; and after Calcination, the expoſing of the ſame to moſt ſtrong Fire. For by that, Diviſion is not made; but the whole Subſtance aſcends: yet more purified. Therefore We ſee the burning Sulphur in Tin to be more eaſily ſeparated, than the ſame in Lead. And an Experiment of this you ſee by the eaſie Induration (or hardning) of Tin, its Calcination, and the Melioration of its Brightneſs. Whence We have conſidered, that theſe corrupting Properties were not in the Radix of it, but had acceſs to it afterward. And, becauſe they were not much conjoyned to it in the firſt Commixtion, therefore they may eaſily be ſeparated. For this Cauſe, the Alterations in it are of a ſwift Work, viz. its Mundification, Induration, and Fixation. And you may manifeſtly conſider the Cauſes of theſe, by what are above delivered. And becauſe, after theſe Operations, viz. Calcination and Reduction, We conſidered in its Fume a Citrinity (or Yellowneſs) which We ſaw to ariſe by great Elevation, and Expreſſion of Fire; by which, being of the Property of Sulphur calcined, We judged with a true Eſtimation, in which We were aſſured, that it contained in it ſelf much of the Nature of fixed Sulphur.

Therefore they, who would ſee the Truth in this our Science, let them ſtudy the Inveſtigation of all theſe Things, with diligence of Labour, until by the ſame they find out the Principles of Bodies and Properties of Spirits, with a certain (not conjectural) Invention; which in this our Volume We have ſufficiently treated of, according to the Exigency of Art.

CHAP. X.

Of the Nature of Saturn, or Lead.

IT now remains, that We come to the Deſcription of Saturn; of which We ſay it differ not from Tin, after repeating its Calcination, to the Reduction thereof; except that it hath a more unclean Subſtance, commixed of the two more groſs Subſtances, viz. of Sulphur and Argentvive; and that the Sulphur in it is burning, and more adheſive to the Subſtance of its own Argentvive; and that it hath more of the Subſtance of fixed Sulphur to its Compoſition, than Jupiter hath. The Probations of theſe We infer by manifeſt Experiences.

That it is of greater Earthy Feculency than Jupiter, is manifeſted by the Sight, and by the Waſhing of it with Argentvive, in this, viz. That more Feculency comes from it in the Waſhing than from Jupiter; and that it takes the firſt Degree of Calcination more eaſily than Tin, which is a Sign of much Earthineſs. For We find Bodies of more Earthineſs, of more eaſie Calcination; and of leſs Earthineſs of more difficult Calcination. The Probation of this is, the moſt difficult Calcination of Gold compleatly. And becauſe its Foulneſs is not rectified, as in Jupiter, by repeated Calcinations, that is a ſign of greater Impurity in its Principles, in its own Nature, than in Tin, in its Nature.

And that the Quantity of its Combustible Sulphur, is more adheſive ro the Substance of Argentvive in it, than in Tin; is manifeſt by this, viz. That the ſaid Quantity is not ſeperated from it in Fume, but it is of a Citrine Colour of much Yellowneſs, the like of which is remaining below with what is in the Bottom; which muſt neceſſarily be a ſign of one of theſe three Things: either that it hath none, or a very ſmall Quantity of Combuſtible Sulphur in it; or that it hath much conjoyned in the nearneſs of its Principles, to the Radix of its Commixtion. But We are aſſured by the Odour thereof, that it hath ſome Quantity; and not a little, but much: becauſe that Odour of Sulphureity is not removed from it in a ſhort time. Therefore We have conſidered with a conſideration, by which We are aſſured that burning Sulphur, approaching to the Nature of fixed not burning Sulphur, is uniformly commixt in the Substance of Argentvive. Therefore, when the Fume of it aſcends, it muſt neceſſarily aſcend with the Sulphur not burning, of the Property of which it is, viz. to create Citrinity.

But that the Quantity of Sulphur not burning is greater in it, than in Tin, is affirmed by Us moſt truly; becauſe We ſee the whole Colour of it to be changed into Citrine, but of Tin into White, in their Calcinations. Therefore in this, to us is open the Way of finding out the Cauſe of this Work, by which Jupiter (in Calcination) is more eaſily changed into an hard Body than Saturn; but not ſooner into ſlowneſs of Liquefaction than Saturn. And that therefore is, becauſe the Cauſe of the Hardneſs of Nature is Sulphur and Argentvive fixed: but the Cauſe of Liquefaction is twofold, viz. Argentvive and combuſtible Sulphur. One of which, as to Perfection of Fuſion, is ſufficient in each Degree thereof; namely, Argentvive, with Ignition, and without Ignition. Therefore, ſeeing in Jupiter is a large Quantity of Argentvive not truly fixed, a ready ſwiftneſs of Liquefaction remains in it, and is not eaſily ſeperated there-from. The Cauſe of Mollification is alſo twofold, viz. Argentvive, and Combuſtible Sulphur. And becauſe the burning Sulphureity is more eaſily removed from Jupiter, than from Saturn; therefore, one of the Cauſes of Softneſs being removed from it, it muſt neceſſarily be hardned, being calcined. But Saturn, becauſe it hath both the Cauſes of Softneſs ſtrongly conjoyned, is not eaſily hardened.

Yet there is a Diverſity in Softneſs by Argentvive, and in Softneſs by Sulphur: becauſe Softneſs by Sulphur is Ceſſive, but Softneſs by Argentvive is Extenſive. And this muſt neceſſarily be proved by Sight; ſeeing We ſee Bodies of much Argentvive, to be of much Extenſion; but Bodies of little, of little. Therefore Jupiter is more eaſily and more ſubtily extended, than Saturn; Saturn more eaſily than Venus; Venus, than Mars; Luna more ſubtily than Jupiter; but Sol more ſubtily than Luna. Therefore, 'tis manifeſt, that the Cauſe of Induration (or Hardning) is fixed Argentvive, or fixed Sulphur. But the Cauſe of Softneſs is oppoſite. The Cauſe of Fuſion is twofold, viz. Sulphur not fixed, and Argentvive of whatſoever kind it is. Sulphur not fixed is neceſſarily a Cauſe of Fuſion, without Ignition. And you manifeſtly ſee the Experience of this, by Projection of Arſnick upon Bodies difficultly fuſible; for it makes them of eaſie Fuſion, without Ignition. And the Cauſe of eaſie Fuſion is likewiſe Argentvive: but the Cauſe of Fuſion with Ignition, is fixed Argentvive. Therefore the Cauſe of Impediment of every Fuſion, is fixed Sulphur.

From what is now mentioned, you may collect a very great Secret: Namely, That ſeeing Bodies of greateſt Perfection are found to contain the greateſt Quantity of Argentvive; Bodies diminiſhed from Perfection, holding more of the Quantity of Argentvive, muſt needs be more approximate to the Perfect. Therefore it alſo follows, that Bodies of much Sulphureity, are Bodies of much Corruption. Wherefore, from the above alleadged, it is now evident, that Jupiter is moſtly approximated to the Perfect, ſeeing ir precipitates more of Perfection, but Saturn leſs; and Venus yet leſs, and Mars leaſt of that, on which Perfection depends. And otherwiſe they differ in themſelves, as to Medicine, compleating and ſupplying the Defect, and perfectly attenuating the ſpiſſitude of Bodies to their Profundity, and covering the Cloudineſs of the ſame, under a Subſtance of ſplendent Brightneſs. For the moſt perfective of Medicine is Venus; but Mars leſs; Jupiter yet leſs; and Saturn leaſt of all. From theſe therefore, by the Truth-telling Search of Labour, according to the Diverſity of Bodies, divers Medicines are found out, by Preparation. For the hard Body, that can endure Ignition, requires one Medicine; but the ſoft, that abides not Ignition, another. That one may be mollified, and attenuated in its Profundity, and in its Subſtance equalized; but the other hardned, and its occult Parts inſpiſſated.

Therefore it concerns Us now, to paſs from theſe to Medicines, with manifeſt Experiences, ſetting down the Cauſes of divers Medicines; and what they leave diminiſhed, and what they deduce to compleatment.

The Second Part of this Second Book, Of Medicines in general, and of the neceſſity of Perfection of the Medicine perfecting all imperfect Bodies; and from what Thing it may beſt, and more nearly be exttacted.

CHAP. I.

That of every imperfect Body, and alſo of Argentvive, the Medicine muſt neceſſarily be twofold, viz. One for the White, and the other for the Red: yet that We are excuſed from theſe, by one only moſt perfect Medicine.

WE prove, that Spirits are more aſſimilated to Bodies, than any other Thing in Nature, by this, viz. Becauſe they are more united, and more friendly to Bodies, than all other Things. Therefore, We accordingly affirm, that theſe Alterations of Bodies, in the firſt Invention, are their true Medicine. And We have exerciſed our ſelves in every kind of Ingenuity, that thereby We might transform every of the imperfect Bodies, with firm Mutation, into a perfect Lunar and Solar Body. Wherefore, We find that Medicine for them muſt neceſſarily be created Divers, according to the divers Intention of Bodies to be altered. And ſince Metals to be altered are of a twofold kind, viz. Argentvive coagulable in Perfection, and Bodies diminiſhed from Perfection; and theſe again manifold, ſome being hard, ſuſtaining Ignition, but others ſoft not abiding the ſame (the hard are Mars and Venus, the ſoft Saturn and Jupiter) the Medicine perfective muſt likewiſe be manifold neceſſarily. For although Mars and Venus be of one kind, yet they differ in a certain ſpecial Property: the one being not fuſible, but the other fuſible. Therefore Mars is perfected with one Medicine, and Venus with another: and indeed the firſt is totally unclean, but the other not. Alſo this partakes of a certain dull Whiteneſs, but that of Redneſs and Greenneſs: which do likewiſe impoſe a neceſſity of Diverſity in the Medicine.

Alſo ſoft Bodies of the other kind, viz. Jupiter, and Saturn, ſeeing they no leſs differ, do neceſſarily need a divers Medicine likewiſe. For this, viz. Jupiter is clean; but that not. And indeed all theſe are rendred more mutable, now made Lunar, than Solar Bodies; therefore the Medicine of each of them muſt be twofold. One Citrine, changing into a Citrine Solar Body; the other White, changing likewiſe into a White Lunar Body. Therefore, ſince in every of the imperfect Bodies is found a twofold Matter, viz. Solar and Lunar; the Medicines perfecting all Bodies, will in the Sum be Eight. So alſo Argentvive is perfected into a Solar and Lunar Body; therefore of the Medicine altering it, there is a twofold Difference. Wherefore all the Medicines, which We have invented, with their Totality, for the compleat Alteration of every imperfect Body, will be Ten.

But We were deſirous, with conſtant and continued Labour, and the induſtry of great Indagation, to be excuſed from the Labour of theſe ten Medicines, by the benefit of one only Medicine; and with Our long and very laborous Search, We found, and with certain Experience, made one Medicine, by which the hard was ſoftned, the ſoft Body hardned, the fugitive fixed, and the foul illuſtrated with ſplendor ineffable, and beyond Nature. Nevertheleſs 'tis here expedient we ſhould particularly ſpeak of all theſe Medicines, with their their Cauſes, and the manifeſt Experiences of their Probations. Therefore firſt We will declare the Series of the ten Medicines, and accordingly of all Bodies, then of Argentvive, and laſtly proceed to the Medicine of the Magiſtery perfecting all Bodies, yet with the Preparation imperfect Bodies need. And leaſt We ſhould be carped at by the Envious, as delivering an inſufficient Treatiſe of Art, We firſt of all here preſent a Declaration of the Preparations of all the imperfect Bodies, aſſigning the Cauſes of the Neceſſity of their Inventions, by which (in our Artifice) they are rendred apt to receive the Medicine of Perfection, in every Degree of Whiteneſs and Redneſs, and to be perfected by the ſame. But after theſe ſhall be added a ſufficient and congruous Narration of all the Medicines before-mentioned.

CHAP. II.

That every of the imperfect Bodies ought to have its peculiar Preparation.

FRom what We have already diſcourſed, 'tis apparent that what Nature left Superfluous, or Deficient in every of thoſe Bodies, that are imperfect, hath been in part declared; but here We intend in a more ſufficient Diſcourſe to compleat what We above omitted relating hereunto. Therefore, ſince it happens, that the mutable Bodies of Imperfection are of a twofold kind, viz. Soft and Ignible (or burnable by Fire) as Saturn and Jupiter; and Hard, and not Fuſible, or Fuſible with Ignition, as Mars and Venus; the firſt indeed not Fuſible, but the other Fuſible with Ignition: Nature hath taught us, neceſſarily informing, that according to the Diverſity of their Eſſences, in the Radix of their Nature, divers Preparations, according to their Indigency, muſt be adminiſtred to them. There are two Bodies of Imperfection of one kind, that need to be transformed, viz. Lead, which is called Black, and by Art Saturn; and Craſhing Lead, which is called White, and in the Sentence of Art, Jupiter; which from the innate Root of their Nature, are divers each from other, in the Profundity of their occult Parts, and likewiſe in their Manifeſt. For Saturn is cloudy, livid, ponderous, and black, without Stridor (or Craſhing) totally mute; but Jupiter white, a little livid, but craſhing much, and of moderate Sound, yielding Brightneſs. The Differences of which in their Profundity, with their neceſſary Cauſes, We intend to ſhew you with manifeſt Experiences.

From which Cauſes of Difference, according to more and leſs, the well diſpoſed Artiſt collects the Order of Preparations. We therefore, according to Order, firſt declare the Preparations of Bodies; but afterward of Argentvive coagulable. Yet firſt of one kind, viz. Of Softneſs; and after this, of the other. And accordingly, the Preparation of Saturn and Jupiter, of the firſt kind of Bodies, ſhall be deſcribed firſt; afterward, the Preparation of the other ſhall follow according to their determinate Order. For in the Preparation of Bodies, nothing of Superfluity is to be removed from their profound Part, but rather from the manifeſt.

CHAP. III.

That the Defect of imperfect Metals ought to be ſupplied by Medicine, but their Superfluity removed by Preparation.

A manifold Preparation may be adhibited to the Eſſence of Saturn, and of Jupiter likewiſe, according to the Degree of their manifold Approximation to Perfection, or Elongation from it. Therefore, ſince of things indeed corrupting in their Profundity, there is one Thing advenient from the innate Radix of their Nature, and that is the Earthineſs of Sulphureity, and the Impurity of the Earth of Argentvive, commixed with the eſſential Nature of them, in the Beginning of their Creation; and an other Thing ſupervenient, after the firſt Mixtion of them inferring Corruption, and this is a burning Sulphureity of the firſt kind, and the Impurity thereof, and a foul Subſtance of Argentvive; therefore theſe are the Things corrupting the Subſtance of Perfection of Saturn and Jupiter. One of theſe it is impoſſible to remove, by the Medicine of any Induſtry, it being of the firſt Order: but the other may be removed with a little help. The firſt indeed ſeems impoſſible to be extirpated; becauſe in the Principles of the proper Nature of Bodies of this kind, the aforeſaid were mixt into a true Eſſence, and made one true Eſſence. Therefore, ſeeing it is not poſſible to remove the true Eſſence of any Thing in Nature, the Thing it ſelf remaining; it is impoſſible to ſeperate theſe Corrupting Things from them.

For this Cauſe, ſome Philoſophers have thought the Art not poſſible to be attained to by This: and We, and indeed other Searchers of this Science, in Our time, have come to this very State, viz. That We likewiſe, could by no way of Ingenious Preparation illuſtrate Bodies, with compleatment of their Brightneſs, but happened, that they were totally infected, and blackned rather. By reaſon of this, We alſo, as well as they, were driven to Amazement, and for a long ſpace of time lay under the Shade of Deſperation. Yet returning to Our Selves, and being perplexed with the immenſe Trouble of infinite Thoughts and Meditations, We conſidered Bodies diminiſhed from Perfection, to be foul in the Profundity of their Nature, and nothing fulgid (or purely clean) to be found in them; becauſe it was not in them according to Nature. For that is not found in a Thing, which is not in it. Therefore, ſeeing nothing of Perfection is found in them, therefore neceſſarily alſo, in the ſame nothing Superfluous remains to be found, in Seperation of the divers Subſtances in them, and in the Profundity of their Nature. Wherefore, by this We found ſomewhat to be diminiſhed in them, which muſt neceſſarily be compleated, by Matter convenient for it, and compleating the Defect.

Diminution in them is, the Paucity of Argentvive, and not right Spiſſation of the ſame. Therefore Compleatment in them will be Multiplication of Argentvive, good Inſpiſſation, and permanent Fixion. But this is performed by a Medicine created of that. For this Medicine, when deduced into an Eſſe from Argentvive, by the benefit of its Lucidity and Splendor, hides and covers their Cloudineſs, draws forth their Splendor, and converts the ſame into Brightneſs. And when Argentvive, prepared into a Medicine, is cleanſed by Our Artifice, reduced to a moſt pure, and moſt bright Subſtance, and projected upon Bodies diminiſhed from Perfection, it will illuſtrate, and by its Fixion perfect them. This Medicine, We will declare in its due time and place.

Now from the fore-going, it neceſſarily follows, that a twofold Invention of Perfection will be neceſſary; one indeed by the Matter, which ſeperates the foul Subſtance from the Mixture; but the other by a Medicine, which may cover it with the Splendor of its Brightneſs, and illuſtrating adorn the ſame. Therefore, ſince it happens, that nothing ſuperfluous, but rather diminiſhed, is found in the Profundity of Bodies; and if it be expedient, that what is Superfluous ſhould abſolutely be removed; that, ſupervenient from the manifeſt part of its Nature, muſt neceſſarily be both taken away, and removed, with divers Preparations; which in the following Diſcourſe We think fit to declare: firſt ſpeaking of Jupiter and Saturn, and afterward, of the other, according to Order.

CHAP. IV.

Of the Preparation of Saturn and Jupiter.

SAturn and Jupiter are prepared, with manifold Preparations, according to the neceſſity of greater Approximation to Perfection: viz. By a common and ſpecial way of Preparation. The Common is by manifold Degrees of Approximation to Perfection. For, there is one Degree of Approximation, viz. Brightneſs from the Subſtance clean. A ſecond is Hardneſs, with Ignition of its Fuſion. And a third, is Fixation, by removal of its fugitive Subſtance. Therefore they are cleanſed and made bright threefoldy: either by things mundifying, or by the way of Calcination and Reduction, or by Solution. So by things purifying, they are cleanſed two ways; either reduced into Calx, or in the Nature of Bodies. Reduced into Calx they are purified in this manner; either by Salts, or by Allomes, or by Glaſs: and the way is thus: When the Body is calcined, then upon its Calx is poured the Water of Alloms, or of Salts, or Glaſs is mixed with it, and it reduced to a Body. Therefore this muſt ſo often be reiterated upon theſe Bodies, as until they ſhew themſelves compleatly clean. For ſeeing Salts, and Allomes, and Glaſs, are fuſed with another Fuſion, than Bodies; therefore they are ſeparated from them, and retain with themſelves the Earthy Subſtance, the Purity of Bodies being only left. Another way of purifying theſe, is thus:

Let theſe two Bodies be very ſubtily filed; and with theſe Filings, Alloms, Salts, and Glaſs mixed, and then reduced into Body. And this Labour repeated ſo often, as until they be well cleanſed. Alſo, they are cleanſed by a Lavament with Argentvive, the Way of which We have given. Likewiſe, theſe Bodies are cleanſed, by reiteration of their Calcination and Reduction, with ſufficient Fire, until they appear more clean. For, by this Mundification, theſe Bodies diminiſhed from Perfection, are freed from a twofold corrupting Subſtance; one being inflamable and fugitive, but the other an earthy Feculency. And that therefore is, becauſe the Fire elevates and conſumes every fugitive Subſtance: and the ſame Fire likewiſe, in the way of Reduction, divides every Subſtance of Earth, with its Proportion. This Proportion We have made mention of in Our other Volume (Intituled Of the Inveſtigation of Perfection) which according to Order precedes this Book. For in that, We writ whatſoever We had ſearched out, according to the Reaſon of Our own Mind; but here, what We have ſeen and handled, We have compleatly determined, according to the Order of Science.

Alſo, theſe Bodies are cleanſed by Solution of their Subſtance (the way of which We have already declared) and by Reduction of that likewiſe, which is diſſolved from them. For that Solution reduced, is found more clean and more perfect, in this ſame way of Preparation, than in any other kind of Preparation whatſoever. And no way is comparable to this, except that, which is made by Sublimation; and therefore this is equivalent to that. There is likewiſe a Preparation of them, which is the Induration (or hardning) of their ſoft Subſtance, with Ignition in their Fuſion. And it is this: With them the fixed Subſtance of Argentvive, or of Sulphur fixed, or of its Compeer, muſt be mixed in their Profundity; or they muſt be mixed with hard and not fuſible Things, as is the Calx of Marchaſite and Tutia. For theſe are united with, and embraced by them, and harden them ſo, as they flow not, until they are red hot.

This ſame is likewiſe compleated by Medicine perfecting; the Narration of which We intend to give. And another way of Preparation likewiſe is, by removal of their fugitive Subſtance: and this is effected by Conſervation of them, after the firſt Degree of Calcination, in Fire proportional to them. And becauſe Order is neceſſarily required in the ways of Preparations; therefore We here ſet down the compleat Order of preparing them. Firſt therefore, all their fugitive and corrupting Aduſtive Subſtance, muſt be cleanſed from them; then their Earthy Superfluity taken away. Afterward they muſt be diſſolved and reduced, or compleatly waſhed with a Lavament of Argentvive. This Order is profitable and neceſſary.

Yet the ſpecial Preparation of theſe Bodies, and firſt of Jupiter, is manifold. One is by Calcination; and by this its Subſtance is more hardned: which happens not to Saturn. Alſo by Alloms, for theſe properly harden Jupiter. Another Preparation is, by Conſervation of it in the Fire of its Calcination. For by this it loſeth its Stridor (or Craſhing) and Fraction of Bodies likewiſe; which in the like manner happens not to Saturn: becauſe that hath no Stridor; nor doth it break Bodies. And by Reiteration of Calcination, with the Acuity of Salt, it alſo loſeth its Stridor. But ſecondarily, the ſpecial Preparation of Saturn, is by Calcination with the Acuity of Salt: for by this it is hardned, and by Talk eſpecially it is deal bated, and by Marchaſite and Tutia likewiſe. All the ways of theſe Preparations We have more compleatly determined, in Our aforeſaid Book, intituled. Of the Inveſtigation of Perfection; for here in this We have abbreviated the Summaries of them.

CHAP. V.

Of the Preparation of Venus.

THereford, imitating the Order of the premiſed, We declare the Preparations of two Bodies likewiſe. But firſt of Venus, afterward of Mars. The way of the Preparation of Venus is manifold. One way is by Elevation, but another is compleated without Elevation. The way by Elevation is, that Tutia be taken, with which Venus well agrees, and that it be ingeniouſly united with it. Then it muſt be put in its Veſſel of Sublimation to be ſublimed, and by a moſt excelling degree of Fire its more ſubtile part elevated; which will be found of moſt bright Splendor. Or it may be mixed with Sulphur, and then elevated by its now mentioned way of Elevation. But without Sublimation, it is prepared, either by cleanſing Things, in its Calx, or in its Body; as by Tutia, Salt, and Allomes, or by a Lavament of Argentvive, the way of which We have given: or elſe by Calcination and Reduction of that, which is diſſolved into the Nature of Body; or (as We ſaid) it is cleanſed by a Lavament of Argentvive, as all other Bodies diminiſhed from Perfection are.

CHAP. VI.

Of the Preparation of Mars.

THe Preparations of Mars are likewiſe manifold. For ſome are compleated by Sublimation, and ſome without Sublimation. That which is made by Sublimation, is with Arſnick, and that in this manner: We endeavour to unite with it Arſnick not fixed, as profoundly as We can; that in Fuſion it may melt with the ſame. But afterward it is ſublimed in a proper Veſſel of Sublimation. And this Preparation, among all other, is found the beſt and moſt perfect. There is alſo another Preparation of Mars, by Arſnick ſublimed often times from it, until ſome Quantity of the Arſnick it ſelf remain. For if this be reduced, it will flow out white, clean, fuſible, and well prepared. There is likewiſe a third way of Preparation of the ſame, by Fuſion of it with Lead and Tutia. For from theſe it flows clean and white.

But becauſe We ſeem not to have ſpoken ſufficiently, having before promiſed We would determinately ſpeak of the Ingenious Mollification of Hard Bodies, and of the Induration (or Hardening) of the Soft, by way of Calcination; therefore We muſt not omit that, but will firſt ſpeak of the Soft, and afterward of the Hard. The way is thus: Argentvive precipitated muſt be diſſolved, and the calcined Body (which you have intention to harden) diſſolved likewiſe. Both theſe Solutions muſt be mixed together, and the calcined Body mixed with them by frequent Imbibitions, &c. continually grinding, imbibing, calcining, and reducing, until it be made hard and fuſible with Ignition. The very ſame may alſo compleatly be effected, with the Calx of Bodies, and Tutia and Marchaſite, calcined, diſſolved, and imbibed. And indeed, the more clean theſe are, ſo much the more perfectly do they change.

Even ſo, hard Bodies are made ſoft with like Ingenuity; the way is this: They muſt be conjoyned and ſublimed often with Arſnick, and after ſublimation of the Arſnick aſſated (or calcined) with their due Proportion of Fire; the meaſure of which We have declared in our Book of Furnaces. And laſtly, they are reduced with the force of their proper Fire (mentioned in its place) until in Fuſion they wax ſoft, according to the Exigency of the hardneſs of the Body. And indeed all theſe Alterations are of the firſt Order, without which our Magiſtery is not perfected.

CHAP. VII.

Of the Mundification of Argentvive.

THerefore, 'tis now neceſſary compleatly to declare the Mundification of Argentvive. In order to which, We ſay, Argentvive is cleanſed two ways; either by Sublimation, of which We ſhewed the way already; or by a Lavament, of which the way is this: Pour Argentvive into an Earthen or Stone Diſh, and upon it pour as much Vinegar as is ſufficient to cover it. Then ſet it over a gentle Fire, and let it heat ſo far, as you may well hold your fingers in it, and not more. This being done, ſtir it about with your Fingers, until it be divided into moſt ſmall particles, in the ſimilitude of Powder; and continue ſtirring it, until all the Vinegar you put in be wholly conſumed. Then waſh the Earthineſs remaining with Vinegar, and caſt that away: repeating the ſame waſhing ſo often, as until the Earthineſs of the Mercury be changed into a moſt perfect Coeleſtine Colour, which is a ſign it is perfectly waſhed. From theſe, We muſt now paſs to Medicines.

CHAP. VIII.

That five different Properties of Perfection neceſſarily conſtitute a moſt perfect Medicine: whence it may be conjectured, from what Things this Medicine is to be taken.

WE firſt offer an Ʋniverſal Diſcourſe, touching Medicines, with their Cauſes, and manifeſt Experiences. We therefore affirm, that unleſs every Thing ſuperfluous (either by Medicine or by the way of Preparation) be taken away from imperfect Bodies; that is to ſay, if from them be not removed every ſuperfluous Sulphureity, and every unclean Earthineſs, they cannot be purified, viz. ſo, as that in Fuſion they be not ſeparated from the Commixtion, after projection of the Medicine altering them. When you have found this, you have found one of the five Differencies of Perfection. Likewiſe, if the Medicine do not illuſtrate and alter into a White or Citrine Colour (according to what your intent is) which infers a ſplendent Brightneſs, and pleaſant Lucidity, Bodies diminiſhed from Perfection are not perfected in an intire Compleatment. Moreover, if to it you give not Lunar, or Solar Fuſion, determinately, the Body is not alterable in Compleatment; becauſe it abides not in the Tryals: but is altogether ſeparated, and recedes from the Commixtion. But this, more amply determined by us, is demonſtrated in the following, in the Chapter of Cineritium. Fourthly, if the Medicine be not perpetuated with firm Alteration of Impreſſion, the Mutation of it avails not, becauſe it is not permanent, but the Impreſſion vaniſheth. Laſtly, If it give not Weights of Perfection, it changeth not with a firm and true Compleatment of Nature, in which no fraud may be admitted through the Error of Credulity. For the Weight of Nature is one of the ſigns of Perfection.

Therefore, ſeeing the Differencies of Perfection are five, it is manifeſt, that there is a neceſſity, the Medicine of our Magiſtery ſhould exhibit theſe Differencies in Projection. By this, it is apparent, from what Things our Medicine ſhould be extracted. For it muſt be prepared of thoſe Things, which nearly adjoyned to Bodies, readily alter, and amicable adhere to them in their profundity. Wherefore, We, ſearching into all other Things, by our Inveſtigation found not any other Thing more friendly to the Natures of Bodies, than Argentvive, prepared by this our Work; We clearly diſcerned it to be the true Medicine of Alterables in Compleatment, with a true and not moderately peculiar Alteration.

CHAP. IX.

Of Preparations to be adhibited to the Medicine, that it may acquire the due Differencies of Properties.

NOW it remains, that We determinately deſcribe the Subſtance thereof, and the Differencies of the Properties of the Subſtance. And ſeeing We found it not to change, without the Adminiſtration of Alteration of its Nature, We alſo found that it ought neceſſarily to be prepared; becauſe it cannot be mixed in the profundity of Bodies, without the Method of its Preparation. Which is, that the Subſtance of it be made ſuch, as it may be permixed in the profundity, even to the profundity of the Body alterable, without Separation for ever. But this cannot be effected, unleſs it be very much ſubtiliated, with certain and determinate Preparation mentioned in the Chapter of Sublimation. Likewiſe, its Impreſſion cannot be permanent, unleſs it be fixed; nor can it illuſtrate, unleſs its moſt ſplendid Subſtance be extracted from it, with the Ingenuity of its Method, and Way of Operation, by congruous Fire. Alſo this Medicine cannot have perfect Fuſion, unleſs great Caution be uſed in its Fixation, that it may ſoften hard Bodies, and harden the ſoft. For it is only ſuch, when a ſufficiency of its Humidity is preſerved, proportionate to the Exigency of that Fuſion which is ſought.

Therefore, by the fore-going, 'tis evident, that ſuch a Preparation ſhould be adminiſtred to it, as by which, of it may be created a moſt fulgent and purely clean Subſtance. Then it muſt be fixed, but with very great Caution, viz. the Artificer muſt be ſo well skilled in the Adminiſtration of Fire, in the Way of its Fixation, that he may only ſo far remove the Humidity, as ſhall be ſufficient for compleating perfect Fuſion. The way of effecting this, is thus: If you would by this Medicine mollifie Bodies hard of Fuſion, in the beginning of its Creation, a gentle Fire muſt be adhibited. For gentle Fire is Conſervative of Humidity, and Perfective of Fuſion. But if you would have it harden ſoft Bodies, its Fire muſt be vehement. For ſuch Fire is Conſumptive of Humidity, and hindring Fuſion. And indeed, it is expedient for every well minded Artificer, to conſider all theſe Rules. Alſo, there is a neceſſity of many other Conſiderations of the Weight, with their Cauſes, and congruous Order. For the Cauſe of great Weight is the Subtilety of the Subſtance of Bodies, and Ʋniformity in the Eſſence. And by this, the parts of them may be ſo condenſate, as nothing can come between; and the Denſation of Parts is the encreaſe of Weight, and the Perfection thereof.

CHAP. X.

Of the Differencies of Medicines, viz. that ſome are of the firſt Order, ſome of the ſecond, and others of the third.

THerefore it is evident, that Subtility is neceſſarily required, as well in the Preparation of Bodies, as in the Way of perfecting the Medicine by the Artifices of the Work: becauſe of how much the greater Weight Bodies to be tranſmuted are, of ſo much and greater perfection they are found in our Inveſtigation by Art. Wherefore, our Diſcourſe of Medicines will be rendred profitable, if We declare the Differencies of all Medicines. In order to which, We ſay, there is neceſſarily a threefold Difference of Medicines. One is of the firſt Order, another of the ſecond, and another of the third.

A Medicine of the firſt Order, I call every Preparation of Minerals, which projected upon Bodies diminiſhed from Perfection, impreſſeth Alteration: which infers not a ſufficient Compleatment, but the altered Body happens to be changed and corrupted, with the total Evaporation of the Impreſſion of the Medicine thereof: As is every Sublimation dealbative of Venus, or Mars, which receives not Fixation. And of this kind is every Additament of the Colour of Sol, and Luna, or of Venus commixed, and ſet in a Furnace of Cementation, as Ziniar, and the like. For this changeth with a Mutation not durable, but rather diminiſhing it ſelf by Exhalation.

A Medicine of the ſecond Order, I call every Preparation, which, when it is projected upon Bodies diminiſhed from Perfection, alters them, to ſome Difference of Compleatment, altogether leaving the other Differencies of Corruption; as is the Calcination of Bodies, by which all that is fugitive is burnt away. And of this kind is a Medicine colouring Luna perpetually yellow, or perpetually dealbating Venus, leaving other Differencies of Corruption in them.

A Medicine of the third Order I call every Preparation, which, when it comes to Bodies, with its projection, takes away all Corruption, and perfects them with the Difference of all Compleatment. But this is one only. And therefore, by it, We are excuſed from the Labours of the Invention of ten Medicines of the ſecond Order.

Therefore the Work of the firſt Order is called the Leſſer,; the Work of the ſecond, the Middle; but of the third, the Greater Work. And this Difference of all Medicines is ſufficient.

CHAP. XI.

Of the Medicine of the firſt Order, dealbating Venus.

ACcording to our Promiſe, We intend to declare the Differencies of all Medicines of a determinate Order (ſeeing there is one Medicine of Bodies, and another of Argentvive: and of Bodies, one is of the firſt Order, another of the ſecond, and another of the third; and ſo of Argentvive likewiſe) firſt, of the firſt; then of the ſecond; and laſtly, of the third Order. And We will in a compleat ſpeech, and congruous Order, firſt ſpeak of the Medicine of Bodies, but afterward of Argentvive. Therefore, touching the Medicine of Bodies, of the firſt Order, We ſay, there is one of hard Bodies, another of the ſoft. Of hard Bodies, one is of Venus, another of Mars, another of Luna. That of Venus and Mars is the pure Dealbation of their Subſtance; but Luna, the Rubification of it, with Citrinity of a pleaſing Brightneſs. For Rubification with apparent Brightneſs is not given to Venus and Mars, by Medicine of the firſt Order; becauſe they being totally unclean, are unapt to receive the ſplendor of Redneſs, before they have been prepared with a Preparation inducing Brightneſs.

Therefore We will firſt ſpeak of all the Medicines of Venus, and afterward of Mars, which are compriſed in the firſt Order. There is one Medicine whitening Venus, by Argentvive, and another by Arſnick. By Argentvive, the Medicine dealbating it is thus compleated. Firſt Argentvive precipitated is diſſolved, then calcined Venus diſſolved likewiſe. Both theſe Solutions are mixed in one, and projected upon the Body of Venus, after they are coagulated. This Medicine whitens and cleanſeth Venus. Again otherwiſe: Argentvive and Lithargiry are diſſolved apart, and the Solutions joyned together; then a Calcination of the Body, which is intended to be Whitened, is diſſolved likewiſe, and that Solution joyned with the former, and then coagulated together: this Coagulate is projected upon the Body, and that is dealbated thereby. Otherwiſe, a Quantity of Argentvive is ſublimed often from its Body, until part thereof remain with it, with compleat Ignition. Then this Mixture is very often imbibed and ground with diſtilled Vinegar, that it may the better be mixed in the profundity thereof; then it is aſſated (or moderately calcined) and laſtly freſh Argentvive is in like manner ſublimed from it, and the remaining Matter again imbibed, and moderately calcined as before. And this Work is ſo often repeated, as until a large Quantity of the Argentvive reſide in it with compleat Ignition. This is a good Dealbation of the firſt Order. Otherwiſe: Argentvive in its proper Nature, is ſo often ſublimed from Argentvive precipitated, until in it the ſame is fixed, and admits good Fuſion. This fuſed Matter is projected upon the Subſtance of Venus, and that is peculiarly whitened. Otherwiſe Luna, and Lithargiry are diſſolved apart, and the Solutions conjoyned; and with them the Subſtance of Venus dealbated. But indeed, Venus is better whitened, if Argentvive be perpetuated in all the Medicines.

It is whitened by Arſnick ſublimed, thus: the Calcinate of Venus is taken, and upon that is repeated the Sublimation of Arſnick, until it remain therewith, and whiten it. But if you be not well skilled in the ways of Sublimation, Arſnick will not perſevere in it with any Alteration. Therefore, after the firſt Degree of Sublimation, ſecondarily repeat the Work, after the ſame manner, as we taught in the Sublimation of Marchaſite. Alſo Venus is otherwiſe Whitened: for if you project Arſnick ſublimed upon Luna, and then the whole upon Venus, it dealbates that peculiarly. Or firſt mix Lithargiry, or burnt Lead diſſolved, with Luna, and upon theſe caſt Arſnick and project the whole upon Venus, and ſo it will be Whitened. And this is a good Dealbation of the firſt Order. Or, upon Lithargiry alone diſſolved and reduced, project Arſnick ſublimed, and the whole of this upon Venus in flux: for it whitens the ſame with a curious Aſpect.

Or let Luna and Venus be commixed, and upon them project either of theſe above dealbative Medicines: For Luna is more friendly to Arſnick, than to any one of the Bodies, and therefore takes away Fraction from it: but Saturn ſecondarily, and therefore We mix it with them. But otherwiſe, We melt Arſnick ſublimed, that it may be all in a lump; which being broken, We project piece after piece upon Venus. We command it to be projected in pieces, rather than in Powder; becauſe Powder is more eaſily inflamed, than a lump; and therefore more eaſily vaniſheth, than it, and is conſumed before it can fall fiery hot upon the Body.

In like manner the Redneſs is taken away from Venus, and it is whitened with Tutia. But becauſe the Dealbation of Tutia ſufficeth not, therefore it only gives a Citrine Colour. Yet every Citrination is of affinity to Whiteneſs. The way of this is thus: every kind of Tutia is calcined and diſſolved, and Venus likewiſe; then both theſe Solutions are conjoyned, and with them the Subſtance of Venus is citrinated. If you be well skilled in working with Tutia, you will find profit. But it is whitened with Marchaſite ſublimed, as with Sublimate Argentvive, and the way is the ſame.

CHAP. XII.

Of Medicines dealbating Mars.

IT remains now, that We declare the Dealbations of Mars, by Medicines proper to it; which are, as to its Eſſence, of the firſt Order, according to which it hath not right Fuſion. Therefore 'tis expedient We ſhould dealbate it with a Medicine making it to flow. Every dealbative Medicine of Venus and Mars likewiſe, is with its preparation of the ſame Order. But the ſpecial fuſive of it, is Arſnick of every kind. Therefore, with which ſoever it is dealbated and fuſed, it is convenient it ſhould be conjoyned, and waſhed with Argentvive, until all its Impurity be removed, and it be White, and fuſible: or elſe let it be red hot with vehement Ignition, and upon it Arſnick projected; and when it ſhall be in flux, caſt a Quantity of Luna thereon. For when that is united with it, it is not ſeparated there-from by any eaſie Artifice.

Or elſe, let Mars be calcined, and all its Soluble Aluminoſity, inferring Corruption, waſhed from it, by the way of Solution now mentioned. But afterward, cauſe cleanſed Arſnick to be ſublimed from it, and reiterate that Sublimation many times, until ſome part of the Arſnick be fixed therewith. Then, with a Solution of Lithargiry mix, imbibe, grind, and moderately calcine, ſeveral times; and laſtly reduce it with the Fire We taught in the Reduction of Jupiter from its Calx. For from this it will go forth white, clean and fuſible. Or only with ſublimed Arſnick, in its Calx, let it be reduced, and it will flow out white, clean, and fuſible. But 'tis expedient the Artificer ſhould here obſerve the ſame Caution We gave above of Venus, in Reiteration of Sublimation of Arſnick (fixing it ſelf in its profundity) from it. Mars is likewiſe whitened by Marchaſite and Tutia, with the ſame Ingenuity and Induſtry We have declared. Yet the Dealbation, or Cleanſing of theſe is not ſufficient.

CHAP. XIII.

Of Medicines citrinating (or colouring) Luna.

THerefore proſecuting the Order of the Premiſes, We with certain verity declare the Medicine (citrinating the Subſtance of Luna) in the Order of the firſt kind. This Medicine is that which adheres to the ſame in its profundity, and adhering colours, either by its proper Nature, or by the Artifice of this Magiſtery. Therefore, We declare that Medicine, which, ariſing from its own root, adheres to it. But there are Artifices, by which We make a Thing of every kind to adhere, with firm Ingreſs. Yet this Medicine We extract either from Sulphur, or from Argentvive, or from a Commixtion of both: by Sulphur more diminiſhedly, but by Argentvive more perfectly. Alſo this Medicine is made of certain Mineral Things, which are not of this kind; as is Vitriol and Copperas, which alſo is called Gum of Copper, and Stillacidy (or Diſtillation) of the ſame. Therefore firſt We will mention all the Methods of Medicines, which ariſe from Argentvive; then, thoſe that are from Sulphur, or from a Commixtion of both; and laſtly that Medicine, which is from the Gum of Copper, or the like.

The Method of that, which is made by Argentvive, is this: Take Argentvive precipitate, viz. mortified and fixed by Precipitation; then put it in a Furnace of great Ignition, after the manner of Conſervation of Calxes, which We have already taught, until it be red as Ʋſifur. But if it be not red, take a part of Argentvive not mortified, and with Sulphur reiterate the Sublimation thereof. Yet the Sulphur muſt be cleanſed from all Impurity, and the Argentvive likewiſe. And after you have twenty times repeated the Sublimation of it upon the Precipitate, diſſolve that with the diſſolving ſharpneſs of Waters, and again calcine and diſſolve it, until it be exuberantly ſufficient. After this, diſſolve a part of Luna, and when diſſolved, mix the Solutions, and Coagulate them, and project the Coagulate upon Luna in flux. For it will colour it much with a peculiar Citrinity. But if Argentvive in its precipitation be red, the aforeſaid Adminiſtration, without Commixtion of any Thing tinging it, is ſufficient for the perfection of its projection.

By Sulphur, Luna is alſo rubified, but its Rubification is difficult, and immenſly laborious. Luna is likewiſe citrinated with a Solution of Mars: but the neceſſity of this Work induceth us firſt to calcine it, and then to fix, which is an abundance of Labour. Afterward We adminiſter it with the ſame Preparation, and the ſame Projection, pouring it upon the Subſtance of Luna. And yet thence reſults not a ſplendid bright Colour, but dull and livid, with a mortiferous Citrinity.

But the way of colouring it, which is made by Vitriol, or Copperas, is thus: ℞ of either of them a certain Quantity, and ſublime as much thereof, as can be ſublimed, until with great expreſſion of Fire it be ſublimed. After this again ſublime this Sublimate with Fire appropriate to it, that of it part after part may be fixed, until its greater part is fixed. But afterward, it muſt be warily calcined, that a greater Fire may be adminiſtred for its Perfection. This being done, it is diſſolved into a moſt Red Water, that hath not its Peer. Then ſo operate, as you may give it Ingreſs into the Lunar Body. Theſe Proceſſes are ſufficiently demonſtrated to you, if you be a true Searcher of the perfect Work, as We have deſcribed it. For We, ſeeing things of this kind profoundly and amicably to adhere to Luna, have conſidered (and it is certain) that theſe are from its own Radix; and thence it is, that Luna is altered by them. Theſe Medicines, which We have here inferred, are all of the firſt Order. Yet there may be manifold other Methods of theſe Medicines, ſalving the Eſſence of Pigmental Things, in the Variety of Methods. For the Medicine of Argentvive is not in this firſt Order, ſeeing it is not a Medicine altering Luna with one only Difference, but altogether in total Compleatment. Others have invented many Medicines, yet one of theſe two neceſſarily happens, viz. either they are conſtrained to create the Medicine of the ſame Things, or of Things having the ſame Nature; or elſe they compound a Medicine, which with its Alteration is equivalent to that, which it is not, and which neither confers to the Clean, nor to the Parts of the Clean, until the Mover, in the ſublime Mobile of Nature, reſts uncorrupt.

CHAP. XIV.

Of the Difference of Properties of Medicines of the ſecond Order.

NOW it is time We ſhould paſs on to Medicines of the ſecond Order, with a Diſcourſe truly ſufficient according to their Exigency, and manifeſt Probations, with true Experience. Therefore, ſeeing the Medicine of Bodies to be cleanſed is one, but of Argentvive perfectly coagulable another; We will firſt of all compleatly declare the Medicines of Bodies, and afterward the Medicine of the ſame Argentvive coagulable into a true Solifick, and Lunifick, or Solar and Lunar Body.

A Medicine of the ſecond Order is that, which doth indeed compleat imperfect Bodies; but with one only difference of Perfection. Yet ſeeing there are many Cauſes of Corruption in every of the imperfect Bodies, viz. in Saturn, a volatile Sulphureity, flight of its Argentvive (by both which Corruption muſt neceſſarily be induced) and its Terreſtreity; therefore the Medicine is made ſo, as it can indeed totally remove one of them, or covering it adorn the ſame; only leaving all other Cauſes of Imperfection. Therefore, foraſmuch as in Bodies there is ſomewhat impermutable, which is innate in their Radix, and which cannot be taken away by Medicine of the ſecond Order; that Medicine, which totally removes that from the Mixtion, is not called Medicine of the ſecond, but of the third and greater Order. And, becauſe We found Superfluities of things volatile to be removed by the way of Calcination, and the Earthineſs not innate aboliſhed by reiteration of Reduction; therefore, there was a neceſſity of inventing a Medicine of the ſecond Order, which might indeed palliate (or cover) the innate, and mollifie the hard, and harden the ſoft, viz. in hard and ſoft Bodies, according to Compleatment, not ſophiſtical; but perfectly conſtitute a true Solifick, or Lunifick, of imperfect Bodies.

Therefore, ſeeing it is manifeſt, that in Bodies only ſoft, the ſwiftneſs of Liquefaction cannot be taken away by the ingenious Artifices of this Work, nor the Impurity innate in the Radix of their Principles removed; the invention of a Medicine neceſſarily happened, that in projection could inſpiſſate the Tenuity of them, and inſpiſſating harden the ſame to a Sufficiency of Ignition with their Liquefafaction; and likewiſe in hard Bodies, attenuate their Spiſſitude, and attenuating deduce them to ſufficient Velocity of Liquefaction, with their own property of Ignition; and palliating adorn the Clowdineſs of Bodies of either Kind; and transform the one into White, and the other into Red, moſt perfect.

This Medicine is not diverſified from a Medicine of the third Order, unleſs by the Imperfection of leſſer Preparation. And that it is not diverſified from it ſelf, is manifeſt, in the Projection of diverſe Bodies, and its Acceptation of Pigments; but in the way of Preparation only. For the Medicine inſpiſſating the Tenuity of ſoft Bodies, needs one induſtry of Preparation; but, attenuating the Spiſſitude of hard Bodies, another. Theſe indeed need the Method of Conſumptive Fire; but thoſe, the Adminiſtration of Conſervation of their Humidity.

CHAP. XV.

Of a Medicine Lunar and Solar, for imperfect Bodies.

WE now intend to compleat our Ʋniverſal Diſcourſe of the Medicine of this ſecond Order, with a certain and true determination. And firſt We will deſcribe the Lunar Medicines of all imperfect Bodies, with the Differencies of their Preparations: afterward the Solar, with their proper Differencies likewiſe. We have already proved in our Diſcourſe, that Sulphur is Corruptive of every kind of Perfection. But Argentvive is Perfective in the Works of Nature, with compleat Regimens. Therefore We alſo, not changing, but imitating Nature, in what Works it is poſſible for Us to follow her; do likewiſe aſſume Argentvive in the Magiſtery of this Work, for a Medicine of each kind of Perfection, viz. Lunar and Solar, as well of imperfect Bodies, as of Argentvive Coagulable. But ſeeing, according to what We above-mentioned, We have ſaid, that there is a twofold Difference of Medicine; one of Bodies, but the other of Argentvive truly coagulable; We are hence induced to give a certain Narration of Bodies firſt, and afterwards of Argentvive.

The Matter, per ſe, of this Medicine of every kind, is one only; and it is what is already ſufficiently known. Therefore take that, and if you would work according to the Lunar Order, We promiſed to ſhew, learn to be expert in Operating, and prepare That, with the known Ways of this Magiſtery. The intention of which is, that you ſhould divide the pure Subſtance from it, and fix part thereof; but leave a part for Cerating; and ſo proceeding through the whole Magiſtery, until you compleat its deſired Fuſion. If it ſuddenly flow in hard Bodies, it is perfect; but in ſoft Bodies, the contrary. For this Medicine projected upon any of the imperfect Bodies, changeth it into a perfect Lunar Body, if the known Preparations have been firſt adhibited to this Medicine; but if not, it leaves the ſame diminiſhed, yet in one only difference of Perfection, it perfects, as much as depends on the Adminiſtration of the Order of a Medicine of this kind. But according to the third Order, a certain due Adminiſtration not preceding, it perfects in Projection only.

A Solar Medicine (of this ſecond Order) of every of the imperfect Bodies, is the ſame Matter, and participates of the ſame Regimen of Preparation. Yet in this it differs, viz. that in the greater Subtiliation of Parts, by proper Ways of Digeſtion, and in the Commixtion of ſubtile Sulphur (with the Regimen of Preparation adminiſtred) with addition of the Matter now known. The Regimen of it, is the Fixation of pure Sulphur, and the Solution thereof, as is known. For with this the Medicine is tinged, and with it projected upon every of the Bodies diminiſhed from Perfection, it compleates the ſame in a Solar Compleatment, as much as depends on the Preparation of a Medicine of this ſecond Order; the known and certain Adminiſtration of the Body diminiſhed preceding. Alſo the ſame projected upon Luna, perfects it much, in a peculiar Solar compleatment.

CHAP. XVI.

Of the Medicine Coagulating Argentvive.

ACcording to the Order of the Premiſes, it concerns us, for Compleatment of the Work, to proceed to the Narration of the Medicine coagulating Argentvive. Therefore We ſay it is taken, from ſuch Matter, as the Matter of it ſelf is, viz. according as is ſpecified in many Chapters of this Work. And that is, becauſe Argentvive, ſeeing it is eaſily fugitive, without any Inflamation, may ſuddenly adhere to it, in its profundity, and be conjoyned with it through its leaſt parts, and likewiſe inſpiſſate, and conſerve it in Fire by its own Fixation; until it be better able to ſuſtain the force of Fire, conſuming its Humidity; and convert it, by the benefit of this in a Moment, into true Solifick and Lunifick, according to that, for which the Medicine was prepared.

But ſeeing We find not any Thing more to agree with it, than That, which is of its own Nature; therefore, by reaſon of this We judged, that with that the Medicine thereof might be compleated; and We endeavoured by Ingenuity to make the Form of the Medicine agreeable to the ſame. That is to ſay, it muſt be prepared, in the Method and Way now mentioned, with the inſtance of long continued Labour; by which all the ſubtile, and moſt pure Subſtance of it may be rendered perfectly White in Luna, but intenſly Citrine in Sol. Yet this cannot be compleated ſo, as to create a Citrine Colour, without the Mixtion of a Thing tinging it, which is of its own Nature. But, with this moſt pure Subſtance of Argentvive the Medicine is perfected, by the Ingenuities of the Work of this Magiſtery, which moſt nearly adheres to Argentvive, and is moſt eaſily fluxed, and coagulates it. For it converts it into a true Solifick, and Lunifick, with preparation of that always preceding.

The grand Queſtion is, from what things this Subſtance of Argentvive may beſt be extracted. To which, We anſwering ſay, It muſt be taken from thoſe Things, in which it is. But, according to Nature, it is as well in Bodies, as in Argentvive it ſelf, ſeeing they are found to be of one Nature. In Bodies more difficultly, in Argentvive more nigh, but not more perfectly. Therefore, of what kind ſoever the Medicine is to be, the Medicine of the precious Stone muſt be as well ſought in Bodies, as in the Subſtance of Argentvive.

CHAP. XVII.

How Ingreſs is procured in Medicines by Artifice.

BUt, becauſe it happens, that a Medicine is ſometimes mixed, ſometimes not; therefore We will declare the Way of permixing, viz. how every Thing, or each peculiar Medicine not entring, may moſt profoundly acquire Ingreſs into a Body. The Way is, by Diſſolution of that which enters, and by Diſſolution of that which enters not, and by Commixtion of both Solutions. For it makes every Thing to be ingreſſive, of what kind ſoever it be, that is through its leaſt parts conjoyned with it. Yet this is compleated by Solution; and Fuſion, in things not fuſible, is compleated by the ſame; therefore, they are the more apt to have Ingreſs, and to alter. This is the Cauſe, why We calcine ſome things, which are not of the Nature of theſe, viz. that they may the better be diſſolved; and they are diſſolved, that Bodies may the better receive Impreſſion from them, and from them likewiſe, by theſe, be prepared and cleanſed. Or We give Ingreſs to theſe, which are not permitted to enter by reaſon of their Spiſſitude, with manifold reiteration of the Sublimation, of Spirits not inflamable upon them, viz. of Arſnick, and Argentvive not fixed; or with manifold Repetition of the Solution of that which hath not Ingreſs.

Yet, a good Caution for giving Ingreſs to Things impermixable, is that the Body be diſſolved, which you would have to be changed and altered, by theſe; and the Things likewiſe diſſolved, which you would have both to enter and to alter. Nevertheleſs, Solution cannot be made of all Parts, but of ſome; with which this or that Body, not another, muſt be imbibed time after time. For by this benefit it hath Ingreſs only into this, or that neceſſarily; but this doth not neceſſarily happen in any other Body. Therefore every Thing muſt needs have Ingreſs by theſe Ways, by the benefit whereof it depends on the Nature of that, to have ingreſs (as We ſaid) and to alter, with Commixtion found out. By this precedent Diſcourſe is compleated the Number of ten Medicines, with a ſufficient Tractation of them.

CHAP. XVIII.

Of the Medicines of the third Order in General.

THerefore now We proceed to the Medicine of the third Order. Of this Order there is a twofold Medicine, viz. Solar and Lunar. Yet in Eſſence it is one, and in one Way of acting; and therefore by our Anceſtors, whoſe Writings We have read, it is called One only Medicine. Nevertheleſs there is an additament of a Citrine Colour, made of the moſt clean Subſtance of Fixed Sulphur, which conſtitutes the Difference between this and that, viz. the Lunar and Solar Medicine; this containing that Colour in it ſelf, but the other not. This Order is called the third Order of the greater Work: and that, becauſe greater Sagacity of Induſtry is required in the Adminiſtration thereof, and in the preparation of its Perfection; alſo it needs longer labour for Compleatment of the Verity of the ſame.

Therefore the Medicine of this Order is not diverſe in Eſſence from the Medicine of the ſecond Order, unleſs by the moſt ſubtile Degrees of Preparation in Creation of it, and by the long continued Inſtance of Labour. All theſe Degrees We intend to declare with compleatment of Speech, and exactly ſhew the Way of Preparation, with its Cauſes and manifeſt Experiences; and the many Degrees alſo of Ways of Preparation of this third Order. For the Solar Medicine needs one Way, in compleat Preparation of Pigments; but the Lunar another. The firſt indeed, with the Adminiſtration of Sulphur tinging it; but the ſecond, not.

CHAP. XIX.

Of the Lunar Medicine of the third Order.

FIrſt, We will declare the way of Adminiſtration of the Lunar Medicine, which is thus: ℞ the known Stone of it, and by the Way of Separation divide its moſt pure Subſtance, and keep it apart. Then fix ſome of that Part, which is moſt pure, leaving the Remainder. And when it ſhall be fixed, diſſolve what is ſoluble of it, but what is not ſoluble, put to be calcined; and again diſſolve the Calcinate, until again what is ſoluble of it be altogether diſſolved. Continue this Proceſs, until the greater Quantity be diſſolved. Then mix all the Solutions together, and coagulate them. This being done, gently cocting, keep the Coagulate in a Temperate Fire, until greater Fire may commodiouſly be adminiſtred for its Perfection. Therefore reiterate all theſe Orders of Preparation upon it four times, and laſtly calcine it by its own way: for ſo adminiſtring you have ſufficiently governed the moſt precious Earth of the Stone. Then by the ſubtile Way of Ingenuity, conjoyn a Quantity of the part above reſerved, with part of this prepared Earth, through its leaſt particles. This being done, with Intention of Elevation, ſublime it by the aforeſaid way of Sublimation, until the fixed with the not fixed, be totally elevated. Which if you ſee not, again add a Quantity of the not fixed Part, until enough be added for Elevation thereof. Therefore, when it ſhall be once all elevated, repeat its Sublimation, until by repetition of this Operation, it be totally fixed. When it ſhall be fixed, again imbibe it with Quantity after Quantity of the not fixed, by the Way to you known, until the whole ſhall again be elevated. Then aagain fix it, until it have eaſie Fuſion, with its Ignition. For this is the Medicine, which transforms every Body diminiſhed from Perfection, and every Argentvive of what kind ſoever, into a moſt perfect Lunar Body.

CHAP. XX.

Of the Solar Medicine of the third Order.

THE Preparation of this Solar Medicine, is made with the Additament of Sulphur not burning, by Way of Fixation, and Calcination, perfectly adminiſtred with ſubtile Induſtry; and by manifold repetition of Solution, until it be rendred Clean. For by the perfect Adminiſtration of theſe preceding, its cleanſing by Sublimation will be compleated. The Way of this Additament, is thus:

Reiterate the Sublimation of the not fixed part of the Stone, with this ſaid Sulphur, ingeniouſly conjoyning them, until they be firſt elevated together, and then fixed ſo, as to abide in the Heat of Fire without aſcenſion. The oftner this Order of compleating the Exuberancy, ſhall be repeated, the more will the Exuberancy of this Medicine be multiplied, and the more its Goodneſs augmented, and the Augmentation of the Perfection thereof highly multiplied alſo, We will here indeed, in a brief, compleat, and known Speech (to ſtop the envious Clamours of the Impious) declare the whole Compleatment of this Magiſtery; which thus take:

The Intention of it is, that by way of Sublimation, the Stone and its Additament may moſt perfectly be cleanſed; and accordingly by the Way of Ingenuity, the fugitive fixed in them. Afterward, the Fixed made Volatile, and the Volatile again fixed. And in this Order is compleated the moſt Precious Arcanum, which is above every Secret of the Sciences of this World, and is a Treaſure ineſtimable. Do you diſpoſe your ſelf by Exerciſe to it, with very great Inſtance of Labour, and with continuance of immenſe Meditation. For by theſe you will find it, but without them not. And indeed, in Preparation of the Stone, the Reiteration of the Goodneſs of Adminiſtration upon this Medicine, may with Induſtrious Warineſs be ſo far available, as to enable it to change Argentvive into an infinite true Solifick, and Lunifick, and not need any thing more, than its Multiplication.

Now let the High GOD of Nature, bleſſed and glorious, be praiſed, who hath revealed to Us the Series of all Medicines, with the Experience of them, which by the goodneſs of his Inſtigation, and by our own inceſſant Labour, We have ſearched out; and have ſeen with our Eyes, and handled with our Hands, the Compleatment thereof ſought in our Magiſtery. But if We have concealed this, let not the Son of Learning wonder, For We have not concealed it from him, but have delivered it in ſuch a Speech, as it muſt neceſſarily be hid from the evil, and unjuſt, and the unwiſe cannot diſcern it. Therefore, Sons of Doctrine, ſearch ye, and ye will find this moſt excellent Gift of GOD reſerved for you only. Ye Sons of Folly, Wickedneſs, and evil Manners, fly far away from this Science; becauſe it is inimical and adverſe to you, and will precipit you into the miſerable State of Poverty. For this Gift of GOD is abſolutely, by the Judgment of Divine Providence hid from you, and denyed you for ever.

Therefore, having inquired into the Ways of all Medicines, We, proſecuting our intended Purpoſe, muſt paſs hence to thoſe Things, which make known the Perfection of this Magiſtery, with the Cauſes of its Probations.

The Third and Laſt Part of this Second Book: Of the Probations of Perfection.

CHAP. I.

The Diviſion of what follows.

OMitting manifeſt Experiences, of which We make no mention, ſeeing they are known and certain to all, viz. of the Weight, Colour and Extenſion under the Hammer, which are diſcerned, without any Sagacity of Induſtry; We with Warineſs make Tryal by the Experiences of Artificers, Whether Projection of the Adminiſtration of this Art, be a Compleatment with Verity, inferring the ſame; which are Cineritium (or the Teſt called a Cupel) Cement, Ignition, Fuſion; Expoſition over acute Vapour, Probation of Burning Sulphur by Mixtion; Extinction, Reiteration of Calcination and Reduction, and the eaſie or difficult Suſception of Argentvive. Therefore We ſhall firſt ſpeak of theſe according to Order; and afterward, keeping the ſame Order, proceed to other things, which We intend (according to promiſe) to declare with the known Cauſes of them.

CHAP. II.

Of Cineritium, why ſome Bodies abide in it, but others not.

WE come firſt to ſpeak of Cineritium, with all its manifeſt Cauſes, and of the Way of its Confection. The Solar and Lunar Subſtance, is only permament in the Tryal of Cineritium. Therefore ſearching out the true Differencies of the Subſtance of theſe Perfect Bodies, and likewiſe the Cauſes of the Cinerition, We will make Tryal, which of the imperfect Bodies more, and which leſs abide in the Examen of this Magiſtery. Yet by Us is already ſufficiently declared the Secret of theſe two Bodies, in the Profundity of their Subſtance. And it is this, viz. that their firſt Radix was a large Quantity of Argentvive, and the pureſt Subſtance of it; at firſt moſt ſubtile, but afterward inſpiſſate, until it could admit Fuſion with Ignition. Therefore, whatſoever Bodies diminiſhed from Perfection, have more of Earthineſs, they leſs abide in this Examen; but what have leſs, more. Becauſe theſe do indeed more adhere, by reaſon of the ſubtilety of their Parts, cloſely permixing and uniting them. So likewiſe, Bodies that are of greater Tenuity; or on the contrary, of greater Spiſſitude, than thoſe which conſiſt in Perfection; muſt neceſſarily be altogether ſeperated from the Commixtion. For being not of the ſame Fuſion, therefore they are ſeparated. And indeed, Bodies, which partake of a leſſer Quantity of Argentvive, are more eaſily ſeparated from the Commixtion.

Therefore, 'tis evident, that ſeeing Saturn is of much Earthineſs, and contains a ſmall Quantity of Argentvive, and of an eaſie Tenuity of Liquefaction, which are moſtly oppoſite to the Perfection of a Cineritious Examen; therefore of all the Bodies, by the Artifice of the Cineritium, it indures leaſt in the Commixtion; yea, it is ſeparated, and vaniſheth moſt ſpeedily. Wherefore, ſeeing of all Bodies diminiſhed from Perfection it moſt gives way and recedes; by that it is more proper for the Examen of our Magiſtery; and the reaſon is, becauſe it ſooner takes it flight, and ſooner draws every of the imperfect Bodies with it ſelf from the Mixture. Alſo, by reaſon of this, the greater Quantity of the perfect Body is preſerved from the ſtrong Combuſtion of the Fire of the Examen; and therefore, by the Tryal of Lead it is leſs burnt, and more eaſily purified.

But becauſe the Subſtance of Jupiter contains more of Argentvive, and partakes of a leſſer Quantity of Earthineſs, and of greater Purity, and o[••] more ſubtile Subſtance of it, therefore it is more ſafe in the Mixtion, than Saturn and Venus; becauſe it more adheres in the Profundity thereof. And this is the Cauſe, why a larger Quantity of the perfect Body is abſumed, before Jupiter conjoyned can be ſeparated from the Commixtion. Yet Venus gives Fuſion with Ignition; but becauſe its Fuſion is ſlower, than of a perfect Body, therefore it is ſeparated from the Commixtion, yet more ſlowly than Saturn, by reaſon of the Ignition of its fuſible Subſtance. But becauſe it contains leſs of the Quantity of Argentvive, and is of greater Earthineſs, and of a more thick Subſtance, therefore it is more eaſily ſeparated from the Mixtion, than Jupiter; becauſe Jupiter more adheres in the Profundity, than Venus.

Mars hath not Fuſion, and therefore is not permixed; which happens, by reaſon of Deprivation of Humidity. But if it chance that it is permixed by Vehemency of Fire; then, becauſe it hath not Humidity, by imbibing the Humidity of Sol or Luna, it is united thereunto through its leaſt parts: therefore, although it hath much Earth, and little Argentvive, and wants Fuſion, yet it can by no ſlight Artifice be ſeparated from them. Therefore by this the Induſtry of the Artificer is dilated, unto the true Rectification of every Body, if he rightly know the Efficacy of That, which We have writ. But if he phantaſtically underſtand, he knows nothing of the Truth thereof. There are two Bodies of Perfection abiding this Tryal, viz. Sol and Luna, by reaſon of their good Compoſition, which reſults from their good Mixtion, and the pure Subſtance of them.

CHAP. III.

Of the Tryal of the Cineritium, (or Cupel) how it is to be compounded, and uſed.

NOW We ſpeak of the Way of making it, which is thus: Take ſifted Aſhes, or Calx, or Powder of the Bones of Animals burnt, or a Commixtion of all, or of ſome of them; moiſten theſe with Water, and make the Mixture firm and ſolid with your hand, and in the midſt of it, wrought into a round flatiſh Lump, make a round and ſmooth Hollowneſs, and upon the bottom of it ſtrew a ſmall Quantity of Glaſs beaten to Powder. Then permit it to be dryed. When dry, put that Metal into the Hollowneſs thereof, which you intend to try by this Examen, and put Coals of Fire upon it, and then with Bellows blow upon the Surface of the Examinable Body, until it flows. Upon which being in flux caſt part after part of Lead, and blow with a flame of ſtrong Ignition. Whilſt you ſee it agitated with the Motion of ſtrong Concuſſion, it is not pure. Therefore wait, until all the Lead be exhaled. If that be vaniſhed, and yet the Motion ceaſe not, it is not pure. Therefore again caſt Lead upon it, and blow as before, until the Lead vaniſh. If it do not yet reſt, repeat the caſting in of more Lead, and blowing upon it, until it be ſtill, or quiet, and you ſee it clean and clear in its Superficies. This being ſeen, open the Coals, and diſſipate the Fire, and then pour Water upon the Surface thereof. For you will find it perfectly examined. If whilſt you are blowing this Examen, you caſt in Glaſs, the Body will be the better and more perfectly purified; becauſe that takes away the Impurities, and ſeparates them. Yet inſtead of Glaſs, Sal, Borax, or a little Allom, may be caſt in. In like manner this Examen of Cineritium may be made in a Crucible of Earth, if the Fire round about it be blowed, and upon the Surface alſo of the Crucible, that the Body to be examined may the ſooner flow, and be perfected.

Theſe being ſufficiently declared, We now paſs to the Examen of Cement, with its Cauſes, and manifeſt and known Experiences.

CHAP. IV.

Of Cement, why ſome Bodies ſuſtain it more, and others leſs.

WE have ſaid, that ſome Bodies more, and others leſs, are burned by the Calcination of Fire, viz. they which contain a greater Quantity of burning Sulphur, more; but they that contain leſs, leſs. Therefore, ſeeing Sol hath a leſs Quantity of Sulphur, than other Metallick Bodies, it is not (in the midſt of all Mineral Bodies) burnt by Inflammation of Fire. And Luna, next to Sol, partakes of a leſs Quantity of Sulphur, than the other four Bodies, yet more than Sol. Therefore, according to this, it can leſs bear the Ignition of Inflammation for a long ſpace of time, than Sol; and by conſequence leſs bear Things burning by a like Nature, but Venus leſs than it; becauſe it conſiſts of more Sulphur, and of greater Earthineſs, than Luna; therefore can leſs bear the Inflammation of Fire. Jupiter leſs alſo than Sol or Luna, becauſe it partakes of greater Sulphureity and Earthineſs, than either of them; yet it is leſs burnt by Inflammation, than Venus, but more than Sol and Luna. Saturn in its Commixtion by Nature, holds more of Earthineſs and Sulphureity, than any of theſe now mentioned Bodies; therefore it is ſooner and more eaſily inflamed, than all the ſaid Bodies; and by inflamation it is more ſwiftly burnt, becauſe it hath Sulphureity more nearly conjoyned, and more fixed than Jupiter.

Mars is not burnt by it ſelf, but by Accident. For when it is mixed with Bodies of much Humidity, it imbibes that Humidity, by reaſon of its own Want of the ſame; and therefore being conjoyned, it is neither inflamed nor burned, if the Bodies, with which it is Ʋnited, be neither inflamable, nor combuſtible. But if combuſtible Bodies be mixed with it, it neceſſarily happens (according to the Nature of their Combuſtion) that Mars is burnt and inflamed. Therefore, ſeeing Cement is conſtituted of inflamable Things, the neceſſary Cauſe of its Invention is manifeſt; and it was, that all combuſtible Things might be burned. And ſince there is one only Body incombuſtible, that alone, or what is prepared according to the Nature of that, is kept ſafe in Cement. Yet ſome abide more, others leſs, in Cement: But which abide more, and which leſs, are known with their ſaid Cauſes. Therefore Luna abides Cement more, but Mars leſs, Jupiter leſs than Mars, and Venus leſs than Jupiter; but Saturn leaſt of all.

CHAP. V.

The Examen of Cement, how it is to be compounded and exerciſed.

NOW We will declare the Way of Cementing. Seeing it is known to Us, that Cement is very neceſſary, in the Examen of Perfection, We ſay it is compounded of inflamable Things. Of this kind are all blackening, flying, penetrating, and burning Things; as is Vitriol, Salarmoniac, Flos Aeris, and the ancient Fictile Stone, and a very ſmall Quantity (or nothing) of Sulphur, and Mans-Ʋrine, with like acute, and penetrating Things. All theſe are impaſted with Virile Ʋrine, and ſpread upon thin Plates of that Body, which you intend ſhall be examined by this way of Probation. Then the ſaid Plates muſt be laid upon a Grate of Iron included in an Earthen Veſſel; yet ſo, as one touch not the other, that the vertue of the Fire may have free and equal Acceſs to them. Thus the whole muſt be kept in Fire, in a ſtrong Earthen Veſſel, for the ſpace of three days. But here, great Caution is required, that the Plates may be kept fire-hot, but not melt. After the third Day, you will find the Plates cleanſed from all Impurity, if the Body of them was perfect: if not, they will be wholly corrupted, and burnt in the Calcination.

Some expoſe Plates of Metal to Calcination, without a compoſition of Cement, and they are purified in like manner, if the Body be of Perfection: if not, they are totally conſumed. Yet in this laſt Examen. they need a longer ſpace of time, that are thus purified by the only inflamation of Fire, than thoſe that are examined by the Judgment of Cement.

And ſeeing the Nature of Luna differs not much from the Nature of Sol, therefore by a certain neceſſary way of Adminiſtration, it reſts with it in the Tryal of Cement. And there is no Separation of Bodies each from other, in theſe two kinds of Tryal, unleſs that be occaſioned by reaſon of the Diverſity of Compoſition of their Subſtances: becauſe thence reſults Diverſity of Fuſion, and Spiſſitude and Rarity. Which are indeed the Cauſes of Separation; becauſe, by reaſon of the ſtrong Compoſition of ſome, their Subſtance is not corrupted by the Subſtance of the Extraneous Body, ſeeing a Mixtion of them could not be made through their leaſt parts. Therefore, in ſuch a Commixtion, they muſt neceſſarily be ſeparated each from other, without the total Corruption of the Eſſence of them. Wherefore, the compleat Adminiſtration of imperfect Bodies, is diſcerned, when they are by Ingenuity of Preparation found to be of the ſame Fuſion, Ignition, and Solidity.

CHAP. VI.

Of Ignition.

IT remains now, that We treat of Ignition. Having declared, that Bodies of greateſt Perfection, with determinate Ignition, are found to receive the Fire, before Fuſion of them; therefore we here ſay, if our Aim be to find out the compleat Alteration of them, there is a neceſſity to bring ſuch Bodies to their Fuſion. And before theſe Bodies of Perfection be fuſed, to ſee them admit Ignition, with inflamation of a pleaſing Celeſtine Colour, and this, before their Ignition comes to the Whiteneſs of Fire, which the Eye can in no wiſe diſcern.

Therefore, 'tis manifeſt, that the perfect Ignition of them is (before Fuſion) with intenſe Redneſs, and not with Whiteneſs, which the Eye cannot behold. For if the adminiſtred Bodies be melted, before they are red hot with Fire, they are not in Compleatment. And if they be made Fire-hot with labour, and ſtrong Expreſſion of Fire, their Adminiſtration is not true: and this indeed, if it happen in ſoft Bodies. Becauſe, the ſame is only found in Mars. For Ignible Bodies do not eaſily in the way of Preparation, admit Ignition; nor fuſible Bodies, the right Fuſion, which We find in Bodies perfect according to Nature. If Bodies adminiſtred, in their Ignition yield not Flame of a pleaſing Celeſtine Colour, their Adminiſtration is not compleat. And if any part of the Weight, Colour, Beauty, Ignition, and the like, be found diminiſhed, by reaſon of the Differencies of the Goodneſs of Preparation, the Indagation of the Artiſt was not ſufficient. Therefore let him make a new Search, until he find his Error, with Ways of Operating correſponding to Divine Goodneſs.

CHAP. VII.

Of Fuſion, or Melting.

IN the Narration of Fuſion, We ſhall ſufficiently diſcourſe, according to the Examen of all Bodies by the certain Ignition of them. Therefore We ſay, that Fuſion with Ignition, is the only Argument of Perfection; yet not with every kind of Ignition, but with Ignition, in which the Body waxeth not altogether White; and with Ignition, in which is not made a dull paleneſs of Fire, and in which the Body is not ſuddenly melted, or flows not immediately after Ignition. For when a Body flows with very ſmall preſſure of a weak Fire, either [••••]out Ignition, or with a palid Ignition; a Body of this Preparation muſt needs be a Body of Imperfection: ſome one of the imperfect Bodies, in diminiſhed Artifice.

And if a Body after Fuſion be not ſuffered preſently to cool, and its Ignition be ſuddenly turned altogether into Blackneſs, and by reaſon of that, loſeth its Ignition before it waxeth hard, it is not a Body in Compleatment, of what kind ſoever it be. But this is to be imputed to ſoftneſs, and that it is one of the kinds of imperfect Bodies.

And if the Ignition of a Body, before Fuſion thereof, be made with laborious and violent Expreſſion of ſtrong Fire, and with a Ray of Brightneſs ineſtimable, altogether White and ſhining; it is not a Body of Perfection, but a Body of Hardneſs altered. Alſo, if after Fuſion thereof, and when taken from the Fire, it be ſuddenly hardned, that it flow not, the fulgent Ignition thereof remaining, it is not a Body of Lunar, or Solar Perfection, of what kind and preparation ſoever the Body adminiſtred was; but comes under the Nature of the Differencies of Mars.

Therefore, by the aboveſaid 'tis evident, that in fuſible Bodies, by the Experiment of them may be found a threefold Ignition, before Liquefaction of their Subſtances, viz. one, Palid; the other, Red and Clear; and the third moſt White, ſhining with a Ray. The firſt is of ſoft Bodies; the ſecond, of perfect Bodies; but the third, of hard Bodies; as is proved by Reaſon, and Experience. He that deſires to ſearch out the Degree of all theſe Ignitions, that he may compleat all fuſible Bodies, let him conſider of the ſufficiency compleat for the Perfection of Fuſion, and by conſidering, recollect the difference of all the ſigns of the Degree of Fuſion, and ſo indeed he will find; otherwiſe not. This is offered to you for an Exemplar, in all manners of Examination by us determined, and to be determined. And this may ſuffice to be ſpoken of Fuſion.

CHAP. VIII.

Of the Expoſition of Bodies over the Vapours of acute Things.

THerefore, proſecuting our intended Diſcourſe, We now declare the Expoſition of Bodies over the Vapours of Acute Things, viz. of Things Sharp, Saline, and Sower. We ſee Bodies of Perfection, expoſed over the Vapours of the ſaid Acute Things, either little or nothing at all to flower, or to emit a moſt pleaſant Celeſtine Flos. But the pureſt Gold flowreth not. Yet Luna, or Sol, not pure, We find to flower, when expoſed over the Vapours of Acute Things, and to yield a moſt pleaſant Celeſtine Flos; yet that of Sol is more delightful, than that of Luna. We therefore, by reaſon of this, imitating Nature, do in like manner create a Celeſtine Colour in prepared Bodies; which Colour is perfected by the Goodneſs of Argentvive, as is ſufficiently declared by us in the precedent.

Therefore, whatſoever prepared Bodies ſhall be ſet over the Vapours of Acute Things, and not create a Celeſtine pleaſant Colour, they exiſt not in the total compleatment of Preparation. There are ſome Bodies, which in the Examen of Saline Things, flower in their Superficies, with a dull red, or dull citrine Colour mixt with Greenneſs; of this kind is Mars. Some flower with a dull Greenneſs, mixt with a turbid Celeſtine Colour; of this kind is Venus. Some are found to yield a dull White, and of this kind is Saturn. And ſome a clear White, of which kind Jupiter is. Therefore, the moſt perfect Body flowers leaſt, or nothing at all; and if it yield any Flos, it is in a long ſpace of time. And indeed, among Bodies wanting the compleatment of Perfection, Jupiter moſt ſlowly flowreth its Gummoſity. Thence, by the Examen of this Magiſtery, We conſider Jupiter, in the Work of the Greater Order, moſt nearly approximate to Perfection. And by this Examen it may be known, in what kind of Temperament, the Body conſiſts; if you rightly conſider the Order of theſe Things, which we have declared in this Chapter: but if you know not this, impute that to the folly of your own Raſhneſs.

CHAP. IX.

Of the Extinction of Bodies Fire-hot.

WE now ſpeak intirely of the Examen of Extinction: of which there is a manifold Experience, whereby it is known, whether the Magiſtery conſiſt in Perfection or not. Therefore, firſt if the Body ignited (or heat rod-hot) be extinguiſhed in Liquor, and the Lunar yield not a White Colour, and the Solar a Bright Citrine, but is changed into an Alien Colour; the Alteration is not in compleatment of this Magiſtery. And if in repeating its Ignition and Extinction, in the Waters of Salts or Allomes, by whatſoever kind of Adminiſtration created, it yield a Scoria of affinity to Blackneſs in its Superficies; or if in the Extinction of it in Sulphurs, and from the Extinction, with often repeated Ignition, it vaniſh, or infect it ſelf with a foul Blackneſs; or by compulſion of the Hammer breaks it ſelf to pieces; the Artifice of the Work is fallacious. Or if it, with Cementation of the Mixture of Salarmoniack, Verdegreaſe, and Boys-Ʋrine, or of Things like in Nature, be expoſed to the Fire, and after the Ignition, and Extinction of it (whether Lunar or Solar) it totally loſe its proper Colour, or create a Scoria, it is manifeſt, that the Body doth yet remain in Sophiſtick Corruption. Yet We give you one certain General Rule, and that as well in theſe preſent, as in the Examens following; if among the differencies of Perfection the altered Body ſhall change any thing of its Weight, or Colour, the Artiſt hath not rightly, but phantaſtically proceeded in his Work: which is a Thing not profitable, but deſtructive rather.

CHAP. X.

Of the Admixtion of burning Sulphur.

LIkewiſe, by the Mixtion of Sulphur is proved, Whether the Magiſtery conſiſt in Perfection, or not. For by our Experience We find, that Sulphur commixed with Bodies, burns ſome more, others leſs: and by our Artifice We have diſcerned, that ſome retire from its combuſtion, and ſome not. And hence may be noted the difference between thoſe Bodies, diminiſhed from Perfection, prepared in a Sophiſtical compleatment. Therefore, among all Bodies, of whatſoever kind, We find Sol not to be burned by Sulphur. The next to this, leaſt burned, is Jupiter; then Luna; and after that Saturn; but Venus more eaſily, than all theſe; and Mars, by reaſon of the Oleaginy of Sulphur, is moſt eaſily burned. Hence 'tis obſervable, that that Body is more burnt, which is leſs nigh to the Nature of the Perfect.

Alſo by the Diverſity of Colours, after combuſtion of Bodies, it may be known, in what kind the altered Body, from the Radix of its own Nature, conſiſts; becauſe, after the Commixtion of Sulphur, Sol gives an intenſe Citrine, or clear Red Colour; Luna, a black mixt with Celeſtine; Jupiter, a black Colour mixt with a ſmall Tincture of Redneſs; Saturn a dull black, mixt with much Redneſs, and a livid Colour; Venus, from the Commixtion of Sulphur, yields a black mixt with livid, if much combuſtion of Sulphur hath preceded; but if little combuſtion was pre-exiſtent, it ſhews a moſt clean and pleaſant Violet Colour; but Mars, in every kind of combuſtion, creates a moſt black dull Colour.

Likewiſe, in Bodies is obſerved a Diverſity, after their Reduction from the combuſtion of Sulphur. Some do indeed return; but others, by the expreſſion of Fire, with the Sulphur recede from the Reduction, either totally, or the greater Quantity of them: ſome into Bodies of their own Nature; others return, from the combuſtion, into Bodies other than of their own Nature. Sol and Luna return, from the combuſtion of Sulphur, into the Nature of their proper Body; but Jupiter and Saturn recede. Jupiter recedes totally, or its greater part; Saturn not totally; yet ſometimes a greater, ſometimes a leſſer part of it, is deſtroyed. The Diverſity of theſe is, by reaſon of the Nature of Things and Bodies, and by reaſon of the different Adminiſtration of them in the Work of Preparation. For it happens, that Jupiter is deſtroyed, by the ſudden force of Fire in Reduction; but both Jupiter and Saturn are preſerved by ſucceſſive and gentle Reduction. Yet the Reduction of them rather tends to the Nature of an alien, than of the proper Body. That is to ſay, the Reduction of Jupiter is converted into clear Antimony; but of Saturn, into a dull coloured Antimony, as We have found by proper Experience. Venus is diminiſhed, in the Impreſſion of Fire of Reduction; and this happens more to Mars, than to Venus. Venus in its Reduction is ponderous, of a dull Citrine Colour, and ſoft, partaking of Blackneſs, with Augmentation of the Weight of its Body. Therefore, by theſe, may be found out the Nature of all Bodies, that are altered.

CHAP. XI.

Of Calcination, and Reduction.

OF the Examen of the Reiteration of Calcination and Reduction We are now to ſpeak. Therefore We ſay, that Bodies are found to be of Perfection, in the Reiteration of Calcination and Reduction, by their differencies of Goodneſs, if they loſe nothing of their Colour, Weight, Quantity, or Brightneſs; (of which great care is to be taken) how much ſoever the Multiplicity of thoſe Operations ſhall be reiterated upon them. Accordingly, if by repeating the Calcination, and Reduction from the Calxes, of altered Metals of every kind, they loſe any Thing in their differencies of Goodneſs, it is to be ſuppoſed, that the Artiſt hath ſophiſtically followed his Inveſtigation. Wherefore habituate your ſelf to theſe Works, that you may know them.

CHAP. XII.

Of the eaſie Suſception of Argentvive.

IT is now undeniably manifeſt to you, that Bodies containing the greateſt Quantity of Argentvive, and Bodies of Perfection. Wherefore, it is to be ſuppoſed, that thoſe Bodies are more nigh to Perfection, which more amicably imbibe Argentvive. The ſign of this is, the eaſie Suſception of Argentvive by a Solar or Lunar Body of Perfection. For this ſame Reaſon, if a Body altered do not eaſily receive Argentvive into its Subſtance, it muſt needs be very remote from the Compleatment of Perfection.

CHAP. XIII.

A Recapitulation of the whole Art.

HAving handled the Experiences of the Cauſes of the ſufficiency of this Magiſtery, according to the Exigency of our propoſed Diſcourſe, it remains, that We ſhould now in one Chapter come to the Compleatment of this whole Divine Work; and briefly ſpeaking, contract the diſperſed Magiſtery into one Sum, in general Heads. Therefore We ſay, the Sum of the whole Intention of the Work is no other, than that the Stone (known in its Chapters) ſhould be taken, and with inſtance of Labour, Sublimation of the firſt Degree, repeated upon it: for by this it will be cleanſed from corrupting Impurity. And the Perfection of Sublimation is, the Subtiliation of the Stone by it, until it can come to the ultimate purity of Subtilety, and laſtly be made Volatile. This being done, by the Way of Fixation it muſt be fixed, until it can reſt in the Aſperity of Fire. Herein conſiſts the Meaſure of the Second Degree of Preparation. The Stone is likewiſe adminiſtred in the third, which conſiſts in the ultimate Compleatment of Preparation; and that is this: You muſt make the now fixed Stone, by the ways of Sublimation Volatile, and the Volatile fixed; and the Fixed, Diſſolved; and the Diſſolved again Volatile, and the Volatile again Fixed, until it flow and alter, into Solifick, and Lunifick, with certain Compleatment.

From the Reiteration of Preparation of this third Degree, reſults the Multiplication of the Goodneſs of Alteration of the Medicine. Therefore, from the Diverſity of the Work repeated upon the Stone, in its Degrees, reſults the Diverſity of Multiplication of the Goodneſs of Alteration; ſo that among Medicines, ſome tranſmute into a true Solifick and Lunifick Body of Perfection, an hundred-fold as much as their own weight is; ſome two hundred-fold; ſome three hundred-fold; ſome a thouſand-fold, and ſome to Infinity. Therefore hence it may be known, whether the Magiſtery conſiſts in Perfection.

CHAP. XIV.

What Order the Author hath obſerved in treating of the aforeſaid.

BUT, that the Envious may not calumniate us, We declare, that We have not treated of our Science with a continued ſeries of Diſcourſe, but have diſperſed it in divers Chapters. And this was done; becauſe, if it had been delivered in a continued Series of Speech, the juſt Man, as well as him that is evil, might have uſurped it unworthily. Therefore We have concealed it in places, where We more openly ſpeak; yet not under an Aenigma, but in a plain diſcourſe to the Artiſt: and indeed We have deſcribed it in ſuch a way of ſpeaking, as is agreeable to the Will of the Moſt High, bleſſed, ſublime, and Glorious God, and our own Mind, who writ the ſame, as it happened to be recollected, or was infuſed by the Grace of his divine Goodneſs, who gives it to, and withholds it from, whom he will.

Therefore, let not the Son of Learning deſpair: for if he ſeek it, he may find the ſame, with the Inveſtigation of the Motion of his proper Nature, not of Doctrine. Becauſe, he that ſeeks by the goodneſs of his Induſtry finds the ſame; but he, who ſeeks the ſame following Books only, will very ſlowly attain to this moſt pecious Art. For We publiſhed this Art found by Us only, for our ſelves only, not for others, although it be moſt true, and altogether certain. Therefore, We invite to this Art the Prudent only, and (by Ingenuities taught by Us) expoſe to them the way of Inveſtigation. For We writ down the ſame being found, together with the Way of its Invention, and the Ingenuities of Methods, for none, but our ſelves. Wherefore let the well-minded Artificer exerciſe himſelf by thoſe Precepts, which We have delivered; and he will greatly rejoyce when he hath found the Gift of the Moſt High God. Theſe may ſuffice to be ſpoken, touching the Diſquiſition of this ſublime Art.

The End of the Second Book of Geber, Of the Sum of Perfection, or of the Perfect Magiſtery.

GEBER, The Arabian Prince and Philoſopher, His Book, Of the INVENTION of VERITY, OR, PERFECTION,

CHAP. I.

Of the ſix Properties of Things, from which the Medicine is extracted.

WE have in our Volumes conſidered, not only by the Secret Properties of Natural Principles, but alſo by proper Experience, and the truly certain Inveſtigation of our Invention, that thoſe Things, from which our Medicine is extracted, have in themſelves theſe Properties of Qualities, in tranſmuting Bodies. Firſt, they have in themſelves an Earth moſt ſubtile and incombuſtible, altogether fixed with its own proper radical Humidity, and apt for fixing. Secondly, they have an Airy and Fiery Humidity, ſo uniformly conjoyned to that Earth, that if one be volatile, ſo is the reſidue; and the ſame Humidity abides the Fire beyond all Humidities, even to the compleat Termination of its own Inſpiſſation, according to the Indigency of its Compleatment, with Permanency (inſeparable from the Earth annexed to it) without Evaporation. Thirdly, The Diſpoſition of their Natural Humidity is ſuch, that by the benefit of its own Oleaginy, in all differencies of its Properties, it ſo unctuouſly contemperates the Earth annexed to it, with Converſion of one into the other homogeneally and equally, with ſuch an Ʋnion and Bond of Conjunction of inſeparability, that after the Degree of final Preparation, it gives good Fuſion.

Fourthly, This Oleaginy is of ſo great purity of Eſſence, and ſo Artificially cleanſed from every combuſtible, or burning Thing, that it burns not all Bodies, with which it is conjoyned through their leaſt parts; but preſerves them from Combuſtion. Fifthly, It hath a Tincture in it ſelf ſo clear and ſplended, white or red, clean and incombuſtible, ſtable and fixed, that the Fire cannot prevail againſt it to change it, nor ſulphureous aduſtive, or acute corroding Bodies, corrupt and defile the ſame. Sixthly, The whole Compound, incerated with its final Compleatment, is of ſo great Subtilety and Tenuity of Matter, that after the final Termination of its Decoction, it remains in Projection, of moſt thin Fuſion like Water; and is of profound Penetration, unto the ultimate Compleatment of the Body permutable, of how great Fixation ſoever it be. And with its Vicinity, or Affinity, it adheres to its own like, naturally, with inſeparable Conſolidation againſt the Impreſſion of Fire; in that very Hour, with its own Spirituality, reducing Bodies to Volatility.

CHAP. XVI.

Of the Seven Properties of the Medicine.

THeſe being conſidered, We find by Our Inveſtigation ſeveral Properties of Things neceſſary and opportune in our Stone; and they are theſe: Oleaginy, Tenuity of Matter, Affinity, Radical Humidity, Clearneſs of Purity, a fixing Earth, and Tincture.

The firſt Property of Differencies of the Medicine is Oleaginy, in Projection giving Ʋniverſal Fuſion, and Aſpertion of the Matter. For, the firſt thing which is neceſſary after Projection of the Medicine, is the ſudden and convenient Fuſion of the Medicine it ſelf, which is perfected and rendred viſcous with Mineral Oleaginy.

The ſecond Property, is, Tenuity of the Matter, or the Spiritual Subſtance thereof, flowing very thin in its Fuſion, like Water penetrating to the profundity of the Body alterable; becauſe immediately after Fuſion, the Ingreſſion thereof is neceſſary.

The third Property, is Affinity (or Vicinity) between the Elixir, and the Body to be tranſmuted, giving adherency in the Obviation and Retention of its like; becauſe immediately after Ingreſs of the Medicine, Adherency is convenient and neceſſary.

The fourth Property, is Radical Humidity. fiery, congealing, and conſolidating the Parts retained, with Adherency of its own like, with the Ʋnion of all Co-like Parts inſeperably for ever; becauſe, after Adherency, Conſolidation of the Parts, with their Radical, viſcous, and neceſſary Humidity, is opportune.

The fifth, is a Mundificative Clearneſs of Purity, giving evident Splendor, in the Combuſtion exiſtent, not burning. For, after Conſolidation of the purified Parts, it is leſt to the Actual Fire, to have power of burning all extraneous Superfluities, not conſolidated. Wherefore Purification follows, and is neceſſary.

The ſixth Property, is a Fixing Earth, temperate, thin, ſubtile, fixed, and incombuſtible, giving permanency of Fixation in the Solution of the Body adhering with it, ſtanding and perſevering againſt the force of Fire: for immediately after Purification, Fixation is neceſſary, and opportune.

The ſeventh Property, is Tincture, giving a ſplendid and perfect Colour, White, or intenſly Citrine, and Lunification, or Solification of Bodies to be tranſmuted; becauſe after Fixation, a ſplendid Tincture, and Colour tinging another Body, or a Tincture colouring the Matter convertible into true Silver, or Gold (with all its certain and known differencies) is abſolutely neceſſary.

CHAP. III.

The Diviſion of this Book into four Particles.

ACcording to the Exigency of Art, We have diſputed againſt Men denying Art; and have diſcourſed of Natural Principles, which are according to the Intention of Nature, in the Procreation of Metals; and of Bodies, and their Procreations, and Preparations; and laſtly of the Medicines, and Examinations of the ſame Bodies tranſmuted, whether the Compleatment of them ſtands in Perfection; all which hath been done by Us, in our Book intituled, The Sum of Perfection, or of the Perfect Magiſtery. And there We have written the Way of the Invention of Art, and our Ingenious Works, which We have ſeen, and touched: But here, in this Book, We will treat of the Invention of Perfection, and in a ſpecial manner declare thoſe Things, which are neceſſary in this our Magiſtery; and the Way of Preparing the ſame, with their weight and meaſure, and Probation certain, not conjectural.

Our Intention is to divide this little Book into Four Particles; and in the Firſt ſufficiently to treat of Middle Minerals, and their Preparations; that they may be aptly diſpoſed in the Extraction of Spirits, and imperfect Bodies: in the Second, of the Mundifications of Spirits, and intire Preparations of the ſame: in the Third, of the diverſe Preparations of imperfect Bodies, according to the Exigency of the Compleatment of the Work: and in the Fourth of all Medicines eſpecially, for tranſforming every Body into Sol and Luna, with Projection, Weight, and Meaſure, according to the Exigency of Neceſſity for Compleatment of the Work.

The Firſt Particle.

CHAP. IV.

Of the Preparation of Middle Minerals.

COmmon Salt is diſſolved in clear Fountain Water, and diſtilled through a Filter, and afterwards congealed in an Earthen Veſſel, or in a Veſſel of Lead, or other Metal. Salt-Peter is diſſolved in Fountain Water, diſtilled through a Filter, and congealed in a Veſſel of Glaſs, that it may there be cryſtalized. Salt-nitre is ſo prepared, viz. it is diſſolved in clear Fountain Water, filtred, &c. Salt-Gem is diſſolved, &c. as before, and congealed in an Earthen-glazed Veſſel. True Salt-Alkali is made of Zoza (or Soda) diſſolved, filtred, and the Solution boyled away to one third part, and then the Salt, in a ſhort time ſettles to the Bottom in Cryſtals; and ſo it is prepared. Some do alſo make Salt-Alkali, thus: They take lib. 5. of Aſhes of Hearts-eaſe, and lib. 1. of Quicklime, and by boyling in Water they make a Lixivium, which they filter and congeal; this labour they reiterate once, and it is prepared. Salammoniac is made of five parts of Mans Ʋrine, and one part of his Sweat, one part of Common-Salt, and half a part of the Soot of Woods, theſe being boyled together into Conſumption of the Humidity, from the remainder ſublime a true and profitable Salammoniac: this again diſſolve into Sweat, and ſublime it from Common-Salt once; then it is prepared. Salt of Tartar is made of the calcined Feces of Wine diſtilled, the Tartar being diſſolved from them, and congealed: ſo it is prepared. Salt of Ʋrine is likewiſe made of the calcined Feces of Ʋrine diſtilled, and this is again diſſolved in its own Water, and congealed, ſo it is prepared; and is of great Emolument and Ʋſe.

Many men diverſly treat of the Preparations of Salts; but We, by our Invention, have found, that theſe Preparations of Salts are more ſhort, more ſubtile, and more profitable for our purpoſe; ſeeing from all Things truly calcined, Salts are extracted by Solution, which by the above-alleadged Way muſt be prepared. Therefore it ſufficeth Us to paſs them by, theſe being more uſeful. Glaſſy or Roch-Allom hath a two-fold way of Preparation: one for waſhing calcined Bodies, and the other for ſubliming Spirits. After the firſt Way, it is thus prepared: Diſſolve it in clear Fountain Water, diſtill it through a Filter, and boyl it to a third part: this Part put in Glazed Diſhes, and it will ſettle round about the Sides of the Veſſels, and in the Bottom: ſo you will have prepared Cryſtalline Allom. The ſecond Way is this: Boyl the Allom in an Earthen Veſſel, until the Humidity vaniſh, and you find it ſpongious, white and light; then is it prepared for Sublimations, and other diverſe Operations. Plumous Allom is diſſolved and congealed as the former; and ſo it is prepared.

Now, it is expedient to ſpeak of the Preparations of Atraments, ſeeing that is a Thing very neceſſary; becauſe We find a neceſſary Ʋſe of them in Tinctures, and Ligaments of Spirits, and other Things, which appertain to the Work. Black-Atrament is diſſolved in boyling Water, diſtilled through a Filter, and congealed; then it is prepared. Copperas is diſſolved in diſtilled Vinegar, clarified by filtring, and congealed: ſo it is clean. Roman Vitrol needs not any other Preparation, than only (in ſome caſes) to be held in a moderate Fire, and rubified▪

Morever, it is certain, that diverſe Things neceſſary for Us are extracted from imperfect Bodies; which need Preparation, and are helpful in the Caſe: and theſe are, firſt Ceruſe of Lead, which is thus prepared. Ceruſſe of Lead muſt be waſhed in diſtilled Vinegar, then purged from its more groſs parts; and that which flows out thence as Milk, muſt be congealed in the Sun, and it is prepared. The Preparation of Spaniſh White, Tin, and Minium, is after the ſame manner. For they muſt be waſhed in diſtilled Ʋrine, and prepared as Ceruſſe; then they are fit for uſe. Verdegreece is diſſolved in diſtilled Vinegar, and rubified, being exactly congealed with moſt gentle Heat of Fire; and then it is prepared and fit for the Work. Crocus of Iron is diſſolved in diſtilled Vinegar, and clarified by Filter: this Red Water being congealed, yields you a Crocus fit for your purpoſe. Aes uſtum (or Copper calcined) ground to powder, and waſhed with diſtilled Vinegar, after the ſame manner as We taught in the Preparation of Ceruſs; will be of uſe to you. Lithargiry diſſolved in diſtilled Vinegar, muſt be clarified and congealed; for ſo it is well prepared. Yet you may again diſſolve it as other Things above-noted. Alſo you may uſe them diſſolved and congealed; and in this is profound Inveſtigation. Antimony is calcined, diſſolved, clarified, congealed, and ground to powder; ſo it is prepared. Lapis Lazuli (or the Lazure Stone) is calcined, and when ground to Powder waſhed, and it is purified. The Stone Haematitis, is heat red hot, and often extinguſhed in Bulls-Gall. Bolearmenac is ground and diſſolved as Ceruſſe, and then congealed. Cinaber muſt be ſublimed once from Common-Salt, and ſo it is prepared. Tutia is diſſolved in diſtilled Vinegar, having been firſt calcined, and ſo it is well prepared.

The Second Particle.

CHAP. V.

Of the Mundifications, or Cleanſing of Spirits.

IN the firſt Particle We ſufficiently treated of thoſe things, which (in our certain Invention) ſeemed unto Us neceſſary for the Preparation of Spirits and Bodies. Here We now intend to inlarge our Diſcourſe, touching the Sublimation, or Preparation of Spirits of every Species, according to the Indigency of the Compleatment of our Magiſtery. But do not you deviate from this Doctrine of our Invention, which, in profound Meditation, and in Works, We ſee very neceſſary for Us, and moſt certain. Here We ſearch out the Weights, and the ſpecial Way of preparing and ſubliming them, with Experience altogether certain: and firſt begin with the Preparation of Sulphur, and its Compeer; and ſo of others in their Order.

CHAP. VI.

Of the Preparation of Sulphur.

GRind clear and gummoſe Sulphurvive to a moſt ſubtile Powder, which boyl in a Lixivium made of Aſhes of Heartſeaſe, and Quick-lime, gathering from off the ſuperficies its oleaginous Combuſtibility, until it be diſcerned to be clear. This being done, ſtir the whole with a ſtick, and then warily take off that, which paſſeth out with the Lixivium, leaving the more groſs parts in the bottom. Permit that Extract to cool a little, and upon it pour a fourth part of its own Quantity of diſtilled Vinegar, and then will the whole ſuddenly be congealed as Milk. Remove as much of the clear Lixivium as you can; but dry the reſidue with gentle Fire, and keep it.

In adminiſtration of the Feces, obſerve this Method. For every one pound of this prepared Sulphur, take of Scales of Iron well calcined to redneſs, l[•]b. 1. of Roch-Allom alſo well calcined, lib. 1. and of Common-Salt prepared, half a pound. Incorporate all theſe well, by grinding together with Vinegar, that the whole may be liquid; which then boyl, ſtirring it, until it be all very black. Then dry, and grind it to a fine Powder, which put into an Aludel with a large Cover, and let the Cover of the Alembeck have a large and great Zone (or Girdle) for Conſervation of the Spirits elevated: the Aludel it ſelf muſt be of the height of one Foot and half, that the Heat may not touch the Zone of the Alembeck. This being done, ſublime as We taught you in our Book, Of the Sum of Perfection, &c. But gather what ſhall be denſe (or cloſe compact) in the Zone; and caſt away the light pulverizable Flos, which aſcends above it, and adheres to the ſides of the Alembeck: for it is combuſtible, defiled, and defiling. Keep the denſe Matter ſublimed, by it ſelf, in a Phial, and coct it upon Aſhes ſo long, as until its combuſtive Humidity be gradually exterminated. Then preſerve it clean; for it is perfectly cleanſed.

CHAP. VII.

Of the Preparation of Arſnick.

AFter its Compeer Arſnick is beaten to Powder, it muſt be boyled in Vinegar, and all its combuſtible Fatneſs extracted, and it then dryed. Then ℞. of Copper, calcined, lib. 1. Of Allom calcined ½ a pound, and of Common-Salt prepared as much as of the Allom. Mix theſe with your Arſnick prepared. and having ground all well together, moyſten the Mixture with diſtilled Vinegar (that it may be liquid) and boyl the ſame, as you did in Sulphur; and then ſublime it in an Aludel (without an Alembeck) of the height of one Foot. Gather what aſcends white, denſe, clear, and lucid, and keep it; becauſe it is ſufficiently prepared for the Work.

CHAP. VIII.

Of the Preparation of Argentvive.

SUblime Argentvive thus: ℞. Of it lib. j. of Vitriol rubified, lib. ij. Of Roch-Allom calcined, lib. j. of Common Sal, lib. ſs. and of Salt-Peter one fourth part. Incorporate all together, and ſublime: and gather the White, Denſe, and Ponderous, which ſhall be found about the Sides of the Veſſel, and keep it, as We have appointed of other Things. But if, in the firſt Sublimation, you ſhall find it turbid, or unclean (which may happen, by reaſon of your own Negligence) again ſublime it with the ſame Feces, and reſerve it for uſe.

CHAP. IX.

Of the Preparation of Marchaſite.

SPread Marchaſite ground to Powder, a fingers thickneſs over the Bottom of a large Aludel, and collect the Sulphur firſt with gentle Fire. When that is aſcended, take off the Head (or Alembeck) and having applyed another, augment the Fire; then, that which obtains the Place of Argentvive, aſcends, as We have fully deſcribed in our Sum of Perfection.

CHAP. X.

Of the Preparation of Tutia, &c.

PUT pulverized Tutia into an Aludel, and with the Adminiſtration of great Ignition ſublime it, and it is prepared.

Salammoniac is ſublimed from Common-Salt, as in the Praxis of Salts We have declared to you.

Argentvive is prepared moſt red, thus: ℞. of Mercury, lib. j. of Vitriol rubified, lib. ij. and Salt-peter, lib. j. Mortifie the Mercury with theſe, and then ſublime it from Roch-Allom, and Salt-Peter, in equal weights. This is a great Secret of our Invention, which is not to be omitted.

But the Conſideration of Feces is to be obſerved in Sublimation of Sulphur, and its Compeer: for Sulphur ſublimed from the Calx of Copper is more whitened, than when ſublimed from the Calx of Iron. The like is to be judged of Arſnick: for it is ſublimed more red from Iron. Theſe may alſo be ſublimed from Vitriol and Allom calcined, and permixed with Common-Salt, and Salt-Peter, Thus have We ſufficiently treated of the Artifical, not mean Preparations of Spirits.

The third Particle of this Book.

CHAP. XI.

How Bodies ought to be prepared.

OUR third Particle declares the compleat Preparation of imperfect Bodies. For We have found out the Way how they ſhould be prepared, ſo as to be perfected (as to the Compleatmen of the firſt or ſecond Order) by themſelves, without Medicine. This We intend to ſhew; and ſecondly the Preparation of them for receiving Medicine, white or red.

CHAP. XII.

Of the Preparation of Saturn.

CAlcine Saturn fluxed with Common-Salt prepared, ſtirring it continually with an Iron Spatula, until it be turned to Aſhes. Coct it for one Day natural, and let it be a little fiery-hot, but not much: then compleatly waſh it with Sweet Water; afterward calcine it for three Days, until it be red within and without. If you would have it be prepared for the White, imbibe it with the Water of white Allom, and reduce it with Oyl of Tarter, or its Salt. But if for the Red, imbibe it with Water of Crocus of Iron, and of Verdegreece aforeſaid; and reduce it with Salt of Tartar as before. Reiterate this Labour, as often as ſhall be needful.

CHAP. XIII.

Of the Preparation of Jupiter.

CAlcine Jupiter as Saturn, and whiten its Calx for three Days, as in Saturn We ſaid. But ſee you err not in its Reduction: becauſe that is difficult, unleſs it be made in their Furnace, who reduce by Cineritiums, or Cements; then 'tis done with eaſe.

Know you, O Searcher of this our Art, that We have plenarily deſcribed in this Book the Preparations of Reductible Feces: for this whole Book is practical, compiled with certain Inveſtigation. But in our Sum of Perfection We obſerved another ſtyle more philoſophical; that being Theorical, We, here Theorically deſcribed the whole Art, but in this, that is meerly Practical, We have ſet down the Praxis of the ſame compleatly.

But that the Artiſt may not err, let him joyn that Body, which he would reduce, in equal parts, with that by which he would make Reduction, and co-unite the divided Calx. Yet in Tinctures there is another Conſideration. For the Matter tinging muſt be multiplied upon the Matter to be tinged, until the Tincture appear, which you ſhall conſider in the Body, or Medicine.

After you ſhall have reduced theſe two Leads, and found their Colour, Splendour, and all other things according to your own Wiſh, perhaps they will want Ignition; therefore, that you may attain your Intentention in that alſo, begin thus: Diſſolve Tutia calcined, and Tin calcined; mix both Solutions, and with that Water imbibe the Calx of Tin, time after time, until the Calx hath imbibed an eighth part of the Tutia; then reduce it into Body, and you will find it to have Ignition, and that well indeed: if not, reiterate the ſame Labour, until due Ignition be acquired.

We will ſet down all Waters diſſolutive of Spirits and Bodies, in the End of this Book; and every one of theſe according to its own kind: and wonder not, that We have diſperſed the ſpecial Things pertinent to this Praxis, in diverſe Volumes, ſeeing We endeavour to hide the Art from evil Men. With Talk, or Mercury precipitated (or more profitably) with pure Luna, deduced to this by calcining and diſſolving, We acquire the compleat Ignition and Hardneſs of theſe two Bodies, with unutterable ſplendour. Yet you ſhould here know, that Speculation only, which is very available in our Sum of Perfection, profits little in this preſent Invention; but to grind, to aſſate, to inhumate, to calcine, to make to flow, to deſtroy, to conſtruct, and to cleanſe Bodies, are effectual Works; for with theſe Keys, you may open the occult Incloſures of our Arcanum, and without them you ſhall never be called to the Banquets of this kind of Rarieties. Deſtroy without Anger, and you ſhall compleat your Work with Joy.

CHAP. XIV.

Of the Preparation of Mars.

PRepare Mars thus: Grind one pound of the Filings thereof, with half a pound of Arſnick ſublimed. Imbibe the Mixture wixture with the Water of Salt-Peter, and Salt-Alkali, reiterating this Imbibition thrice; then make it flow with violent Fire, and you will have your Iron white. Repeat this Labour, until it flow ſufficiently, with peculiar Dealbation.

CHAP. XV.

Of the Preparation of Venus.

THE Purgation of Venus is twofold, one for the White, and the other for the Red. For the White it is thus: Calcine Venus with Fire only, as We ſhewed in our Sum of Perfection. ℞. Venus thus calcined, grind, 1. lib. of it with four Ounces of Arſnick ſublimed, and imbibe the Mixture three or four times with the Water of Lithargiry, and reduce the whole with Salt-Peter, and Oyl of Tartar; and you wil find the Body of Venus white and ſplendid, fit for receiving its Medicine.

For the Red, the Preparation of it is thus: Grind one pound of the Filings of Venus, with four ounces of Sulphur; or Cement Plates of Copper with Sulphur, and ſo calcine; and waſh the Calcinate with the Water of Salt and Allom, and then (with Things reducing) reduce into a clean Body apt for the Red Tincture.

There is alſo a third Preparation of it. Calcine it with Fire only, and then diſſolve a part thereof, and likewiſe diſſolve as much of Tutia calcined; joyn both Solutions, and with the ſame imbibe the remaining part of the Calx of Venus four or five times. Or you may make this Imbibition with Tutia alone diſſolved; provided that more of the Tutia (than half of the Calx is) be imbibed in the ſaid Calx. This being done, reduce with Things reducing, and you will have the Body of Venus clean and ſplendid; which with a little help may be brought to an higher State, if you be a true Searcher of the Truth.

There is likewiſe a fourth Preparation thereof, and that is thus: Of it, by it ſelf calcined, I mean with Fire only, you may make an Intenſe Greenneſs, which is called the Flos of Copper. Diſſolve this Greenneſs with diſtilled Vinegar, and then congeal it; afterward, with Things reducing reduce the Congelate, which when reduced will be apt for many Things, if your Inveſtigation in like Works given by Us, hath not been too remiſs. For We compoſed this Book, that it might be Introductory to Our Sum of Perfection; or in the abſence of that, be a final Concluſion of the Whole, for the Compleatment of either Medicine. Becauſe here We poſit the the Practice gradatim, but there the Theory of our Speculation, diſpoſed of in a way more General, with manifeſt Demonſtrations.

The fourth Particle of this Book.

CHAP. XVI.

Of Medicines.

ACcording to the Order of the Premiſes, We will (in this our fourth Particle) again practically ſpeak of the Way of Inveſtigation, compounding every Medicine, viz. White and Red, according to the Nature and Property of the Body to be tranſmuted, or of Mercury it ſelf, with all its pertinencies occult and manifeſt. And this, in the Second, or Third Order. For this our Book, being it ſelf intituled, Of the Invention of Verity, contains nothing that is Sophiſtical. Wherefore We will begin to ſpeak firſt of White Elixirs.

CHAP. XVII.

Of White Medicines for Jupiter, and Saturn.

A White Medicine for Jupiter prepared: ℞ of moſt pure Luna, lib. 1. of Living Mercury, lib. 8. Amalgamate theſe together; then waſh the Amalgama with diſtilled Vinegar, and Common-Salt prepared, until it acquire a Celeſtine or Lazure Colour. Which being done, extract as much of the Mercury as you can, by ſtrongly expreſſing the Mixture through a thick Cloath. Then add of Sublimate Mercury double the Weight of your Luna, and grind them well together; afterward coct the Mixture in a Phial firmly cloſed for one Day and Night, then take out the Matter, grind it, and again Coct the ſame; then break the Veſſel, and ſeparate that which is ſublimed from the Inferiour Reddiſh Powder. But take heed of giving too great Fire, for that would cauſe the whole to flow into one black Maſs. Put the Powder upon a Porphery Stone, and adjoyn to it two parts of Ammoniac prepared, and one part of Mercury ſublimed, grind all very well together, and imbibe the Mixture with the Water of Salt-Alkali, or the Water of Salt-Peter (if you find not Zoza ^[2], or Zoda) and when imbibed, put it to be diſtilled with gentle, Fire, by which Extract the whole Water, ſo that what remains in the Bottom may be as melted Pitch: then revert the ſame Water upon it; and this do thrice, repeating the ſame labour. This being done, take out the Matter, grind it upon a Stone, and dry it very well. Afterward imbibe it with rectified or dryed Oyl of Eggs; or with Oyl of Salt-Alkali, or Peter, or Tartar, until it flow with ingreſs; and project one part upon five of Tin prepared, and it will be Luna perfect in the ſecond Order, without Error.

Alſo another Medicine upon Jupiter. ℞. Talk calcined and grind it with as much as it ſelf is of Salammoniac, and ſublime it three or four times; and diſſolve into Water, wherewith imbibe Luna calcined (as you did in the firſt Medicine) ſo often, as until it hath drunk in as much as its own Weight is; and give ingreſs to it with the Oyls aforeſaid, and project one part upon ten Parts of Jupiter prepared, and you will ſee your Intent compleatly anſwered.

A third Medicine of Jupiter is made with one part of Luna diſſolved in its own Water (viz. of the Stillicidy of Copper, and Salt-Peter) as in the End is declared; with which muſt be adjoyned two parts of Talk diſſolved or of Tutia calcined and diſſolved: then receiving the Water off by Diſtillation three or four times, congeal, and incerate with Arſnick ſublimed, until it flow and have ingreſs. Of this project one part upon eight parts of Jupiter prepared. If you would project theſe Medicines upon Saturn prepared for the White, diminiſh Saturn in its three Days, and do as you did in Jupiter.

CHAP. XVIII.

Of Solar Medicines for Jupiter and Saturn.

THE firſt Solar Medicine is thus made. Calcine Sol, amalgamating firſt with Mercury, and as in Luna expreſs the Mercury through a Cloath: then grind it with twice ſo much as it ſelf is of Common-Salt prepared, and ſet the whole over a gentle Fire, that the remaining Mercury may recede. Extract the Salt with ſweet Water, and dry the Calx, from which ſublime as much of Salammoniac, reverting the ſublimed Salt upon it four times; then diſſolve it in the Water of Vitriol, and Peter, and Jamenous Allom, as is taught in the end of this Book. Likewiſe diſſolve Crocus made of Iron by Calcination, or Copper calcined Red. Joyn theſe Waters in equal parts; draw off the Water by Diſtillation, and revert it upon it four times. Laſtly, Dry the Matter, and imbibe it with Oyl of Tartar rectified (as in the end of this Book) until it flow as Wax, and tinge four parts into Gold Obrizon.

The ſecond is made with Sol diſſolved (as in the firſt) and a like quantity of Greenneſs made of Copper calcined, and diſſolved, being both mixed, and incerated; by diſtilling and reiterating, and in the end incerating with Sulphur prepared, until it flow as Wax, and tinge eight parts of Saturn ſplendidly.

The third is made of Gold diſſolved, and Sulphur diſſolved, and of the aforeſaid Greenneſs diſſolved, and theſe mixt and prepared (as in the ſecond) and laſtly incerated with the Oyl of Hairs prepared, or of Eggs, for the way is one; and one part of this falls upon ten of Saturn. Theſe Medicines may alſo be projected upon Jupiter prepared for the Red, and ſo it will be a moſt ſplendid perſevering Matter, as the fineſt Work, according to its Degree. For theſe Medicines alter in the ſecond Order, as We ſaid.

CHAP. XIX.

Of White Medicines for Venus and Mars.

NOW We come to the Medicines of Venus and Mars; and firſt We ſhall ſpeak of the Medicines of theſe for the White. ℞ of Silver as above calcined, one part, and grind the ſame with two parts of Arſnick prepared, and one part of Mercury precipitate; and imbibe the whole with Water of Salt-peter, Lithargiry, and Ammoniac, in equal parts, until it hath drunk in its own Weight of that Water; then dry and incerate with White Oyl, as in others you have done, until it flow, and one part fall upon four of Venus or Mars prepared.

A ſecond Medicine is made of Luna calcined, and as much of Jupiter calcined and diſſolved; mix, dry, and incerate with double their quantity of Arſnick ſublimed, until the Medicine flows well.

A Third is made of Luna calcined, as above, and of Arſnick and Sulphur ſublimed and ground with it, and then ſublimed with a like quantity of Salammoniac. This Sublimation repeat thrice, and then project one part upon ſix of theſe Bodies prepared.

CHAP. XX.

Of Red Medicines for Venus and Mars.

A Solar Medicine is thus made. ℞ of Tutia, lib. 1. Calcine and diſſolve it in the Water of Vitriol and Peter; then, with that Water imbibe the Calx of Sol, that it may drink in double its own Weight of the ſame Water. Afterward by diſtillation receive the Water from it, and revert it upon the Calx four times. Laſtly, incerate with the Oyl of Hairs, or of Bulls-Gall, and Verdigreeſe prepared, and it will be excellent, pure and laudable. But do you direct your Hands according to our Sayings, otherwiſe you Study in vain; and in your Heart receive our Intention (expreſſed in our Volumes (for ſo doing you will diſcern, that we have made a true ſearch.

CHAP. XXI.

Of a Medicine of the third Order, for the White.

HEnce We aſcend to the degree of the third Order, Firſt We will treat of the Lunar Medicine, as well for perfecting imperfect Bodies, as for Coagulating Mercury it ſelf into true Luna. Therefore diſſolve Luna calcined, in ſolutive Water, as before; which being done, coct it in a Phial with a long Neck, the orifice of which muſt be left unſtopt, for one day only, until a third part of the Water be conſumed. This being effected, ſet it with its Veſſel in a cold place, and then it converts to ſmall fuſible Stones, like Cryſtall. This is Silver reduced to our Mercury, fixed and fuſible; of which ℞ four Ounces; of White Arſnick prepared, 6 Ounces, and of Sulphur prepared 2 Ounces. Mix all together, well grinding them with Salt-peter, and Ammoniac. Then put the Mixture into a Phial with a long Neck, keeping the ſame in Heat for a Week, and in that time the Matter will be hard as Pitch. This take out, and again incerate the third time, and within three days you will find it an Oyl in Flux. When the Veſſel is cold break it, and take what you find therein, which will be in a Lump fixed, and flowing as Wax. This is the firſt Degree. Again, Take as much as before of New Matter, and joyn the ſame with this Ferment, and do as before, and conſequently a third and fourth time. Thus doing, you will find a Medicine, which is great and excellent in Goodneſs: for one part of it falls upon ten of every Body, or of Mercury, and converts it into true Luna.

Keep this Stone, and conſiderately ruminate of what We have taught in our Summe of Perfection, and you will attain to higher Things, For our purpoſe was not in one only Volume to demonſtrate all Things; but that Book ſhould declare Book, and expound the ſame.

CHAP. XXII.

Of a Solar Medicine of the Third Order.

THe Solar Medicine is of Sol diſſolved and prepared after the manner of Luna's Preparation, to which you muſt add of Sulphur diſſolved three Parts, and of Arſnick one part (as in the end is ſhewed) through all Things doing, as in the Lunar Chapter; and it will be a Medicine tinging every Body, and Mercury it ſelf, into true Sol, or better, according to the way now ſhewed.

Read and peruſe our Summe of Perfection, and you will find the Method of the Regimen there preſcribed, by which you may tinge to Infinity, if you poſſeſs a ſharp and good Wit, and be not moved this way and that way with the divers ambiguous Sayings of Philoſophers. For they all tend to the one Perfection, by Us ſufficiently deſcribed to you. You may make Tryal, if you be able; if not forbear; becauſe you will ſuſtain Loſs and reap nothing but Emptineſs.

CHAP. XXIII.

Of Solutive Waters and Incerative Oyls.

SOn of Doctrine, ſearch out Experiments, and ceaſe not; becauſe in them you may find Fruit a Thouſand-fold. For We writ this Book only for you, which We are willing to compleat with certain Waters and Oyls, very neceſſary in Our Magiſtery: With theſe We ſhall conclude our Book of the Invention of Perfection. And firſt We ſhall begin with Our Diſſolutive Water, of which We made Mention in Our Summe of Perfection, when We ſpeak of Diſſolution with the Acuity of VVaters.

Firſt ℞ of Vitriol of Cyprus, lib 1. of Salt-peter, lib. ſs. and of Jamenous Allom one fourth part; extract the VVater with Redneſs of the Alembeck (for it is very Solutive) and uſe it in the before alleadged Chapters. This is alſo made much more acute, if in it you ſhall diſſolve a fourth part of Salammoniac; becauſe that diſſolves Gold, Sulphur, and Silver.

Our other Philoſophical Cerative VVater, is this: ℞ Oyl diſtilled from the VVhites of Eggs, grind it with half ſo much of Salt-peter, and of Salammoniac, equal parts, and it will be very good. Or mix it with Salt-Alcaly, and diſtill as before. And the more you reiterate this Labour, the better it incerates. Or, conjoyn the aforeſaid Oyl, with Oyl of Tartar, and thence diſtill a VVhite Incerative Oyl.

A Red Incerative Oyl is thus made: ℞ Oyl of the Yolks of Eggs, or of Humane-Hairs, to which adjoyn as much of Salammoniac, and diſtill the Mixture; repeat this Diſtillation three times, and it will be a moſt red Incerative Oyl.

Oyl of Verdigreeſe is made, when Verdigreeſe is diſſolved in Water of Salammoniac, and when with the ſame congealed, the Oyl of Eggs is mixed, the Mixture diſtilled, and the Diſtillation thrice repeated. For ſo operating, you will have the Oyl of Verdigreeſe apt and profitable for Incerating.

Oyl of Gall is made, by extracting an Oyl from Gall, as from Humane Hairs; through all Things doing as in the other.

I do not ſay, that theſe can give a Mineral Radical Humidity, as We proved in Sulphur and Arſnick; but they preſerve the Tincture from Combuſtion, until it enters, and afterward they flie in augmentation of the Fire, as is elſewhere declared by Us. Whatſoever Artiſt ſhall perfectly and ſtudiouſly operate, according to Our Sayings contained in this Our Book; he, after Compleatment of his Work, will find, that We have truly Searched. And in this, Our Book is terminated, which is intituled, Of the Invention of Verity, or Perfection.

THE END.

GEBER, The Famous Arabian Prince and Philoſopher, His BOOK, Of FURNACES.

The PREFACE, dividing this BOOK into Three Parts.

VVE have conſidered with a Conſideration not phantaſtick, That in Our Volumes We have amply treated of the whole Art. Yet, that We may not be obnoxious to the Cenſure of the Envious, We have Writ this Book of Furnaces, in which We ſhall deliver the Manual Practice, in Preparations both of Spirits and of Bodies; that Artificers may the better attain to the Compleatment of the Work.

Therefore, ſeeing the ultimate Conſideration conſiſts in the Knowledge of Things more nigh, and in the way of Operating; and Things may be extracted from Things, by the Regimen of Fire: and for as much as We cannot attain to this, unleſs by ſeparating Superfluities from the deſired Subject, viz. The Combuſtibilities, and Terreſtreities of Sulphur, defiling every Body; hence it is, that We intend Firſt to treat of all the VVayes of Operating; as namely, what the Furnace is, with its Inſtruments, which hath reſpect to every Thing to be prepared, even unto Compleatment of the VVork, with the Regimen of Fire appropriate to it; and what Veſſels are fit for the purpoſe, that the Artiſt may with them compleat his Operation. Secondly, We will ſhew, what Things are to be prepared; that he may be able, of Things Simple or Commixt, to generate Sol, or Luna, with ſplendour. Thirdly, We will declare thoſe Things, which may be perfected with Alteratives, and which are naturally altered with Total Compleatment: and the way of Permixing with due Proportion, and with Medicines by a long time prepared thereunto.

But at the End and towards the Cloſe of this Book, We will ſet down a Recapitulation of all Our Experiments, by which We attained to the Knowledge of this Verity.

The Firſt Part of this Book, Of the Wayes of Operating.

CHAP. I.

Of the Calcinatory Furnace.

LEt the Calcinatory Furnace be made ſquare, in length four foot, and three foot in breadth, and let the thickneſs of the Walls be half a foot; after this manner: Luna, Venus, Mars, or other Things to be calcined, muſt be put into Diſhes or Pans of moſt ſtrong Clay, ſuch as of which Crucibles are made, that they may perſiſt in the Aſperity of Fire, even to the total Combuſtion of the Thing to be calcined. Calcination is the Treaſure of a Thing; be not you weary of Calcination; but ſtudy what We have ſaid in Our Volumes. For Imperfect Bodies are cleanſed by Calcination, and by Reduction of the Calcinate into a Solid Body, or Maſs. Then is Our Medicine projected upon them, and cauſe given to you of Joy.

CHAP. II.

Of the Sublimatory Furnace.

LEt your Sublimatory Furnace be made after the manner, as is before compleatly taught, in Our Summe of Perfection, touching the Sublimation of Spirits; according to this Form.

In Sublimation of Sulphur, the Cover of the Sublimatory muſt be made with a great and large Concavity within, after the manner of an Alembeck without a Noſe: for otherwiſe the whole Sublimate may deſcend to the Bottom of the Veſſel, through too great Heat. Becauſe in the end of the Sublimation, the Sulphur aſcends not, unleſs with force of Fire, even to Ignition of the Aludel; and if the Sulphur be not retained in the Concavity above, ſeeing it eaſily flows, it will deſcend again, by the Sides of the Veſſel, to the very Bottom, and ſo nothing will be found ſublimed; as is known to the Expert.

CHAP. III.

Of the Diſtillatory Furnace.

THe Diſtillatory Furnace is the ſame with the Sublimatory. But Fire muſt be adminiſtred according to the Exigency of Things to be Diſtilled. The way of Diſtilling, as well of Minerals, as of Vegetables, We have ſufficiently deſcribed in Our Sum of Perfection.

CHAP. IV.

Of the Deſcenſory Furnace.

THe Deſcenſory Furnace is made as before deſcribed, and it is wonderfully uſeful to Us, and to the Melters of Metals by Cineritiums and Cements. For all Calcined, Combuſt, Diſſolved, and Coagulated Bodies, are reduced by this Furnace into a Solid Maſs. Yea, Cineritiums and Cements, and Teſts, or Crucibles, into which Silver is often Melted, are put into this Furnace, for recovering the Metal imbibed.

CHAP. V.

Of the Fuſory, or Melting Furnace.

THe Fuſory Furnace is that, in which all Bodies are eaſily melted by themſelves; and it is a Furnace much in uſe among Melters of Metals for Coining Money: alſo Aurichalcum is melted in theſe Furnaces, and tinged with Tutia, or Calaminaris; as is known to the experienced.

CHAP. VI.

Of the Solutory, or Diſſolving Furnace.

THe Diſſolutory, or Diſſolving Furnace, Is made with a Pan full of Water, with Iron Inſtruments, in which other Inſtruments are Artificially retained, that they Fall not: theſe are the Veſſels, in which every Diſſolution is made. And this is the Form of the Furnace, and Veſſels.

CHAP. VII.

Of the Fixatory Furnace, or Athanor.

THe Fixatory Furnace muſt be made after the manner of the Furnace of Calcination; and in it muſt be ſet a deep Pan ſull of ſifted Aſhes. But the Veſſel, with the Matter to be fixed, being firſt firmly ſealed, muſt be placed in the midſt of the Aſhes, ſo that the thickneſs of the Aſhes underneath, and above in the Circuit of the Veſſel, may be anſwering to the thickneſs of four Fingers; or according to that, which you deſire to fix: becauſe in fixing one, a greater Fire is required, than in fixing another. By this Furnace, and by this Way the Ancient Philoſophers attained to the Work of the Magiſtery; which, Men truly Philoſophizing, is known to be ſufficiently demonſtrated in Our Books; and by thoſe eſpecially, who are true Searchers of Verity.

This is the Figure of the Athanor. Yet if any One can more ingeniouſly invent the like, let not Our Invention retard him from ſo doing.

The Second Part of this Book, Of Things to be prepared.

CHAP. VIII.

Of the Preparations of Middle-Mineral Spirits, and Allomes.

IN this Chapter I will declare the Preparations of Spirits, and firſt of Mercury: which if you would perfectly ſublime, you muſt add to every pound of it two pounds and an half of Common Salt, and half a pound of Salt-peter. Mortifie the Mercury wholly, grinding all together with Vinegar, until nothing of the Mercury appear living in the Mixture; and ſublime it, as you know: becauſe it is profitable.

Red Mercury is thus ſublimed, viz. One pound of it is mixed, and perfectly well ground together, with one pound of Salt-peter, and one pound of Vitriol, and from them it is ſublimed Red and Splendid. But Arſnick is ſublimed thus, viz. From one pound of the Filings of Venus, half a pound of Common Salt, and one quarter of a pound Of Allom calcined. Firſt mortifie theſe with Vinegar, ſtirring them over a Fire, until the whole be blackned; and again, imbibe and dry, ſtirring as before; and do this the third time: then ſublime the^[3] Azymum, and it is profitable.

Sulphur boiled in a Lixivium and dryed, is ſublimed with the ſame Feces, as Arſnick; except that, inſtead of the Filings of Venus, into the aforeſaid Veſſel is put Filings of Mars, or the Scales thereof beaten to Powder. Salammoniac is ſublimed from Common Salt, &c. Tutia and Marchaſite are ſublimed, as is declared in Our Summe of Perfection. But Salts, Allomes, Boraxes, and Vitriols, are prepared as We have ſufficiently Writ in Our Book of Inveſtigation.

CHAP. IX.

Of the Calcination of Jupiter and Saturn.

JƲpiter is ſpecially calcined thus: Let a great Teſt (or calcining Pan) be placed in a Furnace, and Tin put into it, with as much of Common Salt prepared, and Roch Allom calcined. When the Metal is in flux, let it be always ſtirrred with an Iron Spatula full of Holes, until the whole be turned to Aſhes: which firſt Sift, and then ſet them in Fire again, keeping them conſtantly Fire-hot, until they be very well whitened; then keep the ſame for uſe.

Saturn is calcined after the ſame manner as Jupiter; but its Calx muſt be rubified, as Minium, and ſo kept.

CHAP. X.

Of the Calcination of Venus and Mars.

VEnus is thus calcined: In the aforeſaid Furnace is put either the Filings of Copper, or it by it ſelf, or with Arſnick pulverized, or with Sulphur, being anointed with Common Oyl, and ſo it is calcined in three or four Days, with moſt ſtrong Fire. Strike what is calcined, that it may fall off from the Plates, which again calcine: alſo, when the Calcinate is beaten, re-calcine it, until it be very well rubified; and ſo keep it.

Mars being filed is calcined in the aforeſaid Furnace, until 'tis very well rubified, and become a Powder impalpable, without touch. And it is called Crocus Martis.

CHAP. XI.

Of the Calcination of middle Minerals.

ALL Atraments, Salts, Allomes, and the kinds of Tutia, are calcined in the ſaid Calcinatory Furnace, with Tartar and other Things; with Fire moderate or ſtrong, according to the Exigency of Things to be calcined; as is evident in Our Book, Of the Inveſtigation of the Perfect Magiſtery; but all Bodies are calcined, as in Our Teſtament.

CHAP. XII.

Of the Ablutions of the Calxes of Combuſt Bodies.

THe Ablution of all Bodies combuſt and calcined, is thus made: Firſt you muſt have a large Earthen Veſſel, full of hot ſweet Water. With this waſh any Calx of a Body calcined, ſtirring it often, that all the Salt and Allom may be diſſolved; then when it hath ſetled, evacuate the Water warily, that none of the Body paſs out with the Lotion. Put the Calcinate again into Hot Water, and repeat the Labour, as before, until it be perfectly well waſhed; then keep it.

CHAP. XIII.

Of the Incerations of Calxes waſhed.

INcerations of Calxes waſhed, are thus made: Dry the waſhed Calx; afterwards diſſolve in diſtilled Vinegar lib. 2. Of Common Salt, Roch Allom, Salt Gemme, of each two Ounces. With this Water imbibe Four Ounces of the aforeſaid waſhed, and dryed Calx, until it hath drunk in all the ſaid Water, then dry it, and reſerve the ſame for uſe.

CHAP. XIV.

Of the Reduction of Calxes into a Solid Maſs.

REduction of that waſhed and incerated Calx, is thus made: Waſh the incerated Calx with diſtilled Ʋrine, until you have extracted all the Salts and Allomes, with the Filth of the calcined Body; which, being dryed, imbibe with Oyl of Tartar, in which diſſolve to one pound of the Oyl, Two Ounces of Sallammoniac, and One Ounce of Salt-peter. But of the Calx there muſt be Four Pound; and ſuch Imbibition muſt be made at ſeveral times, drying and imbibing. Then laſtly dry it, and cauſe it to deſcend in a great Deſcenſory, and reduce into a ſolid Maſs, the Body purged from Combuſtible Sulphureity, by virtue of the Fire calcining; and from foul Terreſtreity, which in Reduction retain with themſelves the Feculency of the Earth; the Body being purified from accidental Impurities, which had acceſs to it in its Minera. But its Foulneſs innate in the Radix of its Generation, muſt be palliated (or illuſtrated) with a Medicine, the greater part of which contains in it ſelf the ſubſtance of Argentvive, according to the Exigency of Art, as is by Us often demonſtrated in Our Summe of Perfection.

CHAP. XV.

Of the Solutions of Bodies prepared, and of certain Conjunctions of them, with certain Proportion, that they may appear with better Brightneſs after their Reduction.

BOdies are twofoldly reduced to Perfection, either by the way of Preparation, and by Commixtion of Perfect Bodies with the Imperfect; or by Medicine prepared for the purpoſe. But here We ſhall declare, why the Perfect perfects the Imperfect; and alſo, that the Imperfect is reduced to Perfection, with Preparations by Us generally demonſtrated: and theſe Preparations in this Chapter We purpoſe ſufficiently, and in a more ſpecial manner to treat of.

Firſt We declare, that the Body cleanſed (as is aforeſaid) by the way of Calcination and Reduction, muſt either be filed, or divided into ſmall Graines, as is known: For after Fuſion, it is by us poured out upon a Table bored full of ſmall Holes, over cold Water; the Water being ſtrongly ſtirred while this is doing. This is Our way of Granulating. This Granulate Body diſſolve in Our Diſſolutive Water, which is made of Salt-peter and Vitriol, as to the one half thereof; or diſſolve Filings of the ſame Body into a Limpid Water; then add to it of Ferment prepared, to a third part of its own weight: Extract the Water, and revert it; this do ſeven times. After it is reduced into Body, prove it by its Examen, and you will rejoyce in this, that you have generated.

But becauſe We have treated of the perfect Adminiſtration of Imperfect Bodies, We will now give the ſpecial, true, and certain Rules of every Body: and begining firſt with Jupiter, We ſay, After you have prepared Jupiter, and reduced it, diſſolve the ſame in the Acuity of Waters, and to nine parts of this (diſſolved as We ſaid) adjoyn one part of Talk calcined and diſſolved, mixing the clear Waters. This Water rectifie by Alembeck, ſeven times extracting and reverting. After the laſt Rectification is made, give to it of the Water of Salt-peter, imbibing and drying, and reduce it into a clean Body, ſuſtaining Ignition, and the Cineritum. For if you conjoyn Argentvive, precipitated and diſſolved, as We ſaid, after Reduction you will find a noble Body, under the afore-mentioned Proportion.

The Regimen of Saturn is compleated, it being prepared and diſſolved, with a third part of its red Ferment alſo diſſolved; which being prepared as before, you will rejoyce to find it ſo fair a Body.

We, more ſpecially handling the Regimen of Venus, have declared; that you ought ſeven times, or oftner, to rectifie it, when prepared and diſſolved; diſtilling off the Water, and reverting them thereon, each time. Which being coagulate, thence make a moſt noble Greenneſs with Salammoniac diſſolved in diſtilled Vinegar. That Greenneſs rubifie in a Veſſel of Mars, and again diſſolve it; to which Solution adjoyn a third part of prepared and diſſolved Luna; afterward extracting and reverting the Water of Ferment ſeven times. Then reduce this into Body, and you will rejoyce.

The Regimen of Mars is as of Venus, but by reaſon of its very great Foulneſs, you can expect no good from it.

The Regimen of Luna is thus: Diſſolve and coagulate it ſeven times, or at leaſt four times. And to it diſſolved, adjoyn the fixed rubifying Waters, which We have declared, and you will find the Body aptly Solar: for it agrees with Sol, and remains quietly with it. In this, Venus, admirably well purged and diſſolved, may be a great help to you; becauſe a moſt clean, tinging, and fixed Sulphur may be extracted from it. And I tell you, that Mercury purified and fixed, hath power to palliate (or illuſtrate) the Foulneſs of Imperfect Bodies; and fixed Sulphur extracted pure from Bodies, to colour them with Splendor. Hence you may collect a great Secret, viz. That Mercury and Sulphur may be extracted, as well from imperfect Bodies duely prepared, as from the perfect. For purified Spirits, and middle Minerals, are an Help, and very peculiar, for deducing the Work to Perfection.

The Third Part, Of Bodies to be perfected, and of Alterative Medicines.

CHAP. XVI.

Of the way of Perfecting, according to the Third Order.

HAving above ſufficiently treated of all the ways of perfecting Imperfect Bodies, in the Second Order, We muſt now paſs on to the Bounds of the Third Order. But what the Medicines are, and of what kind, both of the ſecond and third Order, is plainly enough demonſtrated in Our Book of the Perfect Magiſtery; where we have with a competent and true Demonſtration, ſhewed, that Our Stone is procreated of the Subſtance of Argentvive: and this We did ſufficiently, as in a ſpeculative Theorical Book. Therefore We intend here manifeſtly to unlock the Cloſure of Art, and it is thus: You muſt ſtudy to reſolve Luna, or Sol, into its own Dry VVater, which the Vulgar call Mercury: and this ſo, as a Duodenary Proportion (of the Solutive VVater) may contain only a part of the perfect Body. For if with gentle Fire, you well govern theſe, you will find (in the ſpace or forty Days) that Body converted into meer VVater. And the ſign of its perfect Diſſolution, is Blackneſs appearing on its Superficies.

But if you endeavour to perfect both Works, the White, and the Red, diſſolve each of the Ferments by it ſelf, and keep it. This is Our Argentvive extracted from Argentvive, which We intend for Ferment. But the Paſte to be fermented, We extract, in the uſual manner, from imperfect Bodies. And of this We give you a general Rule; which is, that the White Paſte is extracted from Jupiter, and Saturn; but the Red from Venus and Saturn. Yet every Body muſt be diſſolved by it ſelf in the Ferment.

CHAP. XVII.

Of the Regimen of Jupiter and Saturn.

BEcauſe We intend in this Chapter to demonſtrate the Regiment of Jupiter and Saturn; We firſt ſignifie, that this Chapter is for the White, and the way is thus: ℞ lib. 1. of moſt clean Tin, and melt it, to which being in Flux, add twelve pounds of well cleanſed Mercury, ſtirring the whole, that they may be mixed. This Mixture put into a Phial having a Neck of a foot in length; which Phial place in an Athanor, and likewiſe another Phial with Saturn ſo prepared; adminiſtring a gentle Fire to them for a Week. In which time you will have a Paſte diſſolved, fit to be fermented with the VVhite Ferment, according to the Proportion, which We ſhall here following ſhew. Let there be four parts of the Paſte of Jupiter, three parts of Saturn, and one part of the VVhite Ferment. Theſe, being diſſolved, as We ſaid, muſt be mixed through their leaſt parts, and ſet in Putrefaction (after the manner of Our Diſſolution of moderate Fire) for ſeven Days: this time expired, let them be taken out, well mixed, and their more liquid Parts expreſſed through a Cloth. What remains thick, put into a well ſealed Glaſs, which place in the Athanor, as before, for the time aforeſaid; and ſo do thrice, until it hath imbibed all the Humidity. Then put your Veſſel with its Matter, in the Furnace of Fixation for twelve Days; which being expired, take it out, and reduce it with Things reducing. And you will find that, which our Anceſtors found not without very great Study, viz. The Generate generating. The ſame you may joyn with Lead in the Cineritium, and you will find the Body perfect in Whiteneſs, perpetually generating its like. The Expoſition of which, together with what We have Written thereof, I (with all my Anceſtors) leave to my Succeſſors.

CHAP. XVIII.

Of the Regimen of Venus and Saturn.

OF the Paſte of Venus let there be three pounds, of Saturn two, and of Ferment one. Of theſe perfectly diſſolved, make Commixtion through their leaſt Parts, which keep in Heat, as in the White is ſaid. Extract the Water, and what remains in the Cloth, put into a well ſealed Glaſs, for three Weeks. Then take it out, and render to it a third part of its own reſerved Water, and coct, as in the precedent Chapter; and this do thrice. But when it hath imbibed all its Water, put it in its proper Veſſel, and Furnace to be fixed. When fixed, with Things reducing, reduce it into Body ready to be augmented and tinged.

CHAP. XIX.

Of the Regimen of Mars.

SEeing the Solution of Mars is found very difficult, We ſhall in the End of this Book, treat of many Ways, and alſo ſet down diverſe other Experiments made by us. Therefore, of the Paſte of Mars let there be lib. 2. of Venus lib 4, and of Saturn alſo lib. 4. Mix theſe without Ferment, and coct the Mixture for ſeven Days, and you will find the whole Dry. Fix it, and put it, together with half its weight of Lithargiry beaten to Powder, into a Reductory, and you will find a Mineral Body very profitable, if you be wiſe, of which We have often made mention.

CHAP. XX.

Of the Regimen of Luna.

THe Regimen of Luna is the reducing it from its Minera, to a more noble State: and this is thus done: Diſſolve Luna, and of it take lib. 3, of Venus diſſolved, lib. 4, of Ferment diſſolved lib. 1. Conjoyn the Waters, coct them for ſeven Days with gentle Fire in a ſealed Glaſs, as in Mars, with their whole Water; then augment the Fire leiſurely for other ſeven Days, and let it be as Fire of Sublimation. But for other ſeven Days give it Fire ſomewhat more ſtrong, that the whole Water may be fixed with it. This Powder reduce in a ſmall Quantity: and if it retain with it ſelf part of the Mercury (which you will eaſily perceive, if you know how to calcine) it is well indeed; but if not, again put it to be fixed, until it be ſufficiently fixt. This muſt be reduced with Red reducing Things; and then you will find your Luna coloured, tranſmuted and fixed, which highly eſteem. For if you well Study in Our Volumes, you will find by Our Conſideration, upon what Subjects, the true Searcher ought to ground his Action.

CHAP. XXI.

Of the Regimen of Mercury.

THe Regimen of Mercury is compleated two ways, Firſt, You muſt amalgamate it, well waſhed and purified, in the certain Proportion by Us under-written. In the ſecond way, you muſt diſtill it, and thence make an Aquavitae. For the firſt Way the Proportion is this: Of Mercury 48 ounces, of Sol 1 ounce; of Luna 1 ounce, of Venus 1 ounce, and of Saturn 1 ounce. Melt theſe Bodies; firſt the Venus and Luna; ſecondly, the Sol, thirdly, Saturn. Take all out of the Fire, having melted them in a large Crucible, and your Mercury in readineſs made hot in another; and when the ſaid Metals begin to harden, pour in the Mercury leiſurely, ſtirring the Mixture with a Stick, ſetting it again on the Fire, and taking it off, until they be all amalgamated with the whole Mercury. This Amalgama, put to be diſſolved for ſeven Dayes, extract the Water with a Cloth, make the Reſidue volatile, adminiſtring Fire of Ignition. This again imbibe with its whole VVater, and put it to be generated; and again to be dryed for forty Dayes, and you will find a Stone; which put to be fixed, and you will have a Stone augmentable to Infinity. Therefore keep this Book, even from thy own Son; becauſe it expounds all Things, which We have Written in divers Books.

CHAP. XXII.

Of the Ferment of Luna, for the White.

THe Ferment of Luna for the VVhite is made, when Luna is diſſolved in its own Corroſive Water, and this Water boiled away to a third part, and that expoſed to the Air, or ſet in B. M. or in Dung, for certain Dayes. For then it will be Oyl of Luna, and Ferment, which keep for the White.

CHAP. XXIII.

Of the Ferment of Sol, for the Red.

THe Ferment of Sol is made, when Gold is diſſolved in its own Water, and decocted and prepared according to the aforeſaid Chapter of the Ferment of Luna. For ſo, it will be the Ferment of Sol, for the Red, which keep.

CHAP. XXIV.

Of Ferment of Ferment upon Mercury, as well for the White, as for the Red.

THe Compoſition of Our Medicine, which is called Ferment of Ferment upon Mercury, is made for the White, after this manner: Take the Ferment of Luna, which is its Oyl, and add to it twice ſo much of Arſnick ſublimed and diſſolved in Water; then to both theſe add of Mercury diſſolved, as much as of the Arſnick. Mix the Waters, and ſet them over a Fire for one Day to be incorporated. Afterward, extract the Water by Alembeck, and revert it; this do fifteen times, ſo incerating, and it will be fluid, as fuſible Wax. Then add to it as much Virgins Wax melted, commix them, and project the Mixture upon Mercury waſhed, according as ſhall ſeem expedient to you. For that reſolved is augmented in vertue and weight.

But if this Ferment of Ferment be made for the Red: Diſſolve Sol in its own Water (all the Compoſitions of thoſe Waters, and of other Things, are ſufficiently treated of in Our Book, Of the Invention of Perfection; wherefore We have here omitted them) to one part of that Gold diſſolved, add two parts of Sulphur diſſolved in the ſame Water together with it, and three parts of Mercury diſſolved. Let all theſe be truly diſſolved into moſt clear Waters, which being mixt coct for one Day, that they may be fermented; then extract the Water fifteen times, each time reverting it. Incerate with yellow Virgins Wax; that is, with half its weight of Oyl of Blood, or Oyl of Eggs: then project upon crude Mercury, according as ſhall ſeem expedient to you.

Here note, that if you perfect this Medicine, according to the Method We have taught (in the Third Order of Our Sum of Perfection) of the Congelative Medicine of Mercury, you will find by Reiteration of the Work, and by Subtiliation thereof, that one Part tingeth infinite Parts of Mercury into moſt high Sol, more noble than any natural Gold.

CHAP. XXV.

A Recapitulation of the Experiments of the Author.

FOr as much as I intended in this Volume to declare all dubious Things, I will conclude my Book with all the true Experiments, which have been proved and tryed by me. By theſe true Operations, the new Searcher may perceive the Verity, or Falſity of divers Sophiſtical Receipts, and ſo not ſpend his time unprofitably; and likewiſe diſcern what is good, in the Receipts of falſe Operators. And firſt of Spirits only, and afterwards conſequently of others, as well of Bodies, as of Spirits, with their Methods We intend to ſpeak. But this Chapter is divided into two Parts: Firſt We declare the Experiences of the Ancients proved by Us: Secondly, the Rectifications of them all. Yet, as We have begun, We muſt firſt inſiſt upon thoſe Works which are of Whiteneſs.

A good Dealbation ℞ of Realgar ℥ 1, of Argentvive ſublimed, ℥ 3, ſs. of Tartar calcined, ℥ 1. grind and incorporate, and put them in a Phial with a Neck of a foot in length, and its orifice ſo wide, as two Fingers may enter: let it be luted, and ſet over a Fire, covered with a Cloth. Firſt make a gentle Fire for a quarter of an hour, afterward augment the Fire underneath, and round about, until the Furnace be very hot with Ignition. When all is cold, break the Veſſel, and take out what you find Metalline; and make of this a great Quantity. For I will now ſhew you the way, how this Medicine may be profitably rectified.

An Art[•]ficial Dealbation, Upon Tutia, ſublime one part of ſublimate Mercury, and two parts of Arſnick ſublimed, until it ſhall have Ingreſs. This clearly, and very ſpeciouſly whitens Venus.

Another Dealbation, Imbibe three parts of Mercury ſublimed, and two parts of Arſnick ſublimed, with Lithargiry diſſolved, until they become eight parts. To theſe eight adjoyn other eight parts of Arſnick ſublimed; grind them together, and flux them with Oyl of Tartar, and you will whiten prepared Venus, at pleaſure.

Alſo another, Grind Metalline Arſnick, with as much of the Calx of Luna, and imbibe the Mixture with the Water of Salarmoniac, and dry and grind; afterward diſſolve Salt of Tartar in the Water of Salt-peter, with which Oyl imbibe the Medicine, dry it. Repeat this thrice, incerating and drying, and you will rejoyce for this, which We have now related.

Another of Ours, Imbibe Jupiter calcined, waſhed and dryed, ſo often with Metalline Arſnick, with half ſo much of ſublimed Mercury, as until it flows, and enters Venus: for it whitens the ſame (if firſt prepared) ſplendidly.

Alſo, upon Tutia calcined, diſſolved and coagulated, ſublime white Arſnick (ſo that of the Arſnick be three parts, but of the Tutia one part) reiterating the Sublimation upon it four times; for it hath ingreſs: with them adjoyn half as much as the whole is, of Sublimate Mercury; grinding and incerating four times with the Water of Salammoniac, Peter, and Tartar, of each alike. With this, when coagulated, cement prepared Plates of Venus, and melt, and you will have a very beautiful Thing.

Alſo Another, Grind Venus calcined and incerated; to this add Arſnick ſublimed, and half a part of Mercury ſublimed; with which being well ground and mixed, adjoyn a little of the Water of Ammoniac, incerating upon a Marble; afterward dry and ſublime. Revert the Sublimate upon the Feces, again imbibing, and ſo do thrice: the fourth time imbibe with the Water of Peter, and ſublime what can be ſublimed. Reiterate this Labour, until it remain fluid in the Bottom. This, in Copper prepared, will be reſplendent with Brightneſs.

Alſo, Upon the prepared Calx of Venus, ſo often ſublime Sublimate Arſnick, as until ſome part of the Arſnick remain with it in the Aſperity of Fire. That, imbibed with the Water of Peter, and laſtly incerated with the Water of Luna; and Mercury precipitate, and in the end with Oyl of Tartar rectified, until it flows, wonderfully whitens Venus and enters the ſecond Order, if you have wiſely walked in the Valleys of this Art. For I have elſewhere ſaid, that if you obtain any part of Mercury precipitated, in the Mixture, you will walk more ſplendidly; eſpecially, if the White Ferment, diſſolved with the Mercury diſſolved, after a certain Fixation of it, be adjoyned by the Medium of Inceration, you will find, that you have walked nigh the way it ſelf.

But, becauſe We have proved, that Jupiter, howſoever prepared, in the whole firſt Order, is totally unprofitable, what Magiſtery ſoever is followed in its Preparation; alſo Saturn and Mars; therefore, in Our Sum of Perfection, VVe aſſigned to it a Medicine of the Third Order; becauſe there, it is moſt excellently adorned, as is often proved in Our ſaid Sum of Perfection, and We have now proved and experienced de facto, infinite wayes, Yet We have Written more apt Things, touching the Dealbation of Venus.

CHAP. XXVI.

Mercurial Sports.

NOw I begin to ſpeak of Mercurial Playes or (Sports) make a Cement of Lithargiry of Silver, and Salt Alkaly of Zoza (or Soda) put the Cement firſt into a Crucible the Thickneſs of one Finger, upon that put a Globe of the Amalgamation of Mercury, and Luna, and put on the remainder of the Cement, that the Globe may be in the midſt of the Cement. Dry, Lute, and ſet the Crucible in a gentle Fire for half a Day, leiſurely augmenting the Fire; and ſo continue its leiſurely Increaſe, from the Evening, unto the Dawning of the Day, with moderate Ignition at laſt. Then take it out, prove it by Cineritium, and it will be Luna in weight, and Surdity, and much better in Fixation.

Alſo, Amalgamate Luna with Mercury, to which adjoyn as much of Saturn, as there is of the Luna. Put it into ſuch a Crucible, as that three fourths of it may be empty, pour on it Oyl of Sulphur, and coct it unto Conſumption of the Oyl: afterwards keep it for two Hours in a moderate Fire, and there will be generated a Stone Black, with a little Redneſs. This Stone prove by Cineritium, and you will find your Luna augmented in Weight, Surdity, and Fixation.

Alſo another, worthy to be thought on, Grind Luna amalgamated with Mercury, with twice ſo much Metalline Arſnick; to which adjoyn a ten-fold Proportion of Amalgamated Venus, viz. of Luna (I ſuppoſe Venus) and Arſnick. Grind the whole, and fix, and reduce into Body, and it ſhall be well with you.

CHAP. XXVII.

Of the Citrination, or Colouring of Luna.

HAving guided you to the Knowledge of thoſe Dealbations with the Magiſtery, We now come to ſpeak of the Citrination of Luna more ſpecially, than We did in Our Sum of Perfection. Diſſolve Our Philoſophick Zyniar, deduced from Venus prepared, in the Water of the Diſſolution of Luna; to which adjoyn half ſo much, as it ſelf is, of Mercury rubified by Sublimation, and in ſome ſort fixed, and diſſolved; to theſe, add as much of Luna diſſolved, as the Zyniar it ſelf is: from which, fermented for one day, extract the Water by Diſtillation, and revert it; do this ten times. In the end coagulate, and reduce into Body, and you will rejoyce for this Invention.

Otherwiſe, Diſſolve Zyniar and our Crocus prepared with the Sublimation of Mercury, until it wax Red; adjoyn as much Salammoniac, and ſublime it thrice from that Crocus, which diſſolve. The Crocus and Zyniar muſt be equal, to which adjoyn as much of Luna diſſolved, as there is of both. Do as you did in the precedent, incerating and reducing: for it is eaſie.

Alſo, We will ſhew you another way more eaſie; ℞ of Crocus and Zyniar diſſolved, of each a like Quantity, adjoyn to them as much Gold diſſolved. Incerate as before, in the End coagulate, and give to the Coagulate a fourth part of its own weight of the Oyl of Salt-peter; and project upon ſo much Luna, and it will be a Tincture with a Citrine Aſpect.

Otherwiſe and beſt, Make a Water of Our Zyniar, and of Our ſaid Crocus, and imbibe the Calxes of Sol and Luna (equal parts) therewith, until they have drunk in their own weight of it. In the end, incerate with the Oyl of Ammoniac, and Peter, and reduce into a noble Body.

Alſo, Sublime Ammoniac from Our Greenneſs, to which then adjoyn Crocus and Zyniar; from which well commixed ſublime the Ammoniac extracted from the aforeſaid, twice or thrice: and in the End diſſolve the whole, to which add a third part of Gold diſſolved. Incerate as before, and congeal; then project upon Sol and Luna, ſo that of Luna there be two parts, and of Sol one; and it will be good.

FINIS.

ERRATA'S.

PAge 10. line 5. read Spoliation, p. 13. l. 27. r. Porphiry; p. 16. l. 7. r. impalpable, p. 54. l. 5. r. Refutation; p. 59. l. 17. r. Stable; p. 60. l. 1. add and; l. 10. r. compounding; p. 64. l. 1. r. cocting; p. 95. l. 5. r. take; p. 120. r. Chap. 14. p. 121. l. 17. r. Ingenious; p. 133. l. 27. r. by; p. 140. l. 4. add in; p. 147. l. 2. dele the; p. 169. l. 30. r. participates; p. 177. l. 19. add it; p. 241. r. Chap. 2. p. ibid. l. 23. r. Apertion; p. 246. l. 3. r. unto; l. 6. dele to; p. 256. l. 10. r. there; p. 285. l. 13. r. it.

Marginal notes

1. This Deſcription is hard to be underſtood. ↩
2. Salt-Alkali made of Zoda. ↩
3. Or White Matter. ↩