1. PREFACE AND ENTRANCE UPON BASILIUS VALENTINUS His last TESTAMENT.
2. THE FIRST BOOK
3. THE SECOND PART OF BASILIUS VALENTINUS
4. THE THIRD PART - A Declaration of the XII. Keyes.
5. THE FOURTH PART
6. Of the great Stone of the An∣cient Philosophers
7. A short way and REPETITION Of former Writings of BASILIUS VALENTINUS
8. CONCLUSIONS AND EXPERIMENTS OF BASILIUS VALENTINUS
9. The second TREATISE Of vulgar Sulphur, Vitriol, and Magnet
10. Jod. V. R. A Processe upon the Philosophick work of Vitriol
11. The fifth and last part Of the last TESTAMENT Of FRIAR BASILIUS VALENTINUS
12. BASILIUS VALENTINUS HIS TREATISE. CONCERNING MICROCOSME

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

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

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

A Work long expected.

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


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

Let not the vitious hearts and hands pre∣sume to meddle with it, lest in stead of a blessing they should meet with a curse. Therefore,

Procul hinc, procul ite prophani.

In this book are contained these following heads.
1. THe nature, condition, and property of Myne-works, in which Minerals and Metals do grow; of their first seed, birth, quality, and property, and of their exhalation and inhala∣tion, how they are supported in their growth and augmentation.

2. The occasion of Oars, Stones, Rocks, Marbles, of their passages and Clefts, their Liquors, Juyces, Energies, and operations, viz. of Gold, Silver, Cop∣per, Iron, Tin, Lead, Quick-silver, and of Mine∣rals.

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

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


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

---

PREFACE AND ENTRANCE UPON BASILIUS VALENTINUS His last TESTAMENT.

WHereas the time is come, that by the good pleasure of Almighty God my Creator, and his dearly beloved Sonne JESUS CHRIST, my Labora∣torie in this corruptible World draweth to an end, and am to approach from this earthly La∣boratorie unto the heavenly, and am creeping dayly and hourly nearer to the end, and am to close accord∣ing to the appointed time of my dear Saviour, aiming at the true Manna, or heavenly food of Eternal blisse, sighing continually after the enjoying of such

riches, which have a fulnesse of everlasting joyes I thought it my duty in conscience, to be reconciled i• a Christian way to my fellow Members that are aliv• at the present, and with those, which are to succeed i• future ages, so that my Soul may be at rest, patient waiting for the Lords call, and to become an inhabi¦tant of that heavenly Paradise, and to be matricu¦lated into the book of life, and stand in readinesse da• and night to look for my Lords coming. At the consi¦deration hereof I call to minde my writings, which set down to paper, as other ancient Philosophers hav• done before me, publishing all such mysteries of na¦ture, whereby Artists, and such that bear an affe¦ction and love unto such mystical truths may be bene¦fited, and the same I lovingly and readily leave t• them, as much as the highest Spagyrick, and heaven¦ly Physician hath granted and revealed unto me; My conscience further hath pressed me, in the pursu¦ance of a Christian love, and performance of my pro∣mise, dictated by nature, to make a larger relation, be∣cause it is a thing meet and necessarie to set forth the Manuals which are belonging hereunto, and ought to be described circumstantially, to inform the judge∣ment of such men, addicted hereunto to the full; name∣ly how natures bolts, which she several wayes thrusted forward, to lock strongly her secrets, are to be thruste• back, that the doors of worldly Treasures might be unlockt, that the knowledge of transcendent mysterie• may be attained unto, & upon serious continued prayers unto the Creator, mens judgement and understanding might the more be egg'd on.


I am not put upon either by force or indigencie, nor by a vain-glorie, or self-end to set down any letter; and to leave it to posterity; onely a meer consideration of the frailty &, of the miserableness of this world where the Children of darknesse are almost quite lost in their groaping wayes, hath caused me to do so. I am not able to expresse how much my minde is perplexed, when I think on the folly of this frail world, and consider the Cymmerian darknesse of its Children, which think themselves of deep understanding, when they have heard some fopperies of their Ʋniversity Chair-men discoursed of, thereby supposing to be much enlight∣ned in their understandings. Where is that high and precious Medicine of the ancient Philosophers, which lived before any Ʋniversity was talk'd, or heard of, who received their Revelations upon an earnest pious prayer unto God, joyning thereunto their dayly search∣ings into natural things, and laying their hands to the work. Whither I say, is fled their painfulnesse and industry? Surely to no other place, than to the horrid, impure, and sordid Apothecaries shops, deeply precipi∣tated and buried in the earth, and sunk so deep, that the ringing nor sounding of bells, and beating of Mor∣ters are able to rouse it: thus their praise and the glo∣rie of the highest is at a stand! and who produceth any good of it? Thus much am I perswaded, that if my writings shall be produced to light after my death, and the judicious posteritie, the Apostles and Disciples of them do rightly read, meditate, nnd understand them well, and do out of a Christian intention seek, dive,

and work the same onely to the glorie of God, and the love and charity of their fellow brethren and Christi∣ans, than by means of their actions and works, that depend, from such good and proper fundamentals, will be discovered and laid open to the publick view, all those fopperies and forgeries, which these great mouth'd vain-glorious fellows, and high conceited fools, which proclaim themselves to be the sole Physicians and Ma∣sters of both Medicines, that is of the inward and out∣ward, and arrogate to themselves great dignities and worths in the world, when there is no cause for it. Their intentions are set upon no other foundations, but to live in great respect, to haunt after vain-glorie with a sear'd conscience, to deprive their fellow Christians of their monies by cheating, all they look for, is to be talk'd of, and live in reputation; they stick full of diabolical pride and vanity up to the ears, these in the end, in great woe and miserie have their poor Souls drowned most lamentably! woe, woe, to you Children of Sathan! Here I intend not to use any prolixity of words, nor to bring in any such matters, which are heterogeneal to my purpose; at the closing of my book I will be more large in my expressions, as far as the heavenly Prince shall enable me to do, where, as for a final Corollarie to all my writings, I shall annex things with that proviso and intreaty, that all those, which intend to be real, and conscionable in their Me∣dicaments, may aide & cure their oppressed fellow Chri∣stians, and to search and inquire into such things, which God for such purposes hath ordained, and implanted them into nature.


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

But know thou, whoever thou art, into whose hand this my last Testament comes, which contains the Re∣velation of heavenly and earthly mysteries, it will hap∣pen

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

which departed this life a long time before me, causing great joy to me, stirring up in me a return of hearty thanks to God, who so graciously was pleased in his providence to bestow them on me in the Cloyster before any of my Fellows.

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

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

O Lord God Almighty, mercifull, Gracious Father of thine onely begotten Son Jesus Christ, who art onely the Lord of Sabaoth, the principle of all things that are made by thy Word, and definite end of all

Creatures above and below; I poor miserable Man, and Earth-worm, return thanks with my babling tongue from the innermost Center of my heart, who hast been pleased to enlighten me with the great light of thy heavenly and earthly wisdom, and the greatest mysteries of the created secrecies and treasures of this World, together with thy Divine saving word, by which I learn to know thine Almighty power and won∣ders. To thee belongs eternal praise, honour, and glor•e, from eternity unto eternity, that thou hast bestowed on me health and lively hood, strength, and ability, to be helpfull to my fellow Christians in their necessities and inflicted infirmities with those mysti∣cal healing Medicines, together with such spiritual comforts, to raise the drooping spirits. Lord, to thee alone belongs power, might, and glorie, to thee is the praise, honour, and gratefulnesse, for all the mer∣cies and graces thou hast bestowed on me, and hast preserved me therein till to this my great age, and lowest weaknesse. O! thou God of all graces, and fa∣ther of all comforts, be not angrie with me, that I de∣liver up to thee, mine eternal Creator, the Keyes of my Stewardship, wrapt up in this Pergamene, according to the dutie, my calling and conscience calls for: with these thou suffer'st me to keep house the most of my time, till now, thou hast called, and foreseen me to be thy servant and Steward, and hast graciously afforded, that I should enjoy the noble sweet fruits, which were gathered in thy Almonarie to my last instant end, which now, O Lord, lieth in thy power. I beseech thee

for the dear merits of Jesus Christ, come now, whe thou pleasest, inclose my heart, receive my Soul into thy heavenly Throne of grace, let her be recommend∣ed unto thee graciously, O thou faithfull God, who hast redeemed her on the holy Crosse with the most pre∣cious Tincture of the true bloud of thy holy bodie: then is my life well ended on this earth, grant to the bodie a quiet rest, till at the last day, bodie and soul joyn again, and are of a heavenly composition: for now my onely desire is to be dissolved, and to be with my Lord Christ, The which thou Almighty, Holy, and Heavenly Trinitie grant to me, and all good Christian believers. Amen.

That I may come to the work intended, and make a beginning of the work in hand, if God be pleased to let this book come to thy hands, before all things un∣cessantly you return heartie, and unfeigned thanks for it: in the next place I beseech him to bestow on thee also grace and blessing, a healthfull bodie, succes∣fully to accomplish all the points set down here, which tend to the well-fare and benefit of thy Neighbour, and to prepare them according to the Manuals, which to that end I set down, and prescribe them, that you may happily and succesfully begin the work, that the middle and end be correspondent thereunto. Then be not flap-tong'd, and resolve absolutely in thy he••t, not to entrust with these mysteries any malicious, un∣gratefull, and false men, much lesse shouldst thou make them partakers thereof: for if Almightie God would bestow it on others, he could do it immediately,

and grant the same by other means and wayes with∣out thee. Therefore look to it, tempt not the Lord thy God, for he will not be mock'd. Be silent and re∣serving; be meditating on Gods punishment, which no your is able to out-run; keep a good intention; let not man greedie minde run on how you may get abundance of Gold and Silver riches, and vanitie, but before all things, which are written herein, let that be your chi fest aim, how you may appear helpfull in word and deed to promote the health of thy Neighbour Chri∣stian: Then have you given, and brought an offering of thanks and God will bestow more upon thee, and with such Revelations will come to thee, more than ever you would have believed.

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

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

But in case thou wilt strive against my faithfull

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

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


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

I.
In the first part of my intended work I will describe chiefly the manner nature and properties of Myne-works, in which grow Minerals and Metals, of the first sperm, nativitie, qualitie, and propertie, as also of the exhalation and inhalation.
II.
The second part shall be a kinde of recapitulation of the first part, where shall be contained also a relation of the condition and occasion of Mines, Oars, Stones, passages and Clefts, with their coherent liquors, powers and operations, as of Gold, Silver, Copper, Iron, Tin, Lead, Mercurie, and the rest of Minerals.
III.
In the third part is declared in manifest, and literal expressions without any defect and obscuritie, the Uni∣versal of this whole world, how all Philosophers be∣fore me, with me, and after me, have made that most

ancient great stone, whereby health and riches were obtained, of the possibility, how, and of what it may be done, together with a perfect Declaration of my XII. Keyes, with the names of our matter.
IV.
In the fourth part I describe all the particulars of Metals, which the one is endued with, before the o∣ther, out of which may be had perfect health, and an advantage unto the getting of great riches, with all the Manuals in general and particular, belonging there∣unto: this fourth part I have intituled, the Manuals of Basilius Valentinus, wherein is shewed how all Me∣tals, and Minerals, fitting thereunto, may be brought to their highest preparation.
V.
In the fifth part I have annexed the transcendent, most dear wonderfull Medicine of all Metals and Minerals, and of other things, which God Almighty had ordained, and graciously granted for men, who in the Valley of miserie are subject to sicknesses and povertie, that they may have a remedie to help them∣selves against both.
God the Father, of mercie and salvation, who li∣veth from eternitie to eternitie, being above all the Creatures, grant grace and blessing to this my pur∣pose, that I may write so, that every one may under∣stand,

and Gods infinite, mercie and that it together with his gracious goodness, redemption may seem known, ac∣knowledged, and continually meditated upon, and every one may call on the Great Creator day and night; granting to them fervent hearts so to direct all their thoughts, that they may make no otherwise of this no∣ble Creature of God and transcendent great mystery of Nature, together with the Automie thereof, but onely to the great honour of God, and the good of all good Children. The same grant this Father Son and Holy Ghost in his mercy. Amen.


TABLE.
The Contents of the first part of the book.
THe first Chapter treateth of the aetherial liquor of Metals. pag. 1.
The 2. Chap. treateth of the seed of Metals pag. 4
The 3. Chap. Of Metalline nutriment pag. 6
4. Of the shop, or officine of Metals pag. 9
5. Of the egression and ingression of Metals pag. 11
6. Of the dissolution and reduction of Metals pag. 14
7. Of the ascension and descension of Metals pag. 16
8. Of the respiring Metal, or quick Oar pag. 18
9. Of the expiring, or dying Metal. pag. 21
10. Of pure and fine Metal pag. 22
11. Of the impure Metal pag. 25
12. Of the perfect Metal pag. 27
13. Of the imperfect Metal pag. 30
14. Of the Soap Metal pag. 32
15. Of the inhalation, or inbreathing pag. 34
16. Of the exhalation and outbreathings pag. 36
17 Of coruscation, adhalation, or glittering pag. 38
18. Of folium and spolium, shimmer and glower pag. 39
19. Of the fuliginous, vapours and ashes pag. 40
20. Of the Metalline water, or lie pag. 42
21. Of the seed, and of the hull of the seed pag. 44
22. Of the shining, or fire rod pag. 45
23. Of the glowing rod. pag. 47
24. Of the leaping rod pag. 48
25. Of the furcilla, or striking rod pag. 50
26. Of the trembling rod pag. 52
27. Of the falling, or neather rod pag. 53
28. Of the superior rod pag. 55
29. Of resting vapours, or sediments pag. 57
30. Of the weather salt pag. 58
31. Of the stone salt pag. 59
32. Of the Subterranean Pools pag. 60
33. Of the Metalline Gold, or of the Metalline bed pag. 61

Chap. 34. Of Metalline streams pag. 62
35. Of Chalk, or stone Meal pag. 63
36. Of the blast pag. 64
37. Of the brittle stuff pag. 65
38. Of the blank fire pag. 66
39. Of the Mine glue pag. 67
40. Of corroding stuff to eat stones thorow pag. 68
41. Of having materials used for a sledd, or dray pag. 70
42. Of the frost in the Mine-works pag. 71
43. Of the flaming fire pag. 72
44. Of the roasting fire pag. 72
45. Of the corroding fire pag. 73
46. Of the glowing fire pag. 74
47. Of the Lamp fire pag. 74
48. Of the cold fire pag. 75
49. Of the warm fire. pag. 76
The Contents of the second part.
1. Chap. OF Mines and Clifts, what the middle works of Oars are pag. 81
2. Of the general operations of several Metals. pag. 82
3. Of stones, rocks, flints of Gold, & their striking courses pag. 84
4. Of the oar of silver, and its running, or striking pas∣sages pag. 86
5. Of Copper oar, its stone, and striking passage pag. 88
6. Of Iron oar, its stoks, floats, fallings and striking pas∣sages pag. 92
7. Of Lead oar, its Mine and striking passage pag. 95
8. Of Tin oar, its stoks, floats, fallings & striking passage pag. 98
9. Of Mercurial oar, and its passages pag. 100
10. Of Wismuth, Antimony, Sulphur, Salt, Salpeter and Talk pag. 101
11. Of a comparison between Gods word & the Minerals pag. 102
12. How Jewels are wrought, the blessings God bestows on Miners pag. 107
13. Of the essence of Gold pag. 108

The Contents of the third part, being a Declaration of the XII. Keyes.
The first is declared pag. 119
The second Key declared pag. 120
The third Key declared pag. 122
The rest are declared according to the course going on in that part pag. 125
The Contents of the fourth part, concerning the particulars made of the 7. Metals, how they may be pre∣pared with profit.
First of the Sulphur of Sol, whereby Lune is ting'd into Gold pag. 151
The particular of Lune, of the extraction of its Sulphur and Salt pag. 158
Of the particular of Mars, how its Sulphur and Salt is ex∣tracted pag. 161
Of the particular of Venus, how its Sulphur and Salt is ex∣tracted pag. 161
Of the particular of Saturn, how its Sulphur and Salt is ex∣tracted pag. 163
Of the particular of Jupiter, how its Sulphur and Salt is ex∣tracted pag. 169
Of the particular of Mercury, of its Sulphur and Salt pag. 170
Of the Oyl made of Mercury, and its Salt pag. 171
Of the particular of Antimony, its Sulphur and Salt pag. 172
A short way to make Antimonial Sulphur and Salt pag. 173
The XII. Keyes follow next. The Contents of that book are inserted at the begin∣ning of it.
Next to this is the repetition of the former writings, with an Elucidation of them, touching the Philosophers stone, and a true information annexed, concerning the prepara∣tions

of Mercurie, Antimonie, Vitriol water, common Sulphur, unslak'd Lime, Arsenic, Salpeter, Tartar, Vine∣gar, and Wine.

The next are the conclusion and experiments.
THe first Section treats of Sulphur, and the ferment of Philosophers pag. 1.
2. Section. Of the Philosophers Vitriol. pag. 2
3. Section. Of the Philosophers Magnet. pag. 3
An allegorical expression betwixt the holy Trinity, and the Philosophers stone pag. 5
A treatise of Sulphur pag. 6
Of Sulphur of Jupiter pag. 7
Of the Sulphur of Mars and Venus. pag. 8
Of the Sulphur of Sol pag. 8
Of the Sulphur of Mercury pag. 9
Of the Sulphur of Lune pag. 10
Of Antimonial Vitriol pag. 10
Of the Sulphur of Vitriol pag. 11
Of common Sulphur pag. 11
Of Vitriols, first of the Vitriol of Sol and Lune pag. 12
Of Vitriol of Saturn and Jupiter pag. 13
Of Vitriol of Mars pag. 13
Of Vitriol of Venus pag. 13
Of Vitriol of Mercury pag. 14
Of common Vitriol pag. 15
Of the vulgar Magnet pag. 16
A Philosophick work upon Vitriol pag. 17
To bring quick Mercury to a Lunar fixation: pag. 21
The contents of the fifth and last part.
TReateth of the great Medicinal vertue of the Metalline and Mineral Salt pag. 1.
A description of the fine Tartar pag. 6.
Of the Salt of Tartar. pag. 7.
Page 1

---

THE FIRST BOOK,

Wherein are shewed MINE-WORKS, from whence they have their Existence, Natures and Properties: divided into the ensuing Chapters.
CHAP. I.•f the Aetherial liquor of Metals, or of the me∣tal Ferch.
GOd hath created things under ground as well as the things above ground: By the things under ground, I understand Metalls, Mi∣nerals, and into whom there is implanted also a fertiltie to their seed, without which the seed could neither grow nor in∣•ase. Seed which is barren, hath not that fertiltie: by •ich it is collected, that there is some distinctnesse be∣twixt
Page 2
seed and fertility, If we will enquire narrowly wha• fertility is, the best and surest way is, to consider life an• death of creatures, how they hold together; for death i• barren, but a living life is fertil, because it stirreth and mo∣veth.

It is seen by all the works that are undertaken about me¦tals, that there is nothing so volatile as metal is, and so no¦thing stirs and moveth more subtilly than it; but this stir¦ing and moving I will call here the Ferch of metals, by reason of its continual proceeding, and uncessant moving and because the same is not visible in metals, and doth i• in a twofold way, therefore I will let the old word stand and call its stirring a Lubricum, and its Ferch a Volatile; fo• with the vertue and power of both these, it performeth a• that, what it needs for the perfection, puritie and fixation o• its work.

Seeing Ferch is a perpetual living and forthgoing thing one might admire and say, of what condition is metal the• which we behold with our eyes, and feele with our hands which being thus hard and coagulated, whether the same b• alive or dead; and whether the life or Ferch in meta• may be destroyed, (which is impossible) what is the cond•¦tion of it, or how comes i• so to passe? I answer, that a me¦tal may be alive when it resteth, as well as when it groweth or stirreth; and here a distinction must be made again be¦twixt the death of metals, and their rest and quietnesse• For death toucheth only the bodies; when they perish; b• the life it self, or Ferch cannot perish or cease: therefore 〈◊〉 a metalline body be extant, then is it at hand visibly tw• manner of wayes. The one is in liquido, and is discerne• in its moving too and fro, and if it be forced by a strang• dangerous heat; then it turns to a volatility, and flyeth a¦way. The other way is, when it is at hand in coagulat• wherein it resteth so long, till it be reduced into its liqu•¦dum, and that is done in a twofold way, and lasteth so lon• as the body lasteth, but as soone as the body is destroye• or gone, and is come or entred into a more, either noble•
Page 3
ignoble body, men its Ferch or life is gone also: therefore if you will reserve and keep a body, then take good notice of i•s Ferch or life; for if you once stir it, and hunt it in∣discreetly, you do it with the losse o• d•minu•ion of the bo∣dy, wherein it is, for that life never goeth away empty, but still carrieth along one life or Ferch after the other, carrying it away so long, that at the last it leaveth none. But what the condition is of the moving and quietnesse of that life, and how Nature bringeth it to a rest, must be ex∣actly considered. For an accurate knowledge demonstra∣teth, that there is a diff•rence betwixt the life of the seed and of the body; for deale with the seed which way you will, you cannot bring it to a volatilitie, because it is against its kind; and so the body also is of the same condition; but the Ferch alone may be brought to it. For if you provide food for the Ferch, then you strengthen its whole work, even as a mother doth her child, which she feedeth and che∣risheth well, and bringeth the same the better to its rest; so •s it also with the Ferch. Therefore all such which gaze and view only the seed and body, and know not the funda∣mentals about the Ferch, lose the body, because they ob∣•erve not Natures progresse and proceedings, putting the •art before the horse, or the formost they put hindmost. This rest and sleep of the Ferch serveth for that use, because •t preserveth the body from destruction, or co••umption be∣•ng once come into its perfection. For as long as it awak∣eth, so long it consumeth, but when it is at rest, then it •andeth close in a lastingnesse, and when it hath nothing •o feed upon, then it corrodeth and seizeth on its own bo∣•ie, consuming it quite, at last it stirreth •nd moveth to a∣•other place. Hence is it that treasures, or pag•ment, which •e buryed, awaken at last, consume their own bodyes, re∣•cing them to dust, so that nothing of them remaines but ther a meere stone or flux, as in many places is to bee •n.

Page 4
CHAP. II. Of the seed of Metals.
ALl those Authors which have written about the me∣taline seed, agree in that, when they say sulphur is the masculine seed of metals, and Mercurie is the foeminine seed; which saying must be taken in its genuine sense; for common Sulphur and common Mercury are not meant thereby. For the visible Mercury of Metals is a body it self out of bodies, and so it cannot be a seed: and being cold, its coldnesse per se cannot be a seed, and the Sulphur of metals being a food, how can it be a seed? Yea, a seed consummeth sulphur, how can one seed destroy the other? if so, what body should it produce? It is therefore an error, if that should be taken in the common sense: if the Mercu∣rie of bodies is in a work, and hath taken food, then all the sex Mercuries protrude one body, as the one of the sex is in its predominancy, so the body riseth.

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

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

Therefore every body hath its perfect seed, hence the trasmutation hath its ground in the ascention and descenti••
Page 5
of metals, which otherwise could not be, if they were not homogeneal in their seed. For if any man saith, that sil∣ver is not gold, clowns beleeve that also, because they have not fundamental knowledge of the seed, how it is to go out of one body into the other, or else it wants its fertilitie, nei∣ther can it be naturally without a body, wherein it reste•h. There belong seven distinct parts to an unformal body of metals, to bring it by nourishment into a forme, viz. 1. An earth. 2. A stone. 3. An earthash. 4. Earthly streams. 5. glasse or subterraneal metal. 6. The subterranean tinc∣ture. 7. The subterranean fuligo or seed, (fume) All these are the materials of the body; and as earth is mans matter, out of which God made him, unto which he must returne again: so all other bodyes also at last return to earth, that Myner which is judicious and knowing herein, him I judge to deserve the name of a Miner. For there are but few of them which are rightly informed herein, or hath any funda∣mental knowledge of it, though they are dayly imployed about it: though some might say, they could not but bee knowing in their profession, yet it is not so really; if so, what right use can they make of them? They put wrong names upon them, are ignorant of their utility, and this is the reason why they many times run them waste upon heaps, where after some time they turne to goodnesse, and the longer they lye there, the better they are: this instru∣ction deserves no hatred, but rather a gratefull aknowledg∣ment.

Why should Philosophers be beleeved to know any •hing? But where is it written, that men should seeke & find mercury of the body in a subterranean fume, stone, glasse, •ut in their books? Where are learned artificial finings in∣•liginations, incinerations, nutritions but from them? The •ed of metals as it is perfect, so is its Ferch, or life invisible. Where do those men stay, which will work according to na∣•re, and know none of these, neither do they know where 〈◊〉 get it: yet fall upon Artists, exclaiming upon them to be •se, & all such as are imployed in their ways: but we see and
Page 6
hear how ignorance runs on. It is impossible to get a bo∣dy without seed, it were as much as to say, a seed is with∣out fertility. Therefore peruse it exactly in its dissolution, the reduction of it will afford its body: work cheer∣fully.

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

CHAP. III. Of the Metalline Nutriment.
ALthough it belongeth not to this place, how minera∣lia fossilia are made under ground, however I will give a hint of it, how nature maketh them out of subterranean moist liquors and Myne-crescencies, which afterward serve to be a food to metals; not such liquors which are deco∣cted above ground; therefore if you should adde here a∣bove ground, decocted ones to metals, undissolved in thei•
Page 7
corporeal form, your work would be in vain: and where there are such mineralia fossilia there are Myne-works also if not with it, yet are they not farre off, as is seen in many Mynes. As in Hungarie are digged the fairest and best sul∣phur-alloms and Mineral or Myne Victriol. And about Harcynta are digged salt Victriol. About Goslar, Mansfeld, Zellerfeld, and at Etshland in Helvetia is digged Mine-salt, and at Hall there is great store of it, where there is found also very curious sulphur. But you must note, that these mi∣nerals are not used thus grossly, but are prepared first, which is a curious work to bring a mineral thus high by sublim∣ing into flores, which are halfe metalline, especially if made with metal, the metal being reduced into a mineral, from that the flowers are made: thus you see natures forwardnesse, and how she is reducible to her first water, sulphur and salt. Many make these flowers without metal, which are not so good though, as the former way. For an oleum made of vitriol or copper, and is distilled, is more eff•ctual, yea a thousand times more pretious in its operation, than that is, which is made of common vitriol, whom nature hath not yet exalted. Its true the Hungarian Vitriol in its efficacie •nd vertue is found wonderfull and sufficient enough, be∣cause Nature hath graduated it to a greater siccitie, and •rought it to a ripenesse more than others were, and is more •xcellent than the rest. By this preparation they can make •se of the minerals, strengthen and encrease their pleasure •hereby. If any thing is to be made, meet for metalls, then it •ust be done out of metals, with metals, and through or by •etals, which is the real & only manual whereby may be hit •he hardness of the mineral flowers, always take from them, 〈◊〉 adde nothing to them; this is the Art, which asketh great •ondering & deep meditation. Thus you must learn to go to •ork, for these flowers are found often closely compacted, •hich Myners very seldome know, especially in Hungarie•nd Wallachia, they are as faire as ever any red glowing oar •ay be, they are of a crystaline transparent rednesse, are •od gold and silver according as they are ting'd, this is a
Page 8
rare knowledge, an art worthy the best consideration, which is to make glasse of a hardnesse, from thence it is, that the subterranean glasses make up the metall, thereby they come to their forme.

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

Page 9
CHAP. IV. Of the metaline shop, Officina metalorum.
ALl natural works have their special convenient places in which they work; where there is any such place or shop, in which some glorious and precious thing is made, and sometimes though the instrument be very horrid and monstrous, and its matter unknowne, yet they are extant in that officine.

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

Again, the things made so hard, and fixt cannot be part∣ed, as may be seen by gold, how firm and fixt is it in the fire? the cause whereof is the subterranean heat and cold which it imparteth unto metals, and makes them firm thereby, for it is a stony firmament of the earth, and giving to metals their stony power, it groweth hollow and spon∣gie, full of pores, which at last are fill'd up with metals, e∣ven as Bees do fill their hives with hony, and in the end 〈◊〉 parts and is carryed away in the slick or (Scobes.) For the Earth-stone is not consumed under ground, because it is a sediment not suffering any thing to come in or out. Hence •s that difference betwixt the Earth-stone and the terresti∣al-firmamental stone, which is one of the mineral-works. Let no man gainsay that a stone should have together both
Page 10
heat and cold at once, to afford the one now, and then to hide the other, for when it worketh the highest metals, it hideth its heat, and when it worketh upon inferior me∣tals, then it hideth its coldnesse, and so it helpeth every way, this is its tract and instrument, heat and cold of the subterranean fir• stone.

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

The instrument she useth hereunto I should make men∣tion of it here, but wave it at this time, and will do it in a∣nother place, where you may seek for, and take notice of it. Those which think themselves to be the wisest doe say, that it is a vanitie to observe mathematically the stars a∣bove, and to order any work after seaso•able dayes and houres, it is something said, but not so well grounded. But this is most certaine, that if you work according to com∣mon course, otherwise than we do, following onely your own fancies, then is you• labour in vaine. There is a diffe∣rence to be made betwixt the upper stars, and the metallin stars, which shine and have their influence into the bodies. Touching the stars above, they in their light and motion have a singular in••uence; and the stars below have their influence also upon their metals, thus each heaven hath its peculiar course and instrument, where the stars situation may be apprehended. An opacum corpus stellatum compact astrall bodie, differs in its condition from a corpus luci∣dum, if you intend to learn here something, then you must be industrious and grudge no paines, it would require
Page 11
a huge volume, if I should describe particularly the whole •ircumference of subterranean Mine-works: it would not •uffice to nominate the things only, but must demonstrate also, that all that, which I attribute to them, to be true, I say 〈◊〉 would aske a great deale of writing, to dispose the brains of misconceited men to a belief: what should I say of such materials, on whom I could not impose fitting names, though I k•ew them, for who is that man which hath done learning 〈◊〉 our Schoole? Here I must needs speak as belonging properly to this place, that no volume in this world can be written, in which could be set down all and every particular manual, as Laborators sometimes might aske; therefore an Artist having given him some hints of things, must endea∣vour to order his work, and manage the same ju•iciously, must put his hands to the work, and get knowledge by his own practice. I direct such men in their work to Natures process under ground, let them search there, and take an honest Myner along to shew him her instruments, and mat∣ters (for prating, lying and ignorance availeth here no∣thing.) Every one wisheth •o get riches, but the means •or the getting of them are not respondent: if I were the best •imner, & could set forth in colours the form of any instru∣ment, then men would understand it; it would help in this case, they would see it, and feele it with their hands, and undertake the work, if all were set down. I know what, & how much ought to be put in a book, I put things fitting in, and did it faithfully.

CHAP, V. Of Egression and Ingression of Metals.
THe work of metals evidenceth a perpetual going in, and coming out; for hereby the Egression is under∣stood not only the Egression of the whole work, that in
Page 12
some place a whole metaline tract comes into decay, when it wants food to be nourished any further, & hath devoured all its bodies, but also a partial egression; for still the one seeketh he other, and follows at the heel. This we see by the mercury of metals, being poured forth, it is scattered into thousands of little quick corns, all of them return to their body; in the same condition is volatile & Lubricum; & the Ferch also goeth forth in small bits, at last it joyneth in a body somewhere, even as Bees met together: it recei∣veth no more than it hath need, the overplus swarmeth to another Myne-officine, which parting and distributing, af∣fords many and several Mine-works, according to the dispo∣sition of the officine and nourishment, and according as it is infringed in its work in the egression; the Ferch and the seed go on in their volatilitie, & if they had wings, that Vo∣latile is so thin, that it can hardly be discerned, yet is it fo∣liated like a heap of atoms; thus subtilly it flyeth away, & the Ferch must still have its seed, the seed its body, and that its thin atoms. My meaning is not, that its egression is from or out of the earth into the ayre, to fly about there and then to come into ground again; which is not so, nor can it be, because its natural work is not in the ayre, un∣lesse men bring it forth purposely, then is it of another con∣dition; of that egression I do not speak here, because it is done by day; but this goeth through the earth. Which stands in the furnace, not apprehensive or visible to us, and runs through clefts and passages; For if the earth giveth way to the ingression and egression, even as the water doth to fishes, and the ayre to birds, as long as metals come to their stone-firmament, which stone firmamet differs from the earth-firmament, when it meets with that, it goeth a∣bout, looking out for another passage, like as water that floweth about a stone and not through it, yet it stayeth in its own stone, and receiveth strength of it, & turnes there to a body: and as it goeth in its egression from one meta∣line firmament or stone-firmament to another, if thorow eaten or soaked, be it at what distance it will, and atract∣eth
Page 13
the Lubicrum, even as a bird draws its feet up to its body in its flight; for if they touch any where, then they loose somewhat of the body, and the Lubricum in its in∣gression suffers it to come again to a strength of operation: for when both are joyned, then the metal increaseth, and attracteth its food in a wonderfull way and nourisheth it selfe; and it is to be admired, that in this ingression, when that Lubricum comes more and more to its officine, how it increaseth and strengtheneth it selfe so long, that at last the work is made firme in the officine. This strengthening can not be learned to be any other, than the metaline mercurie doth make it, for in the first place it turns it there into a liquidum, where afterward it receiveth all, doth coa∣gulate and congele, according as the bodyes are either mas∣culine or foeminine, at last it is brought to a solid fixed bo∣dy of Sol. This ingression makes that subterranean place •oble and fruitfull, and is singular, when it hath an ascending oar in work, that ayre is very wholsome, and if the ayre above with melting be not infected with arsenick fumes, then it affords a saluber ayre to dwell in.

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

Page 14
CHAP. VI. Of the dissolution and reduction of metals.
It is apparent, that natural heat is the cause of the fluid∣ness of metals dissolution, because the seed of metals in it selfe is very hot, and the fluide matter of metals is ho• also, as being oliginous, and its heat increaseth, when i• comes to its officine, or shop, because that also being ho• encreaseth the heat the more, hence it is why it is hot i• the work, and hath need of it, for at first it would bring no more into its body, unlesse it were soluble and soft, i• bringeth nothing into it, unlesse it be passed through these three heats, and fixed by them: then examine it, and adde another fluid thing to it, which did not passe through the three heats: see whether the metal will receive it, or no• Secondly they must be dissolved that they may be cleansed; the condition of liquid things is to produce to the outside things fitting the work it hath in hand. This solution i• distinct from other artificial dissolutions, where the body is only melted, as by the Melter when he seperateth the ex∣crements from it; for n•aure doth not melt the earth as men do, bu• as corne groweth above ground, so she leaveth corne and husks together; there is a great difference be∣twixt our melting and the dissolving of Nature; if we could observe that distinction in our dissolutions and meltings, we should not be at so great losses and dammages as we are: I must needs mention about aurum potabile, how men do bu∣sie themselves about it, as many heads, as many wayes they chuse to the making of it. Some take that wh•ch is not yet separated from the metal containing yet the cinders o• excrements, or worse things. They take corrosive waters, acetum aquavitae, and the like; pray tell me, what doth Na∣ture take, when she is about the dissolving of a congealed
Page 15
water? She takes none of these things, only maketh use of •heat. You must do •he ••k•, if you will take a metalline •ody, which Nature hath perfected, and through melting •nd fining is come to us, if you will dissolve and reduce it 〈◊〉 its first matter, then rou•e the Ferch, thus you may make •y metalline body potable, being made pure and super∣•e, then its excrements are gone, made not with additi∣•nals of corrosive things: the fluxing of such matters rather •ake the metals harder: if a body shall be fixed, we fix 〈◊〉 from whithout, which Nature doth not, for she fixeth the •ed, then the flour setteth and turns to such a fixation, •hat the dissolving above ground cannot master it. A wa∣•er, which congealeth, hath at first a little crust, going on 〈◊〉 it till it be quite congealed, but here it congealeth from •ithin to the outside, hence you may guesse at that glori∣•us foundation of projection, on mercurie of the body, ma∣•ing a natural stratum super stratum, thus are the metals •yned, according to which the artificial work is ordered: •e have a hint given how mercurie of metalls is clipt and •layed, and its lubicrum is catched. Conceive not of this •xation, to be as when iron is hardened to steele, and then •duced to a softnesse as Tin is of; this is called only a •ose hardnesse, which keeps the body in a malleablenesse, ••d keeps it so close together, that the fire above ground •nnot hurt it, all hardnesse above ground may be mollified 〈◊〉 fire, but not the other; because it holdeth all fiery tryals: •herefore as the hardnesse made above ground hardneth •odies in the water, so on the other side, the water, which 〈◊〉 in metalline bodyes must be taken out, then it congea∣•th. The subterranean ayre hardneth the earth, earth •emaineth earth, and turns not to stone, and the same •eeps the water from running together, or congealing: •eeping it from turning to pearls and pretious stones, and •ch may be made of that water. To get the internal fire •ut of metals, though it be most high skill, however it is •aseable, and found in its place, where I write of the like, 〈◊〉 a more ample manner. I give a hint of it in this
Page 16
places, as Myners ought to do, of whose expressions I bor¦row now: The rest which wholly extracteth this fire, whic• lyeth betwixt the project, leaving nothing behind, that i• where the Lubricum and Volatile is together, leaveth it produceth it, and excerneth it. The Mansfieldian slat• makes it appeare, that its Volatile is gone, and its Lubri¦cum also, where its impurity is yet betwixt the project, an• is not a faire pure work, but a compound one.

CHAP. VII. Of the ascension and descension of metals.
THis new kind or manner of speaking and writing of me¦tals is caused by experience, for the first perpetua• ingression of the Ferch encreaseth and strengtheneth at firs• in the officina and Matrix, the Mercurie of bodies, bringin• it on to its perfect and full strength; being made wholly effectual and potent, then it begins by degrees to cloth i• selfe with a body, at first he attracteth and receiveth th• meanest, which he puts off again in the first place, which i• done the easier; for no body amongst them all is soone• put off. For the body of Saturne is so thin, that it ap∣peareth to the eye like as a faire body doth through lawn• or tiffenie; its spirituality appeareth through its body; it• spiritual body is the metal of Mercurie, or as I should ra∣ther call it, its proper, near, and special bodye, which work giveth a manuduction unto many other faire works; for i• maketh a garment for Saturne out of the subtilest earth, af∣ter he riseth higher, puts a harder and better garment o• him, which is not so easily put off as that of Saturne, or a• least not with so small a work, which is caused by the work of the Mercurie of bodies. For the Mercurie of bodies by reason of its fluidnesse is the hottest, as he maketh it appea• in Saturns ascension, putting a cinereal body on him ou•
Page 17
of earth, hence is it why Saturn is so full of cinders incli∣•ing to a britleness of ashes, and begins to sound by reason •f the metal, though it be not very firm, however yet it 〈◊〉 at the next place for incorporation: its sound is more •eaf, is further off from iron, and nearer unto mercury by •eason of heat. Observe now at the ascending of this metal, 〈◊〉 lyeth near the ashes, cleansed by the Saturnal water, but •bove ground it turns not to be glass out of the ashes, out •f salt or earth-water, or Saturnal-water, or out of sand •r stone. But what is that pure subterranean Earth-glass, •hich if it soundeth breaketh not: it is a matter which Na∣•ure thrusteth upon a heap together, which if you touch, 〈◊〉 soundeth, and is very clear, of a great compactness, •d very firm, in this work it doth mingle with ashes and •lt water, and turns to a glass of earth, or to a dark glassey •rm iron. Nay tell me, if a metal or Earth-colour, yea a •ood sound metal be dissolved to a colour, and is brought •to a glass, doth it not look of a copper-colour? yes truly. •herefore iron may soon be turned into another thing, •hich is done naturally, where such metalline iron colour reduced in Hungaria into a Lixivium, and is turned into very good copper, however it retaineth the glassiness, •ough the colour hath exicated it somewhat through the •ercurie of bodies: for the liquidness it hath still, and is obilitated further to a malleablenesse and fixation, there∣•re take notice of this tincturing matter, which you finde •epared by this body in this afficina, it reduceth the iron 〈◊〉 copper with abundance of lucre.

Put these colours away and behold, how the mercury of •odies is passed through many white bodies, and hath still fair white fuligo, and that very fixed, how finely is it clad it, and maketh a fair and pure body of Luna, into which 〈◊〉 clads himself so strongly that it can not be taken from •ence by burning, because it passed seven times thorough •e greatest subterranean heat, which destroyeth corrupti∣•e bodies, unless they be closely and compactedly incor∣•rated to the mercury of bodies; nothing goeth beyond
Page 18
that fire, neither of the upper, ne•her, or middle-fires. Therefore behold how neatly Nature worke•h and riseth calcining the whole body of Luna, which •alx is no hin• else but the body of Sol, its tinctu•e and tinging quality i• taketh from the perfection and depth, which is in the fire and can afford it, that colour must keep so long till i• descendeth again: there is nothing which can master ••i• fire; the descending may soon be perceived by this asc•n¦ding, and the difference of it is this, at the ascending i• get¦eth the tincture first, before it gets the body, but here i• looseth it sooner: and this is the reason why descending oares are more perf•ct, then the ascending ones.

CHAP, VIII. Of respiring Metall, or of Quick oar.
BEcause with and by Myne-works an obstruction 〈◊〉 made upon Nature, which is the cause that several m•¦tals are gotten, and distinctions put on them, that damage and losses might be the better avoided in the working 〈◊〉 them. For as each received a particular name and proper• in or at the work, so in the digging of them, several man•¦als are invented for the finding of them, and hereunto 〈◊〉 was made of the Rod. To distinguish metals by colours a curious skill, as Red gold glass, Myne green, black oa• however their working is not so exactly known that wa• That I may loose nothing in or at their melting, I use t• means; first, I must certainly know the property of t• oar, before it be beaten our, whilst it is yet under grou• in its breathing: for oars and metals breath onely und• ground, though they breath in some sort above, y• the same breathing is very weak, not going far ho• the body; and the rod also sticks onely upon the upp• metals, which is the greatest advantage we have: for 〈◊〉
Page 19
causeth metals to breath into a flame, and the fire-crates and pit-diggers cause onely a volatility and closing com∣pactness, where a threefold damage ensueth. First, there flieth away, not only much of the metal, but that also w••ch •taieth turns to be volatile, and in the several meltings of it, •lwayes something goeth amiss. Secondly, the remainder of it groweth unmalleable, which hardly can be helped. Thirdly, elevated minerals are burnt to a compactness, which if not done, would prove very advantagio•s in the After-work, and chiefly they would be very useful in Me∣•icina, being naturally prepared thereunto, which is the rea∣•on why many in their After-workings labour in vain, taking •ther improper minerals thereunto. For that fossile Vitri∣•lum at Goslar, where neither silver nor l•ad groweth in •hat Mineral, where it is prepared highly, copper may be made of it without any other addition: that Vitriol affor∣•eth an oyle also, which perfectly cureth the Gout: if all •hese good qualities should be burnt away with the silver, •ere it not great damage? Therefore I take such a metal •hich attracteth breath, and when the unbreathing or •dhalation is stronger, then is it a living metal, because a •ively quality is in it: for breathing things are alive, and •reathing is compared unto life, such metal like a breath, •roveth as a child from ten years to ten years, even so this •etal groweth, till it come to its perfect state and body, af∣•erward it getteth another name, and consequently •here must needs be observed a great difference in their •orking, and are asunder as much as a live thing differs •om a dead one, which ought to be taken into considera∣•ion, because this distinctness being observed, affords a neat •nd pure work. Hither belong all mixt oars, which at se∣•arating are parted asunder and not before, (as the usual •ustome is.) As in Hungarie there is had every where gold-•ilver (that is, in it there is gold) which in its colour and •onderosity is pure, hath lost nothing, and is still in its wor∣•ing qualitie, and if it had not been interrup•ed, and digged •p unseasonably, then that silver would have been turned
Page 20
to pure gold; that silver may easily be brought to a solar perfection, and in it self is it better to be used for paga∣ment, and is of better use for cementation. In like manner the copper at Mansfeld is good for it, and proveth much better in the work, than other copper, for it wanted but a little, it had been burnt quite into silver. The best quali∣ty of such copper is that they are of a deep colour; they have not lost that, as usually electrum's do. But this is to be noted, such oares are of that quality, that the bigger part of the body hideth the lesser part in melting, it is not seen, nor felt, except at the washing and parting, there it is seen: whilst it is yet among the earth, it is a breathing oar, and is of such a compound, as you heard: you may con∣fide in it without a proof, though the cake of it be of silver colour or of a copper colour, This is it apparent, how Na∣ture augmenteth a metalin body, protruding it upward from below, and that which is neathermost, is thrusted toward that which is uppermost, in a marvellous subtile way: for dead bodies bring still more to it, making it heavier in the mercury, then joyneth the nourishment also, which are the prepared minerals, affording their tincture, like good food, which breeds good blood: hence flores mineralium have their existence: if you cannot learn their off-spring in tha• way, there is no other nor better way for it. For this is th• true tincture, and not that mouldy or grosse album or rube•¦um so called, where such highly mingl'd oares or transpa¦rent Veins break, they may be cryed up for an Electrum• but improperly called so: for the colours glitters so purel• therein one among another, like in a Chrysolithe or traspa¦rent Amber.

Page 21
CHAP. IX. Of expiring metal, or of dead metal.
MEtals have their set time as well as all other crea∣tures, they decay and dye when their appointed •ime comes. For when Nature hath brought the metalline •ody unto Sol, then by reason it wanteth nourishment, •nd is starving, then it comes down, gets a stronger exhal∣•ing, and the attractive breathing turns to an expiration, & •erial breathing brings it to the fires-breath. If the expira∣•ation groweth stronger in a metal than its adspiration is, •hen it descendeth by degrees, and decayeth, and then is •t called a dead oar or metal; for still one external body or •ther departeth from it, at last in one place or other it •aketh a totall egression with its breath, life and seed. This •reathing is known by the particular Rod of each; this al∣•o asketh a particular place and work, because great gain 〈◊〉 afforded both by this and by the living one. Consider •t well, a metal, which descendeth from its perfection, into •nother body, it is like when a man loseth his lively co∣•our, and at last his body, that is its ponderositie, and •hen the gold turns, not to a goldish silver, but to an Ele∣•rum that is, to Sol, which hath lost its tincture. This is great piece of proof, to discern such silver-gold from •rue silver; in its gravity it is found heavier than other •lver, retaining the body, and losing onely its colour, or •ncture.

It is a greater skill to restore a tincture to a dead and de∣•ayed colour, and to make it fix. At separating it keeps •he quality of Sol. The like condition is red silver in, •hich hath lost its colour, making an incorpo•ation and •nion with copper, so that it quite dyeth in its body. To •et this silver out of the copper, and restore its peculiar •lour, is a great skill, which Melters are ignorant of, be∣longeth
Page 22
meerly to 〈◊〉 Chymick Ar• and its Laboratorie. How many such Electrums are bought for silver and copper? the Buye•s thereof have great gain in it. Of the same and the like condition are other metals of▪ Is it not so, all iron in Hungarie is brittle, what is the rea•on? because copper is in it: if •hat be gotten ou• in that artificial manner, as it ought, that iron proves so hard, that no steel is compara∣ble to it? Out of that iron are made Turkish swords, (sa∣bels) mayles, which no weapen or bullet can enter or break; •he•e mayles also are not very heavy.

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

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

CHAP. X. Of pure or fine Metall.
WHen a Metal, be it in the ascension or descension, is i• its seven System's or constitution, then it rest••h o• en•u•••h, till it comes into another body. If you mee• with such oar, it yields the purest metal, that may be ha•
Page 23
〈◊〉 the world: our Mel•e•s call this Super-fine. But our •uper-fining, which hitherto was in u••, is an impure work 〈◊〉 regard of this: for in the clarifying, if it misseth but the •ast grain, then is it not yet right. Such metals, as may •asily be conceived, is pure good and malleable, loseth •othing in any work whatsoever: though all metals may be •ade super-fine, yet none can be made finer than gold is, •hich no element is able to touch, to take any thing from 〈◊〉, or to turn it to a Glimmer (Spolium) or cats silver, of 〈◊〉 glittering quality.

Silver at Marychurch in Lorrayne is more fine then others. •uper-fine is called that, when a metal is pure and rid of •s excrements or dross, which may easily be taken off, and •indereth it not in its fining. In silver Myne-works there •re often found such natural proofs of pure and fine oar, •hat it might speedily be digged and broken, though it •ust be melted again by reason of its Spolium, or by reason •f strange colours and flowers it hath robbed, yet it easily •ay be performed, which serveth afterward for an instructi∣•n, how Mineral-colours must be obtained, as Azur, •hrysocolle, though they stand in the Mineral-glass: such co∣•ours love to be in such pure oar, bu• are not so soon inocu∣•ted, unless it be in the Sude or coction, in which the metal 〈◊〉 very pure, and yields more naturally the mercury of the •ody, be it in the ascension or descension, assumeth then •nother body. Hence is it apparent, how the same ought •o be proceeded within the artificial After-work, out of •ne body into another, how the body, in which it is, and •om which it must be had, ought to be prepared, namely, •t must be made pure and Super-fine. It appeareth in the •talian Gold, especially in that of Wallachia, in which it is •ost pure; how that mercury of metals puts off his body, & the mercury of the body come from the mercury of the •etal, puts the gold together into a close body and regu∣•s, and it is seen in the gilding, how firmly and closely 〈◊〉 stick•th, wanteth but a small matter of an augmenting •uality, its Spolium is onely obstructive thereunto: it is of
Page 16
〈1 page duplicate〉
Page 17
〈1 page duplicate〉
Page 18
〈1 page duplicate〉
Page 19
〈1 page duplicate〉
Page 20
〈1 page duplicate〉
Page 21
〈1 page duplicate〉
Page 22
〈1 page duplicate〉
Page 23
〈1 page duplicate〉
Page 24
a transmuting and elevating quality, if the other body b• awakened also: for a body which is between awaking an• sleeping effecteth nothing, it must be awakened w•olly if at the on boiling of a metal, as of that Italian gold, b• but the least impurity, that is, a heterogeneal p•••, it coul• not be brought to a compactnesse, which is seen at gi•ding Therefore you must give an exact attention to learn to un¦derstand what the prima materia of metalline bodies is, an• how their Elevation is either obstructed or augmented how homogeneal things are brought to a body. It is ap¦parent in the mercury of metals, how close and compact i• stands together in the flux, which flux cannot be take• from it: purity is the reason or cause of that compactnesse being there is no other metal mixed with it: assoon as any metalline body joyneth with it, then is it disjoyned, be i• what metal or body it will. Hence it doth appear, how metals are brought to rest from their labour, namely, if the• be first pure; for into pure matter may be brought what i• intended for it; which appeareth in the mercury of me¦tals, its purity is the cause why it doth not appear to th• eye, but onely in its flux or hardnesse. The mercury o• metals is the flux of the mercurie of bodies, that is, whe• water comes to it, or the mercury of metally bodies is com• into the water instead of the air, which otherwise is in th• water: take it into consideration, what manner of skill i• required to get winde or air out of the water, and to brin• another mercury into that place, if you get the air, which i• in the earth, out of that earth, and in its lieu you get in th• mercury of metalline bodies, then you have a Mercury i•Coagulato; endeavour now how you may coagulate it, bu• not in the ordinary, common, and vulgarly known way Bring still another mercury of bodies instead of the Marin• water into that water, then you have a fair pearl, take tha• same mercury of bodies, reduce it to an earth, which mu• be pure, instead of the air then you have a pure jewel a• pure as may be had from that, earth is in its colour, or yo• may put one to it, which you please, it is a thing feasabl•
Page 25
These and the like pieces are afforded by purity, all which •e work of nature is a leader unto. (Men that cast so ma∣•y foul aspersions upon Philosophers are unworthy and not 〈◊〉 be regarded) nor credited, what they can foame against •eir rare and glorious inventions about the three princi∣•es, from whence all these things have their Original, •ake trials of it, you will affirm to be true, what I have •id.

CHAP. XI. Of impure Metal.
THere is found store of metalline ores, but few of them are pure, and few there are that break or grow one by the other; therefore these must be separated and spoken of apart: The great work & expences which their clean∣si•g requireth from their grossenesse let Melters speak of: •eparating hath been invented, at which some good things of the oars do stay, the rest flieth away, and their fining is useful, especially when oars or metals are in their ascension, though it be chargeable. But to find Electrums, and bring them to good by seperating, differs from the former fining, and requireth a singular way of melting. Cunning and subtile Artists may pretend to get silver out of iron, (I be∣lieve they may, if there be any in it) as they do in Sweed∣land. Osemund alwayes containeth silver, which is onely off driven, and calcine away the iron, and thus they cheat people: can they do the like with the iron which breaks in Styria? no such matter. Therefore take heed of such cheaters, and take notice that nature loveth to keep her own wayes orderly, and keeps together two and sometimes three sorts of oars in their ascension and descension, where∣by she intimateth a way unto the After-work; but men in their fancy think upon other means, though to no purpose.
Page 26
View all the Mines which are in Europe, you will finde no other oars but impure ones, that is, a mixture of them, for their nature maketh them, as much as I ever could learn; if you can shew me the contrary, I will assent unto thee, And this is the second Argument, that metals are in their as∣cension and descension unto perfectnesse: if each had its peculiar work and instrument, then men needed not to take so much pains in melting, to separate them. For it is a dif∣ficult work to joyn weeds and stones, because these are he∣terogeneal, and are of differing ma•ters: but the other joyning soon together, require special w•rking to be sepa∣rated; therefore view exactly the bodies two manner of wayes, which is no small instruction. First, in what man∣ner you separate the ashes from the fumes or food, this mi∣nisters already a twofold separating of metal, the earth from the tincture, there you have a twofold separating, and so forth. Secondly, take notice of the Flux, to drive the cold fire with the warm, and the warm with the cold, the• you will be able to separate the bodies from Mercuries, then you have already separated the metals without losse and damage, use thy self exactly to it, and be careful in ob∣serving their names, not regarding the Miners expressions and terms, for the names they give to oars are false: for those, which build and dig after clefts and passages, have their names of their bodily matters after the sorts of the minerals, and are distinct therein. But you must call them after the sorts of the seven bodies, and learn to prepare them; this work is of greater utility. Men are at great expences to get corrosive waters, to get asunder these me∣tals, they do it also by way of melting and casting; but such waters add great poison to the work; it is a better way to do it with Lixiviums or sharp waters, which are not so poisonous, learn their preparation. There is another kind of impure oar, of which I made mention here and there, which contain Myne-slacks, you may read of in the Chapter of the Cinders, but there is a difference betwixt the cinder and the slack, for slack are more corny, yet that also turns at
Page 27
last to cinders. These slacks are the cause of the cold fire, 〈◊〉 cenders cause the warm fire, or the uredines metallorum:•se cold slacks are hardly got •• off •rom the metal, be∣•se they come from the cold flux fi•e of mercuries alti∣•e: for as the cinder comes from bodies; so are these •cks of mercury; it is seen, when you will have slacks of •er matters then usually they belong thereunto; then the •rcury of bodies is rouzed, which by the work is no∣•ing else but a closure and stream; for if you can conve∣•ntly get away the slacks, then you may perform and ac∣•mplish something else with the fire of mercurie, and it is either usual not artificial to deal much in cold fire: some •iners call it Mispuckel, Nodus aeris, that Latine name they •t upon: it is true, it is very hard knit together, it is dif∣•ult to dig it, and to make its oar to good, and Antimony so is hardly gotten from other metals (except from Sol) •ithout damage: however, with advantage it may be done •riously, onely you must be expert in Antimonie's quali∣•es. For they belong together and are joyned, as tin and •ad, Wismuth or Magnesia among or betwixt iron and cop∣•er. This is a good direction, and is sufficient for such, •ho know what belongs to melting.

CHAP. XII. Of perfect metal.
WHo could tell what gold and silver were, if they were not known in their perfection, for when they are per∣•ect, it appeareth, when they have their colour, their weight▪ •heir malleablenesse, their flux and hardnesse: and this per∣fect metal nature hath produced compactly and purely 〈◊〉•uch perfect, pure, and compact gold is found in Hungary,•n the white marble, which presently may be broken; as •lso silver, copper: the difference betwixt the perfect and
Page 28
pure is, because metals are not pure before they are p•¦fect; and so there may be a perfect oar, which is not pu• which defect is found in many of our metals, which co• to their perfection assoon as in any other Foreign parts, b• in their perfect purity they are defective sometimes. Th• is to be noted by this metal; a body must first be perfe• or brought to its perfection, before it can be sixt; and is of great concernment to know rightly what fixedne• meaneth.

A body which hath its due tincture, weight, and grad•¦ation, yet it hath mixed other obstructive impurities, he• comes the work, and nature begins to copulate these two tincture and gradation brings the metal into a purifying this purifying is fixation: for pure is as much as fix. An• note, that the ground of the first is the body, which is 〈◊〉 secret, into that I must bring the tincture and gradation a• well as I can, and take the tincture from Sol, which is 〈◊〉 thing feasable: then is it an Electrum, which is a wa∣ter; for in water it abideth, then I take its ponderosity fo• it, and bring it into an Oleum or into a Sulphur, the body remaineth still, for in the ascension Mercury lyeth the foun∣dation of the body, as an Embrion, to it comes pondero∣sity, which maketh it formal, then comes Lubricum, after that comes the Volatile with the tincture, and perfecteth all the rest it hath need of to its perfection. Why doth reason play the fool in despising the wayes of nature, not obser∣ving her course? For behold how wonderfully she bring∣eth rednesse into copper, turning it into brasse, but is not fixt, because it was not her intent; it is a meer colour which all other oares easily imbrace, but is not fixt, which colour is easily driven away with wood and coal-fire. There∣fore is it a thing of great concernment to learn rightly to know the bodies; for at dissolutions the property of a pure metal is known, what its tincture, body, salt and ponderosity is, especially if exactly be considered the ana∣tomy of all bodies after the Chymick way, how curiously and properly are they anatomized: we call the immature
Page 29
spirit a spirit of mercury; the perfect tincture we call an •na or Sulphur, the ponderosity is called the salt or bo∣• for the after-work confirmeth the same, that that fixa∣• doth not onely hold in the fire, and all corrosive wa∣• especially that of Saturn, which is a precious one, •e then other aqua forts, but better in the malleablenesse •hout the Quart; it holdeth also in the cement, because •omes out of it. Therefore it is to be admired, why 〈◊〉 talk so strangely of it, when they know nothing of it, •m whence it is, or what the cause of it is! But it is so, 〈◊〉 one hearkeneth to the tale of the other, and know no •re then they have from hear-saying; for they know not •at to say, nor how to help what the work aileth, if out tune and disordered; and if any fix and lasting medi∣•e is to be made, then that metal is best, even as a vegeta∣• which is come to its maturity. This processe must be served, else all labour is in vain. For how can ye destroy •e body of a thing that hath no body, much lesse can you •e the tincture of it, before it comes into the body: a •cture may be gotten from it, but not all the colours of •at tincture: here exactnesse must be used, because it is •e greatest skill to do so. One thing more I must needs •eak of, those that aime meerly with a great and deep •ging at riches should view Gods mysteries every where, they compare the Scripture rightly, will finde an instru∣•ion, that a spiritualty is held forth in an earthly thing: if a •etal be brought out of the earth, and out of its Officina,•ke a man that is set into another life, it abideth and liveth •ithout food, is not dead, but is alive; though it doth not •t, yet it resteth, and may soon be awakened: thus we •ope also, that in the other eternal life, where there is Sab∣•athum & Sabbotho, things will be done in a more glorious •ay. God maketh use of us here for his praise, to make use •f metals in that kinde: it will not be for our misuse and •isgrace, but rather put greater honour upon us, more then •ver we put upon metals.

Page 30
CHAP. XIII. Of imperfect metal.
THe imperfect metal is the wildest among all the re• because it containeth all impuri•ies with a confus• mixture. Usually there is set in a work of many piec• which no man yet knoweth what they are, in which y• finde matters joyned, which are prepared and unprepar• of many bodies. Now if you will reduce that matter a• cleanse its metal, then the unprepared matter must first 〈◊〉 washed away, and regard not the matter so much as the m•¦tal, which is yet tender and young in it, you must not c•¦cine it but another fire belongeth to it This perfecti• consists in nine several pieces, which must be well con•¦dered; each must be handled as it ought; if so be, the m•¦tal shall not suffer any w•ong and damage,

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

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

Thirdly, you must take notice of the flux, that which i• fluid must be fried: for if both fluxes should be opened they would hardly be congealed again. For to dissolv•
Page 31
•ew running Mercury of bodies, which per se are run∣•g, would prove a meer dust and atome.

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

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

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

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

Eighthly, we •ee Limners to mingle their colours with water and oil, and so carry them on, you must •earn a due preparation of the water, to imbibe the colour, which is a metalline water, whereby you corrode with not •estroying the colours, which you intend to have, if you make use of any other water besides this, then all your la∣bour
Page 32
is in vain; cool with oil, then it remaineth pure, a• thus you have much strengthened the Folium.

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

CHAP. XIV. Of the Soap-metal, or Metallum Uredinum.
IF our upper Elements could not make a metal to be ma∣nifest and apparent to us, who would have undertake• to work any metal. The great heat and cold which is un∣der the ground is the cause of the body of metal, according to the pr•dominancy of that heat and cold which is in the body. The deeper the heat or cold is in that body, the fairer is its tincture; this is a true saying, But what this heat or cold is above, and what is attributed to the Planet above, understanding men must know it.

At first when the Ferch goeth forth, and goeth along
Page 33
through the earth with the seed in its firmamental officina,•en it comes forth sometimes, as far as its breathing may •ach before it be infringed and allayed; it still carrieth •me of the purest metal, and the superiour elements af∣•rd their vertue for their joyning: for where the elements •e in a conjunction, there they make a body, and force •mething from the Ferch, then it riseth and falleth, as it •lls, so it lieth still, this is the reason why the corns are so •rangely fashioned, they are either round or oval, and so •me to the metal accordingly, and is found: sometimes falleth into the water, where it was catcht and overtaken, •t most of all it loveth to be in the Uredines or soap, hence •t that name. Soaps are mineral springs, where the metal •eth to lie, these spring from below, and these are found •metimes wholly gilded over, and they cast upward taps of •ch colour. In this Countrey such springs are neer Rivers the foot of Mountains, but in the Almen they are on the •p of the soap as it were upside down, on these sticketh •e Ferch which passeth by it, or the air which forceth it •m it. The whole businesse lieth in the metalline waters they are dissolved in their salts, thus they easily imbrace •e Ferch, or the metal of that Ferch and seed which it ca•¦•th forth, and that goeth for the best Tin which is on the •p, being of an iron shot, which iron is of several different •grees, but here in this place it is not energetical, as being •structed by two parties.

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

Secondly, this Scobes powder or dust is not in its right •cina, because it is not in this subterranean air and element •ere the singular officina of metal is, and in this manner of •dition are almost all the soap-metals in Europe, but in her Countreys where there are none, or very few of these •ther metals, if there be found any of them in the Dam •th of the highest or uppermost metal, then is it another •tter, needs not to be related here, because it serveth not
Page 34
for our work. Such metals are the best, because they li• deepest at the metal; and if you intrench too nigh unt• them with the fire, then they flie away with the Ferch, by reason of their transcendent superfinenesse: therefore whe• this ponderous Ferch and seed is grown very hot in bot• heats of his work, especially in the descension, then is i• mightily strengthened, in the consuming it groweth mor• homogeneal to the upper Mercuries of the earth and its in¦strument, therefore it doth associate thereunto, and obtai¦neth a going again, and this is the ground of ascending an• going upward, besides or without of the officina as much a• is known.

CHAP. XV. Of inhalation or inbreathing.
IT is a curious work to build after-clefts and passages, fo• it seemeth a thing to be credited, that in them the brea•h¦ings have more their going in and out than through th• whole earth besides, but it is not advisable to take suc• fetches about, because there is a neerer way unto it, name¦ly, unto the metals, as if one would goe to the well, and go¦eth all the streams down, through and by all the springs whereas there is a neerer way to goe the foot-path, the sam• condition it hath with the halations and breathings, becaus• the fumes and vapours lie therein, and are obstructive rathe• to the breathing, than helpful. Therefore look not so muc• upon clefts and passages, but rather upon the halations o• breathings, which keep their stroak throughout the earth because the same doth not hinder its course, as men ma• deem. For we must know that the oars do breath onely u•¦der ground, and these breathings are orderly distinguished This is a remarkable thing, that oars breath from belo•
Page 35
where they are, and this is the difference betwixt the hala∣•, vapour, fume, or breath, which goeth oblique, the •fs way, lateral way, or afar off. Therefore here is to be •ken of that inhalation, when it goeth in its own strength, •at it sheweth and signifieth, the fume is sent unto the me∣• from the superiour solar rayes, from thence she may •e what she will, and what she hath need of for her susten∣•ion, that bringeth the nourishment, and driveth all down∣•rd to the metal and the lower planets, but no farther than on the earth, but though the Dam earth per cutem terrae,•re the oar or metal receiveth the inhalation, which ariseth •m the work, maketh use of it: for it is manifest that the •ments cannot reach deep into the ground. Seeing the •ations are invisible, whose being cannot be seen in them, •ans breath can sooner be discerned and seen, than the ha∣•ion may; which may be known by a Rotten, when a me∣• worketh, then it breatheth, which breath it draweth a∣•n, and so forth: then the Sun must come in to help, for the Systeme is at the inhalation, which must be known ar∣•cially, there is the purest earth, from whence man is ta∣•, as some ancient writers do conceive, which earth con∣•eth many hidden vertues in the afterwork of Metals. •is inhalation serveth chiefly for that purpose as you heard, draw, swallow, and take down the food into the body. For 〈◊〉 must not think, that she lets it lie in the body, after she •th brought it in, but it is a Vis retentiva to keep that fast, •ich it drunk in, and to that end she prepareth in that •ole journey from that place where she receiveth or bor∣•weth of the Sun, which driveth down all ponderous things, we see by all such juyces and saps which are driven down∣•rd; in this drawing down it hath this quality, what saps juices it taketh, the same sink down deeper more and •re, and sublimeth them the more highly into its flores∣••t this I call flores, when it cannot sublime any further, •d brings it at last to a garment or body of a metal.

He that knoweth these flowers rightly, he hath learned •mething of nature, and he that knoweth of what they are
Page 36
made, he is come yet further; but such flowers are mad• naturally of mean stuff, which worketh by a threefold fire, among which the inhalations fire is not the meanest, but th• chiefest, because it is the next unto perfection. But thi• breathing is more a fiery aerial heat, than it hath of any fire, because it flameth without any kindling, otherwise i• would combure the nutriment in the officina, she conceal∣eth rather, keepeth things together, and strengthenet• them, it expelleth humidities and vapours; and conse¦quently it causeth those evil vapours, fumes, and breath• which poison the whole earth below, and are the cause o• many dangerous diseases, as it hath been known.

CHAP. XVI. Of exhalations or out-breathings.
SEeing, stirring, and moving, must be continually at th• metalline work as long as the metal attracteth, and e∣specially the in moving or taking into, hence the next in∣halation of the living oar must be stronger, therefore Na∣ture affords so, that because the halations can come no fur∣ther in the metal, because metal is the end of the work un∣der ground, that then the exhalations must draw on, and must turn into the metal, the return of that metals breath∣ing from below into a true natural breathing of metal groweth so strong, that it kindleth, yet without a light o• flame, but gloweth without a flame or light, and purget• that which is to be purged in the work, not onely in th• work in the officina, but in the whole matter, till she hea∣veth and protrudeth the pure atomes of the earth, whic• the Sun gloriously dissolveth again into juyces; for the a¦tomes are the flowers of the terrene-salt, she cannot indur• them, neither are they useful in the earth, but must be dis∣solved again in the upper air; but this exhalation, thoug•
Page 37
•t be alwayes about the metal, yet is it apparent in its Rot∣•en, or Rubedo, what the oar doth, then the breathing seizeth on the Rotten or Rubedo, and kindleth them, then is the metal in its decay or decrease, and is a dead metal, and most of the fire goeth forth, which kindleth this Red, and the •old stayeth by the nether metal, which groweth predomi∣•ant; hence we see what Uredines are able to do, when •hey are predominant in metals, then the cold gets the up∣•er hand, and disgraceth the oar, bringing it as low as lead; •ut if heat get the upper hand, then the metal groweth •igher and higher, and more lively. This is the difference •etwixt the heat of fires, which is called Ʋredines, the •ehicle of that heat is the instrument or matter which af∣•ordeth the place of it. For Uredines are the cause of some∣•hing, but fire destroyeth it, and the uredines may be with∣•ut the fire, and above the fire. The most ancient Philoso∣•hers call it coelestes & infernales vires; for it is apparent in •old, that fire cannot prevail against it, but onely against •he flux of it, and cannot consume it, and the Mercury can∣•ot hurt neither, only he bringeth hardnesse unto it, which 〈◊〉 good, but to what purpose? for he is not turned to any •lver; both these breathings, upper and nether, in and •ut breathing comes all to one, and is not onely its quality •o shew and make known the metal and oar, but passeth •hrough the earth also, to keep them from turning into •ones, to stay and keep them porous one upon another, •nd to make them pure: for it purgeth the earth, as the so∣•r breathing above doth the air, and as the same breathing •bove bringeth and causeth winde, mist, rain, hoar frost, •ow, even so the subterranean breathing causeth vapours •mes, breaths, saps, minerals, soaps, &c. and bringeth forth •old out of their seed. He that understandeth these ne∣•her, upper, and other meteors, he may make all manner of •uick After-works; For Art treadeth into the foot-steps •f Nature.

Page 38
CHAP. XVII. Of corruscation, or of adhalation, or to breathing or glittering.
MIners seeing this breathing ascend by night, like 〈◊〉 flame, they count that only a breathing, and none else which per se is not a true breathing, but only a corruscatio• for it burneth away the excrements, not wholly, only suc• things that are naught and poisonous, purgeth the air from the same stink; for where should the cuticle of the seed get out, if it should not be carried forth, partly by this flame of fire, and partly by the water? For this stink weakeneth the oar mightily, especially it spoils its colour, whereas i• may easily be burned or washed away, before it groweth to such a stink, be it in fossils or liquours. This breathing o• glistering strengtheneth the cenders, it toucheth them no• in a way of heat, but in a way of fire, and is not an up∣boiling, but a burning unto.

Seeing this stuff which this corruscation seizeth on, is found often in a place where no metals are, therefore is i• very deceitful, however commonly and for the most part o• a metalline breath. For note the metal never affords or ca∣steth any flame, neither doth it consume in burning, bu• flieth away and vanisheth, you cannot know which way i• is gone; therefore these exuviae spermatis, or husks of the seed, is a greater infection, and plainer evidence, that there is an oar at hand; because it maketh many glorious thing• apparant, which the fire seizeth on, it must not quite be melted from, its outgoing is a signe that it doth no good by the metals, neither can it stay with it, unless it stick close▪ Here you may observe again, that fire doth not good to me∣tals, but a warmth which doth not come from fire, as a na∣tural
Page 39
heat is in man without fire; for where are the coals which nature useth for oars, yet is it hot? where is there any better blast to make things congeal? A cold without a frost is another matter, as it appeareth in Pearls. I call it Ʋredines, as a warmth without an heat, yea, this heat and frost causeth a food unto fire, it cannot indure it any where about it; therefore if you bring a metal into its heat and cold, then you have already a ground for the Afterwork; you have little learning or skill, if you do not know so much.

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

Such a folium or glitter may be made artificially, but nature sheweth that it may be had from a Volatile; though it be true, that that Volatile may not be had, unlesse in its seed and bodie; yet it is soon extant with the body; for he that knoweth not the condition of the folium, he can neither in the flux nor congelation bring any oar or metal into its true tincture; the condition of this Folium is, that
Page 40
it is as thin as any leaf in the world can be, of these leaves is composed a metalline body.

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

CHAP. XIX. Of fuliginous vapours and ashes.
TOuching the white soot of metals, which is a precious garment to silver, if onely brought into Mercuries, wonderful to behold, that the corruption of metals and of the first bodies should afford the highest and the upper∣most turn to be the lowermost, where these soots are found surely there is metal at hand also; but fair and more natu∣ral is hardly seen, than there is in Styria, where they make good steel of it. In Wallachia it breaketh or is found neer silver, and this is the surest thing in the metalline work, as well in the Natural, as in the Afterwork, which seemeth most incredible unto the people; and again, that which is most uncertain proveth to be most certain; the reason of it is, because they know and understand it not better. Mi∣ners have in their clefts and passages things hanging and lying, in which great matters might be had and found, but
Page 41
require great toil, and is a dangerous work by reason of •heir poison. Though the Halation and breathing goeth •long, yet it carrieth many things with it, which hardly •ay be gotten from it, neither doth it quit the pain and expences. Miners call the matter after their way indis∣creetly and inconsiderately, as the greedy Alchymists sup∣pose, that when men speak of the mercury of bodies, to be the mercury of metals; or the salts of bodies, to be a •alt like other common salt; Ashes of Saturn are seen here •eetly, before they come or goe any higher, and before •hey do turn unto silver, for soon do they imbrace Antimo∣•y; the same the congealed water or coagulated Saturn hath likewise, and is a pure proof to all metals, and grow∣eth deep.

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

Page 42
CHAP. XX. Of Scobes and metalline water, of the Schlich and lie (Lixivium.)
NAture in her work must still have an increase and de∣crease, some things are coming, and others are going; and as above ground at the melting, and at the hammer me∣tals do lose somewhat, so it is under ground. But how these subterranean decreases are discerned, which like crums of bread should be preserved, Nature being provident keeps them together also, bringing them unto the day light, that they might be brought to good, and that metal is known also to be under that ground by the Scobs or alkali which it excerneth, namely, the rocks, stones, flints, which suck∣ed nature drie in her work, these are the offals, if empty of metals, and if some good oar be in it then that may well be called Schlich or sliding, because it slideth away from the work, it stealeth away, where such sliding is, take notice of it, for it breaks off from the matter in the officina, where∣in metals are in their work, and perform their office, and that Schlich or sliding is a sure signe that metals are in that place.

So the Lixivium also, or metalline water is a sure fore-runner of metals, and it dissolveth still in the work, and looseneth somewhat from the metals, in which there is a Schnede and vertue: for as I have said, when I made menti∣on of minerals, where there are fossilia mineralia, there is sure a Mine-work. And where such minerals are, they soon dissolve into a water or lixivium: and this is the dif∣ference betwixt the water and the lixivium; water affords only the mineral, and the metals allow the flowers there∣unto, out of these comes a lixivium: the effect of this
Page 43
water and lixivium is well known, for they carry in a hid∣den way flowers or tinctures of oars. The cement or lixivium at Schwelnitz in Hungary corrodeth iron into a Schlich or sliding; and if that iron sliding is taken again out of the Dray, and is cast, then is it good mercury. There are more of such lixiviums, but men regard them not, that water also is a sign of a very pure mineral; for let us consi∣der the water at Goslar, doth it not yield pure white and red vitriol? and in several other places there is found good copper, silver, and lead: out of these waters may be had again minerals, as you please or intend to have them, with∣out any great pains-taking. For if a mineral is exsiccated, then it hath no more the strength to run forth, but grow∣eth tough, and is dried up sinking into the ground. There are waters in Hungary, savouring of sulphur and allom, which afford store of gold and copper; alluminous water in Misnia afford silver and copper; the waters in Bohemia which taste of saliter or iron, afford several sorts of metal, except gold. The Mines in Styria have their special me∣talline waters and lixiviums, besides other excellent Mine-works, insomuch that the whole Mines are of meer steel, copper, gold, silver, quicksilver, and other things mens hearts may wish for. The salt waters at Franckenhouse, do they not signifie that there are curious Mine-works there? which if the inhabitants took more notice of, and were more known, what gains could they not make of them? The more these waters are running, the better they serve for many uses; if they are standing, it is a sign that there are evill and bad minerals at hand? and that there are cide, maters, and minerals that were gone and left behinde in abundance, of sediments and fumes. Take heed of these.

Page 44
CHAP. XXI. Of Scoria and Exuvium, of the seed & hull of the seed.
THe utmost, and last decrease, and diminution of me∣tals is cinder, which is very good and harmlesse. I mean that cinder which metals put off by their Uredines or soapes. For the exuvium or husk which the corruscation or by-breathing leaveth behind, and is like unto a cinder, is another sort of cinder, like unto that which comes from the forges of Smiths and Melters; for besides that they weigh their bodies, they cleanse them also, though the lie doth purge the Minerals and colours, yet themselves also do purge, as is seen by the cenders which every metal lea∣veth behinde in the fire, which however are not like unto this. By this cender it is seen also, that there are metals at hand; for the cenders of Minerals, which the corruscation causeth, are palpable, known, and visible: Understanding Miners know the same; There is a metalline cender a∣mong the slacks, but not known, which is the reason why slacks are so brittle, else they would be malleable, or else they could be cast compact; some have undertaken that work, but they could not get off these cenders.

Touching the Schwaden or husks, these do fairly intimate the departing of the seed, and of the work of all bodies: for when the hull ceaseth to work, and hath no more food, neither of the minerals, nor of the bodies, and now the Folium is gone into Spolium, then it is at separating, and breaketh the band of the leaf and seed, which is called the Swaden or husk; it is an extream poison, it destroyeth all that liveth, especially breathing things; for it is its intent to return thither again; therefore to what place soever it cometh, finding things that move and stir, the same it de∣stroyeth,
Page 45
and it self also; and at last, it returneth to the •ficina of the seed, helps to glue on and imbibe, and turns 〈◊〉 be a band again. Where such poison is, be sure that •ere was silver and metal there, but never in that place, where it went forth, and is turned into another thing; for •fter the decay of each body, and of its leaf, and after the •ff plucking a singular husk, the last it maketh is the fier∣est; for there it lieth like a Speculum upon the water, and •asily turneth into nourishments, which is the reason why 〈◊〉 turneth so soon to the metals, and so the nourishments •re infected contrary to their quality, that it wandereth so up and down is the reason, because it containeth some of •he seed and of the life, and is the untowardness: for the •eed must have something in which it may lie, which if it be not one of the bodies of the seven metals, then is it such poison or husk, this is the skin wherein it containeth it self, •o long till the corruscation forceth it away, which then •s death unto it

CHAP. XXII. Of the shining rod, or of the fire rod.
HE that intends to meddle with rods, must not follow after his own fancie, nor bring novelties unto Mine-works out of his suppositions. For nature indureth not to be curb'd in her order, but men must be regulated accor∣ding to nature. Concerning the rod, good notice must be taken of the Breathing, & this Lucens virgula, or fire-rod is ordered upon the operative & attractive breathing; for if it were strong, though it doth not kindle, yet it doth its office, through & by a heat appropriated to its quality. A great heat in a furnace puts out a small heat, light, or fire, the same ef∣fect hath this breathing upon this Rod, which being kindled & stuck in, is put out, no upper air or wind can hurt it; for our upper fire cannot live or burn under ground, for if a light or
Page 46
candle be hit against a stone or earth, it is put out, because it cannot fall in. It attracteth the nutriment, which maketh this Rod burn, and sucks it dry. This is remarkable in the matter of this Rod, that it hath an unctuosity which doth not burn, as the seeds husk is, whose poyson put out lights under ground in an extraordinary manner. And the brea∣thing above ground doth the same in a peculiar manner. Few miners know this fire, and is the onely means where∣by the inhalation is known. This fire-work, thus extract∣ed, is of special use in Mines, and then in the After-work is of severall use for metals; of the which more in its due place: to descry fire by fire is no mean skill, and the sub∣terranean fire can in no other way be mastered. Ancient Philosophers have written much of it: how superiour e∣lements make their juncture with the nether, intimating al∣so that by the means of the middle, Elements must be lear∣ned the emergy of the superiour and subterranean. For they are spirits which joyn the souls above with the grosser bodies below, else nothing could have any successe wit•in the earth, and for their operation there must be a medium, a gluten: to tie and bind fire with fire, is a strange max∣ime, but is a true one: hence cometh a reserve of fire, which never burneth; all three must be together: for the upper is the light fire, and the metal is the flame-fire, and the nether is the burning fire. This we shall know at the great day in the other life, where God will separate the burning from the flame, when it flameth; then will the burning consume Hell, and Hell will soon be burned away; neither will there be any clearnesse, but darkness, because God bestoweth the light upon his chosen ones, which is neither a flame nor a burning; here these must stand toge∣ther. Be acquainted with its friendlinesse and friendship, make it thy advantage, which is abstrusely hid, and goeth invisibly.

Page 47
CHAP. XXIII. Of the glowing Rod.
BEcause the stirring of the Rod is fallen into abuse a∣mong many people; however it is a fundamental way know and to bring forth the metals, if duely and natu∣•ly used. It is an undeniable truth, as I made mention of •fore, that metals do breath, and the same breathing is in∣•ible; the best means to learn it is the Rod, this is the •ason why I call this Rod the glowing Rod, because it re∣•aleth and sheweth the exhalation of metals, which ex∣•lation is of a fiery heat, though it casteth neither flame •r sparks, yet it is of such an heat, that it gloweth in its •anner, and brings the Rod into a glowing, which is an •fallible sign that there is a living metal at hand. This •od, if it should be more glowing without a flame, there •ust be used special matter, which receiveth that fire, else cannot be done with any utility. Concerning that Rod; is a stick or staff, of the length of half an ell, of hard •ood, as of oak, unto it is fastened the matter, even as a •rch or link is made of pitch or wax: this matter must be •f an unctuous matter, either of an animal, vegetable, or •mewhat else, which is upon or above ground; it must •ot be too strong, otherwise it sets the breathing on fire; •o talk, wax, pitch, or resein is fit to be used, nor any mi∣•eral, otherwise that breath, mineral, or metal would set its •od on fire, and consume it; it must be a calx of earth, which catcheth that heat suddenly, and smothers in a heat •s calx doth above ground, being moistened, it falls thus •ot off from the rod. This lime, burnt above by breath∣•ng, is good for several uses. But this breathing doth not •eize on the unctuosity or Mine-wax; else how could the •ourishment of minerals prosper? Miners call it a Spath,
Page 48
a true calx of the earth. It is not corroded and seized o• under ground, because it hath too much of humidity Some call it a Mine Mermel or subterranean Mermel, bu• is no such matter, because he doth not indure the weathe• above ground, exsiccateth, and by breathing is kindled a• last.

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

CHAP. XXIV. Of the leaping Rod.
WHilst metal is in its purification, that it neither ri∣seth nor moveth, then it hath its breathing the same as it is of a singular condition, must be discovered and led forth by a singular Rod; which Rod is of two sticks held together with both hands: where there is such a breathing, it lieth close on that Rod, no man is able to hold these sticks together, if that breatheth on them: and if it were a single stick, it would break in two, the inner side where this Rod is laid together must be anointed with Marcasite, that breathing draweth it downward, even as the Magnet is of an attractive quality, to draw iron; so draweth the breathing of this oar, the Marcasite; because the condition and property of the Marcasite is to strengthen the breath∣ing of the purification. There is not a better way of Re∣fining, as to use to each metal its peculiar Marcasite; there is a twofold Marcasite, one above of the Uredines, or upper
Page 49
elemental heat, and the other of the nether, of this Marcasite •chlich or small dust is put to the point of the Rod, the •etals breathing causeth the Rod to leap asunder. At mel∣•ng of oars and metals there must be added a double slack, 〈◊〉 upper and a nether, that the metal may bleak the bet∣•r; the like must be observed here at this purifying and •efining. The Marcasites, because (especially those above, •ot those under ground) carry soap-metal, and are pure, •elp the purifying very much; pure ferment put to dow, •rmenteth the same quickly; the same condition is in oars, small addition will further their Refining. There is a ge∣•eral complaint, that Marcasite requireth a great deal of •bour, before it can be brought to any good, what is the •ason? the true manual is unknown.* call that a manual, when Nature can •e assisted with advantage and skill. •dde to any metal or oar calcined, which you intend to re∣•e, that is fit to be added, you will quickly see the effect. could speak of the several Marcasites, of the several oars •d metals, but it is needlesse for the after-works; I would •t willingly have perverse men be acquainted with these •rets; they have it often in their hands, but they do •t know what they have; for what the Marcasite of iron?* it is not the •gnet? and what is it of gold? is it •t Lazul? and so forth of the rest. •e down into the mine, take this rule •ng with thee, then you will come •t of it more wise than you went •wn, and be thankful for it.

Page 50
CHAP. XXV. Of Furcilla, or of the striking rod.
AS mans natural breath goeth in and out, so is the hala¦•i•n also, & it carrieth all the rest. Mans breath when h• drinketh wine, smels not little of it, or after any other ha• sented food, this carrieth this breath in and out all othe• senting-breaths out of mans body; even so do I compa• this halation also, with a natural quick breath, which ca•¦rieth all the rest, that come in the Ferch and seed. So ther• is no other stricking rod for it, but what is of a years growt• which otherwise is called a Sommer-lath, this the Mine• cut off after the usual way, and so in the Name of God the• goe: if it strikes in, then is it good; if not, then his u•¦lucky hand and misfortune is blamed, which is fallen upo• him, and thinks that his handy-works are not blessed; th• out of a false conceit men suppose their own aptnesse a• disposition either hinder or further them therein, not cons•¦dering Gods gift and blessing; and the most of them doe not know, after what and at what these rods do strike, th• wear it under their girdle, or on their hat-band, keep it in devotion, as their superstition leadeth them unto, to g• their bread according to their necessity: God hath bestow• enough on them, if they knew how to manage their thin• judiciously.

There is one thing to be noted also, that the several a• or breathings have their several operations, especially up• aerial things. For Astronomers appropriate some tre• and fruits to the •ir. The upper air hath the upper part the trees and their fruits, the nether air possesseth the ro• milketh and atrracteth the juyce they yield, because it their alotted part as well as the upper part is allotted f•
Page 51
•he upper air, where it effecteth the juyce, leaves, fruits, •s it is seen, that the blessing cometh from above at first, which is palpably seen in propt twigs, they make the •wig and the fruit twistingly firm, and this sap sinketh in due •ime, which is drawn up by degrees by a hot air from below, which is their food, their work, matter, and all aeriall •hings.

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

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

Page 52
CHAP. XXVI. Of Virgula trepidans; or of the heaving or trembling Rod.
THe breathings driving the fumes together above and below, you must conceive, that it requireth great skill, to discern other breathings from this: the breathings o• the upper element are jovial, and the nether breathings are jovial also, the same is apparent in their work. The win• also is Jupiter, he fumeth these together, and that breath∣ing can hardly be discerned by the rod: this skill is of a• high strain: This heaving rod doth shew the way, it mu• be made of a metalline lamine, as of steel, which must be thrusted below the dam earth, at the end of that eart• these breathings and halations come together, and the ro• stirreth, quaketh, which it doth not, unless at such a time The rayes of the inferiour and superiour bodies may not be stayed, but onely at the work they do stand; for at their breathing they have their ascension and descension, are no• held in their life's going, unlesse by the matter of this rod, there is a knot on that stick, and it is hollow like a Cane; this matter of the rod is made of an Electrum, drawn fro• the best thin lamins of Luna and Sol, put into a glasse head which hindereth not the breathing, because it will not b• hindered, as a vessel may, made above ground; therefore look how you thrive, if you drive it in too deep, if you tak• not matter out of the inferiour earth matter, as hath bee• mentioned before.

The strength you perceived of the stricking rod, if ther• be an aerial halation at hand, you see how that rod quaketh for the inferiout ascendeth and toucheth, and the superiou• descendeth and toucheth likewise, which rouzeth as it we• the Ferch, or life and seed of the metal. The like appea•
Page 53
•eth in the clouds, how they move to and fro, before any snow or other weather comes, and before the vapours be digested, which ascended; the same processe have the halations subterranean, before they can mingle with the superiour halations, they must be pluck'd off, emalged: if any of them ascend yet higher, they dissolve either into •ain, or congeal into snow, dew, and hoar-frost, before they part asunder.

CHAP. XXVII. Of the falling rod, or of the nether rod.
THat there is a peculiar and vehement moving quality and power in the breathing and halation upward and •ownward, which may not be stayed by any opposition, the •ame is apparent in all the vegetables of the world. Rain •nd great thick mists may keep from us the solar shine, but nothing can stay this breathing, because it strikes directly thorow, but if it proveth weak in its fertility, it is the fault of the mild air; a shot out of a gun, if it is to goe a great way through the air, is cooled. This is the reason why the •olar beames have not that operation under ground, as they have above it, and hence also it is that the metalline matter •s not so fertile, however they do what they can, descend •o the metal, where they rouze a fire and preserve the same. Thus the Sun-beams must effect all in a magnificent and glorious manner, not onely above to preserve with its lu∣•tre the lights of all the stars, but by day also to impart un∣•o the world and men the day light. By these beames it •asts into the earth a dispersed fire, which is advantageous •o the preservation of subterranean things; they thrust •ogether homogeneal things, and bring metals to a com∣pactnesse, that they may be had pure above ground, they •elie and lean on them; from hence hath the rod its origi∣nal.
Page 54
For at some certain time you see the Sun draw water (as the vulgar speech is) so the beams have that quality, they comfort metals by stricking downward. There is used a stricking rod, above at its twist is left a part of the stick of three thumbs length, at the off-cutting take out the pith, put super-fine Sol into the halation which goeth in, pulls the rod in, where the oar is. The reason of it is, be∣cause the nether breathing of the air is there, and goeth a∣gainst, draweth this breathing, carrieth it down, and the metal within the rod is pull'd downward, as if it would joyn the same with the rest of that body. Thus the breath∣ings and halations are copulated; the beam must conceive on the earth, in which it is to operate, it bringeth no rain to the earth, but the vapours of the earth which rise, the same make or cause the rain, snow, and hoar-frost, bring the same to the earth, imbibing the same therewith; the same operation it hath on the subterranean vapours, caused by the breathing of the metals within; in their ascension it makes them heavy, so that they are able to fall unto Sol, helping the same in its fertile work. Having accomplished its fertility of the work, then such metalline rain falls also on the metal, maketh it ponderous, moveth its Ferch in the Lubricum, and draweth the rod down also more vehement∣ly than it doth to the stricking rod, which toucheth not the metal, but meerly the breathing, which is not yet nobi∣litated through or by the halation. This breathing might very well be called a fruitful rain, which thus comfortably refresheth them; it is not a running rain, but onely a brea∣thing which by the deep glittering Sol is made noble. I• is not sufficiently expressed when ignorant simple Miners usually say, that the Sun in her influences worketh gold not telling the manner of it (as I made mention of bu• now) themselves may goe yet to School, and learn thei• lesson better.

Page 55
CHAP. XXVIII. Of the superiour Rod.
AS the Planets have not their fixed and certain voluti∣on in the firmament, for the which they are called er∣•atick stars, the lesser remain in their fixed stations: the metalline bodies are of the same quality; for they do not •tick close unto bodies, but rise and fall; for that reason I compare them to the various motions of the stars above, •heir body is rolling and voluble, led and tinged by the Ferch and seed, which is for the most part of the Suns con∣dition. Planets with the Sun are of a special agreement in •notu & lumine, and their body may be said to be Lubricum & Volatile.

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

This Turco or Rod is a twisted tender branch of a Hazel, which from that twist on the bulk is hollow three fingers length, for its pith must be out of it, and the mercury of metals must be put in, the weight of three barley corns or grains: this Rod stirreth the halation from below upward, this is the condition of this Rod, whereby is known that that metal is of an infirm body, wanting the influence of •pper planets, being defective of the Solar heat, and not
Page 56
of that below, and is the cause why Mercuries-lubricum i• the rod is stirred, making it rebound; intimating, that it is unfit for his work, and that another body is fitter. The planets with their influence work more on imperfect me∣tals, than on perfect ones. For the Sun doth not put a gar∣ment on mercury of the body, but a certain constellation doth it, the rest joyning in the work, and are found next to it, except Sol and Luna, these meddle not with this Rod. Though these also are planets, and belong to a per∣fect breathing, and have their particular rod, as others have theirs, which press toward their several work, they are fit∣ted for not aiming at the works matter, which maketh its principle as the mercury of metals.

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

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

Page 57
CHAP. XXIX. Of resting vapours, or of their sediments.
MIne-works meet with many natural obstructions, as all other worldly things are subject unto. For all •hings sublunary are in subjection unto corruptiblenesse; •he same happeneth also unto metals; they suffer by their •old and hot fires, that they quite evaporate and expire. •s when their vapours and fumes grow ponderous, cannot •apour away upward: where such vapours are, Miners •annot brook under ground.

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

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

Page 58
CHAP. XXX. Of weather salt, halitus Melusus.
THe Malignant breathing, as it is generally so called, is a pestilent salt, which indangereth not only the Miners, but hurts the oars also: for it allayeth or maketh the brea∣things fall, which are in the oar, being thereby obstructed in their natural working. The manner of the setling of these breathings are worthy to be noted. It may be com∣pared unto an Eclipse, though the beams which ascendeth keepeth its course, yet the breathing stayeth it, and will not let it goe about that place; being in that stay and con∣dition, its Ferch and seed parteth; at last, through its sides or walls it suffers fluid oars to come in; thence is the ori∣ginal of such fluid oars, of which there are severall sorts. But this is to be noted; That weather is called a weather, because it is not of such clear air, as it is above ground with us, still carrieth something with it, which is grosser & hurtful unto man more than the air above with us: for men are not commanded to dwell and live under ground, but if any ones imployment lieth that way, he must be contented to do so, commit his condition to God almighty; because he must indure and suck in ill fumes, and get Mine-disea∣ses.

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

Page 59
CHAP. XXXI. Of Cos metallicus, or stone-salt.
THe air, being of one piece of pure earth, at last turn∣eth to a stone. There are severall sorts of stones, as •ere are several bodies in the earth, though all of them are •ut an earth. The longer the matter lieth, the harder and •tter it will be. Such stones cannot be stirr'd or heav'd, •lesse by fire, which seizeth on the earth, and consumes 〈◊〉, and turns it to a terrene firmament, as scales are in fish∣•s, and bones in beasts. These also the Lord will have in •is good time with fire. This moved the Ancients to •onsume their carcases with fire; though flesh soon comes •o rottennesse under ground, yet the bones do not con∣•ume so soon, the fire consumes them being turned to earth-•shes.

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

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

Page 60
CHAP. XXXII. Of the subterranean pooles.
THere is a most heavy case which befalls clefts, passages and structures, called water-pools under ground. For it is a truth undeniable, that clefts & passages under ground have their waters, both the day-water and the night-water, if once opened, then are they made passable, which prove the utter ruine of Mine-works. Therefore my counsell is, not to make passages navigable to come to the oars. It is just as if one would dig a mans heart out of his body, and he would begin to dig at the pulse, and so along all the way to the heart, would it not be an horrid butchery? There is a neerer path to the well, what needs to make far fetch∣es about. There is a twofold water under ground; the day-water, and the ground-water; the day-water is not hurtful unto the structures, but rather helpful, soaking away many things, and takes away many times from the stages the ground-water. Let the ground-water be kept out as much as possible may be, for it doth hurt, if it cannot passe away, neither let it spring from below out of its Catharacts. Keepe out the fire also; for both are hurtful to metals, and to all things in the world, if they play the masters.

Page 61
CHAP. XXXIII.•f Aurum metallicum; of the metalline gold, or of the Metalline-bed.
THere is another fatnesse under ground, where metals 〈◊〉 grow, neither is it the hull of the seed, nor the stone •um Petroleum, or Naphta, but is like unto an Uredo or •ne-soap. It differs much from soap; soap doth not •n, because it containeth a hidden Sulphur, not a com∣•stible one, but an incombustible one; this is the reason •y it doth not burn in a flame, neither doth it seize on a∣• other thing but onely on the pure metal, if that should •t continue with it, the metal could not come neither in∣• ascension nor descension, it consumeth first of all in the •etal, even as grease doth in the animals. This fatnesse is •t far from the oar; when it is predominant it consumeth •e metal quite, and evaporateth. Oil is of that vertue, put on the top of a drink, be it what it will, it keeps in 〈◊〉 strength and coolnesse: this fatnesse shuts up the oars •dy that no breathing can passe. Fatnesse hath a great •finity with iron, and is one of its next kinde; of the •hich great volumes could be written.

In the County of Schwartzburg, at Wackersberg there is •ore of such fatnesse, looks like quick silver, and swimeth •nd tinctureth red, like Bole, this colour it took hold on, •nd it may be extracted from it, some call it a Mercurial •ody or a Tin-glasse, Lead-glasse, Wismuth or Antimony; 〈◊〉 seizeth on all those, and when this fatnesse doth •ot turn to a fatnesse of such metals, where the seed •s predominant, then it turnes to a volatility, and to a great Robber. This fatnesse is a greasie earth, glit∣•ering like a salve, of a red and browne glowing,
Page 62
as if it were Quick-silver or beaten Talk, or glasse strow into. In the Rocks of Bohemia and Transsylvania there great store of it at Goslar and at Slackenwald, even as qui• silver or lead oars are; many of them are found here a• there.

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

Page 63
CHAP. XXXV. Of Creta, Chalk or stone meal.
VVEE see in this our air that no fume or wind as∣cendeth in vain, it dissolveth again into one thing ••other, thither resort many meteors; the like meteors •h the earth under ground: For the fume which ascend∣• from the fire-halation of the oar, or of the metal, and •ords the stone meal (Creta) wherever it falls or lighteth, grindeth more, and increaseth abundantly, having a dan∣•rous salt, whereby it hurts those places, where metals 〈◊〉, especially when they are in their ascension, hindering •eir colour. It is apparent in the slat at Mansfield, where •ieth betwixt the spoaks of the ores, and can hardly be •tten from thence, it robbeth and consumeth Folium and •olium: The stone-meal maketh a Kuff with stone-mar∣•w, turning it to a kind of marble, called the Potstone or ••lit, a double stone, and is dark and very firm, it striketh •e, being for the most part of fire.

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

Page 64
CHAP. XXXVI. Of Spiro, or of the Blast.
THe Spiro or blast in an instrument which bringeth 〈◊〉 right the weather or obstructed air, otherwise all wou• turn to stone, where it is, and would be at a stand there, the lower fire should enter instead of the air, and exic•¦teth, though it doth not kindle, if a piece be beaten off 〈◊〉 it, then it appeareth so, and this piece which flieth thus 〈◊〉 side giveth to understand, how it maketh the stone, & ho• Nature frameth the oar and metal: but jewels and precio• stones are from another off-spring out of sweet waters.

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

Page 65
CHAP. XXXVII. Of Pulfa, or of the Break-stuff, or brittle matter.
THis salt is ingendred usually by a malignant fume, which the Mine-fire should have; And when the •nes be very hard, then there must be made a fire of wood, •here the fume draweth to the stone-fire, and groweth •ick, and if the fumes of Succinum, and of other things are •yned, it turneth then to such poison, that the oar must be •ed, else it perisheth, for that fume lieth on the oar fuli∣•ous Kobolt which corrode and consume the oar; there a •ll must be applied, which is round and hollow, having •ole at a bignesse at which a quill may enter, it must be so •se, that no air may either enter or get out, this ball must 〈◊〉 filled with gun-powder, cover the same with cotten∣•ol boiled in Salpeter, then dip it in melted pitch, which mixed with some Sulphur, kindle that ball, let it go down a box, or fling it on a Stolln or chamber, when the ball •eth asunder, it expelleth that fume, not onely by that •oak, but with the blow or report the gunpowder makes. •ch a ball may be applied also to water, and be sunk in an •strument under water, in which noisome fishes are feared; 〈◊〉 crack will kill the fishes that are there; there is a past, •hich giveth no report, but onely burneth, and destroyeth, •d heaveth this salt; but have a care what past you make •e of, and have a respect to the upper Scaffolds, whither •ey be old or new, that they be not imbezled, and your •st must be mixed, so that it may do no hurt.

Page 66
CHAP. XXXVIII. Of Clathrum, or of the blank fire.
THis fire needs nothing for its food, shineth in darknesse is a special fire for Mine-works, quitteth the charges, i• applied, more than the expences do, bestowed upon Ta• or Bromith work; For oil in some places may be had che• enough, casts no smoak, destroyeth fumes; it is put into glasse ball which is put into a basket, to keep it safe from water and sand, which affords a light to the workmen Miners ought to know how to enter their ground for th• hight or metalline Speculum, which is a singular manuall for the metalline breathings, and after-halations joyn an• come together, require special instruments whereby they may be known; for where these do joyn, and the diurna• breathing is predominant, then it exhaleth by day, shinet• out of the earth; Miners call this a metalline breathing true it is so, but they leave out something, so it is but half breathing; if the after-breathing is predominant, then i• appeareth by that Speculum and light wherein it maketh it self known. She is in work with something, and there is at hand such a metal; metals do shine, though it doth no• appear so to our eyes, like as rotten wood doth: by day they are not quiet, as long they are working, but there mus• be a reflexion of their work, which is this light. It cast¦eth no beams, as the day-light or rotten wood doth, by night it receiveth one from such a dark or duskish shadowes light.

Fair and curious breathings are seen therein, and tha• light of darknesse is a light you may see by it, he that is di¦stant from it five or six yards seeth it not, nor canst tho• neither, for it is such a light as is in the eyes of Cats, dogs and wolves, which can spie thee, though thou c•nst not se•
Page 67
•m, for there is a light at night as well as by day, which •pparent in these bodies, which receive their light from Nocturnal light, for if that power were in themselves 〈◊〉 would ejaculate beams, which they do not, and ex∣•ence evidenceth it, that there is a subterranean ignis dis∣•s, a scattered fire.

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

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

CHAP. XXXIX. Of the Gluten, or Mine-glue.
•He best help and remedy which may be applied to sub∣terranean pools, are wells: for where these break forth,
Page 68
they carry that water away: a better and neerer is not tha• the Gluten, to dam up or keep out the day water, that the• do not run any farther; this damning hath great utility it maketh the water not onely slimy and tough, but it dr•¦veth it backward, that it be served for some other issue, a• be rid of it in that place, where it is naught, and meer• obstructive.

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

CHAP. XL. Of TRUTA, or of a Past for to corrode the st••• through, or through eating.
THere is almost nothing which is a greater hinderan• unto Mine-works, than water is, and where the Glu• is not sufficient to keep it out, and in places where it is 〈◊〉 in, and must be drawn away with lower buildings, as wi•Stoln, or beams and pipes: it is an huge and dangero• work, to make these thorow-breathings good and holdi• it costeth many mens lives, and great expences must made, therefore wayes and means must be thought upon make wayes through with burning, to make such a f• which corrodeth the rock, and grinds the stone, ea•ing
Page 69
small and thin, that the water may get thorow, and run a∣•ay, that the Miners may not lose their lives in that water, 〈◊〉 usually it befalls them at such works. This fire corro∣•eth great stones in running waters or rivers; it is a corro∣•ing fire, a Gluten being made, which is lined or covered •ith combustibles, poured or cast down through a channel •r pipe, guarded from water, that Gluten may be effectual, •ough it be under water many fathoms deep, it still cor∣•deth further, gathering strength by that, it eateth upon •d burneth, and presseth still lower, it doth not smoak, •eing a running corrosive fire.

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

Page 70
CHAP. XLI. Of the Traha, or heaving materials used instead of a dray or slead.
IT is known, that breathing, and halation, and the wea∣ther uphold all both artificial and natural things: it is ap∣parent in great Edifices, that the things exposed to wea∣ther cannot hold, if neither water nor winde tied; the great reparations in such structures signifie so much.

There is a place in Zips or Sepusium, called the Toh•s∣chaw, where firm steel ascendeth by day, and in that place there is no Mine of steel, no instrument can get any scale from it, but lying in the weather one winter and sommer, it gets a scale of two fingers thick. Thus it is apparent, that the weather heaveth also a stoll, or the great beam or metalline body, why should it not lift and heave a stone. This appeareth further at the falling down of great snow-bals from Mountains about Saltzbu•g, and in Styria, where great pieces of rocks fall down with such snow bals, as big as an house is, which heat and cold hath thus corroded and loosened. Hannibal making the Alos passable for his ar∣my, poured warmed vinegar on the Rocks, whereby he made them so brittle, that they soon could be wrought thorow; oil doth the like, if well prepared. Acetum's made of ve∣getables of wine, beer, fruits, are pretious for such purpo∣ses. Cistern-waters may be turned into Acetum's, if coct∣ed with honey, being made warm first; this driveth the fire back, which is in stones, for there are commonly Horn-stones & Fire-stones, which are made brittle by such means. There is made a Petroleum also, •o that you need no fal•er-oil, nor any other; no, not Naphta neither, drawn from Osteinmark, or calcined flints, such water-acetum's being
Page 71
poured upon, & other frighting waters, whereby the hardest •ints are terrified and made brittle. It stands upon natu∣•al reason, that such stones must be dealt withall in this manner; For behold the Gluten and Aquafort, of what ef∣•icacie these are? Doth it not corrode the Pumice-stone like Bees-wax, and the Top-stone like a marble of divers co∣•ours. Consider well the white marble, and the sliding •and, in which the Pumice is, you will finde what manner of lixivium's may be boiled from them.

CHAP. XLII. Of the frost in Mine-works.
THe greatest troubles that Miners are put unto is to pull and draw up all the filths & stones that are naught out of the Mine-works, that a way be made to come deeper in. Above ground they call it an heap of rubbish. It costeth •o great matter to cleanse, dissolve, and void these rub∣•ishes with corrosive wares; it costeth little, if rightly ma∣•aged and handled, to dissolve first the lightest things, these being made riddance of, the rest may easily be voided. That earth under ground must not be look'd upon, as that is above with us, adorned with grasse, for under ground there is least of the earth, there is a mixture of all man∣ner of things, as salts, juyces, minerals, stones, the least part is earth, and yet that part is the noblest; for our of it are made all manner of metalline bodies: There are sharp∣er things, all of which must not be used at once; and must be effected with these, when that which is above can∣not be applied to that which is beneath: juyces also are easie in their uses for to corrode and make brittle. Sulphur alone performeth the work, which is a poison unto juyces and saps. Miners and such that are imployed about such works must have knowledge of such things, and exercise
Page 72
themselves herein by way of practice: for all particulars belonging to these manuals cannot be set down upon white and black: experimental knowledge must be joyned here∣unto, not only a depending from things written.

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

CHAP. XLIV. Of Ignis torrens, or of the roasting fire.
THings inclining to ashes, and soot, and excrements of metals, and the exuviums or hulls of bodies melters suppose may be taken and gotten off safely in a roasting or calcining fire, they make a great fire of wood under them, roast, or calcine the metal, that as they suppose they retain
Page 73
nothing thereof, or of such offals you heard of now, they •eld their exuvium, and copper yields cinders and slacks; •ut if frightened, then it rubbeth and consumeth iron; •erefore nealing is more commendable, as they do at •ansfield, a great heap of oar is laid together, which they •dle, let it stand in a gentle glowing heat, and burn a∣•ay that which should come off in that glowing. Metals 〈◊〉Swedland are healed thus at the heat of the Sun in Som∣•er, there it runs finely together, and purgeth it self so •atly, insomuch that it would be refined, if it staid its me in that heat. This nealing I do better approve of •an of the calcining in a fire-flame. There is a twofold •owing fire, and metals require a twofold glowing or nea∣•ng: one sort of it is used at Mansfield, they kindle with •undles of straw the heaps of slats, let them glow of their •wn accord, and they do it like an heap of coals, and the •r is nealed, which is put in for that purpose. Secondly, •ealing is good also for bodies of stones, reducing them in∣•o calxes; but those that made metalline calxes in an in∣•osing heat. or glowing fire, they got onely the calxes of •e bodies exuviums. Therefore neither themselves, nor •thers have any cause to marvel, if they do no good 〈◊〉 that way.

CHAP. XLV. Of the corroding fire.
THis fire ought to be set among the coal fires, be∣ing of a consuming nature, and their corrosivenesse 〈◊〉 in the cold fire, and it hath the same qualities which •he burning fire hath; it shineth and burneth; its burn∣•g is corroding, in that it is better than the other, •ecause it doth not burn it to ashes, but brings the bodies to dust or sand, which would be toilsome, if by filings it
Page 74
should be brought to stars: the next neighbour to this fi• is the glowing fire, of the which I will give onely 〈◊〉 hint.

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

CHAP. XLVII. Of Ignis incubans, or of the Lamp-fire.
THis fire serveth when metals are wrought openly, and not luted in, then the metal doth not flie away in a dust, nor doth its best run away; for you heard that a fla∣ming
Page 75
fire is hurtful, for to work metals withall. Lamp-di∣•es are commonly of glasse, set in an earthen pan, filled •ith ashes or sand, kept in a sweating, in that sweat many •ppose the metal receiveth its body, or the one changeth •o the other: I leave this transmutation in its worth, and •not approve of it. Touching this warmth, I cannot •prove nor find fault with it, and all metals indeed should 〈◊〉 dealt withall in this manner.

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

CHAP. XLVIII. Of the cold fire.
THis is a strange fire, little can be said of it to those which cannot conceive of it; whether it was not •ken notice of, or whether they did despair of it I know •ot: this is it which elsewhere is called coagulating; it •nnot consume the other fire; it can melt the work, but 〈◊〉 consume it is impossible; it works in the air as well as in •e fire, where it sheweth its efficacy, and is the sole proof •f its fusiblenesse; metalline mercury is of a cold fusion, •l other fusions are hot; if you believe it not, feel it; •e fixation of the warm flux is called coagulation, there •e one opposeth the other; the one congealeth, the o∣•er keeps in a liquidnesse: this difference must be known
Page 76
by those which are imployed about melting of metals, an• their fluxes.

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

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

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

Thus much of this first Part; where I infirmed about the nether work, or fore-work, governed and observed by na∣ture, whereby she holds forth unto us metals and mine∣rals
Page 77
in their formes. He that conceiveth aright of this work •d considers it, worketh with advantage and utility, and is great help to proceed successfully in Alchymie, which •itateth and treadeth into her steps. I wish hearty suc∣•sse to all such, which bear an affection and love thereun∣•.

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

End of the first Part.


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

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

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

LONDON, Printed Anno Domini, MDCLVI.


Page 81

---

THE SECOND PART OF BASILIUS VALENTINUS,

CHAP. I. Of Mines and Clifts, and what manner of middle works and second in oars are.
IN the first place there lieth a necessity upon every Miner, to know how to search and dive into metalline passages, how they strike along, and they must be well acquainted with all their occasions and conditions; and if at any place he intends to fall to work, 〈◊〉 must know how to use the Magnet of the Compasse, •here East, South, West, and North lieth, and learn the •ayes of this and that oar, and where their issue is, and 〈◊〉 w•ll informed of the long and short stroaks of metalline •ss•ges, and where they d•aw together to a metalline •m. The forms of metalline oar are several; some car∣• Talk slats, an oar which containeth silver and lead; o∣•ers are very brittle, having little of slate and Talk, and
Page 82
these are discerned by their firmnesse: there are other stones in which appear Copper, and the flowers of Zwitter▪ there are others also which have flat floats and slate-stone, in which is wrought Copper oar: hence it may be gather∣ed, that by reason of these several formes, are produced se∣veral fruits; and in Mines toward the South better oars are found, then there are some toward the West called af∣ter-oars; between which there is alwayes ordered or pla∣ced a center of perfection.

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

That the true center may be comprehended and conce•¦ved of, God hath made the first separation according to h• word; The Spirit of the Lord moved upon the water, th• whole elemental body of the earth hath been water, b• the Spirit of the Lord Zebaoth hath divided it, & fashion•
Page 83
the earth from the muddinesse of the water, and therein all metalline fruits that ever were created and generated un∣der ground, all these were first water, and may bee reduced againe unto water: all other creatures, be they animalls, vegetables, mineralls, all these are produced from the first water, the several kinds of beasts, fishes, and sea-monsters, after the Lords spirit, and after the first eternal breathing Essence, which brought forth and shaped things tinged and untinged, soft and hard, small and great creatures; after the twelve stones in the brest-plate of Aaron. He created man after his own image, the holy Spirit was infused into Adam, who had a fulnesse of eternal wisdome, and that according to the order of Melchizedeck. Almighty God, who is the first and last, the first principle and end of all things, hath set his gifts into times & hours, dayes & years, which according to his eternal Decree have their revoluti∣ons; he hath blest in his most holy means Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Aaron, Melchizedeck, and others he hath infinitely blessed, according to his good will and pleasure from eter∣nity, putteth several periods unto them; and in his unsear∣•hable decree and will he hath laid the foundations also for Minerals and Metals, a help for the supporting men in their •eccessities in this miserable life; thus hath he meliorated •nd exalted the earth in her goodnesse; men have reason •o return hearty thanks unto the Creator for it.

God in his gracious providence, next unto the knowledg •f himself, and of his holy word, can bestow no better gift to man, than to indue him with the true knowledge of Metals and Minerals: Jews thought themselves wise men •erein: but as little some Miners know Minerals and Me∣•als, as little knew the Jews their Messias and Gods word 〈◊〉 its true sence. Therefore from that blessed and promised Countrey the knowledge of pretious stones, minerals and metals are come to us, as by an inheritance, as being the •st, and are become the first, and they the last; but 〈◊〉 the end Heavens gate will be opened unto them again, •ternal and external gifts and means will be bestowed on
Page 84
them, and the true use of metals will be none of the mea∣nest.

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

CHAP. III. Of the stones, rocks, and flints of Gold, its operation, condition, and striking courses.
GOld is wrought in its proper rocks and marbles, and in the purest matrix of the firmest earth, of a most per∣fect salt, Sulphur and Mercury, purged from all feces, and impure spirits, with the conjunction of a natural highly clarified Heaven, of white, yellow, and red sulphureous earth, after the fiery nature of Sol, in a deep fixation; inso∣much that none of all other metals hath an higher, com∣pacter, and more ponderous body of a goldish matter, in which there is no humidity; all the elements are equally in it bound up, which in their unity have wrought such a fixed body, tinged the same throughout with an everlasting citrin colour, with the deepest tie and uniting of its pure earth, Sulphur and Mercury; and with its Vitriol essence it doth all, what the Sun among the Stars doth operate. Na∣turally, all is gold, what cleaveth thereunto in and at all sides; and it is found in the best and closest stones and passages, and the power of Sol worketh meerly upon that
Page 85
oar, and in its quality is comparable unto Sol. This noble gold stone and oar is sometimes mixed, and on its outside •here sticketh some obscure and dark matter, having annex∣ed to it some slats and other spermatick matter, which de∣•racts from the goodnesse of its own nature; and though •he Creator hath indued it with great Vertues, yet doth it •umble it self, and suffers it self to be found in despicable Mineral-stones, where it loseth much of its tincture, as is apparent by the Touch-stone, where the mixture of Copper, Silver, Tin, and others is seen; all these mixed impurities can be separated from it with artificial Manuals, and with little ado it may be brought into a perfect state. Gold oars naturally are wrought thus, that the gold stands in it close, compact, firm, and good, which is found sometimes in the crosse passages. Its fixednesse is found in the deepnesse under ground, where it hath its greatest power, and it is found also sometimes in a speckled jaspis, full of eyes, and mixed with flints in its passages, where many times Vitriol flint is found abundantly, which Vitriol is the best among all other sorts of Vitriols. The Hungarian Vitriol hath the precedence before all the rest, which is sufficiently known in their proves and exemines, as may be demonstrated to the eye. In its passages are found sometimes fluxes of seve∣ral colours, which are interlined with gold, and must be forced with fire. To that purpose, it is requisite that it be dealt withall with such fire, as you heard in the first part, commonly Zwitters and Zirn stones are such, which must be stamped and beaten, and drawn to a narrownesse, and fined.

Gold is wrought also in standing passages, and on level ground, the oars and such passages are yellowish, rocky, and of an iron shot-sand in clifts is it on-grown compactly, and generally is it found neer Flint-works, sometimes it is found in a flint, or in a liver-coloured jaspis, sometimes in white peebles, that gold which is in it is of a white colour, like silver, or in white copper oar, where it sticketh hoary and rugged: it is found also in brittle Lime-stones, where it stands curl'd with black specks unsprinkled, is granulated,
Page 86
like drops found in the subtilest firm stones, spotted wi•• iron moals or spots, and are protruded in fair yellow flowers and are a black exhalation thrust out. It is found also i• streaked slat-works in pure passages, mixed with a ble• Horn-stone and slat; in flinty glittering passages it is foun• hoary, and compact wrought. There are found also fla• marble floats, wherein in all your clifts is wrought inheren• gold, mixed with green grit, and iron spots; sometimes i• is found also in square iron shots, or porous marble Marca∣sites; but for the most part in grits, sometimes gold oar i• found also compact & firm in black passages: some gold oa• and gold passages are found also to be of Minerals and o• Vitriol, and Miners in Hungary especially can discourse of it, because gold oar is found in that manner in those parts.

CHAP. IV. Of silver oar, of its Mine, operation, condition, and striking passages.
SIlver oar is wrought in its own stone, of a perfect nature and most noble earth, and of a fix clear Sulphur, salt and mercury, which with a mixture doth joyn in a fix and firm uniting, and appeareth of a degree lower than the gold is, and is the best metal next to gold, and in the fining of it it loseth very little, and is separated per se, or with other metals joyned in the fire, its natural fitted stone causeth the silver oar, following its heavenly influence, and the noctur∣nal influences of the Moon. In Northern parts the most silver passages are found; for as Luna borroweth her light from Sol, even so the Silver-passages and silver stones have at their right side Gold-passages, and with that noble Queen Lunaria is compared a root, whereby the Gold passages ac∣quire strength, and get the more power in that mixture, and
Page 87
get their oars from their roots. Ancient Philosophers wrote •rangely of her Vertues, to be a fertile yoak-fellow of Sol,•hich may be applied to the upper and nether metalline •ork, because nothing is so fix, next gold, then silver is in •s perfection, and is the reason why silver-passages are ac∣•ompanied with white fluxes and Mineral-veins, next •ereunto are such passages, in which are generated red Mineral-sulphur, and red yellow juices of the noble gold.

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

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

There are found and seen also in a certain vein & passage in mixed Lime-stones, lead, iron, and copper oar in one u∣nion
Page 88
and juncture. And in one Mine is found copper oa• in another is found silver oar, and in another Mine there i• found an iron stone; why should not such remarkable di∣stinctions b• taken notice of, which Nature from Gods ima∣ginatio• hath h•ld forth so gloriously unto Miners, and se• these before them to be discerned by them. Some silve• passages are found also in their natural Zachstones, which either are in the hanging or lying on•s. Silver passages shew themselves also with blue gritty flowers, in hollowed fluxes, in sprinkled Marbles, and c•rry flint-work• of seve∣ral colours, and these passages and clifts are full of pleasan• silver colours, of yellow and green, of a colour of Goslings, the more they are mingled with such colours, the mo•e they have wrought.

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

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

Page 89
This metalli•e oar is much wrought i• slat float-works, •hich are green fl•n•y; many times it appeareth in a red 〈◊〉 b•w• form, and is seen also like lime-stone in black and e••w sl•• works, like unto coals in green flinty passages, 〈◊〉 a •wo•••d manner, either current, or in a manner of a oar: sometimes it is red and brown, mixed with a green ••ou•, some are of a lazure colou•, some of a copper ••sse, flinty and iron shot, or of a white •ood. The cop∣•er oar in its passage is sometimes rich of gold, and of sil∣•er, as it is accompanied with curiou•Zach stones, and in∣•osed with passable stones▪ if so be that other metals and •inerals do not intrench upon them, which corrode & con∣•me them: And copper oar is a slat work also, mixed w•th •liated earth, and the m••curial copper is hardly brought •ut of it at or in an ordinary mel•ing, affords store of iron, •nd no ripe copper-food, which rub very much the copper 〈◊〉 roasting, and make it unmalleable: the richest copper •ars are fou•d in Hungari•, Bohemia, Silesia, Thuringia, •assia, and Voigtlandia; the like is found also about Trau∣•enau, where it breaketh every where in a manner of 〈◊〉 float, mixed with sand oar, and where it breaketh •ehemently in the slat work, they call that slat of •lifts, they are poor in silver, and such must be roast∣•d or calcined, in some places it breaks in a fair blue •nd brown colour, or it looks ruddy, of a copper •lass, •nd like unto green oaker, and sometimes it is white •oldish, which is called white copper oar: it groweth white at an effectual mixture, because at its uniting it •ssumeth or taketh in much of silver and of lead: it •reaks also of a yellowish and l•zure like colour, green ••inted upon floats & moving passages, in lime & spongeous •tones. It breaks also of a blue colour like blew oaker, is •opper, glassy, and flinty, in great and huge rocky & marble •assages, being mixed with a white marble: they are rich in •ilver, in green slat stones which are clear and brittle; it •ieth dry and green in clifts, open caves, and passages, like green frogs insprinkled one in another, in a strange manner,
Page 90
distinct, or parted with strange pleasant colours, whic• graduated works are losers in half their worth; in the•• rocks are strange clifts of Marble, and of white veins, ye•¦low flint is insprinkled and mixed with copper passages which yield much silver, have few flowers, are of a p••∣derous form, break very flinty, of a red glass, of a gree• colour mixed with yellow flowers, these flints are joyne• with white gold marble, of a green colour, besides th• rocky passage.

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

These commonly have the best and most copper passages• which are least mingled with other metals, as lime, and tar∣tareous stones, in which black flo•ts and sl•ts do break are inclosed with green, and are of mild quality; at Eislehe• and Mansfield Miners put their several proper names to i• very exactly, according unto their nature. Miners in Mis∣nia know least how to distinguish these, the upper part o•
Page 91
clay-earth they call Pistredo, in which the true earth is al∣• and when they came to the stones, they call it the Day-••rk, because they cover all the rest, & turn quite to stone. ••e third place they come unto they call Night-work, be∣••use it is easily lifted and heaved one after another, and is •re, then they come to the Cave or Hole-work, which must 〈◊〉 hollowed and set, here are the stones which must be •oken, then they came unto the sl•t, and below that flat •ey come unto the sand oar, though sometimes it be on∣•••own at the Lochwerg, or hole-work above the slat, then •ey turn unto the dead earth again. Slat and richest cop∣••r oar at the silver breathing lieth also on the rocky, horn∣•ony combustible oars, which have their gold and silver •ssages of your special kind, among which there are found •veral forms how each of them is discernable. In Hun∣••ry and Carinthia the passages yield copper oars, which ••pper is very malleable, and is at a dearer rate than any is 〈◊〉 the whole Europe, as their Minerals also, and especially •e Victriol there is held to be the best: as also their An∣••mony is counted the best. That Vitriol hath the best and •rest vertues, which is known to true Naturalists, and ex∣•erience hath proved the same to be true. I speak some∣••ing now, which if Reason and Understanding were an∣••erable, many expences, hard work, and good time could •e saved, and it comes onely from hence, because Gold •reaks so near to it, and at the same oars is found, where •hat earth is impregnated with goldish seed, and make use •f the same food in many subtile unitings. Minerals in their •enerating qualities are better supported among perfect me∣•als, where they are higher, and more effectual, and are best •sed for both such perfect metals, in case Nature be rightly •mitated, the ancient Philosophers have bad experience of, •nd made trials of it. There is a remarkable difference •ound among Minerals, which have their descent from gold •nd silver oars, and partly from copper oars; they are Mi∣•erals and metals, each have their particular nature and be∣•ng, among which some oars look green, and bleach at the
Page 92
day, and grow near other metals; but their stones are m• like unto lead-stones, some whereof are grosser, softer 〈◊〉 harder than others, and some are more obscure, dark, m••¦dy, and some more green, and so forth.

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

Secondly, steel, the hardest and purest most malleabl•
Page 93
it 〈◊〉, of its proper light drayning place, wherein it lieth ••e, tied and knit together, in all its parts most compact∣•y, which in all iron-works is usually put to the edge 〈◊〉 point.

Thirdly, there comes the common iron-oar, ordered to∣•her by its earthly Sulphur, which three ministred good ••ughts to the first expert Naturalists, that Master of •ne-works Tubat Cain, who made his three principles in things, and made his dimensions in the Mines in three •tinct parts, in which such metalline oar, he found at first •e iron stone wrought in several wayes, namely, upon stan∣••g passages and floats, fallings and proper pieces ring'd, •er the four Elements and colours of the Rain-bow. •en he considered exactly its flowers, according to the ••ndition of each stone-work, how and out of what the •n stone may most conveniently be melted, and what man∣•r of instruments may be used thereunto, where it may •st and most firmly be wrought; for its oar affords a three∣•ld ferocity and wildnesse, which are useful, as namely •lasse heads, which are like a sharp blood-stone, breaking 〈◊〉 the manner of a skull, are scalie, and brown spissie, some •hereof are white thorns, like the wood upon which A∣••aham purposed to offer his son Isaac. Secondly, the •rown-stone, out of which is made glasse and iron colour. •hirdly, granulate iron-filings in the float-work, which is 〈◊〉 hard, that it can s arcely be forced to be gotten off, or •e brought to right, and when the iron-stone is come to its •erfectnesse, then it breaketh off by piece-meal through ••e stone and rock, that there are found whole Mines of ••on stone, such is the iron oar in Styria. The best iron-•tone is black, or red brown, sometimes it inclineth to a •ellowishnesse, some is of a cherry brown in the floats •nd stocks, some are black and small spissie, some yellowish, •hich glittereth among the rest, like a copper stone of a •rown black marble, & of a fair glass, some looks like s•pa∣•ated float-work, throughout the whole Mine, some is c•o••y 〈◊〉 hoary in clayish fields, which only is called the Driving, is
Page 94
as the sand stone, most hurtful unto gold, because it aff••¦eth most of the slacks, and very little of iron. Some sti•• in the gray clay, which affords most malleable iron, b•• of a brownish colour. There breaks also good iron stone tartareous and limy Mines, and the most running is on ••¦standing passages, in eristy sandy Dalkstones. The gr• clift stones break some in their slats. It usually breaks a• in the fore and after Mine-works, where some of it li•• off-washed among the Roasts, like a brown arch; and 〈◊〉 the day there is no oar so common as the iron-stone, beca•• it assumeth and taketh in other oars, and setteth it thoro• thus often it changeth its colour and nature, after it th•• insues Glassheads, Emasites, brown stone, Osemund, Bolus, to¦gether with the red oaker and iron shell, all those assu•• the Nature of iron, and the iron stone receiveth the high•• metals, Gold, Silver, Copper, Tin, Lead, whereby it grow¦eth untoward, but gold and silver are not hurtful unto i• they make it malleable; that which is mixed with cop∣per, or with other poor metal easily falls asunder, 〈◊〉 brittle, of the same condition is iron-flint, producing out of many passages an huge flint, partly porou• like unto a black slat, which besides the iron stone yieldeth another grosser or subtiler iron. By this exchan∣ging Tubat Cain, the great and first Mine-master did per¦ceive, that the stones have their activity, he looking about, and finding that the Lime-stones, which contain iron oar, are of such mixtures, which may be burned to lime or calx, to raise walls with them; and how other sorts of Tapff-stones, as also calx stones are fit for to be burnt, and found them to be helpful for his melting. Thus the iron stone is associable unto other stones, be they metalline, or mine∣ral. At Musbach there is copper shot iron, which hath a lead joyning thereunto; Founders must be expert to deal with such oars in their melting, and Magistrates do wisely that train up their subjects in such wayes, for the good of the publick. Thus is the iron the first and last Mine-work, a chief metal which many creatures cannot want it, being
Page 95
of most necessary use, whereby things within and above earth can be forced, no man is able to remember all the 〈◊〉 it may be imployed unto, for every day things fall out, which there is need of the use of iron: iron easily re∣•eth a malleablenesse in a transmuting way, of which •e of the ancient Philosophers have spoken; our iron •awn from the Magnet, performeth many useful works •he affinity with copper, which it is neer kin unto, as al∣••nto the gold and lead, for thereby are made the most •rious Alcali, which appear helpful in many things unto •er creatures, as Poets write of, and attribute many •ange qualities by way of parable unto iron; and if in ••ing all the vertues thereof should be comprehended, it •uld rise to a great Volume; its stones have in many •untreys decreased, all other metalline stones are upon ••ir decay, onely gold, silver, copper and lead keep their •l iplying condition all the world over.

CHAP. VII. Of Lead oar, its Mine, condition, and striking passages.
THe lead oar is wrought under that heavenly impression of the black and cold Saturn, by an undigested water∣• Sulphur, impute metal and salt. First, generally there is •rought a brittle glittering lead-colour in that oar which 〈◊〉 called Glasse, breaking in many rocks, containeth gold •nd silver, yield grosse and lasting Mine-works. Some lead •tones are very broad, because glasly oars are mixed with it, •ith flints or ma•casites, partly they are glassy, red goldish, white goldish, silvery, copper glassy, and of copper. Some •ead oar tutn to a blue colour, mixed with a white transpa∣•ency, like unto a shot Bolus; some is like unto the stone-salt and allom; some are of a dark green, like unto green
Page 96
floats, which lie gritty in a yellow or glue-coloured cla• some are of a brown black, some are yellow red, like ••¦nium, some is pu•e and compact, some is insprinkled 〈◊〉 moving, some is mixed with iron, some with silver & lea•• some are mixed with marbles and flowers; some brea• also upon standing and level moving passages, and some 〈◊〉 wrought in pieces here and there in•sla•e-mines, whe• black lead lieth along through the whole Mine; some 〈◊〉 glassie in Lime-stones, and some is very rich of silver i• huge marble passages. There is a twofold Marble; th• silver passages have an earthly mixed grosse marble, white red goldish, red glassie, and ponderous. But the Lead passages have a sub•ile ligh•, & glassie brittle Marble, whic• looks like the glass• upon gold Mine works, is of a curiou• white glittering quality.

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

Thus is here the lead also in i•s fall, and bleak, after the heavenly impression which the Highest hath so indued, that
Page 97
it subject to other metals, and is the supream Finer in the ••tial Fruits of others. It easily mingleth naturally 〈◊〉 other metals, and the qualities of other oars, toge∣•• with the leaves, bulk and roots into other stones of 〈◊〉: And Saturn in his degree and power is the Highest, 〈◊〉 singular division of all his works, in which he sheweth •elf in a clarified transparent soul, runneth into Anti∣•y with its sweetnesse, which should meerly imbrace gold; this is done so, not without a cause; for in its derosity it yieldeth the lightest remedy to all melan∣•ly and heavy blood. As heavenly astrals are several, 〈◊〉 clouds under them are of all sorts of colours; so the 〈◊〉 lead is purer and more malleable than others, as that •ngland and at Ʋillach it is seen in the Lead-stones also. •or lead-oars which are mixed with other stones, espe∣••ly with such as contain silver, iron, copper, yield much •ight stones, and lead work, which are pickt out for se∣•ting, and the rather if they are rich of gold. Such wor∣• metals there are in Hungary, lesse pains are taken about •m in their fining. Mineral flints with their unripe juy∣•• in the weak joynings of Lead oar unite the Saturnal•sse; if without any mixture affords to Potters a green •zure, if all be not melted into lead: but if you get a •ttle mixed flint, there the glasse is half upon iron, and •h that are most pliable afford melting glasse for fining 〈◊〉 such sturdy wild oar, which will not melt. Artists •y prepare such Saturnal glasse, mingling with it a small •ntity of metalline flower, which will look as fair as if were a natural one. There may be extracted from lead effectual medicine for mans health.

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

Man cannot well be without any of his members; me∣•lls, according to Gods ordinance are of the same quality, 〈◊〉 man knew to make good use of them, for nature hath
Page 98
provided richly for him in that way: if men work t•• ignorantly, what utility can they have of them? Of metalline soul is made a chain, which linketh togethe• junctures of gold and silver: these are indued with a •¦cial spirit, which is distilled into a water through a tr•¦parent head; Nature congealeth under ground in the ••¦sages such water unto ice, for a signe, that there is at h•• a vein of lead, and silver, or of pure lead, and if thereb• mixture of other metal about it, it is the better.

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

CHAP. VIII. Of Tin, its oar, operation, mist, stocks, floats, fallings, and striking passages.
TIn oar is wrought in a sand-stone, having its influenc• from Jupiter above, wrought of a dark brown, purpl• coloured, grayish, black shining mercurial salt, and som• sulphur mixed with it, interlined with an unkind gross• sulphureous fume, all these incorporate together, makin• up the body of Tin: this unkind fume is the cause of th• brittlenesse of Tin, and maketh all other metals that ar• melted with it unkinde and brittle. This Tin or Q•i•• groweth or breaketh in a threefold manner, viz it slideth it is full of fumes, and it groweth in pieces: It hath 〈◊〉 threefold wildnesse also, as Shoel, flint, and iron-mould which causeth Lead-work; their colours are black, slate,
Page 99
brown, and yellow. These sand and Qwitter oars are invi∣•ned, or inclosed in mighty broad standing passages, which ••pear to the day with Qwitters; some contain also rich •int work; some of these flints must be calcined, some •e mixed with store of Talk and Cat-silver, which is a food to Qwitter, & loveth to stay there, some there are which •oweth in a Glimmer or Cat-silver, and is iron-moul'd, o∣•ers also do strike in a fire stone or flint, so that fire must 〈◊〉 applied thereunto, others are in a soft stone, and as it •ere swimmeth along. Some are richer than others. That •hich groweth pure, and in black small stones, and heap∣•• together that natural work, that giveth the greatest •in. And because Jupiter is the potent Lord of it, there∣••e it hath a mighty throne and seat, that is, a mighty huge ••ne-oar, out of which Tin is made by heaps, and is of ••t nature and property that it presseth outward, and •ossometh to the day, thrusteth off Soap-work, whence •me the wash work of Tin-soap: For Qwitter doth not •ow in the sand of earth, besides in its body it is removed ••her from the seat of its throne to the foot-stool, ma∣•th for itself a twofold dominion, in one it bordereth and ••cheth to slates aad other stones that lie about it; inso∣•ch that his dominion increaseth, in which is not a little, •t much, on the blue stones, fallings, floats, passages, •ools and clifts, which incline one upon another, and do •n; many times a mighty Tin-stone is wrought, which ••keth down among its own cinder and slate, and at its •king purgeth it self, and there come other fumes like •uds, which at all sides shoot into, and then breaketh a∣••n as good as ever it did before; and it is of that good ••ndition, that it despiseth no lodging, nor passeth by any, •t as poor and as despicable the stone is in that place, be •ed, brown, fresh, or stale, broad or small, it will press •o, and mingle it self with it, and will not be forced out 〈◊〉 it, making it self great, little, grosse, milde, fame, sub∣••e and pliable, even as the rest will have it, and all this, in natural way; it loveth to border upon silver and iron-stone,
Page 100
that Tin and iron be united in a mighty fix silver and copper oar; all which are found at their several marks. Tin oar is in this place better and malleable, if found afar off from flint-passages, and are less mingled with iron mould, e∣specially of copper stones, which in calcining can hardly be separated, proves Lead-work, without any fair glasse.

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

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

Mercury sheweth its vertue in many things admirably, and worketh effectually upon Minerals and Metalline sul∣phur, and upon such which border upon Antimonial stones or oars; it loveth to be in such places where the Tin-oars lie higher than silver passages. It requireth many iterating effectual operations unto other oars, and is multiplied up∣on other strange stones, and is drawn through the juyces of Minerals and metals, which are in affinity one to another,
Page 101
sever•• produce many strange miscreants; this is the reason •y it is so pleasant unto metals, Goldsmiths amalgame and 〈◊〉 with it.

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

CHAP. X. Of Wismuth, Antimony, Sulphur, Salt, Sal∣peter and Talk
WIsmuth is wrought in its own Mine-stone, not quite freed from a protruding silver, or Tin stone, of an imperfect pure quick-silver with Tin-salt, and fluid silver-sulphur of a brittle immiscible earth, partly of a
Page 102
crude fluid sulphur, partly of a mixed much exiccated s••¦phur, according as it hath gotten a matrix, after it was c••¦ceived: then it turneth a bastard of a brittle nature, ea•• uniteth with Mercury, and is wrought naturally in a tw•¦fold form, the one is fluid and metalline, is melted with 〈◊〉 wood, being mixed wi•h clay, yieldeth much of white A••¦nick. The other is small streaked, or spissie, remaineth 〈◊〉 unripe substance, yields a fix sulphur instead of Arsenic• both these are silver Wismuth.

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

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

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

Page 103
Talk is an ingrown sulphur, shineth incombustibly like •ld and silver, closeth and boweth, is transparent like ••sse, is called Sulphur, Lutum, keepeth in the fire incom∣••stible, like Alumen plumosum, lyeth in Rocks and stone-•orks, serveth for graduating of metals. Every metal, •ineral and salt in particular is good to be used, each is ••stinguished in its particular name: even as those that •ake glasses, put their several names upon them, and put ••eir several forms upon them, making them into drink∣••g glasses, flagons, bodies, bolt heads, helmets, recei∣•ers, pellicans, jar-glasses, wine-glasses, funnels, all ••ese he frameth after his own fancie, either into ••all, great, long, or round forms, even as he plea∣•eth.

CHAP. XI. A comparison between Gods word and the Mine∣ralls.
LIke as the heavenly glorious God in a spiritual way, in his most dearest Son our Lord JESUS CHRIST, at his redeeming of man-kinde for the good of man ap∣peared a Sun of righteousnesse, which glory the Prophet Esaias hath prophesied of in the Lords spirit many years ago: How two Cherubims and Seraphims having six wings, moved and sung before the Lord: Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Zebao•h, of whose glory all the world is full, which Prophet hath seen the most omnipotent Lord of Lords, knowing him a God in a Triple essence, and that out of that noble Chaos of Jesus Christ should flow the fountain of life of mercie and righteousnesse, which the Lord God made ap∣parent on the Tree of the holy Crosse, where out of the side of his dearest Son did run bloud and water, to which the Lord in the Revelation of St. John addeth, fire, smoak, and
Page 104
fumes this union according to the Divine Word is grown at the beginning in all creatures, and what ever God the Holy Trinity hath ever created, consisteth in a Trinity, even as the Deity is in an eternal Trinity; As the Deity is indivisible in the Humanity, α & ω, in the water and blood for an eternal remembrance, that is, the fi•st and the last letter: as in the Heavenly, even so in the earthly, the per∣fect Alphabet must not be cut asunder, all must stand from the beginning to the end; and Christ Jesus purgeth his dear friends still unto eternal life through water and blood, saying to their hearts, all thy sins are forgiven thee, thy faith doth save thee. No man is saved, unlesse he be fi•st born again, that is, through water & blood, which through∣ly purgeth not only men and the sons of men, but also the whole Limbus upon earth; for it is not the metalline blood and water, neither is it Mercery and Sulphur that doth it, neither in the body under ground is any goldish silver wrought to any blood red oar, the blood out of Christ side shed for the good of man, is that great evidence for thus all Mineral stones, that are in the plain element of earth, and the spirit of all oars and marbles and stones come from the divine essence, as also the heavenly spirits for the throne of God, with the heavenly Angels and Sp•∣rits are furnished for rhe praise of God: thus the earth al∣so is created is her stones, oars, ve•ns, passages, for the ho∣nour of God, and the welfare of man, which imitateth Gods wisdome, filled with infi•ite and uncessant forth-bringing of fruits.

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

Why doth Saint John in his Revelation speak of smoak and of fume? Surely he did not mean the fire, smoak, and fume of Bakers ovens, or Kitchin-chimneys, but there was revealed unto him the heavenly fire, the mist, vapour, and
Page 105
fume, which is exhaled from the moisture of earth, and ••ated to the clouds: so in the subterranean works the ••e and spoil, or outside of the oar are sublimed, and the 〈◊〉 of the frost which rouzeth the effectual powers, va∣•rs and spirits maketh them come to a perfect unity in ••alline bodies. Now if there were not a fire & vaporous ••e in the earth, how could they produce their fruits, •ich are the minerals and metals under ground?

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

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

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

Page 106
It is feaseable, that of gold may be prepared a singul•• Medicine for the good of man-kinde, because man is cre•¦ted of God from Limus terrae, and the whole earth is 〈◊〉Limus, such another Medicine all the Doctors are not abl• produce, which is of a curious sweet fragrancy, standi•• distinct in two lights, and must needs be in rerum natur• because it was brought on God his Altar, for an offering b• mans art prepared, and suffer'd it to be extinguished None knoweth what it is, neither we literated Docto• know the preparation of it, who when their Confectio• Syrups, Herbs and Potions will do no good, and are in d•¦spair, then they might willingly run to Metals, which f••¦merly they made conscience to make use of them in the Oyntmenis and Plaisters; of this I make mention in a r•¦verend remembrance for true rational myners. Out of go•• and silver are joyned not onely gold and silver monies a• other plates for mans use, but they serve for mans use in m•¦ny other things: and after the first metals vertue, there co•• others also more and more very effectual, even to the l•• of metals.

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

Page 107
CHAP. XII. How precious Stones and Jewels are wrought, and how God hath bestowed blessings upon those that work the Mynes.
•Ewels are wrought out of the substance of the most perfect, transparent, and noblest earthlinesse, with mixture of the noblest Mercury, Sulphur and Salt, ••thout any fume, or moist matter: are of a dry coagula∣••n, and commonly are engendred in a round form in •eir dwellings, lodgings, stocks, and passages, fixedly •und together: some are of a transparent lustre, o∣•ers are more dark; and they have their several co∣••rs.

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

Pygmees, or Homunculi, which in former times lived in •llow oars of Mynes, these could not want skill in •th wayes, having traversed and travelled up and down 〈◊〉 these slippery corners and wayes The places and •uation of such Jewels lying somewhat nearer unto ••aven, in the Eastern Countreys, bordering on Para∣•ce, so there must needs be abounding in Gold and Jewels,
Page 108
and such pretious vegetables, which our thoughts hard• may reach unto. God requireth no more of man, whom 〈◊〉 intrusteth with these things, but to be faithful and just, an• is an argument for us to think that for the same cause pic•• Kings and Princes, and the old wise Partiarchs were gift• from above to bear a love to search into Mine-works, a•• did it with an uprightnesse and judgement. Let hon•• godly Christian Miners chuse the better part, and learn 〈◊〉 know the pearl, the spirit of the Lord proceeding out 〈◊〉 Gods own mouth, and let them consider well their eterna• fixation, to return their love again to him that hath love them first, bringing all things to their subjection, he impa••¦eth all unto them abundantly in grace and mercy, & by th• innocence and merit of his only son, bestoweth on the• temporal and eternal blessings, and puts more glorious o•¦naments on them, and better than ever gold, silver, jewe• and pearls were adorned withall.

CHAP. XIII. Of the essence of Gold, which is abundantly found, not only in the metal, but Mineral also, whose energ• is shewed most rarely, and a short closing of my first and second Part of Minerals and metals 〈◊〉 annexed.
THis Chapter is a breviary of all mineral colours & form• how they after an heavenly operation are daily clad i• the metalline prime matrix, and set forth in their sever•• works, whereas there shineth forth unto us the eternal lig•• of the lustrous Sun, the deity, of the day of joyes, and 〈◊〉 the eternal most fixed and fairest Sol, as also of a most ye•¦low, pure, red, and fixed citrin colour of heavens etern•• lightning, and the most glorious paradise of all the Sta•• a natural created light for all creatures, besides the bea••
Page 109
and Aurora of Mineral Earths, and of their subtilest, com∣•t, and best binding inclosed, speaking to all other white •inged Metals; I, Sol, of an essential being am Lord of •rds in power, might, and perfection, I overcome all, and •vercome and bring them into subjection, and none of •m can master me, but I do conquer them all, they are •ject to me, and to my Bei•g, for my Kingdome is esta∣•hed with infinite and invincible Power and Dignity; by 〈◊〉 all metals, minerals, animals. & vegetables are strength∣•ed and rectified; for I give to every one that knoweth 〈◊〉 in my green, blue, and red Nature, all what I have, 〈◊〉 all what he desireth, I cause to drop down after the •r cardinal streams of Pison, Gihon, the noblest substance 〈◊〉 Mercury, in the form of a most pure transparent crystal∣•e water, and the most noble substance of Sulphur, of Hi∣•el and Phrath the clearest fairest Astral salt from a Vitri∣• salt, which through all Mines flew upward very fruit∣•ly, and penetrates all the mineral stones. I alone gradu∣•e and exalt the silver, unto Lune I give light and lustre in 〈◊〉 righteousnesse, of my vertue do spe k all Magi, Natu∣•ists, and Scribes all the world over, from the East to the •est, I am the Lord over the heavenly clarified garments •d colours, I adorn the firmament, the weather, I cloath •e Rainbow after Gods will, I exalt all jewels, all such •owths and creatures, and what I cannot inwardly walk •rough and reach unto in my course, I leave it to be per∣•cted with my friend and lover the Lune, she receiveth the ••st part of me, and of the subtilest an abundance, the In∣••s, Hungarie, Carinthia testifieth the same, for all what is 〈◊〉 live, and is to receive a life, rejoyceth in me, and next •od, in none else, for to him honour and glory belongs •ely after him, I finde no higher Lord and Commander∣•• for my part I do not rest, neither do I desire any rest, do •y office readily into which my Creatour hath placed me, 〈◊◊〉 my plyablenesse be found gloriously, like a vvax in •ones, which have by reason of hardnesse fire enough, if •ed.

Page 110
I am hid from unwise men, and am ready to be discern• by men of understanding. I am predominant abundant• in a well known Mineral, as also in Mars and Venus whic• are of low degrees: in them I lye hid also, all these have 〈◊〉 double spirit, well known unto Lune, pleasant to her, an• next unto her. Hence God suffered Moses to erect a bras• Serpent, in the desert after my colour, in hearkning un•• the people, at the mount Sinai. My best and fairest c•¦lour appeareth in transparent juyces, as vitriol, which af••• my condition in due time penetrateth Oars, whereby the• grew rich in lust, & are train'd up in a pleasant form con•¦ded into a greennesse, like sealing wax, green like Goo• dung, blew like Saphir, and so forth, sometimes of th• colour of a water flint: my red and whi•e colour is the best which are heartily wish'd for. I love to be kindled i• vitriol, and further is after descension in its green food, unto a deep red spirit, after whose laxative purging co∣meth that expected aqua Saturni, the true a•ide-Well: fro• whence I my self and all other Metals, animals and vege∣tables have my off-spring and life. For Metals and Mine∣rals rise onely from thence, have their beginning and ori∣ginal from it, for it is that quickning water, which ordi∣nary Myners do not know of, is known onely to Philoso∣phers. It worketh Minerals and Metals in several wayes, in form of taps which did skept, pure, white, compact, found like purified Suggar, in a blue slate-work. An extraordi∣nary pleasant Mineral for all colours. Salt Oars are at a farther distance, which by my attractive changing, are found in floats, blocks and passages, which in many places bring the water unto the day-light, so that it often is found a pure and dry Salt above ground, of glassie light flames, o• in a great frost like unto flocks of snow, there shooteth a brittle, glassie light stone, wrought in great pieces: in the same order are all other Jewels according to mine inlight∣ned heavenly stone, distributed among their operations, worths and vertues, and clarified in a most fix'd transpa∣rency, and indewed with an everlasting spirit, distinct i•
Page 111
s•••ral colours, as Diamond, Smaragds, Carbuncles, Saphirs, ••ies, Chrystals, Chalcedonian, Jaspis, Berill, Chrysolith, ••x, Carmel, Turkois, Lazur-stone, Margarits, Coralls, •ra Lemnia, Terpentine-stones, and Garnats, of deeper 〈◊〉 colours, each in its heavenly colours order is transpa∣••, and naturally is created, and preserved in its own of∣•a: Hence it may be argued, that all these together with ••d fruits serve for mans good, both for his body and spi∣•• for nothing is hid from my transparent power, my splen∣•• and lustre over-shadoweth all these, and are held to •ir growing unto maturity: let no creatures marvel at ••se several distinctions from whence they all should •ne, for all have their principle from me, & frō my spirit, •ich is hidden in me, which none can dive into, save the 〈◊〉 creator of all things, from whom it proceeded as out •his Divine mouth. Thus I close up my speech, and my 〈◊〉 startle at so great a mystery, and attest in truth for a •ewell, that I am not onely the Gold and present Sol, but •e also strength and power to all the inferies terrene spi∣••: for Aristeus and Onizon is in subjection unto me, for I 〈◊〉 α and 〈☐〉, God be praised for ever.

Thus I conclude the second part of my Mineral book, •erein I have shewed faithfully as much as I know, and ••ld in my industry apprehend: let others do their en∣•avours also, let them produce their knowledge also, that 〈◊〉 light of the noble nature may still be supply'd in her ••nitude, and may not go out, whereby cause would be ••en to the enemy and envious men, to be outragious ••inst such truths. Let God still and uncessantly be im∣••tuned with prayers and thanks-giving. For these ends •ave written these my two Treatises, and annexed the •nuals at the beginning (which otherwise needed not to 〈◊〉 done) that by earnest prayer and thanksgiving, and con∣••ued earnest worshipping of God, every one might care∣••ly exercise himself therein, and be convinced in his ••ason, how gloriously almighty God hath created, or∣••ined and held forth nature, to perform her operations
Page 112
under ground, and to produce unto the day light form•• their Nativities and fruits, that we may reap thereby 〈◊〉 onely our sustenance, but may acknowledge Gods infin• mercy and goodnesse, for which none can return sufficie• thanks. However let every one do his duty, and as mo• as he is able to perform with his heart and tongue, pray God is sincerity for his grace, blessing and wisdom, t• conceive by his spirit of truth and righteousnesse of his great and wonderfull Creature, that the honour of God maybe exalted above the Heaven, and be proclaimed with infinite praise through∣out all the World.

End of the second Part.

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

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

LONDON, Printed Anno Domini, MDCLVI.


Page 15

---

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

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

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

Page 116
Note, that all things proceed from a heavenly influenc• elementall operation, earthly substance, from this mix••• arise the 4. Elements, water, aire, earth, which engender h•• the help of fire, hid therein, in a warm digestion, produci•• a Soul, Spirit, and Body. These are the three prime pri•¦ciples, which in a coagulation come to a Mercury, Sulph• and Salt, these three being in conjunction, according to th• nature of the seed produce a perfect bodie; be it in th• Kingdom, either of Minerals, Animals, or Vegetables. A• things in the world, that are visible and palpable, are d••¦vided into these three Kingdoms: the Animal which co•¦tains such that have a lively breath, composed of flesh an• bloud, as men, beasts, worms, fishes, fowls. The Vege¦tables which contains trees, herbs, seeds, roots, fruits, an• all such things that are of a growing quality, the Minera• contains all manner of Oars, Metals, Minerals, Marcas•• Calxes, Zincks, Lobol's, all sorts of flints, peebles, wismuth• stones, precious ones and others.

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

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

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

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

Page 117
If you will transmute Metals, augment them, bring •em into a tincture, or Philosophick stone, you must first •derstand, how you may destroy by a spagyrick Art, the •etalline and Mineral form and separate it into a Mercury, ••lphur and Salt, these three must be purely separated, and ought to their first principles.

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

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

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

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

He that learneth to know exactly this golden seed, or •his Magnet, and searcheth throughly into its properties, ••e hath then the true root of life, and may attain unto that, ••is heart longeth for. In my former writings, as also in the XII. Keyes from the first to the last I ordered thus my stile 〈◊〉 writing, wherein I held forth unto posterity the •ra∣ctick, how the great stone of Philosophers, or the best pu∣rified
Page 118
gold may be made out of Sulphur and Salt, with 〈◊〉 help of the spirit of Mercury, which must be drawn from crude unmelted Minera, according to the Tenor of my fi•• Key set down in a parabolical manner.

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

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

Those that are endued with deeper wits and know∣ledge, and in their hearty and carefull endeavours strive further to dive in the Art, will meet in the same place with a more easie and more known matter, which almost w•• named and set down, of an effectual quality, out of which in like manner, as the ancients before me, in their exac•• speculation and practick have in the end better known the
Page 119
onely scope and drift, which hath been practised several ••s by me also, in a shorter time, and lesse pains taking, 〈◊〉 they and I have obtained health and riches: in this •wn and despicable matter and Mineral substance is ••d a sulphur and tincture more effectual, and more wor∣•• than the best Gold can afford, which is fluid and open, ••its Mercurial spirit also, and its mystical Salt is free and ••n, whose vertues may with lesse pains in a visible man∣•• be drawn from it.

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

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

The first Key informeth you, that if you seek for the ••ed in a Metalline body, as in the Gold, then before all ••ings it must most exactly be purged from all its impure •eprosie, and that nothing must be mix'd with our Foun∣•ain, but such, which is of a pure spermatick quality. This •urifying is perform'd with Antimony, which stands in a •ear relation, and affinity unto Gold, which is the reason,
Page 120
why antimonial sulphur purgeth the Soul of Gold, gradu•¦ting the same to a very high degree. On the other-side, 〈◊〉 Gold can meliorate in a short time the Soul of Antimo• and can bring it to a firm fixation, exalting Antimony 〈◊〉 Gold to an equal dignity and vertue, and can be broug•• not onely unto a white Metal of Lune, but also to a tra•¦scendent Medicine for mans health, of which you sh•• have a further direction hereafter, when I shall treat in p••¦ticular of Antimony. Al•hough Antimony hath promise unto Saturn a sociable brother-hood, because Antimony qualification doth rest in some sort on the quality of Satur• in an equal concordance, yet after the fixation of the ex¦alted Sulphur of Antimony, his next friend Saturn canno• get any prey from him, because the King received him int• his golden Palace, and make him partaker of his trium∣phing Kingdom. This is the reason, why he can endur• now heat and frost, and overcomes it, and standeth with the King a Conquerour in great and transcendent glory.

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

The second Key.
MY Friend, note, and take that into a serious conside∣ration, because the chiefest point lyeth herein; cause a Balneum be made, let nothing come into it, which should
Page 121
nor be there, that the noble seed of the Gold fall not into •estructive and irrecoverable opposition after its destru∣•on, and take an exact and carefull view of such things, ••ich my second Key informeth thee of, namely what mat∣•• you ought to take to the Kings Balneum, whereby the •ng is destroyed, and its external form broken, and its ••defiled Soul may come forth, to this purpose will serve ••e Dragon and the Eagle, which is Niter and Sal armonick,••th which after their union are made into a Aquafort, as ••u shall be further informed of in my Manuals, where I ••all treat in particular of Gold, of other Metals and Mine∣••ls, into which Balneum the King is thrown, being first, 〈◊〉 in the quoted place you shall hear, brought into an Amal∣•me of Mercury and of Sulphur, which presently seizeth on •im, corrodeth all his members, and is dissolved, and is •resently mortified of this Salt water into a most splendent •ransparent Oyl. You must note, that this dissolution is •ot sufficient, and the King is not minded as yet to let go •is Soul out of his fixed body, which you can see when you •eparate the water from the dissolved body of the King, where you shall finde fixed powder of Gold, out of which you will hardly get his Soul that is therein. Therefore follow my counsel and bear the yoake, which I bore before •ye, and learn to know exactly in pains taking, further thus, as I shall inform you. Having dissolved your Gold wholly in the said water, and brought it into a pleasant yellow Oyl, then let it stand well luted for a day and night in a very gentle Balneum Mariae, the feces which are setled, must be separated from it, then take this pure dissolution, put it into a well coated body, or Retort, apply a Helmet to it, with a receiver, in the best manner luted to it, set it into a sand Capel, drive the Gold with the water over the Helmet, ite∣rate this a third time, then abstract the water in Balneum Mariae, you will finde a fair Gold-powder, keep this in a glasse for an hour in fire, let the remaining humidity be drawn from it.

Page 122
The third Key.
THen take of good spirit of Sal-niter one part, and of d••¦phlegmed spirit of ordinary Salt, three parts, pour the• spirits together warm'd a little, into a body on the for• written Gold-powder, lute a Helmet and Receiver to i• drive the Gold over as formerly in sand several times wi•• an iterated distillation, the oftner the better, let the Go•• come to be volatile more and more, and at last let all co•• over. By this repeated driving over, its fixed body is di∣vided, all its Members are torn asunder and opened, an• leaveth willingly its Soul to a special Judge, of which m• third Key will give sufficient information.

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

He that hath some knowledge herein, may make this
Page 123
quere: whither this extracted dry Soul and Sulphur of the ••g be just that Soul, of which Philosophers have this •ng: the Philosophick work for the preparation of the ••t precious stone requireth three things, viz. a wet vola∣• Mercury, or a Mercurial spirit, a wet volatile sulphurous ••l, and a dry astral Salt, which after its dissolution toge∣•• with the two first must be apparent and known in a •erish form; which way comes that about, because in 〈◊〉 processe nothing is spoken of any Mercurial spirit and •atile Soul, but the Soul of the King appeared in a sub∣•• form of powder? The answer hereunto I delay so long 〈◊〉 the Querist learns better to understand the distinction in •s book, and I will perform my promise, and set his •xious and intangled minde at liberty, which is so much •ubled about this doubt, and will deal with him as a •od father may deal with his son; in and with this scope, •herein our Mastery lieth; have been fooled most of the •its, leading them captive in their erroneous wayes, being ••d about in a desart of mislead wayes, because in their ••pposed deep wits, they had not conceived so much of the •anner, how all things of the world are generated, and that •very spirit must have a Soul, and every Soul a fit spirit, and •hat both spirit and Soul are spirits and spiritual, which must •ave a body, in which they may have a dwelling.

Gold and Silver, but chiefly Gold is brought to the highest fixednesse, by such degrees as nature did afford, insomuch •ts nature is found very hot and fiery, freed from all phleg∣matick humidity, of which Lune is not so wholly freed, though she hath obtained a sulphur-fixed degree, and stay∣eth for the King, to warm her cold body with his hot seed, which concerns the particulars, and belongs unto them, which in that place shall be plainly demonstrated. In Gold there is no waterish humidity at all, unlesse it were reduced again into Vitriol, which would be but an uselesse and un∣profitable work, and would require huge expences, in case the Philosophers stone should be of Vitriol of Gold, of which there must be had great store; indeed in that Vitriol
Page 124
there would be found a convenient spirit, which natu•• would desire, of a white quality, as also a Soul and Salt of glorious essence.

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

The solar Mercury Sol, being never brought so far un¦destruction, neither did the ancient Philosophers ever mak• use of that way, as being a thing clean contrary unto na¦ture, containeth indeed an humidity, but it is a meer Ele¦mental waterish humidity after its dissolution, and good fo• nothing, water and other principles do not stand in the Ele¦ments, but the Elements rest in the principles and seeds o• Metals, of the which I have spoken formerly. Therefore let none be so over witty, as to make our stone onely of dry and fully digested Gold: because its phlegmatick humidity is entred into a dry fixednesse and fixed coagulation, which is not found so in other Metals, though they also are sub∣ject to a hard coagulation and passed through the fire, yet are not wholly digested, nor brought to a full maturity from the natural original root: which ought to be taken no∣tice of; and be not offended at my former writings if they seem to run contrary against this.

Though I have shewed, that the spirit, Soul, and body come all from one Metalline essence, and must be prepared thus, among which I held the Gold to be the best, however I dealt herein as it seemed fit for a Philosopher, the like the ancient Philosophers have done before me, but I hope you took notice of my protestation, that I gave special cause thereby to your speculation, to take the better notice of na∣ture and her principle, and to consider the original, because it was not meet for me to inform all men, how the doors are bolted within, and especially at that time, when I never intended to write thus plainly of these things, which are hid even from the best of men, but when my heavenly Prince
Page 125
commanded, at the changing of my minde, not to bury the ••rted talent, but to do the like to those, whom God •ks worthy, to leave it to them. One rule more I must 〈◊〉 to thy remembrance, of such points, which formerly I •e set down, of which I spoke now, that you may the •e blame me, as if I did refuse these things now, which I •merly wrote of.

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

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

The obduration being so great among the covetous, that for the most part they search and dive into such mysteries out of meer covetousnesse, pride, and ambition, made the ancient Philosophers upon command and inspiration of the highest aim at that, as to put a certain stay to their hands, and to write of such mysteries in such a manner, that unwor∣thy men should not understand it, and but worthy men onely in their illumination might perceive it: and writing
Page 126
often one thing, have mingled other among, understa•¦ing still the one and the same. In several places t•• shewed, that the Philosophers stone is, and comes from 〈◊〉 animal, others from a vegetable seed, and a third sort sai• it comes from a Mineral seed: others write that stone made of an animal, vegetable, and Mineral seed togeth•• All this is onely understood of the Mineral and Metalli• seed, and consisteth not in any plurality of seeds. Hence t•• Art grew eclipsed, insomuch that scarce one among ma• thousands hardly attaineth unto the knowledge thereo• and for that reason is it held for an Art, because not eve• Booby should bring it into his Beetle-head, and why shou•• it? For if this Art were as common as brewing of Beer, a•• baking of Bread, then any one may judge what good cou•• be look'd for, would not all manner of vices be practise• publickly without any controlling.

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

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

Therefore it is requisite that you know, how to infuse your golden seed into the new body, and to bring it to a
Page 127
fluid substance: look about thee, and see where you may •e it: if you finde none, despair not, but be of good •fort, think upon means, and ask counsel of god Saturn,•ill not let thee go without a resolve, he will put into hand a deep glittering Minera for an offering, which in Myne is grown of the first matter of all Metals, if this •era after its preparation, which he will shew unto thee, 〈◊〉 into a strong sublimation, mixed with three parts of •e, or tyle meal, then riseth to the righest mount a noble •imate, like little feathers, or alumen plumosum, which due time dissolveth into strong and effectual water, ••ch bringeth thy seed in a little putrefaction very sudden∣••nto the first volatility, if so be there be added to it a 〈◊〉 quantity of water, that it may be dissolved therein, there 〈◊〉 twig with the bulk doth unite, that they are able to •end above the highest mountain, and stay inseparably ••ether a Soul and Spirit, or a Spirit and Soul.

It is requisite, that you be stored with water for the body 〈◊〉 Salt to dissolve the same also, and coagulate the same in∣• a new clarified body, which will never part asunder, nei∣••r in love nor woe, because they are of one nature, nati∣•y, and original, and have been so from the beginning. ••r they all have their beginning and birth from the power 〈◊〉 this volatile bird. But remember well that these Mineral •irits are in other Metals also, and are found effectual in ••e Mineral, from whence with more ease and lesse charges 〈◊〉 may be had: the businesse is onely herein, that you learn to •ow, what this Mercurial spirit, Mercurial Soul, & astral Salt 〈◊〉 that the one may not be taken in stead of the other, which •ould cause a huge errour. You will finde, that the nature •f the golden sulphur consisteth onely in all Metals, which ••e comprehended among the red, and have a fellow domi∣•ion with other Minerals, by reason of the fiery tinging •pirits, but the magnetick power and its quality resteth in •s white Mercurial spirit, which bindeth the Soul, and dis∣•olveth the body, therefore the Astrum of Sol is found not •nely in Gold, that with the addition of the spirit of Mer∣curie
Page 128
and the Solar Salt onely the Philosophers stone c•• be made, but may in like manner be prepared artifici•• out of Copper and Steel, two immature Metals, both w•• as male and female have red tinging qualities, as wel• Gold it self, whither the same be taken out of one al•• or out of both, being first entred into an Union. Besi•• this Mineral in our Mothers tongue is a Mineral, called ••¦per water, and of broken, or digged Verdigreece, or Cop•• there can be made a Vitriol, in all which is found glori••¦ly a Soul of the best Gold, and come well to passe very p•¦fitably many wayes, no Countrey clown can believe• Therefore note here, what you ought to observe, int• thy thoughts, and give not over, unlesse you be come• far, that you know natures mystical conjunction and her 〈◊〉 solution, then you will finde, what is requisite for you 〈◊〉 know, and return thanks unto thy Creator, make use of• for his glorie, and be beneficial to the needy.

This white spirit is the true Mercury of Philosophe• which hath been before me, and will be after me, with•• which the Philosophers stone, and the great mystery can 〈◊〉 made, neither universally nor particularly, much lesse a pa••¦cular transmutation. And this spirit is the Key to the ope•¦ing of all Metals, and their locking in again. This spirit is 〈◊〉 sociable unto all Metals, because they have their desce• from his sanguinity, as you heard often. For he is that tr•primum mobile, sought of many thousands, and found 〈◊〉 none, and yet all the World is greedy of it, is sought 〈◊〉 far off, and found near at hand, he is and moveth befo• the eyes of all men, for if this spirit be fed with a Metalli•• sulphur and Salt, of these three there will be one matt• made, not much unlike to the Philosophers great ston• however duely must be proceeded in, and a true proces• from the beginning to the end must be observed: for th•• corporal Salt must be dissolved into this spirit, dissolve• turn'd, and brought into its prima materia, as the spirit hi• self is: then both these of one equal descent and birth b• means of fire with coagulating of the spirit may be gen•¦rated
Page 129
a third time to a firm fixation, and to a pure trans∣•rent white clarified body, thē after this accomplished al∣•o the Soul, which is dissolved, must seek for her rest again, •netrate such a pure body, unite with the same, and rise 〈◊〉 dwelling therein, that these three be permanent and •iding constantly in one body eternally clarified.

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

Therefore take your Solar earth, out of which you drew •ur seedr, or the true Lions bloud, and reduce it by rever∣••rating to a fix'd powder, and subtile impalpable ashes, ••tract from thence a very subtile Salt, as bright as Ivory 〈◊〉 hereafter I will teach you in the Manuals, how the body 〈◊〉Sol is anatomized by the particulars, and to bring it into Sulphur, Salt, and Mercury. Then proceed unto the pra∣••ck and conjunction, and have a care, that you be pro∣•dent therein, that at their conjunction you do not too ••ch to the one, and too little to the other, take notice 〈◊〉 the quantity, and observe exactly the division of the
Page 130
〈1 page duplicate〉
Page 133
〈1 page duplicate〉
Page 130
seeds, hereunto minister a certain measure, and mark 〈◊〉 sixth Key, then proceed in the begun processe, accordin• to the order of the seventh, eighth, ninth, and tenth K•• as formerly I had informed you about it, go on with it 〈◊〉 the appearance of the Kings honour and glory, to 〈◊〉 highest purple garment, and pure golden piece, who is c••¦led the Triumphing Lord and Conquerour over all his su•¦jects, from the East to the West; which if you have attain• unto them, return thanks to God, be fervent in praying, 〈◊〉 mindfull of the poor, be a student unto sobriery, temp•¦rance, abstinence, and above all unto taciturnity: for it the greatest and most hainous sin, to let unworthy m•• know of it.

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

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

Such Souls and goldish Sulphurs are found most effect• in Mars and Venus, as also in Vitriol, and both Venus a••
Page 131
••ars can be reduced into a most effectual Vitriol, in which Metalline Vitriol afterward all the three principles, as Mer∣•ury Sulphur and Salt are found under one heaven, and with ••tle pains and short time each can be taken out of it apart, •s you shall hear, when I shall make further relation of the Mineral Vitriol which is digged in Hungary, of a high gra∣•ation. Now if you have wit and understanding, art in∣•lined and heartily desireth to conceive of the true mean∣•ng of my Keyes, and of my other writings, thereby to un∣•o•k the locks of Metals for our store, then you should have •aken notice and observed, that in all these I have written •ot onely of the Metal of Sol, of its Sulphur and Salt, but I •ave interlined and mingled also, and made uniformal other •ed Metals, from whence may be had the mystical Masterie:•herefore men ought to iterate often the reading of Philoso∣phick books, then a true sense and meaning may be drawn •rom them, which without divine illumination cannot be •either, &c.

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

The scope I aimed at in so doing, was not to hunt after any •ain glory, but rather, that Gods gracious provident good∣nesse might be held forth unto posterity, that the future ••ges might become seeing, and some of the posterities eyes might be kept open, and be helpfull unto their needy fellow Artist, and make them partakers of Gods graces and gifts. Though my minde be mightily perplexed, when I think ••on what I have done, because I write so plainly, not know∣•ng into whose hands after my departure these my writings
Page 132
may come: However, I hope, let them be what they will that they will remember, and lay to heart my faithfull warn∣ings inserted in my former and these present writings, tha• they deal with this book, and use it so, that they may giv• good accompt for it to Almighty God.

Touching further the Vitriol, I should make mention o• it in my Manuals, where I treat and write generally of Mi∣nerals: But it being such a singular Mineral, whose felio• whole nature doth not produce, besides, Vitriol before a•• others is of great affinity unto Metals, and is next ki• unto them, for out of all Metals there can be made a Vi∣triol, or Chrystal (Chrystal and Vitriol is taken for one) therefore I would not bereave it of its own praise, and put it• commendation too far off, but rather preferre it, as ther• is just cause, before other Minerals, and the first place, nex• to Metals should be given unto it; for (setting aside all Me∣tals and Minerals) this is sufficient to make the Philosopher• stone of it, which no other in the World can do the like though some particulariter are a help to further that work and Antimony alone is a sufficient Master hereunto, as i• its due place more shall be spoken of. However, none i• thus much dignified in its worthinesse, that the said Philo∣sophick stone could be made of it as this Vitriol is. There∣fore ancient Philosophers have concealed this Mineral a• much as ever they could, and would not reveal the same t• their own Children, that they should not divulge it in the World, but be kept secret, though they published, tha• such preparation is made out of one thing, and out of on• body, which hath the nature of Sol and Lune, and contain∣eth also the Mercury, wherein they said true enough, be¦cause it is so. But here I must admonish you, that you ma• turn this argument, and settle your thoughts wholly upo• Metalline Vitriols, because I intrusted you, that out of Ve¦nus and Mars there can be made an excellent Vitriol, where in are found the three principles for the generation of o•• stone, but you must further note also, that nevertheless• these three Metals, as Spiritus, anima, corpus are buried an•
Page 133
••d in a Mineral Vitriol, as in a Mineral it self. Understand •is according to the distinct natures of Vitriol. For the •est, which according to my experience shewed it self most •ffectual, herein is that, which is broken, and digged in •ungarie, of a very deep degree of tincture, not very unlike ••to a fair blue Saphir, having very little of humidities, and •ther additionals, or strange Oars: the oftner it is dissolved ••d coagulated, the more is it exalted in its deep tinging •olour, and is beheld with great admiration.

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

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

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

Now if you separate and free this expell'd spirit well and •ely, per modum distillation is, from its earthly humidity, •n in the bottom of the glasse you will finde the treasure, 〈◊〉 fundamentals of all the Philosophers, and yet known to
Page 134
none, which is a red Oyl, as ponderous in weight, as eve• any Lead, or, Gold may be, as thick as bloud, of a burning fiery quality, which is that true fluid Gold of Philosophers which nature drove together from the three principles wherein is found a spirit, soul, and body, and is that philoso∣phick Gold, saving one, which is its dissolution, during th• fire, and not subject to any corruptiblenesse, else it flie•• away with body and Soul, for neither water nor earth ca•• do it any hurt, because it received its first birth and begin¦ning from a heavenly water, which in due time is pou•• down upon the earth.

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

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

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

Page 135
Observe onely this difference, that the Salt must be drawn forth from the Mercurial body, as it hapned unto the Soul, with the spirit of Mercury; whereas on the other side the Salt of Gold must not be drawn forth with the saturnal water, because it is too weak for the body of Gold, but with a water, which hath been expressed in the description of particulars.

This distinction must be exactly observ'd, being of great concernment, because the Salt of Vitriol is not so strongly guarded, and is not in so fix'd a body, as the Gold is, but is still an open body, which saw no coagulation as yet, nor passed it through any melting fire, therefore that body ne∣ver came as yet to any compactnesse, there is room left for its own spirit to enter into, can embrace, and unite with its like, and a snow white extraction of Salt may be had, whereas on the other side a sharper matter must penetrate Gold, as you shall hear, when I shall speak more of it in its due place.

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

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

This is the thrift which so many have missed, and have
Page 136
written great volumes about it: for all what cometh from our Philosophick Gold, and hath divided it self into three parts, the same must be brought into one, without any losse and diminution, which is to enter into a new form again, and become a meliorated substance, & nothing of it must be done away, but onely the feces terrae in which the glorious Salt had its dwelling. Therefore do that I told you of, & joyn the spirit with the body, bring the body also into a spirit, dissolve & exalt it into the highest spiritual power, i• that dissolutiō the body turns to a spirit, & the spirit with the body uniteth and joyneth into one substance, that after the exchanging of all manner of colours, there cometh a white body like snow, transcending all whitenesses. This is the greatest mystery of this world, about which among the learned and supposed wits, such disputings in the world have been, that a palpable thing, and a visible one could be re∣duced into its prima materia, and out of that may be made again a new clarified and better substance, by the bounti∣full nature leading the way thereunto.

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

That you may bring and lead that new Philosophi•• Creature by the means nature afforded, unto the highest perfection, after which your heart with all her endeavours doth strive, then remember that neither man nor beas• without a living Soul can neither stir nor move: and as ma• here in this life, through temporal death loseth his Soul,
Page 137
offering the same again unto the Almighty God, from whom 〈◊〉 had it first, into his mercy and merits of Jesus Christ,•here after the departure of the Soul the dwelling, as the ••dy of it, is left quite dead, which is buried in the ground, •here it rotteth, and must return unto dust and ashes, being 〈◊〉 duly stipend, which the fall of our first parents in Paradise •we deserved, and from them, as by an inheritance is fall'n •pon us: after which putrefaction there are raised again on ••e great day new and clarified bodies, and the departed ••ul taketh her dwelling up again in that new body; after •at, there is no more parting of body nor spirit, nor soul: ••t because the Soul finding a clarified body, then with the ••me she maketh an everlasting Union, which neither De∣••l nor death can destroy and disjoyn any more, nor bring it •to any corruption, but from henceforth into all eternity •e are and shall: be like unto the best Creatures of God, •hich before our mortality and departure of the spirit, of ••e soul and the body could never be, God help and grant •nto us all a blessed resurrection. Amen.

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

Now if you will proceed well in your work, then joyn •he new body with his Soul, which you formerly drew ••om, that the compound in its vertue be compleat, and •here be apparent in the end a plusquam perfection of it: •hen is begotten the Red King of all glorie in a fiery sub∣•tance, and highly clarified body, exalted above all powers •pon earth, from thence ariseth the golden fountain, he
Page 138
that thinketh of it is renewed in all his Members, and there is rised wholly a new life: for the which God be prai∣sed for ever more.

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

The love to my Neighbour hath moved me to write of these things, which in my long experience I found to be true, following the steps of bountifull nature, which made me a Sooth-sayer in natural things, and I am assured, that if these my writings are made publick after my death, and my other books sharing in the same fortune, that they must undergo many censures. For some will extreamly condem• me, delivering me unto Satan, because I have written so plainly: Others there will be, which will quite overthrow my writings, crying out to be Lies, Superstition, and Dia∣bolical works, the like censure other illuminated men be∣fore me have undergone, which they feel to this day; for men are so incredulous in these points, that so mighty an operation should be found against all manner of infirmities, besides the transmutation of Metals in so despicable a mat∣•er, (over which the Iron Man with his espoused Wife Venus•ogether with the deep glittering Sol, is, and must have the •redominancie) and with incredible profit it should by •rt •e brought to such perfection. The Art being great, and •he matter so contemptible, it procureth the more doubt •nd unbelief: these unbelieving men I let understand one∣•y this notable example, whereby the eyes of those, that •re going unto Emaus, shall be opened, and thereby shall
Page 139
••owledge that I have written no untruth, but disclosed 〈◊〉 a truth very plainly. And note, that the ancient Phi∣••phers endeavoured to describe the preparation of the ••e under a notion of distilling of wine and the spirit ••eof, which in their work are almost like one to an∣•er. For I they taught out of the best wine to make a •it, without any strange phlegme, which to this day ••ng vulgar Artists must be, and is called the right and •e mystical spirit of wine, whereas it may soon be proved, •r this supposed spirit of wine containeth much invisible •midity, or phlegme, in an insensible manner, which is •hing else, but its vegetable Mercury: for the fiery spirit wine is the true fire and soul of the wine. Every Sulphur ••taineth secretly its original and principal Mercury: Ve∣•ables in their kinde, the Animals in their kinde, and 〈◊〉 Minerals also after their kinde. 2. They taught how •s spirit of wine must be separated in two distinct parts, •mely this spirit of wine be poured upon white calcined ••ar, and be drawn over in a gentle distillation. In this ••illation is separated the secret and true spirit of wine •m his Vegetable Mercury, as I faithfully informed you 〈◊〉 my Manuals. From the remainng earth they taught a •t be drawn, to be added to the rectified spirit, whereby 〈◊〉 is fortified and strengthned in his substance, and at last •e Philosopher stone should be generated! It is mightily •ainst Gods ordinance, that a Vegetable should produce 〈◊〉 Animal, or an Animal produce a Mineral. By way of •parable, the practice part is held forth under the notion 〈◊〉 this preparation. Now as they taught of the wine, so in ••e manner also through a short way our Gold can be pre∣•red, (not the usual and common Gold) and may be dis∣•lved, divided, separated, and brought into its first prin∣•ple.

But you must note, that this dissolution and separation •as never described plainly by any of the ancient Philoso∣•hers which lived before me, and knew the Magisterium,•hy I do it, the love to my Neighbour hath moved me
Page 140
thereunto, which I bear from the Center of my heart to those, which overcome this mystery without falshood, 〈◊〉 mingling vices with a faithfull heart, in a sincere kn••¦ledge and real piety. In the first place be inform'd, 〈◊〉 our Gold (so much spoken of hitherto) must never be ••¦ken for such Gold by any of our Disciples, which hath b• melted, and fully digested by nature, for herein such •¦rour is committed, that men dilapidate all what they h•• and loose both the beginning and end of all their wo••• Although not onely from Gold, but from other Metals 〈◊〉 this Clenodium, and Jewel may be had, in the prepara•••• of it, particulariter much profit and advantage may be ••¦ten in that, which concerneth mans health, as hath be formerly told; however, without the spirit of Mercury 〈◊〉Universal of the World to be gotten meerly from the b•• of Sol, is impossible, and will be impossible, unlesse▪ Creatour of all things produce another ordinance, to cha•• and alter his Creature after his own will. But as that impossible, so it is impossible also, to deal against G•• Creature in that kinde, as to finde out that wholesom p••¦fit, which to your longing desire you expect. You m•• believe it for a truth, as Christ himself is, that the Philo••¦pher's stone would not be so strange, rare, and unkno•• a thing, it would be common to Kings and Potentates, 〈◊〉 God would permit to be made of Gold alone, and the th•• Jewels of infinite fixed vertues hid therein, could be 〈◊〉 out of it!

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

Page 141
〈◊〉 tell thee really for the highest truth, that you may dis∣•e our Gold, naturally driven together, in a short way, to •ng it to its prima materia, and is done thus: take the •wn Mineral Spirit, in which our Mercury, Sulphur, and 〈◊〉 is shut up, containing that Philosophick mystical Gold, ••r that guttatim upon white calcined tartar, these two ••trary qualified matters will be tissing, let them stay toge∣•r till their contention and strife be ended, and our Gold •e it self invisible in the vegetable Salt acre, or in the bel∣• of tartar: lute a Helmet to it, distil it at first gently in •neo, then increase your fire, then Hermes his volatile 〈◊〉 will fly away from our Gold in that sublimation, and sit 〈◊〉 the highest pinnacles of the Temple, looking about •ich way to betake himself, but soon is catch'd in the •ceiver, which must be pure and very dry: when you see •t his flight is but slow, then take the glasse out of the ••ny, set it in ashes, increase your fire, then will she fly •re nimbly, keep that fire so long till all is come over; •d her brother the Red Dragon, hiding his rednesse under a 〈◊〉 colour in a whitish fume, will begin to follow after his •ing brother. Then cease with the fire, the drops being fall'n from the Helmet, take it off, that which you •de in the Receiver, you are to keep as a treasure of my∣•ries. In this manner you have gotten wisdom, under∣••nding, and skill, the fundamentals also, and desires of Phi∣••ophers: by this short witty proof you learn and get that •owledge, how this water may be sought after, found, and ••ted on, and is not to be esteemed a common water, but is •at real infallible heavenly water, of which at the begin∣••g I have written, and repeated the same the oftner; •hich in a spiritual manner from the heavens power is •ured down upon earth, beginneth and accomplisheth •e generation of all Metals, for that reason the ancient Phi∣••ophers call'd this water Mercury, but I call it the Spirit of •ercury.

Now if you proceed right in this work, and you know •hat food and what drink •o give to this bird, viz. Sulphur
Page 142
and Salt of Metal, then you may attain unto the end of 〈◊〉 great work, which is almost like unto the Philosoph•• great work, and you may get profit infinitely partitu•a•• many wayes; you must note, that this is not the true Phi••¦sophick dissolution, but onely one, which particula•• performeth strange matters, a•d is a speculum, in which 〈◊〉 Mercury, our Sol, and our Lune is seen bleaking, which i• present confuting of unbelieving Thomasses, discover•• the blindnesse of ignorantment. The dissolution of t• three principles I have described unto you formerly, whi•• is of a slower pace, requiring time and patience, and 〈◊〉 exact attention to make, or bring three into one, which w• is done in it self per se, without mixing of any heterogene• matter, onely that which lyeth hid in it, must do it. F• the Fountain of salvation is the illumination of the So•• and the Salt of the clarified body, are all in that one thin• existent from one, two, or three, which must be brought a•• reduced to one, which is the golden vertue of all Metals, •∣alted above all powers, together with the Eagle and whi• body, which are no where together, but onely in this one found, and in that which is next kin unto it, which kno•¦ing Philosophers alwayes held in great esteem, but ignora•• and blinde men despised and disgraced the same. But tho•• whose eyes are once opened, love to stick unto truth, co•• to hide the matter from wicked men, and study day a•• night how the ignorant might be kept from it. Thus I clo• this third part.

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

My friend, you must note, that this description I ma•• now of the essence of Vitriol resteth onely upon try•• made, the victorious triumph of the highest wisdom c•• by inheritance from the most ancient Philosophers un• me, and comes now unto thee, wherein experimenta• it's found, that there is a subterranean Mineral Salt, call•Vitriol, which for dying of Cloaths, and many other us•
Page 143
〈◊〉 cannot well possibly be without it, for it carrieth •nd eateth through, by reason of its sharpnesse, ••h is distinct from other Salts, in respect of their qua∣••: for the Mineral of this Salt is strange, of a very •nd fiery quality, as apparent in its spirit, and con∣••th a twofold spirit, which is miraculum naturae,•is not found the like in other Salts; and this Salt is a ••aph•odit among other Salts, it is white and red, even ••u will have it, it hath an extraordinary medicinal qua∣•• performing things in an incredible manner. This Salt ••ineth a combustible Sulphur, which is not in other 〈◊〉. Therefore in Metalline affairs touching their trans∣••tion, it performeth more than others, because it help-•ot onely to open some, but helpeth the generation of ••rs, by reason of its innate heat. When Vitriol is sepa∣•• by means of fire, then its spirit at first comes in a ••e form, after that there comes from its earth a spirit of 〈◊〉 condition, staying in the earth, the Salt being united 〈◊〉 its expell'd Mercury and Sulphur, can sharpen them: •emainder that stayeth behinde, is a dead earth, of no ••acie. Let this suffice for your learning, and consider 〈◊〉 what the Creator holds forth unto thee, in nature by •ow kindled ternarie: for as you finde in Vitriols body 〈◊〉 distinct things, as Sp•rit, Oyl, and Salt, even so you expect from its own spirit again (which without the ••ling of its Oyl, is driven from its matter) three distinct ••gs, even as you did formerly from the body of Vitriol, ••h deserveth very well the name of Speculum sapientiae ••ae, held forth purposely to man to view himself. For 〈◊〉 can separate this spirit of Vitriol as it ought, then that •ds again unto you three principles, out of which onely, out any other addition, since the beginning of the •d the Philosophers stone hath been made: from that have to expect again a spirit of a white form, an Oyl of •uality, after these two a Christalline Salt, these three ••g duely joyned in their perfection, generate no lesse 〈◊〉 the Philosophers great stone: for that white spirit is
Page 144
meerly the Philosophers Mercury, the red Oyl is the S•• and the Salt is that true Magnetick body, as I told you 〈◊〉 merly. As from the spirit of Vitriol is brought to light •¦red and white tincture, so from its Oyl there is made V•• her tincture, and in the Center they are much distinct a••¦der, though they dwell in one body, possessing one lo•• it matters not, for the will of the Creator was so, to h•• that mystery from unworthy men: observe and conside• well, if so be you intend to be a true follower of Ph••¦sophers: In this knowledge lyeth hid an irrecov•¦able errour, worldly wits cannot conceive of it, 〈◊〉 the spirit of Vitriol, and the remaining Oyl should be of great distinction in the vertue. Touching their proper•• the spirit being well dissolved, and brought into its th••principles, Gold and Silver onely can be made by it, and 〈◊〉 of its Oyl onely Copper, which will be apparent in a pr•¦made. The condition of the spirit of Vitriol, and its maining Oyl is this, that where there is Copper and Iron, 〈◊〉 Solar seed commonly is not far from it, and again wh•• there is seed of Gold at hand, Copper and Iron is not 〈◊〉 from it, by reason of its attractive Magnetick quality 〈◊〉 love, which they, as tinging spirits in a visible manner c••¦tinually bear one to another. Therefore Venus and M•• are penetrated & ringed with the superabounding tinct• of Gold, and in them there is found much more the 〈◊〉 of the red tincture, than in Gold it self, as I made further •¦lation of it in my other backs, unto which there belong 〈◊〉 also the Mineral of Vitriol, which goeth beyond these▪ many degrees, because its spirit is meer Gold and rubed• crude indigested tincture, and in very truth (as God h••¦self is) is indeed not found otherwise.

But this spirit, as you heard, must be divided into ••¦tain distinct parts, as into a spirit, soul, and body, the sp•• is the Philosophick water, which though visibly parted sunder, yet can never be separated radically, (because their unavoidable affinity they bear, and have one to 〈◊〉 other) as it appeareth plainly, when afterward they 〈◊〉
Page 145
ioyned, the one in their mixture embraceth the other, even 〈◊〉 Magnet draweth Iron, but in a meliorated essence, bet∣•• than they had before their dissolution. This is the •ift, beginning, middle, and end of the total Philosophick ••sdom, affording riches and health, and a long life; it may •her be said, and really proved, that this spirit is the es∣•ce of Vitriol, because this Spirit and Oyl do differ so ••ch, and were never united radically, because the Oyl ••meth after the spirit, each can be received apart; This ••y spirit may rather and more fitly be called an essence, ••phur, and substance of Gold, and it is so, though he lyeth •king in Vitriol as a spirit.

This golden water, or spirit drawn from Vitriol, contains •in a sulphur and Magnet, its sulphur is the anima, an in∣••bustible fire, the Magnet is its own Salt, which in the ••junction attracteth its Sulphur and Mercury, uniteth ••h the same, and are inseparable Companions. First in •entle heat is dissolved the undigested Mercurial spirit, 〈◊〉 this is further extracted, after a Magnetick quality, the ••phurous anima, in that earth sticketh the Salt, which is tracted also in a Magnetick way by the Mercurial spirit, still the one is a Magnet unto the other, bearing a Mag∣••ick love one to another, as such things, where the last ••ether with the medium is drawn forth by the first, and 〈◊〉 thereby generated, and thus take their beginning. In •s separation and dissolution the spirit, or Mercury is the •st Magnet, shewing its Magnetick vertue toward the sul∣•• and Soul, which he quasi Magnes attracteth, this spirit ••modum distillationis being absolved and freed, sheweth a∣•• its Magnetick power toward the salt, which he attract∣•• from the dead earth; after the spirit is separated from it, 〈◊〉 the Salt appeareth in its purity: if that processe be ther followed, an• after a true order and measure the ••unction be undertaken, and the Spirit and Salt be set ••ther into the Philosophick furnace, then it appears 〈◊〉, how the heavenly spirit striveth in a Magnetick way ••tract its own Salt, it dissolveth the same within XL.
Page 146
dayes, bringeth it to an uniform water with it s•lf, even the Salt hath been before its coagulation. In that dest••¦ction and dissolution appeareth the hugest blacknesse a••Eclipse, and darknesse of the earth, that ever w•• seen. But in the exchange thereof a bright glitteri•• whi•enesse appearing, then the case is altered, and 〈◊〉 dissolved fluid waterish Salt turns into a Magnet; for that dissolution it layeth hold on its own spirit, which is t•• spirit of Mercury, attracteth the same powerfully like Magnet, hiding it under a form of a dry clear body, brin•¦ing the same by way of uniting into a deep coagulation a• firm fixednesse by means of a continued fire, and the cert•• degrees thereof.

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

At the closing I annect this briefly, to hold forth u• to you a natural proof, that you presently fling and thro• down the Sophister, and take his Scepter from him. No• that from all Metals, especially from Mars and Venus, whi•• are very hard and almost fixed Metals, of each apart can made a V•triol; this is the reduction of a Metal into a Mi••¦ral: for Minerals grow to Metals, and Metals were at fi• Minerals, and so Minerals are proxima materia of Metals, b• not prima: from these vitriol may be made, other reduc•
Page 147
〈◊〉, namely a spirit is drawn from them by the vertue of 〈◊〉

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

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

End of the third Part.


THE •OURTH PART OF BASILIUS VALENTINUS His last TESTAMENT, •he Manuals wherein he treateth, how Me∣tals and fitting Minerals may Particu∣lariter be brought to their highest preparation.

LONDON, Printed Anno Domini, MDCLVI.


Page 151

---

THE FOURTH PART,

Of •articulars from the seven Metals, how they may be prepared with profit. First of the Sulphur of Sol, whereby Lune is tinged into good Gold.
TAke of pure Gold, which is three times cast through Antimony, and of well purged Mercury vive, being prest through leather, six parts, make of it an Amalgame, to the quantity of this Amalgame grinde twice as much of common Sulphur, let it evaporate •n a broad pan in a gentle heat under a Muffle, stirring it •ll with an Iron hook, let the fire be moderate, yt the mat∣•er do not melt together, this Gold calx must be brought to •e colour of a Mary-gold flower, then is it right; then take •e part of Salpeter, one part of Salarmonie, half a part of ••inded peebles, draw a water from it. Note, this water •ust be drawn warily and exactly: To draw it after the •ommon way will not do it; he that is used to Chymick pre∣•rations, knows what he hath to do; And note, you must •ave a strong stone Retort, which must be coated, to hold •he spirits closely: its upper part must have a pipe, upward •f half a spans length, its widenesse must bear two fingers •readth, it must be set first in a distilling furnace, which must be open above, that the upper pipe may stand out di∣•ectly, apply a large receiver, lute it well: let your first fire •e gentle, then increase it that the Retort look glowing hot:
Page 152
put a spoonfull of this ground matter in at the pipe, close th• pipe suddenly with a wet clout, the spirits come rushing•• into the receiver: these spirits being setled, then carry i• another spoon-full: in this manner you proceed till yo• have distilled all. At last give time to the spirits to be se•¦led, to turn into water: this water is a hellish dissolvin• strong one, which dissolveth instantly prepared Gold cal•• and laminated Gold, into a thick solution, of which I mad• mention above in the third part. This is that water, which mentioned in my second Key, which dissolveth not onely Gold, but bringeth it to a volatility, carrying it over th• helmet, whose anima may afterward be drawn from its to•• body.

Note, the spirit of common Salt effecteth the same, i• drawn in that manner, which I shall speak of afterward. 〈◊〉 three parts of this Salt-spirit be taken, and one part of spiri¦tus nitri, it is stronger than Salarmonick water: and is better because it is not so corrosive, dissolveth Gold the sooner carrieth it over the helmet, maketh it volatile and fit to pa•• with its soul; you have your choice to use which you think• best, and may easier be prepared, thus: Take one part o•• the prepared Gold calx, and three parts of the water, which you make choice of, put it into a body, lute a helmet to it, set it in warm ashes, let it dissolve, that which is not dis∣solved, pour three times as much water upon, that all dis∣solve: let it cool, separate the feces, put the solution into a body, lute a helmet to it, let it stand in a gentle heat day and night to Balneo Mariae, if more feces be setled, separate them, digest them again in the Balmy nine dayes and nights, then abstract the water gently to a spissitude, like unto an Oyl in the bottom; this abstracted water must be poured on that spissitude: this must be iterated often, that it grow weary and weak: remember you lute well at all times. To the oleity on the bottom pour fresh water, which was not yet used, digest day and night firmly closed, then set it in a sand Capel, distil the water from it to a thicknesse: make the abstracted water warm, put it into a body, lute it,
Page 153
••stract it, iterate this work, and make all the Gold come •er the helmet.

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

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

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

Take the Ruby-•ed prepared Gold powder, put of this prepared spirit of Salt and Wine, so much that it stand two
Page 154
fingers breadth over it, set it in a gentle heat, the spirit w•• be red ting'd, this red spirit must be canted off, pour 〈◊〉 new spirit on that, which remained on the bottom, set ••¦luted into a gentle heat, let it be tinged deeply, then cant 〈◊〉 off, this work must be iterated, that the body of Sol re∣main on the bottom like calx vive, which keep, for therei• sticketh yet more of the Salt of Gold, which is effectual i• wayes of Medicine, as shall be showed anon.

Those ring'd spirits put together, abstract them gently i•Balneo, there will be left a red subtile powder in the bot∣tom, which is the true tinctur animated, or Sulphur of Gold, dulcifie it with distill'd rain water, it will be very subtil, tender, and fair. Take this extracted Sulphur of Sol, as you were taught, and as much of Sulphur of Mars, as you shall hear anon, when I treat of Mars: grinde them toge∣ther, put it in a pure glasse, pour on it so much of spirit of Mercury, let it stand over it two fingers breadth, that the matter in it may be dissolved, see to it that all dissolve into a Ruby-like Gold water, joyntly drive it over, then is it one, and were at first of one stem, keep it well, that no∣thing of it evaporate, put it to separated silver calx, being precipitated with pure Salt, and afterward well edulco∣rated, and dried, fix it together in a fiery fixation, that it sublime no more: then take it forth and melt it in a wind∣oven, let it stream well, then you have united Bride and Bridegroom, and you brought them unto Gold of a high degree: Be thankfull to God for it as long as you live.

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

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

Page 155
Take the white body of Sol, from which you have drawn •nima, reverberate it gently for half an hour, let it be∣•e corporeal, then pour on it well rectified hony-water, ••h is corrosive, extract its Salt in a gentle heat, it is •e in ten dayes space, the Salt being all extracted, ab∣•ct the water from it in Balneo, edulcorate the Salt with ••ted distillings, with common distilled water, clarifie it •n spirit of wine, then you have Sal auri, of wch you shall •r more in its due place, of the good qualities it hath by •y of Medicine upon man. On the remaining matter ••r spirit of Tartar, of which in another place, because it •ongeth unto Medicinals: digest these for a moneths ••e, drive it through a glasse, Retort into cold water, then •n have quick Mercury of Sol, many strive to get it, but 〈◊〉 vain.

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

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

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

But note, the Salt must not be taken from the Solar bo∣dy, of which I made mention formerly, in a repetition of
Page 156
the xii. Key, where you may read of. There may be p•¦pared yet in another manner a transparent Vitriol, 〈◊〉 Gold in the following manner.

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

Do not speak much of it to the vulgar: if you receive any benefit by and from my plain and open information, be thus minded, to keep these mysteries secret still to thy dy∣ing day, and make no shew of it, else thou art naked and
Page 157
lyest open to the Devils temptations in all thy wayes: •efore pray give attention to what I shall tell thee, for I impart unto thee this Arcanum also, and entrust thee 〈◊〉 thy conscience with it.

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

Then take this spirit of wine, into which the Gold drops •d fall, put it in a pellican, seal it Hermetice, circulate it 〈◊〉 a moneth, it turneth then to a bloud-red stone, which •elreth in the fire like Wax, beat it small, grinde among 〈◊〉Lunar calx, melt them together in a strong pot, being •own cold, put it in aquafort, there precipitateth a black •lx, melt it, then you finde much good Gold, as ••e Gold powder and the spirit of wine together with the •oyery, as the added Lunar calx did weigh, but one moye∣ty
Page 158
of the Lunar calx is not ting'd, the other is as good a• was to be used. If you hit this rightly, then be thankf•• to God: if not, do not blame me, I could not make plainet unto thee.

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

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

Then take the prepared Lunar calx, stratifie the calx wit• prepared Salt in a glasse Viol, pour strong water on it, mad• of equal quantities of Vitriol and Salpeter, abstract th•
Page 159
aqu•fort from it, iterated a third time, at last drive it ••ngly, let the matter well melt in the glasse, then t•ke •orth, your Lune is transparent and blewish, like unto an 〈◊〉a marine. Having brought Lune thus far, then pour on ••rong distilled Vinegar, set it in a w•rm place, the Vine∣•• is ting'd with a transparent blue, like a Saphir, and at∣•cteth the tincture of Lune, being separated from the Salt, which comes from Lune goeth again into the Vinegar, ••ich must be done by edulcora ion, then you will finde 〈◊〉Sulphur of Lune fair and clear. Take one part of this ••lphur of Lune, one half part of the extracted Sulphur of 〈◊〉, six parts of the spirit of Mercurie, joyn all these in a ••dy, lute it well, set it in a gentle hear, in digestion, that ••uor will turn to a red brown colour; having all driven ••er the helmet, and nothing stand in the bottom, then •ur it on the matter remaining of the silver you drew the ••lphur from, lute it well, set it in ash•s for to coagulate, ••d to fix it xl. dayes and nights, or when you see the Lu∣••r body be quite dry, brown, and nothing of it doth any •ore rise, or fume, then melt it quickly with a sudden ••x-fire before the blast, cast it forth, then you transmit∣••d the whole substance of Silver into the best most mal∣••ble Gold.

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

When you perceive that the Sulphur of Lune is wholly •xtracted, and the Vinegar takes no more tincture from her, ••or the Vinegar doth taste any more of Salt, then dry the ••maining calx of Silver, put it into a glasse, pour on it ••rrosive Hony water, as you did to the Gold, yet it must be ••ear, and without any feces, set it in a warmth, for four, or ••ve dayes, extract Lune's Salt, which you may perceive,
Page 160
when the water groweth white. The Salt being all o•• it, then abstract the Honey water, edulcorate the corros••¦nesse by distilling, and clarifie the Salt with spirit of w•• the remaining matter must be edulcorated and dried, p•• upon it spirit of Tartar, digest it for half a moneth, th• proceed as you did with the Gold, then you have Mercu•• of Lune. The said Salt of Lune hath excellent vertues up•• mans body, of which I shall speak in another place. T•• efficacie of its Salt and Sulphur may be learned by this f••¦lowing processe.

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

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

Page 161
•f the Particular of Mars, together with the ex∣traction of its Anima and Salt.
•Ake of red Vitriol Oyl, or Oyl of Sulphur one part, and two parts of ordinary Well-water, put those to∣•her, dissolve therein filings of steel, this d•ssolution must 〈◊〉 filtred being warm'd, let it gently evaporate a third part ••t, then set the glasse in a cool place, there will shoot ••stals as sweet as Sugar, which is the true Vitriol of ••rs, cant off that water, let it evaporate more, set it ••in in a cold place, more Crystals will shoot, neal them ••tly under a muffle, stirring it still with an Iron-wyar, 〈◊〉 you get a fair purple coloured powder, on this powder 〈◊〉 distill'd Vinegar, extract the anima of Mars in a gentle ••my, abstract again the Vinegar, and dulcorate the anima.••s is the anima of Mars, which being added to the spirit Mercurie, and united with the anima of Sol, tingeth Lune•o Sol, as you heard about the Gold.

〈◊〉 the Particular of Venus, what mysteries there are hid therein, and of the Extraction of its Sulphur and Salt.
TAke as much of Venus as you will, and make Vitriol, of 〈◊〉 it, after the usual and common practise: or take good 〈◊〉 digreece, sold in shops, it eff•cteth the same•, grinde it ••ll, pour on it good distill'd Vinegar, set it in a warmth, 〈◊〉 Vinegar will be transparent green, cant it off, pour on 〈◊〉••••ning matter on the bottom new Vinegar, iterate 〈◊〉 work as long as the Vinegar taketh out any tincture, 〈◊〉 the •••er of the Verdigreece on the bottom lieth 〈◊〉 black; put the ting'd Vinegar together, distil the
Page 162
Vinegar from it to a drynesse, else a black Vitriol 〈◊〉 shoot, thus you get a purified Verdigreece, grind it sm• pour on it the juyce of immature Grapes, let it stand i• gentle heat, this juyce maketh a transparent tincture, 〈◊〉 green as a Smarag'd, and attracteth the red tincture of •¦nus, which affords an excellent colour for Painters, L•¦mers, and others for their several uses.

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

But especially note, that the way of the Universal w•• this Vitriol is understood in the same manner, and is th• conditioned, as I told you in the third part of the Univers• and pointed at the common Hungarian Vitriol, and even well out of Mars, put Particulariter to be dealt upon w••Venus. Therefore know, that it may be done with g••• profit, if you drive forth the red Oyl of Vitriol, and disso••Mars in it. And Crystallise the solution, as you were to 〈◊〉 when I treated of Mars. For in this dissolution and coa••¦lation Venus & Mars are united, this Vitriol must be nea•• under a muffle unto a pure red powder, and must be e•¦tracted further with distill'd Vinegar, as long as there is a• rednesse in it, then you get the anima of Mars, and of V•¦••s
Page 163
doubled, of this doubled vertue after the addition of ••e anima of Sol, which you made in the before quoted ••antity take twice as much of Silver calx, and fix it, as ••u heard when I spoke of the Particular of Mars and of ••l.

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

Of the Particular of Saturn, together with the ex∣traction of its Soul and Salt.
MOst men hold and count Saturn an unworthy and mean Metal, and is abused most basely in several ex∣•editions, whereas, if known in its internals, more laudable •xploits would be performed with it, and many excellent •edicines be prepared of it. Being it is my intention to •ut an Elucidation to my former writings, to leave it after ••e for a legacie unto posterity, that simple men of ordinary ••pacity might know and conceive also of the things I for∣•erly wrote of, which after the resurrection of my flesh my ••lf shall bear record unto, that I have written more then 〈◊〉 meet, which others before me have purposely conceal∣••; it being my purpose to declare fundamentally all such ••rticulars, which formerly at large I discoursed of in a ••ilosophick manner, thus: that this my Declaration made 〈◊〉 any decrepite age be noted conscionably by those into •hose hands it comes, that this my Revelation, which in •ods providence will be disposed of, to be a lamp of truth 〈◊〉 all the world, may not be imparted unto unworthy
Page 164
men of Gods mysteries, which acknowledge not the Cr••¦tor of them in a pure humble and penitent heart, per•¦vering conversation, and a fervent purpose to incline u•• and towards him. This present writing I leave as a p••¦cious badge with an earnest p•oviso, that men would lo• and observe carefully every letter contained in this, a•• others of my writings, which in all fidelity I hold for unto them: And begin now with Saturn, who in all pr•¦bability after Astronomick rules is the highest and chief• Lord in the coelestial spheres, by whose influence the s••¦terranean Saturn hath its life and coagulation, putting th• black colour on it, the rest from the best to the worst fo•¦low after, whose splendour enlightneth that whole firm•¦ment, and is incorruptible.

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

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

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

Take pure Lead, which yields to the hammer, as much
Page 165
as you please, laminate it thinly, the thinner the better, •ng these lamins, or a large glasse filled with strong Vine∣••, in which is dissolved a like quantity of the best Sal∣monie, sublimed thrice with common Salt, stop the glas∣•• mouth very closely, that nothing evaporate, set the glasse 〈◊〉 ashes of a gentle heat, otherwise the spirits of the Vine∣•r and Salarmonick ascend, and touch the Saturnal lamins; 〈◊〉 the tenth, or twelfth day you will spie a subtile Ceruse ••iging on these lamins, brush them off with a Hares foot, 〈◊〉 on, get enough of this Ceruse, provided, you buy good •ates, if sophisticated, you labour in vain. Take a quan∣••y of it, if you please, put it in a body, pour strong Vine∣••r on it, which several times hath been rectified, and was ••tified at the last rectification with a sixtienth part of ••irit of vulgar Salt, dephlegmed, and drawn over: stop ••e body well, or which is better, lute a blende head to 〈◊〉, set the body in ashes to be digested, swing it often ••out, in few dayes the Vinegar begins to look yellow ••d sweet, as the first, iterate it a third time, it is sufficient. •he remnant of the Ceruse stayeth in the bodies bottom 〈◊〉 shapely, filter the ting'd Vinegar clearly, that is of a •ansparent yellownesse: put all the ting'd Vinegar toge∣••er, abstract two parts of it in Balneo Mariae, let the third ••rt stay behinde, this third part is of a reasonable Rubedo,〈◊〉 the glasse in a very cold water, then the Chrystalls will •oot ye sooner, being shot, take them out with a woodden •oon, lay them on a paper for to dry, these are as sweet as ••gar, and are of great energy against inflamed symptomes: ••stract the Vinegar further in Balneo, in which the Chry∣••als did shoot, set that distillation aside, for the shoo•ing 〈◊〉 more Chrystals, and proceed with these as you did for∣•erly.

Now take all these Chrystals together, they in their ap∣•earance are like unto clarified Sugar, or Salpeter, beat ••em in a Morter of glasse, or iron, or grinde them on a 〈◊〉 Marble unto an u•palpablenesse, reverberate it in a •entle heat, to a bloud-like rednesse: Provided, they do
Page 166
not turn to a blacknesse. Having them in a Scarlet colour Put them in a glasse, pour on a good spirit of Juniper, ab¦stracted from its Oyl, and rectified several times into 〈◊〉 fair, white, bright manner, lute the glasse above, set it in 〈◊〉 gentle heat, let the spirit of Juniper be ring'd with a trans∣parent rednesse like bloud, then cant it off neatly fro• the feces into a pure glasse: with that proviso, that no impu•• thing run along, on the feces pour other spirit of Juniper extract still, as long as any spirit taketh the tincture: kee•• these feces, they contain the Salt.

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

Then take this Oyl, or dissolved anima of Saturn out o• the Viol, it is of a gallant fragrancie, put it into a body, apply a Helmet to it, lute it well, drive it over, then sou•
Page 167
•d spirit is united together, and fit to transmute Mercury •rcipitated into Sol.

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

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

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

Page 168
One thing more I must tell thee about this processe that there is yet a better way to deal upon Saturn, wi•• more profit, you seeker, that you may not have any caus• to complain against my not declaring, take it thus: tak• two parts of the abovesaid dissolved Oyl, or of the Satur¦nal Soul, one part of Astrum Solis, and of Antimonial Sul¦phur, whose preparation followeth afterwards, two parts half as much of Sal of Mars, as all these are, weigh the• together, put all into a glasse Vial, let the third part of i• be empty, set it in together to be fixed, then the Salt o•Mars openeth in this compound, is fermented by it, an• the matter begins to incline to a blacknesse, for ten, o• twelve dayes it is eclipsed, then the Salt returns to its coa¦gulation, laying hold in its operation on the whole com¦pound, coagulate it first into a deep brown Masse, 〈◊〉 it stand thus unstirred in a continued heat, it turneth to 〈◊〉 bloud-red body, encrease the fire, that you may see Astr•• Solis be predomi•ant, which appeareth in a greenish co¦lour, like unto a Rain-bow: keep this fire continually, le• all these colours vanish, it turneth to a transparent re• stone ve•y ponderous, needlesse to be projected on Mer∣cury, but ringeth after its perfection, and fixation all white Metals into the purest Gold. Then take of the pre∣pared fixed red stone, or of the powder one part, and fo•• parts of any of the white Metal, first let ye Metal melt half a•• hou•, and let it be well clarified, then project the powde•• upon it, let it drive well, and see that it be entred into the Metal, & the Metal begin to congeal, then is it transmute• into Gold, beat the pot in pieces, take it out, if it hath any Slacks, •rive them with Saturn, then is it pure and maile∣able. If you carry it on Lune, then put more of the powder to it than you do upon Jupiter and Saturn, as half an ounc• of he powder tingeth five ounces of Lune into Sol, let t•• be a miracle, •o•l not thy Soul with imparting this mystery unto others, that are unworthy of it. Proceed with S•lt o•Saturn, as you were informed about Mars and Venus, onely distilled Vinegar p••formeth that, which Hony
Page 169
wa••er did by the other, and clarifie it with spirit of ••e.

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

Page 170
Of the Particular of Mercury vive, and of its Sulphur and Salt.
TAke of quick Mercury, sublimed seven times, lib. a ba• grinde it very small, pour on it a good quantity of sha•• Vinegar, boyl it on the fire for an hour, or upward, stirri•• the matter with a woodden spatule, take it from the fir• let it be cold, the Mercury setleth to the bottom, and th• Vinegar cleareth up: if it be slow in the clearing, let som• drops of spirit of Vitriol fall in the Vinegar, it doth precipi•¦tate the other, for Vitriol precipitateth Mercury vive, Sa• of Tartar precipitateth Sol, Venus and common Salt dot• precipitate Lune, and Mars doth the like to Venus, a lixi∣vium of Beech-ashes doth it to Vitriol, and Vinegar is fo•common Sulphur in that way, and Mars for Tartar, and Sal• peter for Antimony. Cant off the Vinegar from the precip•∣taete, you will finde the Mercury like a pure wash'd Sand pour on it Vinegar, iterate this work a third time, then edulcorate the matter, let it dry gently.

Take two ounces of Anima of Mars, one ounce of Anima of Saturn, one ounce of Anima of Jupiter, dissolve these in 〈◊〉 ounces of Mercurial spirit, let all be dissolved, then drive it over, leave nothing behinde, it will be a Golden water, like a transparent dissolution of Sol, your prepared and edulcarated Mercury must be warm'd in a strong Viol, pour this warm'd water gently on it, a tissing will be, stop the Viol, then the tissing is gone; than seal it Hermetice, set it in a gentle Balmy, in ten dayes the Mercury is dissolved in∣to a grasse green Oyl: set the Viol in ashes for a day and night, rule your fire gently, this green colour turneth in∣to a yellow Oyl, in this colour is hid the Rubedo, keep it in this fire and let the matter turn to a yellow powder, like unto Orpiment; when no more comes over, then set the glasse in Sand for a day and a night, give a strong fire to it,
Page 171
〈◊〉 fairest Ruby-rubedo appear, melt it to a fixednesse 〈◊〉 a fluxing powder made of Saturn, it comes now to a •ablenesse, one pound of it containeth two ounces of 〈◊〉 Gold, as deep, as ever Nature produced any. Be∣•ber the poor, do not precipitate thy self into an infer∣•abysse, by forgetting thy self in not doing the duties ought to perform in regard of the blessing,

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

Seeing the Salt and Astrum of Mercury is of the same Me∣•cinal operation, I hold it needlesse to write of each in •articular, & will joyn their operation into one, and declare •f it in the last part about the Salt of Mercury, because •hey are of one effect in Medicinal operations. Take the •ade Oyl, or Astrum Mercurii, which by reason of its •reat heat keeps its own body in a perpetual running, ca∣•ing it on the next standing earth, from which you former∣•• drew the Oyl. Set it in a heat, the Oyl draweth its own •alt; that being done, put to it a reasonable quantity of •pirit of Wine, abstract it again, the Salt stayeth behinde, ••ssolved in the fresh spirit of Wine, being dulcified by co∣hobation:
Page 172
Then is the Mercurial Sal ready, and prepa•• for the Medicine, as shall be mentioned in the last pa•Mercury is able to do no more, neither Particulariter,〈◊〉universaliter, because he is far off from Philosophers M•¦cury, as many are deceived in their fancies to the co•¦trarie.

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

Take two parts of this powder, one part of Solar Sul∣phur, grinde th•se small, then t•ke three parts of Sulphur of Mars, pour on it six parts of Spirit of Mercury, set it in digestion well lu•ed, le• the S•l•••ur of Mars be dissolved to a•y, then carry in a s•u••• part of •he ground-matter of of the Sulphur of Antimony, and of Sol, lu•• and digest, let
Page 173
all be dissolved, then carry in more of your ground Sul∣•rs, proceed as formerly, iterating it so long till all be •olved, then the matter becomes a thick brown Oyl, ••e all over joyntly into one, leave nothing behinde in 〈◊〉 bottom, then pour it on a purely separated Lunar calx, it by degrees of fire, then melt it into a body, separate •ith an Aquasort, six times as much of Sal is precipitated •n above the ponderosity the compound did weigh, ye re∣•inder of Lune serveth for such works you please to put unto.

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

A short way to make Antimonial Sulphur and Salt.
TAke good Vitriol, common Salt, and unslaked Li•e, of each one p•und, four ounces of Sal armoniac, bear them small, put them in a glasse body, pour on it 〈◊〉 pound of common Vinegar, let it stand in digestion •••'d for a day, put it afterward into a Retort, apply a
Page 174
receiver to it, distil it, as usually an aquafort is dis••• Take of the off drawn liquor, and of common Salt, 〈◊〉 pound of each, rectifie them once more, let no muddi•• come over with it, all must come clear: then take 〈◊〉 pound of pulverised antimonial glasse, pour this spirit 〈◊〉 it, lute it well, digest, and let all be dissolved; then •¦stract the water in Balneo Mariae, there remains in the b•¦tom a black, thick, fluid matter, but somewhat dry, lay on a glasse Table, set it in a Cellar, a red Oyl floweth h• it, leaving some feces behinde, coagulate this red Oyl ge•¦ly upon ashes, let it be exiccated there; then pour 〈◊〉 best spirit of Wine on it, it extracteth a tincture which 〈◊〉 bloud red, cant off that which is ting'd, pour other spi• of Wine on the remainder, let all rednesse be extract•• thus you have the tincture, or Antimonial Sulphur, which 〈◊〉 of a wonderfull Medicinal efficacie, and is aequivalent••¦potable Gold, as you beard in the former processe. A• in preparation serveth now to proceed with it Particula••¦ter, as I shewed in the former. This black matter, whi• stayed behinde after the extraction of Sulphur, must be 〈◊〉 exiccated, extract its snow-white Salt with distill'd V•¦gar, edulcorate it, clarifie it with spirit of Wine, observe i• vertues in Medicina, of the which in the last part.

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

If you onely know those, whereby health and wealth 〈◊〉 obtained, then these metalline Sulphurs in their co•¦pounds may bring great profit unto you, to write of a• these circumstantially, is impossible to one man, it is of a• infinite labour. Call upon God for grace and mercie: A•
Page 175
fundamental Theorie affords the practick part, from •nce flow infinite springs, all from one head. If you go ••erwise to work, than I entreated you to do by the Crea∣•• of heaven and earth, then all your actions will be retro∣••de unto a temporal disaster.

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

End of the fourth Part.


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

In which many thousands, since the be∣ginning of the World have wrought.

LONDON, Printed Anno Domini, MDCLVI.



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


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

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


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


The Contents of this Book are
I. OF the great stone of Ancient Philoso¦phers.
II. The XII. Keyes, whereby the doors 〈◊〉 the Philosophers stone are opened and the deep Fountain of health an• wealth floweth from thence.
III. A short repetition of his writings about th• Philosophick stone, wherein is plainly held forth the true Philosophick light: whereun¦to is annexed an information of Quick-sil¦ver, Antimony, Vitriol-water, commo• Sulphur, Calx vive, Arsenic, Salpeter, Sal¦miac, Tartar, Vinegar, and Wine.
IV. Of Microcosme, or Mans body, what it con∣taineth, of what it is composed, the whole contents thereof, and of its issue and end.
V. Of the great mystery of the World, and its Me∣dicinals belonging to man.
VI. Of the Magisterium of the VII. Planets, their essence, properties, vertues, operation, and revolution, and their admirable hidden my∣stical qualities.
Page 1

---

Of the great Stone of the An∣cient Philosophers, writ∣ten by BASILIUS VALENTINUS.

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

Note, it is given but to few men to attain unto the ma∣stery of this Art; though many strive, and endeavour to work upon that structure, yet the true knowledge, and the attaining thereunto the great Creator hath made common,
Page 2
but bestoweth it onely on such, which hate lies, and love• truth, and intend seriously and groaningly to get this Art• and chiefly such men are fit for it, which love God unfained∣ly, and pray earnestly unto him for such a knowledge.

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

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

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

Seeing the stone of the most ancient Philosophers doth not come, or spring from things which are combustible, be∣cause this stone is freed from all dangers, fire may put him unto; therefore trouble not thy self to seek for it in such things, where Nature would not have thee to seek for. As for example, if one should tell thee, this stone is a vege∣table work, because a growing quality is in it, but it is
Page 3
not: For if our stone were of a condition, as other vegeta∣••es are, it would easily be consumed in fire, nothing •ould stay, but onely its Salt. Though there were men, •ho have written great volumes of the vegetable stone, yet ••y friend you must note, that it will be very difficult for ••e to conceive of it, for they call our stone a vegetable ••e, because a growing and augmenting belongeth there∣•nto.

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

If you be a true lover of our Art, you will take this ex∣pression into consideration, to keep thy self out of the pit, into which erroneous Sophisters usually fall, which their enemy digged for them. My friend, that you may know further from whence this seed cometh, then enquire first of thy self, to what end you intend to seek after this stone: Reason then will dictate unto thee, that it must needs spring from a Metalline root, which the Creator hath or∣dained for Metals to generate thereby: if you will know the matter of it, then note; First, when the spirit moved •pon the water, and the Universe was encompassed with
Page 4
darknesse, then the omnipotent and eternal God, who i• without a beginning and end, whose wisdom was from eter∣nity by his insearchable Decree created heaven and earth, and the things contained therein, be they visible, or invi∣sible, by what name soever they may be called. But of •he manner of this glorious Creation my intent is not now to Philosoph•ze much upon: let Scripture and Faith be im∣partial judges herein!

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

Conceive thus of the seed, which worketh Metals; there is a heavenly influence, according to Gods good pleasure and ordinance, from above it falls, and mingleth with syde∣real qualities. When such conjunctions happen, then these two beget an earthly substance, as a third thing, whic• is the beginning of our seed, its first original, whereby its first descent is proved: from these three the Elements have their off spring, as water, aire, and earth, which work further by an Ae•nick fire to the bringing forth of a perfect thing, which Hermes and all those before me (for I could finde no more) have called the three principles, and were found to be an internal Soul, an incomprehensible spirit, and a visible body. These three being together in one dwelling, in processe of time, yet by Vulcans help, to be a comprehensible being, as a Me cury, Sulphur, and Salt; these three, by an uniting be••••rought into a coagulation, according to Natures miraculo•s operation, there is brought forth a perfect body as Nature would have it, and the Crea∣tor had ordained the seed for it. He that purposeth to seek
Page 5
after the fountain of our work, and hopeth to get the vi∣•tory in this warfar, to h•m I tell this for a truth, that where there is a Metalline Soul, a Metalline spirit, and a Metalline form of body, that there must needs be there also a Metal∣line Mercury, a Metalline Sulphur, and a Metalline Salt, these must needs produce a perfect Metalline body. If you do not conceive of it now, then surely you are not adapted for Philosophy, and in brief it is thus, it will not be possible for thee to reap the benefit of any Metalline bo∣dy, unlesse you have joyned compleatly the forenamed three principles. Note further; Animals are composed of flesh and bloud, there is in them also a living spirit and breath, which dwelleth in them, but they are destitute of a rational Soul, which before them, man is endued with∣all. This is the reason, that when Animals lost their lives, they are gone, no more hopes of them for ever. But man, who offering his body to his Creator in time of death, hath a Soul, who at the day of •esurrection is to receive a glori∣fied body to his Soul, and are to dwell together, and so Soul, Body, and Spi•i come together again i• an heavenly clarification, which in all eternity will never be separated again, &c.

Therefore man, by reason of his Soul, is acknowledged to be a fixed Creature, because he is to live for ever after this life (•hough in his body he is subject to a temporal death,) For death is unto man onely a clarification, ac∣cording to Gods ordinance, by certain degrees is delivered from a sinfulnesse, and transplanted into a better condition, which doth not be••ll other Animals, therefore are they esteemed to be unfixed Creatures, for these being once gone by death, cannot expect nor look for any resuscita∣tion, because they want a rational Soul, for which the sole Mediator Jesus Christ hath suffered, and shed his innocent bloud. A spirit •••y have a dwelling in a body, but it is not consequent, ha• he must abide there constantly, though the body and •hat spirit be at rest, and that body with that spirit doth not contest about any controversie: because both
Page 6
do want the strongest part, which upholdeth and bindeth together s•ul and body, protecteth and keepeth them from dangers, namely the tender, noble, and fixed Soul: for where the Soul is quite gone and lost, there is never any redemption hoped for: for a thing which hath no Soul, is not perfect, which is one of the highest mysteries, which seekers ought to know, and upon conscience I am com∣manded not to conceal this mystery, but to make it known to those, which seriously love fundamentals of truth. And take carefully notice of what I say: Spirits hidden in Me∣tals are not alike: some are more volatile, and others more fix: their souls and bodies are not alike neither: that Me∣t•l, which containeth the three fixednesses, that is blessed with a power, to hold in the fire, and so overcome all its enemies, which onely is found in Sol. Lune containeth a fixed Mercury, and is the reason, why she doth not fly so soon in the fire, as other imperfect Metals do, but stands out her examens in the fire, and sheweth the same victo∣riously, because the devouring Saturn can rob nothing from her.

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

Fixed Salt hath bestowed on valorous Mars a hard sturdy and grosse body, whereby the gallantry of his minde is p•oved, and is not so easily gotten from this warlike Prince, because his body is hard, and is not easily master'd, or con∣quer'd.
Page 7
But if his valour with Lune's fixation, and with Venus her beauty in a mixture doth harmonize spiritually, then a curious and melodious Musick may be made, where∣by some Keyes may be advanced, and the needy labourer may get a piece of living Particulariter, if he got up to the uppermost step of that ladder: for the phlegmatick quality or moist Nature of Lune must be exsiccated through the hot bloud of Venus, and her great pains must be allayed by the outward Salt.

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

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

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

Page 8
Take a piece of the finest Gold, anatomize the same by such means, as Nature hath afforded unto Artists, even as a Physician anatomizeth mans body, whereby he is inquisi∣tive into the condition of mans internal parts: reduce thy Gold unto that, what it hath been at first, then you will finde the seed, the beginning, middle, and end, out of which our Gold and its wife is made, namely of a pene∣trating subtile spirit, of a pure, tender, and undefiled Soul, and of an Astral Salt and Balsam, which after their uniting is nothing else but a Mercurial liquor, the same water was brought to School to its own God Mercury, who examined the water, having sound it without deceit and falshood, he made friendship with it, and took the water into a Matri∣monial state, and both became an incombustible Oyl. For Mercury grew so proud upon it, that he knew himself no more, he flung away his Eagles wings, himself swallowed the smooth t•yl of the Dragon, and offered a battel unto Mars: Mars gathered his Champions together, and gave command, that Mercurie should be taken Prisoner, and be kept closely imprisoned, Vulcan was commanded to be Jaylor so long, till a Female kinde came in to his deliver∣ance. This rumour being noised abroad, the other Planets had a meeting, where they consulted, what further was to be done in that businesse, & the proceedings might wisely be prosecuted. Then Saturn made a speech, in this manner: I Saturn, the highest Planet in the firmament, protest before this honourable Assembly of my Lords, that I am the mean∣est and most contemptible among you all, of a weak cor∣ruptible body, of a black colour, subject to many infir∣mities in this miserable World, and yet am an examiner of you all: for I have no abiding place; and take along with me such, tha• are like unto me: I cannot lay the fault of this my misery to none but Mercury, who by his careles∣nesse hath pu this evil upon me: Therefore, my Lords, I beseech you, to be pleased to revenge my quarrel on him, a•••ei••〈◊〉••st already into prison, there to take his life aw•y 〈◊〉 s••m •ot there, that not one drop of his bl••d
Page 9
Saturn having ended his speech, Jupiter rose up, made a •tch upon his knees, bowing his Scepter, began to com∣••nd Saturns proposals, commanding all those to be pu∣•shed, which should neglect to put in execution that, •hich Saturn would have done unto Mercurie. After him •ose Mars with his naked sword, which was full of strange ••d admirable colours, glittering like a fire-glasse, casting ••ange rayes, put ye sword into Vulcans the Jaylors hand, to ••t in execution all that, which the Lords had resolved up∣••: killed Mercurie, burnt his bones with fire, & Vulcan did 〈◊〉 Office very carefully. This Executioner having done 〈◊〉 duty, there came a white shining woman in a long garb 〈◊〉 a silver piece, of several water colours, being well viewed, ••hold it was Lune, the wife of Sol, she fell down upon her •ce, intreated heartily, and weeping, that her husband Sol•ight be set at liberty out of prison, Mercurie had cast him •to, by force with deceitfulnesse, where both he and Mer∣••rie, upon your honours command were kept imprisoned. ••t Vulcan gave her a flat denial, because he was com∣•anded to do so, and went on to do his office in executing ••e sentence. At last the Lady Venus came in a deep red •obe lined with green, of a most beautifull countenance, •leasant speech, and amiable gestures, bearing fragrant •owers in her hand, which were a most refreshing pleasure 〈◊〉 the eyes to behold, by reason of variety of colours: she •ade intercession in the Chaldaean language unto Vulcan,••tting into his remembrance, that redemption must come ••om a womankinde, but his eares were stopp'd. These •wo conferring together, Heaven opened it self, there came ••rth a huge beast with many thousands of young ones, de∣••oyed the Executioner, opening his jaws wide, devoured •he Lady Venus, which made the intercession, crying with a ••ill voice: My descent is of women, my seed is scattered ••r and near by them, thereby they replenished the Earth: •heir Soul is kinde to mine, therefore my desire is to feed ••d to drink of their bloud. The beast having spoken thus ••oud, it went into a room, shut the door behinde, all its
Page 10
young ones followed it: where more food must be pro•¦ded for them, and they drunk the first incombustible O• that meat and drink they easily digested, whereof mo• young ones were bred, which was continued long, so th• all the World was filled by them.

All these things thus hapning, there was a meeting of •¦veral learned men, which endeavoured to interpret 〈◊〉 declare, what hapned, and what had been spoken, that th• might the better understand these mysteries: none of the• was able to perform that businesse, for all of them had ••¦veral thoughts concerning these things: at last there sto•• up an ancient man, as white as snow in his hairs, clad 〈◊〉 purple from top to toe, on his head he had a Crown, in 〈◊〉 midst of it was set a precious Carbuncle, he was girt wi•• the girdle of life, and went bare-footed, spoke with a sp•¦cial spirit, which was hid in him, his speech and sayi•• went through his body and life, his Soul felt it to the i• most. This man stept on high, desired the Assembly to 〈◊〉 silent, and to give diligent attention unto him, because 〈◊〉 was sent from above to declare unto them these writing and to make it known unto them in a Philosophick expre•¦sion. The Assembly being silent, he began to speak thus Awaken, O man, and behold the light, that darknesse m• not mislead you, the Gods of Fortune, and the great God have revealed unto me in a deep sleep; How happy is tha• man that knoweth a God in their wondrous works, an• happy is he, whose eyes are opened to behold the ligh• which formerly was a darknesse unto him. The Gods h••• granted two Stars unto men, to lead them unto great wi•¦dom, O man, view them exactly, follow after their Iustre• because wisdom is found therein. The swift Bird of th• South devoureth the heart of the huge beast of the Eas• Make wings also unto the beast of the East, as the 〈◊〉 hath of the South, let them be equal one to another, so this Eastern beast must be bereaved of his Lyon-skin, an• his wings must vanish again, for both must enter into th• great Salt-Sea, and come forth again in beauty: sink you•
Page 11
disciples spirits into a deep Fountain, which is never with∣••t water, that they also may be like unto their mother, •hich lieth hid therein, and she came from three into the World.

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

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

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

This speech being made, he said further: Beloved men,
Page 12
I hope you have by hearkning unto my voyce learned wis∣dom, how, and in what you are to seek for the great ston• of ancient Philosophers, which healeth Leprous imperfec• Metals, revealeth unto them a new birth, preserveth me•• in health, prolongeth their lives, and by his heavenly power and operation hath kept me alive so long, that I a• weary of life, and wish for nothing but death.

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

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

Hereupon follow the XII. Keyes of BACILIUS VALENTINUS.
Whereby the Doors are opened unto the Ancient stone of Philosophers, where is found that everlasting Fountain of health, and of wealth.
The first Key.
MY friend, you must know that impure and defil•• things are not fit for our work. For their Lepro•• is no help for furtherance of our work: good things 〈◊〉 hindred in wayes that are unclean. Wares out of Mynes 〈◊〉 worth their money: but if sophisticated, they are ma•• unfit, being adulterated in their former and original op•¦••••n.

Page 13
As Physicians cleanse and purge by means of Physick the ••ard parts of the body, expelling all impurities from ••nce: thus these bodies also must be purified from their •urities, that perfection may be operative in our birth. 〈◊〉 masters require a pure undefiled body, which must not 〈◊〉 mixed with any spot, or strange matter. For strange ••itionals are a Leprosie to our Metals. The Kings Crown ••st be of pure Gold, a chaste Bride must be married unto 〈◊〉. Therefore if you will work through, or upon our bo∣••, then take the greedy gray Wolf, which by reason of •ame stands in subjection unto valorous Mars: but ••hing his descent, he is a Childe of old Saturn, found Valleys and Hills of the World, is very hungry: cast be∣•• him the Kings body, let him feed upon it: & when he 〈◊〉 devoured the King, then make a great fire, cast the •lfe into, let him be quite burn'd, then the King will be at liberty again: This being done thrice, then the Wolfe •onquered by the Lyon, finding no more on him to 〈◊〉 upon, then is our body perfect for the beginning of 〈◊〉 work.

•ote, that this is the onely true way convenient to •ge our bodies, for the Lion is cleansed by the Wolves ••d, and the tincture of that bloud rejoyceth mightily •he Lion's tincture, because they are near kin one to •ther. When the Lion is satisfied, then his spirit is, and eyes cast proud rayes, like the lustrous Sun, his internal ••nce is of great ability, and good for all such things you ••d to apply him unto: and being brought into its due ••ration, then the sons of men are beholding unto him, •ch were loaden with the falling sicknesse, and other dis∣•s: the ten Lepers run after him, and desire to drink of bloud of his Soul, and all such that are diseased rejoyce •••ly in his spirit. For he that drinketh of this golden •••ain, feeleth himself throughly renewed in his Na∣••, all evil things are taken away, the bloud is strength 〈◊〉 the heart receiveth strength, and all the Members are 〈◊〉 full vigour, it openeth all Pores and Nerves, expel∣ling
Page 14
their malignities, that goodnesse may come into th• places.

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

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

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

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

The second Key.
IN Courts of great Potentates, several sorts of drinks 〈◊〉 found, and none like the other in smell, taste, and ••¦lour, because they are of several preparations: however 〈◊〉 of them are drinkable, because they are fitted for seve•• places, and are necessary for the keeping of the Co•• When the Sun ejaculateth her rayes, spreading th••
Page 15
••der the Clouds, then the vulgar speech is, the Sun draw∣••h water, and it will rain: which being done often, that ••at proves fertil.

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

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

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

Even so, when our Bridegroom Apollo with his Bride 〈◊〉 is to be married, several Garments must first be made 〈◊〉 them, their heads and bodies must be well wash'd with ••er, which waters must be learn'd to be made by several ••••llings. For these waters do differ very much: some 〈◊〉 high; some are poor, according to the several uses they 〈◊〉 imployed unto; which I intimated, when I spoke of 〈◊〉 several sorts of drinks used in Princes Courts. And 〈◊〉, when the humidity from the earth ascendeth, and 〈◊〉 s••ne is drawn up, they conglomerate on high, their •••derousnesse maketh them fall down, thereby unto the ••th is restored her lost humidity, which refresheth the ••ath, giveth unto her a nourishment, whereby the vege∣•••les do spring up. Therefore some waters in their pre∣••ation must be often distilled, the abstracts must be of∣•• restored to the earth, must be drawn off again:
Page 16
Even as Euripus doth often disgorge it self to a cer•• period.

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

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

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

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

Page 17
The third Key.
WAter destroyeth fire, quencheth it quite: if abun∣dance of water be poured into little fire, then fire must yield unto water, giving way for the victory unto it. Thus our fiery Sulphur must with water be prepared, by Art must be conquered, if so be that after the separating of the water, the fiery life of our Sulphureous fume shall get the triumphing victorie. But here no victory can be ob∣tained, unlesse the King have bestowed strength and vertue unto his water, and have delivered unto it the Key of his Court colour, that be be destroyed thereby, and be made invisible: however, at this time his visible form must ap∣pear again, but with great diminution of his simple essence, and great melioration of his condition.

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

For our Sulphur doth not burn, yet giveth a light afar off, neither doth it tinge, unlesse it be prepared, and tinged freely with its own tincture, to give a further tin∣cture unto weak imperfect bodies of Metals. This Sulphur hath not a tinging quality, unlesse the tincture be given to it in a fixation: for a weak one cannot victorise, the stronger keepeth down the weaker, and weak things must yield unto strong ones. The conclusion herein is this: a weak and mean thing cannot help another, which is in the same frailty, neither can it import any furtherance to the ope∣ration of it; can one combustible protect another which is of the fame condition! A Protector must have a greater
Page 18
power than he, wh•m •e intend• to protect: so thing combustible must •e defended by •u•h, which in their fixa∣tion are incombustible. He that will prepare our incom∣bustible Sulphur of Philosophers, m•st be circumspect t• seek our Sulphur in a subj•ct, wherein it lieth incombustible, which cannot be, unlesse the Salt-Sea have first swallowed the body, and cast it up again freely, then •xalt it to ••s de∣gree, that it excel with its •ustre all other Stars in H•aven, and be in its substance as rich of bloud, as the Pellican is a• the opening of her breast, nourishing many of her Chie∣k•ns without the weakning of her own body. This is the Rose of our Masters, of a Scarlet colour, and the red blou• of the Dragon, of which so many have written, and is th•• Purple mantle of the highest Commander in our Ar•, where∣with the Queen of salvation is clad and covered, and there∣by all needy Metals may be wa••'d.

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

The fourth Key.
ALl flesh begotten of earth, must be destroyed and re∣urn to earth again, which it was at first: then that ter∣restrial Salt affordeth a new birth by heavenly resuscitation: for if there be nor first an earth, there cannot ensue any resurrection in our work. For earth containeth that natu∣ral Balsam, and is the Salt of those, which sought for it by a knowledge of all things, (or universal knowledge) the final judgement of the world will be by fire, which the great Creator at first made of a nothing, must by fire he
Page 19
turn'd to ashes again, out of these ashes the Phoenix bring∣•• forth again her Chickens; For these ashes contain real∣•• the true Tartar, which must be dissolved, after its dis∣••lution the firm and strong lock of the royal room is ••ened.

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

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

Men burn Lyme of stones, to make use of them for a Cement in buildings; before the fire prepareth it thereun∣to, it is a stone, and cannot be used for a Cement, as long as it is a hard stone: fire bringeth stones unto a maturity, and receiveth from the fire a very hot degree, whereby it is strengthned, and groweth so potent, that there is almost no∣thing comparable unto it, the fiery spirit of Lyme.

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

That Artist, which wanteth ashes, cannot make any Salt for our Art: because our work cannot be made lively with∣out Salt, for the coagulation of things worketh meerly the Salt. As Salt preserveth things from putrefaction, even so
Page 20
the Salt of Philosophers protecteth Metals, that they canno• be reduced to a nothing, unlesse their Balsom die, and the natural Salt spirit be gone, then their body would be dea• and nothing further could be effected with it, because th• Metalline spirits are gone, and at their natural departin• left a dead dwelling, into which no more life can b• brought again.

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

And if of these Artists were ne're so many,
Whose aime at me is directed onely,
Yet few of them in their successe were blest,
To fathom all vertues that lie in my breast.
The fifth Key.
THe life of earth maketh spring up Vegetables, and he that saith that the earth is dead, tells an untruth, for a dead thing cannot impart any livelynesse to another, and the increase is at a stay in dead things, because the spirit of life is fled: The spirit is the life and soul of the earth, which dwelleth in her, receiveth its efficacy upon earthly things from heavenly Astrals: for all Vegetables, Metals, and Mine∣rals receive their power, increase, and nourishment from the spirit of the earth. For the spirit is the life, which is fed by Astrals, which further imparts a nourishment unto growing things: as the Childe lieth hid in the Mothers Womb, and is fed there by the Mother: so the earth feed∣eth
Page 21
Minerals also, which lie hid in her belly by a spirit, which she receiveth from above: the earth doth afford no power per se, but the living spirit, which dwelleth in her doth it, and if she should want her spirit, then she were dead, and could afford no nourishment, because from her Sulphur, or fatnesse, the spirit is taken away, which pre∣serveth living powers, and driveth forth Vegetables, and other growing things by a nutriment.

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

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

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

One Declaration more I must hold forth unto you in this Chapter: Man that looketh into a glasse, seeth a reflexion of his image, but is not palpable, save the glasse, the party looked into: so from this matter must be expell'd a visible spirit, which is incomprehensible, the same spirit, I say, is the root of the life of our body, and the Mercury of Philo∣sophers, out of which the liquid water in our Art is pre∣pared,
Page 22
which in its composition you must make again ma∣terial, and must prepare it by certain means, from the lowest to the highest degree into a transcendent Medicine. For our beginning is an up-shut comprehensible body, its middle is a volatile spirit, and in the goldish water there is no corrosivenesse at all, whereby our Philosophers pro∣long'd their lives: but the end thereof is a superfix'd Me∣dicine for humane, and metalline bodies; this knowledge indeed fitteth Angels better than man: True, men attain unto that knowledge also, obtaining the same of God by their earnest prayers, who are thankfull unto him for it, and beneficial to the needy.

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

Page 23
The sixth Key.
MAn without a woman is but half a body, and so the woman without the man is but half a body neither, •or each apart can preduce no fruit: but living together in a matrimonial way, then is their body perfect, and by their seed they may expect an increase.

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

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

For the obtaining of a wish'd aim and scope care must be had, that a certain measure, or quantity be taken in the conjunction of the Philosophick liquid substance, that the greater quantity do not over-lay the lesser part, and be sup∣press't thereby, and the increase and growing of it be ob∣structed. Let the lesser be not too weak for the bigger, let there be an equal domination. Too much rain spoyleth the fruit, and too great drought hindreth true maturity. Therefore if Neptune hath prepared a perfect water-Bath, then take a just quantity of your aqua permanens, have a great care, you do neither too much nor too little. A dou∣ble fiery man must be fed with a white Swan, these must kill each other, and both must revive again, and the a••• of the four corners of the World must possesse three parts of the up-shut dwelling of the fiery man, that the Swans
Page 24
song may be heard, when she harmoniously sings her fare∣well; then the roasted Swan will be a food for the King, and the fiery King will be in great love with the pleasant voice of the Queen, and embrace her friendly out of a great love, and take his fill of her, both will vanish, and en∣ter into one body.

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

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

The seventh Key.
NAtural calidity preserveth mans life: for when natural heat is gone, then the life is at an end. Natural fire, being moderately used, is a defence against cold: but an im∣moderate heat is destructive. There is no necessity that ••e Sun should touch the earth corporally with her whole
Page 25
substance, it is sufficient that the earth be strengthned by 〈◊〉 rayes, which she ejaculateth unto the earth, and doth •hat way her duty, for in that way she is of a sufficient ••cacy, to perform her office, bringing things unto matu∣••• by her digestion: for the distance of the aire bringeth 〈◊〉 solar rayes into a temperature, so by means of the aire 〈◊〉 fire doth work, and the aire worketh by the help of 〈◊〉.

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

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

Thus one year worketh after the other, so long till •he Architect thereof pulls them down, and the Inhabitants •f the earth be exalted by the glory of God, then all earth∣•y. Nature will be at an end in her working, and in its place ••ere will be an infinite eternal one. When the Sun in Win••r goeth further off from us, she doth not dissolve so
Page 26
well the great snow, but approaching nearer to us, th n 〈◊〉 aire groweth warmer, and the snow is easily melted, a• being turn'd to water, it is gone: for the weake• must g•• way unto the stronger: The same order must be observed the government of the fire, that the moist liquor m•y 〈◊〉 be exiccated too suddenly, and the Philosophick earth 〈◊〉 not to soon mel ed and dissolved, else your wholes•m fis•• would turn into Scorpions: and if you intend to be a ri•• minister in your office, then •ake first your spiritual wa•• on which the spirit moved at the beginning, shut the do• of the strong hold upon him, because this heavenly pl•• will be besieged by earthly enemies, your heaven must 〈◊〉 guarded with three Bull-warks, onely one entrance m•• be strongly guarded with a watch. All this being finish'• then kindle the light of wisdom, and look for your pen•• you lost; let the light be of that bignesse, as you see the• is occasion for. For you must know tha• creeping b••• and worms have their dwelling in a cold and moist e••• their condition and no are leads them thereunto: h•¦mans habitation is upon earth, according as his temp••• and mixed condition ••quireth, but Angelical spirits ••¦ving not an earthly, but an Angelical body, not being i• subjection unto a sinfull flesh, as man is, are placed into higher station, are able to endure both heat and cold in t•• upper and neather Region, without any molestation: an• when man is clarified, then will he be able to do like the•• heavenly spirits: God ruleth heaven and earth, and worket• all in all.

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

Page 27
The eighth Key.
NO flesh, be it of mans, or of beasts, can bring any fur∣ther increase, or propagation, unlesse it come first in∣to putrefaction. So all Vegetables, unlesse their seeds be brought into putrefaction, cannot be augmented: Many beasts and worms are generated by putrefaction, this my∣stery in Nature deserves admiration! Nature permitteth this, because this living increase is for the most part found in the earth, which with other Elements are so raised by spiritual seeds. To prove this with examples, women in Villages know to give instances in that particular: for these cannot hatch any Chickens, unlesse they put the Eggs into putrefaction. If bread be put into honey, then the Ants are bred, which is one of Natures mysteries! It is seen or∣dinarily that Maggots do breed in flesh, in men, and horses, and such like Carcases, in Apples, Pears, &c. and who is able to relate all the kindes of worms, which are generated by putrefaction.

Some Vegetables also grow in certain places, where ne∣ver such grew formerly, nor were they sowed in those pla∣ces, onely by putrefaction they were produced, the reason of it is, that the earth in such places it inclined thereunto, and is impregnated thereby, which the syderial qualities have infused, and wrought a seed into, especially, which seeds putrifie in the earth, and by the elemental operation do generate a corporeal matter, according to that matter's quality. Thus the Astrals together with the Elements may raise a new seed, which was never before any, which seed by a further putrefaction may be encreased. But unto 〈◊〉 is not so much granted, as to stir up a new kinde of seed, because the operation of the Elements, and the ••stral substance he hath not at command, to fashion what 〈◊〉 ple•••• th•• several sorts of Herbs are generated meer∣ly
Page 28
by putrefaction: And whereas the Countrey people hold∣ing it a meer custom, do not take it into a further consi∣deration, nor imagine they any cause for it; therefore among the vulgar is it become meerly a customary businesse. Bu• you, which ought to know more than ordinary people must consider further of it, and learn to know the caus• and ground thereof, how, and from what these living Creatures are generated by putrefaction; not to know i• because it is usual; but rather to know, it is a mystery i• Nature, because every life cometh from pu••efaction.

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

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

The El•ment fire, if it be driven into a visible substance by extraction each may be received apart. In like manne• in the aire the other three Elements do dwell. For non• of these can be without aire; earth can produce nothin• without ai•e, fire doth not burn, nor hath it any life wit•¦out
Page 29
aire; neither can water produce any fruit without aire. Neither can aire consume any thing, nor exsiccate any moisture, unlesse it be done by a natural heat, which is •n the aire: being heat and warmth is found in the aire, •herefore needs must the Element of fire be in the aire. For all hot and dry things are proper for the fiery substance •f things: he that denieth this truth, understandeth no∣•hing in Natures mysteries, neither doth he know any •round of their properties.

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

Then note, that as Adam the first man being created by •he Creator of a Limus terrae, there appeared not as yet ane ••sible life, before God had breathed on him; then a lify •ppeared in that clod of earth, in that earth was the Salt, ••at is the body, the inbreathed aire was Mercury, the spi∣••, by this inbreathing the aire presently afforded a due ••d convenient calidiry, which was Sulphur, that is, fire, ••en it stirr'd; Adam sh•wed by this stirring, that there was •••sed into him a living Soul. For fire cannot be without
Page 30
aire, the water was corporated in the earth, because this must be together of necessity, else no life, and must stand in an equal proportion. Thus Adam was first builded and begotten out of earth, water, aire, and fire, of a soul, body, and spirit, raised of Mercury, Sulphur, and Salt. So Eve• the first woman, the Mother of us all was of the same com∣posed, being taken from Adam; thus Adam and Eve were builded, which you must note very well.

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

Note this also; wine containeth a volatile spirit: a• whose distilling its spirit cometh first, and its phlegme at last: but wine being by a continued heat turn'd into Vine∣gar, then its spirit is no more so volatile as before, and at the distilling of Vinegar its phlegme and aquosity cometh first, and its spirit at last, though the same matter be in the Vessel, yet its condition is altered, being no more a wine, but by putrefaction is transmuted into Vinegar, and that which is extracted from wine, is of another nature and ope∣ration, than that which is drawn from Vinegar. For i• Vitrum Antimony be extracted with Wine, or spirit o• Wine, it causeth many stools by purging, and vomits also, because its venom is not yet quite broken nor destroyed: but if Antimonial glasse be extracted with distilled Vine∣gar, that extraction is of a deep colour, this Vinegar being abstracted in Bal•e• Mari•, and the yellow remai•••
Page 31
powder being well dulcified with distilled water, to get off all its accrosity, then you have a sweet powder, which causeth no more any stools, but is a rare Medicine of admirable efficacies, may well be held for miraculum Me∣dicinae.

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

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

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

And I say thus much: though Satu•n looks of a despi∣cable condition, and is in great contempt, yet doth he
Page 32
contain all vertues and strength, •f his glorious substance which is of an extraordinary coldnesse, be driven into th• running fiery Metalli•• body, to b•reave that of its running life, and bring it to a plyable body as Satu•n himself is however of a far better fixation; which transmutation hath it's original, and certain period by Mercurie, Sulphur, and Salt. Some may hold this to be hardly understood, and i• is a hard saying: seeing the matter is mean, men mus• stretch thei• w•s in this point: an unequal state must be in the world, ther• must be a difference betwixt master and servant and must be distinct in their service.

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

When Lady Venus possesseth her Kingdom, and accord∣ing to custom observed in Royal Courts, distributeth the Offices, as is fitting, then they make appearance in thei• glory: Musica beareth a flag of red colour, on which is painted Charity beautifull in a green Garb: in her Cour••Saturn is in the place of the Steward: when he is in his Of∣fice, then Astronomy carrieth a black flag before him; o• which is painted Fides, in a yellow and red Garb. Jupiter with his Scepter is Marshal; Rhetorica beareth before him a flag of gray colour, on which is painted Spes curiously set out in colours. Mars is expert in warlike affairs, bear∣eth sway in a fiery thirsti••ss•; Geometry beareth before him a bloudy flag, on which is painted Fortitude, in a red Garb: Mercurie is Chancellour, Arithmetica beareth a flag before him of all manner of colours; on it, is painted Temp•∣rantia, dress't in colours. Sol is Vice-Roy of the Kingdom, Grammatica beareth a yellow flag before him, on it, is
Page 33
painted Justitia, set out in a Golden piece: this Vice-Roy, (though there is more loyalty shewed unto him in the King∣dom) yet Queen Venus in her transcendent illustrious splen∣dour overcome's him. Lune hath her lustre also; Dialectica beareth before her a Silver coloured white glistering flag; on it, is painted Prudentia in an Azur-Garb. Because Lune's husband died, she got the Office by inheritance, will not suffer Venus to bear sway any longer, called her to an ac∣count of her Stewardship; into whose aid and assistance comes in the Chancellour, and a new government is esta∣blished, and both bear sway above the noble Queen; the meaninng is, one Planet must dispossesse and displace the other from his glory, office, place, and power, that the best at last may rise to the highest power, and in their best fix'd colour, bestowed on them by their first mother out of an innate constancy, love and amity may get the victory. Then is the old world past, and a new world is come in it's place, and one Planet hath consumed the other spiri∣tually; onely the strongest hold out by means of the food which others afforded, and so two and three are conquered by One.

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

If there stood all the worlds nature
Meerly in one onely figure,
And Art could not mend that form,
Then the worlds wonders were forlorn,
Page 34
And natures qualities could not be shewed,
But it's otherwise, for which God be praised.
The tenth Key.
IN our stone which I have made, and others also along be∣fore me, are lockt up Elements, all mineral and metal∣line forms; yea, all the properties and qualities of the world: for in it there must be found the greatest and most forcible heat; for by its great internal fire the cold body of Saturn is warm'd, and by that kindling and heating is transmuted into the best Gold. There must be found in i•• also the greatest coldnesse, because it being added to Ve∣nus, it allayeth the degree of her heat, and doth coagulate quick Mercury, and in that coagulation also is he transmu¦ted into the best Gold. The reason of it is, because na∣ture hath infused all these qualities into the matter of our great stone, which qualities must be digested and brought unto maturity per gradus ignis, and attain unto the highest perfection, which comes not to passe, unlesse Mount Ae•na in Sicilia be consumed by its fire, and no more cold be felt on the supposed high Mountains, Hyperboreis, which place may be called also Filictus.

Fruits being pluckt off before they be fully ripe, are nought, and shrink, and are unfit for use: if a Potter doth not sufficiently burn his Potters wares, what use can these be put unto? The same condition is our Elixar in: it must have allowed a due time, it must not be shortned in its welfare, no false thing must be imposed upon, else an asper∣sion of unworthinesse will be cast upon it. For if blossoms be pluckt off, we are sure that no fruits will grow on such Trees. Therefore making haste in our Magisterium is not good, a hastning man seldom doth any good work in our Art, because by making haste good things are spoyled. Let no seeker be deceived by greedinesse, either to take out
Page 35
or to pluck off things before their time, that the Apple ••p ••t out of his hand, and the steel of it stay in his hand: for 〈◊〉 good troth, if our stone be not sufficiently ripened, then •hat matters can it produce to any ripenesse?

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

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

Page 36
The eleventh Key.
THis Key intimateth our great stone's augmentation, which I hold forth unto thee by way of comparison▪ There dwelt in the Orient an excellent Champion, called Orpheus, which was mighty rich, and had great Dominions, he took in marriage his own sister, by name Eurydice, mad• use of her as his wife. Because he could not get any issu•• by her, the cause whereof he thought to be the sin, he com∣mitted in choosing his own sister to be his wife: he besough• the Highest constantly in great earnestnesse, wrestling with him for a blessing in that kinde.

Being one time taken with a deep sleep, in his dream there came a flying man unto him, by name Phoebus, he toucht his feet, which were very warm, and said to him▪ Thou noble Champion, thou hast travelled over many King∣doms and Countreys, many Cities and potent Dominions, and hast undergone great hardnesse at Sea, and hazardedst many battles in War, which made thee to attain unto that gallant state, and wert chosen before others to be digni∣fied with honour, and gottest many applaudings by rea∣son of thy valiantnesse thou shewedst in those warlike acti∣ons: therefore the father in heaven hath commanded me, to shew unto thee that thy prayers were heard, and hast obtained this grant; thou art to take the bloud out of thy right side, and the bloud of thy wife's left side, and the bloud which did stick in the hearts of thy Father and Mo∣ther, these are but two by natures right, and are but one sort of bloud, unite these together, and let it enter again into the globe of the seven wise Masters closed nakedly, then is the mighty one fed with his own flesh, and drencht with his own bloud of honour. If thou proceedest well herein, then hast thou a great inheritance, and begettest an infinite multitude, descending from thine own body.
Page 37
Yet know, that the last seed, in the eighth revolution of the ••me, the first seed out of which thou art made in the begin∣•ing, will bring its course to an end: if thou dost this oftner, •nd beginnest alwayes de novo, then thou shalt see thy Chil∣•rens Children. A Macrocosme g•nerated by Microcosme, is •lentifully filled, and the Kingdom of the great Creator is ••lly possessed.

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

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

The twelfth Key.
A Fencer who knoweth not well how to use his Wea∣pons, must needs be beaten by him, that knoweth better how to use them; he that learned in the Fencing
Page 38
School perfectly how to use all manner of Weapons, 〈◊〉 will get the Garland in that School.

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

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

The Medicine and well prepared Philosophers stone be¦ing made of the true Virgins milk, which was fully p••¦pared, then take one part of the best and finest Gold, ca•• through Antimony, laminate it very thinly, as possibly 〈◊〉 may be beaten, put these together in a Vessel, or meltin• For, at first let your fire be gentle for xij hours, then let 〈◊〉 continually be in the melting for three dayes and night• then the purged Gold and Stone is turned into a meer Me¦dicine, of a subtile spiritual penetrating qualitie; for with¦out the ferment of Gold ye Medicine, or Stone cannot wel• make the tincture, being too subtile and too penetrative 〈◊〉 but being fermented with its like, then the made tinctur• hath gotten an ingresse to work into the other. Then take one part of the prepared ferment to thousand parts o• melted Metal, which you intend to tinge: I tell you for 〈◊〉 certain truth, all will be transmuted into perfect fix'd Gold• for the one body willingly embraceth the o her, though it be not of the like, yet joyneth with it by force, and must be like unto it, and like must be gotten of like.

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

O! beginning of the first beginning! consider the end 〈◊〉 O! end of the last ends consider the beginning: forget not
Page 39
to •emember the middle in all fidelity: God the Father, 〈◊〉, and holy Ghost grant unto you things needfull for ••r Spirit, Soul, and Body.

Of the first matter of the Philosophers Stone.
THere is found a stone, which is not deer,
Out of it is drawn a flying fire,
Of which the stone it self is made
Of whi•e and red togeth'r joyn'd.
It is a stone, and not a stone,
In it Nature work'th alone,
Out of it springs a Fountain clearly,
Which drowns its fix'd Father fully.
His life and body is both devoured,
At last his Soul to him is restored.
To whom his flying Mother is become
Like, in his own Kingdom.
Himself also in quality and might
Hath gotten a greater strength,
The Son in old age doth excel
The Mother, which is made volatil,
By Vulcans Art, but first however
By the Spirit must be born the Father
Body, Soul, Spirit, consist in two
The whole businesse goeth too and fro.
Comes onely from one, which is meerly
A thing that fix• to flying matters sully.
They ••e two and three, and yee but one
Con• ive of it right, else you hit none▪
Set Adam into a water Bath,
In which Venus her fellow hath
Which the old Dragon hath prepared,
Wher'of his strength could not be 'stored

Is nothing else, saith one Philosophus,
But a duplicate Mercurius.
I say no more, you heard its name,
Blest is he, to whom it is well known.
Search into it, spare no pains
In the end you will finde the gain's.
FINIS.

---

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

With an Elucidation thereof, touching the Philosophers Stone.

Wherein is plainly demonstrated the true light unto Philosophie.

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

LONDON, Printed Anno Domini, MDCLVI.

〈1 page missing〉
Page 2
be sure to finde the true way unto the sheep-fold. I hav• written no more then I shall bear record unto, and own a• the day of Resurrection

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

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

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

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

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

Note, I hold in my second Key that Gold after it is pu••¦fied according to the Tenor of the second Key, must be re¦duced into a special water, and then reduced into a subtill Calx, of which the fourth Key doth speak, this Calx must b• driven over through the Helmet by a spirit of Salt, and pre¦cipitated again, and by reverberating must be brought to
Page 3
powder; then its own Sulphur may enter the better into its own being •nd essence, will be friend with it; for these love extreamly one another: thus you have two substances in one, which is called the Philosophers Mercurie, and is but one substance. This is the first ferment.

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

Now I declare also, what the Philosophers Salt meaneth.
SAlt causeth fixation and volatility, according 〈…〉••∣lered and prepared. For the spiri• ou of Salt ••d •ar∣tar,
Page 4
if the same be drawn forth without additionals, by means of dissolution and putrefaction maketh all Metals vo∣latile, opening them into a true quick Mercury, according to the Tenor of my Manuals. The Salt of Tartar per s• fixeth mightily, especially if the heat of Calx vive be in∣corporated with it, for both are of a high degree for fix∣ation, The Vegetable Salt of wine hath this fixing quality and according to a special preparation, bringeth fixed thing• to a volatility: which is a mystery in Nature, and a miracl• in the Philosophick Art.

If there be a Salt made of Mans Urine, which drinks no∣thing but wine; this Salt being volatile, brings fix'd thing• also to a volatility, brings them over, but doth not fix them. Though that party had drunk nothing but wine, out o• whose Urine the Salt is made, yet that Salt differs much from that, which is made of Tartar, for man made in his body one transmutation, namely, he turned the V•getabl• Salt into an Animal spirit of Salt, making flesh, fatnesse, &c▪ as horses and other beasts do feeding on grasse, hay, &c.

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

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

I say thus also, if the spirit of common Salt be unite• with spirit of wine, and both are drawn over a third time▪ then he loseth its tartnesse, and groweth sweet. This pre∣pared sp•••• doth not corrode the Solar body, but bein• poured on a subtile prepared Gold Calx, it extracteth i• highest red tincture, which being made right, can brin•
Page 5
white Lune into that colour as its former body was, from •hich it was first taken: the former body can recover i•s •olour, if the inticing Venus be moved, as being born from •hat sanguinity and descent, it is needlesse to speak of this •ny further.

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

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

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

Page 6
Thanks be to God.
FOr a final upshut, be certified, that our of black Sat••• and bountifull Jupiter, there can be driven over a spi•i• which is afterward brought into a sweet Oyl, as the nobles• part of it, which in particular taketh away the running quality in Mercury, making him fix, and bringing him in¦to a melioration; of this I told you in my other wri••ngs.

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

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

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

Page 7
For he that hath the matt•r, will soon finde a Furnace; 〈◊〉 that hath Meal, wil• soon meet with an Oven; needs not 〈◊〉 take further care for baking of bread.

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

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

There are Medicaments prepared of it, of a wonderfull efficacy, of several sorts and forms, which is the reason, why there is such a variety of vertues therein: in Mercury lieth hid the highest arcanum for mans health, but is not to be used crude, but must first be prepared into its essence. He is sublimed with Copper-water, and is further reduced into an Oyl. There is an Oyl made of it per se, without any corrosivenesse, which is pleasant and fragrant: several •orts of Oyls with additionals can be made of it, good for many things. It is prepared also with Gold, being first made
Page 8
into an amalgame there is made a precipitate of it in w•¦ter, wherein it dissolveth green, like unto a smarag'd, Chrysolith: the volatile Mercury serveth for outward u• if a separation is made by some means, and is brought i• to subtile clear liquor, & then to a red brown powder, a• its received corrosivenesse is separated, then it may dow• for other uses.

The mixed Mercury serveth for inward use.

Mercury being purg'd, is precipitated with the bloud Venus, is well digested with distill'd Vineger, and thus 〈◊〉 corroding quality is taken off: Have a care what quanti•• you minister, if it being given in a true dose, then it doth 〈◊〉 part ve•y well: but for its operation, it is not equally su•¦limed unto the fixed, its coagulation is sound in Satu•• his malleablenesse is apparent, when he is robb'd of h• life: he containeth his own Tincture upon white and re• being brought in his fix'd coagulation unto a white bod• is iug'd again by Vitriol-water, and being reduced un•• Gold, is graduated by An•imony. Though that blou••-thi•¦sty ••on Captain with his Spear assaulteth Mercuri• ve•• much, yet he alone cannot conquer him, unlesse co••Saturn come in to hide him, and Jupiter command t•• peace with his Scepter. Such processe being finish'd, the• the Angel Gabriel, the strength of the Lord, and U•iel th• light of God hath shew'd mercy un•o humble Michael, the•Raphael can make right use of the highest Medicine, no¦thing can prevail against ye Medicine. Thus much be spo¦ken of Mercurie: now I winge my self from hence, and f•• to a place where frost and heat can better be tolerated, an• endured.

Of Antimony.
IT falleth very difficult to Mechanicks, to have done learn¦ing with their compasses: because that great Architec• JEHOVAH hath reserved many things for his ow•
Page 9
power. In the same condition we finde Antimony, it is •ery difficult to finde out all the mysteries that are hid ••erein; its vertue is miraculous, its power is great, its •olour hidden therein, is various, its crude body is poyso∣•ous, yet its essence is an antidote against poyson, is like •nto Quick-silver, which ignorant Physicians can neither •omprehend, nor finde; but the knowing Physician belie∣•eth it to be true, as having made many experiments with it.

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

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

Besides, there are made of common Regulus of Antimony
Page 10
curious flowers, either red, yellow, or white, according 〈◊〉 the fire hath been govern'd. These flowers being ex•••¦ed, and the extract, without any addition per se being dr•¦ven into an Oyl, have an admirable efficacy. This ex¦traction may be made also with Vinegar of crude Antimo¦ny, or of its Regulus; but it requireth a longer time, neith•• is it so good as the former preparation.

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

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

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

Page 11
A further processe may be made with this Oyl with the ••dition of a water, made of stone Serpents, and other ne∣••ssary spices, not those which are transported from the In∣••s: this powder is of that efficacie, that it radically cureth •ny Chronical diseases.

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

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

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

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

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

Page 12
The Quintessence of Antimony is the highest Medicin• the noblest and subtilest found in it, and is the fourth p•• of an Universal Medicine. Let the preparation of it 〈◊〉 still a mystery, its quantity, or Dose is three Grains, the 〈◊〉 belong four instruments to the making of it, the Furnace the fifth, in which Vulcan dwelleth, the Manuals and th• government of fire afford the ordering of it.

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

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

Observe it diligently, and remember every word, for they are of a large extent, every word is as ponderous as a Centner stone. The white spirit is sowr, causeth an appe∣tite, and a good digestion in a mans stomach. The red spi∣rit is yet sowrer, and is more ponderous than the white, in its distilling a longer fire must be continued, because it is fixer in its degree. Of the white by distilling of Sulphur
Page 13
of Lune is made argentum potabile. In the like manner the •ld, being destroyed in the spirit of common Salt, and •de spiritual by distilling, and its Sulphur taken from it, ••d joyned with a red spirit in a due Dose, that it may be ••ssolved, and then for a time putrified in spirit of wine, to 〈◊〉 further digested, and often abstracted, that nothing •main in the bottom, then you have made an aurum po∣•bile, of which great volumes have been written, but very •w of their processes were right. Note, that the red spirit •ust be rectified from its acidity, and be brought into a •eetnesse, subtilly penetrating of a pleasant taste and sweet •agrancy.

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

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

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

There is made of Copper and V•rdigreece a Vitriol of a •igh degree, and is far spread in its tincture: There is a
Page 14
Vitriol made of Iron also, which is of a strange quality: Iron and Copper are very nigh kind one to another, bel• together, as man and wife; this mystery should have b• concealed, but being it is of great concernment, I could forbear but to speak of it.

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

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

The things I w•ite of Vitriol, I have not begg'd nor bo•¦rowed from other mens writings, but found them so in 〈◊〉 long continued practick, whereby nature enabled me become a Sooth-sayer, by permission of the Highest Creat••
Page 15
that that nobly inplanted quality might be avouched b• a ••thfull and true evidence of one of her devoted Disci∣•es.

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

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

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

The Quint-essence of Sulphur is in a Mineral, where a •ulphureous flint is generated: this beaten peebles being ••t in a glasse, and on it be powred a strong Aquafort,
Page 16
made of Vitriol and Salpeter, and let dissolve what may 〈◊〉 dissolved, abstract that water, the remainder must be w•• dulcified, and reverberated to a rednesse, pour on th•• spirit of wine, extract its tincture, afterward circulate 〈◊〉 a time in the Pellican, let all the essence of Sulphur be ••¦parated, it stayeth below the spirit of wine, like far Sall• Oyl, by reason of its ponderousnesse: its Dose of six Grai• is found to work sufficiently. If y•u dig•st in this essen•• of Sulphur, Myrrhe, Aloes, and other Spices, it extrac• their vertues, and makes it into a Balsam, which suffers 〈◊〉 flesh, or other parts that are subject unto putrefaction, 〈◊〉 fall into rottennesse, for which cause the Ancients have p• this name to it: Balsamus mortuorum.

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

Of Calx vive.
THe secrets of Quick-lyme is known to few men, an• few there are, which attained to a perfect knowledg• of its qualities: but I tell to you a real truth, that thoug• Lyme is contemptible, yet there lieth great matters there¦in, and requireth an understanding Master, to take out of 〈◊〉 what lieth buried in it; I mean to expel its pure spiri•
Page 17
which collaterally stands in affi•ity wi•h Minerals, is able to binde, and help to make fix the volatile spirits of Mine∣rals: for it is of a fiery essence, heateth, concocteth, and bring•th unto maturity in short time, when in many years they could not be brought to it: the g•osse earthly body of •t doth not do the fear, but its spirit d•th it, which is drawn out of i•: this spirit is of that ab•li•y, that he bindeth and fixeth other volatile spirits. For note, the spirit dissolveth Oculi Can•rorum, dissolveth Crystals into a l•quor• these two being duely brought into an •••ite per monum distilla∣••onis (I will say nothing 〈◊〉 this time of Diamonds and such ••ke stones) that wa•er dissolveth and breaketh the stone 〈◊〉 the bladder, and the Gou•y T••t•r settled into the •oyn•s of hands and feet, suff rs not any Gout to •ake roo•〈◊〉 those parts, this rare s••r t l taught one of my faithfull Di•ciples; and the great Chancellor of the invinci•le Caesar•s still thankfull unto me for it, and many great persons •esides.

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

Of Arsenick.
ARsenick is in the kindred of Mercury & Antimony, as a Bastard in a Family may be: its whole substance is •bysonous and volatile, even as the former two, in its ex∣••rnal colour to the eye, it is white, yellow, and red, but ••wardly it is adorned with all manner of colours, like to 〈◊〉 Metals, which it was fain to forsake, being forced there∣unto
Page 18
by fire. It is sublimed per se, without addition, and also in its subliming there are added several other matters, as occasion requireth. If it be sublimed with Salt and Mars, then it looks like a transparent Crystal, but its poy∣son stayeth still with it, unfit to be joyned, or added to Metals; hath very little efficacie to transmute any Metal.

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

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

I Arsen•c say of my self at the closing hereof, that it is 〈◊〉 very difficult thing, to finde my right and due preparation• my operation is felt exceedingly, if made tryal of, and it i• a great danger, if ignorant men make use of me: he tha• can be without me, let him go to my kindred: and if yo• can equalize me with them, that I may share with them i• the inheritance, then all the world shall acknowledge, th•• my descent is from their bloud: but it is a very hard ta••
Page 19
for any man, to set a shepheard into a royal seat to make him King. But Patriarchs being descended from shepheards, and were preferr'd to royal dignities, I will therefore pre∣scribe no limits, nor p•sse any judgement: For wrong and right may be found in this leaf.

However, take you notice, that I am a poysonous volatile bird, have forsaken my dearest, and most confiding friend, and separated my self as a Leper, which must live aloof off from other men. Cure me first of my infirmity, then I shall be able to heal those, which have need of me, that my praise may be confirmed by poyson, and my name for an ever∣lasting remembrance, to the honour of my Coun•rey, is no∣thing inferior unto Marcus Curtius, and it will be found in the end, in what manner Hannibal and Scipio were recon∣ciled.

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

I am a greater cooler outwardly than Saturn, but my spi∣rit is more hot than any, I cool, and burn, according as men will make use of me, and according as I am pre∣pared.

When Metals are to be broken, I must be a help, else no victory can be obtained: be the undertakings great, or small. Before I am destroyed I am a meer Ice, but when I am
Page 20
anatomized, then am I a meer hellish fire. If Pluto ca• master Cerberus, to make him •ake his dwelling again in th• Isle of Thule, then he may snatch a piece of love from Ve¦nus, then Mars must submit, and m•y live richly with Lu•• which may equally be exalted to the Crown of the ho¦nourable King, and be placed with him in equal honou• and dignity.

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

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

He that supposeth to transmute Metals with this Sa• which is so volatile, surely he doth not hit the nail on t• head, for it hath no such power: but to destroy Meta• and make them fit for transmutation, in that respect it ha• sufficient power: for no Metal can be transmuted, unle•
Page 21
it be first prepared thereunto. My greater strength which lieth in me, may be drawn from m• by subliming and ce∣menting. The greatest secret in m• you will finde, when I am united with Hydra, which is to devour and swallow me, that I also may turn with h•r to be a water Serpent, then have I prepared a Bath for the Nympha, and have gotten power to make ready a Crown for the King, that the same may be adorned with Jewels, and may with honour and glory be set on his head.

Of Tartar.
THis Salt is not set down in the book of Minerals, but is generated of a vegetable seed, but its Creator hath put such vertue into it, that it heareth a wonderfu•l love •nd friendship unto Metals, making them malleable▪ it purgeth Lune unto a whitenesse, and incorporateth into her such additionals, which are convenient for her, being digested for a time with Minerals, or Metals, and then sub∣•imed and vilified, they all come unto a quick Mercury, which to do, there is not any vegetable Salt beside it: is •ot this a wonderfull thing! That Oratour is yet to be born, which shall be of that ability and eloquence as to expresse •ufficiently all the mysteries hid in it. But to make out of •t the Philosophers stone, is no such matter: being it is a •egetable, and that power is not given to any of the v•ge∣•ables. It is in Medicina a very good remedy, to be used ••wardly and outwardly; its Salt being made spiritua•l and •weet, it dissolveth and breaketh the stone in the bladder, •nd dissolveth the coagulated Tartar of the Gou•, s•tled •nto the joynts, or any where besides. It's ordinary spi•it, which is used for opening of Metals being used and applied •utwardly, also layeth a foundation for healing of such Ul∣•ers, which admit hardly any healing, as there are ••s•••'s, •ancers, Wolves, and such like. I know nothing ni•••o
Page 22
write of Tartar, for having separated it self, and left it's no∣bl•st part in the wine.

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

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

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

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

N••e this for a memorandum, if distill'd pure Vinega• be poured upon destroyed Saturn, and is kept warm i•
Page 23
Marie's-Bath, it loseth it's acidity altogether, is as sweet as any Suggar, then abstract two, or three parts of that Vinegar, set it in a Cellar, then you will finde white trans∣parent stones, like unto Crystals, these are an excellent cooler and healer of all adust and inflamed Symptoms. If these Crystals are reduced into a red Oyl, and poured up∣on Mercury, precipitated by Venus, and proceeded in fur∣ther as it ought; if that be hit rightly, then neither Sol nor Lune will hinder thee from getting riches.

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

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

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

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

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

Page 24
Several wayes have been tried to draw, and to get the spirit of, Wine without sophistication, as by several instru∣ments and distillings with metalline Serpents, and othe• strange inventions, of Sponges, Papers, and the like▪ Some caused a rectified aqua vitae be frozen in the greates• frost, expecting the phlegme thereof should turn to Ice, the spirit thereof to keep liquid, but nothing was done to any purpose.

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

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

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

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

Page 25
If a rectified Aqua vitae be lighted, then Mercury and ••e Vegetable Sulphur separateth, that Sulphur burns •ight, being a mee• fire, the tender Mercury betakes him-•mself to his wings and flieth to his Chaos.

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

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

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

FINIS.

---

•ONCLUSIONS AND EXPERIMENTS OF BASILIUS VALENTINUS. PREFACE.

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

In the Treatise of the Philosophers stone I have set •own expresly in a parable the Philosophers Sulphur•n the XII. Keyes: but the Philosophers Mercury, or •he true Philosophick Magnet I gave a hint of in few

words: however, I treated of the same in the XI• Keyes, & of the prima materia I spoke in my Rythm• or Verses.

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

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

Page 1
The First TREATISE, Of Philosophers Sulphur, Vi∣triol, and Magnet.
First Section. Of Sulphur, and ferment of Philosophers.
LOving seeker of Chymical mysteries, I have written a Trea•ise about the Philosophers stone, and have set down expresly the ma∣teria of the Philosopher• Sulphur in the first Key, and taught you in the second Key how you ought to distil our water of the Eagle and cold Dragon, who had his dwelling a long time in Rocky Clifts, and crept in and out in Subterranean con∣cave and hollow places: pour this spirit, or aqua upon purged and fined Gold, lute it well, and set it into a disso∣lution, in fimo for 14. nights to putrifie it, then draw it over the Helmet, pour the water upon Gold Calx whole, make all the Gold come through the Helmet: set this a∣gain under a Helmet, abstract the water gently, leave a third part of it in the bottom, then set it into a Cellar, let it coagulate and Crystallize, wash these Crystals with di∣still'd
Page 2
water, precipitate them with Mercury vive, eva••¦rate the Mercury gently, then you have a sub•ile pow•• put it in a glasse, lute it, reverberate it for three dayes a• nights, do it gently, thus is the Philosophers Sulphur w• prepared for your work, and this is the purple mantle, 〈◊〉 Philosophick Gold, keep it safely in a glasse for your co•¦junction.

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

Therefore, if you have calcined the matter, then extra•• its Salt, rectifie it well, let it shoot into the Vitriol, whic• must be sweet, without any corrosivenesse, or sharpnesse o• Salt. Thus you ge• the Philosophers Vitriol, or Philoso•¦phick Oyl, make further of it a Mercurial water, thus yo• have perform'd an artificial work: this is called the Phil•¦sophers Azoth, which purgeth Laton, but is not yet wash'd
Page 3
Fo•Azoth washeth Laton, as the Ancient Philosophers have 〈◊〉 two, or three thousand years ago. For the Philosophick 〈◊〉, or Laton must with its own humidity, or its own Mer∣••al water be purg'd, dissolv'd, distill'd, attract its Magnet,〈◊〉 stay with it. And this is the Philosophers Mercury, or ••curius duplicatus, and are two spirits, or a spirit and ••r of the Salt of Metals. Th•n •his water beareth the me of succus Lunariae, aqua caelest•, acetum Philosophorum, ••a Sulphuris, aqua permanens, aqua benedicta. Take ••t, or ten parts of this water, and one part of your •men•, or Sulphur of Sol, set it into the Philosophers Egg, ••e it well, put it in the Athanar, into that vaporous, and •t dry si•e, govern it, to the appearance of a black, white, •d r•• colour, then you get the Philosophers stone, and •u enjoy this noble, dear, and blessed Medicine and Tin∣••re, and you may work miracles with it.

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

And this is now prima materia, alias praeda: materia pri∣•a belongs onely to God, and is coagulated in the entra•s •f the earth, first it turneth to Mercury, then to Lead, then 〈◊〉 Tin and Copper, then to Iron, &c. Thus the coagulated Mercury must by Art be turn'd into its prima materia, or water, that it, Mercurial water. This is a stone and no ••ne, of which is made a volatile fire, in form of a water,
Page 4
which drowneth and dissolveth its fix'd father, and its vo•¦tile mother.

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

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

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

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

Allegorical expressions betwixt the Holy Trinity and the Philosophers stone.
DEar Christian Lover, and well wisher to the blessed Art: how graciously and miraculously hath the Holy Trinity created the Philosophers stone. For God the Fa∣ther is a spirit, and yet maketh himself known under the notion of a man, as he speaketh, Genes. 1. Chapter: let us
Page 5
make man, an image •ike unto us. Item, this expression in his word speak of his mouth, eyes hands, and feet; so Philosophers Mercury is held a spiritual body, as Philoso∣phers call him. God the Father begetteth his onely Son JESUS CHRIST, which is God and Man, and is without sin, neither needed he to die: but he laid down his life freely, and rose again, for his brethren and sist•rs sake, that they mi•ht live with him eternally without sin. So is Sol, or Gold without defect, and is fix, holds out gloriously all fiery examins, but by reason of its imper∣fect and sick brethren and sisters, it dieth, and riseth glori∣ously, redeemeth and tingeth them unto eternal life, ma∣king them p•rfect unto good Gold.

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

Page 6

---

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

The first Section. Of Sulphurs.

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

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

3. Out of this Oyl is made a glorious Tinctur, if you take three parts of Mercury of Mars, and one part of this red Oyl of Saturn, joyning, coagulating, and fixing them: this work may be accomplished in a moneths time, or somewhat longer. This Tincture may be augmented with Mercury of Mars, usque in infinitum; projecting one part of it upon
Page 7
three parts of Sol, to make thereby an ingresse for the Tin∣cture: one part of this Tincture transmuteth thirty parts (if so be it be well prepared) of Mercurie and of Lune into good Sol. Remember thy Crea or, and be mindfull of the poor, then the Lord will be mindfu•l of thee also.

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

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

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

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

Page 8
Chap. III. Of Sulphurs of Mars and Venus.
1. TAke some pounds of Verdigreece, extract its Tin∣cture with distill'd Vinegar, let it shoot, then you have a glorious Vitriol, out of which you may distil per re∣tort a red Oyl. This Oyl dissolveth Mars turning into a Vi∣triol, which is reduced in a long time in a great fire unto a red Oyl, then you have together Sulphur of Mars and Ve∣nus, add somewhat of Sulphur of Sol, coagulate and fix it, then you have a Medicine, which meliorateth Men and Metals.

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

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

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

2. This Solar Sulphur tingeth prepared Calx of Lune in∣to good Gold, but you heard in my former expressions, that the King hath onely an honourable Garment, and must
Page 9
raise his Rents and subsidies from his subjects, must be ba∣thed in his buddying bloud and swear, must be destroyed and gloriously renew'd; then is he able to make his poor brethren and sisters to be Kings also, and legitimate the•r bastards.

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

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

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

Page 10
Chap. VI. Of Sulphur of Lune.
1. THis Lune is made spiritual by means of a water, ex∣pressed in our second Key, and may easily be made into potable silver, where by many diseases are cured.

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

Chap. VII. Of Antimonial Vitriol.
1. THere is made out of Vitriol of Antimony with di∣still'd Vinegar a sweet extraction, its acetum is sepa∣rated from it: on the remainder is poured spirit of wine, must be extracted, and the pure from impure separated. This sweet extraction is drawn over, the spirit of wine by cohobation is often drawn from it, and that powder is re∣duced to a glorious Oyl of Antimony.

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

2. Further, take one part of this Oyl, and two parts of the M•rcurial water, in which is dissolved a fourth part of Sol (purple Mantle) then joyn them, lute Hermetically, coagulate, and fix. This Tincture tingeth Lune and Mer∣curie into Sol. This is that pure Sulphur of Antimony:
Page 11
the Vitriol of Antimony must be made per se, without any addition of Salpeter, Salt, and Borras.

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

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

Chap. IX. Of common Sulphur.
1. THere is a Liver made of yellow Sulphur with Lin∣seed Oyl, boyled in Lye, with Sol〈◊〉 pu•rified, and then distill'd: pour this water on Tyle•, w•ich newly came out of the Oven, imbibe them the•ewith, di∣stil it per retortam, you have a yellow water of it like an aquafort, which tingeth Lune. Take one part of i••s wa∣ter, and one part of Luna• calx, let it sta d 〈◊〉 d•y•• and nights in warm Sand, the fou•th part of it tu••e 〈◊〉 unto
Page 12
Gold, being reduced, separated, purged, with Saturn and driven.

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

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

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

The second Section. Of Vitriols.
Chap. I. Of Vitriol of Sol, and of Lune.
IN the first place you must have our water of the cold Earth salt, and of the Eagle, whereby Gold and Silver is made spiritual, let it shoot into Crystals: this is that Metalline Vitriol, out of which is distilled together with spi∣rit of wine, and Oyl of Sulphur, to be used after the man∣ner of Metals.

Page 13
Chap. II. Of Vitriol of Saturn, and of Jupiter.
CAlcine Saturn, or Jup ter, ex•ract its anima with di∣still'd Vi•egar, l•t it pu•rifie 14. dayes and nights, let •he Vitriol shoot. This must be drive• over with spirit of wine, it affords a sweet Oyl, and it is the Su•phur of Saturn and Jupiter. This Oyl coagulateth Mercury, and being first precipitated with Oyl of Vitriol, it fixeth him.

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

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

Chap. IV. Of Vitriol of Venus.
I Have told you already of the transparent Vitriol to be extracted out of Venus, and to distil of it a red Oyl.
Page 14
This Oyl dissolveth Mars, turneth him into a Vitriol, bei•• once more distill'd per retortam forcibly, then you have a• excellent Tinging-oyl, called Salt of Mars. This is th• Kings excise man, which bringeth in his Rents, and enrich¦eth the King. This Oyl dissolveth the spiritual purple ma•¦tle, and draweth it over the Helmet. Now you have se•¦mented the Celar Sulphur with i•s own Sulphur, which Phi¦losophers before me have not done, they took onely cal¦cined Sol, or S•lar Calx, set the same to the duplicated Mer∣cury (instead of the fermen•) and attai•ed unto the en• they wish'd for, as well as I. But according as men do work, so is the operation of their Tincture, transmuting more, or lesse, according to the efficacie of the Tincture.

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

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

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

Page 15
2. This Oyl is joyned also with Martial Tinctures. For •er•ury is the bond of other Metals, and may be well used •ticulariter. The chiefest colour of Mercury is red, as ••u finde in my other writings.

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

Visitando Interiora Terrae,
Rectificandoque,
In venietis occultum Lapidem,
Veram Medicinam.
2. VItriol is calcined also to a red colour in a close Ves∣sel, on which is poured distilled Vinegar, and is set in putrefaction for three moneths, there is sound in a strong distillation, a quick Mercury, which you are to keep safe. Wonders may be effected therewith, upon Particulars and Universals.

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

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

Page 16
4. There is made a fix't water also, Salmiac and Allo• being added thereunto. This water being poured upon Su•¦phur of Jupiter, which before was precipitated in•o a re• powder, imbibed, and coagulated, and an ingresse be ma•• with Sol, then you have a Tincture, whereby c•ude Antim•¦ny is transmuted into good Lune, which may be transmute•• into Sol.

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

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

Sulphur is Vitriol.
Antimony is Mercary.
The third Section. Of vulgar Magnet.
1. MAgnet contains that, which common Mars hath. Common Iron may easily be wrought, needs not to make many words of it. Magnet hath an attractive quality to draw Iron.

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

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

Thus I finish'd my course, and found many things in my working. My fellow brethren turn'd Alchymists, all had
Page 17
the Philosophers stone. I was the beginner, took great ••us, before I attained to any thing, if you read my wri∣••gs diligently, you will finde the XII. Keyes the prima ••teria, or Philosophers Mercury, together with the Philo∣•phick Salt: the Philosophick Sulphur I delineated ex∣••sly.

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

Medium Tenuere Beati.
FINIS.

---

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

HAving gotten this Processe in the foresaid year, and and afterward, as you shall hear, with mine own hands elaborated and wrought the same, no man •ver-looking me, I was heartily rejoyced, even as if I had •een new born, and returned hearty thanks to God•: its •ractick at the first I have not plainly described, because I •ad erred in the composing of it, and was fain to begin the work anew. I having miss'd in my work, I begun in the •ear 1605. because the matter of the Earth, and the spirit •f Mercury was not sufficiently purged, therefore the earth •ould not perfectly be united at the composition with the water, I let that quite alone, and began a new Processe at •he end of the year 1605. in the Citie of Strasburg, used •ore diligence and exactnesse, then my work (God be prai∣••d) prospered better, for the which I am still thankfull to
Page 18
God for it. In the name of the H•ly Trinity, the 1•October, Anno 1605. I took ten pou•d of Vitriol, diss•• it in distilled Rain-water, being warm'd, let it stand 〈◊〉 day and a night, at that time many feces were setled, I•¦trated the matter, evaporated it gently, ad cuticulam us•• I set it on a cool place to crystallize, this on shot Vitri•• exiccated, dissolved it again in distilled Rain-water, l•• shoot again, which work I iterated so long, ti•l the Vi•• go• a coelestial g•een colour, having no more any feces a•••, and lost all its corrosivenesse, and was of a very plea•• taste.

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

I found my Chaos in the bottom of a dark rednesse, v• ponderous, which I poured into a Viol, sealed it Herme•• set it on a three-foot into a woodden globe into a v•¦porous hath made of water, where I left it so long, till 〈◊〉 was dissolved, after some weeks it separated into two par• into a bright transparent water, and into an ear•• which setled to the bottom of the glasse, in form of a thi• black corrosive, like pitch. I separated the white spi•• from it, and the fluid black matter I set in again to be d••¦solved, the white spirit which was dissolv'd of it, I separat• again, this work I iterated leaving nothing in the botto• save a dry red earth. After that, I purged my white spi••per distillationem very exactly, it was as pure as the tear th•• falls from the eye, the remaining earth I exiccated under Muffle, it was as porous, and as dry as dust, on this I pour••
Page 19
again my white spirit, set it in a digestion, this spirit ex•••ct the Sulphur, or Philosophick Gold, and was ting'd of a 〈◊〉 yellow, I ca••ed it off from the matter, and in a body •bstracted the spirit from the Sulphur, that Sulphur stayed ••inde in form of an Oyl, very fiery, nothing like unto its ••t, as red as a Ruby: this abstracted white spirit •ou•ed on the earth again, extracted further its Sulphur, ••d put it to the former. After this that Corpus terra look'd 〈◊〉 a paler colour, which I calcined for some hours under •uffle, put it into a body, on it I poured my white spirit, ••racted its pure white fixed Salt, the remaining earth ••s very porous, good for nothing, which I flung away, •as these three principles were fully and perfectly sepa∣••ed.

After all this I took my astral clarified Salt, which weigh'd ••lf an ounce, after the weight at Strasburg, and of the ••ite spirit, which weigh'd four ounces, of Mercury one ••nce, and a quarter of an ounce, these I divided into two ••ts, whose quantity was half an ounce and one dram, I ••t this Salt to one part of the water in a Viol, and nippd it, 〈◊〉 it in digestion, there I saw perfectly how the Salt dis∣••ved it self again in this spirit, therefore I poured to it the ••her part, which was half an ounce and one dram, no sooner ••is was put to it, then presently the body together with ••e spirit turned as black as a Coal, ascended to the end of 〈◊〉 glasse: and having no room to go any further, it moved 〈◊〉 and fro, sometimes it setled to the bottom, by and by it ••e to the middle, then it rose higher, thus it moved from ••e fourth of July, to the seventh of August, namely 34. ••ayes, which wonderfull work I beheld with admiration; 〈◊〉 last these being united, and turned to a black powder, ••ying on the bottom, and was dry, seing that it was so, I ••creased my fire in one degree, took it out of the we, and 〈◊〉 in ashes, after ten dayes the matter on the bottom be∣••n to look somewhat white, at which I rejoyced heartily, ••s degree of fire I continued, till the matter above and •low, became as white as the glittering Snow. But it was
Page 20
no• yet fix, making •ryal of 〈◊〉, set it in again, encreased 〈◊〉 fire one degree higher, then the matter began to ascend a descend, moved on high, stayed in the middle of the g••• not touching the bottom of it, this lasted 38 dayes a• nights, I beheld then as well, as formerly at the 30 daye• variety of colours, which I am no• able to expresse. 〈◊〉 last th•s powder fell to the bottom, became fix, made p•¦jection wi h it, putting one Grai• of it to one, and a qu••• of an ounce of Mercury, transmuting the same into very g••Lune. [Now it was time to restore unto this white tinct•• her true anima, and imbibe it, to bring it from its wh••¦nesse unto rednesse, and to its perfect vertue.

Thereupon I took the third principle, namely the anim• which hitherto I had reserved, in quantity it was one ou•• a quarter of an ounce, and one dram, poured to it my r•¦served spirit of Mercury, whose quantity was one cu•• and a quarter of an ounce, drew it over several times 〈◊〉alembicum, so that they in the end united together; th•se divided into seven equal parts; one part I poured on m• clarified earth, or tincture, which greedily embraced 〈◊〉anima together with its spirit, and turned to a ruddines•• in twelve dayes and nights, but had no tinging quality 〈◊〉 yet, saving Mercury vive and Saturn, it transmuted in•• Lune, which Lune at the separating yielded three Grai••〈◊〉 Gold. I proceeded further with my imbibition, and carrie• all the seven parts of anima into; at the fourth imbibi••o• one part of my work ting'd ten parts of Copper into Gold at the fifth imbibition one part tinged hundred parts, at th• sixth it tinged thousand parts, at the seventh it tinged te• thousand parts: Thus, God be praised, my work ended suc¦cesfully, with great joy of my heart: at this time I got o• the true Medicine four ounces half an ounce, and one dram. The two last in the ponderosity were almost equa• unto the first, out of this my work I paid for Land and Ground, to that Noble Gentleman O. V. D. 48000 Gilders. Actum• 1607. These things I set down for a memorandum, tha• I should not forget any of the manuals, and of other thing•
Page 21
necessary for the work. God be praised for evermore. Amen.

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

---

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

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

LONDON, Printed Anno Domini▪ MDCLVI.


Page 1
The fifth and last part Of the last TESTAMENT Of FRIAR BASILIUS VALENTINUS.
BEfore I begin to speak of the Salts of Metals and Minerals, and declare their volumes and other precious and noble growth under ground, in the first place I will prefix the preparation of aurum potabile, because there∣in lieth the Corona of Medicinals, Universa∣liter, and meriteth the first place, because Salts of other Metals and Minerals in their innate vertues are for particu∣lars onely, and are ordained for to preserve man in health; and there is just cause to begin with the making of au•um potabile without sophistication, and will speak of the distin∣ction of it, that it may be judged infallibly to be the true one.

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

Page 2
Therefore if G•d doth bl•sse th•e with a true knowledge hereof, that you would keep this secretum in silence and privacy, least you turn Gods blessing into a curse: because the pr•paration of this, and of the stone is one, both have their original, and first generation and birth from the true seed, and Astrologick primum mobile, called the spirit of Mercury, of which formerly I have written more largely. For I speak the highest •ru•h unto thee, that neither the U•iversal•or Particular Tincture, neither aurum potabile, nor other Universal Medicine, without this heavenly and spiritual essence, which hath its original from the starry heaven, taketh and receiveth the same, from thence may be had and prepared, therefore be silent till death, at your departing lay down again your talent, as I have done; for if I had not informed you faithfully, you would know but little of that mystery, and continue still with the vulgar in folly, blindnesse, and madnesse, and you would have sent a Recipe into the greasy and salvy shops of Apothecaries, but whither would thy Soul have gone after thy departure? into Galen's l•p, to •he utmost depth of darknesse, where the D•vils have their dwelling places, even thither, both thy soul and body w•uld have been sent, in case thou shouldst have divulged a•y of th•se secrets.

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

The highest and chiefest aurum potabile, which the Lord God hath laid into nature, is the excocted, prepared, and
Page 3
fixed substance of our stone, before it is fermented. A higher, greater, and more excellent Universal Medicine, and aurum potabile cannot be found nor had in the circumfe∣rence of the whole World; for it is a heavenly Balsam, be∣cause its first principles, and original cometh from heaven, made formal in earth, or under ground, and is afterwards, being exactly prepared, brought into a plus quam perfection, of which first principle and Nativity of this heavenly sub∣stance I have already written sufficiently, and count it need∣lesse to be repeated here.

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

But thus much you must note, when the anima of Sol begins to be dissolved, and brought into its prima materia,
Page 4
that at the first, on the side round the glasse, where the matter lieth, there be seen a green circle, on it a b•ue, the•• a yellow, afterward all the colours of a Rain-bow, joyn, and make appearance, which do last but a little while. The anima of Sol being wholly dissolved into the Mercurial spi∣rit, and nothing is seen in the bottom, then pour to it twice as much of the best rectified spirit of wine, brought to its highest degree, the glasse must be luted exactly, digest, and putrify gentle for twelve, or fifteen dayes together, then ab∣stract per alembicum, that matter cometh over in a bloud-red transparent colour: this abstracting must be iterated, nothing must be left in the bottom, which is corporeal, then you have the true aurum potabile, which can never be reduced into a body.

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

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

Put so much of this Oyl to is, that in it may be dissolved Sulphur, or the Soul of Gold, let it putrifie in Balneo Mariae, put a reasonable fire to it, that you may see that the Soul of Gold is quite dissolved in the Oyl of Vitriol: the feces, which it hath setled, must be separated from it, then put twice as much of the best rectified spirit of Wine to it, which recti∣fication
Page 5
you shall be inform'd of in this part, seal the glasse, •et no spirits of the Wine evaporate, set it again in putrefa∣••tion in the Balmy, let it be there for a moneth, then the •upresse of Vitriol is mitigated by the spirit of Wine, and •oseth its acidity and sharpnesse, both together make an excellent Medicine, drive both over, let nothing stay be∣hinde in the bottom, then you get more than half an aurum ••tabile, in form, and colour of a deep yellow liquor. Note, that some Metals in this manner may be proceeded withall, first a Vitriol may be gotten out of the Metal, then a spirit is for her driven from it, and joyned in this manner with the Soul, dissolved, and further digested with spirit of Wine, all must enter together into a Medicine, as I told of formerly, which have their special efficacie.

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

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

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

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

Page 6
Take the sky coloured Sulphur, or spirit of Lune, whic• was extracted with distilled Vinegar, as I informed you i• the Particular of Lune, edulcorate it, rectifie it with spirit o• Wine, exsiccate it, put it in a Viol, pour to it three time• as much of spirit of Mercury, which is prepared from th• white spirit of Vitriol, as I faithfully taught you in tha• place, lute the glasse firmly, set it in putrefaction in the va∣porous Bath, let all be dissolved, and nothing more seen i• the bottom, then put to it an equal quantity of the bes• spirit of Wine, set it in digestion for half a moneth, driv•• all over, let nothing stay behinde, then you have the true potable Lune, which in its efficacie is admirable, and dot• wonders when it is used.

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

Of the Salt of Tartar.
FIrst you must note, that the Philosophers Tartar is not the vulgar Tartar, wherewith the Lock is opened, but it is a Salt, which cometh from the root, and is the onely m•st•cal Key for all Metals, and is prepared thus: make a sharp lixivium of the ashes of Sarments, or twigs of the Vine,
Page 7
boyl away all its moisture, there stayeth behinde a ruddy ••tter, which must be reverberated for three hours in a fla∣•ing fire, stirring it still, let it come to a whitenesse, which ••hite matter must be dissolved in distill'd Rain water, let ••e feces of it settle, filter, and coagulate them in a glasse ••at the matter in it be dry, which dry matter is the Salt of •artar, from which the true spirit is driven.

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

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

Page 8
As much as this matter weigheth together, add as m•• of the additional of Salt of Tartar thereunto, namely 〈◊〉 remaining matter, from which was extracted the Salt 〈◊〉 Tartar, and it must be well exiccated, all this must be mi••¦led together, and put in a well coated Retort, three p•• of the Retort must be empty, take a great receiver, or b•• to it, very strongly. Note, the body into which the R••¦torts nose is put, must have a pipe of a fingers bread•h, u•¦to which may be applied another body, and a quantity 〈◊〉 spirit of Wine in it: then give a gentle fire to it, at fi•• there comes some of the phlegme, which falls into the f•• applied body: the phlegme being all come over, then i•¦crease the fire, there cometh a white spirit to the upper pa•• of the body, like unto the white spirit of Vitriol, whic• doth not fall among the phlegme, but slideth through th• pipe into the other body, draweth it self into the spirit 〈◊〉 Wine, embracing the same as one fire doth joyn with th•• other.

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

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

This spirit dissolveth Oculi Cancrorum, the hardest Cry∣••: these three being driven over together, and often ite∣rated
Page 9
in that distilling, three drops of that liquor being mi∣••ed in warm Wine, break, and dissolve any Gravel and ••e in mans body, expelling their very roots, not put∣••g the patients to any pain.

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

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

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

All that hath breath, praise the Lord. Allelujah!

End of the fifth part.

---

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

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

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

LONDON, Printed Anno Domini, MDCLVI.


Page 1
BASILIUS VALENTINUS HIS TREATISE. CONCERNING MICROCOSME.
THose that s•ek Art, and have a desire to attain to wisdom, are to note, that the Highest, up∣on my continued prayers hath granted unto me a Clergy-man, to make known the many and great mysteries of nature: among which mans body is one to be considered, how that is govern'd in imitation unto Microcosme. For it is ••et that the lesser should imitate the greater, and the smallest and meanest ought to be governed by the greatest and most potent.

Microcosme, or the great World containeth three things, as the most principal, the rest, which come from these, are meerly accidentals. In the first place is to be considered the matter and form of this World, which matter is made form 〈◊〉 out of a non-shape, or a nothing, and the great Creator pre∣sently prescribed an order for this matter, what government it should keep, as soon as it came to a life, or motion. This matter and form is water and earth. For at the Creation by a separation of the water from the earth, there was finished the matter and form, as two things belonging one to ano∣ther, from these all Animals and Vegetables have their be∣ginning, and other two things, as aire and fire, which belong one to another, have wrought life therein. The matter and
Page 2
form is earth, the Salt in that earth, the body: even so is with mans body, which is Microcosme. The matter was n• perfect without the form, these joyning into one, by God ordinance, the form being become quick, came then to perfection: the matter and form got life by motion, aire w• the first causer of that motion, and perfect maturity was ca•¦sed by a convenient heat, moveably inclosed in the ai•e, thu• the earth was brought to a fertility by the aire, it was ope¦ned, and became porous by motion for generation. Th• earth being impregnated, made her seed apparent by he aquosity, then aire and heat in the neather and upper Regi•¦on of the Astrals caused that a Birth was brought forth, th• blossoms were produced, and the appointed fruit was ripe¦ned by concoction of heat.

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

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

The two first Elements, the matter and form, being ap∣parent, and having gotten a mobility by the two last Ele∣ments by light, Microcosme was not yet perfect, the Crea∣tor allotted further an increase to the seed of the earth, as well as he did to Vegetables and Animals. God allowed unto earth an imagination for all sorts of seeds, and to bring
Page 3
them forth after their several kindes. Then the earth was impregnated by imagination which God allotted, and the •aith brought these seeds forth in Mans presence, and the •eat digested them to a maturity even till hi herto.

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

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

Page 4
This Vital spirit nourisheth, feedeth, and preserveth h•¦self by the Ole••y of mans Sulphur, which is predominan• the bloud, and with, or through it doth work in •he wh• body, that the substance may be perfect. This Vital s• is Mercury, which is found in man, and is preserved by Oleity of its likenesse; besides these two, Mercury and S•¦phur, there is a third thing in man, namely Salt, which h• in the fl•sh, body, and bones.

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

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

This being done, then nature distributeth her gifts fu•¦ther, making a new separation; as of the superfluou•ness• which the Cow doth not assume by way of assimilation, a• must part with it, and distributeth the same further, and th•
Page 5
〈◊〉 Milk, this Milk is an Anim•l substance, transmuted from the Vege•able In this Milk is made another separation by fire, which must be kept gently. For the subtilest spirit of the Milk together with the Sulphu• sublimeth, is taken off, and turned to a coagulated far••sse, which is butter. The •est is separated by other means, and precipitated, and ••hereby is made another separation, this is a second coagu∣•ation, out of which men make their food: of the overp•us •s made another separation by fi•e, not so far as the former •wo: at last there rem•ineth an aquosity, and is of no grea••s•fulnesse, because the spirit and its nutriment •s taken •rom it by the s•veral separations.

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

To return again to the structure of Man, the noblest spiri••f life hath its dominion and seat for the most part, an•t •ost strongly in the heart of mans body, as in the noble •art: and the Sulphur of man •iveth unto tha• spirit a nu∣•iment, and spiritual accesse for its preservation by the a•re∣•or if aire be taken away from man, then spiri• of li•e is hoak'd up, departeth invisibly, and death is at h••d. The noble Salt spirit is a conserver of both, its nobl•st spi∣•t penetrateth throughout, the grossest matter of 〈◊〉 Sa • is •ast into the bladder, and that hath a spi•it of a pe•ial •peration. That which goeth from the Salt throu•h• the •adder, is wrought upon by a hear, ministreth a n•w ••∣cesse,
Page 6
or increase, so that this increase of Salt in man is i• exhaustible, unlesse it die qu•te, and the body be burn• to ashes, and the remainder be extracted. As for an e•¦ample; Take the Salts from Minerals, let these grow agai• coagulate, and extract the Salt again by water, the like seen in nitrous earths also, and other common Salts, a•• there needs not to quote any further examples.

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

The fire in the heart, and the natural heat is preserve• and supported by the aire, of that aire the Lungs stan• most in need of: the Liver also must have aire, else it ca•¦not laugh: the Spleen must have aire, else it will be op¦press't with stitchings and great pains: the true seat for th• most part o••••aire is necessary for the Lungs, if these fa• into any we•k•ess•, the cause thereof is, because the Sal• doth no• sh•w its true, and meet help, and must go int• rottennesse casting up bloud and matter: then there is a• hand a corruption of the aire, from which the Vital spiri• cannot finde any true nourishment, but must be starved because the Salt doth not effect its conserving quality, th• Sulphur, and the increase of the nourishment is obstructed, and is not perfect, whereby are caused Consumptions, wi∣therings of the body, consuming of the flesh, and exicca∣tion
Page 7
of the bloud, and of the marrow. The substance of Salt, o• the Salt spirit, which preserveth the body, hath its •eat for the most part in the bladder, where all humidities have their issue, the rem•ining grosse Salt is separated, and excerned by Urine, as you heard already. I repeat it here again for that end, because the most noble spirit, which doth preserve man, doth copulate, and maketh friend∣ship with the Vital spirit and its nutriment, which is Sulphur, and so they make the body perfect, and if any informity be incident, either from the operation, or defective quality of the Stars, or from a disorderly life in eating and drink∣ing, and many other inconveniences, and any corruption be present, then nature is not in her perfect condition. Here the knowing Physician must enquire into the cause, from which of these three the Symptome doth arise, and cure the same with convenient remedies, and not with any contrary Medicines: as heat must be cured with heat, cold with cold, pricking with pricking: for one heat draweth the other, one cold draweth another, even as Iron is drawn by a Magnet; and so pricking simples may cure stiching diseases, and poysonous Minerals can heal, and bring to right poysonous Symptomes, if they be duely and well prepared. And although sometimes externally a cooler be supplied, however I speak as a Philosopher, and one that is experienced in nature, that like must be cured and expelled fundamentally with the like, otherwise true Medicaments are not applied, and the Physicians deal not really in their profession. He that is not fundamen∣tally learned herein, or doth nor observe these things, he is not a true Physician, neither can he really say that he hath learned any truth in Physick, because he is not able to discern cold and heat, drie and wet: for know∣ledge and experience, and a fundamental inquiry into natures mysteries make a good Physician next the know∣ledge of the Creator, from whom all, and every wisdom doth descend, and is the Author of the beginning, middle, and end thereof.

Page 8
Next the invocation of the Creator, there follow nat•¦ral means and Medicaments, as they are found in them¦selves in their highest degree; I make no further me•¦tion here of other Animals: Metals and Minerals follo• next, for in Gold, Silver, and other Metals, even to t• seventh and last Planet, are hid excellent things, Mercu• being predominant in all, in some more than in other and Minerals also are not without their vertuous Med•¦cines, and the former seven Planets were in their beginnin• onely Minerals.

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

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

Page 9
In brief, humane reason in Physicians is not able to compr••end sufficiently, muc• lesse are they able to de∣cide, fathom, and fully learn, what manner Medicaments there may be made of Microcosme, for he containeth a perfect Medicine for all diseases, like with like must be expelled and cured. Mercurie of Microcosme is a living, incomprehensible, and volatile spirit, as I have told.

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

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

Vegetables also shew the form of their three principles, the visible matter containeth the Vegetable Salt, which is its conse•vative, the fragrancy of the Vegetable is the Bal∣sam, which ministers a nourishment unto its perfect growth, the odour, or smell of any Herb is of a volatile quality, and
Page 10
spiritual, and the spirit for the most part sheweth it self in the frangrancy, and penetrateth the Balsam, and its odour, be it pleasant, or not, is the essence, whereby men in their senses learn the condition and properties of Vegetables. For other things I have written, I praise the Lord, which dwelleth on high. Thus closing I wish to every one the grace and blessing of God the Creator of all Creatures, that they may be bless•d, wise, and rich, both in this temporal and corruptible World, and in the other World attain to an eternal blisse. Amen.

Of the Mysterie of Microcosme, its Medicinal parts belonging unto Man, written by BASILIUS VALENTINUS.
TO make use of the heavenly Revelation, about two Lu∣minaries, and of the mysteries of the whole Medicine, which lieth in that marvellous instrument of Micro∣cosme, within and w•thout, that is, in the body, and with∣out, as ordinary wounds, Sores, Ulcers, that have their cause from within, have their descent from one root, however, must be severally prepared and dress't. For that within is not like to that which is without, in respect of their operation; but in respect of their form and matter they are under one judgement. And that I may rightly inform my fellow Christian, I must needs acknowledge and confesse, that there are two Medicines, which heal all diseases and symptomes, be they whatsoever, and are made of one, the one is called PHALAIA, and is for inward use, the other is called ASA, is for external cures: both may be called to be onely One, they differ onely in their preparation; how both must be brought to their ope∣rative
Page 11
quality, the way unto it is shewed in my Manuals. For they must first be rightly known, and their nature must be searched into. Their matter is One, which by that ex∣p ession I purposely h•ld it forth least it should be made too common, I after •he manner of Ancient Philosophers before m•, hiding secrets under dark sentences, hoping by the prayers of others to have their Souls saved, and received into that Garden, in which our first Parents were created.

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

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

Page 12
Here I speak of such diseases, which by some are called incurable: for ordinary diseases there are ordinary means, which here are not mentioned, the uses of them are men∣tioned in a special Treatise.

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

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

ASA is found in ye operation, for external Symptoms, as old Ulcers, Fistulaes, Cancers, which made many Chirur∣gians doubt whether ever they may be cured; but this ASA hath made the cure: it consumeth all bad bloud, which was fall'n into corruption, and may be inwardly used, because it will then exiccate, and dry up the foun∣tains, from whence spring all manner of Sores, Fistulaes, Cancers, Wolves, noli me tangere, running Legs, Worms, and the like, be it on what part of the body, where Plai∣sters, Pultesses, and the like cannot help, and are not strong enough, this alone will do it. For fresh wounds,
Page 13
be they made by stobbing, cutting, slashing, it needs not to be administred, being too strong for such wounds, gentler means are fitter for them; Balsams, Oyls, Plaisters, may heal•nes•, either outwardly, or inwardly; Powders and potions may be prepared. Symptomes in wounds, ha∣ving their causes from within, must be cured by searching into them, and the means for their cure must be prepared of that strength, that they may reach home. As in this mat∣ter, things must be united, and be taken from the gene∣ration of ABIHAIL, being joyned in their principles of the fi•st essence, by nature's means, its brought to the highest perfection, whereby such Sores, U•cers, &c. are fundamentally cured. For ordinary wounds there is no need of it, if no Symptomes are at hand, and the party endangered, a Balsam onely will perform the deed, molli∣fying the flesh, and nature will further, and promote the cure

Be thankfull next God to me, that hath taught you in∣ward and outward Medicines, and are such, which others before me have concealed, they can cure fundamentally any Symptomes, be they within, or without on the body, such vertues are not found in Out-landish woods, drugs, or herbs: Forrainers have their proper climates, under which they have convenient Physical Vegetables: our climate af∣fords unto us proper Medicinal Vegetables, Animals, and Minerals for our constitution; onely Doctors are not ex∣pert to make their Medicinal preparations out of them. I hold with my Physick PHALAIA and ASA of one name in their descent, whereby nature hath made me to be a Physician; it keepeth good to the last, preserveth man in health and strength all the time the Creator hath appointed for him: vertue it hath shewed triumphantly in many parties, obtaining victory against all its enemies, and it was apparent to the world, that these two Medicines PHALAIA and ASA of one kinde, and of one mat∣ter made and prepared: and it is found dayly, that in the generality they can set all into a perfect degree, as being de∣scended
Page 14
from the Center, can preserve the Center as the Root, and can bring things to right within and without, ten∣ding to that end, for which it is prepared.

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

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

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

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

Page 15
Fourthly, a Philosopher must learn to Anatomize things in nature, to know what they contain within and without, to separate the poyson from the Medicinal quality. Here∣unto belong several Manuals, how to dissolve, separate, exalt, and prepare fully Metals, Minerals, Vegetables, and Animals. He that ha•h learned all these, he may discourse wisely of things, confirm their grounds in truth; but o∣thers, which are ash•med to work herein, cannot glory in any truth: because by the receipts found in other mens writings, are these men led, and made a trade of other mens wri•ings, not endeavouring to learn more in thei• own experience: I am not ashamed to learn dayly, because nature is •ound and endlesse, cannot be comprehended fully, by reason of the shortnesse of mans life, and none can say that there is nothing left more for him to learn. No such matter. Thus you see, that Gods blessing must be obtained by fervent and frequent praying unto God, the causes of diseases must be known, their cure must be or∣dered according to the direction of Philosophick writings, •djoyning an experimental knowledge thereunto. He that doth, and knoweth •hese four things may glory in his wayes, confirming things in deeds, and not to exercise a trade upon other mens receipts. My Medicaments, if well prepared and duely used, will by Gods help make known, that they received their strength from God, the marvel∣lous Creator to perform these things, which ignorants, and men of li tle faith cannot comprehend: by dayly experi∣ence faith getteth strength, that man may praise the highest, who hath put such ve••••s into natural things, for the which mortals are not able to return sufficient thanks. As much as lieth in my power I will praise the Lord day and night, and is not possible to require him in any other way. At the closing observe thus much; in School long discourses are made of the three principles of all things, of the matter of heaven, what it is made of, and on what the earth doth rest, how the Elements were made, and of the beginning of the Firmament, and of se∣veral
Page 16
opinions they are about the original causes of Metals Minerals, Vegetables, of their qualities and proper•ies, o• the original of man, and of other A•imal•, s•••ching in their conceits into their lives, vertues, &c. Bu• my Sonne hearken unto me, and take notice of what I say: all their pretended sayings are a meer nothing, they speak igno∣rantly without any certainty: because they have no expe∣rimental knowledge, having laid no foundation, nor have they learned any true decision in their demonstration• Thoughts pay no Custom, or Toll, they fly into heaven, descend to the neathermost parts of the earth, if experi∣ence & their thought do not concurre, then their though•s are found a meer opinion, then they must confesse, I d•d not think it could be so! Mans thoughts are fi•ly compared with a dream, because nothing follows upon an imagination; Natures secrets must be studied exp•rimentally. If Ar∣tists, or Mechanicks would imagine to work such, or such things, be it Watches, or other curious Metalline works, but doth not invent fit instruments, whereby to make that work they have in their fancy, what can they produce by that imagination? An empty opinion, and no Art. So in the knowledge of Na•ural things, their secrets require a• greater exactnesse to be searched i•to, which to lazy un∣expert men seem strange and impossible. I tell you there is required an exact diligence to finde that, which lieth •i•• in them, it must be done by separation. Nature must be anatom•zed, good and bad in it must be discerued, what is contained in each in its Center, for the general, and what cometh from it in particular.

Therefore Macrocosme and Microcosme, yea, the things which grow and are found therein, are compared to a round Circle, in whose middle there is a Center, let the Circle be turned which way it will, it keepeth round every way, and its Center stayeth unremoved. A Philosopher also must know rightly the Center of each matter, which must stand unremoved in every substance, but the substance may be turned any way he pleaseth, and make of it seve∣ral
Page 17
forms, according as it received its power from above. 〈◊〉 speak now to be taken notice of thus: I take in hand any natural thing, dissolve, or open it by a Key, which is the means of the unfolding, and search therein by a fire's proof, which is the master of all proofes, what may be made of it: Here I finde as many wonders and qualities, which I never •hought of, much lesse had I experience of.

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

A blinde man cannot tell how the inward parts of mans ••dy are conditioned, but the seeing Physician, who ana∣••mizeth the body, he can judge of the situation of the •eart, Brain, Liver, Lungs, Reins, Bladder, of the Entrals, ••d of all the Veins, and knoweth in what form and condi∣•on they are. But before he hath made this anatomy, all •ese were hid from him, a Myner which seeketh so Oars, 〈◊〉 doth not know what riches he may expect from Metals, ••lesse he open the Oar, and so fine it: what he findeth in 〈◊〉 by fire, then he may know really in his calculation, what ••hes he may expect from it. So other things must be pro∣••ded in, which true Naturalists will endeavour to do, and
Page 18
not prate of things onely without experimental knowledge, disputing of colours with the blinde man; learn to know the ground with your own eyes and hands, which Nature hi∣deth within her, then you may speak wisely of them with good reason, and you may build upon an invincible Rock. If you do not so, then you are but a Phantastick prater, whose discourse is grounded on sand without experience, and is soon shaken by every winde, and ruined in the end. The ground of this knowledge must be learned as you heard, by anatomizing and separating of things, which by distillation is made known: where every Element is sepa∣rated apart, there it will be made known what is cold, or moist, warm, or dry. There you learn to know the three principles, how the spirit is separated from the body, and how the Oyl is separated from the water, and how the Sale is drawn from the Caput mort of each matter, and is reduced again into a spirit, and how these three are afterward joyn'd again, and by fire are brought into one body. Further is here learn'd, how each after its separation, and afterward in a conjunction may profitably and safely be used for their several uses they are prepared for: all which must be done by a medium. At the first Creation man is earthy & grosse, but his Soul, Spirit, and Body, being separated by death, putrifieth under ground, and when the Highest cometh to judgement, he is raised again, his Body, Soul, and spirit co∣meth together, according to Faith and Scripture; that body is no more earthy, as it was formerly, but is found heaven∣ly and clarified, glittering as the Stars in the East, and like the Sun is seen, when all the Clouds are past. So it is here, when earthinesse is broken, divided, and separated, then the three principles of the dead substance are made appa∣rent, the dead one is forsaken, the living power comes to her perfection, because her obstruction is laid aside, that the vertue in the operation may be manifested; In this se∣paration and manifestation is then known what these three principles are, which are so much discoursed of, namely Mercury, Sulphur, and Salt, according to the condition of
Page 19
the subject. He that doth not think it to be true, let him go to the end of the World, where he shall feel all what in his dumb capacity he could not comprehend: if any one should intend to teach me any other with a prolixity of words, he may fill me with words, but he must prove it really also, for without that I am not bound to believe his words, but desire some sign as Thomas, one of the Twelve, who look'd for an Ocular demonstration: I might have left out Thomas, but being there is a clift between a spiritual and worldly unbeliever, I gave liberty to my minde to speak it, for there is a great difference in heavenly and worldly matters, touching faith and things comprehensible, and there is that difference found also in fidereal & earthly things: for fidereal things are comprehended by sharp ima∣gination, and Arithmatick rules, but to the finding out of earthly things there belongeth speculation and separation: with speculation must be joyned an intention, and an ap∣prehension is annexed to speculation, the former is done spi∣ritually, because the spirit of man doth not rest, desireth to apprehend more qualities of the spirit in things natural: e∣very spirit stil draweth its like: the rest is earthy: for an earthy body separateth by manuals the earthly body from the spiritual part, and so the one may be discerned before and from the other. Whereas the soul in both sheweth her self really, therefore is she in all really, for she tieth the heavenly and earthy together like a bond, but when the heavenly is •••arated from 〈◊〉•••rthy, that the soul also must forsake her body, then you 〈◊〉•••arated and received the three, each apa•t, which a••••〈◊〉 true knowledge and conjunction can afford such a trium••ing and clarifyed body which is found in a better degree of many thousand times, because the grossest is laid aside from the earthy.

For when heaven and earth come to be refined by the great Creator, then the greatest part will be consumed by fire, and by that purging it will be exalted to the same degree with the heavenly, and set into the same line, for each all is created by one, each all is ordained by one, and though
Page 20
through sin by one man all was corrupted unto death, yet all is by one brought to a better State of life: and the onely Creator intends to judge all by fire, and all must again be∣come one, which will be that heavenly essence, to which the earthl gave way by means of the fire: the eternall glory leaving a room for devil and death, from whence they shall look on the elect, admiring the great Majesty and glory of God, which in a divine essence of three distinct persons is all in all: and hath created all.

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

At the closing of this I say, that this is the whole Art and whole foundation of all the Philosophick speech in which is that sought; which many desire, taking great pains, and making great expences, namely to get wisdom and judge∣ment, a long life, health & riches of this world comprehended in few words; as for example. First you must know, that I wi•• shew unto you such an example of th••〈◊〉••nals, which in the appearance is a mean and poor on•〈◊〉•f a mihgty con∣sequence, if rightly considered, The 〈◊〉•ayeth an egg, the same egg is by heat brought to a hard 〈◊〉 or coagulation; by a further heat it is brought to a putrefaction, where it it cor∣rupted: in this putrefaction the egg receiveth a new Genus, wherein is raised a new life, and a chicken is hatch'd, This chicken being perfect, the shell openeth making way for the chichen to creep forth, this chicken coming to a further ripeness & age, increaseth further in her kinde. Thus Nature
Page 21
furthereth her own kinde, and augmetteth Us{que} ad infinitmm. True, the egg is not prima materia of the Cock or Hen, but the prima materia of their flesh is the first seed, out of which the egg is gone into a form, which by the equal nature of the mo∣tion of both is driven together and united, from thence by a further heat it went to a putrefaction, from thence into a new birth, which new birth still propagateth and increaseth.

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

The vegetable seed is made palpable and visible which from each kinde of herb is separated and propagated in the earth for an increase, which seed must first putrifie in the earth, and then must be nourished by a temperate moisture, at last this seed by a convenient warm air is brought to a per∣fection, thus vegetables are increased, and in their kinde preserved: but the first beginning of a vegetable seed is a spirituall essence or astral influence, whereby in the earth was gotten an imagination, and became impregnated with a matter, out of which by the help of the Elements it came to be something: what form of seed the earth was desirous of after the heavenly impression, that form it received first, and brought it to a kinde, which bringeth a further increase by its palpable seed in the generation, hereby man may try his futher skill: but he is not able to create a new seed, as Nature
Page 22
doth by an influence from above onely he is able to increase a formed seed.

Of Metals and Minerals I inform you this, that there is one onely Almighty Being, which is from eternity, and abideth unto eternity, which is the Creator of heaven and earth, namely the eternal Deity in three distinct persons, which three in the Deity are a perfect divine being: and though I confess and acknowledge these three persons, yet I confess onely one God in one Being. This I do now speak as a Type of the first seed of the three principles, that the first begin∣ning, to beget Metallin seeds is wrought in the earth by a fideriall impression, which quality presseth from above into the neather as in the belly of the earth, and worketh conti∣nually a heat therein, with the help of the Elements; for both must be together: the earthy affords an imagination, that the earth is fitted for conception and is impregnated, the Elements nourish and feed this fruit, bring it on by a continued hot quality unto perfection, the earthy substance affords a form thereunto; thus at the beginning the Metal∣lin and Mineral seed is effected namely by an astral imagina∣tion, Elemental operation, and terrestriall form: the astral is heavenly, the Elementary is spiritual, and the earthy is corporeall, these three make of their first Center the first es∣sence of the Metallin seed, which Philosophers have further searched into, that out of this essence there is become a form of a Metallin matter, p••pably joyned together of three, of a Metalline Sulphur •eavenly, a Metalline Mercury spritual, and a Metalline salt bodily, which three are found at the opening of Metals: for Metalls and Minerals must be broken and opened: Minerals are of the same sanguinity, of the same quality and nature, as Metals are, onely they are not suffici∣ently ripened unto coagulation, and may be ackowledged for unripe Metals, for the spirit in them is found as mighty Metalline as it is in the perfectest Metals. For Metals may be destroyed and easily reduced unto Minerals, and of Minerals are prepared Medicaments, which ripen and transmute Me∣tals, which must be noted; and it is done, when Spirit,
Page 23
Soul and Body are separated & purely reunited. The remain∣ing terrestrity being put off, then followeth a perfect birth, and the perfect ripening by heat performs her office, that Spirit, Soul and Body at the beginning in their first seed have been a heavenly water, which begot these three, out of which three is become a Metalline Sulphur, a Metalline Mercury, & a Metalline salt, these in their conjunction made a fix, visible, palpable body; first began a Mineral one, then a Metalline by an astral imagination, digested and ripened by the Elements, and by an earthly substance are made for∣mal and Material.

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

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

FINIS.