The works of Geber, the most famous Arabian prince and philosopher faithfully Englished by Richard Russel ...

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

The First Book .

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

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

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

The Division of this First Book into Four Parts .

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

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

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

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

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

CHAP. I.

The Division of Impediments .

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

CHAP. II.

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

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

CHAP. III.

Of the Impediments from the part of the Artists Soul .

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

CHAP. IV.

Of External Impediments hindring the Work of this Art .

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

Now , from the premised Heads , 't is sufficiently manifest what are the Impediments hindring Men from this Art .

CHAP. V.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CHAP. I.

The true Reasons of Men simply denying this Art .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CHAP. II.

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

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

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

CHAP. III.

A Confutation of the Reasons of Men simply denying Art .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Therefore now 't is expedient We should , according to Our Promise , pass to those Things that are to be determined , touching the Reasons of Men denying the Art , from Things given , or on Supposition . Which being duly examined , We shall then come to determine those Things , which are Principles of the Intention of Nature ; the Essence of which We shall more sufficiently discourse of in the following : But after that Determination , We shall also speak of those Things that are the Principles of Our Magistery . Yet in treating of the First , We make an universal , but in the following a singular Discourse of every one of the Principles . But now for the present We first betake Our Selves to the Reasons of Men denying the Art , from Things given ; and their Refutations .

CHAP. IV.

Divers Opinions of those who suppose the Art to be .

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

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

CHAP. V.

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

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

The Confutation of the precedent Reasons .

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

CHAP. VI.

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

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

CHAP. VII .

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

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

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

CHAP. VIII .

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

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

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

CHAP. IX .

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

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

CHAP. X.

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

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

CHAP. II.

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

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

CHAP. XII .

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

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

CHAP. XIII .

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

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

CHAP. XIV .

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

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

CHAP. XV.

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

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

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

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

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

CHAP. I.

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

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

CHAP. II.

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

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

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

CHAP. III.

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

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

CHAP. IV.

Of Sulphur .

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

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

CHAP. V.

Of Arsenick .

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

CHAP. VI.

Of Argentvive , or Mercury .

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

CHAP. VII .

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

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

CHAP. VIII .

Of Sol , or Gold .

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

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

CHAP. IX .

Of Luna , or Silver .

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

CHAP. X.

Of Saturn , or Lead .

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

CHAP. XI .

Of Jupiter , or Tin .

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

CHAP. XII .

Of Venus , or Copper .

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

CHAP. XIII .

Of Mars , or Iron .

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

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

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

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

CHAP. I.

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

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

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

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

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

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

CHAP. II.

Of Sublimation , why invented .

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

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

CHAP. III.

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

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

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

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

CHAP. IV.

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

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

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

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

CHAP. V.

Of Governing the Fire in Sublimation .

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

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

CHAP. VI.

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

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

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

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

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

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

CHAP. VII .

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

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

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

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

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

CHAP. VIII .

Of the Sublimation of Mercury and Argentvive .

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

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

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

CHAP. IX .

Of Sublimation of Marchasite .

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

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

CHAP. X.

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

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

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

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

CHAP. XI .

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

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

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

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

CHAP. XII .

Of Descension , and the way of Purifying by Pastills .

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

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

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

CHAP. XIII .

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

THerefore , following Our Purpose , 't is convenient . We should speak of Distillation , with its Causes ; Distillation is an Elevation of aqueous Vapours in their Vessel . And Distillation is diversified . For some Distillations are by Fire , and some without Fire . Those made by Fire are of two kinds ; one , which is by Elevation into the Alembeck ; and the other by Chymical Descensory , by mediation of which the Oyl of Vegetables is extracted .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CHAP. IV.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CHAP. XV.

Of Solution , and its Cause .

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

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

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

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

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

CHAP. XVI .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CHAP. XVII .

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

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

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

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

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

CHAP. XVIII .

Of Ceration , and its Cause .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CHAP. I.

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

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

CHAP. II.

Of the Nature of Sulphur and Arsnick .

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

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

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

CHAP. III.

Of the Nature of Mercury , or Argentvive .

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

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

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

CHAP. IV.

Of the Nature of Marchasite , Magnesia , and Tutia .

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

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

CHAP. V.

Of the Nature of Sol , or Gold .

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

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

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

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

CHAP. VI.

Of the Nature of Luna , or Silver .

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

CHAP. VII .

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

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

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

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

CHAP. VIII .

Of the Nature of Venus , or Copper .

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

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

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

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

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

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

CHAP. IX .

Of the Nature of Jupiter , or Tin .

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

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

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

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

CHAP. X.

Of the Nature of Saturn , or Lead .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CHAP. I.

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

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

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

But We were desirous , with constant and continued Labour , and the industry of great Indagation , to be excused from the Labour of these ten Medicines , by the benefit of one only Medicine ; and with Our long and very laborous Search , We found , and with certain Experience , made one Medicine , by which the hard was softned , the soft Body hardned , the fugitive fixed , and the foul illustrated with splendor ineffable , and beyond Nature . Nevertheless 't is here expedient we should particularly speak of all these Medicines , with their their Causes , and the manifest Experiences of their Probations . Therefore first We will declare the Series of the ten Medicines , and accordingly of all Bodies , then of Argentvive , and lastly proceed to the Medicine of the Magistery perfecting all Bodies , yet with the Preparation imperfect Bodies need . And least We should be carped at by the Envious , as delivering an insufficient Treatise of Art , We first of all here present a Declaration of the Preparations of all the imperfect Bodies , assigning the Causes of the Necessity of their Inventions , by which ( in our Artifice ) they are rendred apt to receive the Medicine of Perfection , in every Degree of Whiteness and Redness , and to be perfected by the same . But after these shall be added a sufficient and congruous Narration of all the Medicines before-mentioned .

CHAP. II.

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

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

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

CHAP. III.

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

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

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

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

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

CHAP. IV.

Of the Preparation of Saturn and Jupiter .

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

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

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

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

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

CHAP. V.

Of the Preparation of Venus .

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

CHAP. VI.

Of the Preparation of Mars .

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

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

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

CHAP. VII .

Of the Mundification of Argentvive .

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

CHAP. VIII .

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

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

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

CHAP. IX .

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

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

Therefore , by the fore-going , 't is evident , that such a Preparation should be administred to it , as by which , of it may be created a most fulgent and purely clean Substance . Then it must be fixed , but with very great Caution , viz. the Artificer must be so well skilled in the Administration of Fire , in the Way of its Fixation , that he may only so far remove the Humidity , as shall be sufficient for compleating perfect Fusion . The way of effecting this , is thus : If you would by this Medicine mollifie Bodies hard of Fusion , in the beginning of its Creation , a gentle Fire must be adhibited . For gentle Fire is Conservative of Humidity , and Perfective of Fusion . But if you would have it harden soft Bodies , its Fire must be vehement . For such Fire is Consumptive of Humidity , and hindring Fusion . And indeed , it is expedient for every well minded Artificer , to consider all these Rules . Also , there is a necessity of many other Considerations of the Weight , with their Causes , and congruous Order . For the Cause of great Weight is the Subtilety of the Substance of Bodies , and Vniformity in the Essence . And by this , the parts of them may be so condensate , as nothing can come between ; and the Densation of Parts is the encrease of Weight , and the Perfection thereof .

CHAP. X.

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

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

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

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

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

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

CHAP. XI .

Of the Medicine of the first Order , dealbating Venus .

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

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

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

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

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

CHAP. XII .

Of Medicines dealbating Mars .

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

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

CHAP. XIII .

Of Medicines citrinating ( or colouring ) Luna .

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

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

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

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

CHAP. XIV .

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

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

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

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

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

CHAP. XV.

Of a Medicine Lunar and Solar , for imperfect Bodies .

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

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

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

CHAP. XVI .

Of the Medicine Coagulating Argentvive .

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

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

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

CHAP. XVII .

How Ingress is procured in Medicines by Artifice .

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

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

CHAP. XVIII .

Of the Medicines of the third Order in General .

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

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

CHAP. XIX .

Of the Lunar Medicine of the third Order .

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

CHAP. XX.

Of the Solar Medicine of the third Order .

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

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

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

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

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

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

CHAP. I.

The Division of what follows .

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

CHAP. II.

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

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

Therefore , 't is evident , that seeing Saturn is of much Earthiness , and contains a small Quantity of Argentvive , and of an easie Tenuity of Liquefaction , which are mostly opposite to the Perfection of a Cineritious Examen ; therefore of all the Bodies , by the Artifice of the Cineritium , it indures least in the Commixtion ; yea , it is separated , and vanisheth most speedily . Wherefore , seeing of all Bodies diminished from Perfection it most gives way and recedes ; by that it is more proper for the Examen of our Magistery ; and the reason is , because it sooner takes it flight , and sooner draws every of the imperfect Bodies with it self from the Mixture . Also , by reason of this , the greater Quantity of the perfect Body is preserved from the strong Combustion of the Fire of the Examen ; and therefore , by the Tryal of Lead it is less burnt , and more easily purified .

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

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

CHAP. III.

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

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

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

CHAP. IV.

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

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

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

CHAP. V.

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

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

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

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

CHAP. VI.

Of Ignition .

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

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

CHAP. VII .

Of Fusion , or Melting .

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

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

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

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

CHAP. VIII .

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

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

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

CHAP. IX .

Of the Extinction of Bodies Fire-hot .

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

CHAP. X.

Of the Admixtion of burning Sulphur .

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

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

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

CHAP. XI .

Of Calcination , and Reduction .

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

CHAP. XII .

Of the easie Susception of Argentvive .

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

CHAP. XIII .

A Recapitulation of the whole Art .

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

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

CHAP. XIV .

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

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

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

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