Chapter XXXII: Front Matter (32)

Nature generates a Salt, called _Vitriol_. This is a peculiar kind separated from all other Salts, possessing also Virtues different from them. Its Virtues are so many, and so famous, as of right they ought to be described in this Book. For, a perfect Cure of the Jaundice is latent in Vitriol, also of the Gravel and Stone in the Reins or Bladder, of all Feavers, Worms, Falling-sickness, _&c._ And in Constipations of the Body, it is a famous Deopilative: In the mean while of other Virtues in this Chapter to be mentioned, I here am silent. The Description of this is to be directed both to Medicine and Alchymy. For in Medicine, it is an excellent Remedy; in Alchymy it is profitable for many other things. But the Art consists in the Preparation of Vitriol for Medicine and Alchymy. For Vitriol crude, is no such thing. It is like Wood, of which all things may be made. It is profitable for Medicine of the Body; it profits also in Chirurgery, or External Diseases, as the Psora, Tetter, Hereditary Leprosie, and others; where all other Remedies are ineffectual, and as it were dead to the Disease. Vitriol assaults Diseases of this kind powerfully, and cures them fundamentally. Therefore the true Preparation of Vitriol is in a special manner to be known by Physicians. For its Virtues when crude are other, than when dissolved; and other when calcined, than when converted into a green, red, or white clear Oyl. This is the condition of it, that as often as it is reduced into another form, so often it is made a peculiar _Arcanum_.

This confounds all Apothecaries, and Writers, both _Italians_ and _Germans_. For this part is such, as it alone _per se_ can fill a fourth part of all their Shops, and cure Diseases proportionally. This being present, there is no need of so many Boxes, Pots, Glasses, _&c._ set all of a row, and disposed in order in Shops. It concerns a Physician, not to take care for so many Boxes, and Beyond-Sea Medicines, but to be circumspect, provident, and wise as a Virgin; since in such numbers of Vessels adulterate Remedies are for the most part contained. If he use the aforesaid circumspection, at his own doors he will find more choice Remedies, against all Diseases, than _India_, _Egypt_, _Barbary_, or _Greece_ can afford.

Let every Physician follow this Basis, for it is now known even to plain Country-men, that meer Frauds are contained in those Boxes: Which, as they are for the most part of Wood, so are they that use them Wooden Doctors and Apothecaries: But like with like do very well agree.

_Of the Species of =Vitriol=._

There are many Species of Vitriol, for they vary according to the Pits out of which they are taken. The common Probation of this is, as Coperas is proved upon Iron, but this is not true. The Genuine Probation is, that it be used crude against the Worms, in that manner as we will now explain; and accordingly as it expels Worms, so is it more or less excellent in Medicine. In Alchymy, another Probation by Cuprosity is more available; yet it may also be thus proved. If Vitriol change Iron into Copper, and that speedily, and the same be perfectly well gradated and soft under the Hammer, then is that Vitriol best in Medicine and Alchymy? For there is a Conjunction of Iron and Vitriol, where of Iron it makes Copper good and excellent. Of the best Vitriol the best Copper is made. Let no man wonder, that Copper can be made of Iron by Vitriol; for there is also this virtue in Nature, _viz._ that the Water of Borax makes Quick-silver of Lead. Also experience teacheth, that _Cachymia’s_ transmute all Metals into other, no otherwise than as Vitriol changeth Iron into Copper. Nor is Vitriol, only the transmuter of one Metal into another, but there are also other things, which have like effect upon all Metals. The reason why we know not them all, is, because Sophisters pervert Arts for their private benefit, using them only to supply their Purse and Kitchin.

In _Hungary_ is a River proceeding from Vitriol, or _per se_ consisting of Vitriol, not coagulated into Crystals. If Iron be put therein, and left for its due time, it turns to a Rubigo, or Rust. If that Rust be melted by a Wind-Furnace, it is presently made pure and constant Copper, not convertible into its own Nature of Iron. There are infinite Mines of Vitriol found throughout _Germany_, all which cannot be described apart. Yet the aforesaid Probations are to be used both in Medicine and Alchymy. There is besides these another Probation (not profitable in Medicine, but in Alchymy only) and that is: If the Colcothar of Vitriol do from it self by Fire, give or yield Copper. If it give Copper, then in Medicine it is weak, but in Alchymy strong Vitriol. Likewise the Colours of Vitriol are to be observed: That which is all over blue, mixed with no other Colour, is not so good in Medicine, as that Vitriol, which is (as it were) parted, and all over filled with red and yellow Lines and Veins. What in the Air inclines to whiteness, is efficacious, and fit for the green and white Oyl of Vitriol: what turns to a redness and yellowness is more excellent for the red Oyl. There needs no more to be said touching the Species of Vitriol, than what is suggested by Probation; which every Physician and Alchymist should make, according to the use he intends it for. Lastly, this Probation is never fallacious. If mixed with Galls, or Oak-Apples, it makes good Ink, then it may be used in all Cases: But if it maketh an aqueous, or waterish Ink, that needeth many additions, it is not so good.

_Of the Virtues of =Vitriol= in Medicine: first, of it Crude,
and its Colcothar._

In explaining the virtues of Vitriol, I will first speak of the virtues of it Crude, and of its Colcothar. Therefore, know ye, Vitriol is a famous Purgation, in grievous and difficult Diseases of the Stomach. For it sometimes happens, that the Stomach is distempered by Meats and Drinks, and falls into a Diuturnal Disease, which continues unto death, and by depraved Meats and Drinks, it often comes to pass, that the Sick are either contracted in their Members, or die.

Also among Souldiers, through Immoderation, it frequently happens, that burning Feavers, Dysenteries, and other Diseases arise. In all these Evils, the highest, and most excellent Remedy is a Purgation by Vitriol, which rightly and Allegorically is called _Gryllum_. Its Dose is as much as you can take up at six times upon the point of a Knife. If that Operate not, repeat the same Dose, and if not this Dose neither, give it a third time, and it will be sufficient. To the Weak, give it in Wine or Water; but to a strong Man, that is not easily Laxative, in rich Wine. It so exhibited, will throughly purge upwards and downwards. Indeed Hellebore, both the Spurges, Coloquintida, _&c._ do famously purge also; yet not with virtues equal to Vitriol. The Reason of this is, because in Vitriol is a certain sowreness, which hath a conjoined Sharpness, Acrimony, and Detersion; by which saline sowreness the Operation obtains a full and perfect power, which neither Hellebore, nor Coloquintida, _&c._ hath. For the Nature, or way of Purgation is here two-fold: One purgeth _per se_, the other by Saltness. Therefore here the two virtues are better than the only one in Hellebore. In Saltness a Specifick Form is latent, and that of such a Nature, as all Worms touched by it die. And that is a singular power, which destroys Worms, being what none of the aforesaid doth. Therefore it is evident to every one, that a Purgation, which hath in it self sowreness and saltness, together with a Laxative virtue, doth in a double way and manner exquisitely cleanse, evacuate and purge. Wherefore, for Internal Diseases, it is twice more noble, and more excellent than other Purgations. But because I intend at large to declare to you the Nature of Vitriol, there is no need I should also explain those Internal Diseases: Yet in general I say, that a Purgation of this kind in all Vices of the Stomach, in the Falling-Evil and Vermination, is most profitable and most safe, if it be used according to the condition of time, Disease, Person, _&c._

Touching Colcothar you are to know, that it is not inwardly to be taken, but only to be applyed in Chirurgick Diseases, _viz._ in putrid Ulcers, which admit not of Sanation: For in these it discovers the way to perfect healing. Yet there are many Chirurgick Diseases, as Grievous, Malignant, Worse and Worst. Against the Worse and Worst, Colcothar is not conducent, yet is effectual against those, which consist in the first degree; and therefore to be applied to them. For the Worse and Worst of all, its Oyl is to be used according to the degree of the evil, and of the Oyl. All Ulcers of this kind, how many soever they be, are cured by Vitriol; but according to the degree, the use of it is, that it be reduced to good Colcothar, which must be certain times extinguish’d in Vinegar; and being dry, be sprinkled on, or permixed with some Plaster, which by the Physician shall be judged apt and fit for that evil. So it makes an Escar, which taken off by Fatness, a good and easie Cure follows. But the Evil, which is not obedient to this Cure, of it you shall thus judge, _viz._ that there is yet more venom latent, which must thenceforth be searched out with Oyls applied; because the Basis of the Ulcer cannot sufficiently be amended with Colcothar for an intire Sanation. If crude Vitriol be dissolved in Vinegar, and the Solution thickened with Colcothar into a Powder, and so applied, it soon cleanseth the bottom of the Ulcer much more potently, than of Colcothar is said. But the best way of reducing it to Colcothar, is to extract the water thereof, and therewith to imbibe the _Caput mortuum_, until it be consumed, afterwards to dry it leisurely in the Air. If this be used, it induceth a better bottom in Ulcers. But whatever you do, mind the degree of Ulcers, Tetters, _&c._ Whatsoever of these is not cured, set about the Cure of, with its separated Oyl and Water of which afterwards.

Although Colcothar answer not the desired end, yet by reason of that the Cure must not be despaired of, but you must think of correcting it in distilling. For by Preparation the Medicine is brought to the highest degree, so as it even cures all Ulcerous Affects, as the Wolf, Cancer, and the like. These are explained more at large where we speak of the Preparation of them.

_Of the Water of =Vitriol= in Chirurgick, and Internal Diseases._

Alchymy discovers many excellent Arts to Physicians; by which, wonderful Sanations of many Diseases are made. For this cause in the beginning of Medicine, Physicians always used Alchymy; because this was the Mother and Genetress of many Commodities. These two Faculties, [_viz._ Medicine and Alchymy] as _Sociates_ so long kept together, as until Deceivers and Humorist Sophisters arose, who mixed Venom with Medicine, and made her a Strumpet. Such Medicine as this, will always remain, as long as Humorists live. These things I thought good to premonish you of, that henceforth you may give the more diligent heed to this head Chapter, by reason of its famous Medicinal Utility.

But this is always to be premised, _viz._ That as often as unskilful Men take in hand any Art, so often do they every way defile and corrupt it, and of a Pearl make a stinking Puddle. The very same is also committed in Vitriol. At first, the Spirit from Vitriol extracted, was wont to be gradated to the highest. By this exalted, the Ancients did perfectly cure the Falling-Evil, whether Recent or Inveterate, both in Men and Women, of what Condition soever they were. But here unskilful Laborators rushing in, attempted otherwise to reduce the Virtues of Vitriol, and thus failing of the first way and _Arcanum_, they suffered that to expire, and then sought an Oyl in the Colcothar, which could not any way be made to that end, or have such a Use. For what is to take away the Epilepsie must have a subtile, sharp, and penetrable Spirit.

In that consists a faculty of piercing through the whole Body, and of leaving no one thing untouched therein. And by that pervasion, or penetration, the Disease is assaulted in its own place. For it cannot be known certainly and indubitately, whence comes the Seat, or Centre, or Period thereof. Hence we conclude, that a Physician hath only need of such Remedies, as can penetrate the whole Body. This is the Reason, why sordid Humorists heal none, but prostitute all their Doctrine and Profession. Therefore, I positively affirm, that in the Oyl, which those Laborators seek, is no penetrating Spirit. A meer Terrestreity (as I may call it) is by them used, which penetrates not at all, but where it falls there it lies. Wherefore it is greatly to be bewailed, that the true Process is suppressed by that unskilfulness, and a false substituted in its stead. But I am perswaded, the Devil contrived that, to the end the Sick should not be cured, and the Sect of Humorists might thenceforth spread the more.

Let us return to the beginning; how the Spirit of Vitriol was found out. The Humid Spirit of Vitriol was at first distilled from its Colcothar; then it was gradated, by distilling and circulating _per se_, as the Process teacheth. This way the Water began to be used for many Diseases, both Internal and External, as for the Falling-sickness, _&c._ and thus a marvellous Sanation was effected. But in the extraction they were wonderful diligent; for they took the Spirit of Vitriol corrected, as above, and distilled it from Colcothar eight or ten times, with a most strong fire; so the dry Spirits were mixed with the Humid Spirits, and the Work so long continued, as until the dry Spirits came forth together with the Humid, by extracting. Afterward, both Spirits put into a Phial were gradated to the highest. This Medicine they found to be of much more powerful Operation against Diseases, and by that Medicament effected so much, as they confounded all Humorists in General. Yet here is no Correction added to it (by Artists) by Spirit of Wine, to render it of greater Penetration. But it was of no greater degree, than as I shewed.

Now I will Communicate to you my Process, which I commend to all Physicians, especially for Cure of the Falling-Evil, the singular Cure of which, consists in Vitriol. For which cause, Charity to our Neighbour binds us to institute a more diligent Cure in this Disease. The Process is thus.

I imbibe the Vitriol with Spirit of Wine, and afterward distil it from the dry and humid Spirits: This being done, I find the following Addition to be very profitable, _viz._ If Spirit of Tartar, corrected, be mixed to a third part of the Vitriol, and Spirit of Treacle-water Camphorate, be added in a fifth part, with respect of the Vitriolate Spirits. Thus I administer it, before the assault of the Fit, or certain times in a day. This Medicine is famously efficacious against this Disease; yea, so excellent, as a better cannot be desired from Nature.

Therefore, the first Process invented by the Ancients, is to be retained with the said Correction, _viz._ by imbibing with Spirit of Wine before distillation, and by adding the Spirits of Tartar and Treacle-water after distillation, as is said. For so is attained the Heart of Nature, and every Virtue.

I hope I shall not be blamed, but commended rather by every good Man, that considers the horridness of this Disease, which would even move a stone to Commiseration. Since so great is the vehemency and horridness of this Disease, as almost any Man may lawfully say, Cursed be all Physicians, who passing by such Sick, yield them no relief, but like the _Priest_ and _Levite_ in _Jericho_, who forsaking the wounded man, left him to be cured by the _Samaritan_. I pray here give your judgment, what Condemnation were that _Priest_ and _Levite_ worthy of, who passing by the distressed, _stopped their Nose_, as the Proverb is; surely they were worthy of Hell Fire, from which is no Redemption.

And who can judge any other of all Physicians, none excepted, that look upon this Disease, and yet pass by with their Nose stopt? Who can otherwise say, than that they must render an account of it at the last day? Notwithstanding, all these men are generally so disposed, as they will not wag their hand, or bestow one penny, for acquiring a more certain Foundation for the cure of this Disease. Did they not, as it were, by compact imitate _Priests_ and _Levites_, but would rather study to imitate the _Samaritan_, GOD certainly would recompense their fidelity with a manifestation of the Secrets of Nature, with which they might be helpful to the Sick. And if such Virtues were not incited in Nature, the Almighty would undoubtedly create them anew. Therefore I testifie, together with you noble and ignoble men, that all Doctors generally have basely erred and deviated from the Truth. Whatsoever those Seducers, _Galen_, _Avicen_, _&c._ foolishly devised, to that they adhere, and relie upon those Lyes, so far are they possessed with the Devil, that they cannot exercise Charity towards their Neighbours; and in this manner they make themselves the Sons of Damnation; for their only study and drift is to heap up Wealth. The Kingdom of GOD is first of all to be sought, yet not after the fashion of the _Priest_ and _Levite_, but according to the _Samaritan_ nature. If we be merciful, and follow the example of the _Samaritan_, GOD is with us, who will presently help us with a Remedy not yet created in Nature. In the mean while, since Physicians deal with the Sick _Levitically_ and _Priest_-like, the most Wise GOD withholds Medicine, and reserves it to himself. The Sick flie to the Kingdom of GOD, but Physicians to the Infernal Abyss, prepared for _Levitical_ Doctors of the same sort. Therefore open your eyes and look, the way is two-fold, one leads to infernal shades, this the _Levites_ follow; the other way leads to Heaven, unto which the _Samaritan_ directs his Feet.

That Vitriolate _Arcanum_, and its extraction, is not only excellent in the _Falling Evil_, but is also conducent in other species like unto it, as in _Swounings_, _Extasies_, _&c._ Also it is after the same manner beneficial in all Oppilations and inward Imposthumes, and is no less efficacious in precipitation and suffocation of the Matrix. Yet in it are many more Virtues acquirable than are here commemorated, if greater diligence in inquiring be bestowed thereabout, and Physicians themselves would be better men. But the Devil, whom they serve, possesseth them, and stirs them up to the hating of Him who loves Verity. Even thus things are acted about the Health of Good Men.

It is further to be known, that the aforesaid Receipts of the preparation of the humid spirit of Vitriol cannot more clearly be described; for to understand that, a sufficient Artist is required; those sordid Decocters cannot understand a thing of so great moment. Therefore you are only to expect all-sufficient Information from true _Artists_, and _Alchymistick Laborators_; so also by them you must be fully instructed about the correction of spirit of Wine. For the Doctors of Academies are so very rude, as they can scarcely discern _Agarick_ and _Manna_. Yet this kind of Asses are created Doctors. You have Treacle-Water contained in my practice, in the Chapter of the Cure of the _Falling-Evil_; what others there are of this kind, are not here to be recited. By this Chapter you may learn, That the Art and all Virtue of Vitriol, consists in well-extracting the Spirit, and graduating it to the height, and by addition deducing it to Penetration, whereby it may search out the center, root, and seed of the Disease. For ’tis impossible so exquisitely to find the places, as those Doctors babble of Humours. Certainly, the Foundation is not yet known, as what it is that makes a Disease, or where that lies, or what that is, which casts a man into so grievous a Fit. Therefore every Operation is only to be committed to that _Arcanum_, which Nature hath directed to the Disease; that _Arcanum_ searcheth out his Disease, as the Sun penetrates all the Angles of the World. Briefly, I say, whosoever endeavours to be a true Physician, ought first of all to learn to be a _Samaritan_, not a _Priest_ or _Levite_. If he be a _Samaritan_, all things he hath need of will be given him; nothing will be occult to, or hidden from him. But to him who will first be a _Priest_ or _Levite_, nothing will be given, unless it be Infidelity, which he also had before. Thus are such men paid in their own Coin.

_Of the Red Oil of_ Vitriol.

You are also to understand, how of the _Colcothar_ by a Retortive Destillation, in a Chymical manner, a blood-like and most sowre Oil may be prepared. This Oil Laborators have judged more efficacious in the aforesaid Diseases than the Spirit, but that their judgment was erroneous. The vulgar Process of preparing it I think not to mention here; for every thing of moment is cited in manual Operation and diligent Inspection, also in convenient Instruments. As touching the Virtues you are first to understand, that it is a sowre thing, so far exceeding all sowreness, as nothing than it is more sowre. It likewise contains a corrosive nature, for which cause it had need be used circumspectly and warily, _viz._ not _per se_, but in a good Concordancy and suitable mixture, with respect to that against which it is exhibited. We will explain this by Example: The Viper is a Serpent most venomous, therefore of no use alone, but in Composition it is most excellently useful; for of it Treacle is made. The very same is also to be judged of this Oil, _viz._ That it is not to be used alone, but in a Composition suitable and fit, as of Treacle we have said. By reason of its sowrness, it profits a Stomach free from Choler and an Imposthume; but if either an Imposthume or Choler be present, it is manifest by Experience, that it hath no good effect. For the Imposthume is inraged by it, and exasperated by such sowrness, passeth into an unquiet matter. And if Choler be present, a mutual Ebullition and Strife is caused, no otherwise than as is seen between _Aqua-fortis_ and _Tartar_, neither of which can remain or persist with the other. Therefore diligently and circumspectly consider, lest you erre to the damage of the Sick. In Composition this Oil is profitable for other Affects, as in all Fevers and want of Appetite, if given in the aforesaid manner, _viz._ in a good concordancy. There are many other Virtues said to be in this Oil, but Experience confirms few of them. I have seen and proved those to be egregious Lyars, who have boasted, that they could do Wonders with this Oil. It is true, it is useful in the _Stone_ and _Gravel_, yet I have known no man cured by it. In all it doth something, but not to purpose: Yet in my Practice, in the Chapter of the Cure of _Gravel_, you shall find a Composition thereof, for this and other diseases. But as I said of the Corrosion of this Oil, used by it self, so I do also affirm, that the same Corrosion hath power of diminishing or breaking the _Stone_, and expelling _Gravel_; yet that is done with so great difficulty, as there is need of some other Invention, than hath hitherto been practised; for otherwise it may not safely be used. As much as any man hath gained by Experience, so much I allow of. This Medicine is new; wherefore it daily ought to be proved anew, and as oft as need is permixed with new Compositions.

But as to Chirurgery, of this Oil you are to note, It doth indeed excite great dolours, yet it inferrs present Health, even in the most difficult diseases. For in the Hereditary Scab of the Head, called _Achores_, it is so effectual, as it takes the same off in one whole piece, as a Man pulls off an Helmet from his Head. With this Oil the whole Head is to be anointed with a Feather, where it is hairy, for 3 daies continually; then expect its Operation. If you see it not sufficient, anoint it more often, according as the Scab shall be. The same Oil may also be co-tempered and mixed with Water of _Selandine_, and the Head often washed therewith. Yet he who would be healed, must not think that his Cure can be effected without dolour; for the condition of the Sick is the same as of a pregnant Woman, which brings not forth without exceeding great pain. So Meat, without pain, cannot be prepared for us; with dolour and sweat also we are freed from diseases. This way all _Tetters_, _Scabs_, and _Itch_, together with all other Vices of the skin, howsoever arising, are healed; and likewise the depraved _Tentigo_, by anointing herewith, is cured, and the _Wolf_ and _Cancer_ expelled and mortified; yet in this case you must diligently observe, if the Evil be very forcible (that the Venom so deeply penetrate, as the quick and sound flesh be in success of time like to be eaten away and fall off) to apply a good _Oppodeloch_ for a defensive.

But in whatsoever estiomenous Ulcers, other Remedys be deficient, this Medicine yields relief, by reason of the degree it holds. It will not be improper to mix this Oil with some fat Unguent, and so apply it. This way it will cause less pain, but it is not so swift in operating: _Dolour_ can by no means be avoided, no more than a Woman in Travel can be delivered without pains. The best, and most sublime way of preparing this Oil, is to destil it into spirit; so a very small weight will be sufficient in all the aforesaid diseases, which are then removed with little trouble.

These things I have found out by experience of the Red Oil of Vitriol, which in grievous diseases is an excellent and famous Medicine; for fetid and contagious diseases of this kind, as are the _Scab_, _Itch_, _Tetter_, _Achores_, and other like Affects, which are of affinity to the _Leprosie_, may be cured by this great Gift of Nature, which is here offered to the Physician, by which he may effectually cleanse and heal diseased men. There is not an abundance of Remedies of this kind, therefore I will carefully preserve this Oil, _&c._ for all other Coctures are nothing worth, nor do they remove these loathsome diseases, but with their fatness do cause them to be reincrudated and encreased.

_Of the White and Green Oil of =Vitriol=._

It is worthy of consideration, that from crude Vitriol an Oil is destilled by descent, sometimes white, and sometimes green, according to the condition of the Vitriol. This Oil deserves a singular commendation; for since it is prepared of crude Vitriol, therefore it also contains the spirit of the same, touching which I have above treated. This Oil, made by descent, demonstrates by those its Virtues that it is an excellent and admirable Remedy for the before-mentioned internal diseases. The same Oil whether it be white or green, (but the green is better) if circulated and mixed with the above-commemorated spirit of Vitriol, is a certain and indubitate Remedy against the Falling-Evil, and all its species. But it is worthy your observation, that this disease is seldome so solitary, as not to have other Evils concurrent with it. Indeed, that such a concurrency is, is evidently manifest by all diseases. Hence it is now clear, that a Remedy against the principal Evil is not sufficient, but Secrets against concurrent symptoms are also required. For this cause in my Practise I have designed a peculiar Chapter of the Falling-Evil, not for the principal Remedy sake, which in this place is sufficiently described, but only for the understanding of those things, which concurr together with the first Affect. If other Accidents do not concurr together with the first Affect, there is no need of exhibiting other Medicaments than the principal, which is sufficient. Therefore, touching the green Oil, thus do ye: Graduate it to the highest, that it may be separated from its terrestreity and fæces, in _Balneo_ first, afterward in dry Fire. So in _Balneo_ the phlegm is taken away, and the terrestreity removed by dry Fire, and the spirit of the Oil only is collected, which in it self is circulated. Afterward you may make addition with spirit of Wine, but there is no need of adding more, if it be only to be used as a Primary Remedy, without Medication of coherent diseases.

It is to be given in Water of Pæony, alwaies before the coming of the Fit, whether it be frequent or seldome, _&c._ Therefore mind the Paroxisms. As soon as the spirit of the Oil finds out the center of the disease, then the Fit is pacified, and thenceforth waxeth more and more gentle. But when it exerciseth a power of Healing, it first of all excites a _Vertigo_ sensible to the Sick, who notwithstanding do not fall nor foam, nor are shaken, or quake, nor deprived of reason, but are seized with a gentle sleep, and are much better presently. At length the _Vertigo_ also ceaseth, and the sleep is ended; yet in the mean while the Medicine must continually be applied, several times reiterated, according to the condition of the Disease and Patient. This way the Cure is to be followed, and all things diligently administred. This belongs not to a drunken Physician, or _Doctor Levite_.

_Of the =Vitriolate Oyl= to be used in =Alchymy=, and also of
the Crude._

Now to speak of the Alchymistick Virtues absconded in Vitriol: I will first propose to you the Virtues of Crude Vitriol: How every Crude Vitriol of Iron makes Copper. For the Alchymist doth not this, but Nature, or Vitriol, by the Operation of the Alchymist performs the same. And this is the sublime power of Nature. And in the light of Nature it is done, but not without admiration; to see any Metal, as it were put off it self, and become another; which is almost, as if of a Man, a Woman should be made. But in these things Nature hath her singular Privilege granted by GOD, for the sake of Man. I speak this of Transmutation, that you may understand, that the foolish Philosopher _Aristotle_, was not well grounded in his Philosophy, but was meerly fatuate. Now I will give you the Receipt, that you may know how, in all places of _Germany_, to make Copper of Iron; whence we may easily gather, what the power of Transmutation is, and that many other Transmutations may be made; although they as yet be unknown to Us.

To change Iron into Copper is not of so great moment, as to turn Iron into Gold. Therefore, what is least, GOD manifests, but the greater is yet hid, until the _Elias of Sciences_ shall come: For Arts also, want not their _Elias_. The Receipt of this Transmutation is thus.

_R._ Of the Scales, or Filings of Iron (without all other Metals, as Copper, Tin, _&c._) ℔ j. Quick-silver, ℔ _ss._ Put both into a large Iron Pan, or Pot, and pour on them one Measure of Vinegar, and of Vitriol ℥ _iiij._ Sall-Armoniack, ℥ _j._ _ss._ Boil them together, and continually stir them well with a Wooden Spatula. If the Vinegar vapour away, pour on more, and add new Vitriol.

By this Decoction, Iron is changed into Copper: If it be made Copper, it all passeth into the Quick-silver, the boiling being continued for ten or twelve hours. After the Cocture is ended, separate the Quick-silver from the Iron (as much of it as is left) and well wash it, that it may be clean. Put that Quick-silver into a Bag made of Leather or Cotton, and press it out; so you will see an Amalgama left. Suffer that Amalgama to expire by Vulcanick Heat, and you will find pure and good Copper. Of this Copper, _R._ ℥ _ss._ of Silver as much, make them flow, or melt them together, and the Silver will presently ascend to the sixteenth degree. This way you may prove, that such Copper is made of Iron: But that the degrees are fixed, is not true. Yet he, who in Regal Cement is able well to operate, may thence receive a sufficient Recompence for his pains. The whole business consists in the Operation, and in Judicious labouring: Yet in this most men erre. Nevertheless, by the aforesaid Process, you may always make Copper of Iron. I so often inculcate this, only to confirm the transmutation of one into another.

Also of Vitriol such is the Nature, as if the Colcothar thereof be calcined, it with easie liquefaction is turned into Copper. For in it is a wonderful Coppery Nature, and in Copper also a Nature of greatest Affinity to Vitriol. If Copper be dissolved in _Aquafortis_, and Crystallized, it makes every Copper Vitriol, and it is no more Copper: So also of Vitriol, Copper is made; and that is no more Vitriol. Therefore the Reason of such Affinity in Vitriol and Copper is very strange. What is Cuprous or of Copper, makes good Vitriol. So Verdigrease, which is good and highly gradated, gives a Saphyrick Vitriol.

Although it may seem ridiculous for us to discourse of these things; yet it cannot be deny’d, that in Vitriol a Tincture is latent, which is of greater efficacy than many can believe. Blessed is he that understands this. But touching the Oil of Vitriol, further note. If the Oil of Quick-silver, and this Oil be conjoined, and so coagulated in their Process, a Saphire of wonderful Nature and Condition is produced: Not indeed a Saphire stone, but like unto it, of an admirable Tincture; of this I will say no more. Hence it is evident, that stupendous, and to be admir’d _Arcanums_ are treasured up in Nature, and in many other things created by GOD, and produced by Nature. Now, it would be more commendable for us to search out these things with an indefatigable labour and study, than to consume our days in Luxury, Drunkenness, Whoredom, _&c._ But at this time, Lascivious Whoremongers, are in greatest Honour, and so are like to be, until with these Vices one third part of Men be suffocated, and another third part destroyed by Pestilence; so as one part of the World, will scarcely remain untainted, or unconsumed. For with this abomination the World cannot long endure, nor good Arts flourish. Therefore, of necessity these evil Courses must be annihilated and cut off, otherwise no good can have place. But when this evil time is expired, the Golden age shall flourish; that is, Man at length shall use his own Understanding, and live as a Man, not as a Brute, nor act as a Swine, or lie in the Caves of Murtherers or Robbers.

Therefore, since I have communicated to you these things of Vitriol, out of my good affection to all; I do earnestly entreat all Physicians in general, when they shall see the unhappy and miserable sick so afflicted with that most grievous Disease the Falling-Evil, seriously to confider, what GOD the Creator, their own Consciences, and Charity to their Neighbour, command and require of them in such a deplorable State as this; and not contemn, or slightly esteem of the Virtues, which by GOD himself are insited in Vitriol. Let Charity move you night and day to be diligent in these things: Let none be found idle, but every one make it his business to help his needy Neighbour: But be not you deterred herefrom, because Lawyers do not this. Hear what Christ said: _Woe to you Lawyers_. Surely this is not a light Saying. Nor take you any offence at _Theologians_, because they rather seek Rewards and Salaries, than take care for the sick: These are they, which in _Jericho_ passed by. Be ye _Samaritans_, and press after the _Samaritan_ Virtue: So GOD will conferr on you such profound and necessary Gifts, as in curing the sick you shall be sensible of no Deficiency. All things you have need of shall be given you, do you only search out this Treasure.

Thus far _Paracelsus_.

An Admonition.

Although all things we have in the foregoing Discourse proposed, touching our _Sal Mirabile_, be consentaneous to Verity; and the Virtues, which we have ascribed to it in Medicine, Alchymy, and various Arts, do powerfully discover themselves, yet we find very much diversity in it, according to the diversity of matter, of which it is made. For, that which is prepared of Vitriol, is of a far other Nature, and endowed with far other Properties, than that, which is made of _Salt-Nitre_. And what is made of common Salt, agrees with neither of these: For one possesseth a greater sharpness than another; yea, this more than that, dissolves Metals. The more potent, are fit for Transmutation and Solution of Metals; the more weak subservient to Medicine; the weakest, and most sweet, profitable for multiplication and propagation of Vegetables.

These things, he who would reap the desired Fruits of his Labours, ought necessarily to know, and consider accurately of. For if any one, in hopes of future Multiplication, committed to the Earth the Seeds of Vegetables imbibed with the stronger Salt, he will indeed never obtain his desired end, nor will the Earth give forth any Plants, because such sharp Salts do rather destroy, than augment Vegetables. In like manner, Metals are delighted with a convenient Salt, _viz._ with the more sharp, as Vegetables are with the more sweet. Therefore, when we find our labour to be frustrated, we must not impute that to the _Sal Mirabile_, but to our own Unskilfulness.

Indeed these Salts are endowed with far more noble Virtues than we mentioned in the precedent Discourse; but the high Ingratitude of Men of this Age, permit us not to discover the same. For if you communicate your Secrets to those Men, from whom you cannot require a promise of Secrecy; be assured, the knowledge of those Secrets will presently come to others, who will proudly use the same to thy Disparagement.

If you do the contrary, and keep to your self, whatsoever you have purchased by your own Labour and Costs; you will create Enmities to your self. So as which way soever you take, you will sustain loss.

The Consideration of these things, have caused me to resolve to expose my Laboratory, with all my Arcanums, to the view of others. The end of this only was to exhibit to the sight of all, the truth of those things, which I have purchased with indefatigable Labour, and communicated to the World by writing; that this way, the Mouths of the Malevolent and Ignorant may be stopped.

I could, if it were needful, give various other Reasons, by which I was moved to make my Laboratory common to those that desired it.

Now the year is past, in which I promised _in my fourth part of the Prosperity of_ Germany, I would build a Laboratory, and exhibit the Wonders of GOD to my Friends. I then publickly and privately demonstrated various most excellent Inventions, not without labour and very great Charges, all which I value not, since I know, that by this means I have discovered the Truth to many, which they also will publickly own to the honour of the most high GOD, and Correction of envious Detracters.

I did purpose also, in the following year, to continue my Labours for the sake of faithful Friends, but (besides other hinderances) my Age prevented that, Nevertheless, those, to whom I have committed my Laboratory, will perform the same, and exhibit a Light to this blind World. This I was willing to signifie to all, that they may for the future cease to trouble me with Letters.

But whilst I exhibit the Virtues of my _Sal Mirable_, and to it (prepared in Glasses after the above recited manner) ascribe the virtue of changing imperfect Metals into Silver and Gold, I would not have this matter so understood, as if we could by the help of it acquire to our selves Gold in a very great quantity, it is sufficient to have demonstrated the possibility (of Transmutation) and the same to be proved by a small quantity.

It is most certain, that very many Medicaments may be prepared, by the help of it, against various effects of the Humane Body. Also it is most certain, that it is very conducent for a particular gradation of the Minor Metals into better. Believe me, that have experienced the same; if you rightly proceed, you will reap no mean Fruits.

But touching the true Universal, I do question, whether by the help of it, it may be procured. Assuredly, if common Gold, as to its degree, can be changed above what is Natural, Why should it be judged impossible, to exalt it further, in length of time? time? My decrepid Age forbids me to put my hand to this Work; yet to Posterity (better able than I to sustain the heat of fire) occasion is given, by Prayers and Labour to search further; perhaps, GOD will grant to them, what he hath denied to us.

This Operation, by which we peculiarly draw profit from the Minor Metals, cannot be performed in common Crucibles, as we before said; because they are obnoxious to breaking, and so the Liquors are easily lost; but in such as will not easily break, unless after a long time, and will not permit the humid Salt to run out. Here it will be needful to peruse those things (relating to this matter) which I mentioned in the Third and Fourth Parts of the _Prosperity of_ Germany.

To prepare these Crucibles is a great Work, greater to make some Pounds of Salt, or rightly to use the same; but greatest of all, (and in which the summ of all consists) to know what Metals are to be joined, or in what quantity. Here many will have enough to do, and be at a loss, although they enjoy my Secret Furnace, and know how to make the Salt of Art in abundance.

Besides all these, we must needs crack the hard Nut, if we will eat the sweet Kernel. It is required of us to know an easie way of separating Gold or Silver from fixed Metals; for such a Metallick Mass, altogether untameable, cannot be separated by the help of Lead, _per se_, as Ductile Metals; but here is need of another Separation; which is the principal thing.

Nor should any Man perswade himself, that all things are here so clearly written by us, as he can by their literal sence most easily institute the Operation. For there is need of a long time, and a skilful Master. It would be a very inconsiderate thing to set about those things, of which we have no knowledge.

Although this is my Admonition, here often repeated, yet there will be some, who neglecting it, will set about the said Operation, and perhaps find out various profitable things: In like manner, there will be various found, who following my Prescripts, will reap much benefit from the Minor Metals.

Who can deny, but that _Mary Ranta, a Brittain_, hath Prophesied truly, _viz._ That true Alchymy should flourish in the Year of Christ, 1660? I my self have not seen this Prediction, but have it from the Relation of others, whereunto I refer the Reader. And add, that if such a Prediction were not, daily Experience doth abundantly witness, that egregious things are here and there performed in Metallicks, by help of my _Sal-Mirabile_. And there is no doubt, but that all Darkness will daily more and more be dissipated by the power of this Light.

I have unto some communicated the use of this Light for their proper benefit; but these, contrary to my Intention, have caused what I thought to have kept secret, to be spread abroad in publick and many have hit on the right way leading to Verity. If this be done without my knowledge, what would not have been done, if my Laboratory had been open for a year longer? Certainly the World would have shewed it self other than it is, and altogether new; which the new and great Star extending it self from the South to the West, seems to indicate.

Let the most high GOD grant what are necessary, and salutary for us, turn the Ungodly into the right way, and give to his own Children, Rest and Peace, that his most Holy Name and Truth always to be magnified, may not be totally suppressed by the Impious. _Amen._

ANNOTATIONS
UPON THE
CONTINUATION
OF
Miraculum Mundi.

Explaining and Defending the _SECRETS_ therein contained;
As also the True _Aurum Potabile_ therein mentioned.

It is truly said, that He who builds an House by the Highway exposeth his Building to the judgments of all sorts of men, and to their censure especially who have not skill enough in Architecture, to erect a Country Cottage. The same is wont to happen to those who write concerning things not common or unknown. For you shall presently hear People saying, _Who knows whether this be true or not?_ thereby signifying that they cannot perceive those things which exceed their Capacity; but nevertheless they will not altogether reject them, because they are yet in doubt concerning the truth of them. This their doubting is not to be taken ill, because it proceedeth from ignorance, but not from envy. On the contrary, there is another sort of perverse men, who being puffed up with their own putatitious knowledge, despise unknown things, not out of simplicity or ignorance, but out of a meer diabolical envy to those who have a greater knowledge and experience of things than themselves.

This hath also happened, and doth daily happen to me, especially since the publishing of my _Miraculum Mundi_, in that I have there disclosed Secrets of great moment, of which the Vulgar, nor yet the bubbles of Envy, have plainly no knowledge; and therefore out of meer Envy, reproach them for Unprofitable and False.

But to stop the mouths of such persons, I intend shortly to build a spacious and well-furnished Laboratory, and in it to place a good Laborious Operator, who being occupied therein with continual Labours, shall shew the Divine Wonders to those who desire to see the same. Which being done, I shall have no farther need to defend my Writings against every Calumniator; seeing that I know there will be those (GOD willing) hereafter, who will defend the truth which they have seen with their eyes and handled with their hands.

In this Laboratory shall be seen not only those Artificial destilling Furnaces, and my Press for Wood, with the circulatory Instruments necessary for the easie making of Salt-Petre; but also those things shall be shewed, which I have treated of in my _Miraculum Mundi_, and its Continuation, yea, and much more than I have there declared.

Those things also which I have ascribed to my _Aurum Potabile_ shall be demonstrated to be the very truth, _viz._ That crude Mercury, in an hour or two’s time, may be by it converted into pure Gold. Nor shall this only be proved, but also that after my _Aurum Potabile_ hath tinged and changed the ☿ into pure and constant Gold, that nevertheless it hath yet great Virtue, _viz._ that any Arsenick, whether white or yellow, being digested in it for some hours, is so changed, that its poisonous quality passeth into a good Medicine, resisting all Poison. Nor doth it only become a powerful Medicine against venomous and incurable diseases, which cannot be eradicated by purging, bleeding, sweating, and the like Remedies, whilst it Tinctureth the evil Humours in the Blood and other parts of the Body, and changeth them into good Humours. But this also being changed into Medicine, and its Venom converted, sheweth its power in Metals; if it be cast upon melted Copper, then the Copper poured out and proved on a Cupel with Saturn, leaveth behind it some good Silver and Gold. These two proofs are sufficient for the defence of my _Aurum Potabile_. But that any one may be yet rendered more certain, after those two Experiments, _viz._ the coagulation and transmutation of Mercury into pure Gold, and the conversion of poisonous Arsenick into a safe Medicament, he may yet try a third, and that indeed incredible, with the same _Aurum Potabile_ that hath been twice used, as before, and this not upon mild or slight Poisons, but upon the most dangerous and indefensible both to Men, Beasts, and all living things, to wit, Mercury sublimate, which being digested for some hours in the said _Aurum Potabile_, layeth aside all its horrid and formidable Venom, and passeth into a safe Purging and Diaphoretick Medicine, and losing its former white Colour and corrosive Venom, it becomes a sweet red Powder, purging out the _Gout_, _Pox_, _Leprosie_, and other detestable diseases, and impregnateth Saturn in some measure with a Golden Tincture. So also white Arsenick, after digestion, putteth off its white colour, loseth its corrosive faculty, and is changed into a sweet and yellow powder.

These Experiments and Proofs ought not to be hidden to the Studious of good Medicines, but to be made manifest to the everlasting and immortal testimony of the Truth, against all ignorant Sophisters whatsoever.

I have, for my defence, the most sharp Sword of Truth, whose edge, if any desire to feel, let him come forth; the defence of the Truth will be grateful and easie to me, although the malice of the whole world should oppose me. I here challenge all those Calumniators who being moved by a diabolical envy, have endeavoured to oppose my most true Writings; let them come forth with their Lyes into the open light, and into the view of the whole World, and shew any Experiment like to those which I here promise to shew, that we may see how filthily or basely they will appear, like the darkness vanishing by the light and splendour of the Sun. If they cannot, as indeed it is not in their power, (_for he that hath any knowledge of things never contemneth a good one_) nor will be possible for them to do; forasmuch as they know nothing, it is but reasonable that for the time to come they should restrain their virulent tongues, and cease to calumniate those things which they neither know nor understand.

I do not wonder that those Slanderers, attempting the coagulation of Mercury into Gold, have erred, seeing that it hath sometimes happened to my self, that I have erred two or three times together, and could not effect that Transmutation, until the cause thereof was known to me: For if through too much haste the humidity of the _Aurum Potabile_ shall exhale or evaporate too fast, the Mercury being dried up, cannot be sufficiently penetrated, nor throughly tinged.

An errour also may be committed, if the glass containing the Mercury and the _Aurum Potabile_ grow hot too fast, so that the Mercury with the _Aurum Potabile_ boil, and leaps, disperseth it self by too much motion, and exhibiteth it self in form of a powder, when it ought to remain in the bottom, concreted into a round mass. So will he also greatly erre, who shall use Mercury that is not pure and clean, but adulterated, and defiled with many sordes or impurities, which Impediments deny ingress to the Tincture, and render the trial uncertain and precarious. Therefore it is necessary that the Mercury be first well ground with Salt and Vinegar, in a _lignum vitæ_, or Stone or Glass Mortar, and by a diligent washing freed from all its blackness, whereby it more easily admitteth the Tincture. I have found that Mercury very fit for this Operation, which is sublimed by the _Fulmen of Jove_, into which my _Aurum Potabile_ hath a swift Ingress, and tingeth the whole of it.

Truly it shews the great ignorance and boldness of those Calumniators, to dare to spread such false clamours and rumours, saying, _That Mercury cannot be indeed tinged into Gold by my =Aurum Potabile=, but that the Gold which was before in my =Aurum Potabile= applieth it self to the Mercury, and in some sort coagulateth it, but doth not render it fixt and constant_. But this is indeed a very rude and ignorant Assertion, which every one but meanly versed in the handling of Gold and Mercury, is able to detect of Folly.