CHAP. II.
Of the Definition of the Subject and Matter of the Tincture of Natural Things.
Before I come to the Process of the Tincture, it is convenient I should discover to you the Subject thereof; for this was alwaies kept secret (with a peculiar concealment) by the Lovers of Verity. Therefore the matter of the Tincture (here you must understand me in a Spagyrick sence) is a certain thing, which from three passeth into, or remains in one Essence, by the Art of Vulcan. But that I may signifie the same to you by its Name; according to ancient use, it is by many called the Red-Lion, but by few known. This, by the help of Nature, and the Art of the Artist, may be transmuted into a white Eagle, and of one two be made; yet then the golden splendour shines not so much to the Artist, for they two kept in one shine more. Now, if you understand not the use of Caballists and ancient Astronomers, thou art not born of GOD for the Spagyrick Art, nor by Nature chosen for the Vulcanick Work, nor created to open thy mouth in Alchymistick Arts. Therefore, the matter of the Tincture is a very rich Pearl, and a most precious Treasure, and the noblest thing (next to the manifestation of the most High) and most worthy of humane consideration, that can be in the earth. This is the LILI of Alchymy and Medicine, which Philosophers have so diligently sought, but through defect of intire knowledge, and perfect Preparation, they attained not to the perfect end thereof. By their Searches and Experiences, a Beginning only of the Tincture is given to us; but the true Foundation which my Collegues should imitate, was left to me; wherefore no man must mix his Vizors with our Intentions. I, after my long Experiences, deservedly correct Spagyrists and separate the false or erroneous from the true, having by continual Searches found out those things, by reason of which I may justly reprehend and alter many and diverse things. Yet had I found the Experiments of the Ancients more excellent than my own, I would not have sustained so great Labours, as I willingly undertook for the sake, profit, and honour of all good Alchymists, &c. Therefore, since the subject of the Tincture is so sufficiently declared, as a more faithful discovery cannot, nor must be made between two Brothers, I will enter upon the Preparation thereof; and after I have posited the Experiences of the First Age, I will also add my own Inventions, unto which, in time to come, the Age of Grace will adhere, whomsoever thou (Sophister) from thy own Philosophy in the mean while shalt constitute Patriarchs or Principals.