By what other name has Chemistry been known?
It was sometimes called Alchemy; by which is properly understood a refined and mysterious species of chemistry, formerly much practised.
What were its objects?
The discovery of the art of converting metals into gold, including the search after the "Philosopher's Stone," by which this change was to be effected; and the discovery of a panacea or medicine for the cure of all diseases.
What was the Philosopher's Stone?
A substance, for numbers of years eagerly sought for, whichwas to convert metals, such as lead, copper, &c. into gold. This unknown substance was called the Philosopher's Stone, probably on account of the number of learned men who engaged in the search after it.
UNITED STATES SIGNAL STATION, PIKE'S PEAK, COLORADO.
Was this search successful?
No; but the delusion lasted several centuries, notwithstanding the failures, losses, and disappointments of those engaged in it. Indeed, so severe and ruinous were these, in many instances, that laws were passed to forbid the study. In Germany, many of the alchemists who had the unfortunate reputation of possessing this wonderful stone were imprisoned and furnished with apparatus till they should purchase their liberty by making an ounce of gold.