TO THE READER

To the Candid Reader.

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I have considered it worthwhile, candid reader, to inform you of the reason for my undertaking original: "rationem instituti mei".
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And specifically, at the outset, why I wished this book to be published original: "in lucem prodire," literally "to come forth into the light" with such a title prefixed to it. For indeed, I have no doubt that it may seem to many too pompous and boastful: But he who does not find it a burden to run through this entire little book original: "libellum" with both mind and eyes will find that the names here match the subjects themselves. For what miracles do not reveal themselves in the production of the Philosopher’s Stone: "Lapis Philosophicus," the legendary substance believed to be capable of turning base metals into gold and conferring longevity, in particular transmutations: "transmutationibus," the alchemical process of changing one substance into another, in Philosophical Salts: "Salibus Philosophicis," purified mineral salts used as reagents in alchemical work, extracts, distilled waters, and so forth?
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What medical mysteries: "mysteria medica," referring to the hidden or "occult" healing properties of chemically prepared medicines are found in the final part of this little work?
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Therefore, read first and understand, then judge—and not before. I am certainly not un-
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aware that to a master of this art, there are neither miracles nor mysteries. For thus, in every art, even the most abstruse difficult to understand, nothing is marvelous or rare to the expert.
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But let these things pass. Why, however...