Biolychnium or The Lamp

P R Æ F A T I O.

The rest, which are in the treasuries of the Elements, the Seeds and the astral bonds of corporeal things, they bring to the use of man, and they segregate whatever is Quinta Essentia Fifth Essence—that is, of a more perfect Nature—from the more imperfect. For Nature, the most modest Mother of all, did not go forth into the open scene of this Greater World naked, but was veiled in its own coverings, convenient to such Majesty. Thus, it hid the kernel in the chestnut with a double bark and a covering so rough. Thus, it left pure medicine for its offspring, being most indulgent even to the most abject fetus: But it did not act as a charlatan or a druggist, a circulator, to prostitute it indiscriminately to all, both the diligent and the drones, but commanded Art and Industry, the most vigilant handmaidens, to obey its nod, which do not obey as if coerced, but with indefatigable study and care uniquely observe such a Mistress, who has such liberal and friendly servants. These women stand perpetually by the one giving birth, and perform the duty of the most faithful and skillful Midwives diligently, and every fetus entangled in its own knots