_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.