Physiologia Epicuro-Gassendo-Charltoniana, or, A fabrick of science natural, upon the hypothesis of atoms founded by Epicurus repaired [by] Petrus Gassendus ; augmented [by] Walter Charleton ...

SECT. I.

THe Genealogy of those sensible Qua∣lities of Concretions which arise from either of the three Essen∣tial Proprieties of Atoms,* 1.1 in its Single capacity, thus far extend∣ing it self; here begins that other of those, which result from any Two, or All of the same Proprieties, in their several Combinations, or Associations.

Of this order,* 1.2 the First are Heat, Cold, Humidity, Siccity; which though the Schools, building on the fundamentals of their Dictator, Aristotle, derive immediately and solely from the 4 First Qualities of the vulgar Elements, Fire, Aer, Wa∣ter, Earth; yet, because those reputed Elements are but several Compo∣sitions of the Universal matter, and so must desume their respective Qua∣lities from the consociated Proprieties of the same; and because the origi∣nal of no one of those Qualities can be so intelligibly made out from any o∣ther Principles: therefore doth our reason oblige us, to deduce them only from the Magnitude, Figure, and Motion of Atoms.

Concerning the First of this Quaternary, HEAT; we well know,* 1.3 that it is commonly conceived and defined by that relation, it bears to the sense of touching in Animals; or, as it is the Efficient of that passion, or Acute Pain, as Plato (in Timaeo) calls it, which Fire, or immoderate Heat impresseth upon the skin, or other organ of touching; yet, forasmuch as this Effect, which it causeth in the sensient part of an Animal, is only spe∣cial and Relative; therefore ought we to understand its Nature, from some General and Absolute Effect, upon which that Special and Relative one depends, and that is the Penetration, Discussion and Dissolution of Con∣cretions.

* 1.4To come therefore to the Determination of its Essence, by the explana∣tion of its Original; by Heat, as from our praecedent Disquisition of the Origine of Qualities in General may be praesumed, we do not understand any Aristolet••••••, i. e. naked or Immaterial Quality, altogether abstract from matter: but certain Particles of matter, or Atoms, which being essentially endowed with such a determinate Magnitude, such a certain Figure, and such a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Motion, are comparated to insinuate themselves into Con∣crete Bodies, to penetrate them, dissociate their parts, and dissolve their Contextur 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to produce all thus mutations in them, which are common∣ly 〈…〉〈…〉 Heat, or Fire. Not that we gainsay, but Heat may be con∣sidered 〈…〉〈…〉, or as it is a certain peculiar Manner, without which a substanc•• 〈…〉〈…〉 which sense Anaximene•• (apud Plutarch, de 〈…〉〈…〉 allowed to have spoken tollerably, when he said, 〈…〉〈…〉 substantial, but affirm only, that it is not 〈…〉〈…〉 independent upon matter ••as most have 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈…〉〈…〉 ought else, in Reality, but Atoms themselves, 〈…〉〈…〉 Concretions; so of all their Faculties 〈…〉〈…〉 Motion, so all Action ought to be im∣puted.

* 1.5〈…〉〈…〉 from which we derive this noble and most 〈…〉〈…〉 be not Hot essentially; yet do they deserve the 〈…〉〈…〉 of Heat, or Calorifick Atoms, insomuch as they have 〈…〉〈…〉 to Create Heat, i. e. cause that Effect, which consist∣eth 〈…〉〈…〉 Discussion, Exsolution. Likewise, those Bodies which 〈…〉〈…〉 such Atoms, and may emit them from themselves; ought also to be 〈…〉〈…〉 Hot, insomuch as that by the emission of their Calori∣fick 〈…〉〈…〉 empowered to produce Heat in other bodies: and 〈…〉〈…〉 Actually emit them, i. e. give their Calorifick Atoms liber∣ty 〈…〉〈…〉 Motions, after exsilition; then may they be 〈…〉〈…〉 or Formally Hot, as the Schools phrase it; but which 〈…〉〈…〉 them within themselves, and hinder their exsilition, they are 〈…〉〈…〉 To the First of these Difference••, we are to re∣fer 〈…〉〈…〉 Second, not only all those things, which Physicians call 〈…〉〈…〉 such as Wine, Euphorlium, Peper, &c. but 〈…〉〈…〉, combustion, incalescence and the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈…〉〈…〉 objected, such as Wood, Resine, Wax, 〈…〉〈…〉 be conceived to contain igneous or Calorifick 〈…〉〈…〉 or imprisonment in Concretions, 〈…〉〈…〉 so not produce Heat; but immediately 〈…〉〈…〉, or emption, they manifest their nature 〈…〉〈…〉.

* 1.6〈…〉〈…〉 What kind of Atoms these Calorifick ones are, and 〈…〉〈…〉 Heat depends; Democritus, Epicurus, 〈…〉〈…〉 Atomists unanimously tell us, that they are Exile in 〈…〉〈…〉 in Figure, most Swift in Motion. And this upon 〈…〉〈…〉 That they must be most Exile in bulk, is 〈…〉〈…〉 that no Concretion can be so compact and solid, 〈…〉〈…〉 find some pores or small inlets, whereat to insinuate 〈…〉〈…〉 of it, and penetrate thorow its substance; 〈…〉〈…〉 a number, as is required, to the total dissolu∣tion

of its Contexture, as in the Adamant, which as Naturalists affirm, no Fire can demolish or dissolve. (2.) That they ought to be Spherical in Figure, is probable, yea necessary from hence; that of all others they are most Agile, and evolve themselves quoquoversùm, on all parts of the Con∣cretion, into which they are admitted. And Geometry teacheth, that no figure is so easily moved, as a Sphere, whether naturally, or violently. First, Naturally; because, by how much neerer to a Sphere the figure of any so∣lid body approacheth, by so much the more speedily doth it descend, as is observed of globular stones in Water: and a round stone rowles it self far∣ther and swifter downe hill, than a plane or angular one. Secondly, Violently, because a globular stone may be projected much farther, than one of any other figure. This is also evident in the Motion of Volutation; so that the line of direction to the Centre of the World (if any such there be) con∣sisting in the axis of the Globe, the motion of it is most hardly refracted and arrested. For, there are 3 points, thorowe which the direct imaginary line, in which alone a Globe can quiesce, must pass, viz. the Centre of the World, the Centre of Gravity in the Globe, and the point of Contact: and if either of these 3 be without, or beside the line of quiet, a Globe once moved shall never rest, but be continually moved, until all the 3 points be in the line of direction. Furthermore, how easie it is to impel•• a Globe, is demonstrable meerly from hence, that being posited upon a perfect plane, it can touch the same but only in one point; and so relying upon that point, may most easily be deturbed from that slender support; but in all other Figures the reason of innixion or Relying, is quite contrary. Lastly, as a sphere doth most easily admit an imprest motion; so doth it longest retain the same, most violently press upon other occurring bodies, and most equally dispence its conceived force; as hath been profoundly demonstrated by Magnenus (in theoricae militaris lib. 1. theorem. 4. & 5) (3) And that they must be also superlatively swift in motion, may be argued not only à posteriori, from the impetuous discussion and separation of the particles of bodies by them, and their uncessant aestuation among themselves arietating each other: but also à Priori, because, being spherical, they are most mobile. Thus much, at least in importance, we have from Philoponus (in 1 physic.) where he saith, Sphaericus Atomos, tanquàm facillimè mobiles, esse Cal••ris, ignisque caussas; quatenus enim sunt facilè mobiles, dividunt, sub••••mque velociùs: id quippe ignis proprium est, & dividere, & moveri facilè posse. And albeit Plato would not have the Atoms of Fire to be spherical, but Pyramidal; because having most exile points, slender angles; and acute sides, they might be more accommodate for Penetration or su••ingression: yet, to the Division or Cutting of bodies, He requires 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉. the Exiquity of particles, and celerity of Mo∣tion. So that the Patrons of Atoms praesuming the Calorifick Atoms to be extreamly Exile, i. e as small as Plato supposeth the points and angles of his Pyramids to be: we do not perceive any considerable difference be∣twixt their opinion and his. But before we take off our pen from this sub∣ject, we are to advertise; that indeed all Atoms, of their own nature, are inexcogitably swift; and so that our assertion of the superlative Velocity of Calorifick Atoms, doth appertain only to Atoms as they are in Con∣cretions, where their native Velocity and Agility is retarded and diminish∣ed by reciprocal cohaerence and revinction. And, therefore, seeing that all Atoms, agitated by their essential mobility, are in perpetual attempt to extricate themselves from Concretions, that so they may attain their pri∣mitive

freedom of motion; that none can so soon extricate and disengage themselves; as those that are spherical; because such cannot be impeded by the small hooks, or angles of others. Cum enim sphaera ••mnibus angulis careat, nihil hamati, aut retinentis offendet, facilè permeabit, & quoquover∣sus ad naturae penetrabit instituta, dividet instar cunei, & (quod nulli alteri figurae conting••t) contactu puncti labefaciens planum, statim amplo sinu sibi viam facit, cum nihil habet angulosi, quo possit detineri; quod ejus acti∣vitati necessarium suit: saith Magnenus (de Atom. lib. 2 cap. 3.) As also, that we speak the Dialect of Democritus, when we call these Calorifick Atoms, sometimes the Atoms of Heat, sometimes the Atoms of Fire, in∣discriminately; because Heat and Fire know none but a Gradual Diffe∣rence; at least, because Heat, in a General sense, implies all degrees, and Fire, in a Special, the highest degree of Heat; Aristotle himself (1 Mete∣or. 3) excellently defining Heat to be nothing else, but Caloris Hyperbole, the Excess of Heat.

* 1.7The Proprieties, or requisite Conditions of these Calorifick Atoms, be∣ing thus explored; our next Enquiry must be concerning the Manner of their Emancipation, or Expedition from the fetters of Concretions. We observe, therefore, that the Atoms of Fire, imprisoned in Concretions, have Two ways of attaining liberty. (1.) By Evocation, or the Assistance of other Atoms of the same nature; when such invading and insinuating themselves into the centrals of a body, do so dissociate its particles, as that dissolving the impediments or chains of the igneous Atoms therein con∣tained, they not only give them an opportunity, but in a manner sollicite them to extricate themselves. And by this way do the Atoms of Fire, in∣cluded in Wood, Wax, Turpentine, Oyle, and all other Inflammable Con∣cretions, extricate themselves, when they are set on fire; the sparks or flame, wherewith they are accensed, penetrating their contexture, and re∣moving the remoraes, which detained and impeded their internal Atoms of Fire, and exciting them to Emption: Which thereupon issue forth in swarms, and with the violence of their exsilition drive before them, in the apparence 〈◊〉〈◊〉 fuliginous▪ Exhalations or smoak, those dissimilar parti∣cles, which supprest and incarcerated them, during the integrity of the Concretion. (2.) By Motion, or Concussion; and that either Intestine, or External. First, Intestine; when, after many evolutions, the igneous Atoms, included in a Body, do of themselves dissociate and discuss those heterogeneous masses, wherein they were imprisoned: Which they chiefly effect, when after some of them have by spontaneous motion attained their freedom, if any thing be circumstant, which hath the power of repelling them, as 〈◊〉〈◊〉; for, in that case, returning again into the centrals of the body, from whence they came; and so associating with their fellows, pro∣mote the discussion of the remaining impediments, and concur to a gene∣ral Emption. From this Motion ariseth that Heat, or Fire, which is vul∣garly ascribed to the Antiperistasis, or Circumobsistence of Cold; as, for Example, when a heap of new Corn, or Mowe of green Hay, being kept too close, during the time of its fermentation, or sweating (as our Husband∣men 〈◊〉〈◊〉, sets it self on fire: the cold of the ambient aer, repelling the Atoms of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 which otherwise would expire insensibly) back again into it; and so causing them to unite to their fellows: and upon that consociation they suddainly engage in a general cumbustion, and dissolving all impedi∣ments, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 their liberty. Hence also proceed all those Heats, which are

observed in Fermentation, Putrifaction and all other intestine Commotions and Mutations of Bodies.

Hither likewise would we refer that so generally believed Phaenomenon, the Warmness of Fountains, Cellars, Mines, and all subterraneous Fosses, in Winter: but that we conceive it not only superfluous, but also of evil consequence in Physiology, to consign a Cause, where we have good rea∣son to doubt the verity of the Effect. For, if we strictly examine the ground of that common Assertion, we shall find it to consist only in a misinfor∣mation of our sense; i. e. though Springs, Wells, Caves, and all subterra∣neous places are really as Cold in Winter, as Summer; yet do we appre∣hend them to be warm: because we suppose that we bring the organs of the sense of Touching alike disposed in Winter and Summer, not considering that the same thing doth appear Cold to a hot, and warm to a Cold hand, nor observing, that oyle will be conglaciated, in Winter, in subterraneous Cells, which yet appear warm to those, who enter them, but not in Sum∣mer, when yet they appear Cold. Secondly, by Motion External, when a Sawe grows Hot, by continuall affriction against wood, or stone; or when fire is kindled by the long and hard affriction of 2 dry sticks, &c. This is manifest even from hence, that unless the bodies agitated, or rubbed a∣gainst each other, are such as contain igneous Atoms in them; no motion, however lasting and violent, can excite the least degree of Heat in them. For, Water agitated most continently and violently, never conceives the lest warmth: because it is wholly destitute of Calorifick Atoms. Lastly, as for the Heat, excited in a body, upon the Motion of its Whole, whether it be moved by it self, or some External movent; of this sort is that Heat, of which motion is commonly affirmed to be the sole Cause: as when an Animal grows hot with running, &c. and a Bullet acquires heat in flying, &c. And thus much concerning the manner of Emancipation of our Ca∣lorifick Atoms.

The next thing considerable, is their peculiar Seminarie or Conservatory;* 1.8 concerning which it may be observed, that the Atoms of Fire cannot, in regard of their extreme Exility, sphaerical Figure, and velocity of motion, be in any but an Unctuous and viscous matter, such whose other Atoms are more hamous, and reciprocally cohaerent, than to be dissociated easily by the intestine motions of the Calorifick Atoms; so that some greater force is required to the dissolution of that unctuousness and tenacity, whereby they mutually cohaere. And hereupon we may safely conclude, that an Unctuous substance is as it were the chief, nay the sole Matrix or Seminary of Fire or Heat; and that such Bodies only, as are capable of incalescence and inflammation, must contain somewhat of Fatness and unctuo••ity in them. Sometimes, we confess, it is observed, that Concretions, which have no such Unctuosity at all in them, as Water, are Hot, but yet we can∣not allow them to be properly said to wax Hot, but to be made Hot; be∣cause the principle of that their Heat is not Internal to them, but External or Ascititious. For instance; when Fire is put under a vessel of Water, the small bodies, or particles of Fire by degrees insinuate themselves tho∣rowe the pores of the vessel into the substance of the Water, and diffuse themselves throughout the same; though not so totally, at first, as not to leave, the major part of the particles of the Water untoucht: to which

other igneous Atoms successively admix themselves, as the water grows hotter and 〈◊〉〈◊〉. And evident it is, how small a time the Wa∣ter doth kee•• ••ts acquired heat, when once removed from the fire: because, th•• ••toms of Heat being meerly Adventitious to it, they spontaneousl•• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 it one after another, and leave it, as they found it, Cold only 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Alteration▪ they cause therein, that they diminish the Quantity the 〈◊〉〈◊〉▪ insomuch as successively as••ending into the aer, they carry along 〈◊〉〈◊〉 them the more tenuious and moveable particles of the Water, in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••pparence of vapours, which are nothing but Water Dif∣fused, 〈…〉〈…〉.

* 1.9Bu••, 〈…〉〈…〉 we affirm▪ that only Unctuous Bodies are Inflam∣mable▪ be g••••••rally true▪ whence comes it, that amongst Unctuous and 〈…〉〈…〉, some more easily take fire▪ than others? The 〈…〉〈…〉 is this▪ that the Atoms of Fire, incarcerated, in ••ome 〈◊〉〈◊〉▪ are not so deeply immerst in, nor so opprest and 〈…〉〈…〉 other Heterogenous particles of matter, as in o∣thers▪ 〈…〉〈…〉 the l••berty of Eruption much more easily. Thus 〈…〉〈…〉 kindled, than Green▪ because, in the green▪ the A••ueous 〈…〉〈…〉, surrounding and oppressing the Atoms of Fire there∣in containe•• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 first t•• be discussed and attenuated into vapours: but, in the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 time▪ b•• the mediation of the warmth in the ambient ae••▪ hath 〈…〉〈…〉 that luxuriant moysture, so that none but the 〈…〉〈…〉▪ o•• un••tuous part, wherein the Atoms of Fire have their 〈…〉〈…〉, remains to be discussed; which done, the Atoms of 〈…〉〈…〉 issue forth in swarms, and discover themselves in 〈…〉〈…〉 spirit of Wine is so much the sooner inflammable, by how much 〈◊〉〈◊〉 more pure and defaecated it is; because the igneous Atoms 〈…〉〈…〉 concluded, are delivered from the greater part of that 〈…〉〈…〉 humidity, wherewith they were formerly ••ur∣rounded 〈…〉〈…〉▪ On the contrary, a stone is not made Com∣bustib••e 〈◊〉〈◊〉 great ••••fficulty▪ because the substance of it is so com∣pact, as 〈…〉〈…〉 Unctuous humidity is long in discussion. We ••ay, a Stone 〈…〉〈…〉, or Arenaceous one, because such is destitute of all 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and so of all igneous particles: but, a Lime∣stone, 〈…〉〈…〉 capable of reduction to a Calx: or a Flint out of which by 〈◊〉〈◊〉 against steel, are excussed many small fragments, plen∣tifully 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Atoms of Fire.

* 1.10The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and Origine of Heat being thus fully explicated, ac∣cording 〈…〉〈…〉 most ver••imilous Principles of Democritus, Epicurus, and their 〈…〉〈…〉, that we progress to those Porifmata or 〈◊〉〈◊〉, which from thence result to our observation; and the 〈…〉〈…〉 some most considerable Problems, retaining to the same 〈◊〉〈◊〉, suc•• especially as have hitherto eluded the folu∣tive 〈…〉〈…〉 any other Hypothesis, but what we have here 〈◊〉〈◊〉.

〈…〉〈…〉, as the Atoms of Heat, which are always 〈…〉〈…〉 ••nctuous Matter, doe, upon the acquisition of 〈…〉〈…〉 ••orth with violence, and insinuating themselves

into Bodies, which they meet withal, and totally pervading them, dissociate their particles, and dissolve their Compage or Contexture. Hence is it manifest, that Rarefa••tion, or Dilatation is upon good reason accounted the proper Effect of Heat; since those parts of a body, which are Conjoyned, cannot be Disjoyned, but they must instantly possess a greater part of space (understand us in that strict sense, which we kept our selves to, in our Discourse of Rarefaction and Condensation) than before. Hence come•• it, that Water in boyling, seems so to be en∣creased, that what, when cold, filled scarce half the Caldron, in ebul∣lition cannot be contained in the whole, but swells over the brim thereof. Hence is it also, that all bodi•••• attenuated into Fume, are diffused into space an hundred, nay sometimes a thousand degrees larger than what they possessed before.

From this Consectary we arrive at some Problems,* 1.11 which stand directly in our way to another; and the First is that Vulgar one, Why the bottom of a Caldron, wherein Water, or any other Liquor is boyling, is but mo∣derately warm, at most not so hot, as to burn a mans hand applyed thereto?

The Cause of this culinary Wonder 〈◊〉〈◊〉 our Housewifes account it) seems to be this; when the Atoms of He••t, passing through the pores in the bottom of the Caldron into the water, do ascend through it, they elevate and carry along with them some particles thereof: and at the same time, other particles of Water, next adjacent to them, sink down, and instantly flowe into the places deserted by the former, which as∣cended, and insinuate themselves into the now laxarated pores in the bottom of the caldron. And though these are soon repelled upwards by other Atoms of Fire ascending thorowe the pores of the Vessel••, and carried upwards, as the former, yet are there other particles of Water, which sinking down, insinuate also into the open pores of the vessel, and by their confl••x or downward motion, much refract the violence of the subingredient Atoms of Fire: and so, by this ••••ciffi∣tude of Heat and Moysture, it comes to pass, that the Heat cannot be diffused throughout the bottom of the Caldron, the Humidity (which falls into the pores of it in the same proportion, as the Heat passeth thorow them) hindering the possession of all ••ts empty spaces by the invading Atoms of Fire. Nor doth it availe to the contra∣ry, that the Water which insinuates into the pores of the vessel, is made Hot, and so must calefie the same, in some proportion, as well as the Fire underneath it; because boyling Water poured ••nto 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Caldron, doth more than warm it: For, those particles of Water, which successively enter into the void spaces of the vessel••, are such as have not yet been penetrated per ••i••imas, by the A••••ms of Fire. For, all the cold, formerly entered into the water, ••s not at once ••iscussed, though the Water be in boyling; the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 arising ••nly ••rom the cohaerence of the calefied with the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 particles of the Water. And from the same Cause ••s ••t, that a sheet of the thin∣ne••t Venice Paper▪ if so 〈…〉〈…〉 hold Oyle infused into 〈…〉〈…〉 doth endure the 〈…〉〈…〉

Which some Cooks observing, use to fry Bacon upon a sheet of Paper only.

Secondly, Why doth Lime acquire an Heat and great Ebullition upon the affusion of Water?* 1.12 since, if our praecedent Assertion be true, the Heat in∣cluded in the Lime ought to be supprest so much the more, by how much the more Aqueous Humidity is admixt unto it.

This Difficulty is discussed by Answering; that the Aqueous Humi∣dity of the Lime-stone is indeed wholly evaporated by fire in its calcina∣tion; but yet the Pingous, or Unctuous for the most part remains, so that its Atoms of Fire lye still blended and incarcerated therein: and when those expede themselves, and by degrees expire into the ambient aer, if they be impeded and repelled by water affused, they recoyle upon the grumous masses of the Lime, and by the Circumobsistence of the Humidity, be∣come more congregated; and so upon the uniting of their forces make way for the Exsilition of the other Atoms of Fire, which otherwise could not have attained their liberty but slowly and by succession one after another. So that all the Atoms of Fire contained in the Lime, issuing forth together, they break through the water, calefie it, and make it bubble or boyle up; the calefied parts thereof being yet cohaerent to the uncale∣fied.

* 1.13The Third Problem is, Why the Heat of Lime, kindled by Water is more intense than that of any Flame whatever?

Answer, that forasmuch as Flame is nothing but Fire Rarefied, or as it were an Explication, or Diffusion of those Atoms of Fire, which were lately ambuscadoed in some Unctuous matter; and that all Fire is so much more intense or vehement, by how much more Dense it is, i. e. by how much the more congregated the Atoms which constitute it are: there∣fore is the Heat of Lime unslaking more vehement than that of any Flame, in regard the smallest grains of Lime contain in them many Atoms of Fire, which are not so diffused or disgregated in a moment, as those in Flame. So that a mans hand being waved to and fro in Flame, is invaded by incom∣rably fewer particles of Fire, than when it is dipt into, or waved through water at the unslaking of Lime thereby; the small granes of Lime adhaering unto, and insinuating into the pores of the hand, the many Atoms of fire invelloped in them, incontinently explicate themselves, violently penetrate and dilacerate the skin, and other sentient parts, and so produce that Pungent and Acute pain, which is felt in all Ambustions. From the same Reason also is it, that a glowing Coale burns more vehemently than Flame: and the Coals of more solid wood, as Juniper, Cedar, Guaiacum, Ebony, Oke, &c. more vehemently than those of Looser wood, such as Willow, Elder, Pine tree, &c. The like Disproportion is observable also in the Flames of divers Fewels; for in the flame of Juniper are contained far more Igneous Atoms, than in that of Willow: and consequently they burn so much more vehemently. True it is, that spirit of Wine enflamed, is so much more Ardent, by how much more refined and cohobated: yet this proceedeth from another Cause; viz. that the Atoms of Fire issuing from spirit of Wine of the first Extraction, have much of the Phletegme, or Aqueous moysture of the Wine intermixt among them; and so cannot be alleaged

as an Example that impugne's our Reason of the Different Heats of several Flames.

The Fourth, is that Vulgar Quaere,* 1.14 Why boyling Oyle doth scald more dan∣gerously, than boyling Water?

To which it is easily Answered; that Oyle, being of an Unctuous and Tenacious consistence, and so having its particles more firmly cohaerent, than Water, doth not permit the Atoms of Fire entered into it, so easily to transpire: so that being more agminous, or swarming in oyl, they must invade, and dilacerate the hand of a man, immersed into it, both more thickly and deeply, than those more Dispersed ones contained in boyling Water. Which is also the Reason, why Oyle made fervent is much lon∣ger in cooling, than Water: and may be extended to the Solution of the

Fifth Problem, viz. Wherefore do Metals, especially Gold,* 1.15 when melted, or made glowing hot, burn more violently, than the Fire that melteth, or heateth them; especially, since no Atoms of Fire can justly be affirmed to be lodged in them, as in their proper seminary, and so not to be educed from them, upon their Liquation, or Ignition.

For, the Heat, wherewith they procure Ambustion, being not domestick, but only Adventitious to them from the Fire, wherein they are melted, or made red hot; the reason why they burn so extreamly, must be this, that they are exceedingly Compact in substance, and so their particles being more tenacious or reciprocally cohaerent, then those of wood, oyle, or any other body whatever, they more firmly keep together the Atoms of fire immitted into them: insomuch that a man cannot touch them with his finger, but instantly it is in all points invaded with whole swarms of igneous Atoms, and most fiercely compunged and dilacerated. And, as for the Derasion of the skin from any part of an Animal, immersed into melted metal; this ariseth partly from the total dissolution of the tenour of the skin by the dense, and on every side compungent Atoms of Fire; partly from the Compression and Resistence of the parts of the Metal, now made Fluid, which are both so great, that upon the withdrawing of the member immersed into the metal, the part which is immediately prest upon by the particles thereof, is detained behind, and that's the skin. Hence also is it no longer a Problem, Why red h••t Iron sets any Combustible matter on Fire; for it is evident, that it cannot inflame by its own substance, but by the Atoms of Fire immitted into, and for a while reteined in its Pores. And this brings us to a

Second CONSECTARY, viz. That as the Degrees of Heat are various (Physicians, indeed, allow only 4,* 1.16 and Physiologists but double that number; the Former, in order to the more convenient reduction of their Art to certain and established principles; the Latter, meerly in conformity to the Dictates of Aristotle: but Neither upon absolute necessity, since it is reasonable for any man to augment their number even above number, at pleasure) So also must the Degrees of fire be various. For, since Fire, even according to Aristotle is only the Excess of Heat, or Heat encreased to that height, as to Burn, or Enflame a thing; if we begin at the gentle Meteor

called Ignis Fatuus (which lighting upon a mans hand, and a good while adhereing thereto, doth hardly warm it) or at the fire of the purest spirit of Wine enflamed (which also is very languid, for it is frequent among the Irish, for a Cure of their Endemious Fluxes of the belly, to swallow down small balls of Cotton, steept in spirit of wine, and set on fire, and that many times with good success.) We say, if we begin from either of these weak Fires, and run through all the intermediate ones, to that of melted Gold, which all men acknowledge to be the Highest: we shall soon be convinced, that the Degrees of Fire are so various, as to arise even to innu∣merability.

* 1.17Most true it is, in the General, that every Fire is so much the more intense, by how much more numerous, or agminous the Atoms of Fire are, that make it: yet, if we regard only the Effect, there must be allowed a convenient space of time, for the requisite motion of those Atoms, and a supply of fresh ones successively to invade and penetrate the thing to be burned or enflamed. For, since the Igneous Atoms, exsilient from their involucrum, or seminary, and invading the extrems of a body objected to them, are subject to easy Repercussion, or (rather) Resilition from it; there∣fore, to the Calefaction, Adustion, or Inflammation of a body, it is not sufficient, that the body be only moved along by, or over the Fire: but it must be held neer▪ or in it, so long as till the first invading Igneous Atoms, which otherwise would recoyle from it, be impelled on, and driven into the pores of the same, by streams of other Igneous Atoms contiguously, suc∣ceeding and pressing upon them. And, however the space of time, be almost in assignably short, in which the finger of a man, touching a glowing Coale, or melted metal, is burned; because, the Atoms of Fire are therein exceed∣ing Dense and Agminous, and so penetrate the skin, in all points: yet ne∣vertheless common observation assures, that in the General a certain space of time is necessary to the Effect of Calefaction or Ambustion; and that so much the Longer, by how much the Fewer, or more Disgregated the Igneous Atoms are, either in the Body Calefying, or the Aer contermi∣nous thereto. And this (as formerly) to the end, that the Motion of the Igneous Atoms first assaulting the object may be continued, and a supply of fresh ones, promoting and impelling the former, be afforded from the Focus, or Seminary. Hence is it, that a mans hand may be frequently Waved to and fro in Flame, without burning; because the Atoms of Fire, which invade it, are repercussed, and not by a continued aflux of others driven foreward into its pores, the motion of his hand preventing the Continuity of their Fluor: but, if his hand be held still in the flame, though but a very short time, it must be burned; because the first invading Atoms of Fire are impelled on by others, and those again by others, in a continent fluor, so that their Motion is continued, and a constant supply maintained. Hence comes it also, that no Metal can be molten only by a Flash, or transient touch of the Fire (for, we are not yet fully satisfied of the verity of that vulgar tradition, of the instantaneous melting of money in a purse, or of a sword blade in its sheath, by Lightning: and if we were, yet could we assign that prodigious Effect to some more probable Cause; viz. the impetuosity of the motion, and the ex∣ceeding Coarctation of those Atoms of Fire, of which that peculiar spe∣cies of Lightning doth consist) but it must be so long held in, or over the Fire, as until the Igneous Atoms have totally pervaded its contexture, and

dissociated all its particles: and therefore, so much the longer stay in the fire doth every Metal require to its Fusion; by how much the more Compact and Tenacious its particles are.

As the Degrees of Fire are various,* 1.18 as to the more and less of Vehe∣mency, respective to the more and less Density, or Congregation of the Igneous Atoms: So likewise is there a considerably variety among Flames, as to the more and less of Duration. Concerning the Causes, therefore of this Variety, in the General, we briefly observe; that Flame hath its Greater or Less Duration, respective to the

(1.) Various Materials, or Bodies inflammable. For, such Bodies, as have a greater Aversion to inflammation, being commixt with others, that are easily inflammable, make their flame less Durable; as Bay Salt, dis∣solved in spirit of Wine, shortens the duration of its flame, by almost a third part, as the Lord Bacon affirms upon exact experiment (Nat. Hist. cent. 4.) and contrariwise, such as approach neerer to an affinity with fire, i. e have much of Unctuousness, and plenty of igneous Atoms conceal∣ed therein, yield the most lasting Flames; as Oyle and Spirit of Wine commixt in due proportions; and spirit of Salt, to a tenth part, commixt with Oyle Olive, makes it burn twice as long in a Lamp, as Oyle a∣lone, from whence some Chymists have promised to make Eternal Lamps with an Oyle extracted from common Salt, and the stone Ami∣••nthus.

(2.) The more or less easie Attraction of its Pabulum, or Nourishment. For, Lamps, in which the Flame draweth the oyle from a greater distance, always burn much longer, than Candles, or Tapers, where the circumference of the fewel is but small; and the broader the surface of the Oyle, or Wax, wherein the Wiek is immersed, so much the longer doth the flame thereof endure; not only in regard of the greater Quantity of Nourishment, but of its slower Calefaction, and so of its longer Resistence to the absum∣ptive faculty of the flame. Since it is observed, that the Coolness of the Nourishment, doth make it more slowly consumable: as in Candles float∣ing in water. This was experimented in that service of our quondam Eng∣lish Court, called All night; which was a large Cake of Wax, with the Wiek, set in the middest: so that the flame, being fed with nourishment less heated before hand, as coming far off, must of necessity last much lon∣ger, than any Wax Taper of a small circumference.

(3) Various Conditions of the same Materials. For, Old and Hard Candles, whether of Wax, or Tallowe, maintain flame much longer than New, or soft. Which good Houswives knowing, use no Candles un∣der a year old, and such as have, for greater induration, been laid a good while in Bran, or Flower. And, from the same reason is it, that Wax, as being more firm and hard, admixt to Tallowe and made up into Candles, causeth them to be more lasting, then if they were praepared of Tallowe alone.

(4.) Different Conditions, and Tempers of the ambient Aer. For, the Quiet and Closeness of the Aer, wherein a Taper burneth, much con∣duceth to the prolongation of its flame: and contrariwise, the Agitation

thereof, by winds, or fanning, conduceth as much to the shortning of it: insomuch as the motion of flame makes it more greedily attract, and more speedily devour its sustenance. Thus a Candle lasteth much longer in a Lanthorne, than at large in a spacious roome. Which also might be as∣signed as one Cause of the long Duration of those subterranean Lamps, such as have been found (if credit be due to the tradition of Bapt. Porta, (lib. 12. Magiae natural. cap. ultim.) Hermolaus Barbarus (in lib. 5. Dio cap. 11.) and Cedrenus Histor. Compend.) All which most confidently avouch it, upon authentique testimonies.) in the Urns of many Noble Ro∣mans, many hundreds of years after their Funerals. Here should our Reader bid us stand, and deliver him our positive judgement, upon this stu∣pendious Rarity, which hath been uged by some Laureat Antiquaries, as a cheif Argument of the transcendency of the Ancients Knowledge as in all Arts, so in the admirable secrets of Pyrotechny, above that of Later Ages; as we durst not be so uncharitable, to quaestion the Veracity of ei∣ther the Inventors, or Reporters of it: so should we not be so uncivil, as not to releive his Curiosity, at least with a short story, that may light Him to∣wards farther satisfaction. A certain Chymist there was, not many years since, who having decocted Litharge of Gold, Tartar, Cinnaber, and Calx vive, in spirit of Vinegre, until the Vinegre was wholly evaporated; close∣ly covering and luting up the earthen vessel, wherein the Decoction was made, buried it deeply in a dry Earth, for 7 moneths together (in order to more speedy maturation, expected from the Antiperistasis of Cold) came at length to observe what became of his Composition: and opening the vessel, observed a certain bright Flame to issue from thence, and that so vehement, as it fired the hair of his eyebrowes and head. Now, having furnished our Reader with this faithful Narrative; we leave it to his owne determination: Whether it be not more probable, that those Coruscati∣ons, or Flashes of Light, perceived to issue from Vials of Earth, found in the demolisht sepulchres of the Great Olybius, and some eminent Romans, at the instant of their breaking up by the spade, or pickaxe; did proceed rather from some such Chymical Mixture, as this of our Chymist (who ac∣quired Light by the hazard of Blindness) which is of that nature as to be in a moment kindled, and yield a shortlived flame, upon the intromission of Aer into the vessel, wherein it is contained; than from any Fewel, that is so slowly Absumable by Fire, as to maintain a constant Flame, for many hundred years together, without extinction, and that in so small a vial, as the Fume must needs recoyle and soon suffocate the Flame. But we return from our Digression, and directly pursue our embost Argument. It much importeth the greater and less Continuance of Flame, whether the Aer be Warm, or Cold, Dry or Mo••st. For Cold Aer irritateth flame, by Circumobsistence, and causeth it burn more fiercely, and so less durably; as is manifest from hence, that Fire scorcheth in frosty wea∣ther: but Warme Aer, by making flame more calm and gentle, and so more sparing of its nourishment, much helpeth the Continuance of it. If Moist, because it impedeth the motion of the igneous Atoms, and so in some degree quencheth flame, at least, makes it burn more dimly and dul∣ly; it must of necessity advance the Duration of flame: and contrariwise, Drie Aer, meerly as drie, produceth Contrary Effect, though not in the same proportion; nay so little, that some Naturalists have concluded the Driness of Aer to be only indifferent, as to the Duration of Flame.

And now we are arrived at our Third and Last CONSECTARY;* 1.19 That the immediate and genuine Effect of Heat, is Disgregation▪ or Sepa∣ration: and that it is only by Accident that Heat doth Congregate Ho∣mogeneous natures. To argue by the most familiar way of Instance; when Heat hath dissolved a piece of Ice, consisting of water, earth, and perhaps of gravel and many small Festucous bodies commixt; the Earth, Sand and other Terrene parts sink downe and convene together at the bot∣tom, the water returns to its native fluidity, and possesseth the middle re∣gion of the Continent, and the strawes swim on the surface of the water: not that it is essential to the Heat so to dispose them; but essential to them, being dissociated and so at liberty, each to take it proper place, ac∣cording to the several degrees of their Gravity. Thus also, when a Mass of various Metals is melted by Fire, each metal, indeed, takes it pro∣per region in the Crucible, or fusory vessel: but yet the Congregation of the Homogeneous particles of each particular Metal, is not immedi∣ately caused, but only occasioned, i. e. Accidentally brought to pass by the Disgregation or praecedent separation of the particles of the whole Heterogeneous Concretion, by heat. Again, the Energy of every Cause in Nature ceaseth, upon the production of its perfect Effect; but the Effect of Heat ceaseth not, when the Homogenieties of the mass of Ice, or Metal, are Congregated, but continues the same after, as before, i. e. to Dissolve the compage of the Metal, or Ice, and Dissociate all the particles thereof: for, so long as the Heat is continued, so long do the Ice and Metal remain Dissolved and Fluid. This considered, what shall we say to Aristotle, who makes it the Essential Attribute of Heat, Con∣gregare Homogenea, to Congregate Homogeneous Bodies. Truly, rather then openly convict so great a Votary to truth of so palpable an Error; we should gladly become his Compurgator, and palliate his mistake with an indulgent comment; that in his Definition of Heat, to be a Quality genuinely Congregative of Homogeneous na∣tures, He had his eye, not upon the General Effect of Heat (which He could not but observe, to Disgregate the particles of all things, aswel Homogeneous, as Heterogeneous.) but upon some special Effect of it upon some particular Concretions, such as are Compounded of parts of Divers natures, as Wood and all Combustible bodies Concerning which, indeed, His Assertion is thus far justifiable, that the whole Bo∣die is so dissolved by fire, as that the Dissimilar parts of it are perfect∣ly sequestred each from other, and every one attains it proper place; the Aereal part ascending and associating with the Aer, the Aqueous evaporating, the Igneous discovering themselves in Flame, and the earthy remaining behind, in the forme of Ashes. But alas! this favour∣able Conjecture cannot excuse, nor gild over his Incogitancy; for, the Congregation of the Homogenous particles of a Body, dissolved by Fire, in the place most convenient to their particular Nature, ariseth immediately from their own Tendency thither, or (that we may speak more like our selves, i. e. the Disciples of Epicurus) from their respective proportions of Gravity, the more Heavy extruding and so impelling up∣ward the less heavy: and only Accidentally from Heat, or as it hath dis∣solved the caement, and so the Continuity of the Concretion, wherein they were confusedly and promiscuously blended together. So that Truth will not dispense with our Connivence at so dangerous a Lapse, though in one of Her choicest Favorites; chiefly, because it hath already deluded

so many of Her seekers, under the glorious title of a Fundamental Axiome: but strictly enjoynes Us, to Conclude; that Heat, per se, or of its own nature, is alwayes a Disgregative Quality; and that it is of of meer Accident, that upon the sequestration of Heterogeneities, Ho∣mogeneous Natures are associated, rather than, è contra, that it is of meer Accident, that while Heat Congregates Homogeneous, it should Dis∣gregate Heterogeneous Natures, as Aristotle most inconsiderately affirmed and taught.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Art. 1. The Connecti∣on of this to the immedi∣ately prece∣dent Chapter.
• * 1.2

  Art. 2. Why the Au∣thor deduceth the 4 First Qualities, not from the 4 vul∣gar Elements; but from the. 3 Proprieties of Atoms.
• * 1.3

  Art. 3. The Nature of Heat is to be conceived from its Gene∣ral Effect; viz. the Penetration, Discussion, and Dissolution of Bodies con∣crete.
• * 1.4

  Art. 4. Heat defined as no Immate∣rial, but a 〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.5

  〈1 paragraph〉〈1 paragraph〉
• * 1.6

  〈1 paragraph〉〈1 paragraph〉
• * 1.7

  Art. 7. That the Atoms of Heat are capable of Expedition or deliverance from Concre∣tions. Two wayes; viz. by Ev••cation and Motion.
• * 1.8

  Art. 8. An Vn••ra••us matter, the chief Seminary of the Atoms of Heat: and why.
• * 1.9

  A••••. ••. Among ••nctu¦ou•• Concre••••∣ons. Wh•• some ar•• more ••asi∣ly inflammabl•• than others▪
• * 1.10

  〈1 paragraph〉〈1 paragraph〉
• * 1.11

  Art. 11. PROBLEM 1. Why the ••ot∣to•• of a Cal∣d••••n, where∣in Water is boyling, may be touched by the hand of a man▪ ••ithout burning 〈…〉〈…〉.
• * 1.12

  Art. 12. PROBLEM 2. Why Lime be∣comes ardent upon the affu∣sion of Water. ••ol.
• * 1.13

  Art. 13. PROBLEM 3. Why the Heat of Lime burn∣ing is more ve∣hement, than the Heat of any Flame whatever. Sol.
• * 1.14

  Art. 14. PROBLEM 4▪ Why boyling Oyle scalds more vehe∣mently, then boyling Water▪ Sol.
• * 1.15

  Art. 15. PROBLEM 5▪ Why Metals, melted or made red hot, burn more violent than the Fire, that melteth or heateth them. Sol.
• * 1.16

  Art. 16. CONSECTA∣RY 2. That, as the degrees of Heat, so those of fire are in∣numerably v••∣rious.
• * 1.17

  Art. 17. That to the Calefaction, Combustion, or Inflamma∣tion of a body by fire▪ is re∣quired a cer∣tain space of time; and that the space is greater or less, according to the paucity, or abundance of the igneous Atoms inva∣ding the body obiected; and more or less of aptitude in the contexture thereof to ad∣mit them.
• * 1.18

  Art. 18. Flame more or less Durable, for various re∣spects.
• * 1.19

  Art. 19. CONSECTA∣RY 3. That the im∣mediate and genuine Effect of Heat, is the Disgregation of all bodies, as well Homoge∣neous, as Hete∣rogenous: and that the Con∣gregation of Homogeneous Natures, is on∣ly an Acciden∣tal ••ff••ct of H••a••; contrary to Aristotle.