Years, drawing Forth, and Selecting the true Root, and Marrow of Nature (by a series of Experiences) from its most inward Recesses, and secret Habitations.
II. The which I am mo∣ved and compelled to from the singular Good-will, en∣tire Affections, and Sincere Love, which as well as in times past, I now at present bear unto you: And there∣fore shall faithfully (tho' briefly) declare the Secrets of this Art to you; plainly and openly, not Darkly and AEnigmatically, as if it was done under a Shadow or Vail.
III. Such indeed is your Life (your Works witnes∣sing the same) that you are as a healing Balm, a Refuge of Defence, and Shelter to the Church of God, a Pil∣lar of his Holy Temple, for which Reasons, I am ob∣liged to reveal these hidden Mysteries, and make known to you the abscondite Paths of Nature, not to rejoyce your outward Man only, by adding Health and long Life, heaping up Treasures, and external Honours and Applause in the World, but to excite in you the highest Devotion to God Almighty, that you might become good to all Men, profitable to the Church, a Father to the Fatherless, and a San∣ctuary to the Needy and Distressed.
IV. And in these things, I am confident of you, in whom is found such a Por∣tion and Treasure of Vertue, Prudence, Piety, and true Wisdom, but most chiefly, for that I know you to be such a one, who has God always before your Eyes.
V. And therefore I speak truly and fervently, and I will declare the Truth to you, with all faithfulness according to the reality of my Soul; I shall Elucidate the undoubted Verity, and declare such things, as with much Labour, Care, and Diligence I have sought out, and obtained the know∣ledge of; which I have seen with my Eyes, and have handled with my Hands,