A description of new philosophical furnaces, or A new art of distilling, divided into five parts. Whereunto is added a description of the tincture of gold, or the true aurum potabile; also, the first part of the mineral work. Set forth and published for the sakes of them that are studious of the truth. / By John Rudolph Glauber. Set forth in English, by J.F. D.M.

THE FIFT PART OF PHILOSOPHICAL FURNACES. (Book 5)

Of the preparation of the Furnace.

AS concerning this, of which though I made no mention in the Preface, for it was not my resolution to mention it in the last part, because I was purposed only to treat of the instruments, as wel earthen as those of glass, and also of the other necessary things belonging to those four parts premised; yet I am willing now in this part, (which I have judged to be the most convenient place for it, for which I did before design another) to discover the wonderful nature thereof, as far as I may for the studious Artists sake. And although I know that more in this part then in all my other writings, especially the ignorant and un∣skilful, will be offended; yet I will not therefore pass it by, perswading my self that by this means I shall do a work that will be most acceptable to the searchers of Art, and Nature. For I do devoutly affirm, that this is the choicest of all my se∣crets

that I confide in, in which I have already seen wonder∣ful things, hoping that the divine benediction will some time or other be obtained upon the practice thereof. And as for the structure thereof, much cannot be said thereof, because it is not built as other furnaces are, but it is every where found extructed by Nature, being ordained for no other works then those of Nature, viz. for the making of any men∣struum that shall dissolve gold, silver, and all other metals, and minerals without any noise, as also pretious, and common stones, and also glasses: the original of which is the original of the Menstruum. Now what, and what manner of furnace that is that produceth this royal menstruum (coming from the menstruum it selfe) and that easily without any la∣bour, you may easily conjecture, that it is not any common one, by the help whereof other things are distilled, that can yeeld such a menstruum that is not corrosive: which certainly is not any common menstruum, because there is but this one menstruum that I know, which doth not partake of any cor∣rosive quality, that doth more then any or all other corro∣sive waters whatsoever. For all corrosives whatsoever they are, as aqua fortis, aqua regia, spirit of salt, vitrioll, al∣lome, and nitre cannot together, and at once dissolve the close union of gold, and silver, and other most hard sub∣jects, that cannot be dissolved in waters, though never so cau∣stick.

This indeed is wonderful, and stupendous, that a thing every where found most vile and base should doe so great a miracle, I know not what moved me to write of it, know∣ing that I shall in this part offend not onely the wise by wri∣ting so openly, but also the ignorant detractors, and slan∣derers that will accuse mee of falsity. And truly these con∣siderations might justly have deterred me but that I knew I might doe a good work, recalling many from their errors. For many being perswaded that there is no other dissolving men∣struum, besides the aforesaid corrosive spirits; but those are Chymists that are ignorant of nature; yet the Philosophers with one consent say that those corrosive destructive spirits

make a fruitless solution of metals. For experience testifies that the solutions made by the help of aqua fortis, and regia, and other spirits, colour the hands, being that which a true Philosophical solution doth not, and furthermore testifies that those, viz. which colour the hands, are not to be reck∣oned among the true Philosophical solutions, but to be con∣temned as Malignant. Wherefore I was willing to write these things to instruct those that erre. Let no man therefore perswade himself that a menstruum is so vile, and contempti∣ble is of less efficacy then those corrosive spirits. I my self did once scarse beleeve that so great vertues could be in so most vile a menstruum, untill I had experience of the truth in good earnest. And the same thing happens here, which happens e∣very where: viz. great and costly things are sought after, but smal and vile things are neglected, contrary to the course of nature, doing all her works simply: let no man therefore be offen∣ded at the vileness of any thing. The Jews also were offen∣ded at the poverty of Christ, who was all things in all. These, although they did see miracles, which no man but the Messias could doe, yet did not beleeve, being obstinate by reason of the simplicity of his form, which if he had not assumed, be∣ing humane, he could not have been our Mediator before God. For we were wholly separate from God by that fall of Adam, so as that being hardened in sins we became the slaves of death, and hell, and so should remain for ever by reason of the loosing of the Holy Spirit, which we had. Now that divine dew, or celestial Manna that doth from heaven wa∣ter our dry hearts refreshing us by his saving Word, and bloud shed for us, that holy Spirit, which otherwise we could never have received, was again communicated to us. Hence therefore we may see, how we were reconciled by a dis∣esteemed man, and that necessarily. And as formerly the Pharisees and Priests were offended at the poverty of Christ being the son of a Carpenter, not acknowledging him for the Messiah; so also that universal Menstruum (openly named) no man doth esteem, as being base, and found in every dung∣hill. But doe not thou account it as a fault that I have here

alleadged the poverty, and humiliation of Christ: for the discourse doth not tend to his disparagement, but to his great honour; because he alone amongst the sonnes of men, al∣though most contemptible could deliver mankinde from the power of the devil; as that universall Mercury the basest of all subjects, being overcome by death, doth rise again gloriously for the metallick genus.

Now here may and that not without cause be brought in some similitudes demonstrating our discourse; and first of all how two contraries or extreams can without a medium be joined together: as for example, the subtile spirit of wine, as also of urine, cannot be reunited to its proper salt, viz. se∣paration, and purification, being once made, although they are of one and the same original, without a medium, that is, water, which is in stead of a mediator in this reunition. So also before the fall, God was with Adam, afterwards having transgressed the command of God, he was thereby deprived of that Divine society, and made subject to divers kindes of miseries, to an eternal, and spiritual death, until the incar∣nation of Christ the Mediator, who unless he had partaked of both natures, could never have reconciled and reunited us; as that most subtile spirit of wine or urine can never a∣gain be reunited to its proper fixed salt, without water which partakes of both natures. And if it were lawfull I could, and that easily compare the Philosophical work with the incarnation and nativity of Christ, with his life and death; as also his resurrection; but this is not my worke at this time, for it sufficeth to make mention of it at this time. I wish it were lawful to compare terrestrial with celestial mira∣cles; without doubt the unbeleeving Thomas would have opened his eys. But now it is not lawful; and although Moses, Daniel, Josephus••, and others that were skilled in naturall Philosophy, and Magick, by the help whereof as well cele∣stial as terrestrial miracles are known, made mention of this thing in their writings, yet it is taken notice of by very few readers. Finally, if we might, and time would admit, we could demonstrate, that God doth not alwayes esteeme of

great things, but rather threaten ruine to them; for he is no re∣spector of persons, or creatures, of which there are extant ma∣ny examples. Now the world judgeth all things amiss, e∣steeming, and respecting only glorious things; but our care should not be about them; for alwayes great things are done even by the smallest, and most contemptible.

I could here adde more things concerning the originall of the universal menstruum, which is so contemptible, which doth by its wonderful powers and vertues dissolve all metals, minerals and stones radically without any noise, unites and fixeth them; the solution whereof doth not colour the hand; the conjunction is inseparable, and the fixation incombu∣stible, I say I could adde more things concerning it, but that divers inconveniences, which by this means I might in∣cur, as also the envy and hatred of others do deter me. For although any one doth think to discover the possibility of Art, and Nature; yet few would be content therewith, being very desirous of all manner of revelation; and if we should not gratifie them, we should forthwith incur their hatred and envy, who would without doubt judge otherwise of the matter, if they had but any experience of our labors. Be thou therefore (curteous reader) contented with this discourse, that shews thee the possibility of Art and Nature; and diligently seek after it in the fear of God, and without doubt thy labour shall not be in vain.

Of the Building of the Furnaces.

HOw those furnaces of the first and second part are to be built and made of potters clay, and stones; I need not say much, because there be many books extant treating of this matter sufficiently, yet this caution is to be observed in the building of the furnaces, viz. that those furnaces in which a very strong fire is not kindled, need not so strong wals, as those in which we distill, sublime, and melt, with a most strong fire. And for what belongs to subliming and distilling furnaces; you may erect them of those common

bricks which are made of the best clay, and well burnt, com∣passing them about with very strong wals, that they may the longer retain the heat: or else you will continually have something to doe in mending them, and closing their chinks, which hinder the regiment of fire. Wherefore they must be compassed about with iron hoops, that they may be durable and not gape. Now what concerns the melting furnaces, the aforesaid bricks are not of use in the building of them, because they not being durable melt in the fire, wherefore you must make other bricks of a very good earth that is fixed in the fire, such as is that of crucibles, &c. of which afterwards, which are to be made in a brazen or wooden mould, and to be burnt, and it matters not whether they be round or square, a regard being had of the furnace, that six or eight of them make one course, or row. But you need not build the whole furnace of those stones, for it is sufficient, if the place only where the coals still lye, be made of them, and the other part of the furnace be made of common bricks.

A Lute for the erecting of Furnaces.

LUte may be made divers wayes for this businesse; for men prepare their lute several wayes as they please. Some mix with sifted potters earth, the beaten hairs of cows, oxen, harts, or the chaffe of barley, tow, flocks, horse-dung, and the like, that hold together the clay, and prevent chops, to which they adde sometimes sifted sand, if the clay be too fat, beating the mixture together with water, and bringing it to a just consistency. And this is the best mixture, that is not subject to cleaving, yet weak, because in length of time the hair and chaffe are burnt, wherefore the furnace becomes thin and weak. Many leave out combustible things, and mix potters clay, and sand together, and temper them with brine, for the making of their furnaces. And this is the best mixture, because it is not combustible as the other is, neither is it subject to cracking by reason of the salt: and for this pur∣pose the brine of fish and salt flesh doth serve, and is very good, because the bloud helps the joining of them together: but

if the caput mortuum of vitriol or aqua fortis, being mollified, be mixed with potters clay and sand, you goe a better way to work: for this lute is not at all subject to cracking, but fixed in the fire and permanent. With this lute are retorts, and goards very well luted, and coated, also the joints of retorts, and receivers closed: this being mollified with a wet cloth applyed to it may again be separated, and taken off, as that also with which salt is mixed: but the other lutes that want salt will not be separated, by reason whereof glasses oftentimes are broken. Wherefore in defect of the caput mortuum of Vitriol, temper the clay and sand with brine. But many mixe the filings of iron, powdered glass, flints, &c. but you need not them for the building of the furnaces, but only for the coating of certaine glasses used for separa∣tion, and distillation, because the filings of iron being helped with salt binds and joins together most strongly.

Of the closing of the joints, hindring the evapora∣tion of subtile spirits.

THe aforesaid lute is sufficient for the closing of the joints of the first furnace where air is not kept from the spirits, but not of the vessels of the second furnace, where most sub∣tile spirits are distilled, which it cannot retain, penetrating the same with the loss of the better part: wherefore you must make choice of another; unless upon the other being well dryed besmeared over with a pencil, a mixture made of quick lime most subtilly powdered, and Linseed oil, which the po∣rous clay attracting to it is fortified, so as to be able to re∣tain those most subtile spirits: but this lute can hardly be separated again; because refusing water it cannot be mollified, wherefore the clay is to be tempered only with the white of egges, and to be applyed with linen clouts: but you must prevent the burning of the linen by reason of the extream heat of the neck of the receiver, by putting between an iron or strong glass neck, viz. betwixt the receiver and the retort. The joints also may be closed with oxe bladders wet in the

white of egges, also with starch tempered with water, if it be sometimes applyed, being smeared on paper. For by this means those most subtile spirits are easily retained, but not corrosive, for which use the caput mortuum of aqua fortis is more convenient, which after it is dryed must be smee∣red over with a mixture made of linseed oyle, and quick lime.

And divers kinds of these lutes are had being destined to divers uses.

Another lute for broken glasses.

IT happens sometimes that glass vessels, as receivers, and retorts have some cracks, but otherwise are whole and sound; which are greater in those glasses that doe again suf∣fer the heat of the fire, wherefore at last the glasses▪ are bro∣ken, which if you will prevent, make a liniment or thin lute of linseed oyl, quick lime, and red lead; which being smeered over a linen cloth apply to the crack, upon which being dryed apply another: but if the crack be very great, you may apply 3 or 4 linen cloths, for the greater safety sake: as you may apply the whites of egges beaten toge∣ther, upon the cracks with linen and cast upon it quick lime sifted very fine, and press it down hard with your hand: which being done, you may apply over them more linen clouts wet in the whites of egges, and cast upon them quick lime again: which when the lute is well dryed, retaines the spirits, but sooner subject to the corrosion of corrosive spirits then the former.

Note well that quick lime is not to be mixed with the white of eggs, and so used upon linen clouts, as the manner of some is; because the whites of egges acquire a hardness from the lime before they be united, and therefore cannot stick, but linen clouts wet first therewith before the quick lime be cast upon them, so that the lime doth not immediately touch the glass, being applyed betwixt two linen clothes.

How those subtile spirits when they are made may be kept that they evaporate not.

THose glasses in which those spirits are kept are for the most part stopt with cork, or wax, upon which after∣ward bladders are bound: which stopping is convenient for some spirits, that doe not prey upon cork or wax: For all corrosive spirits, as of vitriol, allome, common salt, nitre, &c. corrode cork; and lixivial spirits, as that of hartshorn, tartar, salt armoniack, urine, wine, &c. melt wax, and penetrate it.

And although other stopples might be made, which might retain both sorts of spirits, yet it would be tedious and la∣borious to open those so often, and to stop them againe. Wherefore I have found out a fit kind of glasses, viz. of such, whose mouths have distinctions, and are fit to receive their co∣vers; as it appears by the delineation. A. signifies the co∣ver: B. the glass containing the spirit. C. a drawer by the help whereof the spirits are taken out of the glass, when there is occasion, into the distinction in the brim of the mouth; viz. of the glass that contains the spirit, is put quicksilver, and upon this is put a cover; this being done the Mercury clo∣seth the joints of both glasses running in the brim, so that no∣thing at all can evaporate: for the spirits doe not penetrate the Mercury, unless they be very corrosive (a thing to be no∣ted) which then in process of time turn the Mercury into water, but very seldome; and then the Mercury is to be re∣newed. But we need not give so much honour to corrosive spirits, as not to be compared to those volatiles, which be∣ing abstracted from corrosives doe not prey upon Mercury; and much less then these, doe lixivial spirits corrode Mercu∣ry: and for the sake of these were these glasses invented, by the help whereof most subtile spirits are without any loss of their vertues, if you please, a very long time preserved and kept. And because when there is occasion the spirits cannot be poured forth by reason of the Mercury in the brim, you

must get a drawer like to that, by the help whereof wine is taken out of the vessell, but lesser, having a belly with a little mouth made ve∣ry accurately. This being let downe you may take up as much as you please, as is need∣ful; the upper orifice whereof being stopped with the finger no∣thing drops out; being put into a lesser glass is thence poured forth for your use. Then you must again cover the remainder of the spirit that is in the glass, and as oft as is needful take out with that drawer as much as is usefull. And this is the best way by which most subtile spirits are re∣tained; which also are very well retained in those glasses, whose steeples are of glasse smoothed with grind∣ing. But this is a more costly way of keeping in spirits, and it is done after this man∣ner.

[illustration]

How glasse stopples are to be smoothed with grinding for the retaining of spirits in their glass vessels.

FIrst of all order the matter so that you have glass bottles of several sorts, some greater, some lesser, with strong necks, and mouths, with their glass stopples, which being smoothed by grinding shut the orifice of the bottle very close: Now they are smoothed thus. Put the stopples in the turn, being set or fastned in some wood, bring it into a round shape, then being moistned with Smiris, and water mixed together, let it be put to the mouth of the bottle, so as to be turned round in the mouth of the bottle, which you must often take away from the stopples being fastened to the turn, for the of∣tener moistening of it, which is with that mixture of prepa∣red Smiris and water, with the help of a pencil, or feather; and that so often and so long, untill the stopple stop the mouth of the bottle most closely: which being done, you wipe off the Smiris with a lint from the stopples and mouth of the the bottle, then smeer over the stopple with a liniment made of some fine washed earth, and water, or oyl, and again turn it round in the mouth of the bottle, and often smear it over with this fresh mixture, untill the stopple be most exactly smoothed, which afterward is to be tyed to its proper bot∣tle; the same also is to be understood concerning the rest, that one may not be taken for an other, &c. And that you may not need to take away so much from the stop∣ples, and bottles, get some copper moulds made for the stopples, which stopples must be taken whilest they bee yet warm, soft, and new drawn from the furnace, that they may be made of a just roundness, as also other copper moulds. Which must bee put into the mouths of the bottles, whilest they be yet hot and soft, for the bet∣ter making of them round, whereby afterwards the stop∣ple may more easily, and quickly become fit to stop the mouths

of the bottles very close, (as for example: A. is the stopple, B. the glass or bottle) if thou knowest how to order them rightly, they will quickly and easily fit one the other.

[illustration]

In defect of a turn, proceed after the following manner, which is slow, yet safe, because in a turn the glasses oftentimes waxing hot are broken by reason of the over great hast; and it is thus, make an iron or wooden receptacle fit to receive the glass bottle, which being covered about with linen, and put in, join both parts of the receptacle warily and softly, with the help of a screw, that the bottle be not broken, and because that instrument, or receptacle of the bottle being fastened to a form with the help of a screw, cannot be mo∣ved. Afterwards cause that another wooden instrument be made for the stopple (as for example, A. the stopple with

its receptacle B. the bottle with its receptacle) that may be separated in the middle, and be again reunited with a screw after the putting in of the stopple, which being smeered o∣ver with the aforesaid mixture of smiris and water, take an instrument with both hands, and put the stopple round about the neck of the bottle, and grind it round upon the other, as Wine Coopers are used to doe in smoothing the taps; and that so long untill the stopple be fit for the bottle; then reiterate the same labour with the earth tripolis, untill it bee compleated; and it will stop as well as a stopple made by the help of a turn.

[illustration]

After this manner also you must work those greater glass receivers of the first furnace, that without luting they

may be closed. Stopples also of vials for fixation may be wrought after this manner, which instead of luting may be put into the mouths of the vials, upon which are put caps of lead; by which means in case of necessity they may be lifted up, viz. in case the spirits by too strong a fire be stirred up and rarified, by reason of the danger the glasses are in to be broken, and may again fall down into the mouths of the bot∣tles being pressed down with the leaden caps, and so stop close again. And this way of stopping is better then that which is done with cork, wax, sulphur, and other things: because in case the regiment of fire be well governed, and by consequence an errour is committed, you may preserve your glasses by lifting up of the stopples, viz. when

[illustration]

the spirits are too much stirred up. And although this be a better way of stopping then the other common way; yet that which follows is better then this, whereby the spirits are easi∣ly retained, the glasses being preserved, and without all danger of being bro∣ken. And it is thus, viz. get a glass pipe to be made crooked according to the figure set down, into the belly where∣of is quicksilver to be put from halfe an ounce to an ounce, or thereabouts, and let this pipe which hath a belly be put into the viall containing the matter to be fixed (as for example, A. the pipe with a belly, B. is the viall, and againe A signifies the aforesaid leaden cap with the viall B) the joints whereof afterwards are to be covered over with lute, and the viall will never be in danger of being broken.

These foresaid ways of stopping are the best, by which the breakings of glasses are prevented, viz. whilest

men are in an errour about the fixing of spirits of salts, minerals, and metals, which although they are fixed with great costs and labours, yet doe not satisfie what is promi∣sed and expected, because those kinds of fixations are violent and forced, and by consequence contrary to nature: but in the profitable fixation of spirits, not so, where we must follow Nature, and not commit our selves to fortune in our labours. For onely fooles are wont to breake their glasses in their supposed tincture; but Philosophers not so; for every violent thing is an enemy to Nature; and all the operations of Nature are spontaneous. They erre there∣fore, and never shall come unto their desired end, who attempt violent fixations. I cannot bee perswaded that bodies dead, or halfe dead can be so mixed together as to multiply: but I could easily beleeve that the con∣junction of male and female of one and the same species, sound and nourished with sound and wholesome meats to be naturall, and to make a spontaneous propagation, and multiplication of their species; viz. of those that en∣dure in a good, and adverse fortune, in life, and death; but the conjunction of dead things to be dead, and barren. Doe but consider how many and various instruments both gold, silver, copper, iron, tin, and lead; as also ear∣then, glass, stone and other vessels of other materials have been already invented, and found out for the fixing of Mer∣cury alone with gold and silver, but in vain, because they have no mutuall affinity. For although Mercury adheres to metals, or metals to it, yet that is not by, reason of any affinity for multiplication, or perfection sake: for it appeares by experience that Mercury flies away in the fire, and leaves the gold, silver, and other metals. Where it is clear that they have no mutuall affinity requisite for the multiplication of metals, nor is it ever possible: For they that have a mutuall affinity embrace one the other and abide together for ever, although volatile, yet never leave one the other like gold and Mercury, when they are uni∣ted together with the strongest bond, so that they can

never be separated although with the strongest fire. Where∣fore a great care is to be had in the fixation of things join∣ed together; which if they have a mutuall affinity, will embrace and retain one the other, without the help of any curious glasses with long necks. Of which things if thou art ignorant, abstain from medling with them, as being more hurtfull then profitable, as dayly experience both mine owne, and others doe witnesse. But that thou mayst the better understand what things have a mutuall affinity one with the other: attend a little what I shall say.

Is not hee to be laughed at for his folly who will poure raine, or common water on gold, silver, and other me∣tals to fix them? See therefore the unwise actions of many covetous Alchymists in so hard a matter, that spend their time in trifles, reaping according to what they have sowed, and at last leave off their work which they have undertaken, after they have expended much cost, and spent their labour in stenches, watchings, and cares. For I have oftentimes seene those, that although they have not chosen common water for their menstruum, yet have made choice of May∣dew, snow or rain gathered in March, and water distilled out of Nostock, or excrement of Starres; vegetables and ani∣mals, for their solvent, in which they have lost their labour.

For as the radicall union of the aforesaid things with metals is impossible: so never is any good to be produced from thence, by reason of their difference. And such may deservedly be compared to those, who ascending a very high ladder that hath many steps, doe presently endeavour to flye from the lowermost to the uppermost; which is a thing impossible: so neither can there be any conjunction of things that doe so much differ. But as any one may easily ascend the highest step by degrees, so also any one may (which yet hee need not doe) join together extreames, by adding first a thing that is most neer to one of the extreames, and then to this another next to it, and so by consequence un∣till you come to the other extream, which is a thing that requires a very long time, and is a worke without profit.

And if things be joined together that have the next affinity, the one will be delighted in the other, and the one will embrace the other, will overcome, and retaine it. As for example, there is a certaine salt, and that onely that can coagulate and turne into a body like to it selfe, even com∣mon water, which can be fixed in a very little time with and by one onely certaine minerall, which is very volatile. Minerals also may bee fixed by metals, and metals, (a thing which I never yet tryed) by a certaine thing more excellent then metals, without all doubt. But therefore it is not needfull in the fixation of minerals to begin with the coagulation of water, whereby it is turned into salt; and this afterward into a minerall; which would bee too tedious; but it is sufficient to begin in things most near, in which nature hath begun to operate, but hath left imper∣fect: for then there is hope of gain, if contrary things are not joined together, else not. Behold how ready Nature is at hand to help any thing that is administred to it, which it can help: as for example, make salt of calcined Tartar by the help of solution and coagulation (but doe not take that for it, of which a little before mention hath beene made, which is farre better then salt of Tartar) of which af∣ter it is calcined observe the weight; upon which after∣wards poure halfe the weight of most pure raine water; distilled to avoid the suspition of impurity, then draw off the water gently in Balneo, or sand, which againe poure up∣on the remaining salt of Tartar, and againe draw it off; and this doe so often as is needfull, untill all the water be consumed. Which being done take out the salt, and weigh it being first made red hot in the fire, and thou shall find it to be increased in weight, which increase came from the wa∣ter, and not elsewhere.

Note well that the cohobution of the water is to be re∣iterated often upon the salt of Tartar. Observe that by this means the water is convertible into salt by Art, &c. And if thou dost not beleeve the conversion of things materiall

and corporeall, how wilt thou beleeve the conversion of things immateriall, as of the Sunne, and fire into a mate∣riall fixed substance; of which thing something shall bee treated in our treatise of Aurum potabile, and more at large afterwards in a treatise De Generatione Metallorum, if God permit: For you must know that the circulation of the elements, and things elementated, viz. how one is conver∣ted into another; and how they nourish and cherish one the other. As for example, The earth yeelds water, the water aire, the aire fire, and the fire againe earth, which if it be pure yeelds pure earth. But that thou maist understand a∣right how any thing to be fixed, may be retained by ano∣ther by reason of affinity, observe the following example. The Husbandman casting seed into the earth for to multi∣ply, doth not choose any earth, but that which is convenient for multiplication, viz. an earth that is neither too dry, nor too moist. For the seed cast in sand cannot grow, and is lost. For whatsoever is to be preserved is to be preser∣ved by an equall temper; which by how much it is more equall or like, so much the more perfect substance it doth produce. Humidity therefore being necessarily requisite for the growth of vegetables, without which they can neither grow, nor multiply, but the seed being cast into moist sand, and the raies of the Sunne acting upon that sand, and sudden∣ly consuming the humidity thereof, whence followes the burning up of the seed in the dry sand, because there was no affinity betwixt the water, and sand, without which the water could not be retained by the sand, and conse∣quently the seed deprived of its nutriment; it followes necessarily, that some medium bee required, or bond join∣ing and binding the raine, and sand; viz. salt by the help whereof the raine water is retained by the sand, that it be not so easily consumed by the heat of the sun.

The sand therefore retaines the salt, and the salt the raine water for the nutrition of the bud. But every salt is not convenient for this businesse. For although Christ

saith, Luke Chap. 14. verse the last, that earth without salt is barren, yet any common salt is not to bee understood thereby. For some salts, as common salt, salt of Vitrioll, Allome, &c. doe not onely not doe good, but doe hurt to vegetables, hindring by reason of their drynesse their growth and increase. Now lixiviall salts promote them, that which country-men doe better understand, then our sup∣posed Philosophers: For they know how to help their barren ground with the excrements of animals, which are nothing else but a lixiviall salt mixed with sulphur, make∣ing the earth fat and fertile. And by this meanes a vebi∣culum (rather a bond) is administred to the raine water, that it may the lesse be consumed by the heat of the Sunne. Moreover all seed (consisting in lixiviall salt and sulphur) loves its like, from whence it borrowes its nutriment, which is observed by a few learned as unlearned. Husband∣men may wel be excused of their ignorance, because they work onely out of use and custome. But others that beare the title of learning not so: whose duty it is to render a reason of germination, who may deservedly be ashamed of their ignorance, being lesse knowing then husbandmen. It is manifest that dung makes the earth fruitfull; but how and for what reason, not so; but if it did want nitrous salt, it would neither make it fertile, nor promote germinati∣on. For it is not unknowne that Nitre is made out of the excrements of animals. The goodnesse therefore of the dung consists only in the lixiviall salt contained in it, and not in the straw.

But you will ask perhaps, why doth not any other salt help germination? Why is the salt of dung required to germination, and no other? Wee have already answer∣ed that, like are helped with like, and contraries are de∣stroyed by contraries. For experience doth testifie that a∣ny seed consists in lixiviall salt and sulphur, and not in any acid salt; wherefore also it doth desire and embrace its like. Let him therefore that will not beleeve it make triall

of the distillation of the seed of any vegetable, of which let him force over a pound by retort; and he shall see by experience, that not an acid spirit, but a flegme together with plenty of oyle, and volatile salt whitening the whole receiver, comes over; being that which no root or stalk can doe: For the chiefest vertu, odour, and tast of vege∣tables, animals, and minerals is found in the seed, in which thing provident Nature hath done very well, whilest she at∣tributes the chiefest faculties to the seed, being more obnoxi∣ous to injuries then the rest, which is also preserved, nourished, and cherished by its like.

Now this discourse which might otherwise have beene omitted, was therefore appointed, that the cause of the germination of vegetables might bee made the more manifest; and that what things have beene spoken of at∣traction, and fixation of all things might the better be understood. The germination therefore, and multipli∣cation of both minerals, vegetables and animals must bee spontaneous, and not forced, as is that barren and fru∣straneous of the false Chymists, because preternaturall. Wherefore when you fix any thing bee cautious in the adding of any thing that should retaine it, with which nothing can bee fixed. Fire indeed doth alwayes doe its office; but it knowes not how to help any preternaturall thing; which it doth wholly destroy, against which nothing can bee prevalent, unlesse it bee rightly ordained according to Nature.

And thus much bee spoken for instruction sake, to thee that intendest to fix any thing, lest otherwise thou losest thy labour.

Of the making of the best crucibles.

THe best crucibles that are requisite for the fourth furnace, not being found in every place, I thought it worth while to set down the manner of making them: for I am not igno∣rant how oftentimes many for want of these are constrained to be content with those that are useless, and truly with great loss of metals, whilest the crucibles are broken in the fire, and consequently with a tediousness in drawing them out of the ashes.

Chymists have been in a great error a long time, and not only they but also goldsmiths, and they that separate metals, as also others that need the help of crucibles, who perswade themselves that the best earth that is fit to make the best cru∣cibles is to be found no where but in Hassia; and therefore with great charges have caused that Gibsensian crucibles be brought over; not considering that almost in every place in Germany such earth is to be found, which indeed is a very great folly of men, proceeding from the not knowing of good earth which is to be found almost every where. I do not deny but that the earth of Hassia is very good for crucibles, tyles, retorts, and other vessels which are to be set in a very great fire, for which cause also is commended Gibsensian, and Waldburgensian crucibles.

A few yeers since some have made their crucibles, and other vessels that will endure the fire well, of earth brought out of England, and France into Holland, which have retained metals very well in the fire, but not salts, because they are too porous and not so compact as those of Hassia, wherefore those of Hassia are still preferred before others, retaining better, metals, and salts. But although this earth be brought from thence to other places, yet such strong crucibles could not be made thereof, the cause whereof being not the constitution of the aire, and place to which some have falsly imputed it, but an error in the making and burning of them. For in Hassia there is a great abundance of wood, of which there is no sparing

in the burning the crucibles even to a stony hardness, which could not be done by a smal fire of turffes.

The like errour is committed about stone pots, and other vessels which are made at Frechemium and Siburgus and other places neer Colen, which are carryed almost through all Eu∣rope, the goodness whereof is ascribed only to the earth, and not to the making. But now experience hath taught us that any good earth doth become stony in a violent fire, without respect of the place where it is taken. Wherefore it is very probable, being a thing possible▪ that such vessels are made els where: for every earth being burnt retaining a white colour, viz. with an indifferent fire, makes pots, and crucibles porous, but with a stronger, and with a longer delay, com∣pact like glasse, especially if common salt be cast in a plen∣tiful manner upon them, being burnt with a very strong fire, because it addes to them being very well burnt within an ex∣ternal glasses smoothness, by which means they will be the better able to retaine spirits in the fire. Wherefore let no man doubt concerning the making the foresaid vessels of any other earth that is white in burning, with the help of a very strong fire: which by how much the greater whiteness it gets in burn∣ing, by so much the better and excellent pots it makes; and seeing there is a great difference of making crucibles to be set in the fire, and of stone pots retaining liquid things, I shall shew the manner of making both, viz. of stone pots belong∣ing to the first and second furnace, and of crucibles to the fourth, and thus it is.

He that will try the goodness of white and pure earth, viz. whether it grows stony in the fire, let him cast a peice of crude earth of the bigness of a hens egge into a very strong fire, ob∣serving whether it doth quickly or flowly cleave and break in pieces; which if it doth not cleave and become powder, al∣though it may have some cracks, is good earth, and fit for burning, if so be the mixture be well made, in which lyes the art.

The earth that is to be burnt for pots, receivers, and botles, need no other preparation then that for bricks, which because

for the most part it is too fat, you must mixe with it clean sif∣ted fusible sand, tread it with your feet, and knead it with your hands before vessels be made thereof; which being made are to be dryed in the heat of the Sun, or in some other warme place; and being dryed are to be burnt in a very strong fire for the space of twenty four or thirty hours, on which in the mean time you may cast salt if you please, which being thus burnt do like glass retain easily all liquid things. But let him that makes crucibles, tyles, bricks and other vessels appointed for a very strong fire, use more diligence in the making of them. And truly first he must pound very smal with a wooden hammer, the earth being dryed wel in the Sun, or elswhere, and being poun∣ded searse it through a great searse, & to one part of the sifted earth mix two, three, or four parts (the saltness of the earth being considered) of the earth burnt in a potters furnace, and powdered, which being mixed with a sufficient quantity of water he must tread with his feet, and afterwards knead with his hands, and the earth will be prepared for the making of vessels, and when he makes crucibles and tests, let him pro∣vide for wooden moulds both greater and smaller, made in a turn, by the help whereof they may be made; for the aforesaid vessels cannot be formed by the usual art of the potters; be∣cause the matter of them must be very lean, appointed for a most strong fire, wherefore commonly they are made by the help of moulds after the following manner.

Let a piece of the prepared earth be applyed with your hands to the mould, which you must hold in one hand, ap∣plying and fitting the earth thereto with the other, or hold it with your legs, that the earth may be applyed with both your hands. Also you must first rub the mould very well with clean sifted sand, for else the earth will so stick to the wooden mould, that a crucible can scarce be taken off without danger, which being done, it is further fitted by striking it with a wooden instrument smoothed for the purpose, by which means the crucible lyes very exactly upon the mould, for by this means crucibles are made very strong; which being done also let the crucible be taken off, and set upon a board, and be

dryed, first in the aire, then by the heat of the fire, or sun, and then be burned in the first chamber of our fourth furnace, or in a potters furnace. And if you intend only to melt me∣tals▪ and not salts, you need not burn the crucibles if they be well, and exactly made.

Now this caution is to be observed in melting by the help of crucibles not burnt, that you must give fire above by lit∣tle and little, for fear of breaking the crucibles feeling a sud∣daine heat.

Now that they may be made equal in strength, weight, and thickness, you must weigh one crucible rightly made by the help of the mould in one scale, and a piece of the prepared earth, which is to be put into the other scale, and if they be equal in weight, take out that piece, and put in another; and this do so often, till you be come to the number of the crucibles which you have made: By this means they are made equal, and you need not cut off any overplus of the earth when it is sitted to the mould, because all are made equal, by reason of the equal weight of the matter of each of them, and the work is sooner done then otherwise.

This indeed is the best way but tedious and laborious, where considering the matter a little more seriously, I found at last that the following way is far better then the former: whereby not only stronger crucibles are made, but also more in one hour, then in that former common wayin three or four. Where first the mould is made of latten (on which I advise you to apply the earth) signified by the letter A. viz. that being the best, which is made by the help of fusion. Then the counter-mould answering this, signified by the letter B. yet so that that do not enter too deep into this, not touching the bottome by the distance at least of one fingers breadth; but in greater crucibles a greater thickness of the bottome is requi∣red, as the practise will teach thee.

[illustration]

Let him therefore that is making crucibles apply the earth to the mould, as hath been above said in the first manner, which being done, let him again take off the crucible that is for∣med or cast, and set it in the aire to be dryed. Then having first made a suffici∣ent number of crucibles, let him make the mould clean from the earth or sand, and annoynt it with grease, or oyle Olive taken up with a sponge, as also the counter-mould, into which let him put the crucible being halfe made and dryed, and into this the mould, which he must strike above twice or thrice with a heavy wooden mallet, that the earth may be rightly, and exactly applyed to the mould; which being done let him take off the mould, and turn the counter∣mould together with the crucible, which let him knock a little against the forme (where the crucibles are made) and let him take in his hand the crucible falling from thence; which he must afterwards dry and burn, as hath been above said in

the first manner. And by this way are made the best, and the best proportioned crucibles, fixed and smooth, not only for melting of metals, but also for minerals and salts; the like to which I never yet saw, as being without all danger, if so be rightly made of the best earth. And that they may be made equal in weight and strength, they must be weighed as before hath been said. And this labour is easie and pleasant, when they are made with ones owne hand, and that greater or lesser at pleasure.

After the same manner also are made tests viz. by the help of the like kinde of moulds, which must not be long but plain like tests, as it appears by the annexed figure, A. and B. Not only tests but also cuples are made by the help of these moulds.

Now tests are made

[illustration]

more easily this way then crucibles, because the earth only is weigh∣ed, and being handled with the hands is put in∣to the counter-mould, which then you must with the upperpart press hard; that it may be made conformable to the mould, viz. plaine, not long, that which may easily therefore be made; and for this cause those crucibles are easily again taken out, viz. if the mould be turned, or the counter-mould be a little knocked against the sides of the form. And if the earth be beaten in too fast that it goes out at the sides, you must cut it off with a knife, or else the crucible, or

test is hardly taken out, sticking to the brims, that which practise will teach thee. For all things cannot be so accurate∣ly demonstrated by pen.

And take this for a caution, that thou do not make thy tests and crucibles of earth that is too soft, but of that which is half dry, otherwise they are hardly taken out of the moulds; for that is more easily and rightly applyed to the mould. And if thou proceed rightly according to the prescript, scarce one crucible of a hundred will be lost.

This also is to be observed, that the superfluous earth which is cut off must not be mixed againe to the mass for cru∣cibles, because it is spoyled with the fat, or oyle that is smeer∣ed over the moulds, and therefore cannot be so well mixed a∣gaine, and being burnt cleaves, for which cause bad crucibles are made. Wherefore it is to be kept apart for mending of furnaces that are spoiled with an extraordinary heat of the fire; or for cover of crucibles that are to be made by the help of the hands only, or of moulds, which we cannot want, if we would work all things exactly.

Now for tyles, and other vessels that serve for distillation, and melting, they are made by the help of wooden moulds af∣ter this manner. Let the mould be made exactly like to tyles, and other vessels, then cut off leaves from the earth being very well prepared, with a copper wier upon two equal tables of wood, and then a piece of the earth is to be laid with a knife upon the mould, that it may there get some hardness; which afterward is to be taken away, dryed well, and burnt. And if any thing further is to be done, viz. by cutting off, or adding, it must be done by earth half dryed, or a little harden∣ed. For by this means any one may get for himself earthen vessels that are necessary, without much cost or paines for certainty sake. For those that are sold are negligently made, in which oftentimes in the drying cracks which are made are filled up with some earthen liniment, before they are burnt, which therefore are not durable in the fire, but are broken, and that oftentimes not without great loss of the metal, which is again to be gathered out of the ashes by the help of a tedious

washing. It is better therefore to work those vessels with ones own hand for certainty sake. For not all & every crucible can alwayes and every where be made equal, and be of a like du∣rableness in the fire, though they are made most diligently: and therefore a consideration being had of their goodness they may be used for divers uses, and the better may be used in the melting of the better metals. But let no man perswade himself that all these can indifferently hold in the fire, al∣though they be the best of all, how many so ever you make; for I never yet saw any earth which could hold litharge in the fire and salt of Tartar, because the best that ever I saw is not free from penetration of them, that which is the greatest im∣pediment of some profitable operations, which therefore are omitted.

And let this which hath been spoken suffice concerning the making of crucibles: let every one therefore that hath a care of his business use better diligence for the time to come in the making crucibles for more certainty sake, and he will not repent of his labor. Now how tests and cuples may be exactly applyed to the aforesaid moulds is not my work at this time to shew, because many yeers since it hath been done by others, especially by that most ingenious man Lazarus Ercker, whose writings concerning the manner of making of tests and cu∣ples I cannot mend, to which Authors I refer the reader, where he shall finde sufficient instruction and information concern∣ing this matter. But there are also other tests of which I shall say nothing in this place, but elswhere happily may, by the help whereof lead is bettered in tryal if it be sometimes melted againe.

Of the vitrification of earthen vessels belonging to the first and second furnace.

IN the defect of glass instruments belonging to our first fur∣nace you may make such as are very useful of the best earth, which being well glazed or double glazed are sometimes bet∣ter then old glasse, especially those that are made of earth

that do not drink up the spirit such as is found almost every where, which becomes stony being burnt; now the art of burning hath not hitherto been so well known, of which something hath been said already where the earth being burnt with a very strong fire is made so compact as that it becomes hard and solid as a stone. The potters furnaces being too weak for this strong burning, there is required a peculiar fur∣nace for this work, in which the strongest fire for the burning of them may be made; But because no body thinks to build such an one onely for some few vessels not worth the spending of costs and labors; there is yet another way of vi∣trifying of any sort of earth (red clay only excepted) not to be slighted if well done, especially if the matter vitrifying when it is cold after the burning is ended, doth not cleave and chop, and it is not hurt by corrosive spirits as that glass made of lead retaining spirits, as well subtile as corrosive, as that white vitrification of the Italians and Hollanders; you must therefore in defect of a fitting furnace, wherein vessels being burnt become stony, make them of the best earth and glaze them with the best glass of tin, but not of lead; and by how much the calx of tin goes into the vitrifying mix∣ture, so much the better is it made; for tin being reduced into a calx with lead, hath no more affinity with corrosive spirits; wherefore it is more fit for vitrification. But he that will not not be at so much costs, let him vitrifie with Venice glass powdered, which vitrification also is not to be slighted, requiring a very great heat for the burning, and therefore flowing with great difficulty in these common potters furna∣ces; wherefore you must mix some borax with the glass that it may flow so much the more easily in the potters furnace. Else you must prove upon the earthen vessels being burnt, wa∣ter mixt with glass, so that the glass may stick to them every where exactly, which afterwards being very well dryed, shall be gathered together into one heap artificially, lest they take up two great a space like earthen dishes that are to be burnt, and afterwards compass them round about every where with burnt bricks, a hole being left open above for the casting in of

coals, yet so that the bricks be distant from the vessels the breadth of a hand, whereby the coals being cast in above, may the more freely round about go down to the bottome: which space being filled with dry coals you must put upon them o∣ther living coales, that the fire being kindled above, may by little and little burn downward and perform its work; which being so done the vessels will be out of all danger, if so be they are well dryed.

The fire being kindled and burning, you must cover the hole with stones, untill the fire of its own accord be extin∣guisht; the coals being spent and the vessels become cold.

N. B. Now if there be a great heap of vessels, you must the first coals being burnt, add fresh coals once more; for else the vessels being placed in the midle, cannot be sufficiently burnt, nor the glass sufficiently flow; wherefore caution is re∣quired in the governing of the fire this manner, where if all things are rightly done, the vessels are better and more truly burnt and vitrified then in any common Potters furnace whatsoever; yet with greater danger to the vessels then in a pot∣ters furnace compassed about with wals. But let him that burns crucibles and other smaller vessels, burn them in our melting or distilling furnace, being covered with coals, giving fire first above, for so I my self was wont hitherto to burn all my crucibles, and burn and glaze all other distilling vessels; and this in defect of fitting furnaces is the best way of burn∣ing and vitrifying, where in three or four hours space, the vessels are exactly burnt and vitrified. Now the earth that is burnt quickly must be the best and durable in the fire, for fear of the breaking of some of the vessels. Let him therefore in this case for security sake use our fourth furnace, who hath built it with his chambers, in the first whereof he may burn and vi∣trifie without any danger. But that foresaid way of burning and vitrifying, is not to be slighted; wherefore I would have thee be admonished to be cautious in giving of fire that you give no more or less then you should, lest afterwards you im∣pute the cause of your error committed to me whilest the ves∣sels are broke as if I had not wrote the truth, but to thy self

that errest, and must for the future be more diligent and cauti∣ous in this work.

I know other vitrifications of divers colours hitherto un∣known, and indeed most secret, not to be communicated to every one indifferently. But he that knows to reduce metals into a true glass, retaining the colour of his metal, is indeed the inventor of a very great secret, to whom if he consider the matter more profundly, and exercise himself therein, a gate is open, with the blessing of God, to a greater light.

There are also other vitrifications, with which the earth being covered doth appear, as if it twere adorned with gems, but because it is not our purpose now to treat of such kinds; I shall make an end of vitrifications, onely one excepted, which yet I shall communicate for the sake of the sick and Physitians, and it is this.

Make little earthen cups very smooth and white of the best earth being burnt: then make the following glasses to flow in a very strong crucible, in which dip one cup after another, being held with tongs, and first made red hot in some little furnace, letting them lye covered therein for a while, that the earth may the better attract the glass, which being done, let them be taken out and be set again into the aforesaid colla∣teral furnace, where they were before made red hot, when one is taken out dip another in the molten glass in its place, which also is again to be set as the first into the aforesaid furnace; and this is to be reiterated so often untill all the pots be covered over with glass: all which being done, the furnace is to be shut close every where, that the winde enter not into it, and so it is to be left untill it become cold of it self, and the glass covering over the cups remaine intire, which otherwise can∣not be if the cups be set in a cold place; now the glass is made after this manner.

Take of crude Antimony two parts, of pure nitre one part, grinde them well being mixt together, kindle the mixture be∣ing put into a crucible with red hot iron, and the sulphur of the Antimony will be burnt together with the nitre, a mass of brown colour being left behinde, which you must take

out while it is hot with a spatle that it may coole, which af∣terwards being melted in another strong crucible for the space of half an hour, or an hour, makes that glass with which the aforesaid cups with their covers are covered over.

Of the use of the aforesaid cups.

THere is no one that can deny that Antimony is the most excellent of all vomitives, wherefore so many and so va∣rious preparations have been invented by Physitians for the taking away of the malignity thereof; whereof I have shewed some, together with the use thereof in the first and second part of this book, where alwayes one is better then another; yet nothing withstanding tis confest that Antimony reduced in o glass, is sufficient to purge the stomach and bowels from all corrupt humors, and that without all danger (being rightly administred) as well by vomit as by stoole, by which meanes many grievous imminent diseases are not only prevented, but also presently are cured.

But you infer, that this is yet a crude and imperfect prepa∣ration, and therefore not so safe. To which I answer, that An∣timony that purgeth, needeth no great preparation, for if all the crudity thereof were wholly taken away by fixation it would no more cause vomiting or stools; wherefore the afore∣said glass of Antimony is not to be feared, because it is not dangerous, but may safely be given to children that are one or two yeers old, but not in form of a powder, but in infusion or extraction of its chiefest vertue made with honey, sugar and wine, sweet or sowre. After which manner being given it at∣tracts from all the bowels all vitious humors, and evacuates them aswel upward as downward without danger, of which thing elsewhere more at large. Let him that useth the afore∣said cups infuse one or two ounces of wine, and set them a whole night in some warm place, and the wine will attract from the glass so much as doth suffice it, which afterwards be∣ing drunk in a morning, doth perform the same as infusion made with the powder of Stibium; and this is a more delicate

way then the other, because a cup is sent to the patient that he may infuse in it the space of a night two or three spoonfuls of proper wine, placing it in some warm place, which he may drink up blood warm in the morning, with a due ordering of himself afterwards. Which in my judgement is a more delicate way, being made with ones own wine, and ones own hand, then that tedious way of potions both large, bitter, and nauseous. And this cup may often∣times be used, and if at length the wine should not attract sufficiently, the cup with the wine is to be set in seeth∣ing hot water for a little time, that the wine might the bet∣ter attract, and work, when need shall require. Now he that gives such kinde of cups to others must instruct them concern∣ing the ordering, and administring of the same. One cup is sufficient for the master of a family, with his whole family for all the dayes of their life. It is not to be used by all and every one, and in all diseases indifferently, but only by those that are strong and young, and where the principal parts are not hurt. Cups may also after another way be covered over with glass without Antimony, as follows.

Sublime auripignemtum in a glass or earthen gourd; and take the gallant golden coloured flowers thereof, which being after a peculiar manner melted yeeld a red and most beautiful glass, almost like oriental ruby, wherefore being broken in peices may be used in stead of an ornament; but this is more soft, and brittle then glass of Antimony. This glass or those flowers of auripigmentum, which are not yet reduced in∣to glass, do notably devitreat the aforesaid cups with a red beautiful colour.

He therefore that will vitrifie the aforesaid cups must first heat them red hot in a fire made with coals, and being thus hot dip them in the aforesaid melted flowers, and being taken out thence put them under an earthen, or iron red hot vessel, and there let them coole; which do perform the same things as those which are said of the Antimonial cups.

These cups are not dangerous, as to be feared, because as An∣timony is corrected by calcination, so auripigmentum is by sub∣limation: from which if all the malignity be taken away ei∣ther

by fire, or by nitre, the vomitive vertue is taken away, as afterward shall be demonstrated more at large in these five parts, when they shall come forth again with enlargements, viz. what purging things are, and how they put forth their vertues, a consideration being had of their malignity.

There are also other wayes of vitrification, and indeed very fine, and most desireable by all, if they should be communi∣cated; but because it is not now my purpose to treat here of mechanical things, but onely of some particular vitrificati∣ons of vessels belonging to our furnaces, I am resolved to omit them at this time, and make an end of these things. I am resolved, God willing, to set forth these parts more corrected, and in a larger manner, where many excellent things now o∣mitted for some reasons shall be published, and commuin∣cated.

Wherefore I wil now put an end to this fift part, where al∣though I might have added something that is singular concer∣ning artificial furnaces, yet because time will not now permit, it shall be deferred to another time and place, where we shall treat further of the examining, trying and separation of me∣tals: For the best way of melting of metals in a greater quan∣tity hath not yet been known: And although they that deal in minerals perswade themselves of the perfection of their art, yet I can demonstrate an easier, and more compendious way of melting of metals in a shorter time, in a greater quantity, and with less costs and paines. Of which more at large else∣where, wherefore (Courteous Reader) be contented with these things, and if I shall see that these few things shall be ac∣ceptable to thee, I will sometime hereafter for thy sake and to thy profit communicate wonderful secrets which the world will not believe, and which hitherto are hid, either out of en∣vy or ignorance.

[illustration]

A Cup or melting vessel belonging to the fourth Furnace.