CHAP. IV. Of the Order which we will follow in the Description of Chymical Operations.

THE order to be observed in the description of the five Principles extracted from Mixt Bodies by Chymical Ope∣rations, may be given two several wayes: for there may be first compiled in a Treatise all the Waters, either simple or compounded, according to their several kinds, as also the Oyls in another, and so of the Salt, and likewise each other of the Principles. Secondly, These Substances may be described in the same Order, as their Extraction out of the Individual Bodies of Nature is performed. This last method we intend to follow, as that which satisfies better the mind of the Inquisitor, and breeds less confusion. We shall then accordingly give to each Mixt in particular a chapter by it self, wherein we shall give an exact de∣scription of the nature of the Mixt; and of all the Chymical Operations useful and necessary to Physick: forgetting nothing Page  117of what may conduce to the exact information of the Artist, in exactly and curiously anaromizing the Mixt upon which he doth intend his Operation, untill he hath separated all the several parts wherewith Nature hath endowed it.

And to proceed more methodically, we shall begin by Meteors, wherein we are to speak of Rain, Dew, Honey, Wax, and B•ine or Sea-water; next to which, we will teach those Preparations which belong to Animals and their parts. Then we follow speak∣ing of Vegetables; where we will teach, how the parts of that rich and numerous Family are to be anatomiz'd; and finally, end by Minerals, examining the contents of Stones Salts, Marcassites, and Metals, whereof we shall separate the hardest, and fixest parts, to draw from thence those wonderfull Remedies, which are lockt up in the Center of those true fruits of the Earth.