The Triumphal Chariot of Antimony. 95 



Art) that glass, whether prepared from 

 metals, minerals, or any other substance, 

 must be subjected to heat, till it has 

 attained._tojnaturity, and exhibits a clear 

 and pellucid transparency. Let all and 

 several remember that that maturity and 

 this transparency are performed solely by 

 Vulcan operating on the secret and con- 

 cealed nature. Otherwise, it is unprofit- 

 able for any further medicinal develop- 

 ment. * 



When Antimony has become vitri- 



fied in the way described, heat aTS 

 __ - _ 



* It is obvious that Basilius is here writing for beginners 

 so clearly and circumstantially does he describe the very 

 rudiments of the work. Yet even veterans may now and 

 then find it no easy task to put his directions into practice. 

 In such difficulties I hope that my commentary may prove 

 useful. I have paid for the experience which it contains 

 with much time, labour, and expense ; and therefore I have 

 thought it my duty to warn and instruct those who after me 

 should travel the same road. I cannot say that I greatly 

 pity people whose minds are set only on wealth ; but I do 

 wish to help those who have undertaken this study for the 

 sake of their suffering neighbours. Such persons I exhort to 

 read my commentary : for one word from me may often save 

 them endless trouble and expense. Such a warning in time 

 might frequently have been worth several thousand florins to 

 me. I do not undertake to give elementary instructions to 

 the beginner, but only to remove certain obstacles out of the 

 way of the student. 



