The Triumphal Chariot of Antimony. 151 



the oil, when there will remain its spirit, 

 with the Mercury ; sublime over a strong 

 fire, and place all that is sublimed again 

 at the bottom of the vessel. Pour to it 

 as much of the oil of vitriol as before, 

 and repeat the process three times. At 

 the fourth time place all that is sublimed 

 with the sediment ; pound, and it will be 

 pure and bright as crystal ; place in cir- 

 culatory vessel, add the same quantity 

 of oil of vitriol, and three times as much 

 spirit of wine ; circulate till separation 

 takes place, and the Mercury is resolved 

 into oil, floating over the rest like olive 

 oil. Separate this oil from the re- 

 mainder, place in circulatory vessel, pour 

 to it strong distilled vinegar, and leave 

 for twenty days ; hereby the oil recovers 

 its gravity, and drops to the bottom, 

 while all that was poisonous in it remains 

 in the vinegar.* 



* No candle is needed at midday, nor need the com- 

 mentator speak when the author is so clear and lucid. Only 

 go forward bravely, planting your feet firmly at every step, 

 and you will at last obtain the golden branch. For this oil 

 itself possesses marvellous efficacy in the improvement of 

 metals, and yields only to the King of Kings himself. 



