Mead 223 



Our old friend Butler caps the climax of these honeyed 

 drinks by offering us one which we would do well to accept. 

 The following is what he has to say about this remarkable 

 '■' honey altered by distillation into a water, which Raimun- 

 dus Lullius (that excellent chemist) called the quintessence 

 of honey." 



" This quintessence dissolveth gold, and maketh it po- 

 table ; likewise, any sort of precious stone that is put 

 therein. It is of such virtue, that, if any be dying, and 

 drink two or three drains thereof, presently he will revive. 

 If you wash any wound therewith, or other sore ; it will 

 heal quickly." 



Indeed, " of so marvellous efficacy is this water " that it 

 will heal many diseases be they never so obstinate. 



Fortunately for the world of suffering humanity, the 

 formula of this remarkable beverage has not been denied us. 

 Butler says : — 



"The making of it is after this manner. Take two 

 pounds of perfect pure honey, and distil it, when the 

 receiver will contain a water of red color like blood." 

 Keep the receiver tightly closed and let it stand until clear 

 and of the color of a ruby. Then distil it in Balneo Maria 

 seven times, when it will lose its reddish color and become 

 as yellow as gold with an " exceeding pleasant smell." 



