PREFACE.

might observe that, not only in previous ages but even in this of our own, that singular philosophical blessing of GOD has not been denied to certain men. For certain reasons, it did not seem advisable to publish my name, as I do not seek praise for myself but strive to be useful to the lovers of Philosophy. Therefore, I leave the vain desire for glory to those who prefer TO SEEM rather than TO BE.

What I write here as an attestation of undisputed Philosophical truth—comprehended in a few words—has been drawn from the practical experience practical experience: original "manuali experientia," emphasizing hands-on laboratory work over mere book learning granted to me by the Most High original: "Altissimo," referring to God. I do this so that those who have laid the first and real foundations in this most praiseworthy science may not, through this encouragement, abandon the practice of these most beautiful things; and thus they may be safe from the wicked crowd of Smoke-sellers Smoke-sellers: "Fumivenduli," a common derogatory term for fraudulent alchemists who promised much but produced only smoke and deception, for whom it is sweet to deceive. These are not dreams, as the ignorant common folk say, nor the empty fictions of idle men, as those foolish and unwise who laugh at the art claim. It is the very Philosophical Truth, which I, as a lover of truth, in