PREFACE

...who first translated his little books into the English tongue is a matter more for curious inquiry than for certain or prompt statement. Regarding this Entrance to the Shut Palace of the King original: "Introitu hoc ad Occlusum Regis Palatium" — One of the most famous alchemical treatises of the 17th century, attributed to Eirenaeus Philalethes., it must be judged differently, since the most experienced Author himself polished it with a second care and gave it forth expanded with new observations. Therefore, when I was staying in England, I learned from men of proven faith that our Philalethes (whether that name be genuine or assumed) had a literary correspondence with many Englishmen; whether he did this himself or through others is of no concern to know. It is now a pleasure to say in support of this opinion that the most illustrious Boyle Robert Boyle (1627–1691), a founding father of modern chemistry who was deeply interested in alchemical transmutation. shared letters with him and cultivated a friendship on more than one account. It happened once that this "Hero of the Gown" original: "Togatus iste Heros" — A respectful term for Boyle as a man of learning and noble status. was

by chance visited by a disciple of a certain Adept Adept: In alchemy, a person who has successfully discovered the Philosopher's Stone and mastered the "Great Work" of transmutation. (who was later thrown into chains among the French). When this man, under Boyle's own inspection, had converted Lead into Gold, and was subsequently asked whether he knew Philalethes, he affirmed that he was at that very time hiding in France. Upon receiving this news, [Boyle] handed reply letters to this man so that, given the opportunity, he might deliver them to Philalethes. But while occupied on that very journey, the man was thrown to the ground with a heavy wound by a fall from the relay horse original: "equi dispositi" — A horse from a postal or courier system designed for rapid travel. he was riding and met his final day. Thus, by this unhappy accident, he choked off the hope of delivering the replies to Philalethes. But there are still other things which seem to shed light on this very obscure matter. For it is well known among all who are touched by any care for natural things, that there recently passed away in London...