TO THE READER.

the left side is held by deep Charybdis original: "alta Charybdis"; Charybdis was a mythical whirlpool in the Odyssey. Together with Scylla (mentioned on the previous page), it represents a "path between two dangers.", I have gladly brought this work into the light, lest seekers be snatched away through pathless tracks and rush headlong into ruin. I would have unlocked many hidden and obscure secrets of the Ancients original: "Antiquorum"; this refers to the respected authorities of old, likely Greek and Arabic alchemical sources., if time and opportunity had favored the occasion. Therefore, may you be permitted to enjoy this labor of mine.

But before you gird yourselves for the work (if the desire of your heart so leads you), I would wish you not only to think, but to reason precisely original: "exacte ratiocinari"; implying a process of logical calculation and rigorous mental preparation. upon this matter nine times, ten times—indeed, many more. For let it be truly so: that the expenses are minimal, and that a small amount of powder Powder: in alchemical literature, this usually refers to the "Powder of Projection," a refined substance capable of transmuting base metals into gold, or the "Philosopher's Stone" in its pulverized form. (to which many names are given) in a small...