PREFACE

imprinted power or impression original: Impression; refers to the alchemical concept of a celestial or spiritual "stamp" being fixed onto physical matter runs along with it, it is unnecessary to explain at length here; the many types of fresh waters prove it, which initially flow from the abyss of the sea original: ex abysso maris into the earth, after they have now deposited their salt—whether much, little, or entirely—and the earth has drawn it to itself, they spring forth again with no or very little salty taste. Our common kitchen or table salt itself proves it, as the center of the element of water original: centrum Elementi aquæ, (for its shell and surface original: cortex & superficies is simple, tasteless water original: aqua insipida simplex) with which all minerals and metals—understand their purer parts original: puriores illorum partes—can, both without and with its appropriate additive, in many ways and manners—where one proceeds skillfully and not sophistically sophistically; in alchemy, this refers to "sophistry" or deceptive, superficial practices that do not follow the true laws of nature—be radically original: radicaliter; meaning at the root or fundamental level opened up, and then further, as if born anew in their mother (especially gold), they can be abundantly increased and exalted in their innate powers.

With what desire even desolate and empty earths take the nature of salt into themselves...