Subterranean Physics

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PREFACE BY G. E. STAHL.

When the most industrious Mr. JOHANN LUDWIG GLEDITSCH—a man striving to deserve well not only of the book trade but of literature itself—had decided to publish once again the Subterranean Physics original: Physicam Subterraneam of JOHANN JOACHIM BECHER, he was moved by some intuition (I know not what) to request my assistance in this business. He may have done so, perhaps, because he heard that I have not ceased to publicly praise and recommend this book for quite some time now. By this effort, if nothing else, it has come to pass over these past years that at least several hundred learned men—who have heard or read my opinion of this book and its learned doctrine—have sought to buy it with greater eagerness. And since copies have been out of print for some years, it was much in demand. Certainly, this recommendation of mine has contributed and been of more benefit to this result than it was a hindrance.

Therefore, I did not wish to fail this most honorable man in his praiseworthy purpose, and this for a twofold reason: First, because I have always considered it most right to promote the further distribution and propagation of this book in every way, due to its truths and its excellent scientific method for experimental chemistry Experimental Chymia: In this period, "Chymia" referred to the transitional science between alchemy and modern chemistry, focusing on the analysis of substances through fire and laboratory practice. But also, secondly, because I dare to trust myself so much in the subject matter this book treats, that I feel confident I can say as much as anyone else I know.

Since it is possible that these two reasons I have offered might be misunderstood—giving rise to a less than favorable judgment of my character—I deem it necessary to explain them a little better in a few words. That I have always held in the highest esteem—and shall continue to do so—those men who have served literature well, especially those of my own "tribe" original: tribûs, namely Physics, Chemistry, and Medicine, whether through their noble intentions and liberal study (though not everywhere with equal success) or through the actual results of solid science and experience; of this I have witnesses, both public and private, in all my writings, lectures, sayings, and discourses, among all men capable of understanding and judging. In this, I am so far from trying to conceal those from whom I have profited, that I would rather [show] all others [respect]...