On the Secrets of the Adepts

stood The text begins mid-word, likely continuing 'intelligo' from the previous page: "What, I ask, could have been understood..." by those to whom this matter was a care and dear to the heart; and therefore it is the less to be wondered at that this noble and necessary Art original: "ars," referring to alchemy has not made greater progress, as common chemistry chemistry: (Latin: chymia) Here the author refers to "vulgar" or common chemistry, which he distinguishes from the higher, philosophical pursuit of true alchemy. testifies, where the names of distinguished medicines resound, yet those very things remain unknown, and the husks are given instead of the kernels.

Recently, indeed, we received not only hope but even promises from the Brotherhood of the Rosy Cross Brotherhood of the Rosy Cross: (Latin: Roseæ Crucis fraternitate) A mysterious spiritual and cultural movement that arose in Europe in the early 17th century, promising a universal reformation of mankind through alchemy and secret wisdom., as if they intended to make this century of ours more blessed by their studies. But since no effect has been heard of so far, we must fear that such splendid promises may never be fulfilled.

On the contrary, Experience original: "Experientia" testifies that instead of a universal good flowing from this fountain of the Art, the world has rather been entangled in many and great miseries because of it. For the Adepts Adepts: (Latin: Adepti) Individuals who have successfully completed the "Great Work" of alchemy, gaining the Philosopher's Stone., asserting in their writings—and indeed, confirming with oaths time and again—that they have treated the art more clearly and truly than any other philosophers original: "philosophis", have by that very act stimulated many beginners Beginners: (Latin: tyrones) Novices or students in the field of alchemy. of all ranks and faculties to undertake their chemical labors according to the method of their prescriptions. These students expose themselves not only to intolerable expenses but also, as if stubborn in a certain confidence that they [have grasped] the genuine mind of the author—