On Natural and Supernatural Things

—[write] The word fragment "ben" from the previous page completes the sentence where the editor formally presents the work to his patrons., asking most diligently and kindly that you would receive such a small tribute in good spirit, and as men of superior understanding, help to defend and protect it against all haters of true medicine and against false unauthorized printers. And although I possess but the most humble understanding of such mysteries original: "Heimligkeiten." In this context, it refers to the "secrets" of alchemical processes and the hidden workings of nature., I nevertheless know with certainty that all the philosophical writings of Brother Basil original: "Fratris Basilij." Referring to Basilius Valentinus, the purported Benedictine monk and alchemical author. are constructed with such thorough evidence that they will remain unshakeable, even against those would-be-wits original: "Klüglinge." A derogatory term for critics who possess superficial knowledge but lack practical experience in the laboratory. who have the least experience in these matters.

I hereby commend both gentlemen to the protection of the Most High, in the confident hope that the gentlemen will, with this short description, for now—