John Monte Snyder - Metamorphosis of The Planets
John Monte Snyder - Metamorphosis of The Planets
John Monte Snyder - Metamorphosis of The Planets
of the PLANETS
Friendly Reader.
Now forasmuch as at this time the lot is fallen upon me, of all
the most unworthy, I am constrained without delay to accomplish in
sincerity and truth the will of the most High. To this End
therefore in the name of my God, I as a seedsman am minded to sow
the universal seed which the philosophick spirit hath imparted
unto me, over all the world or stony, sandy, bushy, fruitful, and
unfruitfull fields, so that neither the just nor the unjust can
have any pretence to complain against God in this time of grace.
And that I may now certify and make known before all the world my
vocation that by the appointment of God the spirit of all Philo-
sophers speaketh through me, and that I may demonstrate that
through the spirit of God the Keys both of heaven and hell are
committed unto me; it is very necessary that I bring to light the
matter it self, together with the opening and shutting Key,
whereby the mystery of this world, the womb of all natures is
opened, all things are impregnated and promoted towards the birth.
But whereas I with both my feet did touch the two irrational
children of the great world, I thereby gave to understand that the
nethermost was as the uppermost which I shewed with my fingers,
and yet the uppermost was like the nethermost; and that the earth
whereon with arms out I thus sat, was the mother and bearer of
temporal salvation, who had subjected and made serviceable to me
both her children, whereof the one was lunary, the other herma-
phroditick; viz. a solary and Lunary birth. Both these are dis-
tinguished from each other by a small little stream laterally
flowing out. And like as the Sun is to be discerned from the Moon,
even so also are these two easily to be discerned one from the
other, especially if it be considered that the Philosophers have
appropriated to one birth the signs of water as a lunary
character. For the Moon governs the Water and whereever the wise
have adjoined a watery sign, the same is to be accounted Lunary.
Concerning these three or rather two worlds I have taken upon me
first of all to treat and afterwards (to manifest my vocation) of
the permutation of the planetary forms, of their corruption,
generation and melioration of the the whole Essence with the
greatest brevity that may be.
He that hath ears to hear let him hear, and he that hath eyes to
see let him see and search, and so he will here in this place find
that very thing which hath been elsewhere sought by many thousands
and yet not found.
THE METAMORPHOSIS OF THE PLANETS
CHAPTER 1
That like as in the seed of all things the nature and property of
all things is driven into a narrow compass, even so the property
of all the world is visibly impressed by a peculiar and proper
character upon this new born hermaphroditick child, by virtue
whereof the child bears the likeness and figure of its mother in-
wardly and outwardly, and is named the next matter. He who under-
stands not this my meaning is as yet to be esteemed no
Philosopher:
For who ever is ignorant of the root of minerals knows not natures
principles. By the root understand the seed of all metals and etc.
Which without root can bring forth no fruit. But how such a seed
of two-fold nature or birth is to be discerned, shall be clearly
taught in that which follows. Wherefore look for it.
CHAPTER II
How to know the world from the world: That is, How the Hermaphro-
ditiack little irrational mineral world is to be distinguished
from the Lunary feminine birth. And farther how the nethermost is
like the uppermost.
CHAPTER V
How all the Planets offer their services to the Monarch of this
World, and after the common guise of the world pretend kindred in
hope to obtain great favour. And how Mercury and Jupiter fell at
strife about it.
This was noised throughout the whole world. Behold now each one
will be nearest of kin. Each offers his hands. Mars and Venus come
with their Peliga (pledges?) and will convince thee that they are
of thy stock and family: For they bear part of thy arms and
eithers Escutcheon is inwardly adorned with thy golden colour.
Mercury stept in barefooted without the ornament of his head,
bowed his head to the earth, humbling himself above all measure in
hope to be exalted. He was accepted: For the most powerful who
bears in his hands the law both spiritual and temporal, was
formerly carried upon the wings of Mercury into the kingdom into
the Throne, which is granted to none but him to possess. For
essentialized Mercury as a wind carried him in his belly. By the
wind is always the Air and by the Air Mercury understood.
In the mean time there came crowding in with his one foot the
old decrepid and impatent Saturn, halting in great haste towards
the circle; but in getting up he fell upside down, whereupon there
was raised a mighty laughter amongst all the Planets. And Venus in
particular (after the manner of young wemon) laughed and shouted
at the old mans misfortune. For he scrabled with his hands, and
with his stump-foot could no so much as raise himself up. In such
manner had he overlaboured himself in mercuries circle, yet he
could hardly fetch breath. Which notwithstanding he would needs
straight produce his plea, and thus sitting upon the Earth with a
most hoarse voice began to speak. He blamed all the Planets that
they without his presence had congratulated, and by congratulating
had as it were established the Monarch. He alledged many
prejudices on purpose to retard and fully to annul the act. For he
was ready to maintain that he as a prover of them all, must also
approve whatsoever was concluded in the assemblies of the Gods.
But as he was thus speaking the most inraged Jupiter interrupted
him and spake with a loud clap of thunder, so yet Saturn was fain
to be dumb being already hoarse and weary, and Jupiter spake to
the Monarch and said, that it was enough for him that he had been
so long in such quiet possession, and that he desired to be
maintained therein; saying that Mercury himself according to his
own confession by reason of his earthly coldness and pre-alledged
ponderosity, ought worthily to be accounted for the undermost of
all and not for the most high. But I said he in his mother English
speech am spiritual, angelical and altogether divine, and of my
own strength able (together with my young ones) to climb up to the
circle of the Sun. I am Solary and fiery, whereupon it was granted
me to bear about thundering and lightning forever. I ought saith
he and will have my seat and even with the King. For I can guard
the King, and therefore am called Jupiter elect, because I as a
regent of thunder and lightning am able to stand by and defend the
most high, and therefore it stands written:
Fire in the presence of the most high. How cannst thou now thou
Vagabond fawning dissembler appropriate this worthiness to thy
self.
CHAPTER VII
CHAPTER VIII
How the Philosophers awake out of their sleep and explain them-
selves, and how the limber Jupiter is condemned.
CHAPTER IX
How after this sentence was fastened on the Tree of life every
ones eyes were opened, and how the Tree of life was known by its
three ends standing out of which were formed diametrically and
perpendicularly; and how they who had laboured in vain complain,
and purpose to revenge themselves on the Philosophers and etc.
For this Tree was a jungy (juicy) stumpy, leaveless but not
fruitless Tree, characterised with three arms whereof one arm
pointed toward the East but the other toward the west. Both these
arms cover the latitude of the world. The trunk of this Tree grew
up from the Sphere of the Sun, and from the globe of the greater
fortune stright upright. The virtue of this Tree is in its root
and etc.
CHAPTER IX
How Mercury after he had transmuted himself into the Mercury of
Philosophers.
After these -things thus passed I heard from far a voice that
cried, Wo, Wo to thee Mercury! How wilt thou now do thou most
haughty spirit? Thou must down and thy feet must ascend above thee
throughout thy body and life. Thou must loose thy lunary shine
(splendour). If that be not done thou art disbanded by the Goddess
Venus. For Behold all the benefits that thou heretofore shewedst
unto Cereberus, thou hast for the most part taken up of Venus, and
particularly of Neptune. 0 thou most miserable Mercury, what hast
thou gained by the sentences, whereby the business is now come to
such a pinch that sometimes there is no need of thee. But if thou
shouldest, as I have already seen, cast thy skin, both heaven and
earth will in the end be full of the first matter. For in all the
Planets there preceded a transmutation of forms, and all this was
done partly by conjunction of other Planets, as by precipitation,
or sublimation of the exceeding poetious oppressed ensign in the
day of the exaltation of the cross of the Lord, which the
courteous Reader may with greatest attention preconceive, read,
and consider farther of in the following transmutations. For my
intention is that thou mayst rightly learn to know the dew Matter.
The preparation is also herein described so that the serious
reader hath no need to seek the same in other books. But the true
understanding of my book must be mastered by an often reading. And
when thou comprehendest one place, observe the same manner of ex-
plication in all leaves, and it shall never repent thee of thy
pains, for which thou art to render thanks to God alone, from whom
the Elucidation of all mysteries proceedeth.
CHAPTER XI
How Mars out of wrath broke in pieces his Sphere, and at length
out of vehemency of passion was transmuted into the Shape of his
King at whose side he stood, and what afterwards was done with
him.
Mars and Venus remain yet with the King, but Jealousy creeps
forth: For Mars saw that even from the nethermost, yea from the
most exceedingly unfortunate-making common Saturn there was become
so very mighty a Monarch. This perplexed the most valiant Prince
of War before whom the whole world quakes and trembles, from whom
the Monarch himself hath borrowed his beauty and strength, that
others were preferred before him and yet he must be subject to the
weak. Whereupon he was mad and raged above all measure, threw the
covering or Helment of his head under his feet, laid his Sphere
(spear?) upon his terrible head, carried him so as if he would
there break it in pieces. But the noble Venus took hold of the
middle and came in the nick, whereupon the furious Mars was aston-
ished and became a stony royal Mineral. For vehement passion
altered his body by way of imitation, because of the virtue which
the similitude of the thing had so transmuted the thing, about
which his vehement imagination was moved. So powerful was the
symbol between Mars and the King that he was on a sudden
transformed into his shape. And like as Diana placed horns upon
Actaeon, even so wasVenus inclined to set up upon Mars her own
foundation and the Mysteries of her signature.
CHAPTER XII
How the Dragon who had his habitation in this new Martial world,
by the ordination of God was seized by a powerful Eagle, taken,
and imprisoned; and lastly how the preparation of the true work
was demanded of him.
After this there was very secure dwelling in the world, for the
Dragon did no farther injury either to Animals, Vegetables or
Minerals, but much rather promoted each according to the nature of
its kingdom and custom. This proceeds hence for that the same so
long staying in the Dens of the world and Earth was fed in like
manner even as Animals and Vegetables. But his food is the green
Earth and that most necessary spice which Neptune communicateth to
us.
CHAPTER XIII
How the true natural Venus out of desperation precipitated her
self into a deep water, and how the same was rescued by the Eagle
and changed into the highest character, and what further ensued.
This request of the Eagle was accepted, for the Emperour said:
Be it so, and as soon as the word Fiat was pronounced, Venus was
seen sitting above all the Planets, and ahd taken in the uppermost
station of the old Saturn, and also received his figure and shape.
But his figure was not as the figure of him whom every man
acknowledgeth for Saturn, but it was a most perfect character,
that is fast shut in on every side, and their ensigne. In this
sign thou shalt overcome, was at the top of it. This became the
universal character excellently well. This the Heroic Mars with
his knights who were present saw very well, he approached and sued
as a lover in the best manner for the exceeding precious royal
Jewel. But she who by the peculiar appointment of God had adorned
her self with that most costly Jewel at this time knew not Mars at
all, notwithstanding that he expressly put her in mind of that
friendly deed which heretofore had passed between Venus and
himself in courtship. But Venus who was revived from death into
life (in case she may still be so called) nothing regarded all
this. Whereupon Mars with due reverence was constrained to take
his leave.
But Venus began, as was fit, to adorn herself with the universal
sign of Salvation, and so went to the looking-glass and having
beheld herself therein she was affrighted at the representation of
her figure; for she no more found her ancient shape, neither knew
what was done to her, but at length imagined that the mirrour must
needs be so made that the same should present the nethermost above
and the uppermost below, whereupon she felt with her hands upon
the looking-glass,and found that the same was plain even and not
hollow ground. Whereupon she rejoiced inwardly and smiled with her
shining white countenance and ruddy cheeks, for she saw a true
change of her whole essence. Hereupon she called to mind a wonder-
ous fountain, which during the time of exile she by chance once
came unto, in which she then saw her self exactly in the very same
shape whereunto she was now changed, and therefore conceited there
must needs be some prophetic spirit therein concealed which fore-
told the future through the present inverted figure.
Now whilst she was thus contemplating this matter, she was in
some measure afflicted, and said: Truly I very well observed this
my condition in the fountain, and the vision is verified. But
forasmuch as -the figure was not a meer shaddow, but water also, I
still fear said the.most high transformed Queen, some greater
wonder. Whilst she was thus speaking I heard a voice out of the
Air, which said: Thou before the creation o~ the world wast water
therefore shalt thou also loose this thy form, and by the help of
the Eagle who rescued thee out of the fountain, thou shalt again
become a clear water. This water called living Mercury.
CHAPTER XIV
How Mars by the help of his Pegasus indeavoured to ravish Venus
and how Phoebus hindered the same.
Mars from his high rock, beheld the noble exceeding beautious
new-born Queen, and having still fresh in his memory a touch of
the old courtship, was well pleased with his own thoughts, and yet
he received no comfort, for it seemed to him that the noble most
mighty Queen was many thousand times more amiable and comely than
before when he debaucht her. Thus began he to prophesy and said:
Behold the wanton Venus is still a pure Virgin who has of herself
the seed of her own impregnation. This and the like he said, took
heart, mounted on Pegasus, and purposed ere she were aware to
attack and ravish the noble Queen. But envious fortune was against
him, for as he was thus hastening through the Air his shaddow was
before him upon the earth. Whereupon the noble Queen lookt up and
perceived it was a Martial stratagem, and therefore be-took
herself into a deep dark cave. And although Mars would gladly have
made haste after her, yet in respect his body was harnissed he
could by no means compass it. Wherefore half desperate he hastened
into the next wood there to spy out his advantage. But the Queen
which by this change had drawn to herself the kingdom from the
monarch, was at this time, afraid of Mars, and therefore continued
in the Cave. Phoebus had from above very well observed these
passages, and while Mars was hovering in the Air, he shone and
darted his beams on the back of Mars and his Pegasus, so that
thence a shaddow must needs pass before unto the earth. In this
manner Phoebus discovered, and that very much to his own advantage
the purposes Of Mars, for he himself was inwardly inflamed with
ardent love. Now whereas this his beloved, perhaps by a special
providence continued longer then pleased him in her love, he be-
took himself on high, and by his golden beams descended into her
deep dark cave and illuminated the same, and imbraced this lovely
virgin his true Mother, and fulfilled his desire. Whereupon she
was loyal to him, and they espoused each other, and became two in
one body.
CHAPTER XV
How Mars revenges himself upon Phoebus, stirs up Vulcan against
him. How Vulcan burns up Phoebus together with the Queen in the
fire, and how both their Souls appeared to Mars, and how Mars
proceeds with these souls to make the same corporeal.
Mars was fain to behold all this with patient eyes from far and
could not hinder it, but yet considered of a mean and way to rev-
enge himself, and therefore with his flying horse made haste to
Vulcan, Venus husband, and brought him tidings that his wife was
yet alive, and that she was a thousand-fold handsomer then before,
and how she had layn a long time in dallyance with Phoebus in a
deep Cave. Vulcan was ashamed and said I my self am the occasion
of this mischief because I would not accept my wife heretofore
when the most blessed Eagle presented her unto me. Hereupon he
grew outrageous and said, Dear Cousin, lead me to the Cave. Which
Mars willingly did, and therefore took him up before on his horse,
and brought him to the Entrance of the Cave. Vulcan laid his ears
to the mouth of the Cave, listened and yet could not learn whither
the two lovers, namely the first and the last matter, were still
there or no, and therefore was desirous since his heart out of
strong jealousy still leaped so within his body that he could not
hear, that Mars would once listen whither they were both yet
present or not. Mars well observing them in respect of their
inward affection so deeply in love together that they, even as if
intranced, were livingly dead, gave Vulcan to understand this
amity. Then prepared Vulcan an artificial firework which was made
of an unkindled fire, or a fiery Air, and of a Vegetable Salt.
These he mixed very well, and therewith set the whole cave on
fire. But these two lovers were not aware of it, and when they
understood it, they regarded it still the less, but stayed
together until at length Vulcan from above threw down his prepared
powder in great quantity by the Entrance, and with a most strong
heat reduced them both to dust and ashes, which he brought forth
and put it in his drink, which was common well-water, which got
thereby a very strange taste so that Mars could not drink of it
but was fain to mix it with wine. And as soon as he had poured
white Wine to it, behold the clear water was changed, and out of
it there was a thick and most beautiful red Essence in the hand of
the inamoured Mars who reserved these ashes as reliques, and
gathered them up for an everlasting remembrance, as a sacred
thing. But as soon as this had so happened in -the hands of Mars,
he cryed out with a very loud Voice: 0 Venus, my Venus, thy beauty
is fit for none but me alone. O fortunate chance that hath
transmitted unto me so precious a treasure and etc.
And when he had spoken this with great joy, he intreated Vulcan
not to take it ill at his hands, but to bestow him the blood of
Venus, since Venus had in his hand (Mars) separated herself from
the water, and thereby gave to understand that she will have no
communication with this common water, yea and for this time ought
to be rescued from the danger of water.
Vulcan (at other times none of the wisest) seeing this wonderful
adventure, namely that fire, or the highly red soul of Venus had
shewed herself unto Mars out of -the Water, easily consented.
Whereupon Mars took -the remaining ashes and with common water
elixiviated the hidden living soul, filtered the water, and freed
the soul from the Water by pouring on Vinegar, wherewith he so
long plied the soul till she shewed herself visibly, insomuch that
he could very conveniently rescue her.
CHAPTER XVI
How Mars by the advice of a certain Philosopher, with the soul, of
his transformed Venus, whereto the soul of the Sun was joined,
attempted to awaken a new Venus, and wherein he failed. And also
how by violence he wrested from Vulcan the dead body wherein the
clarified body was hidden.
Now after that Mars had mastered the fiery dry soul, as is above
related, he asked a very learned Philosopher how he should manage
this treasure: Who gave this true resolution. Thy former Venus in
her ancient form and shape shalt thou never more see, for she is
now twice changed, first into the matter of the Stone, but
afterwards by Vulcan with Phoebus she was adapted for the extract-
ion of the three Principles, but thou in due time mayst see her in
a shape an hundred times more beautiful. Wherefore take of her
soul one part; of her spirit as much, but forget not the ashes.
Put it in a close Chamber, give in the beginning gentle heat, and
do in all things as thou knowest so without fail shalt thou come
to thy intent. Mars did as was commanded him, but as yet he could
not wholly understand all this that the Philosophers commanded him
whereby to mix the blood with its proper spirit. At last of all he
considered how that both of them were born out of one matter, out
of one spirit and out of one vitriolic Earth. Yea Mars considered
also how that heretofore he himself was changed into the first
matter when Venus in his desperation held him by the arms, and
thereupon the figure of a certain stony twinkling Saturnal Mineral
was communicated to him as is to be read in the foregoing
chapters.
CHAPTER XVII
How Mars adjured Vulcan, that he would help to promote the bus-
iness, and how Vulcan instructed him concerning the strange
colours, which made Mars suspicious.
Mars believed all this, for he found in his mind that it could
be no otherwise, and said; Dear Cousin, I well understand that
thou art better experienced in the business than I, forasmuch as
thou only hast ripened and accomplished the most precious Medicine
of the Philosophers. I intreat therefore that thou wilt take my
business in hand, for I hereby promise thee that I will henceforth
live like a Brother with thee. Yea, which is more, in case the
Queen of salvation shall elect thee instead o Phoebus, I promise
thee to afford thee all brotherly assistance against him, upon
condition that I may place on the top of my Helmet as a well des-
erved Crown, that most costly Jewel which came into the world with
her, out of which she was born that shines clearer than the Sun,
and from which the sun hath acquired his lustre and colour and
etc.
Vulcan took great pains and could hardly appease Mars because of
his settled suspicion, until he had discovered unto him the whole
intrigue. Wherefore he said, hearken to me gentle brother, and
give credit to my words. Juno is the Apholstress of this most
noble Queen, predictress that declares that the Queen will
suddenly enter and possess her kingdom, wherefore she is come as
you saw to furnish and accommodate with all sorts of paintings and
tapestries (as is custom able in all royal courts) the royal
chamber. And that thou mayst comprehend it said he, mark carefully
the example that I shall relate unto thee. In winter all -things
upon earth are unshapely, yea even as it were forzen to death; but
when the spring approacheth the earth is again revived with all
manner of Vegetables, green foliage, and invested with flowers of
various colours, and when this sign is overpassed then follows
the wished fruit according to the nature of each thing, and the
property of its seed. Even so it is with the Philosophic Work: For
if rottenness that is black death were not perceived in the Work,
there would follow no germanation, Autumn or Harvest. The darkness
which thou hast seen is the corruption whereof the Philosophers
have written so much. But Juno with her Peacock by her greenness
first declared the spring, and then by the colours the
germination. Wherefore thou hast no reason to be angry, but rather
highly to rejoice.
Mars held his peace a long time, at last demanded what then
Jupiter had there to do in the royal chamber. Whereunto Vulcan
replied and said that Jupiter descended thither on purpose to
present the Scepter and Crown unto the Queen of Salvation, and
afterwards to sue for the office of Marshall. For out of this
matter of which this Empress is born, were all the metals likewise
born. Whereupon it is also necessary that the colours of all the
metals appear in the glass and that one Planet should translate
and drive away the other from their office and virtue until the
most permanent of them all through the beauty of Venus and the
sanguinary colour of Mars shall possess the kingdom in peace.
Take heed gentle Brother that you touch not the chamber otherwise
we shall both be robbed of all hopes. For remember that if the
budds be plucked from the Tree, that -then there can be no fruit
therefrom.
CHAPTER XVIII
How Vulcan opened the last gate, and how Mars was slain by the
King, such and likewise what strange wonderful colours appeared.
Mars had observed all this very well, but dust not ask Vulcan
anything further, for he saw him busy in opening the last gate.
When it was opened the fiery flames or heat assalted the Kings
Palace in all Quarters, and there appeared many thousand mirrours,
and each mirror represented the beauty of him that was to reign
without end. Mars looking round about could not espy the Queen who
had taken upon her the shape of Diana, but found in her stead the
most wise King Soloman sitting in his glory, and therefore
requested to Vulcan that he would further and permit him to enter
into the transparent chamber, that so he might hinder King Soloman
to take his well beloved wife. Mars had hardly spoken out what he
was saying, when he so perceived by the red cloathing that his old
Venus with her hot blood was still present, which now arrayed her-
self in cloth of gold. She continued not long in one shape, She
was now before his eyes in form of a man and presently after in
that of a woman. Vulcan well saw that Mars resolved even by force
to press into -the royal throne whereupon he led Mars by -the
hand, washed him from head to foot cleansed and annointed him, and
brought it so to pass that in he came. And as soon as he was
gotten into the chamber wherein the wonderful and strange changes
had appeared, Mars was seized on so as -that without the least
defence he unobservedly swooned before the well exercised Vulcans
eyes. Now after that the most mighty Hero Mars out of love of his
Venus had lost his Life and was slain by the spirit of the Dragon
with which the royal hail was 1/4 part filled, King Soloman
revealed himself in his glory, sitting upon his triumphant chariot
and peacefully reigning over the whole world. The red and silver
coloured Sea was subject to the king and willingly yielded up its
riches in his time. In surnm the King was mighty in peace. For he
as the last Monarch by the help of the old Dragon was become
Master of the beauty of Venus, and the glorious valour of Mars.
For the Dragon was tamed, and was no more as heretofore filled
with hatred, and enmity, but was above all measure gentle to the
inhabitants of this world, predicting unto them salvation riches
and health, and etc.
CHAPTER XIX
How Mars after he was subject to the King and also spoiled of his
purple garments, saught and found opportunity to revenge himself
upon Phoebus who formerly hindered him from bringing his beloved
Venus to his will, and also gave occasion to this his misfortune,
servitude and captivity, and the loss of his purple robe.
Now the crafty and revengefull Mars had observed and out of his
Watch tower wherein he was heretofore lodged had seen that the
most amiable Heliotropia had often times between whiles walked
alone at the bottom of the Hill, and amongst others for some hours
had recreated her self in beholding her own shape, and that she
made a looking-glass of a crystalline spring, and fell in love
with her own beauty. So that for very love she was like to dye,
for she burned with her own fire, which Cupid had enkindled, for
as much as he had impressed upon the heart of the most beauteous
Hellotropia the sign of love, viz, the character of Venus so
bright clear and visibly, that it shone forth like a bright
shining star between her alabaster breasts in her own shape and
true figure. This same star and figure Heliotropia had not before
this rightly observed: but now when she stood before the fountain
she espied the character. For the water which she used as a
mirror, represented the same much fairer and more glorious then it
was in it self. Wherefore the inamoured Heliotropia desirous to
lay hold of and kiss the star, her feet suddenly slipt, and behold
the fountain closed over her head, and Heliotropia lost her self
therein. This Mars had well noted and resolved to serve himself of
it against his enemy, as hereafter followeth.
CHAPTER XX
How Mars with cunning, and the relation of a wonderful adventure
concerning Heliotropla, wherein the Chymical Mystery is expressly
and visibly delineated, revengeth himself upon Phoebus, and how
Phoebus sinketh in the fountain, and becomes a ferment of the last
Monarch.
Early one morning as Phoebus came over the Sea, drawn by his
unweired Horses, and had directed his golden rays toward the Mar-
tial hill, to draw up the various coloured Vapour from the cry-
stalline fountain wherein the spirit and life of the metamorphosed
Heliotropia was hidden with which he was wont to adorn the Rainbow
with all manner of colours. Mar.s approached unto him and with his
hoarse voice said: 0 thou most illustrious Phoebus, if thou
knowest the adventure that hath happened in these parts, thou
wouldst not only be amazed at it, but with all thy might wouldst
revenge and punish the injustice which has been exercised upon the
criminal himself. For whilst the self-enamoured Heliotropia as was
her custom, was walking in this valley by the appointment of Cupid
had artificially prepared out of certain salt matters generated in
this Mountain, and at length sat down and fell asleep; suddenly
had the lewid Cupid by the instinct of Venus so wounded and
surprised her with love toward her own shaddow, that she was
forced more and more without ceasing to behold herself in this
fountain, which she so long did till at length a most heavy sleep
fell upon her. In this deep sleep Cupid over-took-the most beaut-
iful Heliotropia and resolved to purchase her most beloved
treasure while she yet slept. Having therefore done his desire he
gave her a chain of Emeralds whereat hung the portrait or figure
of his Mother Venus most artificially wrought. Now this image was
the occasion of the unfortunate chance of Heliotropia. For when
she awakened, she presently according to her ancient custom turned
her face toward the fountain, and when she perceived the strange
amiable shape of the effigies between her alabaster breasts, she
stooping toward the fountain fell in and melted away like salt in
water. And after a little while I saw Cupid at this fountain, and
foras much as I could perceive, twas he that contrived this ad-
venture, and enchanted Heliotropia in the Fountain, that hence-
forth he only and alone might enjoy her beauty at his pleasure.
For in the place where heliotropia last sat, as soon as she was
drowned there presently sprang up a wonderful flower. By this mark
Cupid understood where he might find his beloved.
Phoebus could no longer refrain but believing all that Mars had
related, on a sudden without any deliberation plunged himself into
the fountain, which had the nature like royal water in which all
red colouring stars are wont to melt away. Wherefore Phoebus also
was overpowered by the force of this water, so that he was forced
to become water, but without his prejudice. The most vindictive
(revengefull) Mars knew this right well, who had long before ex-
perienced the effect upon his Venus, and therefore to deceive
Phoebus he contrived and found out -this invention, in
consideration that heretofore Phoebus overtook his transmuted
Venus in a Rock and as is above mentioned, had his will of her at
his pleasure.
Here the gentle Reader and lover of Art ought -to take special
notice how wonderfully Mars, after that out of love -to his
imagined Venus (I say imagined for she was metamorphosed) by the
subtilty of old Vulcan with whose wife he heretofore played the
wanton and is still much inamoured of her, was punished and
reduced into servitude; did first revenge himself on Phoebus by
hindering him from the rape of Venus when he would have ravished
her and carryed the booty away himself. And it is also here
further to be observed how the Monarch of the Philosophers became
through the tincture of Venus and Mars a most general, universal
and afterwards through the Mantle of Aurora, and -the presence of
the corporal solar Phoebus was fermented, so that the otherwise
most spiritual fixed Monarch did last attain an Earthly quality
and affinity of the baser metals. This ferment is -the mean
between the metal to be tinged and the tincture that is to tinge.
After this manner I have treated through all the Planets on
purpose so to reveal the next matter, for it pleased not otherwise
my Creator. But in all places there is to be found a several
Metamorphosis of the stars, how the base, mean, worthy and most
worthy Planets by several manuals, fortunes and misfortunes, and
yet by the appointment of God were changed into the matter that is
next to us. This nearness must be recconed from the Planet, as if
it went backward. And by that means in this the first. After you
come to a running Mercury, and lastly to a thick vaporous fume,
which at all times breathes (exhales) in the mines and caverns of
the Earth.
Now the first matter of which I have so much spoken and treated,
has also her seat and habitation herein. Through this matter, if
the same be freed from its earthly moles or habitation, the Philo-
sophers have made their most blessed stone. The matter of which we
here treat, is a metallick form, but the reason why it is acc-
ounted a mineral is because the due matter wants the form. The
matter prepared desires this form no less then a woman does a
husband, both these are in their me-tallick water solved,
coagulated and fixed, as I have seen. But the thing wherein the
metallick water is concealed, has a symbol of the greater and less
world, and is only to be known by its simple signature, and the
fore-described transmutation. But for the signatures and
characters, (although I have already sufficiently declared them in
my treatise of the Magical Elements, and the annexed chymical
Alphabet) how they are to be known in and by all the Planets
before your eyes, and in a fit and due time to be brought to light
I shall hereafter (if God permit) discourse, and delineate the
matter after another fashion, and by the Philosophick compass
bring it into so fine and convenient a form through that one only
word complica, so that those who have any faculty of considering
cannot but, yea must against their own will, understand it. Even
as I in some places have been impelled by the Philosophic spirit
against my will to write too clearly. God grant thy the salvation
of thy souls be herein always minded. AMEN.
CHAPTER XXI
How Diana was by Cupid deceived and gotten with Child, and how she
was forsaken by her Nymphs because she had lost her virgin form or
crown and etc. And how by the conjunction of the uppermost Moon
with the nethermost Moon which Diana had on her head she was
changed into the Saturn of Philosophers and etc.
I even now made a falure in that whereas out of the baser metals,
as our Saturn, Jupiter, Mars, Venus; I brought forth unto the mis-
shapen common Mercury such very strange and unusual things, but
there made no mention at all of the Moon. Therefore it is fit that
I now introduce them to the most chast Diana, which for the most
part is delineated naked and uncloathed. Let the gentle Reader
always observe this -that the Planets by a peculiar contrarlety
love or hated have always diminished, exalted and bettered their
condition. For after this manner they became the best of all
metals, viz, the first matter whose virtue and mean unregarded
figure or form, I value higher then the best gold upon earth. For
in this thing is hidden the seminality of gold, of which I dare
here speak no farther. For behold the night approacheth and the
Moon comes from the East with her horns downwards and therewith
threatens my left eye, (for the Moon governs the left eye even as
the sun governs the right eye). Now to preserve the same I must
be-take my self out of the wood into the plain field, and behold
how the Moon will appear unto me, and in what figure she may and
ought to be delineated.
Now when I had gotten into the plain field, I heard behind me
the moving of a water, and I observed that it was the chast Diana
who after her virgin custom was come down to Bathe herself in this
fountain. I looked wistly upon her with singular pleasure, and
perceived that all her Nymphs by a peculiar adventure were fain
into a very deep sleep. At last I understood the occasion of this
sudden sleeping for I heard a good way of the voice of an
inamoured youth. I hid my self partly out of fear, partly out of
desire to understand the issue of the matter. Mean time whilst the
chast Queen also out of curiosity hearkened to the exceeding
delicate voice with a singular relish and attention, her eyes
thereby became dim and the longer the cloudier, so that she with
her Nymphs was overtaken with a profound sleep. And when I turned
my eyes toward Diana, by the reeds I espied a beautiful white swan
which made this so lovely melody. He had hanging at his neck the
Quiver and Darts of Cupid the God of Love and conservation of
mankind and etc. From whence I conjectured that it must needs be
Cupid himself, who plays his tricks with all flesh but could never
gain or compass any thing of Diana.
This she called Virgins Milk: For by metamorphosis she was be-
come a virgin. Afterwards she again reached him a very heavy drau-
ght which was mingled with her virgin blood, and with that also
which was hers, as a mother while she appeared in her old
unchanged shape. As soon as Cupid had drank this off, he was in a
strange taking, and after a little space he acquired all sorts of
colours, burning in the water like a fire, during which both the
clouds and Venus vanished. Cupid bent his bow and addressed his
arrow so as Diana perceived it not: Whereupon the leud Wagg
repeated his shot again, which allighted too near Diana, who
started as if she had been ready to wake. But Cupid was sorely
affraid that if he should again bend his bow and let fly, that
Diana might thereby receive some harm and be too much inflamed and
etc. He therefore hastened -to the thick reeds, and as soon as he
got into them he began again to sing after another manner.
Whereupon Diana awaked together with hir Nymphs, but the Nymphs
being awake knew not Diana who stood before their eyes, for the
hot Cupid in shooting had beaten of and shattering in pieces her
Virgin Luriary crown, and Diana too by the affright and smarting
of the fiery dart of Cupid had gotten a red and discoloured face,
whereupon she was not known by her Nymphs, which afterwards went
up and down the woods to seek their Goddess. Diana thought and
well saw that some trick was put upon her, but knew not what was
done to her until at length she beheld her shaddow in the water
whereupon she wept and lamented uncessantly, cursing the fountain
in which this happened to her and others beside had before been
beguiled. Now although Diana stood on the water in a very
afflicted condition, and being robbed of all joy, was thinking of
means and ways for her rescue, yet it was her highest consolation
that unknown of her own she might yet a sufficient time continue
in the same place. Mean while she observed the most beaute6us
Swan, and thought to herself, surely this must be some God? Who
spoiled . me of my virginity, and gotten me with child. Whereupon
she made as if she were sleepy, and lying down just in the same
place where she lay before, she famed as if she were fain asleep.
The Swan observing not what Diana had in her heart, approached to
her as heretofore, at which Diana took fast hold of the Swan, but
he covered her eyes with his wings not willing to let his face be
seen. But Diana holding him so fast that he could not escape, the
Swan changed himself into his true shape, and said: My beloved
Queen, I am not come to afflict or disgrace thee, but to honour
and glorify thee so that thou shalt bear solary children. For thy
predestination is such that the stately hot sun shall be derided,
humbled and exiled by -the cold earthly Moon. Thou and thy
children shall shine clearer then the Sun himself when he stood in
his highest lustre. The Sun vouchsafed that foolish request of
Phaeton, and while Phaeton rode about with him they came too near
the world and burnt up the world, and all that dwelt therein, and
I also am a child, of the world, and now by the help of my
transformed Virgin-Mother, the cause of the most high wonder and
its multiplication. And behold said he further, the world is at
present without comeliness and outward ornament, but thou and thy
children, which shall be born out of my hot blood which I also
have received of my Mother, shall have an heavenly lustre and an
earthly glittering, and also a particular heavy spirit, shall fill
the heaven and be cloathed with the beauty of the earth. To that
end shall thy head hence forward be adorned with an imperial
crown, and the world shall be delivered into thy hands. Now when
thou and thy children shall be born upon the Solary triumphal
chariot, and ridest about the whole world, and by thy moderation
fittest and promotest it to all kinds of births, thou shalt be put
in mind by the character of the world, which to that end thou hast
in thy hands, to span the world. The Sun which thou carriest on
thy chariot shall shine through thee, and thou shall impart thy
bright fire to the sun himself. Now when he had said this, he
gave. his Bride a fresh kiss, whereupon she forgot herself,
letting loose her hands which by her fast grasping were already
strained, and Cupid fled upwards on high, leaving to Diana for a
pledge his fiery enamoured heart.
Now Diana surely knew of whom she was gotten with child, but
still was in doubt of Cupids promise: For she well knew that
lovers do some times promise such things as are impossible for
them to perform. With these and the like contrary thoughts she
tormented herself, and then cast her eyes upward, and then again
turned them to the fountain, and when she had espied her
appearance therein, she beheld that the Moon that formerly stood
on her head, did again stand in its place, but it was all guilded
over, and the Moon which shone in heaven shone down from above
into the water, and both the Moons each with its horns made a
pleasant well proportioned conjunction in form of a round fiery
globe, out of which grew the Tree which bore the fruit of Eternal
life; And I heard a voice from heaven which said unto me: This
Tree is called the Tree of Salvation, the Tree of recovery of
Eternal Life: The spiritual water which was brought out of it is
called the spirit and water of life, a living fountain and etc.
Wherefore take heed that thou neither comest too near nor viola-
test either this Tree or yet the Earth. Now when I well understood
this, I turned mine eyes to the circle out of which this Tree in
my sight so suddenly grew up; and I beheld that it was incompassed
with a golden crown wherein all sorts of costly solary stones were
set, amongst which the Martial Ruby, and the venereal Emerald had
the pre-eminence; for by their Virtue Diana was to bear solary
children, and to accomplish her predestination as is hereafter to
be read.
CHAPTER XXII
How Diana after that she was as is above mentioned turned into the
first matter being gotten with child by Cupid, brought into the
world a Salary birth.
When Diana observed the time of her delivery grew nigh she gave
a loud shriek, and there went a fiery lightning out of her mouth,
and she lost herself so that I could see nothing more but the
fore-mentioned fiery globe, whereon grew the ensign of Salvation,
which instead of a rail was incompassed with a golden Crown, until
at length the heaven became very bright and clear through the
lustre which Cupid brought with him out of the Cabinet and ware-
house of his Mother. Herewith he adorned his beloved Goddess, and
carried her on the Chariot of Phaeton, where she brought forth a
new Solary offspring, that was so like the Mother that one could
not well be known from the other. Unto this new birth were given
the Sun in the right hand and the Moon in -the left, for he had
power to burn up the world, to quench and afterward to make it
fruitful. For these reasons he had the cold moist Moon and the
warm dry Sun as two opposite qualities, in both his hands, thereby
to signify that gold and silver do proceed from him. This birth
was in form, bigness and figure, weight and lightness comparable
to the whole world, for never was there found a greater and more
glorious offspring upon earth.
To this regent of heavenly light and earthly salvation the glory
of Mercury joined itself, bringing with it exceeding large wings,
which by the venereal property and the hardened lye of the briny
Ocean was exalted into a very beautiful white colour, sparkling
clearer then the light itself, which shined in the left hand of
the new born saviour. This so exceedingly precious offering
Mercury by command of Jupiter and all the Planets brought,
requesting help and assistance in the name of them all, for they
were hardly handled and injured by their earthly enemies and were
subjected to corruption. But the cause of their mortality was
their own contrary quality and the discord of the three
principles, whereupon they could never be secure in their state
unless -the most high, who with fire and cold changeth, conserveth
and filleth to all kinds of births, the world and all that therein
is according to his will, would take their part, and erect a true
harmony in them, and by this means they might withstand their
enemies. With these wings which mercury had brought as an
offering, the redeemer (assister) of the Planets was very well
appeased. He could with the same notwithstanding his exceeding
great and mighty weight, like a spirit through Vulcan mount i~ip
on high. Tn his ascending there was perceived in his mouth a
wonderful Balsam, which proceeded from him through the pores in
form of an oil. And this by the wise and understanding in Physick
was with most profound reverence gathered up as an holy thing. Of
this blessed, coagulated, essentialized, purified and incered oil,
Mercury as soon as he had layed down his commission brought with
him for every Planet as much as was needful. And when they by
direction of the ordained receipt which was fastened upon every
little glass, had used the said oil, they were sensible of their
own melioration in seasonable time, but they imagined they should
presently without any precedent ablution of original sin and
imperfection which cleaves to them, as it were all in the
innermost depth of their centre, arise and appear in their former
complete state of innocency and perfection.
Wherefore it was declared unto them, and I know not from whom,
-thus spoken: The time is not yet come that through -the most high
in a moment the weak and imperfect can pass into its highest
perfection, but the spirit only endeavoureth, in the virtue of its
magnetical nature to mix it self with the corporeal Planets and by
the power of their own souls to carry them gradually till at
length they arrive to the highest degree and equality. In which
equality all the Planets finish their course namely in the point
of the heart of the Lyon, in which very place nature hath erected
a golden Column, whereon stand these words written in the Arabick,
Hebrew and many other Languages: Go no further, here nature rests
in the mineral Kingdom, here let the Traveller stop, and the
Artist make haste and etc.
CHAPTER XXIII
How Phoebus fell down backward from the Chariot, How Pluto
assalted him with his hellish poison, and how he was turned into a
three-headed worm. Also how his brethren forsook him and delivered
him to Vulcan and etc.
After I had heard all this there arose a very terrible voice out
of the midst of heaven, and the voice was the voice of one that
judgeth and pronounceth sentence, the signification whereof was
this. God resisteth the proud, hardly shall the righteous be
saved, where shall the wicked appear. Hereupon the Sun was
darkened and fell backward into a deep fountain, which wanteth no
fire and Pluto fell upon him bringing with him the venom of the
hellish Cerberus; he had in his left hand a leathern bag filled
with all sorts of deadly stinking powders upon which was written
Dragon and Stone-serpent powder. Mix them and let them flow and
etc. With the forementioned powder Phoebus in exile was nourished
and the food went to the Soul of him, his living spirit departed
from him and his former beautiful form was no more present. He was
so changed by the forementioned meat and fiery drink that his own
brethren knew him not, stood a far off and beheld him as a
despised worm lying on the earth. And the worm which they saw,
had before and on him the end, and also in the middle an head.
These heads according which was to outward appearance were not
like one another, for the fore-most had its original of Sulphur,
the hindermost of Vitriol and the middlemost of Mercury. This
middlemost head had eyes before and behind and looked with
singular attention upon the foremost and hindermost head, and out
of its ears went two hands which laboured to bring the hindermost
and first head together. But there came an angel named Uriel who
emptied a fiery Vial upon the middle head so that it was fain to
quit the fore-most and hindermost head and fly into the Air. For
there grew wings out of the place where the hands stood, which
would not for-sake the Sulphur and the Salt. These wings bore the
middle part into its own mercurial kingdom, from whence it shall
again return over -the glassen Sea to enter upon its office, and
then will the most high send forth his spirit and unite both the
forsaken solary parts viz. Sulphur and Salt which were changed
into a worm, with itself in the most subtile parts. The Ten Lepers
shall obtain of his hands the divine Nector, and all thereby be
cured and his brethren who know him not shall fall down and wor-
ship him. His brethren heard this voice ascending out of a deep
fountain, and therefore said Wo Wo to us if our Brother be lord
over us, he will remember all since we forsook him in his greatest
necessity, and afforded him no Brotherly assistance when Diana by
the help of Cupid, chased him out of his kingdom and etc. his hand
will be always hard against us. Therefore it should be my counsel
said the blood thirsty Mars to rid our Brother Phoebus out of the
world and so we are secure of him. But Jupiter said let us not
soil our hands on him, i-t is better that we deliver him to his
eldest Brother the double-armed Saturn who has power to free him
and also to retian him. Whereupon he was delivered to Saturn who
by the instigation of Vulcan cruly tormented him, would fain have
stript him of his purple mantle, but it would not succeed, where-
fore the ravening Saturn was enraged, returned again to Phoebus,
and said thou shalt and must whither thou wilt or no accomplish my
will, it is fit that first of all without any excuse thou pay me
thy turn-key-fee, and hangmans wages, but whither thou dyest or
livest is alike to me, I must in both cases be the better for
thee. Whilst Saturn was thus harrassing the wretched Sun the most
high regarded him with gracious eyes, and the Sentence was so
lenified that Phoebus should not die, he be banished the land, and
because he burnt up the world, for an Eternal memorial receive a
brand-mark. Wherefore Saturn brought the brand-iron to the place
wherein execution was done, and impressed it hot as it was upon
the patient Sun, commanding him to avoid the bounds of the
kingdom, and always to cloathe himself with a grey coat. For he
knew now no more any thing of high-mindedness was reduced as it
were to nothing by humility; seeing he was made of nothing, he had
taken on himself the form of the first matter, seeing whereas
otherwise he was the last matter of all the Planets. In sum the
last is become the first like as the first became the last, for
they both proceed from one, and also both hasten to and aim at
one, wherefore one may be turned into the other.
CHAPTER XXIV
How Phoebus came into AEgypt and was chosen king, and how his
brethren as was prophesied, humbled themselves before him, and how
Phoebus changes his name and nameth himself the revived Cross-
bearer.
After Phoebus had duely expiated his sins, envious fortune was
forced to forbear his tricks, and he who likely might otherwise
have easily despaired constantly thought on the good promise
touching his person, and thus with a good courage went continually
forward towards Sunset, and came into a wilderness wherein dwelled
many learned pious Monks who always imployed their mind in the
search of the mystery of nature, and thus by the knowledge of the
temporal, so much the better to understand and more inflamedly to
love the Eternal indestructible things. These expected the coming
of the holy Ghost who might impart the knowledge to them. And
whilst they were once gathered into one, they saw Phoebus in his
present form coming afar of who bare up the Cross upright upon the
forehead of his face. When they saw him they thought to
themselves, this must needs be an holy man, and lover of God, who
is so martyred for the name of Christ, and has imposed upon
himself openly to bear about the mark of his Redeemer all the days
of his life. Wherefore they all made haste unto Phoebus, and after
they had well interrogated him, they understood that there must
needs be some great mystery comprehended in this adventure, in-
treating Phoebus to stay with them during the time of his life,
and fundamentally to inform them of his adventures. This he
promised readily and did as they requested and instructed and
taught them the mysteries of nature, and he faithfully revealed
unto them whatsoever was in the closet of nature which hath its
being in the centre of the world. But they were all fain to make a
vow that they would reveal these communicated mysteries to no man.
Here fortune changed herself and Phoebus changed his name, nemeing
himself the revived Cross-bearer. None whilst the revived Cross-
bearer conversed in this world and quartered amongst the wise,
they became from day to day more prudent and mighty, so that the
Princes and all the kings of the earth stood in fear of them. And
that they might all have one head and lord, they elected the
revived Cross-bearer their King by inheritance and guarded him so
well that no stranger without their fore knowledge and will might
see him: For they feared least so mighty a Monarch might be craft
be surprised and taken from them, or otherwise be injured.
During the time that the revived Cross-bearer was King in AEgypt
there arose a terrible earth-quake, so that the whole world was
astonished thereat; yea all mines and caves of the earth fell to-
gether, and the Catarrhacts of the world being stopped took
another issue, from whence arose great necessity and affliction
amongst the Mountain-Gods, and a miserable lamentation was heard
amongst the Planets. For the court of Saturn was filled with an
inexhaustible multitude of Waters: The Palace of Mars and Venus
was so layed waste that the place where they were, could not be
found. The Caves and Grottos together with the Bath wherein Diana
sojourned, were faln together. And the spring soaked up Mercury
toward -the South, and Jupiter toward the west had suffered the
most daniniage, Well knowing that they deserved such punishment in
regard of their Brother Phoebus, they all came to confession and
said unammously, had we then afforded help and assistance to our
Brother the Sun when Cupid by Diana, otherwise unfortunate, chased
him from his throne, he might now have had power and money to
build up the Palaces, and to cause our shattered Members to be
cured. During the lamentation Mercury stood upright on high on his
feet, and said: Dear brethren, there is a most mighty King chosen
in AEgypt whose wealth and understanding famed all the world over.
The same is above all measure liberal and neighbourly, wherefore I
counsel you to dispatch me with my Brother Saturn thither. For I
know when he shall see the old man halting thus pittifully, he
will then demand, who is this honest reverend man? To whom I will
then answer: Most invincible, most understanding and most gracious
king, this old man is my true brother, there are yet two brethren
and one sister beside, who incompassed with sadness stayed behind,
which cannot yet bear thy countenance, and etc. All that Mercury
proposed to his brethren in the aforesaid manner pleased them al-
together very well; wherefore mercury with Saturn must needs
undertake the journey. Now when they came into AEgypt -the wise
men of the land would not permit them -to go unto the King, until
at length the King out of his chamber espied the shape of.
Mercury, and caused enquiry to be made what they both had to do at
Court, and when the King understood that they were both come a
great way to speak with him, there was therefore presently
audience vouchsafed to both the envoys. Mercury had his Scepter
adorned with the Serpents in his right hand, and stept foremost in
and making his due reverence with bended knees, said: Most mighty
and most intelligent King, we are five Brethren and two sisters,
all born of a most powerful royal Mother which heretofore had the
whole world in her power whence we also bear in the arms a
character of the world, and etc. But the Mother so ordained yet
the most beautiful of us should possess the glory and pride of the
kingdom with this proviso, that Diana at her pleasure might chose
a royal seat for herself in the four corners of the Kingdom, the,
rest of us have obtained our inheritance in the valleys and caves
of the hills under the earth.
At this the King laughed and looked wistly upon Saturn, imagin-
ing the old man would know him, and call to mind how he formerly
tormented him, when he was called Phoebus, by the contrivance of
Cupid was beaten from the Salary triumphal Chariot, chased out of
his own kingdom and delivered up to this Saturn as is more largely
mentioned above. But the old Saturn not daring, an evil conscience
urging him, -to behold the King, the King commanded him to declare
his own harms. Whereupon Saturn retreated back and said: I am but
a dead man, this most mighty King is my own Brother, I was
formerly his Executioner, I know him by the sign of the Cross, and
the brandmark. Now it is fulfilled that we should all worship him.
Now when the King had well viewed them together he demanded
where their sister Diana, and the Sun stayed. Then answered the
just Jupiter, and said (for he and those who had stayed behind,
did not altogether know the King as Mercury and Saturn did). Most
gracious King, Phoebus in regard of a certain crime and misfortune
which proceeded from him, by the providence of the most high
Creator of Heaven and Earth was condemned to the fire. But Vulcan,
though assisted by Saturn was not able sufficiently to quell him
without Plutos Recepe. They indeed plagued and Martyred Phoebus,
that at last they grew weary themselves; whereupon the sentence
was mitigated, and the same who was condemned to death, was only
thrust out of his kingdom and brand-marked, and as we understand
he passed over Sea toward the Sunset, and by a storm the ship was
beaten to pieces against a Rock, and the wild Savages took him and
burnt him alive in that fire which proceeds out of the Mountain
Aetna. Diana the Earthly Moon our dear sister was in her sleep
gotten with child by Cupid, and carried up to heaven, and with her
kindred is become immortal, and that taken upon her the place of
the Sun. Now we had imagined by this Saturn they Brother to
inherit the Earthly kingdom, but it will not succeed with us; thy
fortune subsists in the highest misfortune. Saturn is -the greater
in fortune, through him we must pass into the emendation and
happiness.
The King was pleased with the discourse and wisdom of Jupiter
above them all, and said: The wickedness which ye executed upon
your Brother Phoebus sprung from the haughtiness of you all. For
you indeavoured to hinder and frustrate the providence of God, and
the promises made to your Brother, and yet by your own sinister
action the predestination of your Brother was promoted. For behold
all of ye. I your Brother Phoebus am at present through my own
backward fall and by divine providence to all your profits turned
into the true first matter and saturn of the Philosophers, whom
hitherto ye have not known. What think ye now, do ye imagine that
your wickedness may remain unpunished. No by no means. I have
sworn that I would drink the blood of my Brother and Sister. For
my sister Venus was mast guilty of, and -the occasion of Dianas
first getting with child, and that she was after qualified to
bring forth in my Chariot, a salary Heir, who drove me and thrust
me out of my Kingdom whilst I was yet Phoebus: But at present I am
a wonder above all wonders. And as he was about to explain himself
he was changed before their eyes, as is to be read in the
following chapter.
CHAPTER XV
How the revived Cross-bearer shewed himself in his former shape
when Pluto with the Hellish Venom turned him into a three-headed
worm, and how Vulcan delivered him from his curse and original
sin, and annointed him with -the blessed oil which Mercury brought
with him for the health of his Brethren, and inflamed him through
the blood of Mars and Venus, so that he was reduced into a true
universal most general Medicine.
Now after that all the colours were passed, and a brownish red
mass did unchangeably rest alone in the bottom of the glass, then
the revived Crass-bearer appeared in his banished shape, he opened
the median vein of Mars and Venus, this blood he drank of, whereby
his wrath was mitigated.
The most blood thirsty Mars was sensible of his brothers grace,
and whereas he (Mars) before this always s-trove against the fire,
and with fiery sparks assaulted Vulcan who hammered him, he gave
himself so humble and gentle under the hammer like the melted
common Saturn, he was inwardly and outwardly arrayed through and
through in cloth of Gold. Jupiter, Saturn, and Mercury all eat of
the golden food with their Brother set before them, and thereupon
forgot all the pains they had undergone during their former life,
they became by the forementioned food immortal as long as they
forbear unripe grapes and the true Magic Elements and whereof may
be further read in its place in the treatise of the Magical
Elements.
CHAPTER XXVI
How Saturn being about to try whether his brethren were in truth
amended and turned into the Sun, was by the command of the Emper-
our annainted, and in respect of the exuberant medicine tinged his
Brother Jupiter into the Sun and etc.
When the Saturn of the vulgar saw all this, before his eyes, his
cold frozen heart burned with new envy like fire, so he went out
and chid his brethren for their folly because -they were so easily
credulous, saying it was a sophistication, and praying Vulcan far
experiment sake to send one of his Brothers to be examined who had
given out that he had experienced transmutation in his own proper
body. Whilst he was requesting this with impatiency, I heard a
voice out of the paint of the crown of the Emperaus saying: Be it
so, Be it so. Whereupon Vulcan stept forward took hold of Saturn
and placed him upon the Hellish Throne of Pluto in an inundation
of fire, and when he was enkindled Vulcan would have also brought
them thither of whom Saturn was in doubt in respect of the
transmutation, to try whether in truth they could stand out in the
examination. But he who already had shown grace to Mars and Venus
gave Vulcan a drop of his blood, with command that he should
privitely laud and annoyst Saturn who expected his brother in the
midst of the fire. This Vulcan accomplished as he was commanded,
and as soon as he had brought it near Saturn, the Balsam touched
and moved the heart of old Saturn, and he was changed not only
into the best gold but he had also retained with him from the,
abounding medicine a tinging property and power, by virtue whereof
even the rest of the imperfect Metals can attain and be reduced to
perfection as hereafter may be read.
CHAPTERXXVII
How the two worlds strive one against another,and out of them as
out Of two contrary natures the spirit of Mercury is made. And how
the Lunary world is provoked to the fight by Neptune and other-
wise, and so qualified to the contention, and etc.
CHAPTER XXVIII
How the Lunary glittering light is exalted and clarified, and how
the same became an Hydra and an Eagle, and also how thereby the
world gave up its spirit which appeared in the shape of a very
heavy mist or cloud.
Pluto had this Process long under his hands, could not manage
it, called Vulcan, asked advice of him, who said: That which God
by such a wonderful adventure hath joined together, that let no
man separate but rather promote it, wherefore they shall be one;
The above mentioned Smaragdine Crystal and -the glittering Light
which by -the help of Vulcan was barn out of the Abyss, aught to
be locked up in a royal Transparent Hall, where they must so long
continue, till it be learned what thy Gods are resolved by such
and adventure to Effect.
After that it was thus concluded (shut up) the three above men-
tioned spheres said. Let there be made a powder, Let there be made
a fire, Let there be made an Exhalation, And when all was still
Vulcan made fire under the Chamber and behold a white beast with
two horns exalted it self from the Earth towards heaven, whose
wings were twa clouds, One proceeded out of the Sea, the other out
of a sower mineral juice and served the horned beast through their
innermost ability. The clouds were the food of this beast of which
the beast ate so long until it became a very poisonous white
Hydra. And when Vulcan a fresh and f or the third time fed the
Hydra with the offering of Neptune and Venus, the warm then
changed it self, and it became a bird which with its wings could
cover the whale world. It had its Talons like an Eagle far wide
asunder and bit with its beak upon the Pavement, and with its
talons seized on the world from the sunrising and sunsetting. And
the world together with this flying venomous beast hid it self
before my eyes so that I could see no more but only a very heavy
thick vapour. This moved it self by the benefit of Vulcan to climb
on high but the heaven hindered this so that it was of necessity
forced to pass sideways into the next cave, which had no issue but
the Entrance well served it to go out at and etc.
CHAPTER XIX
How out of the above mentioned cloud the Philosophic Virgin is
born, and how she distributes her milk and blood for the comfort
of the needy. And also how to bring the soul into the Metallick
body, namely salt, and etc.
CHAPTER XXX
How the Mother of Nature committed to the Virgin her Children, and
how the Lion and his Sister are not to be overcome but only by the
double infernal thunder.
For this mother of nature was very well acquainted with the above
mentioned Virgin, notwithstanding that she was changed into a She-
wolf. She discoursed also with me, and said not the outward but
the inward is that which the Artist aught to seek. The same
further said this, which is well to be taken notice of: My Virgins
are learing Wolves, Dragons and Serpents, and etc. my Son is a
roaring Lyon. He hath sucked the breasts of his Sister, and is
thence become so fiery and pugnacious that no beast upon earth can
overcome him except the double infernal Thunder with the substance
and durability of Bacchus came too near him. Thereby will this my
son and daughter loose all their powers, and take their flight to
me as their Mother, and etc.
After I had -thus prayed, the heaven grew stormy and Jupiter
spake from far. Two contrary things are known by last and small,
when two contrary spirits fight one with another then arises a
great tumult in the circumjacent Air.
CHAPTER XXXI
How Bacchus and Vulcan jeered the Laborant; How nature teacheth
him to offer unto Bacchus, and how the Lyon having thrice
conquered, at length fighting with his father was overcome.
A MEMENTO
Courteous Reader,
But thou most politic black fox with thy Hypocrisy and crafty
inquisiOn stand a far off, stay till roasted pigons fly into thy
mouth, and thou wilt stand to the end of the world, there where
thy unbelief, because thou hast known the good and out of laziness
hast neglected to effect it, shall condemn thee. But I thank the
most high who hath imparted his grace to me and commanded me -thus
to write. Wherefore I thank him and none other, neither secular or
spiritual, and say from the bottom of my heart. Glory be to God
above who governs the stars of Heaven.
THE END