THE
SECOND PART
OF THE
Mineral Work.
A Preface to the Reader.
Courteous Reader,
Whereas in a former little Book, lately by me published, I mentioned this little Tract of the Generation of Metals, and through want of time, could not hitherto make it publick, although earnestly desired by men of the meanest and highest condition: I have now determined to spare so much time from my other Imployments, as to do this Work for the publick good, no ways doubting, but that (although this my opinion of the Generation of Metals, doth not agree with all the Philosophers) yet will it get credit from, and the assent of not a few quick-sighted men.
That which I here declare, I do not exhibit it with flattering words, or many circumstances, or the testimonies of other Writings, but with a naked and genuin simplicity; for which very cause I would not make this little Tract too prolix, but have unfolded my mind with the most Compendious stile that I could. But let none think that I endeavour to weaken and nullifie the Opinions of other men concerning the Generations of Metals, and obtrude mine in the World, no, not in the least: I leave to every man his free will, and the Liberty of viewing others, who have written Monuments of this thing, and of comparing of them with my writings, that he may evidently perceive which of the two Corresponds most with Nature and Truth: I aim not at any Honour hereby, as if I were wiser than the common sort: Nor do I reap any benefit by making this little Book, but ’tis done only for this end and purpose, That (because I have formerly written of Metalline things, and have also made mention of this little Tract of the Birth and Nativity of them) I may give light unto my Writings, and render them more easie to be understood; for I should most bitterly suffer, if but one only should be lead into errour by my Writings, but I trust that the light is springing up unto many, by the guidance whereof they will more cautiously handle than hitherto they have done. Let the Benign and Merciful God, our Father of all things, of whose Wonders the Heaven and Earth are full, give unto His poor needy Children that which may tend to the Glory of His most holy Name, and to our health.