THE Catholic Medicine, AND Sovereign Healer. Rectifying and Assisting the Depraved Functions, of Infirm and Diseased Bodies; for Reducing and Curing, in all Cases. Enabling thereby to Digest, Expectorate, Transpire, Open, Dissolve, Discuss, Evacuate, Cleanse, Purify, Alloy, Ease, Heal, Strengthen, and Restore; the Decayed Parts, of Unsound and Distempered Bodies. Confirmed by Demonstrations of Fact; in Eminent Cures performed. Communicated to the World, as the most Happy, Comprehensive Expedient; Preventive and Curative; against the Diseases of Humane Nature.  
By a Strrict EXAMINER of MEDICAL ART.  Deus Omnipotens Creavit, Dictavit, & Benedixit; Medicus fecit; idem ac suo Corpore, aliisque perituris, feliciter probavit: Cujus effecta mirabilia, notatu maxime digna; in landem Creatoris; nec non creaturae salutem; è tenebris Mundo afful●…erunt. 
LONDON, Printed by J. Gain; for R. Horn at the South Entrance of the Royal-Exchange: T. Basset, at the George in Fleetstreet: and C. Blount at Charing-Cross: Booksellers. 1684.   

THE CATHOLIC MEDICINE. AND Sovereign Healer, etc.  
'TIS Proverbially said, That a Fool's Bolt is soon shot: And it is as certain a Character of the Wise and Discreet; to suspend their Judgement or Censure upon any thing; until deliberate Examination, and Inquiry into the Matter: lest afterwards they should recant, and correct their Mistake, with a Non putâram—  
There are Wonders in Nature; and sometimes, wonderful Things produced by Art or Accident; that scarce any Age passeth, without some insignal Discovery; as the Records of History sufficiently testify. Gunpowder, that stupendious thundering Destroyer was the Wonder of that Age which produced it; and few believed the Report, but such as heard and saw: and a Universal Preservative, or Catholic Curing Medicine, may happily be the Prodigy of our present Time; and perhaps alike Incredible to the World; except only to Such, as have experimented, or seen the various great Effects of its previaling Power; against humane Infirmities, and dangerous contumacious Diseases.  
In the Writings of some Philosophers and Physicians, Men esteemed and famed in their Times, for Learning; I find a Universal Medicine mentioned by them, and strongly affirmed for a real Truth; where also both the Matter and Process of Preparation are darkly hinted; to put Learned Ingenuity upon the Search, and diligent Trials to purchase it. If such a rare Medicine were attainable in those days; there is a greater probability for the gaining of it now; Knowledge generally since, arriving to a higher pitch; accumulating by daily Experience, and study for Improvements by Industrious Wits. If such a Jewel was found, and since lost again; or concealed, as not to appear in the World for public Use; I Judge it might be so in favour to the Medical Art, and the Professors thereof; lest the stately Fabric of this Learned Science be ruined thereby, and the Professors become almost Useless, or of little Worth: for such a general Comprehensive Medicine, applying fitly to the most, if not all Cases; is easily managed without the help of a Physician. If so, it may be, as not irrational to suppose (and Interest governs the World) we may the less wonder, that a Catholic or Universal Medicine is now a Stranger in the World: and the Wonder is not so great, if such a thing do appear in the World again; since it is the Purchase of Learned Labour; or the Fortunate Free Gift of some Casual Experiment; both which hath furnished Mankind with great Discoveries, and wonderful Rarities that are now grown Common.  
Touching the possibility and probability of a Catholic Medicine: Nature is endowed or furnished, with Catholic or Universal Food; why not with Catholic Physic? Water was the Universal Drink of the World, so given, and so used, in the Primitive Age; for all Constitutions, Ages, and both Sexes: and Bread is Catholic Food, agreeable to humane Nature, and used by People of all sorts. If Nature can convert one simple Meat to divers Uses, in different parts of the Body; why can she not be Helped and Cured in those various Parts, by one single supreme Medicine? Can Nature frame such a curious Contrivance as Man's Body, of Bread and Water; and if we allow a piece of Flesh too, cannot she as easily mend this Machine, when out of Order, with an exquisite single Medicine, composed of a few choice Ingredients, well Prepared, congruously associated and fitted for her Use?  
But Diseases, you'll say, are various, and sometimes contrary to each other. Some Bodies require Binding, others loosening; some Heating, others Cooling, etc. And one Medicine cannot work contrary Effects. I answer in short; The same Hand and Hammer that can draw a Nail out, can drive a Nail in; and say no more.  
If Nature be so curious an Architect, or Worker, as we said before; (far beyond all Artists, who are but her Apes) she can probably with one chosen Instrument, or well contrived Medicine, perform several Works therewith; using it as she pleaseth, to effect what she stands in need of: Nature is a dextrous Agent, and can do wonderfully for her Help, with the Assistance of a Sovereign Remedy. Can Humane Nature, of Bread and Water, make Chyle, Blood, Nervous Juice, sperm, and Milk; various Liquors for diver Uses, of the same Alimental Matter? Can this Nature make Blood here, Flesh there, and Bones in an other place of the same Food? Can she distribute this Nutrimental Matter, into all parts of the Body, and so transmute or alter, as to be a fit and convenient Supply and Support of the several Members, differing in Office, Form, and Temperature: Brain, Heart, Lungs, Liver, Spleen, Reins, etc. Working thus variously and wonderfully upon the same Substance or Matter, and converting it how she pleaseth, for her necessary Uses? Then (a majore) if she can do the greater, probably, and more easily the lesser: Can she not relieve herself, Diseased (impeded and disturbed in her proper usual Course) by the help of a generous brave Medicine, well designed and composed for her general Use? Can she not convey this Medical Instrument into all Parts, to set them right? Probably, as well by a single Medicine, as by many; and perhaps better: If this Medicine be complete and commodious for her Management; such an one as is pliable and obedient to her Command, yielding like Wax, to any Impression, and serving to any Purpose she shall employ it: If she can work so variously with a simple nourishing Juice, as Chyle; why not then as variously with a single Curing Medicine? If Nature can maintain and feed all parts of the Body with one sort of Food; then probably, and very reasonably, she may Mend or Cure all those Parts with one Medicine; provided it be so form and fitted, of that Latitude as will answer all her Operations.  
I perceive now, that Wonders are wrought in Man's Body every day; and being in Health: but we cannot so easily believe Wonders to be wrought by a Medicine in Sickness. If Nature can do Wonders with Aliment, as likely it is, she can do Wonders with Medicament. Why should we then, be so hard to believe the Curing Wonder, and doubt not at all in the Feeding or Nourishing Wonder? But you will say, That Aliment is flexible, and obedient to the power of Nature, who easily converts it to divers Uses. And I say, if you can make a Medicine thus pliable, and yielding to the power of Nature; 'tis possible then, you may make it thus generally useful for Curing.  
I understand now the possibility to be very fair and reasonable on Nature's side; that she can manage a Catholic Medicine very well, to serve all her Designs and Purposes for Curing, if she had but such an Instrument to act with: but the possibility of designing, forming, and making this Catholic Instrument, lies not so easy and probable on the physician's side: it is like to fail on his part, he knows not how, nor which way to go about it; SUPERAT CAPTUM. Nature is willing to receive ready to operate with such an Expedient, as a Catholic Medicine, if you had it to give her.  
Huc usque deventum est: So far, so good: we are now got half way through this hard knotty Business, we only want a Physician to go through the other half, to perform the Medicine: but now I remember, making of Medicines is the Apothecary's Business, and the Doctor only prescribes what, and how it must be made: But the Catholic Medicine will not be made after that manner, the Apothecary-Doctor is not like to do the Business, so long as he makes Medicines by guess, with Pen and Ink upon a piece of Paper only: he must take a little more pains than in reading and writing: this is no Book Medicine; he must operate in the Laboratory too, if ever he will gain the Catholic Medicine. We must find out another, that is long experienced in the Preparation of Medicines, a diligent Operator, striving earnestly to purchase something Excellent, by various Trials and Experiments beyond. Book Reading; such a Man may happily find out this great Arcanum.  
Perhaps you will say, there have been such Seeking Men, that have not found what they sought and laboured after: can you tell us how, or which way they must go about it, that they may not seek longer in vain?  
I'll tell you as I was told, and will put you into the same Path, that led the Author hereof to this hidden Treasure. Nature Corroborate est morborum medicatrix. This is the way that leads to the Catholic Medicine, follow the Track, be guided by this Dictate, and God speed you— This golden Saying, Nature Corrchorata— were the words of Helmont; and Hypocrates hinted the same many hundred years before him. Nature strengthened and assisted, is the Curer of Diseases.  
Nature is Medicatrix, and Medicine is Instrumentum: 'tis Nature that heals primariò & immediatè Medicine Cures reinotè & instrumentaliter; as an Instrument that Nature useth to work by: for except Nature doth take hold of, and close with this Instrument, to exercise it for her Help, performing some Operation therewith, in order to Curing; else Medicine is given in vain, and effects nothing: and this we may believe, that no Medicine directs itself here or there in the Body; but Nature (which is the Life) disposeth of it to this part, or that, as she stands in need, conveying both Nutriment and Medicament at her pleasure; at least, to her power; and there is nopower else.  
If Nature be Medicatrix, and Medicine is only Assistant; then, invita Natura. Nature refusing ot act with the Medicine, no good can be done: nor can the best Food give Nourishment to the Body, if Nature doth not convert it to the proper Use and Intention. If so, then Medicine ought to be such as must not disgust, not disturb her, that she may readily receive and act therewith cheerfully.  
If Nature be Medicatrix, the Curer of all Diseases, then doubtless she knows best where the Disease lies, and which way she must be helped: and no Physician is so sharp sighted, to see where; nor so discerning, to know what, is most expedient and proper for Relief; but many times, instead of Helping, he does Hurt, mistaking the Case; rather troubling, than assisting or relieving, by forcing a wrong Operation, or promoting the Right with a Bad Medicine: and better it is to do nothing, than such injurious meddling: Experience tells us, that many a sick Person hath been made worse by Medicines; Naeture more perplexed, and Diseases exasperated thereby. Now here lies the Excellency of the Catholic Medicine, that it doth not constrain, or force Nature to any particular Operation, but is fit for any, and promotes that which Nature elects ror her Relief. By this you may perceive the difference between a Common Medicine, and a Catholic: Other Medicines constrains Nature to such, or such a particular Operation; which if the Case doth not require it, but Nature would act another way, more advantageous, you then contend with, and thwart Nature, and instead of Helping, you offer Violence and Injure her; that Medicine is as another Disease, added to what she complained of before; and Nature struggles with this Cross Medicine, and doth not comply with the Operation, to effect any Good: and this is easy to be discerned oftentimes upon a Medicine given; instead of an Alloy and Mitigation, the Diseased Person complains more, Nature being unwilling to go that way as the Medicine compels; the Consequents then must needs be ill, and the physician's Designment frustrated.  
Natura Corroborata— Is that the way to the Catholic Medicine? And is that the way to effect Cures? Then you must be very careful and wary, that you do not debilitate Nature by irksome, nauseous, exhausting, painful Medicines: and if so, than a great many are much out of the way, whose Medicines and Methods enfeeble Nature by large Exhaustions, and tyering-Medicines, that overload, fret, and grieve Nature, not contributing to her strengthening and assistance, but the contrary.  
There are three sorts of Unlucky Medicines? the one ill composed, or associated, and incongruous of Composition, not agreeing within itself. The second, are such, whose Ingredients, or the Preparation of them, are disgustful to Nature, and not fit to be exhibited to any Body. There is a third sort; which although tolerably good in themselves, and innocent; yet being given unduly and unseasonably, when Nature requires a Medicine of another Operation: this is an Unlucky and unfortunate Medicine also, and strains Nature the wrong way: neither of these three do Corroborate Nature, but debilitate and deject. No wonder then, that so many pale Faces and thin Chaps appear after Physicking, since there are so many Unlucky Medicines abroad in the World, or unluckily appointed and given. Truly, if Nature be fretted, galled, or oppressed with such unwelcome, disgusting Medicines, she will make signs of her ill Usage: but if you give good Medicines, such as do corroborate, help and assist, her Smiles and good Looks will declare it.  
I might proceed far in Discourse, touching the great difference between the comprehensive Catholic Medicine, and the narrow, straitlaced Medicines, tied up to some particular Operation and Punpose; as also concerning the reasonableness and fair probability in Art, to design and effect a Medicine of Catholic Latitude: but I shall not spend more time now in Reasoning, but come to the Practical part of our Business, and prove by Fact, what you are not convineed of by Reason. If you cannot trace it in the Causes, such sufficient it is if I show it plain in the Effects: Experiment is above all Argunments, and Reason is silenced, when Fact determines without it, or against it. I'll know, your chief Desire is to see what Extraordinary, this Medicine hath, and can do; and I shall satisfy you therein; for it were a Crime to conceal what this Medicine hath effected, and what Help it affords to Nature, distressed and languishing, above the power of any orlier Medicine; which I shall show you, as followeth.  
The Author or Inventor of this Medicine, was the Maker of it; and also the first Patient that tried it upon his own Body. The occasion was rather urgent, than of curiosity to be satisfied: which in plain Dealing, and as short as I can (avoiding terms of Art as much as may be) was thus.  
Being uport a Journey, the third days Riding caused a Bloody Urine, or rather perfoot Blood, issuing that way, about half a pint at once, being newly alighted at my Inn. This much surprised me, being about fifty miles from Home, and such a distance from my own Medicines, it troubled me: for I was very unwilling to make use of Country Help, knowing well enough how the Medicine-Trade is managed. The first Expedient I pitch upon for Remedy, was Rhenish-Wine and Spring-Water, sweetened with a little Loaf-Sugar.; of which having drunk about a Pint, I made pale Urine, and very clear, no sign of Blood appearing; at which I was well pleased, and drank the same at Meals also. This Haemorrhage thus ceasing, and having a hundred Miles to ride further (after a days rest) I want on the Journey: but afterwards, Riding brought it upon me again; and I had recourse to the aforesaid Remedy, which stopped it several times.  
Coming to London, I found myself much disabled by this Accident in the Journey, and afflicted with Pain and Heaviness at the Region of the Back, chief the Left Kidney, and sometimes a Bloody Urine. But as many People use to do, I prosecuted my other Occasions (being then urgent upon my Return) and neglected my Preservation; until I was forced to betake myself to Medicines; which I did at vacant days, but not so strictly as I ought, by Retirement from all Business, so that the Disease abated little, or nothing, saving some Ease and Intermissions at times: but upon much walking, or shaking by Coach, those Symtoms returned again, and sometimes strains of Blood by Stools. I than began to observe strictly the Urine, which was strong scented, with a foul Sediment in the Urinal, after five or six hours standing. This gave me Information of an Ulcer placed in the Kidney; and I was then sufficiently alaramed of the danger, and drew off from all Business, applying earnestly to means, by Diet-drink, Pills, and other Medicines.  
But the Disense having gained such advantage by former delay, that what I had used did not check it, but proceeded higher and more formidable. The extravased Blood not sufficiently discharged by the urinary Ducture, nor by Stool; but being collected from the Left Kidney, to the Left Hypogaster; form a Tumour there, between the Flan●, and Navel, like a weighty Lump, which was very troublesome, lying on the Right Side, but more easy on the Left; to stretch, caused pain there; or to turn in Bed, except very gently. This Tumour pressing upon the Intestines, or Guts, stopped the passage, that I had no Stool for three or four days together, unless procured by Physic, and that with difficulty; also something else remarkable, which I forbear to mention. The Tumour thus continuing for a Fortnight, or three Weeks, and not discussing, but locked up, inclined to Suppuration; during which time, for about a Weeks space, a rushing noise, like Wind and Waters, much molested my Head; and fearing the dangerous Consequents of the Apostemation, that might destroy the Formation and Communication of Parts, rendering them uncapable of their Office: I seriously considered with myself what to do in this hazardous Juncture, as finding the Method and Medicines I had taken, to be ineffectual; the Disease increasing more terrible, and probably, mortal, unless some other Means were used.  
Thus anxiously considering, I bethought myself of a Medicine, which long before I had begun to form the Designment; and had noted it in my Papers, intending at some leisure times to review and perfect the Design thereof. This Medicine continued in my thoughts a day and a night, adding and altering in my mind variously (as having but this Cast for my Life) but coming to a result, and determing at last, both the Matter and Process, I prepared for it, and was earnest to finish, that I might come to the trial; (time was then precious) and being much persuaded in my mind, that this was as hopeful means, as Art could procure; and having some Preparations by me, serving to this purpose, I sooner finished the Work.  
The Medicine being made, next morning after early, I took a Dose thereof, a Dram in weight, and perceived no manifest Operation, until Afternoon; then a gentle motion downwards, and at night another; I felt no disturbance by the Medicine, all the day, but Easie in Body. This pleased me much, that the Medicine was so agreeable and gentle, and the Operation so pleasant, in my weak and sore Condition; I was encouraged to expect great and good EFFECTS from it. The morning following I took another Doses, which operated much like the first, but sooner in the day; I took the third day, the fourth and the fifth in like manner; during which time I was not at all sick at Stomach, nor molested any way by the Medicine. but as if I had taken no Physic, save only two or three Stools in the day, and Urine more freely, and paler than before, sent forth also with more strength. Thus my hopes began to spring, and I was wonderfully pleased with the Medicine for its Operation, and the Effects, and began to be Lighter in Body, and turn with less pain in Bed.  
Then I intermitted one day, forbearing the Medicine; but the day following I begun again, and took four days more together, observing daily the Stools and Urine; in which was much purulent Matter coming both ways, by Stools and Urine. Upon this the Tumour began to fall, and lessen daily: the Apostemated Matter being thus constantly evacuated by the help of the Medicine; which brought it away with so much case, as if it had been but the healing of a Cut Finger; it made me Eat, Drink, and Sleep well; but observed convenient Diet; and was sensible of any Irregularity committed, by some Indisposition afterwards; for, going abroad once too soon, and drinking the quantity but of a Pint of Ale: at return home about five of the Clock, I began to be in pain at the part affected (declaring a disgust to the Liquor) which increased to that degree in an hours time, that I was tortured in that part, so as I never felt the like, causing me to Vomit, Purge, Sweat, and Faint; which continued thus almost three hours, and then ceased suddenly, without the help of any thing; not being able to suffer a Spoonful of any Cordial to come within my Lips: this Fit being over, I was cheerful as before, and slept well that Night.  
The next morning, and the morning following, I took the Medicine again, which operated as usually before, with benefit and pleasantness; then I omitted a day, and took two days more together; and after another days Intermission, two days again the Medicine.  
Still Purulent Matter, but little; and sometimes Bloody Matter came away at every days Operation; but much easier in Body: the Tumyfied part now flat, and not sore, that I could lay my hand upon it without pain, and the Reins pretty firm, that I could stoop or walk with ease; but still engaged to continue the use of the Medicine, and then I took it every other day, for almost a Fortnight; but changed the times, and took it only at Nights, going to bed; and rested very well with it until the time of rising, and then a motion downwards.  
Observing constantly both Stools and Urine, I was satisfied the Cure came on very hopefully: and finding that the days of taking were better than when I forbore, and perceiving some small prickling pains at times in the Flank, and under the Os pubis especially at times of making Water, with some small appearance of corrupt Matter; I durst not yet leave off the Medicine, but kept the Passages open, for a full draining out of all the Corruption, lest any Relict lurking behind (though pretty quiet at present) might beget a fresh disturbance.  
And now I began to take the Medicine with the intermission of two days; and continued so for about a Fortnight, and went abroad the intermitting days. Afterwards I used it twice in a Week only, and went abroad those days I took the Medicine, the Wether being moderate, and myself being much more able in Body than before.  
And now by the good Providence of God, directing me to this Sovereign means (far beyond all that ever I knew) I am healed of that Ulcer and Apostem; which I must wholly ascribe to the Virtues of this Medicine. And thus much I thought myself engaged to declare to the World, in testimony of Thankfulness to the Almighty, and Charity to others, whose Lives may be in as great Jeopardy, and know not where to find such easy and secure Help; that as it was the sole Instrument of saving my Life, so it may be also of many others, though in different Cases.  
And having thus briefly given you the true and bare Narrative of this Cure, and the Matters of Fact; give me leave to comment a little upon the whole Story, and remark what may be considerable. Miser eram, ut fortunatus essem: Probably I had never known this good and great Medicine, had not Necessity urged me so earnestly upon the Invention, and full trial thereof upon myself; whereby I am the more assured of the excellent Properties and Worth thereof. Had I used this Medicine sooner, I had prevented the Tumour gathering; at least, the Apostemation, by dissolving and discussing the coagulate Matter, before Suppuration; but being fixed so long before, and inclinable to Suppurate, I must undergo the hazard of an Apostem spreading and breaking within the Belly (which might have proved Cancerous) and the danger of eroding the Vessels of those Parts, and rotting some part of the Mesentery: but plying this Medicine diligently, and undisturbedly from any other, broke the Apostem timely, discharged the Corruption freely, safely, and with much ease. Had this Apostem been prevented by the timely use of this Medicine, I had not then so certainly known its prevailing, healing power in such dangerous Cases: but the Author was made the first Experimentor of his new Medical Engine, and that in a deplorable and extreme Case. Some purchase Knowledge by Study; others by Travel, and I by my own Sickness; and that not a small one; for it almost cost me my Life; Quanti, quanti, bene emitur, non me poenitet.  
This Extract performed all the requisite Offices belonging to this great Cure: It acted alone the various Operations of divers Medicines, which successively and methodically are used in such Cases. This single Medicine, but once in twenty four hours taken, and sometimes but once in forty eight hours, performed the whole Work, and suppl'yd the place of a numerous train of Medicines: no Fomentations, Cataplasms, Unguents, or Liniments externally applied; as usually in like Cases: no Purging Pills, Potions, or Clysters: No Vulnerary Decoctions, or Cooling Juleps: no Sarcotick Electuaries, or Epulotic Bolus, internally used; as method requires in such Diseases.  
This Medicine alone, acted every Scene; this was the Traumatick, the Digestive, the Abstersive, the Purgative, the Anodyne, the Cordial, the Julep, that allayed Fermenting Matter, and Febrile Heats; the Opening Clyster, the Discussing Fomentation, the mollifying Unguent and Suppurating Cataplasm. This was, instar omnium, omnibusque praestantius. Had I been to run the Gantlope through so many various particular Chance Medicines (as the necessity of so great a Disease, and long of Course would require) with Paper Recipes, and unknown Casual Shop-Medicines; I had been fairly brought to Bed; my head had lain low enough by this time, I do not doubt: but this Medicine alone did sufficiently and fully answer all Indications, that Medical Art doth require in that, or like Cases; and the Operations were as I could wish: what more could be desired? Had I procured half a dozen Physicians and Surgeons, they could not have done more, or better, than what this single Medicine performed; and perhaps, not so well: varyous Opinions, and differing Conjectures, arising from many Heads, frequently disturbs; and sometimes, frustrates a Cure; especially, when Conjectural New-formed Medicines, pro re nata, must be put upon the Work; which most commonly are the result of Consultations; every man must have a Oar in the Boat; some pulls one way, and some another.  
I committed the whole Cure to this Medicine; not at a venture; but as satisfied (after a few days trial) nothing in Medical Art could do more securely and effectually; it kept my Body Open, at Ease, and in good Temper, free from any Fever, the whole Course: it discharged the Apostemated and Ulcerous Matter daily, by Stools and 〈◊〉: it never failed me a day, but performed steadily and constantly, with so much ease and pleasantness, that I could Eat and Drink, Sleep and Study, as if little ailed me; when dangerously seized with an Ulcer in the Kidney, and a Tumour Apostemating in the Belly. All this while I was double concerned: First, for my Life, as being at Hazard: and secondly, for the Reputation of the Medicine; which would have troubled me, had it not performed so clearly and manifestly excellent, althowh I had escaped: for I was much pleased in the hopes of this Medicine; that it would be the Instrument of saving many Lives; and that it might prove the None-such; perinde accidit; quod mihi maximè optatum fuit.  
But if I had died by some accidental miscarriage in this dangerous Sickness (as before mentioned by my adventure) notwithstanding I must needs have extolled the Medicine, offering so fairly for a Cure, and performing its Operations so admirably; that if the inevitable time of dying was come, the Medicine could not be charged with Insufficiency, since nothing can be expected more from a Medicine, than due Operations; and all the Medicines of this Art could do no more than this did, and I question, whether so much, and so well; for where there is variety designed methodically, and by turns to act several parts, some do it well, and some ill; that after much struggling through hopes and Fears, by better and worse days; if the Sick do at last recover, 'tis hard to say what effected, or conduced towards the Cure; so dubious commonly are the Methods of Physic, by various Medicines, even where the most and seeming greatest means are used.  
But notwithstanding all this great Performance upon myself in various Operations, and much Experience by repeated Use in my own Cure: I was desirous of seeing trials upon Others in different Cases, to confirm the Opinion I had of this Medicine; and therefore I waved the Use of other proper and good Medicines, for peculiar Operations and Purposes, in the Cure of several Infirmities and Diseases, in divers Persons, and prosecuted only with this Catholic Extract; from which successful Experiments and Proceed therein, I am further informed, and fully satisfied of the Worth and usefulness of this Medicine, both in Young and Old, and of both Sexes, variously diseased: the Particulars whereof to relate of each Person, would be too tedious, and swell this Narrative to inconvenient Bigness and Price: I shall therefore compendiously sum up the special Properties and Virtues wherewith this Medicine is endowed, and by what Operations it doth perform the same.  
I have found this Medicine to be most effectual, for Cleansing and Purifying foul or corrupt decaying Bodies; gently and gradually searching all parts and places, where such Matter settles and lodgeth; and that you will find by what comes from you both ways; for your Stools and Urine will be stronger scented than at other times; and you will see such filthy Stuff brought away, as you did not thiuk remained within you: it makes the Body wholesome, clean, and sweet, drawing out all Imputity, and stinking corrupt Humours, without the help of Issues: for by the use of this sometimes; you may be discharged safely from the troublesome daily dressing of stinking Issues; and at best, they are but Remedia à posteriori; to abate the Effects and product Matter of Diseases: but this Medicine is Remedium à priori; applying to the Fountain and Spring from whence such issuing Humour flows, and where it is bred: this 〈◊〉 only evacuates what is generated, but also prevents the generating of such noxious degenerate matter. 'Tis a good Invention, and useful sometimes to Embalm and secure the Dead from Putrefaction, and sending forth noisome Scent: but this hath a more excellent Art, that preserves living Bodies from putrid humours, which annoy and decay the Life. It is Customary with many to take a Purge, or two, now and then; and it is well thought on, for cleaning the Body, to prevent Diseases breeding, or growing and spreading; but if then also they were careful and knowing in the choice of their Medicine to do it with, this also is necessary: all Purging is not Purifying; but that which is performed by a wholesome, balsamic, purifying Medicine. If you rub the dust, or dirt from Iron with a wet Cloth, it soon after contracts a Rust, and your cleaning was to little purpose: and if you cleanse Man's Body with the common virulent Stimulators, falsely denominated Purgatives; it will soon want cleaning again: they taint also, stamping ill Impressions upon the Parts, and lay a Foundation for a future Work; it is therefore very considerable, with what Medicine you cleanse the Body; especially, Crasy and Weak: for this not only cleans and purifies, but also leaves a strengthening power behind, whereby the Parts perform their Functions more vigorously, and continue longer in their Duties.  
A grand Complaint, and most frequent amongst the Infirm and Diseased, is Obstructions; herewith thousands are grieved and complain; some in this Part, and some in that: the Lungs, the Liver, the Spleen, Mesentery, Pancreas, Matrix, Kidneys, Guts, Gall, etc. and from Obstructions in these parts, a multitude of Diseases take their rise, are continued, or aggravated thereby; else Physicians are very wrong in their Judgements and Determinations. Now here is a Medicine fit for the purpose, for Yours, and Yours: this is the best Picklock Instrument for opening of Obstructions or Stoppages that can be: it unbars and unlocks all Passages that are closed, clogged, or stopped up: removing and carrying away all the condensed or coagulate, viscous and slimy obstructing matter; lubrefying and dilating the Passages for a free transition thereof: and herein this Medicine hath given ample testimony of its Ability and Performance.  
Now from this and the former Operation, Viz. Cleansing, so performed; a numerous train of Diseases are carried off, and subdued; as, Scurvy, Dropsies, Hypochondriac Melancholy, Jaundice, Spleen, Colic, Green Sickness, Flatulent Fumes, Hysterical Fits, Fevers, Quinsies, Pleurisies, etc. There being no Morbific matter left to breed on, or to feed on.  
How many Fevers depend upon Obstructions, by morbous, depraved matter lodged, or locked up? Very many, and very often, this is the generating Cause, and this is the continuing Cause; you may then give Julep upon Julep, and play the fool till Death's day, and never cure the Fever. These Obstructions cause Pain, this Pain raiseth a Fever; and oftentimes, an Inflammation to the Bargain; this Inflammation, a Tumour, internal and seldom perceived: this Tumour sometimes Apostemates, or becomes Scirrhous and Indurate; or Gangrenes, and kills the Patient, never coming to any Suppuration; and then the Patient is said to die of a Fever; they could not quench this Fever: no, I believe not, it was not like to be done by Juleping and Clystering, and blustering to no purpose. And after this manner so many thousands have died of a Fever; thanks to the Ignorance of the pretending Curers. And such Cases internal as these, come oftener into the Physician's Practice, than taken notice of; and thousands have died upon this account, when the true state of the Case was not discerned; but the Patient died of a Fever; that was apparent, and aimed at; the rest was latent, and therefore proved Mortal: this Medicine can find out a Disease, when the Physician sees it not, and knows not what to aim at.  
But here is an Engine to quench a Fever, surer and safer than with Buckets full of Juleps. But will this Medicine remove Obstructions? Then it will cure many a Disease: yes, if it were a heap of Gravel in the Kidneys or Bladder, it will carry it away, and sweep the place. I perceive now, Dame Nature, Medicatrix, with the help of this Instrument, will cure a multitude of Diseases, if there were never a Doctor and Apothecary to be found. This is a far better Medicine, than any Paper Medicine; the Recipes and Decipes, the Potguns and Crackers, that make a noise, and do no execution; yes, sometimes they do; mortal Execution.  
For Pains of the Head or Limbs, Stitches, or Gripes in the Body, Reumatism, or Gout; this Medicine is most proper means, and very prevailing, to free all parts of the Body from acrid, sharp, punging and corroding Humours; the Causes of such restless, painful assaults that molest you. And for such as have the Gout, or incline thereto, this is both Preventive, to keep off, and a Curative Remedy in the Paroxysm, or Fit; and is the safest allaying, easing means, in those extreme tormenting Cases, when Physicians dare not give a Medicine for fear of the danger, and of making them worse: but this comfort they will administer; when the Fit is off, they will then prescribe a Course of Physic: Thank you for nothing; truly Doctor, if you cannot help me when I am tormented with pain, you shall not meddle with me when I am at ease; for you are not likely to do me any good.  
To assist the Genital Function, and remove the Impediments of those Organs, belonging to that Faculty, for the better and due Performance of their Offices; this Medicine is singular good: it enables feeble insufficient Persons by cleansing and giving strength to those Parts, and is probable good means against Barrenness. 'Tis the best Remedy for weak Backs, Loins, or Genitals; for Strains or Over Reaches; for Spermatick Wasting, and Seminal Issuing; to stay the Whites safely, by cleansing and purifying; to digest a crude, thin, watery Seed, and reduce it to better Consistence; by cleansing the Spermatick Vessels, and elaborating the Seed; it knits and roborates the Spine and Genitals of both Sexes.  
For Diseases appearing outward, declaring an ill habit of Body, and foulness of Blood; as when Spots, Pimples, Itch, Scabs, Pustuls, Swell, etc. this Extract is very proper, for a more free Perspiration; and to send forth by the Pores, for a purification of the Blood, and nutricious Juices of the Body.  
For the Venereal Lues or Pox, and that long Train of Symptoms, which attend, and gradually follow this grand Disease, as Gonorrhaeas, sharp Urine, Buboes, Pains, Scabs, Pustuls, Ulcers, etc. This Catholic Medicine is incomparable for power, and most convenient for Privacy: being a Remedy so easily managed, and giving the most Liberty, that can be allowed, if the Wether be not very bad to go abroad in: for its Operations are so gentle, and this to be taken at Nights; that whilst you sleep, it is doing the Work that you desire to be effected: and although other dogged, ill contrived Medicines, do make the Diseased look thin and suspiciously; this enables them in body, and also puts a good face upon it, and you will not be worn down and enfeebled by this Medicine, as commonly by the untoward methods now practised.  
To promote and set forward all Chirurgical Cures, that appear outward, and may be managed by the hand; this Medicine is most excellent and useful: for Wounds, Tumours, Contusions, Apostems, Ulcers, Cancers, Fistula's; and Gangrenes, if not too far gone to a Mortification, nothing is more available and conducing towards a Cure; and put it forward when you are at a stand, by drawing off and evacuating all Humoral Feeding Causes, which continues, and keeps Sores from healing. But for the like Cases internal; this Medicine does all the Work, and acts a dexterous Surgeons part in those places, where neither his eye can discern, nor his hand come to help you: then this Medicine is more helpful, and more to be depended on, than all the Practisers in this Art: this alone will do the Work, if possible to be done. This Medicine will help you, to throw away your Crutches: and for a decayed rotten CARCASE, if possible to be restored, this is the Remedy.  
Chirurgery is a very fine Art; but I do not like the Craft, nor the Ignorance that some of those Professors are plentifully endowed with: they can dress and plaster up the Patient, but know little of the true Design and Mystery of Curing: but he that is truly Knowing, Skilful in Healing, and Honest, is a man much to be esteemed: such are but few: else, what makes the Surgeon so long about Healing, in Cases not so difficult? Because he wants the right designment, and good internal Medicine to promote the Work. Healing ariseth (primariò) from Nature within; not from Plaster and Unguent without: External Applications will not do, without good Internal Medicine, disposing and enabling Nature for Healing, thereby to effect the Cure: after six Months, and twelve Months tormenting, you shall have this comfortable News; your Leg, or your Arm must be chopped off, if you will save your Life: This is an Aftergame to be played.  
Natura Corroborata— Is that the Quid agendum? That's easily said; but, quibue auxiliis? What Medicines have you to do it with? Additu difficilia; they are not so soon found out: for want of these the Gangrenes and Mortifications, too often put a period to the Surgeon's Labour; and the Patient's Life. I have seen the woeful Experience of this; and I have seen the joyful Experience of the other. Ab infortunio, fortunium: This Ulcer and Apostem taught me to be a Surgeon; and this two Months Cure informed me more; than seven years' Hospital Practice could teach me: true, I might learn there the Art of Dismembering, how to cut off Arms and Legs cleverly: but I learned a better Art than that; namely, how to save Arms and Legs, and Bodies from mangling. Amputation would not so frequently be the mode of Curing; nor the extreme Remedy of saving the Life; if the true Art of 01 Healing was rightly known. I might learn there to Cut & Carbonado: but here I learned the Art of sleeping in a whole Skin; that's better. I saved both Belly and Back from ripping up, with the help of this Medicine only: and for these good Deeds, I must never forget this good Medicine.  
For inward Bruises, to prevent or dissolve coagulate Blood; to discuss and dissipate collected Humours, resorting thither, and fixing; to defend and strengthen the grieved part; nothing more available. And as for Fractures and Disloctations,; which necessarily require a skilful Surgeon's hand, & outward Applications: yet for inward Medicine, to keep the Body in due temper, and to promote such Cures, this is most helpful and assisting to Nature, for a safe and more speedy performance thereof. Upon a review therefore of what hath been truly said, this Medicine doth appear the most commodious Medicinal Provision (as ready, durable, and portable) for Armies, Navies, and Hospitals: completed for all emergent Occasions, and the most effieacious means that can be used; for Wounded, Contused, Apostemated, Ulcerated, Maimed Persons, and sick People; nothing Superior, nor equal to it now in Practice.  
It evacuates by Stool, cleanseth by Urine, evaporates by the Pores, expectorates and clears the Breast.  
Promotes the Digestions, removes Obstructions, expels Wind, Fumes, and Vapours.  
Roborates and strengthens the Nerves, Tendons, Ligaments, Membranes and Fibers; enabling them for Extension, Retension, Expulsion and Transmission.  
Prevents and checks Febrile Heats, and Turgid Fermentations.  
Allays Pain, procures Rest, Heals admirably.  
A Restorative, to retrieve a Consumptive, Wasting Body: and excellent for such as are Phthisical, Astmatic, or have a stinking Breath; opening the Pipes of the Lungs, cleansing away Phlegm, or putrid Matter by Expectoration; helps Coughing, Wheesing, and and Shortness of Breath; and for tabefyed, decayed, weak Lungs; nothing liked it. A Perfume to sweeten a rank, corrupt Carcase. A Catholic Instrument, serving Nature's Conveniency and Necessity, applying fitly to all Cases.  
This is a Composition, ex tribus: Aliment, Condiment, and Medicament; here is Food, and Sauce to it; and Medicine in the Rear, for Digestion (extra Jocum). This is a strange Compound indeed, as ever was; but it is a true one; and the best (if I may be Judge) that ever was yet; at least, the best that I ever saw, or can hear of; and I have had the view of thousands, upon Inquiry and Search for many years, in Print and Manuscripts: besides my own Experiments and Trials, not a few, for satisfaction. It carries the best face, and makes the most hopeful and innocent Appearance, upon review of the Materials, and the Designment of Preparation: but that's not all; it answers in Practice, and proves as good, or better than it promiseth: for in all the dangerous and difficult Cases that this Medicine hath been used, I know not of any Miscarriage, or ill Operation happening in the weakest and tenderest Bodies; but much to the satisfaction of all: Intaminatis fulget honoribus.  
This is a Jewel sir for the Cabinet of Princes; and I do believe, (not without reason, but without Vanity or Boasting) that they have not such help as this, when they stand in need.  
The Learned Professors of this Art, perhaps may be angry, to see a single Medicine vieing with all their Skill and Practice: but who can help it? Truth must be spoke; this Medicine fears no Frowns, and begs no Favour; because 'tis able to stand a Trial, and abide the Test; this is no Cheat nor Brag (we scorn those Tricks) it will do that which sometimes they cannot do with a whole Shop of Medicines: There is no such Method recorded upon the Files; nor no such Medicine in the Shops.  
For Infants or Children that are troubled with Worms, or have hard and big Bellies; this Medicine is excellent; either given inwardly, or applied outward, as a Plaster upon the Navel, the breadth of your Palm.  
'Tis a necessary Vade mecum, and a secure Companion for a Traveller; being both Physician, and Apothecary; and Surgeon in many Cases; as in all your Travels you shall not find the like, nor such help to be purchased for your Gold. How sadly are some exposed, that fall sick in strange Places? What inconsiderable, (if not pernicious) assistance in most places, as Physic is now managed? and in the best places it is specious, but not what it seems to promise. This will Sail with you to East-India; and if there be no Occasion in the Voyage (as ten to one there will) you may take it, or give it when you come home, and it will be then in full Power and Virtue. Ships and Shops, they are bravely provided! Ah! I know how; and I know both the Ship-Doctors; and the Shop-Doctors, that give out Bills, Recipès; what do you call them; the Paper Medicines they practice with; that imprudent late Invention, and pernicious Innovation. I have searched the Medical Art, and Medicine Trade; from one end to the other: I have sounded the Shallons, and the Deep: I know the Intrigues, the Blinds, and the sham's; (as well as the Excellency, and what is praiseworthy) and it is two to one, but you may know them ere long: but we are now upon another business, the Catholic Medicine. But all this while, you know not how to use it, if you had it: I'll tell you; and I can inform you as well as any body; for I have taken it thirty times at least, myself; and I know how many, others have taken it; and the Effects.  
The Dose, or Quantity to be taken at once: the Manner how: and Times when; are thus.  
A Man, or Woman may begin with half a Dram, for the first Dose; which is about the quantity of a Hazel Nutshell: next time a Dram weight: which is about the bigness of a large Nutmeg: and this is the most usual Dose for continuance afterward: except some very strong Bodies, that may proceed to a Dram and a half: a Child often years old, may take the Quantity of a Hazel Nut.  
Take it upon a Knife's Point: but you may divide it into two or three parts, for the more easy swallowing; and a Spoonful of warm Drink with each, to carry it down: (this was my way) or you may dissolve the whole Dose, in two Spoonfuls of hot Drink; and take a Spoonful or two after, to wash your mouth: or else you may put it in the pap of an Apple, Stew'd-prune, or such like, and swallow it: either way will serve, as every one likes best. The Drink you take with it, may be White-Wine, and Spring-Water, equal Quantities mixed: I have taken it with Ale; with Small Beer; and with Milk; for Trials: but Wine and Water together, I commend generally, as the best Vehicle.  
The Times of taking this Medicine, most usually, and best; is at Night, going to bed: for it doth not hinder Sleep; but rather procures quiet Rest: and those Nights you must eat but little; and not after seven of the Clock: but if any Person shall find any Inconvenience, by taking over Night; it may be taken early in the Morning, at four or five of the Clock, and sleep after: about eight or nine of the Clock, you may drink a Draught of warm Ale, or Beer; but not Stolen, or Whey in Summer. If the the Wether be not very bad; or the Weakness and Condition of Body, doth not forbid; you may go abroad without danger. And if occasion requires; you may safely take this Medicine in Frosty Wether or Dog Days. I took it three or four times in a Week, the last great Frost; but kept within. The Use of this Medicine, is to be continued a longer, or shorter time, according to the greatness of the Disease 01 or Cause. Take at first, three Nights together; intermit one Night, and take three Nights more: and in many Cases this is enough: but if the Occasion be greater, requiring a further Prosecution; you may then proceed on, and take two Nights together, and intermit the third; afterwards you may take but every other day.  
This is no rough, boisterous Medicine; it makes no buss, nor gives any Disturbance; but it works gently, cunningly, and privately, like a Mole under Ground: and you must give it due time to complete the full Effects; but every days Operation will encourage you to go on, by the present daily advantages: therefore be not too hasty in your Expectation; if there be a difficult piece of Work to be done; and leave not off the Medicine too soon; but give the full trial of its Efficacy and Virtue: your Disease came on by degrees; and it must go gradually off: and impute not your Miscarriages, your improper, unseasonable, or insufficient Use of this means, to the deficiency of the Medicine; which cannot Cure, unless prudently used; and be careful to avoid irregular Living, during the use hereof.  
But all this is to little purpose; at least, not to your advantage; if you know not where to have this good Medicine: to conceal it, were a Crime; and to confine this most useful Medicine to a private Practice only; were against the Rule of Charity: how acceptable would this be to such, as are in desperate Cases; who commonly are exposed to desperate Medicines, and ill contrived Methods? Therefore this Medicine is made thus public, for their help: and for Conveniency to such persons; either of the Booksellers, for whom this is printed; named in the Title-Page: they will procure the Medicine for such as desire it; without their further trouble. And although this Magnal might reasonable be valued at the price of Gold, weight for weight: but then the meaner sort would be barred from the use of so helpful a Remedy; therefore it is so appointed, to be purchased for a little; that they may share in the benefit hereof, which will save both Lives and Pounds; and to this I can write probatum est: in relation to myself and others: for what do you think my great Cure cost me with this Medicine? Not above thirty Shillings, I may truly say: which had it been managed by the common method of Physic, as now practised; I could not expect the Charge of to be less than 30 or 40 pounds: then I am beholden to this Medieine, as the Instrument that saved both my Life and my Purse.  
I fared much better with this single Medicine, than a Gentleman did (that I know) with all his Method of various Medicines; who for the Cure of his Ague consulted three able Physicians in and about London; who had of him sevenscore Guineas for their good Advice, during his Course of Physic: besides the Apothecary's Bills, which came upwards of thirty pounds: and after all this Charge and all these Medicines; (you may imagine he had good store, or great store of them for his Money:) the Patient went into the Country uncured; carrying his Ague along with him.  
There is much more to be said concerning this Medicine; having been proved, and approved by many: the great Performances and admirable Effects whereof, you will have a particular Account the next Opportunity.  
It is time now to end our Discourse; I have been something longer than intended; but the Importance of the Matter being no small thing; I could not pass it over slightly: it was that which nearly concerned my Life; and here is enough to concern Yours; and you know not how soon it may come to the Trial: probably some part of it will, sooner, or later; except sudden Death prevents the Use of means: but few think of the Means, until Extremity urgeth; and then sorry help they procure; which commonly makes but a sorrowful Conclusion of the Work.  
I have not put my Name to this Narrative: (not that I am ashamed to own any thing here delivered) but for some Reasons best known to myself: and desire to be excused therein; at least for the present: but if any Person hath aught to object, against any thing here asserted, either as Argument, or Matter of Fact; let him produce; and the Author hereof promises a Reply, and a further Account of this Grand REMEDY.  
FINIS.