PHYSIC FOR FAMILIES, DISCOVERING A safe Way, and ready Means, WHEREBY Every one at Sea or Land, may with God's assistance be in a capacity of Curing themselves, or their Relations, in all Distempers or Extremities; WITHOUT Any the Hazards, Troubles, or Dangers, over usual, in all other ways of Cure.  Prov. 9 12. 
If thou be wise, thou shalt be wise for thyself, but if thou scornest, thou alone shalt bear it.  
London, Printed by I, Winter, And are to be sold by Robert Horn in Gresham College Court, 1669.   

To the Reader.  
Courteous Reader,  
TO love our Neighbour as ourselves, though it be very good, yet since it signifies to make them as happy as ourselves: Our judgements had need be right, both as to our own, and their good: Or we may soon render them very miserable, when we least intent it, by persuading them into the same path of ruin which (through mistake) ourselves would have taken for our preservation.  
And therefore, that every well-willer may be truly qualified to be a friend, nothing is more needful then to get Wisdom, and understanding in all the main occasions of this life, that so as our affections make us apt and ready to advise, our well digested Reason and Conscience may render our Counsel always good, and profitable to those we give it.  
And truly if in any thing these are useful Cogitations, they must needs be so in those of Physic; wherein as there are vast differences, and smallest Errors, often mortal, so unless those who in times of sickness are forward to persuade, are not also in good measure able to distinguish what's safe and powerful, from what's hazardous, painful, and dangerous both as to Methods, and Medicines, their friendship would much better be snewed in silence, than in speaking, or advising.  
Which, yet, being but cold comfort; And that to get knowledge is every one's duty, that they may be helpful in time of need. None should either stand averse from endeavouring, or be discouraged in their hopes of obtaining so much skill at least: As in an instant, to make a safe and rational choice where the difference is so manifest; as in your serious reading of this Discourse will plainly appear, even in this (hitherto) much obscured Science of Physic.  
The Scripture saith, a merry heart doth good like a Medicine: And if so, in true consequence, ought not the Operations and Effects of kindly and real Medicines, to resemble those of a merry heart? certainly it can be no absur ditty to expect it.  
Now, who knoweth not that a merry heart joined with virtue and prudence (for such only the holy Scriptures can intent) performeth all its good, by insensibly dispersing a most lively and benign influence throughout the body, to the joy, contentment, and felicity of the whole man, without any the least disturbance, pain, or danger whatsoever?  
And if Medicines are, or can be found, through whose friendly and powerful operations, all sadness, and sickness, may without pain or trouble be totally Expelled and Exstinguished, why should they not be known, sought after, and cheerfully embraced?  
But that there are such in being, having throughly perused this Discourse, you will be well assured; and that they are securely to be trusted to for cure in all cases. The manifold Instances of their real performances, will ascertain past all scruple. And which throughly read, & noted in all particulars, will soon enable you to cure your selus, or friends, & to find what is most proper in those, or any other Distempers; and by their Marks you will really distinguish them from such as are improper, hazardous or dangerous.  
Their particular Titles, Virtues, and Uses, where to have them, and h●w to order them, as necessity, or occasion requires, you will also clearly understand.  
And though men for the most part seldom value any thing, though never so useful and precious, until they immediately need them. Yet experience will tell you, it is neither safe nor prudent at such times to be to learn: But rather to be aforchand with all necessary knowledge; To give due and just regard to every thing according to its worth: And so to stand like wise and wary persons, always provided and prepared in every Exigence and Difficulty of Sickness or Distemper: To take the surest course, and to give the soundest and most assured advice to Neighbours, Friends, and Relations in all their extremities. It being in this as in all other parts of Wisdom, abundantly more happy, to be able to give, than to stand in need of Counsel.  
And then, being rightly informed, if (as your judgements shall determine most proper) you shall furnish yourselves for your Families, your Journeys, Veyages, or other occasions, with God's blessing you may set your hearts at rest, as being better enabled to administer safe and effectual relief, to yourselves, or Relations, than any other ways you could either hope or imagine.  
An accommodation and happiness of no mean degree, not known to Foreign Nations. And indeed, more worth than Jewels and richest Mines: for such in truth and reality is speedy Restoration from tedious sickness to inestimable health; without trouble, pain, or danger; the sole effect of these pure and powerful Medicines: And could not but be generally so esteemed, did not Collumbus still want a gown in England.  
W. W. Healths Student. Despicit? Nescit. At the Star in the Postern by little morefield's, Lond.   

PHYSIC FOR Families, etc.  
THough the Example of the good Samaritan, in pouring Wine and Oil, into the Wounds of the halfdead Traveller, should not expressly warrant a sole reliance upon those Excellent Materials in all like cases, being not so determined by Divine Authority; yet being both of them blessings of high account, Where their Wine and their Oil increaseth, bringing gladness to man's Heart, and Cheerfulness to his Countenance, of so safe, and so familiar a Nature, as to be both substantially nourishing, and most delightful Diet. It cannot but imply and persuade, that whatsoever is administered in times of sickness, or extremity, should not only be highly virtuous, respecting the Distemper, but also of so benign, pure, and truly Humane Temperature, that they may be taken with as much security and delight, as the most wholesome and pleasant Diet: And which if admitted into Diet, may be as advantageous to the conservation of Healh and life, as in the most venomous Distempers they are unto recovery: inducing also a belief, that until Medicine be so ordered, (let who will be the confident prescribers) Physic; the great sustainer of mankind, is not in its true exalted state, but in a sordid, low, and perplexed condition unfit for Humane Constitutions, and not to be trusted in times of sickness and extremity.  
And from such Contemplations as these, it hath been that I have deemed nothing proper to be given in sickness to any person, old or young, but what may be safely, and profitably taken by those in health.  
And if from hence, and out of my tender regard to the distressed and dismal times of sickness, I have endeavoured all I could, and bend all my Studies for the obtaining of such kindly, and Powerful Medicines, as thereby safely to avoid, and wholly to abandon all those troublesome, painful, hazardous, and dangerous operations, and Ingredients too to usual in practice; (It being too sad a time to add affliction to affliction) as I have much comfort therein; so I conceive my charitable intentions, sufficiently justified by the Text: The truly Christian Virtue eof Compassion, being as essentially needful in a Physician, as in the most tender hearted Samaritan: and without an eminent proportion whereof (what ever other parts or Arts abound) none ought, in justice, to be owned as a competeut Helper, in times of such necessity.  
Nor did I decline the common Road of Physic, for any other cause Imaginable, but for its manifest uncertainty in Principles, Roughness, Harshness, and Cruelty in Methods; Impropriety, Impotency, and danger in Medicines. Nor found out any way to relieve my understanding, when first at so great a loss, but by withdrawing my thoughts from out the wilderness of all the uncertain Notions and Guesses of Philosophy, and giving them free liberty in the walks of Scripture; Where the true Original of man, the sole subject of Physic (hid from Philosophy) being apparent, and the sublimity of the true Humane Temperature thence deducible; I soon discerned that all miscarriages in Physic, proceeded from the admission of gross, virulent, and dangerous materials into practice, together with other Rugged and Boisterous handling; And for want of assimulating, all Helps, and Helpers in times of sickness, more agreeable to the distinct purity of man's Nature.  
Upon which, noting with great circumspection, every the least Glance, or Lustre, of this my surest Guider, the Scriptures, insinuating any spark of instruction towards the appropriation and power of Medicines,. It was not long before I apprehended a possibility of obtaining all Effects attainable in Physic, solely by kindly and pleasant means, void of all noxious operations, or mischievous Materials.  
In persuance whereof, I concieve it very conducible to my end, to confine every of my Medicines to such qualifications (of what specific intention soever) as (being such) should necessarily answer all my aims and expectations; and which since, proving in their performance accordingly, I have deemed it a considerable advantage to the Science of Physic, to propose those their peculiar qualities, as sure Marks of Real Medicines, whereby to distinguish those which are fit and proper for Humane Constitutions, and Rational, to be relied on in all cases, from those which are not, as by the sequel of this Discourse will more fully appear.  
An undertaking in the whole, of so strange a Difficulty, that I have many times since wondered I was not astonished, and utterly disheartened at the first conception.  
Nevertheless, assisted as I have said, and (as I verily believe) with very Effective Propensions in Nature, and with a Palate suitably exercised in the Discerning of the Spirits, and bend to the Discovery of the Virtues of materials, whereby all Compounds, as well as Simples, lay open to my assistance, with a mind thus furnished, and prepared, resolving neither to flatter, nor indulge myself in trifling insignificant Attainments, nor to be startled in so Worthy and Needful an Attempt, by any Difficulties; with due Submissions, I proposed my End, made choice of Materials, wrought them into the consistence and Qualities of real Medicines, satisfied my Palate in their taste, proved them upon myself; and as cause required, either altered, or immediately fixed them for general Use and Practise.  
In which way of proceeding, in process of time, I became so happy, as to satisfy my reason, in the Production of so large a variety of kindly and powerful Medicines, so Equally proportioned to men's Natures, and so peculiarly qualified for particular Distempers, as sufficed for all Occasions and Necessities: And which ever since they had a being, have with that constancy wrought so many remarkable Cures; that I now deem myself bound in duty to propose them as the most proper Physic for Families, according to the Titles, judging I should highly offend, if I should fail of my uttermost endeavour to beget a right and thorough understanding of their performances.  
And this, not only because of the manifest good they bring with them, in theiruse (with safety) but also for that absolute exemption from all those troublesome, painful, hazardous, and dangerous proceed, with which the general course of practice is sadly and grievously encumbered.  
A brief view of the particulars whereof, may here be needful, that every one may see and lay to heart, how much more dreadful, painful, and Dangerous the afflicted times of sickness are thereby rendered, and what an unspeakable happiness it would be both to all Conscionable, Compassionate Physicians, and all considerate Patients to have such Medicines always in readiness, by which all those Evils and Inconveniences may Safely, and securely be avoided.  
The first of which molesters of the sick, in the usual course of practice, are commonly Glisters; which how innocent and harmless soever they are esteemed, are nevertheless attended with more Trouble and Danger then is considered: For besides their pressing over hard upon the modesty of the more bashful natures, and so Disturbing their minds, by the odd position and Distasteful handling of the body; they also expose very much to the taking, or increasing of Colds, and exceedingly disorder, when Quietness and Sleep are most desirable. But how they amaze with fears, when they one after another work not at all, as often befalls to extreme prejudice, and how dreadfully they affright when they work too much, as sometimes they do, in my apprehentsion deserves very much consideration; Especially since in their mildest working, the state of the body and Distemper may be such, as they may prove no less than mortal, by diverting and withdrawing the Spirits from their more needful combating the venomous Cause of the Disease, to this needless operation, and consequently leaving Nature destitute in her greatest extremity.  
Nor is the very manual part, how slight so ever the most make of it, altogether free from the most feared effect. It having been known where a small error in the Hand administering, hath occasioned an incurable Ulcer; And therefore all circumstances duly weighed, it must be deemed a very great advantage to understand the use of such Medicines, as bring an absolute freedom from all those Troubles, Hazards, and Mortal Inconveniences.  
After Glisters, the next afflicter of the sick, is generally Bleeding, a practice not so frequent in former, as in latter times, and both highly commended, and every whit as much condemned by persons equally Learned; So that in this, their Trumpet gives an uncertain sound, And some who are famous upon Record, Esteemed it the more proper work of worthy Physicians to rectify rather than draw and waste it in times of sickness, when Nature most needeth its assistance, of which cautious judgement also seem the Chinese and the Bannian Physicians, but later times and Operators are at that pass, as if they made little more of it then drawing of their breaths, and so they term it but breathing of a Vein, though with their favour it be not so easily recruited, and besides that many times the bleeders breathe their last by it, or by occasion thereof.  
And truly, though those who usually order it, seldom make the observation; yet for the most part, the persons concerned, and their Relations cast but Dismal looks upon it, and address themselves thereunto, with much Dismay and Trembling (oftentimes swooning away under the Bleeders hands,) as a thing of much uncertainty and over much danger, the Event frequently so proving, not any one proceeding in Physic, being more complained of, nor any whereunto the failing of patients is more imputed; and that with justice too, for what worse can befall afflicted Patients, overborne, and oppressed with the violent assaults of some Venomous Distempers; then to have their main forces, their Spirits drawn off from making those needful Defences whereunto by Nature they are assigned, and upon which it most dependeth for her preservation?  
And what wonder is it, if soon after a little flattery and shadows of relief, fuddain Dejections immediately follow thereupon, and sickness upon Nature thus betrayed, prevail beyond all possibility of recovery, as (were Records kept thereof) would be sadly seen in every week's experience.  
And as it is but small relief to show how many recover after bleeding; The Course in itself being so hazardous, and of ten Mortal: so as little comfort it is to show the ill, or rather odd Colours of the cooled and congealed Blood, which is known to be but fallacious trifling, to amuse bewailing and Disconsolate people, neither goodness, nor badness being at all ascertained thereby.  
And be it how it will, is generally the best friend the body hath, and consequently never to be separated; nor indeed is ever needful where such Medicines are in readiness, as are Effectually qualified for Extinguishing of the Venomous Causes of Diseases: And for Purifying and Rectifying both of the Blood and Spirits, wherein chief consisteth the Worth or Ability of Physicians, and the Reality and Excellency of Medicines.  
And without which, upon every Exigence there is such Hurrying, Starting, and Puthering, one while with a Glister, then with Bleeding, sometimes the Arm, the Tongue, or other parts, and these suddenly again repeated, to the Extreme affrightment of the afflicted Patient, and all his sad Relations; and all this upon mere Casual, uncertain Grounds, as to what the issue may be, or whether conducing to Life or Death: A hazard of a strange nature for Patients to adventure the parting with, and loss both of their Blood and Spirits, upon which Death so often follows, when the Physician runs none at all, Secundum Artem, excusing even to the utmost scruple of Reputation, if not of Conscience, which possibly may yet often suggest that they ought to have been provided, and to have plied those (who so highly trusted them) with such really powerful and benign Medicines, as they cannot but have heard and been assured to have discharged the most, Violent, Venomous Distempers without this unmerciful Experiment of bleeding; which also in the very action, through a small miscarriage of the hand pricking a Nerve, hath lost the use of an Arm or Hand, and sometimes through an ensuing Gangrene proved utterly Destructive.  
Why therefore, all these Particulars considered, this Bleeding, or bloody practice should longer continue in repute, especially since so 〈◊〉 Instances, are so generally discoursed, viz. That after the many times bleeding of some persons, the last fits of their Distempers immediately before death, were (without any mitigation by all that wast of Blood) as vehement and Rigorous, as in any time of their sickness, which instances in reason ought to remind every conscionable Physician, and every prudent Patient of this important Truth, that it is not this uncertain and uncomfortable course of bleeding; But the reality of kindly and powerful Medicines, that (under God) is most hopefully to be relied on for cure in all Extremities.  
After bleeding, in the usual course soon followeth Purging, but very ill deserving, that plausible Title. Most of that mass of filthy matter,, which it carrieth out of the body, being made by its own venomous qualities, and so in former times was deemed more an Enemy, than a Friend in all its loosening Operations, as working merely by violence, and disturbance of Nature, and that also much alike upon the healthful, as upon the sick, and so could not be said to work upon the Disease directly, but at random upon the body, and most often to its prejudice.  
Advising accordingly, that for discharging of Crudities (the causers of many Diseases) recourse should be had to moderate Exercise and Recreation, rather than to Purgative Medicines. And that because not only of their painfulness, their efficacy being contrary to Nature, and for the most part venomous, but also for that they are apt to root their poisonous qualities in the Body, and withal, divert and draw away from the Members those kindly Juices which the powers of nature require for their nourishment and subsistence; Yea and the vital sp●●its also which maintain and comfort life.  
Thus hath this loosening way of Physic been frequently condemned; But if this be not thought sufficient to extinguish its unhappy use, let but every one concerned refer to their own observation, and without partiality note, with what uncertainty these looseners perform their Office: As sometimes when but three or four stools are only expected, it gives eight, ten, nay twenty, and those frequently, with so much loathing to the taste, offensive nastiness to the Nostril, and to the Brain of patients and all about them, as also with such extremity of pains and gripe as are most intolerable, othertimes give never so many Potions, Pills, Powders. Electuaries of these loosening qualities, yet shall they not work at all to the terror both of Physician and Patient, yet otherwhiles run out into such loosnesses as are never stayed, but with the death of the taker.  
And when working most kindly, and never so much ugly odd coloured stuff carried out, yet the Disease frequently not one jot abated, though the patient be thereby extremely weakened, scarce able to stand: The body also drained, and rob of almost all its Radical moisture, much more apt to obstinate obstructions, and so necessarily calls for more of such like miserable helpers, which by frequent use perverts the best constitutions, sow the seed of new Diseases, and confounds the whole course of nature.  
And yet that this should be continued in perpetual practice, upon so very many and great disadvantages, perplexities and dangers merely upon uncertainty, and be justified by the practisers, be the event never so sad and Dismal, this indeed is very mysterious, and too too like the mystery of  
For who now adays remains in so much ignorance as not to know that Disease is a more lively, active thing, then to reside amongst such muddy matter, as these Purgers can possibly reach, being indeed of a more sprightly and and subtle Nature, then to be discovered by the Eye, Hand, or Knife of the most skilful Anatomists, and only liable to the disquisition of Reason, and an ingenious, intimate conception; And so, not to be attempted by such blusterers, but by Medicines issuing from the same Fountain, such as by their efficacious friendilness to Nature, with quietness and safety, Extinguish venoms, and enable her in all her faculties towards the clear discharge of all distempers; And such being to be had, as in the sequel hereof will evidently appear, one would think there were no need to persuade either Physicians or patients to make an exchange where the differences of operation, and hopefulness of the Event, are so plainly manifest.  
Now, if Purging (as they call it) be thus justly chargeable with so many evils and mischiefs, what can be said in behalf of Vomiting the most Rugged, Churlish, and cruel of Physic, tearing and rending, and torturing, both Stomach, Bowels, Heart, Brain, Lungs, and Throat in so hideous a manner, as hardly any corporal punishment can be imagined to exceed it in pain and misery.  
And yet though often reiterated, as it often befalls in many Distempers to intolerable torment, is never the less so uncertain in its Effects, as that no relief with any certainty can be promised thereby, but fills distressed patients one while with fears when it worketh not, and when it worketh, with greater fears of working too much: There being sad Examples of both, viz. where they have stayed in the body without any (expected) operation, and so destroyed the patiented: And also where the working hath been so violent, and so continual, as hath never ceased, but with the Expiration of the sick.  
And where these Extremes have not been, yet the failing of both men, women, and children is so frequently ascribed to Vomits, that its wonderful they are not Excluded quite out of use.  
Besides, where Minerals are the main Agents in this unhappy work, it is incredible how mischievous their present tortures, and after worse than mortal inconveniencies have proved, conveying and entailing most Horrid pains and distempers from Generation to Generation, to all Posterity without hope of remedy; which though in process of time are judged to proceed either from the Scurvy, or foul Disease, and to end in Consumptions, or Kings Evil, yet driving the inquiry back to its Root, generally it hath been found, that the Original Cause hath much more justly belonged to unwholesome Purgers or Vomiters taken in way of Physic.  
And when with their violence they have thrown up never so great a quantity of ugly ●opy or filthy stuff, which is often showed to Patients, and friends, as if now the Disease must needs be wrought upon, and near its Extirpation, it truly proveth no more but the Venomous Nature of the Medicine; the Disease for the most part rather advancing than retreating, and receiving rather an addition of strength, than any mi●tgation from such mischievous helpers.  
Seeing thus it generally is with Vomits; though sometimes they may perform what may be taken for a good Office, yet since they do it not through any benignity in them, but by disturbance, and the consequence being certainly dangerous, why should so troublesome a mischief-working-operation be longer retained in practice, or be imposed as necessary upon distressed patients in time of sickness? and not rather gladly remitted for such truly virtuous Medicines, as through their powerful friendliness to Humane Nature, being taken into the body, perform with ease and safety, only, what the present necessity of the body requireth: so as if the Disease be such as requireth the emptying of the Stomach, throweth up, or carrieth downwards so much and no more but what is requisite for promoting the most speedy recovery, without any possibility of any after inconvenience, as hath been the constant prevalence of those real Medicines herein proposed; And in Reason may well deserve the serious thoughts of all ingenious persons, before they are further engaged in ways so uncertain and dangerous, though of never so long continuance.  
The next prescription in Physic, is commonly Sweeting, which is attempted, either with the vulgar Waters, Electuaries, or Powders, or else with Mineral Preparations, and had it not been for the known uncertainty and deficiency of the former, there had been no recourse to the latter, which instead of proving a sure Refuge in time of need, hath generally treated the distressed with like adulation, as hers who cut the locks, or struck a nail into the Temple, frequently outsweating all the powers of Nature, or running madly out into salivation, or perpetual spitting, which are the ordinary Extravagant Effects of Quicksilver and Antimony, though under the most boasted Preparations, and whereof there are so many sad stories, as needs a Veil to cover their mischievous treacheries, and are more then enough, if but a little harkened after, to induce all rational persons, for ever to renounce both the giving and taking of them into their bodies upon any occasion whatsoever.  
Yet if there be any, who nevertheless will retain a confidence of the safety of their preparations, see them take them themselves before you take them, and then you have some assurance for your great adventure.  
But for me who deem it irrational, that any thing should be given to the sick which is not safe, and good for the healthful, and who am undoubtedly assured; that there are Medicines as securely to be used in all Cases as Milk to Children, which yet in the most desperate Cases, are full as speedy and as certainly prevalent, as ever was pretended from those so extremely hazardous and dangerous Minerals, and that too, with very little or not sweeting at all, but ever without Exhausting the spirits, drying or binding of the body, or any other after inconveniencies, having always in readiness plenty of such as these, and approved for such by continual performances, I hope I may pass without blame, though I retain my judgement, and press thus earnestly for an exchange, where the advantage to every one is so manifestly weighty and material.  
The nexr sore troubler of the sick, are Vescicatories, or Raiser's of small and great Blisters, by irksome fretting, if not venomous Plasters, sometimes flaying off all the skin from the backs, otherwhiles the shoulders, legs, or wrists, the neck, head, etc. to extreme torments, especially when those raw places are rubbed and irritated, for diversion of venomous inflammations, hideous Curses and Excrations having been noted the impatient Effects of such cruelties; of which Nature also are the use of Cupping Glasses, drawing of Silk through the Neck-skin, Leeches; and Issues, all full of pain, hazard, and danger; And as the Event proveth them, frequently fruitless, as to the removal of any Distemper, so are they wholly needless, where real Medicines are in being, and must henceforth be accounted the more intolerable, since it is known so many notable Cures have been performed without any such tedious assistants, solely by such Medicines.  
Then for cutting off the Hair, Capping and Plastering the Head, they are all but troublesome Operations to the sick, very seldom proving successful, either in Consumptions, or for removal of inveterate pains, for which ends they are most used, and with more advantage might be spared in lieu of safe and powerful Medicines.  
And so also were it happy if Patients in like manner were rid of Opium, let what will be said of its several Rectifications, for whether it be used in the Laudanum, or otherwise; the Event is oftentimes so suddenly, and so unexpectedly, and so unavoidably dangerous, that the knowledge of its aptness to miscarry, as it hath done with divers, is more then enough to make every Dispenser of it to tremble, during the whole time it is in the Patient's body. And therefore in reason should gladly be left and abandoned for ever, having never since I have been furnished with the Medicines herein specified, though in the most violent distempers, seen any occasion for the use of so critical helpers, that instead of rest and sleep, like treacherous flatterers, stroke, and stab, and give Death itself in the same instant, to the horror and amazement both of Physicians and bewailing relations.  
Which by truly good and real Medicines, might be safely avoided, such by their efficacious prevalence against the venom of the Distemper in short time, not failing to introduce an unenforced well proportioned sleep, not only void of all possibility of danger, but without sickishness upon waking, afrer-dotages weakness of the Nerves, or any dispiriting of the Animal Faculties, Palsies, Vertigoes, Apoplexies, the frequent Issues of opumated Medicines.  
And therefore though I am far from wishing so much evil to the Practisers with Opium, that every of them should be obliged to take the same quantity which at any time they prescribe: (which yet is one of the Rules I always bind myself to in whatsoever I advise) yet I do hearty wish, that the whole Old Method of Physic aforementioned in all the particulars of Glisters, Bleedings, Purge, Vomiting, Sweatings, by Minerals, Issues, Cuppings, Blistering, etc. were all so well and throughly opiated, stupefied, and laid asleep for ever, that they might never more rise again in Reputation with Physicians, or ever more be readmitted by distressed Patients.  
But that both out of a most powerful ingenuity which most good Consciences are full fraught withal; And out of a deep sense of the manifold mischiefs incident to that way, would freely and fully forsake them all; and exchange them for the use of such true, and real Helpers, as are known to perform the utmost in all Cases that can be expected from Medicine; and that with so much mildness and safety, as disturbs not, nor hazards the weakest in their Operations.  
And which, both by Physicians and ●●tients: And all persons, and Families, may certainly be known to be such, and plainly to differ from all Medicines that are not such: By these Marks following.  
1. A truly benign Medicine, fit for the Sublime Humane Nature ought to be liquid, transparently clear, pure and pleasant: (for reasons expressed in my touchstone of Physic) so powerful, as to subdue the most violent Distempers, and yet so mild, as the weakest women and children may partake thereof in any case without hazard: And for assurance, the Prescriber is to take the same quantity he gives upon any occasion.  
2. All such kindly and real Medicines ought to be so qualified, that if taken by Men, Women, or Children, in Health, shall no ways move their bodies, but nourish and cherish them. But if by any in sickness, the same quantity from their effectual friendliness to humane Nature in due time, shall either bind or loosen, vomit, or stay vomiting; sweat, or restrain excessive sweeting, give rest in case of restlessness, or withhold from immoderate sleep, as the instant necessity of the body needeth, or as conduceth most to Recovery.  
3. And lastly, They ought to be no perishable Commodities, which prove but weak and defective helpers, but such as close stopped keep good for years in all Climates without any Diminution of their virtues, never failing or decaying upon their hands, who furnisheth themselves therewith, either for Sea or Land, or that rely and depend upon them for relief in any their occasions or necessities.  
These are the Marks which are sufficient for proof of the fitness or unfitness of all Medicines whatsoever; and for detection of all such as may, and no doubt will be counterfeiting of these, or at least some of them, as soon as they grow into any Estimation, and are called for by the sick; Then who that practices will be without some such spiritful preparation about them, that so it may be thought they are not wanting in any thing for their recovery; & well it were if it were so indeed: But being really such, they are then not to molest their Patients, either with Purge, Vomiting, Bleedings, Issues, Glisters, Blisters, nor with any thing of Antimony, Quicksilver, or Opium, there being no need of such hazardous and dangerous operations or operators, but are all totally to be abandoned where there are Medicines of those absolute Marks and Qualifications; so as if in the least they tamper one while with a Glister, anotherwhile with a Purge or a Vomit, etc. though now and then they should give a Dose, resembling such as these, it signifies just nothing, but that they would seem to have as much as any, when at the same time, it is manifest they themselves have no confidence therein, nor no dependence thereupon, but according to their old Mode, are fain on all occasions to have recourse to their old perplexed medlyes; therefore it's good to be wary, and to note all such Counterfeitters of Medicines, as but Counterfeit Practisers, more mindful of their own reputations, then of the recovery of their Patients: the Marks are few, easy to be minded, and to be applied wheresoever, or by whomsoever any Medicines are presented and prescribed, and in reason should sway in every one's Election or rejection accordingly.  
Or however for myself, I shall never be ashamed to acknowledge, that it is to these Marks solely that I have confined all my Medicines: And that for this way; This untrodden Path in Physic, so acquired as I have expressed, I have forsaken, and abandoned all the troublesome and dangerous courses, Materials, Operations and Practices forementioned; and still see good cause to bless God that ever I was Enabled to make so happy an Exchange, for the benefit of mankind; at least to so many as the difference of those two ways, shall come to be ingeniously and throughly considered. A difference so great, the one bringing abundant troubles, pains, hazards and dangers, and attended with weep, woes and lamentations: the other with quiet, ease, safety, hopefulness and cheerfulness: so that the profit of this Exchange in itself rightly understood, cannot but appear inestimable and unexpressible, yet so hardly (with many) are old ways left though never so painful and perplexed; Or new ways embraced, though never so safe, easeful and free from all disturbance (the averseness being generally whetted by some sinister interest) that without perpetual insisting in a full discovery of the Advantages and disadvantages, there would be no hope of Prevailing for such a condescension as in this weighty Cause is agreeable to Truth and Reason.  
But all things have their season; Evangelical Doctrine bringing nothing but peace, though long opposed by the Legal, which brought nothing but terror to the sinsick Conscience, yet in time as truth prevailed, became clearly victorious, both over the Law, and their Interest that would maintain it: And so in time I doubt not, but it may also prove in this, as the difference once comes to be rightly understood; for however Custom and Interest may have so prevailed & enchained men's minds, as almost in every sickness, to reckon no other, but that there is a necessity of undergoing all those painful, cruel, dangerous, and mischievous practices and proceed afore recited; yet certainly when they shall be serious in their thoughts, and plainly see that there is another way in Physic Established upon more sure Foundations and Principles, and another sort of Medicines arising from these Principles, which cure with much more certainty, and yet wholly exempt from all terrors, pains, and dangers, and that may by every one be known to be such by Evident Marks and Characters, and by abundant Instances of Cures performed solely by such Medicines, as in the touchstone of Physic plentifully appeareth: There will then certainly be no place for opposition, nor need of farther Arguments to persuade their cheerful Entertainment, nor to doubt a general adherence to their assistance, by all Persons and Families.  
For whose clear understanding, and more easy ordering of them to their own, their Friends, and Relations, occasions in any Distempers or necessities.   

I shall here acquaint them with their particular Titles, Virtues, and Uses, with all requisite Circum stances as followeth.  

As 1. Refugium vitae.  
Exceedingly behoveful and prevalent in all sudden frightful and confused distempers, afflicting either the Head, the Breast, the Stomach, Bowels, Mother, or any other part of the body, with, or without Vomiting, Looseness, Gripe, to be given with confidence 2 or 3 spoonfuls, to Children, and from 6 to 12 spoonfuls to those of years, and at three hours may be repeated (or the like quantity given again) and so as long as there is occasion, warm or cold, at 8 s. the pint, in Colds, Surfeits, Agues, Fevers, Convulsions; etc. is of singular advantage.   

2. Sanguis vitae.  
In all Distempers of Stomach and Bowels, gripping in the Guts, Surfeits, Vomitings, Agues, new Fevers; first signs or fears of the Pestilence, small Pox, Measles, and in all such cases to be well heated; the Dose or quantity from four spunfuls to 12. yea to six Ounces if need require, but for conservation of health may be used cold familiarly, to a quarter or half pint at a time, as every one pleases, the price is 2 s. the pint.   

3. Adjutrix vitae.  
For Appetite and Digesture; a pleasing Cordial for all times, the Dose from 2 to 6 or 8 Ounces; best between meals; is good also in any Spoon-meat, or drank in Milk against Consumptions, the price is 2 s. the pint.   

4. Vis vitae.  
For Dropsy, Scurvy, Spleen, Wind, Gravel, Strangury, Stopage of Water, or of the natural course, or in swell from thence, or other sweatings; the Dose from two to six Ounces, and at 4 hours may be repeated, and continued, till occasion cease; Also may be familiarly taken for prevention of all such Distempers, and for conservation of health and cheerfulness, at 3 s. the pint.   

5. Succus vitae.  
For Convulsions, Palsies, Falling-sickness, Mother-fits, etc. the dose from two to 4. and six ounces, and at 4 hours' distance may be repeated (or taken in like quantity again) and to be continued as long as occasion requireth, at the pint 5 s. 4 d.   

6. Lac vitae.  
For Rickets, Worms, Green-sickness, Diseases of the Mother, and weakness, or sikicshness of the stomach, the Dose is as the last, and to be repeated, and continued as long as there is occasion, the price also is 5 s. 4 d. the pint.   

7. Radix vitae.  
In Coughs, shortness of breath, Vomiting, Looseness, Griping, pains in the Head or Stomach, in Fevers also and Pestilence, or any occasion with, or without Fevers, Agues, etc. The Dose from 2 to 6. Ounces, or larger quantities; and to be repeated and continued as long as there is occasion, the pint is 6 s. note that 3 small usual spoonfuls make an ounce.   

8. Nutrix vitae.  
For Consumptions, Defluxions, a great strengthner; also may be familiarly used for preservation of health, strength, and cheerfulness, from 2 to 4, 6 or 8 ounces, the pint 8 s.   

9 Salus vitae.  
For all difficult Cases, Infectious, Feverish, Pestilential or Dangerous; in Small Pox, Measles, Agues of all kinds, with Vomitings, Looseness, Gripe, Virulent Scaldings, or Itchings over the body, sore Mouth, or Throat, violent Coughing, Headache, or Toothache, with or without swell; the Dose from 2 to 4, and 6 Ounces, and after 4 hours' time to be repeated, and continued as there is occasion, at 8 s. the pint.   

10. Medulla vitae.  
For Wastings, and all Weaknesses, especially in fears of miscarriage, of singular efficacy against Consumptions, with, or without Oeavers; the Dose from two to four and six ounces, but in Milk as warm as from the Cow, or in Oatmeal and Milk; or any other Spoon-meat, as nothing is like pleasant, so also is nothing a more powerful strengthner, or improver of Nature; two spoonfuls to a mess sufficeth, at 12 s. per pint.   

11. Deliciae vitae.  
Against Sadness, Melancholy, a great reviver, and though the dose be from 2 to 4, and 6 ounces, yet half a spoonful held in the mouth a while, and after swallowed generally, makes so great a cheerfulness in the most indisposed and dejected as hath been admired, and by perseverance, altars from a sad to a cheerful constitution and conversation, the price is 20 s. the pint.   

12. Stella vitae.  
Very powerful in Swoonings, and all Extremities: As also for extinguishing most virulent inflammations in any part of the body, arising from impure venomous Causes, the Dose from 1 to 2, 4 and 6 ounces, as to the amazement of some Arts-men; and observers hath with safety, and wonderful success been even daily taken by divers; and so used, hath been also very prevalent in pleuretick shortness and suffocation of breath, in violent Vomitings, Looseness, Griping of the Guts, stopping of the stomach, stoppage of Urine, and Strangury: And though very high in Spirit and seemingly hot, yet is so safe and innocent, that the smallest children partake thereof to great advantage, the price is 12 s. the pint,   

13. Ignis vitae.  
Exceeding high in spirit, and of singular use in Lethargies, Vertigoes, swimming of the Head, Dulness of sight, and (to the wonder of Art) in violent Headache, and inflammation of the Eyes, with, or without swelling; The dose a drop 2 or three to be held a while in the mouth, forcing it up into the head, and then swallowing it: It being also a great Cordial, and to be repeated often without intermission 4, 5 or six times together any time day or night, but beast to bedward, the price is 16 s. per pint.   

14. Flos vitae.  
Fortifying the Breast, the Brain, and Memory, a recreative and refreshing Cordial, a great reliever in business, and useful at all times, the Dose from 2 to 4 and 6 ounces, the price 3 s. the pint.   

15. Elixir vitae.  
For qualifying the blood, sharpness of Urine, and of virulent Ulcerating humours, and shharp vehement pains in the body, the dose from 2 to 4, and six ounces; at 6 hours' time may be repeated, and constantly continued till occasion ceases, the price is 3 s. the pint.   

16. Vita vitae.  
A general and powerful fortifier of all the natural, vital, and animal faculties, and useful in all Cases, where there appears either deficiency in breathing, or dejection of Spirits; The dose from half an ounce to 2 or 3 ounces, and after 3 hours may be repea●ed and continued as occasion inviteth, the price is 10 s. the pint.  
These are those of the first sort assigned for maintenance of health, and for speedy relief and remedy in the first apprehensions of sickness and distempers.  
But those which are as the Mainguard, and intended for subduing and extinguishing the most violent, venomous, pestilential, and invererate Distempers, and securely to be trusted to in all Extremities: Are as followeth,  
1. Vita Naturae: In Fevers, or feverish Aguish Distempers accompanied with Jaundice, Faintness, Wind, or Crudities, or in those Distempers not Feverish: Also in violent Headache, Toothache, with, or without swell; The Dose from 2, 3, 4 to 6 ounces; and at 6 hours may be repeated and continued as long as there's occ●sion: Best a little warmed and in bed, (as also all of this sort following) the price 9 d. per ounce.  
2. Corona Naturae: In Sigh or Extreme Pensiveness, with, or without Fevers, Agues, Pestilence, etc. The Dose and use as the former, at the ounce 2 s.  
3. Servus Naturae: In Fevers, Agues, etc. with pain and heaviness of stomach; The Dose and use as the first, at the ounce 9 d.  
4. Comes Naturae: In all Feverish cases, with loss of Appetite, or other faculties of the stomach; The Dose use as the first, at the ounce 6 d.  
5. Ancilla Naturae: In stoppages of the stomach, Spleen or Liver, with, or without Fevers, Agues, etc. The Dose and use as the first at the ounce 1 s.  
6. Latex Naturae: In Fevers, Agues, etc. where Nature fails, and flesh abates; The Dose and use as the first at 1 s. per ounce.  
7. Vindex Naturae: In highest Fevers, Pestilence, Tertian or Quartan Agues, with Vomitings, or Bloodyfluxes, pains in the Head, restlessness, Gout, Small Pox, Measles; and where there is often provocation without Evacuation downward; or in any other violent or Contagious Distemper; As also for furthering of Childbirth; The Dose to Children from 1 spoonful to 2 or 3, to those of years from 2 to 3, 4 or six ounces, and at 4 or six hours' time may be repeated and continued whilst there is occasion; Except where its taste is grown distasteful: And then to be supplied by either Vita naturae, or Clavis, or Corona, or any of the rest, as reason may judge, the price is 9 d. the ounce.  
8. Anima Naturae: In Hectic Fevers, Consumptions, weakness of the Nerves, and Animal Spirits; The Dose and and use as the first, and to be continued as occasion continues, at the ounce 1 s.  
9 Athleta Naturae: In Fainting fits, shortness of Breath, violent Thirst, Pestilence, Gout, or Fevers, Vomitings, Looseness, Gripe in the Guts, etc. The dose and use as Vindex, and so to be repeated, and continued: at the ounce 1 s.  
10. Flamma Naturae: In Fevers with Palsies, Appoplexes, Convulsions, Pains in the Head, etc. The Dose from 1 to 2 or 3 spoonfuls to the younger,, to others from 2 to 3 and 4 ounces, at 6 hours may be repeated and continued as there is occasion, at 1 s. 3 d. the ounce.  
11. Firmentum Naturae: In hypocondriac Melancholy, infirmities of the Reins and Bladder, Strangury, etc. with, or without Fevers, Agues, etc. The dose and use as the first, at 1 s. the ounce.  
12. Clavis Naturae: In Fevers, Agues, or Pestilence with stuffing of the breast, Coughs, Toughness of Phlegm, Ptisick, Rasping of the stomach, Colic, distempers of the Mother, Headache, or in those distempers without Fevers: The dose and use as Vita naturae (or the first) at the ounce 9 d.  
13. Requies Naturae: In Mother-fits, Vertigoes, Falling-sickness, Convulsions, Lightness of the Head, and weakness of the Brain, with, or without Fevers, Agues, etc. The dose and use as the first, at the ounce 9 d  
14. Lumen Naturae: In the Running Gout, Scurvy, or sharp Rheumatic pains, with or without Fevers, Agues, etc. the dose and use as the Vindex, at the ounce 1 s.  
15. Arcanum Naturae: A Balsamic Cordial to be sipped, or taken with a Liquorish stick in Coughs, Consumptions, or any Distempers of the Breast or Lungs, Clamminess of Phlegm, Soreness of Tongue or Throat, at the ounce 6 d.  
16. And last, Catharticon Naturae: In impurity of the Blood, and oppression by Crudities, with, or without Fevers, Agues, etc. The dose from 2 to 4 ounces, at 8 hours' time may be repeated, and continued as there is occasion, at the ounce 9 d.  
These are the Medicines which upon all occasions I have found abundantly sufficient for all the Ends and Intentions of Physic, so that whosoever shall throughly acquaint themselves therewith, and furnish themselves with due quantities thereof, may not only easily and pleasantly and strength and vigour to their usual Diet, plenteously replenish their continual waist and Expense of Spirits, daily refresh themselves with real advantage to their health; Supply all sudden Illness or Exigencies, without all fear of after Inconveniencies; but are thereby firmly enabled, with God's blessing, to grapple with, and subdue the most violent and most inveterate diseases whatsoever, which make up the full scope of all Physical knowledge, and Medicinal performances.  
And all these without any the hazards or dangers forementioned; Are alike useful at all times and and seasons of the year, Winter, Sommer, Spring, or Autumn; safely and pleasantly to be taken by all persons in all states of health, or degrees of weakness from the very Cradle to Oldest Age, without any confinement to house, or Chamber (except in cases of Extremity,) without charge of visits, or tedious attendance, and with all possible quietness and hopefulness to the Patient.  
All which are no feigned Delusions, but real Truths, as divers who have long time solely depended on their assistance, both for themselves and Families, with absolute good success can sufficiently testify, reckoning withal, that all circumstances duly considered, they are not the dearest, but the cheapest of Physic.  
Besides as never any harm could justly be imputed to any of them; so were they never known to fail of Cure, where time proportionable to the constitution of the body, and to the quality and degree of the Distemper, hath been allowed, and Directions followed accordingly.  
But where Distemper hath taken fast hold upon a body over worn with toil, care, and business, aggravated by omission of timely medicines, and then tired out, nay confounded with intricate and unwholesome Physic; and from one sort of Medicine to another, until the Medicines have proved more mischievous, and more inveterate than the first Disease; for Patients in such difficult Cases as these, to think a month's time (or so) sufficient for recovery, failing of their hopes, rather taxes their own reason, than the validity of the Medicines.  
And yet even in such forlorn undertake, I have in very few days seen so great and so good an alteration, that had it not been destroyed by too much presuming thereupon, and thereby taking cold anew, and so losing all that was gained; There was sufficient to give assurance that time and perseverance in their plenteous use would have perfected their work; all after deviations from this course of Physic, and these Medicines never bringing the Patient to so good a condition; Nor did I ever know them laid aside for any others, but there was cause to wish they had not left them: But if ever it is in such cases as these, that this saying is verified, That there are some who will be sick too late, and well too soon: And makes me think of divers unhappy Patients, when I mind that saying, He found no steadfastness, no not in his Angels. Very few in inveterate cases being apt upon utmost persuasive arments to give a tenth part of time requisite; or having resolved to do it, that will be constant for half the time; And this not always from an instability in the Patient, but most unhappily from the odd officious meddlings of Visitants and Relations, who though wholly void of true judgement in Physic, or in the differences between what is, and what is not to be trusted to, are ever censuring the present proceed, and proposing one while this, another while that, boasting up this, and commending another, as having speedily cured divers in like cases with very small charge.  
A sort of friendship might very well be spared, and should a little more than it doth touch the Consciences of all such well meaning disturbers, if not destroyers of these whom yet with all their hearts they earnestly desire should be preserved, affectionate and zealous: errors being always most mischievous.  
For my part, I can clearly affirm, that I never gave the smallest quantity of those my Medicines to any person, in any case, but I hearty wished it might prove a perfect Cure; And it is an absolute truth, that very many in a year have been cured of such Distempers, some for the value of 6 d. some 12 d. and sometimes a very little more, that probably in any other way, could not have escaped a tedious fit of sickness, or a chargeable course of Physic, and I am never more joyed then when it is so.  
Yet this doth not argue that every one that falls ill should expect always the like success, there being so vast a difference in Constitutions, and in the nature of Diseases, in neglect of the instant use of means, and a while deferring as altars the Case beyond imagination, and which unavoidably enforces as great a difference in the difficulty and time of recovery.  
But then, how Exceedingly much more doth the Case differ when the Disease hath been of many years' continuance, and so many various Physics used time after time, that it is very presumable some of it may have been venomous, and infinitely added to the malice of the Disease: Though in such Case I should not despair of prevailing, in this way of safe and powerful Medicines; yet I should blame myself excessively should I give any hope of success, but upon an absolute promise from such patients of perseverance for at least so many Months, if not twice the number, as they have been years afflicted, and admit the charge of such a condescension, should amount to 10, nay 20 Crowns a month, which I suppose would be the most, what a small thing were this to persons of means and quality, to adventure in a course so safe, and withal so hopeful, and after hundreds, if not thousands of pounds spent in vain, in ways neither so safe nor rational, and in such hands as I am sure to gain the world, would not defer a Cure one moment; That Instance in the Touchstone of Physic, Of the Gentlewoman that was left hopeless by all her Physicians, after a long time of using their utmost Endeavours, and she brought to nothing but skin and bones, and her Disease triumphing over her weakness, when her sad Husband came to me, desiring my assistance, had he scrupulously enquired whether I had ever cured any one in so hopeless a condition, or endeavoured to have confined me to time, or been solicitous in what time I thought some hopes might appear, or where about the charge of her Cure might be; It is very like I had never undertaken her, as abhorring nothing more than such huckstering in cases of sickness where there is ability: But he leaving all wholly to me, though by reason of some relapse, it was some months before she went abroad, yet both he and she were fully satisfied with all that was done, and God blest it to her wonderful recovery. All which I have thus Expressed, if possible to make all persons concerned sensible how great a difference there may be in Distempers, seemingly alike, and how much more time may be requisite for recovery of one more than another; And to work them to a willing resignation of themselves, to whomsoever they shall think meet to trust, and without scruple, or repining either at Time or Charge, steadfastly to perseuree, especially being engaged in a way so safe, and with Medicines so kindly, and withal so powerful (as here are solely intended) and, which by the Marks foregoing may easily be tried and proved, whether they are so or not; but being such, there is all Encouragement imaginable to persist with hope and cheerfulness.  
Withal, the Patient must be sure, both in his Diet, and shunning all hazards, to be helpful to his Physician, and most careful to observe all Directions, Cautions and Circumstances advised, that being the only way to make the best of what is taken, and to keep and not lose the smallest degree of improvement obtained; for those who get and keep ground, though but by inches, are sure in the end of victory.  
But without resolving to persist in their use, (whether they are governed by Patients themselves, or their relations on their behalf, or by Physicians) I would not encourage any to begin with any of these Medicines; It being my manner always to refuse the undertaking of any that I either doubt, or will not promise to persevere with them, and strictly to adhere to Directions; upon which being resolved, none need to fear success, Answerable either to the Instances mentioned in the Touchstone of Physic, or to those Cures since performed by them.    

Some whereof to manifest that they are still the same both in Efficacy, and in Performance, I shall here recite as followeth.  
1. A Gentleman about thirty years of age, upon an Extreme cold taken with great pains over all his body, Headache, and stoppage at his stomach, I sent him 3 ounces of Vindex naturae, to be taken a little warmed last at night, which quit him perfectly of his Distemper.  
2. A Boy about 3 years old taken in so stupid a manner, as those who are said to be struck with Death, as the Parents verily thought this Child; Being somewhat far from me, they made use at first of some other means, but being worse upon it, they sent to me, I sent him a small quantity of Radix, to be given by a spoonful every hour, and 2 ounces of Salus for the night, to be taken a little warm at twice, and continued for divers days and nights, with no appearance of prevailing in the least, yet depending solely upon these Medicines, they sent to me daily; much and often they solicited me to allow a Glister, which I durst not admit, the malignity being so obstinate, besides the child had ordinary stools daily; at length I ordered 3 ounces of Athleta naturae: Upon which there followed two or three sharp and lose stools, whereupon he became perfectly well.  
3. The Brother of this Child some 2 yeas older, was soon after taken very ill also, and Feverish, but being instantly sent to, I ordered him 3 ounces of Vindex, which proved to his absolute recovery: In all which Cases, or the like, where thirst molesteth or is feared, I always appont White-wine Posset-drink to be freely taken, made with a quarter of a pint of White-wine to a quart of Milk (and not to exceed in Wine) and to use no other Drink, if they can be so persuaded, but if not, then once in four or six hours to admit a draught of 8 shillings Beer with Sugar and a Toast, which I desire may be noted as a general Rule, and not to be scrupled.  
4. A young woman lain in, and well almost to the end of her month, upon a sudden had no passage for her water; upon which I was sent to, her condition being very much feared, I sent her half a pint of Vis vitae, which being given her at twice warmed, within 3 hours' time, she became perfectly well.  
One almost 70 years of age, having contracted some foulness of stomach, and sliminess in the Ureters, was unexpectedly taken with stoppage of water; which he bore awhile as hoping it might alter of itself, being not much provoked nor pained, so eat and drank as usual; soon after, making trial he found the stoppage to continue, and withal an unusual aptness to Vomit, which he gave way unto, and brought up abundance without pain, which being ended, I ordered him to drink a quarter of a pint of Stella vitae; which he did at one draught, half an hour after, though otherwise well, yet still his water stayed, whereupon I ordered him totake a quarter of a pint of Vis vitae well warmed, which he drank off at one draught, and so laid him down upon his bed, where he slept so soundy for two full hours, that when he waked, he thought it had been but half an hour, and then trying to make water, it freely issued as at other times, and troubled him no more.  
6. An Elderly Gentleman frequently and vehemently troubled with Gripe, Wind and Looseness, using much means in Physic, being by his Physician allowed the use of Vis vitae, which generally he keeps by him always in readiness, never fails of certain relief thereby.  
7. His Wife generally troubled with Wind, and weakness of Stomach, having recourse upon all occasions to the use of Sanguis vitae, renders her life very secure and comfortable.  
8. A Gentleman sufficiently able to distinguish of Physic, being in London, his Wife being Extremely ill far off in the Country through a long crazed body, and then afflicted with intolerable pains all over, with debility of stomach, and all faculties, applied himself with very anxious solicitation to me, as dreading her immediate loss; so consulting together, we agreed to send her a quart of Radix vitae to take of in it continually, a little and little day and night, which being taken, he received and brought me very joyful tidings of her happy recovery.  
9 Awhile after the same Gentleman desired my advice for a Gentlewoman, quite stuffed up with Phlegm, and oppressed with an Extreme Cough, and defect of Appetite; upon a little discourse we agreed she should have a pint of Radix, to take a little and little all the day, and at bedtime 6 spoonfuls, and in the night a liitle and little as she sound occasion, which through God's goodness perfectly recovered her.  
10. A Gentleman about 30, highly Feverish with Vomiting, Thirst, and Headache, and sore all over his body; I sent him 3 ounces of Vindex to be taken at Bedtime, and to drink White-wine Posset made as afore is mentioned; this he took, and next morning was much mended, and omitted to take any thing all that day, but the day following I saw cause to send him 6 ounces of Lac vitae to take by sips all that day, and 3 ounces of Vindex for bedtime, which enabled him next day to come himself and give me thanks for so happy an alteration with so little trouble and cost.  
11. A Gentleman about 35, going out of London not very well, & far off in the Country, oppressed with perpetual business even night and day, his Body also being not of the firmest Constitution, fell into so Extreme a Fever, and so confusedly ill all over, that to preserve himself, he was forced to make use of such Helps and Helpers in Physic as the place afforded, which was not despicable, yet availed nothing, upon which his Friends by his Order sends to me his Condition, desiring me to send what I thought fit (for he was well acquainted with my Medicines, and used never to travel without full quantities of them) so I sent him a quart of Radix, and a pint of Vindex naturae: But so obstinate a Distemper was hardly ever heard of, for though he had after this much more and larger quantities of Radix, and of Vindex, Athleta, Lumen naturae, and Vis vitae, and Salus vitae, all which he took always with very much assurance of goo●, ●et by one occasion or other he was so often even upon the point of Death, that I became afraid to open the Letters that came from his Disconsolate friends. How it came to be thus, I could not certainly learn, though some imputed it to diversity of advice, & proceed of Physicians or Chirurgeons near him, which unnoted by him, or his dearest Friends, might perplex & nullify the operation of these Medicines: Nevertheless by Degrees he gained so much strength, or rather so much courage, as to resolve for London, where with difficulty he arrived: But his residence being near to a Physician his friend, and being then on the sudden Extreme ill, he fell into the general course of Physic which held a long time, and had very various successes, very much through a strange unchect liberty he took in Diet, helping himself notwithstanding now and then with a large Bottle of Radex, and at length got so much strength, as to adventure to refresh himself in the Country: But withal depending so much upon my Medicines, that he caused to be sent immediately after him, 7 pints of Vis vitae, and 2 pints more, before he came back, and through mercy returned, so well as to pursue his occasions, and which hath not since failed him, and seems still to have as high, if not a more high Esteem of these Medicines; and I believe he hath good cause for it, or he would not as he since hath done, commended their use to his best Friends in all their occasions. And I conceive under God ascribes unto them very much of his preservation: It being also very presumable his recovery had been far sooner, and more perfect, had he not been diverted, but solely depended on their assistance.  
12. A young Lad taken suddenly so Extreme ill and Feverish, that the Mother knowing his weak nature doubted he could not live, twice two ounces of Vindex for two nights given him, proved to his recovery.  
13. The same Lad a while after fell into another Distemper lying continually in a senseless stupid condition, I gave him 2 ounces of Vindex mixed with half an ounce of Ignis vitae for one night, and the like for next night, which perfectly cured him.  
14. A young Gentlewoman always upon taking cold, and preternatural stoppages, Extremely afflicted with sharp violent pains all over her body, but more especially in her head, never failed of recovery by the use of Radix vitae, in the daytime to the quantity of half a pint taken by little and little, and by six ounces of Vita naturae, taken by two ounces a night, for three nights together.  
15. A young Boy far off in the Country, being accustomed to Extreme fits of Crying, a Gentleman related to the Family noting how he writhed his body at such times, told the Parents he was persuaded the Child was troubled about the passage of his Water, and being well acquainted with my Medicines, advised the use of Vis vitae, which being given day and night by little and little, perfectly cured him, wherein they used about three pints, or two quarts at most, which was no great cost for persons of Quality.  
16. A youth about seventeen, strong and healthful, upon a sudden, without any manifest cause, became Extremely ill, with violent pains in his head, sickishness at his stomach, sore all over his body, with some Giddiness; it was a time when the Small Pox was very rife; but he having had them, and my advice instantly taken, I thought it best to arm, as if it might prove the Pestilence, and so gave him three ounces of Vindex, and a good quantity of Radix to use little and little, refreshing himself therewith continually: But for all this a Vomiting seized him with Extreme thirst and restlessness, and binding of his body, I wished his Kindred might be acquainted how he was, and to resolve what course to take: But it fell out, the principal of them (within reach) understood my way, earnestly desiring I would proceed, upon which I plied him continually with Salus vitae, till at length the Small Pox plentifully appears, and being ordered accordingly with due care, he soon began to feel his stomach and strength so far, that he presumed one morning to rise without a fire in his Chamber, or warming any of his Clothes, unknown to any body: This struck him down, and the Wheals began to grow flat; Then his Friend who had the chief care of him, being tome to Town, he began to be troubled that he was under an unusual Course of Physic, ordering one of his own acquaintance to take the charge of him: But this the youth refused, as being satisfied with the way he was in, and so was the Physician to whose care he was referred which was somewhat rare: So I fell to work a fresh with Vindex, Salus, Radix, and the like, and in short time, recovered him to so much strength, as made him so fond therewith, that one of his Familiars coming to visit him out of mirth and sportfulness, he urged him to sing with him some merry Catch, but the party disliking so simple a motion, fell into more seriousness with him, that he was but newly escaped from as dangerous a Sickness as ever any did: that though he were sure the worst was passed, as for his part, he as yet was not, other thoughts would better become him: But to deal plainly with you, said he, what ever you think, there may be but a step betwixt you and Death, and therefore it is fit you better prepare yourself: But this well meant advice wrought so much farther than he intended, that it had like indeed to have cost him his life, making so deep an impression, that there was no persuasion of any possibility of life, so that I was forced to redouble my Cordials, and others to convince him, that there was no fear of his present Distemper: And that now he had nothing to trouble his thoughts withal, but how to be thankful to God, and walk worthy of so great a Deliverance: which at length cured and restored him: But may serve for Caution, not to lay too much weight upon weak minds in times of sickness, nothing being more killing then the affright of Death.  
17. No sooner was he recovered, but the maid that attended him throughout his sickness, fell Extremely ill, highly Feverish with intolerable Gripe, and pains all over her body: But being plied with Vindex, Salus, and Radix, and at length with Vis vitae in respect to stoppages, in four days she perfectly recovered.  
18. A Gentleman about 30. taken with vehement pains in his left side, with stoppage of his breath, and thereby in such Extremity that he could hardly speak, and then crying out he must either bleed or die: Yet when Bleeding hath given him no relief, or so little, that his misery hath soon returned upon him: A quarter of a pint of Vindex hath clearly discharged the fit: And when in process of time he hath been troubled again in like manner, he hath found speedy remedy by a quarter of a pint of Stella, or at most half a pint: Other times by as much of Refugium, for he hath often been so afflicted, yet could never be induced to condescend to any course for rooting out the cause of the Distemper: And that because he found these remedies so certain: Now these being Pleuretick Distempers, and which are not only accompanied with violent pains and heat, and pass not off but with the avoidance of an abundance of thick Phlegm, it would amaze an ordinary Artist, that Medicines so hot as these could be so proper, and so successful as these have proved in such Cases, and which they often object to dissuade their use: But as their Objections proceed from want of a due distinction between Virtuous and Vicious heats, so hath their constant good success baffled their Objections, the Patient being not to be startled from what gives him most sure and certain Remedy, for their Groundless, if not partial counsel.  
19 Another Gentleman about 30. Extremely afflicted with a quartane Ague, to quit himself whereof, he had run the whole course of Physic, but all in vain, his cold fits being very turbulent and tedious, & his hot more long and irksome, being accompanied with intolerable thirst, and followed with such vehement Sweatings, as if he had been in a boiling Bath, which sweatings with sickishness, also continued as much upon his well nights, as upon his ill: And being much engaged in business which required his being abroad, he was full of anxious thoughts what to do for relief. When one who had good experience of my way, recommended him to me, so I gave him when he came unto me a draught of Sanguis well heated, and a quarter of a pint of Vindex for his Fit, which taking twice and not finding remedy he withdrew his hopes, and it being not my manner to press any beyond their own minds, our Proceed ceased for above a week, he harkening to his former Council, being possessed, that if any thing carried off the Cause of so great disturbance, it must be Purging and Vomiting Physic which rousing all parts of the body, and voiding so great a mass of ugly coloured and nasty filth, the Ague or what ever it be must needs out at last: Arguments indeed, with custom of knowing no better, so powerful as deceives both the Learned and unlearned parts of the whole World, and therefore no marvel if it retained this our perplexed Patient as long as he could stand, or till he was almost off of his legs: But at length wearied and tired out, Discoursing again with his friend, he told him he was to blame to Desist from my way so soon, that he was certain it was a sure way, and if followed would not fail: Why says he, why did he not tell me so then? He did, says his friend, and I told you so too, but you regarded it not, besides says he, you are to urge him to do his utmost, and to spare for no cost, if you mean to be cured, and not to expect that he should press you; that having such a show of self respect, as is abhorred by all ingenious Artists: Upon this he returns to me again, and Earnestly desires me to do my utmost for him, that he would with all his heart give twenty pounds to be cured of his Distemper. Whereupon I fell to work amain, giving him Radix to carry always about him, and to drink it in good quantity continually; Also to take every night at resting time 4 ounces of Salus, and not to rise too soon in the morning: Then for his fit he was to take a quarter of a pint of Vindex, either a little before, or just upon its entrance: And in his hot fit to sip continually of Salus vitae: And if thirst enforced, to relieve by White-wine Posset, or now and then with Table Beer, and tossed & Sugar; so pursuing this course for about ten Days, the whole work was finished, and he perfectly recovered; And this without spending much more of his twenty pounds, than fifty shillings, so far have I ever been from putting any to farther charge, than merely necessary, though it be very much to my Encouragement to have the whole in all respects wholly referred to me; Nor with me shall any over speed the worse for so doing, nor is any thing more improper or absurd, than in sickness either to starve their Cause, or to trust to halves.  
But though this Gentleman's Ague were quite discharged, and Strength and Stomach restored, and all faculties in Due State and good Condition; Yet being performed without Purging, Vomiting, Bleeding, Issues, or Blisters, or Sweaters (Except such as restrained and put an end to his most violent sweeting) this seemed so strange a Mystery to those in whose hands he had been, that they told him the work was but fallacious, & could not be perfect, but would either return upon him, or bring him into some more dangerous Distemper, and this he would certainly find, if he did not speedily take some fit Purgative to carry off the Relics; Now though this somewhat prevailed with him (as it doth upon most) yet he would be so ingenious, as to tell me what was said before he would take any thing: I told him they were so accustomed to that course, that it was no wonder they thought it necessary: But for him that had seen the Impotence of their Purges, and Vomiters, as to the subduing of his Distemper; and the powerfulness of those Medicines that did subdue it, for him to doubt that which had performed so far above his hope, and upon which he found himself so completely well, would leave Relics that must want the help of such nasty miserable helpers, should give the least Ear, or yield in the least thereto, would argue him a fit Subject to be played upon by every trifler, and never more to be assisted by such benign Medicines, as when they had done his work, must be made liable to so abominable Disparagement. Upon this he seemed fully fortified against their charming; And when next they undertook him, and in reply (to what he urged from my Discourse) said they did allow the Ague was subdued and killed: But say they, admit you kill a Dog in your house, if you let him lie there, and not quickly throw him out, he'll soon make you weary of your Habitation; Ergo, If you throw not your Dead Dog out, you must look to quit your house afore ye are ware. And this frighted him again to me with a witness; I smiled to hear this Syllogistical Conclusion, & putting out a Candle that was before us, I asked him where was the flame, he said it was Exstinguish't, I asked him whether there were any Danger to be feared from it; he said no; I asked him why? he said, because it was Extinguished: I told him so it was with his Ague, the Venom which caused all his various Disturbances being also Extinguished by the Virtue & Efficacy of the benign and powerful Medicines he had taken, whose good qualities were such, as to leave nothing behind, but what they put Nature into an ability to Evacuate: And this satisfied him; and it was well it did; for though it be the common Course, and frequently passeth without manifest prejudice, yet as here it was wholly needless, so hath it sometimes proved extremely pernicious: For,  
20. A Child being very strangely ill, the Parents not knowing what to do, the Mother advising with me, I gave her two ounces of Vindex, because, whether it might prove the Measles, Smallpox, Fever, Pestilence, or Ague, the Medicine was very proper. This being given to the Child by a spoonful every half hour: The next Day the Smallpox appeared, after which being plied with Salus now and then half a spoonful, they came out full, ripened, shalled off kindly, and the Child perfectly well, very much to the joy of the Parents: But Neighbours and Visitants, and Kindred were not so satisfied, and by all means the Child must be Purged, or one Evil or other would certainly attend him, which at length the Parents yielded to, so the Child was purged as they will needs still call it, and very well upon it for a while, but soon after was taken with such strange fits, as he was then thought to be bewitched, and was very like to have cost his life: So here the imaginary Dead Dog was changed for a real tearing Bear, that through its Venomous Nature tortured and toused the Child even to Death: And yet this, nor any reason or Argument will prevail, but let one recover either out of Pestilence, Fever, Ague, Smallpox, Meazels or Surfeit, the first thing is thought on, oh by all means, the relics of the Distemper must be cast off by some gentle Purge, or mischief follows, yea if ever the party be ill again, it shall be sure to be ascribed to the want of Purging after such or such a sickness: In such simple bondage both the weak and wise, remain even in this inquisitive generation. In so much that two young ones by help of Salus vitae, lately well recovered from the Small Pox: The person concerned in them, told me he was so pelted by some of his Physical neighbours to Purge them, that though it went against his own reason, yet he could have no quiet without it: So to be sure from after claps, between them he gave last at night 3 ounces of Salus vitae, to which under God, their so speedy recovery was justly to be ascribed: And which is not only a good Medicine against a Dead, but a mad Dog too, if need were, or it could never have performed in Pestilent Fevers, and all venomous Distempers as it hath done.  
21. A Gentleman about 35. by over much toiling, travelling, and puthering in business, not only for himself, which had been more then enough, but for help of others involved in troubles; brought himself (by ill and Disorderly Diet, and many times unwholesome Lodging) into so ill a habit of body, that at length wrought itself into a most violent sickness and inflammation, which he sought to remedy by the best of means and counsel he could get, under which he continued so long, till his flesh, and strength, and stomach, utterly failed, whilst his Distemper instead of abating, heightened, and increased upon him, so that what further to do he knew not: In this sad condition he was recommended to me about the beginning of Winter.  
The first I gave him was a quarter of a pint of Stella vitae a little warm, which he drank at one Draught, and about a quarter of an hour after, the same quantity of Vis vitae well heated; upon which I wished him to sit down by the fire, and either drowse or sleep; so he slept about an hour, and waked very much refreshed, and with great Exemption from those Violent pains, and sharp inflammations that afflicted him. And after this manner was he plied for some 14 days, in which time as his Distemper abated, his stomach and strength advanced, and enabled him to pass currently about his occasions, not staying within Doors one hour for any thing he took, a convenience which he confessed trebled the charge of his Cure.  
After this I now and then for the nights gave him a quarter of a pint sometimes of Salus, and other times Vindex, and Radix he used to carry about him, to take of it at all times. So in process of time, and these powerful Means, the vehemence and venom of the Distemper was wholly driven outward into an Extreme Itch, with which being sometime much molested, I gave him of Elixir vitae half a pint at a draught, and a quantity to take as much every night; And so with the Expense of 3 pints, absolutely discharged that also; and then he reckoned himself as well, and hearty as ever he was in his life.  
Now though most of the Medicines he took were of that heat, especially the stella as would have affrighted any Practiser whatsoever to have given one quarter of the quantity he at any time took; yet during all the time, he never found any inconvenience by heat or thirst, or binding of his body, but on the contrary had stools much more than ordinary, and is become a Champion in defence of their Real Virtues, against all suggestions he frequently met with, from such as thought themselves loser's by this way of his happy recovery.  
22. A young man taken very violently with gripping in the Guts, and having continued so for a considerable time, his friends applying themselves to me, I sent him a quarter of a pint of Stella to be heated and drank off by him, and it perfectly cured him.  
23. About the same time also a Gentleman between 30 and 40, taken with a violent Looseness, and Griping, the same quantity of Stella heated, absolutely cured.  
24. A Gentleman near sixty, much endangered by a Fever, and all usual means prevailing nothing, sent to me, I sent him 4 ounces of Vindex Naturae to be taken half at bedtime, and the rest within the night, and the like next night, which recovered him perfectly.  
25. A young Gentlewoman near the end of lying in upon some cold taken, was extremely afflicted with Gripes, and Vomiting, I sent her 4 ounces of Vindex, and as much next Day, and so she recovered.  
26. A Gentleman about thirty, naturally of much life and Spirit, sorely molested with a Quartan Ague, upon recommendation of a friend who had great experience of my Medicines, earnestly desired my best assistance, and not to spare for cost, so I plied him daily with Radix, and every night with Salus, and with Vindex for his fit, and this for about 8 days at the least without any sign of abatement, or remission, which as it was very much to his discouragement, so it made me also amazed to think of it, and resolved, except I suddenly heard better news from what I then sent him, to tell the party that came between us, that certainly there was something in the business they had not discovered, or that Exceeded all I could comprehend, and to wish him to take some other Council, nothing being more trouble some to my mind, then to see things go quite cross to my reasonable expectation, but for five days after not hearing from him, I concluded he was either Dead, or had put himself into other hands; But when I least expected, the messenger came to me, desiring me to send him somewhat to support his spirits, as he went about his occasions, I asked what was become of his Ague, and found he was absolutely quit of it; The party telling me that that night he took the last things I sent him he had 6 or 7 large stools which quite Discharged his Ague, and that ever since he had been very well, only upon stirring a little faint: And truly this manner of effect I have often noted in obstinate Distempers, for that which I always give being not slight, insignificant, but powerful friends to Nature, cannot possibly be utterly frustrate, but first or last must some way or other prevail for good, as here by Purgation, so sometimes by Vomit, when their forces by frequent repetition become so united, as not to be resisted; And this way of Operation, as it hath Established my hope in all I give; So may it be of good assurance to Patients though for a time they see little or no alteration; For that which is good in itself, and powerful, and taken in full quantity, frequently when least looked for, produceth even above, and beyond all hope Imaginable; And is the peculiar blessing of Prudence, in Patients, and Perseverance under the use of means so certainly safe, and so prevalent as these upon all occasions have been approved.  
But this Gentleman adventuring too much upon his mettle before confirmation of his strength, before two months came to an end renewed his Ague; and being much nearer to other means than mine, sell into the common Road of Physic, under which in few days he ended his life, somewhat under the blame of his Relations, for declining his own Reason and Experience, but is the usual fruit of Instability, and Inconstancy.  
27. A young Child so ill and stupid, that none knew what to what of it as the manner is, was excused and laid upon toothing so long till help was almost too late, the Father Disired my advice, so I ordered two ounces of Salus vitae to be given by a spoonful every hour, which before it was quite taken, gave an appearance to the small pox, and so he perfectly recovered.  
28. A Gentleman far in the Country, having contracted a very ill habit of body, with weakness of Stomach, and aptness to vomit; By the use of Vis for days, and Salus for night, in less than a month's time was restored to a far better condition.  
29. A Gentlewoman having a young Daughter very much languishing under a Distemper and weakness, like that of the Green-sickness; by the use of three quarts of Vis vitae (taken thrice every day between meals, and last at night) ● spoonfuls at a time, recovered into a very good condition.  
30. A Gentlewoman very much stuffed in her breast with Cough and shortness of breath, by three quarts of Flos vitae taken thrice every day, and a little in the night, became very well and hearty.  
31. A Gentleman of somewhat a weak Constitution, through many occasions both at home and abroad, subject to Heats, Colds, Weariness, and thereby frequently to illness, and sometimes to very Dangerous fits of sickness, using in all such times full and large quantities of Salus, Vindex, Stella and Radix, freely and seriously professes, that he believes they have often, by taking the value of a quarter of a pint saved him both a fit of sickness, and a chargeable course of Physic; And that in his extremity of sickness they have saved his life, when it was in his judgement impossible for any other kind o● Physic to have done it, having seen to his grief, as he says, divers of his friends fail and fall under the best of the usual practice: And which hath so confirmed his Opinion of their safety and Efficacy, that he solely under God Depends upon them for support of his no small Family, and whereby both to his Son and Servants, so much hath been performed both in Small Pox, and Griping of the Guts, and other illness as might well make out many weighty instances: But where as in this large Family they are always at hand, and in readiness, it's hardly credible how frequent and how speedy very great Inconveniences are daily prevented.  
But for this Griping of the Guts, which every week risen higher in the Bills of Mortality, as many times to exceed an hundred, as I have never known any so Distempered to fail under these Medicines; So I do verily believe they would have proved a perfect Remedy to whosoever had relied upon them; And it troubled me Exceedingly they were made no more use off in that Mortal Distemper, by those who undertook its Cure, or that those who were concerned took no more bead to them, whilst with a little consideration, and small Cost, they might have cured themselves, which is the main intention of this Treatise.  
32. A young Maiden, by overmuch toiling above her strength, taking cold, fell into a Feverish Distemper, which stopping the course of Nature, strange pains flew all over her Body, and into her head especially; Some Artist at hand presently bleeds her, but that proving rather to the increase, than abatement of her Distemper; I was desired to help what I could, I ordered 3 ounces of Vindex naturae for the night, and half a pint of Vis vitae for the Day. And this repeated next night, and next day, reduced her to a very good condition.  
33. The Father of this young Maid, being tortured with violent pains of the Srangury, and stoppage of his water, sending to me, I sent him only half a pint of Vis vitae, which he had no sooner taken, but he found instantly a perfect release, both from pain and stoppage, to his Extreme joy & satisfaction: But this also is a Family long time used to a Dependence upon these Medicines, unto which there belongs so many stories of Cures performed by them for young and old, as would take up a larger room than is needful at this time.  
34. An Elderly full bodied Woman, troubled, and almost strangled often with stoppage of the stomach, and Vapours flying up into her breast and throat, hath not failed of relief by half a pint of Sangis vitae well heated, and drank off in an hours time.  
35. One about 27, of long time troubled with a vehement pain in his Legs, yet nothing to be seen, having used sometimes one Plaster, and then another instead of ease, redned and pimpled all over, swelling somewhat, but itching so extremely, that by scratching became extremely painful and tedious to him; Ask my advice, I smelled the Plaster, and found it too hot and rank, so I ordered him to put no kind of Plaster any more to it, but to moisten a fine Cloth or Linen stocking with fine Tallow dropped in fair Water, and to keep that on till that Leg was like the other, which happily proved to be so in some five or six nights: Then as to his inveterate pain, I gave him a pint of Elixir vitae to take by a quarter every night last; and so with two pints more so used, his pain became absolutely Extinguished; only with this I enjoined him the forbearance of Wine, strong Drink, Cheese, large Meals, or any thing over salt, or hard of Digestion, and to use none other Suppers, but Spoon-meat, which perfected the work.  
And this also begot a whole Family of Patients which though not many in number, yet had many various occasions very remarkable, and very much to his satisfaction, as on all opportunities he takes very much pleasure to Demonstrate: And though often tempted, yet would never admit any other Physician to come into his house.  
36. A young sucking Child troubled with a Wind Rupture, and such Convulsion-like fits, that the most able Physicians knew not what to make of them, being thereby, and by various Physic brought almost past all hope of recovery, my assistance was earnestly desired by his Parents to whom as being their only Child he was very dear; I told them, that though there were no certainty of it,, yet he might possibly be recovered, but than it must be by perseverance in the use of fit means, which if they pleased to allow, I would faithfully do my utmost, they said they were so well satisfied of my Integrity, and the hopefulness of my way, that they would confine me neither in time nor cost; Whereupon I advised 3 ounces of Vindex to be given, a spoonful every two hours, and two spoonful in the time of his fits: This somewhat mitigated them, but this not willingly taken but by force, put the Child almost into a fit every time he took it, upon this, I changed it for Clavis naturae, which was freely taken; And with which being plied for some two months, brought the Child into a very perfect state of health, to the Exceeding joy of his Parents, and all their Relations.  
37. A Gentleman about 40, taken very ill and Feverish, and under much perplexity whom to trust, upon some Encouragement of friends, and Discourse with me, put himself into my hands, and in three Days by the assistance of Radix vitae; to his wonder became perfectly well and hearty.  
38. An Elderly Gentlewoman being taken with Extreme Gripes and Looseness, seeking to me for help, missing of me, sell into other hands, but finding no help, sent to me, so I sent her half a pint of Salus vitae to be taken at thrice in 3 hours' time, which restored her perfectly to her health.  
39 One who had three young Children all at one time sick of Agues, I ordered her a quart of Sanguis to be given to each of them a spoonful two or three (as they would freely take) once in two hours, and Double the quantity in their fits in which course with three Quarts they all recovered.  
40. A Gentlewoman troubled often with Fevevers and Fits of the Mother, generally recovered by Succus vitae.  
Her Husband also afflicted with an Extreme Cough, which his neighbours would frequently tell him it would be a Churchyard Cough, which is an unhandsome way of Discouragement, wherewith many do a great deal of mischief to weak people, by the use of Salus, Radix, Vindex, and Stella, perfectly recovered. And when after much busseling in business, he had contracted a most inveterate Ague, by these medicines also he recovered. Also a son of theirs that had such strange Fits, that most that saw him in them, would judge him bewitched, by help of Salus recovered. And a very young Child of theirs, taken with a most tearing violent hooping Cough, by help of Succus vitae mixed with a third part of Refugium, soon quitted the hooping: But then he fell into Convulsion Fits so fierce and frequent, that they never saw, nor I ever heard the like, in so much as they were out of all hope; yet so long as it lived would not omit the use of means, desiring me to spare for nothing I thought might give it relief: Upon which I ordered half a pint of Salus vitae, (the Child being Extremely hot; thirsty, and Feverish also) to be given by a spoonful every half hour, so that was soon spent, and an other, and a third also, and then long and slippery strong stools succeeded, after which he soon perfectly recovered: But this being a Family that is never without Sanguis for ordinary occasions; nor Lac vitae for worms, Salus vitae, or Radix: I should be over large if I should recount all the advantages they have received by them, and by which being taken in time, they prevent many mischievous inconveniences.  
41. A Gentleman about 30, having often recovered from threatening sicknesses, and having seen his wife much assisted by them in time of Childbirth, and his bothers Exceedingly relieved in Melancholy, and in Extreme Fits of the Gout, is arrived to such an Esteem of their absolute and General fitness for man's body, that he professes seriously to believe, that it would be much for man's happiness to forsake all other, both Beer, Ale, and Wine, and even at meals, and all other occasions to drink no other drink: And that had he the World at will (as they say) he avouches he would do it, so this is a Family you'll say to the purpose.  
42. A young Gentlewoman full of Difficulty in Childbirth, upon taking 2 ounces of Vindex mixed with an ounce of the tincture of Saffron, (which I keep always in readiness of an Extraordinary virtue) instantly became a happy Mother. But towards the end of the Month, taking an Extreme Cold, was afflicted with violent Gripe, and Faintings that they could hardly keep life in her; so that she was fain to take in a little space 4 ounces of Vindex, and as much Stella, which soon eased her, and after those half a pint of Radix, slowly used, perfected her health.  
43. Another young Gentlewoman full of Difficulty with her first Childbirth, found also present help by the last mentioned Cordial in like occasions; and indeed, by long and large Experience, stands as an undoubted assistant in all such cases: This Child also proving somewhat sickly, and sometime Dangerously, hath never failed of speedy remedy, by Radix, Salus, Succus mixed with Refugium when fits appeared, and is so confirmed, that both for herself, and husband, and friends as far as she can persuade with them these Medicines are solely depended on; and this not only because of these Successes, but wh●n before marriage she lived in much perplexity about the Small Pox, after she once understood the almost certainty of recovery by my Medicines she cast all fear away, and not much shunning the infection as she used to do, had them, but using timely Salus vitae, was not sick at all (so much difference is there between fear and not fear) and was well instantly. Then when being with child, a bleeding took her, somewhat threatening, and other times fear of miscarriage, having recourse to these, she became soon quit of her Distempers; So this also proves another testimony, of their fitness to be Established Physic for Families.  
44. In the next place I should recount the manifold remarkable Cures performed by them in another worthy Family, Being the same, where that strange recovery of the young Gentlewoman, referred to afore, and recited in the Touchstone of Physic: But truly they are so many, that I choose rather to omit them all, then to make so large an Enumeration, Especially considering how ready they will be on any occasion, to aver their safety and Efficacy in all Cases, wherein they ever used them; and it is a very considerable time, that they have under God solely Depended upon them, even in all Extremities.  
45. A Gentleman well seen in my Medicines, comes hastily to me for a Child Exceedingly troubled with Convulsion fits, so as there was very small hope of life, and said I, you will have me Engage, and so the Death of it (by those that will neither understand you nor me) shall be imputed to what I sent it, but he would have no Denial, so I sent two ounces of Succus mixed with an ounce of Refugium, which given to the Child by spoonful and spoonful at near an hours Distance, so prevailed, that the Child recovered, and had never any fit after it.  
46. A Gentleman and no stranger to Physic, nor to my way, his Wife being Exceedingly and often afflicted with Mother-fits, and being to take a long journey, gave her a pint of Refugium, for her relief in case of extremity; And he told me afterwards she thought it saved her life.  
47. A Lad about fourteen or fifteen taken with a Violent pain and swelling in his knee, had something given him to anoint it and a Plaster: but without any ease or remission; his Mistress telling me of it, I gave her half a pint of Sanguis vitae, advising it be taken one half that night hot in bed, and the other half next night; she laughed and said, this was Chirurgeons work, what could Sanguis do to a swelled knee, (she was one who for herself and Family had long time solely Depended on my Medicines, and so I did believe she thought it Chyrurgians work, or she had referred him to me at first) I told her 'twas no great nor Difficult matter I advised, yet such as I hoped would answer her desire, so it was given, and the venom being extinguished, the swelling fell, and the knee remained perfectly well as the other; And so I hope, neither I, nor my Medicines shall ever be hit in the teeth with the chargableness of this Cure: Nor shall I insist upon the manifold Cures performed for this Family, where there is always a readiness to justify, That there is no physic so proper for Families, as they are, at least in their judgements.  
48. A Gentlewoman between 30 and 40, in Difficulty of Chidbirth, speedily relieved by the Cordial afore mentioned, but before the end of the month, striving above strength to be a Nurse, fell into a most tedious Ague, of which in about ten Days being cured, by the continual taking plenty o● Radix in the Day time, and Salus, or Vindex, or Clavis, or Vita naturae every night, and sometimes Stella, and othertimes Refugium for her Fits; Being very well and hearty for some time, became on the sudden Extremely afflicted with violent pains all over her body, which because she was accustomed to Fits of the Mother, and by all about her taken for those, had very may precious Cordials given her for the same, yet not only without any the least mitigation, but settled with such perpetual, and such intolerable pains in her stomach, that greater could not be imagined, whereupon I inquired how it was with her, as to her natural course, and found they had long time been absent, so then immediately I caused her to take a pint of vis vitae in three hours' time; upon which in the midst and height of her torment she would fall fast asleep for two hours together, and so by plying her day and night only therewith, in less than a weeks time, no one could be in a more settled or healthful condition.  
But she also is one of a Family, That from the youngest to the Eldest for all occasions (and very many they have had) solely under God depends upon these medicines, and very much to their satisfaction.  
49. A Gentleman near 30, overwrought to compass matters of Importance, admitting no deferment upon a journey in bad ways and weather, returned somewhat ill, yet so as he was enforced next morning to begin another, when (as one said after) there was some appearance of the Small Pox, yet than he must go, or the opportunity ever lost, 'twas not far, but tedious through his indisposition, and matters sorting to his mind, bore up for his return home, but no sooner there, but head, and heart, and stomach most violently out of order; so, as one who with his whole Family had long depended solely under God upon my Mesticines; He took a large quantity of Salus, as upon half a pint in three hours' time, and last at night, 4 ounces of Vindex towards morning, his wife perceived apparent signs of the Small Pox, but for fear of Discouraging him forbore to speak of it, withal a violent looseness took him, which being upon those Cordials could not have been hurtful, had he not in that case through dislike of his attendant upon every occasion risen out of his bed, upon which taking cold as the looseness increased, so the Pimples sank in, and an Extreme Fever ensued; with headache, thirst, and restlessness, and which though he took Radix, and Salus hourly, and every night last, Vindex, or vita or Clavis, or Athlaeta, besides within night the Arcanum, Stella, Refugium, etc. yet in three days time there was no usiible remission, but rather advanced towards lightness of head, with a Mouth and Throat, sore and scurft all over. Besides my care, he had a Worthy and skilful friend that often visited him; But seeing the course taken, preserved from Extremes, Did not in the least interpose; at length noting how great a quantity he had taken, and the small effect produced, being full of thoughtfulness, I grew jealous of my Medicines, and proposed to mine; and his Worthy Friend, the use of Coolers, which upon consideration was assented to, and preparations ordered: But upon this Resolve, some reflecting upon the high venomous nature of the Distemper: That all along he was admitted White-wine Posset-drink, and in four hours' time a Draught of Beer and Sugar, with a toast which moistened and cooled as much as consisted with safety: that in all my undertake I never saw cause to accuse my Medicines, nor in this neither; For though his Looseness was stayed in due time, yet once in eight or ten hours he had constantly a well consisting stool; That now if I should withdraw these, and fall to cooling Drinks, Ptisans or Juleps, I might please the palate, but weaken nature, that only by the utmost strength and virtue of my best Cordials could be enabled to go through with this Conflict: Hereupon immediately I put into his hands near upon three quarters of a pint of Salus, to take of it continually as much as he pleased, which liking him very well, he followed it to purpose, sleeping very sound for two hours together, and waking cheerful and full of hope: Upon this also, upon little Coughing he brought up large quantities of a thick ropy phlegm, like whites of Eggs, which hardly parted from his mouth by plucking, and this frequently both night and Day; During all which time, he took very large quantities of Radix, Salus, Vindex, Arcanum, and the rest forementioned, sleeping conveniently, and waking without sadness or sickishness: And upon a sudden seemed to himself so well and courageous, that I wishing him to forbear speech, and Dispose himself to rest, he laughed at me, and told me if I would not otherwise be convinced, he would rise and come home to me, I wished him rather to believe me than himself, and towards night he should try his strength in sitting up for his refreshment, so I quieted him, but so that he would have a Chicken prepared for his Supper; So when time came, his fancy helped him to rise pretty hearty, and with a little help to move near the fire, where he would fain have been well, and called for his Diet, but alas could not endure the smell, nor swallow one bit, but changed in a moment, and so hasts to bed, where finding himself somewhat refreshed, was not discouraged, but said he perceived he must have patience awhile; so within a Day and a Night after, his Phlegm began to cease, his head quieted, his thirst slaked, his mouth, and tongue, and throat cleared, and his appetite c●ept gently upon him, and able to rise and sit up two and three hours together, and to bed without faintness, and so in less than fourteen days from the beginning, he perfectly recovered: For no sooner was the venom of the Distemper subdued, but his strength came on amain, immediately, having not had any thing done to weaken him by either Bleeding, Purging, Vomiting, Blistering or the like, as in such Dangerous Cases is usual, and to be often repeated: So this was the strange end of his small Pox, being by the mighty Efficacy of those Medicines forced upward and cast out, and though he purged no● at all, but as Cordials which he took every night after, for a week at least, purged him, yet no ill effect followed, unless the peeling of his hands and feet should be taken for one, which indeed witnesseth rather the poisonous quality of the distemper, and powerful benignity of the Medicine, than any remnants or relics of malignity: And as this, through God's mercy, thus happily ended, so should all the advantages received by this Family from these Medicines: Were there no other, they might very well pass for a currant testimony, that they very well deserve, in a most signal sense, to be styled, True and Real Physic for Families; as I am sure they are always ready to testify.  
50. A young Gentlewoman very big with-child, upon taking Cold, was so extremely afflicted with continual violent Coughing, that her friends thought it impossible but she must miscarry; but being well acquainted with these Medicines, every time she caught, she took a good sup of Radix vitae, which amounted to above a pint in one night, and so quitted herself both of her fear, trouble, and danger, and this without any the least shadow of inconvenience ensuing, either by burning, drying, or binding. And if this be not an undoubted witness both of their safety and efficacy, the most diffident being Judges, let no evidence henceforth be of any repute amongst Practitioners.  
51. One about 50, of a full body, upon a fall bruising the knee, breaking the skin, and swelling with much painfulness, plying her twice a day with Vis vitae, and every night last with two ounces of Vindex, Salus, and Fermentum naturae, in a week's time was perfectly recovered.  
52. A Maid, through Cold taken, and Stoppages, her face became so swelled and pained, as was intolerable; but with Vis vitae for days, and Salus, and Fermentum, and Radix for nights, in a week's time she became very well in all respects.  
53. A Gentleman being very crazy after a tedious sickness, and yet by reason of urgent business forced upon a long journey in dead of Winter, taking with him half a pint of Salus vitae, reckoned it preserved him from many inconveniences, that in probability might have caused some dangerous relapses.  
54. A Gentlewoman between 30 and 40, apt through helping others, to run many hazards in her own health, upon a great Cold was taken with violent Gripe and Looseness, which hung upon her very tediously; at length she sent to me, and I sent her half a pint of Refugium, to take half presently, and the rest three hours after, both well warmed, which perfectly cured her.  
55. A Gentlewoman between 20 and 30, taken with flying pains all about her, and with extreme torture in her stomach, by the use of two half pints of Salus vitae, so speedily recovered her, that what therewith, and former services they have done her, she has freely voiced them out, for the cheapest and most powerful Physic in the world.  
56. A Gentleman near 40, long afflicted with an Ague, being at length cured by no ordinary Physic, but such as by forcible Vomits and Loosners, extremely weakened him, so far as none had any hopes of his life: Having some knowledge of my Medicines, from large experience of his friends, sent to me, desiring I would well consider what might revive his drooping and sinking spirits; I sent him a pint of Vis vitae, which perfectly raised and restored him.  
57 A young Gentlewoman, after a miscarriage, being continually pained, restless, and every way indisposed, using much of the most Artificial help, but all in vain, desiring my assistance, by four ounces of Radix, and three ounces of Vindex, became perfectly well.  
58. A young Girl, so ill, that the Parents knew not what to think of her, and using all usual means, but prevailing nothing, desired my advice; I gave two ounces of Clavis, which given to the Child by a spoonful every hour, soon gave an appearance to the Small Pox, which both came out, ripened, and shelled off without any further help, only all being over, something was expected to carry off the relics; so I gave two ounces of Vindex for two nights, which perfected the work to their satisfaction: For some there are who begin to distinguish rightly between refining the Body and Spirits, by these sublime Medicines; and defiling both by venomous Loosners, unjustly styled Purgers.  
59 The like service these Medicines performed for a younger Child of the same Parents; but this proving somewhat more threatening, Salus and Vindex were employed to its complete recovery.  
60. A Gentlewoman far gone with-child, surseiting upon what did not agree with her, became extremely pained all over her body with Gripe, insomuch that she was forced to use large quantities of Salus, Stella, Vindex, Radix, and Vita; but being her former acquaintance, she took them always with good hope and confidence; nor did they fail her, for through God's blessing she in short time recovered.  
61. The young Children of this Gentlewoman also, upon many sore sicknesses, being given frequently, not only Salus, Vindex, Radix, and the like, of their mildness, but even Stella also, ever had good from them, without any the least inconvenience, unto which appertains such a Mystery, as it is no wonder if our capricious Arts-men censoriously say, they do not understand.  
61. A young Lad, about 14, having a tedious Ague, his Master plying him with Sanguis, heated for his Fits, and with Vis vitae for other times; in about a week's time discharged it.  
62. A Gentleman about 30, by occasion of business, adding illness to illness, thickened it into a most violent Fever, with violent pains in his head, vehement thirst and soreness all over his body, with restlessness: I began with him with three ounces of Vindex, for the first night, and the use of White-wine Posset, and in the morning he found himself so well, that he risen out of bed; but unhappily, for by occasion he ventured to the renewing of his Cold, and that day was very much out of order; then for next night I gave him the same quantity of Vindex, and next morning found himself so well, that friends coming about business, he would needs rise, and did, to speak with them; and so again lost all the advantage he had gained, and so rooted his Distemper, that for two days and nights after the event was sadly feared: But every night I plied him with Salus, or Vindex, and all day long with Radix, to take continnally; but all prevailing very little, he grew much discouraged; yet following him so close with the most powerful Medicines, the most threatening Signs were withheld, and the worst that appeared somewhat abated, for he had rest and evacuation, and his tongue, and throat, and thirst moderated; but as he seemed to amend, it settled into a second day Ague, with a very bad Cold, and very long and tedious hot Fits: But as this somewhat quitted the mortal fears of his friends, so was I well satisfied I had it at that pass; for I account not any Ague difficult, where (as here) the Patient is easily ordered, and willing to give time, without limitation of cost: So every night I gave him three ounces of Salus, and half a pint of Vis vitae, every day, to take by little and little all day long; and for his Fits half a pint of Refugium to take well heated, one half of it just before, or in the beginning of his Fit, and the rest at times before it ended, and so by degrees his Fits were lessened, and his well days and nights without headache, or sickness, and in short time at a final end, without any thing, but some three nights two ounces of Vindex, to throw out the dead or killed dog; and he immediately followed his occasions, free from all faintness or infirmity, which would hardly have been so, had he bled, or vomited, or purged, and been blistered; as in other hands he would have been, though it might have cost him his life: But this good speed, as I take it, the whole time being not above ten days, next to God's blessing, is very much to be imputed to the quiet resignment of this Patient (above most) to all directions and cautions advised, especially after once he saw the least hazard or adventure run him into inconvenience; and may stand, as an example of great advantage and worthy to be followed by all sick persons, with all patience, and prudent resolution.  
63. This Gentleman's Wife, towards the end of her Childbirth month, taking a great Cold, became very Feverish, and in short time extremely weakened; but being followed awhile only with Radix vitae, she recovered perfectly, and far beyond her own and her friend's expectation. This was some months before her Husband's sickness, and was very much the cause of his  steadfastness in his reliance upon my advice, and Medicines.  
64. A Gentleman about 24, forced much abroad in wet and slabby weather, taking an extreme Cold, became fore all over his body, with Vomiting, Gripes, Headache, and Aguish gripe in his bones; I was hastily sent to, and sent him four ounces of Vindex, to take all (at twice) in half an hours time well warmed, last at night; and next morning, to his wonder, he was as well as ever he was in his life.  
Also some months after, upon like occasion, falling just into the same Distemper, the same quantity of the same Medicine as speedily and thoroughly recovered him.  
65. An Elderly Gentleman, far in the Country, subject to infirmities, with Gravel, and pains about the Kidneys, by the continual use of Vis vitae, finds constant relief, with reviving, and much cheerfulness.  
66. A very young Child, extremely Feverish with a Cough, and brought so low, that it was thought to be an Hectic, and that there was small hopes of its life, by the use of Salus vitae, as half a spoonful every hour, the Child at last had a large very black stool, and thereupon perfectly recovered: The Parents had in the whole a Pint, but whether the Child took it all or no, I am not certain; but if it did, it was very safe, and the cost not exceeding 8 s. was but small to people of Quality.  
67. A Gentlewoman about 40, being extremely out of order with pains in her head, and vapours, as quite destroyed her stomach, and made her almost blind, and stupidly senseless, and abundantly the worse for tampering with Physic; but by the sole help of small quantities of Refugium vitae, frequently taken day and night, she speedily and perfectly recovered; and so much to her wonder, that now she will hear of no other Physic for her friends and Family, but these Medicines.  
68 A Gentleman so sore with Piles, that he could hardly go, or stand, or sit, by taking every night, for a short time, two ounces of Vindex naturae, perfectly recovered.  
69. A Gentlewoman, far from London, troubled continually with sickishness of stomach, and flying sharp pains all over her body, by three pints of Vis vitae, taken by a quarter of a pint every day, between breakfast and dinner, and as much between dinner and supper, perfectly recovered.  
70. A Gentleman near 40, troubled with perpetual headache, and weakness of the stomach, that he could hardly pass about his occasions, by the use of one quart of Sanguis, was soon brought into a healthful condition.  
71. A Gentleman between 30 and 40, being under a Surgeon's hands for an extreme Inflammation in his arm, a Brother of his observing how much he drooped in his spirits, well knowing the safety and virtue of Salus, gave him half a pint, which in short time he took, and found so much relief, both as to his Spirits and Inflammation, that he thought it much expedited his cure, if not saved his life: But this unknown to his Surgeon, who generally are so set in their way, that they will not admit themselves the liberty of so much as supposing any thing can be helpful in their undertake, but what they are brought up in, and accustomed unto, though its thought they have as much need as the Physicians (who God knows have need too much) to enlarge their quarters, and increase their contributions, of at least such safe Assistants as these have every way approved themselves.  
72. This Gentleman having a Daughter about 12, sorely afflicted with Feverish Distempers and weakness, by the use of half a pint of Salus perfectly recovered.  
73. An Elderly Gentlewoman about 60, overburdened with business, and so subject to Heats and Colds, Watch and Weariness, being taken at length with extreme Vomitings, Gripe, and Looseness, and Lightness of Head; after having used abundance of the best advice and Physic money could get, at least as she thought, and being nevertheless worse and worse, and at last so ill, that she had no hope of her life, being visited by a well known Friend, could hardly be made to know her, so strangely confused were both her sight and understanding. This Friend seeing her in this sad condition, put her in mind of my Medicines, telling her, if she were free from other Physic, 'twas very likely, as bad as she was, she might receive good by them: So she took her counsel, and had in some three days three half pints of Refugium, which perfectly recovered her, and immediately gave her liberty to follow her occasions.  
74. Also a Gentlewoman after her Lying-in, being taken in so confused a manner, that the most Skilful knew not what to make of it, nothing thriving they gave, or could imagine, a Dear Friend of hers bewailing her condition, where my Medicines were well known, was soon persuaded to take my advice: So I gave her a pint of Refugium, to be taken, as I remember, by nine spoonful every three hours, which perfectly recovered her, at the cost only of eight shillings: So that henceforth it's to be feared, Market Cry will alter, and those who on all occasions have cried them as good, but dear, being put to their shifts, must change their notes, and cry (what's more due to common Medicines) They are too cheap to be good; or alas, what will they do to slur them.  
75. An Elderly Gentlewoman, troubled extremely with Gripe in her Bowels, sending for my assistance, I sent her half a pint of Refugium, to take the one third part well warmed as soon as it was with her, which would be about ten in the forenoon, and another like part at four afternoon, and the remaining part last at night, and this through God's mercy perfectly cured her.  
76. A young Girl about 4, so extremely troubled with a hooping Cough, as made the blood fly out at her Nostrils, through the continual violence thereof; and had also some Convulsion Fits: The Mother full of sadness telling me with weeping, that just that day month she had buried a younger of the like Distemper, and that she was even out of hope of this, having used all means she could get, but all in vain; blaming herself, that she had not come sooner to me, as having received much good from my Medicines, both before, and in the sickness. I comforted her all I could, and gave her near four ounces of Succus and Refugium, mixed 2 parts Succus and one Refugium, to give the Child two spoonful every hour: Next day she came to me rejoicing, and took as much more, nothing at all doubting her recovery, and through God's goodness sped accordingly.  
77. A Sea Captain, being much encouraged by one who had great experience of my Medicines, took a large quantity for his Voyage, of several sorts, and divers of them of the higher prizes, as 8 s. and 12 s. the pint, which fell out very happily for him, the place where he arrived being a very hot Climate, and at that time extremely afflicted with the Calenture, insomuch that whatsoever good he might do for others, with great joy he ascribeth his own preservation from that threatening and mortal Distemper, under God, to their assistance. And being asked how they kept in so hot a Country, he said, every whit as good as at first; which being a further confirmation of their durable qualities, still proves them as fit for Sea, as for Land; as useful in Foreign Countries as our own; and for persons travelling every way, as for fixed and settled Families.  
78. One about 30, who was extremely surfeited by eating, long and exceedingly disturbed thereby, was perfectly recovered by half a pint of Sanguis, half taken about 4 afternoon, and the other half last at night, well warmed.  
79. A Gentlewoman about 22, very long afflicted with pains in her stomach, head, and loss of appetite, by the use of three quarts of Sanguis vitae, taken by nine spoonfuls every forenoon, between breakfast and dinner; and as much every afternoon, between dinner and supper, perfectly recovered.  
80. A Merchant's Child, under long Feverish Distempers, after very much means of Physic fruitlessly used, perfectly recovered by twice four ounces of Salus vitae, taken by three spoonfuls every three hours.  
81. A Child about 3 years old, almost past hope, through a Fever and Surfeit, and bad Physic, past all hope of the Parents ' recovered, by twice three ounces of Salus vitae, taking two spoonful every hour till it was spent, White-wine Posset being its constant Drink.  
82. A strong bustling working man, taking an extreme Cold, and surfeited by drinking Small Beer; his Workmaster that employed him finding him apt to give ear to slight Medicines, so as it was like to run out into a desperate and long sickness, and having always by him in readiness, for the use of his Family, large quantities of the best of my Medicines, told him plainly, if he would take of them, and no other, he would spare for no cost in his behalf; but if not, he would immediately send him home to his friends. So the man taking plenty of Stella, Vindex, and Salus, in one day and night's time became perfectly well.  
83. A young Gentlewoman, being far gone of her first Child, illish and sickish often, upon apprehension of very near danger, taking a fright, grew so i'll, as all her friends doubted an immediate miscarriage; but her Husband always furnished with Stella, etc. prevailing with her to take two ounces, completely settled her.  
I hope the Reader will not think much of his pains in casting up the charge of these Cures, for satisfying the charitable repine of such Artists, as still sighingly bewail the dearness of my Medicines: For indeed this last, out of which how much money they would fetch, let those judge who are used to the costliness of their Visits, the length of their time, and largeness of their Bills, this no inconsiderable Cure cost 18 pence, that afore it about 5 s. N. 81. 3 s. N. 80. 4 s. N. 79. 12 s. N. 78. 1 s. proportionable whereunto distempers rightly stated: The rest also will rato pro rato appear, and well applied, might prove a fit remedy for such, as in their hearts wish they were dearer, though with their tongues they thus play the Bopeep Lapwings: for every one knows what will not lie.  
84. A young Merchant, extremely weakened and dejected by the violent griping, tearing pains of Vomiting and Looseness, insomuch that he exceedingly doubted how it would go with him, desiring my advice. A friend of his also being very ill likewise, I gave him a full half pint of Stella; he drank the far greater part himself, and his friend the rest; but such an alteration did it immediately make in him, that in an instant he fell into discourse, with that freedom and cheerfulness, as if he had quite forgot his sickness, or had not been sick at all. And so also was it with his friend; and both perfectly recovered, without any after complaint or inconvenience; and this at 6 s. was thought no hard bargain.  
85. A Gentlewoman about 30, grievously tormented with Gripes, and Looseness, by half a pint of Salus, taking half at ten in the forenoon, and the rest last at night, perfectly recovered: and about a week after, taking Cold again, and falling into the same distemper, by the like quantity again recovered, and continued in health; nor was this thought dear, though both Cures cost 8 s.  
86. A Gentlewoman newly brought to bed, troubled overmuch with after-pains and vapours, I sent her hal●● pint of Radix, and four ounces of Refugium, the Radix she was to sip of continually, and three spoonfuls of Refugium, in case of any violent fit, in the use whereof she found immediate help, passing through her time very healthfully and comfortably; which bears a material testimony, both for their Innocency and Efficacy, when in so tender a case they proved so effectual; the charge of both also not exceeding the sum of 5 s. which was not thought unreasonable.  
87. A Child new born oppressed with Phlegm, by the use of two ounces of Arcanum, mixed with one ounce of Radix, half a spoonful every hour given, ceased to be farther troubled.  
88 An ingenious Gentleman, long time troubled with melancholy, and in hope of recovery, tired out with Physic, being by his Friend possessed of my own, and my Medicines lity, put both himself and his Purse freely into my Cere: I was the best Husband I could for him, and yet was forced, except I would trifle out my Trust, between the 10th and 25th of March, to put him to full three pound cost, but so much to his contentment and recovery, that I never took more joy, then to note his Noble and generous rejoicing in the pleasantness of his Medicines, wondering that things so pleasant could be so efficacious as he found them. This Cure was performed by a quart of Radix, and a pint of Salus, delivered the 10th day of March, the Radix for the day, and the Salus for the night. The 15th day I sent him a mixture of Stella vitae, and Succus vitae, the quantity of a quart; the 17th a pint of Salus; the 25th a mixture of Spirit of Saffron, with four ounces of Arcanum naturae, to the quantity of a quart, and eight ounces of Salus vitae for nights; and this last proportion lasted him four days: So I reckon twenty days completed the work, which was thought could not have been less than so many weeks; nor did he limit me to any time, nor did I promise him within any compass, so far have I ever been, and I doubt not ever shall be, from abusing the confidence or trust of any; and am confident this Cure would not have been thought dear, had it cost ten times the value it did.  
89. A Gentleman in a very violent Fever, sending to me about one in the afternoon, I sent him a pint of Radix vitae, to take a quarter of it presently, and three hours after as much more, and at Bedtime the like, and to keep the rest as he saw occasion: But he being well acquainted with my Medicines, and knowing my advices ever rather short than over, made more haste, and took it all by seven that evening: He had upon it five or six stools, the Original cause being a Surfeit; but by this he was instantly and fully cured, and on the sudden made hungry, that before could not have eaten any thing: And so was it with him in N. 84.  
90. One who by overmuch hast bruised her Breast, and long ill thereof, received very much comfort by the use of one pint of Vindex naturae.  
91. One in her Lying-in, though well Laid, yet falling into dreadful pains, and thence into a violent Fever, and Lightness of Head, with thirst; and after some remission, by the use of my medicines, a desperate melancholy seizing upon her; yet being continually plied with Refugium, Vis, Salus, and Radix, a little after her month perfectly recovered: Cost 30 s.  
92. Her Nurse, about the time of her recovery, having tired herself with care and watching, and falling into extreme griping of the Bowels, by one half pint of Sanguis taken at twice, perfectly recovered.  
93. The Child also during the Mother's illness, being often dangerously distempered, was still reduced to a hopeful state by Radix, Salus, etc. and is in a very good condition.  
94. A Gentlewoman near 30, extremely afflicted with a second day Ague, and wearied with Physic, was by a Friend who had esteem of my Medicines, recommended to my care; her Husband telling me, if I could cure her in short time, 'twas like she would take what I sent her, else not: I told him, I never set, nor was not used to be set any time; so if he thought good to refer her to me, and follow my advice, I made no difficulty, with God's help, to cure an Ague: He said he had cause to bethink himself aforehand, having very lately paid off a Bill of above twenty pound for Physic for himself, and he would be loath his Wife should fall into such handling, she having had too much of it herself already: I told him, 'twas more his business than mine, and he might do as he pleased: But the Gentleman that brought him said, he knew me better, than so, as to my clearness in the undertaking, and that she should be ruled by me; so I fell to work, with Salus for every night, and Vis for every day; and sometimes Salus for the Fit, and other times Refugium, and in about eight days cured her, with the cost of 22 s. to their wonder and great contentment; and this without Visit, sight of her, or her water, or any troublesome operation.  
95. One between 50 and 60. observing a numbness beginning in his fingers, and unaptness about his wrists, upon taking a pint of Salus, by two ounces every night, became well settled, and free from that threatening Infirmity.  
96. A Child about 4 year old, worn and wasted extremely with a violent Ague, recommended to me by the Gentlewoman last , cured perfectly, by much the same means and time, to very great satisfaction.  
97. A Gentlewoman big with-child, taken with most violent Gripe, with Vomiting and Looseness, depending day and night solely upon these Medicines, as Stella, Vindex, Salus, Radix, and taking plenty of them, in very few days perfectly recovered, without any detriment in her doubtful condition.  
98. A Gentlewoman about 40, troubled with tedious pains in her Head, Stomach, Back, and sore all over her body, and wearied out; and as by her discourse, I judged, much injured by unwholesome Physic, with a pint of Refugium, taken by two ounces every night, perfectly recovered, to her joy and admiration.  
99 One near thirty, stopped in his Nostrils, with loss of smelling, a fleshy fl●p, as he discovered it, troubling the part; I gave him two ounces of Ignis vitae, and ordered him frequently to hold about 3 drops in his mouth a good while before he swallowed it; and to wet a little Wool with Ignis, and put it up to the place affected, and keep it till the heat was much spent, and then to renew it. He did thus from the 11th of May, till the 7th of June 1669. when his stoppage was cleared▪ his sm●lling restored, and the loosend Film fixed in due order; he took as much more, in hope by the use of it to strengthen his sight, which began to be very weak, the cost was 4. s.  
We had much discourse how I should be successful in a Distemper so unusual; And I told him I was often troubled with Questions, whether I had ever seen or cured this or that Distemper, to very little purpose, though those that put it, think themselves very wise and wary in it, and build much upon it: There being a time when the greatest Practiser had not cured any one Distemper, so that it was not so much what he had seen or cured, but how well he was furnished with knowledge, and Medicines for all occasions, which thosewho were troubled with distempers, were principal to consider, because those of upright consciences will never undertake any thing but what they judge they are wholly provided for.  
100 A Gentleman about 40, long time troubled with a second day Ague, and Extremely weakened thereby, with loss of Appetite, and restlessness upon his well days; Desiring my help, with the cost of 30. s. in the Medicines forementioned, in about 10 days time perfectly recovered, to his great contentment, having much business depending on him.  
101. A Child, his friends hopeless of life, so violently was it troubled with Vomiting, Looseness, and Gripe; by the use of small quantities of Vindex, as a spoonful once in two hours, and of Radix other while a spoonful in few days was throughly recovered.  
102. A Child Extremely molested with Gripes, Looseness, Cough, and spice of Convulsion fits; with two Ounces of Salus, and 2 ounces of Refugium mixed with Succus vitae, was presently recovered.  
103. A Mother and her Daughter by stoppages, and Vapours, exccedingly pained in their Head, Back, and Stomach, with violent Gripe in their Bowels, recovered by half a pint of Vis vitae.  
104. A Child of six years old, taken with pains all over the body, with tremble in her hands, loss of Appetite, and violently burning, which proved very Difficult, yet in four day's time with the cost of 10 s. perfectly recovered.  
105. One near 50, taken with a twisting pain upon his Loins that he could hardly go, and not without great painfulness; taking at one draught a quarter of a pint of Stella vitae well heated, immediately was restored to his strength and walking, he took as much more home with him for night, which confirmed the work.  
106. A Gentlewoman near 40, taken with a violent pain in her shoulder, all along her Arm, and most part of both made raw by Plasters, her hand very much swollen, stiff, and pained: I I gave her whilst she was with me 6 ounces of Vis vitae, she took it slowly and by degrees; And for that night 3 ounces of Vindex naturae, which remitted much of the pain and smelling; Next night 3 ounces more of the same Discharged the whole Distemper, and perfected the Cure.  
107. One upon a● most Dreadful Surfeit under pains, Fever, and restlessness, by twice 4 ounces of Refugium perfectly recovered.  
108. A young man earnestly desired me to give his friend something to comfort him in an Extreme Illness, reckoning up so many sad Effects he lay under, as more could hardly have been, had he been taken with the Pestilence, withal telling me they had sent for a Doctor; I told him I must then be excused for sending any thing thither, and so I Dismissed him: Some days after he comes to me again, telling me he had been bled, and Purges given him, but without stools, or any amendment, Vomited all he took, was extreme thirsty and restless. And that he earnestly desired to have of my Medicines, being resolved to take nothing else, 'twas a Family understood them very well, so I sent four ounces of Vindex half for bedtime, and the rest with in the night; next Day he had stools, and in all respects much amended; next night he took as much more, which quit him of all his Distempers, and next night 4 ounces of Radix vitae, perfected his Cure.  
109. A young Gentlewoman very little recovered out of a violent looseness, occasioned by a Surfeit, somewhat unexpectedly was very well brought to bed of a very hopeful Child, but within 3 days time became so Disturbed in her head, and all over her body, that Pestilential madness could hardly Exceed it, yet at worst had so much remembrance of the good she had often received by these Medicines, that as she took freely of them, so would she hear of nothing else, and though some about her, and some visitants shook their heads, when they saw her continue long under her Extremities, giving out Cautions and words of Discouragements, at the use of so great a quantity of hot things as they would call them, fearing she would fall under them: Yet through God's goodness they proved her preservation, when in all probability any other way had been her ruin.  
110. And her Child soon changing, and into a green and ill coloured Looseness, and through neglect of giving Salus and Radix, according to the Father's order, as deeming it over hot, and altogether improper for the Child, and so gave according to other Directions, such insignificant things as Children frequently suffer by, and so long, till this Child became so weak as not to stir a foot or finger, or open its Eyes for a Day together, to the Parents and my Extreme torment, to see such pernicious wilfulness in ignorance, nor had the Child possibly escpaed, but that it pleased God, when all hope was almost past, a Gentleman and his wise coming in kindness to visit the Gentlewoman; both of them having had Extraordinary Experience of the safety and Effectualness of the Medicines in manifold dangerous cases: I took the opportunity to desire them to acquaint her (who had sole charge of the Child) with what they knew, touching the fitness and innocency of Salus and Radix in this case, which they did so throughly, that my persuasions, which till then were fruitless, prevailed so far, That throughout that night there was given to the Child every two hours a spoonful of Salus, which by the morning had brought the Child into so hopeful a condition, that afterwards my Directions were exactly and without scruple followed, under which it so thrived, that in short time proved a perfect and joyful recovery both of the mother and her little daughter.  
Many more instances of their performances I might here recite, were not these more than sufficient to satisfy the ingenious, that their virtues are still fresh, permanent, and prevalent; not of a dying or a declining nature, (as divers boasted Medicines have proved) but of so constant, lively, and efficacious performance, as gives just encouragement to believe they can never fail any rational expectation in any disease whatsoever.  
And as it is from this undoubted assurance of their innocency and efficacy that I have thus frequently pressed their use, the very same reason still urgeth me thus far further to affirm, that in this important cause of health, or for the disconsolate times of sickness: It is not possible (in my apprehension) for any to do themselves or their Relations a greater good, Than to be constantly furnished with such of them, as in their rational observation of their virtues, They shall judge most requisite for their occasions: Yea even Practisers of Physic, how hardly soever they may br●ng their minds to it, aught in special manner throughly to consider their powerful benignity, and in tender respects to the weighty trust reposed in them, freely and fully to direct their use (thereby avoiding all the troubles and dangers of other Physic) until from their own Studies they are provided of Medicines of like benignity: Which yet they are to know, will never be compassed whilst they give esteem to so many insignificant Notions, and conceptions, referring to Principles, Methods and Medicines, set so high a value upon Antimony, Quicksilver, and Opium, are so little acquainted with the true humane temperature, and so regardless of the improvement of their palates to the discerning the proprieties & Spirits of Materials, without serious regard, and conformation whereunto the Artist sails but by a bought or borrowed and imaginary wind without Needle or Compass, and never arrive at any worthy production.  
Besides, where Nature gives not promptitude, and as (one instances well) a Teeming Constitution though Art and Learning may abound, pertinent invention will be to seek, and new Discoveries fail, as the compleatest Laboratories do frequently manifest: The native genius, being the Artsmans' Alkahest and of more worth than that so much talked of rarity was ever yet to any, for any commanding medicine as yet appeareth (except in boast) from its assistance. Or rather like unto the Archaeus to one that had the alkahest, in forming his pa●lat how to distinguish of every part laid open to view, and whereof rightly to choose, and regularly to dispose, for the advance of cure.  
The want of which native Energy, hath in students been the occasion that Chemistry hath lately abounded to its own disparagement, yielding nothing comparable to the noble countenance given unto it: For who now will not be a Chemist, whether Nature hath fitted him thereunto or not: So the famous Orator would needs make his son an Orator, but long labour in vain, Taught him his native temperature was not for it: And, if after his Father was gone, he should at any time need an Orator: He was to make use of another's Fancy brain and Eloquence, and which he might do without disparagement, for no man makes himself. He that wants an Excellent Musician seeks for one Naturally so addicted: And if the most Exquisite Mathematitian thinks no disparagement to make use of Instruments made by another hand, and invented by another head, why should a Physician deem himself dishonoured to make use of the long approved, safe Productions of another man's Invention, especially considering, that no Science (so material unto man) depends so wholly upon native promptitude as this of Medicine: There being no Rule unto Conception, nor Instruction to direct the Palates Election: Upon which the whole of all Improvements necessarily dependeth.  
When all men are alike, every one will produce a like, but till then, one will still need another's aid.  
He that in this Warfare will use no weapons, but such as he knows how to make himself, would hardso venture upon a Combat were his own life concerned: But I shall leave this to the sole persuasion of time, though I daily see manifest inconveniencies, for want of their general reception into practice. And so I return to my advice for Families.  
Whom yet I Iwould willingly, and fully possess of this important Truth, before I put a period to this Discourse: viz. That how ever it be taken (and justly) for a great happiness to be recovered immediately by safe means upon a sudden illness: And reckoned (upon good grounds) like life, from the death, to be raised to health and strength, from a tedious and dangerous fiit of sickness, by safe and kindly Medicines, free from all hazards and disturbance (unto both which most remarkable ends in Physic, the Medicines afore proposed are effectually adapted) yet is there no benefit or advantage so desirable, or in itself so truly valuable, as where by a timely providence and foresight, you make use of them to keep you in constant health and cheerfulness, where-unto I verily believe there is not any thing so proper, or so effectually prevalent, being used according as afore is specified: nor any thing that doth more highly commend their qualifications, it being no common strain of Virtue, for the same particulars to be so powerful as to subdue the most violent Distempers, and yet so familiar as to be a most pleasant strengthner, and fortifier against all the ordinary assaults of time and accidents. And (which completes the wonder of their virtue) as small quantity in sickness doth as effectually, and as speedily relieve one constantly using them in times of health, as it doth those who never before knew or took them: At so true an amity are they with humane nature, and so matertally do they differ from all other Physical Preparations.  
And as I have deemed these very worthy your se rious notice, so also that you heedfully observe the vast difference between those who recover out of any considerable sickness, having run the usual Tract of Physic, and those who are raised from the beds of sickness by these kindly Medicines: How pale, weak, and crazy the one, long languish, liable to relapses upon every small occasion, if not to worse Distempers arising from the unhappy remains of unwholesome Physic: Whilst the other are no sooner discharged from their main Distemper, but in a manner, immediately their Strength, Stomach, Courage, and countenance, return at once without fear of any after inconveniencies; And may well appear a circomstance of no mean consideration to manifest the difference of the means and Medicines.  
And having thus far disburdened my reason of so many important thoughts which I judged worthy the knowledge in this weighty cause of Physic, upon which man's happiness so much dependeth, wherein my principal aims have been, to make the differences of the usual Physic: And that which I here propose so apparent, that every capacity may be enabled to make their choice accordingly.  
For perfecting this work, having been somewhat large in showing the stillness, quietness, safeness and untroublesome way of cure by my really benign Medicines, very much resembling the operations and effects, not of Terrestrial, but of Celestial Influences, for a more evident witness of their difference, and to put this main point past all dispute.  
I shall here present the whole Entire Process (of no mean Physician, but) of a most learnred Doctor Engaged in the undertaking of a Cure, and by himself published in Print, as what he deemed most laudable, though the success was doubtful.  
And wherein is chief to be minded, what afore I have expressed. Touching the trouble, hazard, danger, and ill Events of Purging, Vomiting, Bleeding, Glisters, Blisters, etc. And the happiness of that way by which all those are safely and securely avoided. His own Relation verbatim, being as followeth.   

RIVERIV'S Observations, page 36, 37, etc.  
The Distempers Denominated; Tisick, Inflammation of the Lungs, and Palpitation of the Heart.  
ON the 8th of April 1632. The Widow of Monsi. Sejelory of Mon ' Pelier, Starting out of her bed at midnight thinly clad to the window, was presently taken with great shortness of breath, like a Fit of the Tisick, with a Cough, spitting of blood, a Fever, and readness of Face; I being sent for, caused a vein to be opened in her right arm, and 8 ounces of blood being taken away, her shortness of breath presently ceased. Afterwards a Laxative Glister was injected, and a Julep given her of Red Poppy water, Syrup of Violets, Sal prunellae, and Confectio de Hyacintho.  
On the ninth day at ten in the forenoon. I visit her again, and find her in a Fever, troubled with a Cough, and spitting of bloody matter; also she felt a heavy weight in the middle of her breast with an inward burning, and pricking in many parts of her Chest. I cause her to be let blood in her left arm, and that the Glister, and Julep should be repeated, to anoint her breast with Oil of Violets, and that she lick frequently some Syrups of Violets; after the blood-letting she was presently eased & that sense of weight and burning in her Chest were abated. At five in the Evening the same day, conceiving that vapours arose from beneath, and humours into her Chest, which that shortness of breath did sufficiently declare; I cause her to be let blood in the Saphena Vein, after which she was also better; The night following she took the foresaid Julep again, she slept but little.  
On the tenth day in the morning she was better, her Fever and other Symptoms were very remiss. About the third hour of the Evening she had a coldness in her extreme parts, with a light sweat in her Feet, and palms of her hands, after that an a●●te Fever, her pulse very much expressed, and the sense of heaviness in her chest very much augmented. Dr. Ranchinus the Chancellor was called to Consultation, who conceived, that it was a Pluerisie, arising from inflammation of the Mediasticum, and by common consent she was Let blood in her right Arm to seven ounces, after which also she was better. The other Medicines were continued, also Frictions, Ligatures, and Cupping-glasses were applied to her lower parts.  
On the eleventh day, which was the third of her sickness, moved with what I had observed in another Disease of the same patiented, in which she was afflicted by turns, with a Flux of her Belly joined with a Tenesmus, and a Catarrh falling upon her breast, So that as often as her looseness stopped, she was grievously afflicted with her Catarrh, and when her Flux recovered, her Catarrh presently ceased; The humour falling into her breast, being drawn downwards, I conceived that a Purge would do her most good, which I made after this manner.  
Take leaves of Bugloss and Lettuce of each one handful, Tamarind, ha●●●● ounce, Liquorice ●h●ee dr●●s, Violet flowers, 〈◊〉 Pugil, boy all to ●our ounces, in the strained Liquour dissolve one dram of Rhubarb, infused in Beglo●● water with yellow Sanders Manna, and firrup of Roses of each one ounce, make all into a potion, which she took in the morning, and voided much Phlegmatic, Wheyish, sharp, and stinking matter, nevertheless the Disease was more violent towards the Evening than formerly, yet her Pulse was not oppressed as before, and the weight in her breast was less; But she felt a pain about her right Channel bone, which increased by handling the same, she slept little that night, she took Emulsions frequently.  
The fourth day of her Disease, and the twelfth of the month, when as in the morning her Fever and the pain in her Channel bone continued. Dr. Ranchinus was again called to Consult, and besides the foresaid Symptoms, a great palpitation of the heart, which appeared also in her right Hypocondrium, also in her right side; but it lasted not long there. But about her heart it continued, and did beat like a Hammer violently, she was again Let blood in her right Arm. And an Ountment was appointed for the part pained, and Remedies to revel the humours to the lower parts: About Evening the Disease was again exasperated, and the Palpitation continued, some hours after she did sweat a little all her body over, by which she was a little eased; But her Palpitation and Fever continued as before, when we began to suspect that Vapours did arise from her Womb we prescribed her a Glister for the Mother, Frictions, Ligatures, and Cupping-glasses to be applied to her lower parts, Emplastrum Hystericum was applied to her Navel; and a Julep was given her, to assist her sweeting, of Scabious and Carduus water with Bezoar stone, and half an ounce of Orange flower water in regard of her womb. In the night she had three large stools of stinking corrupt matter: after midnight she slept quietly till morning.  
On the fifth day of the Disease, I found her in the morning with a small Fever, without any oppression in her breast, or any pain, and with very little Palpitation of heart, about Evening she did sweat a little, and was better afterwards. After she had voided her Glister, her palpition was augmented, her Fever became more intense, and she was pretty well in the Night.  
On the sixth day, all things were as before, in the Evening Cupping-glasses were applied with scarrificaton which did her good.  
On the seventh day her Courses began to flow plentifully, by which means all Symptoms were verymuch abated.  
On the eighth day she was better.  
On the ninth day she had a light looseness joined with a Tenesmus, by which she voided few Phlegmatic excrements, and before that looseness, she vomited much bitter stuff, the Humours were prepared with temperate aperitives.  
On the tenth day, which was the eighteenth day of the Month her looseness was less, at night it stopped quite, ●he had no Fever, and after that she plainly amended.  
On the 29. of the said Month of April, when she felt her helf exceeding well, and was busy about her household occasions, as she was sitting in a Chair, she fell suddenly to the ground and died.  
Her body being opened, her Mediastinum was found full of wheyish blood, which peradventure, the Membrane being broken towards the upper part of the Lungs, and pressing the same, and the Aspera Arteria, might suddenly choke her, moreover the whole substance of the Lungs was found full of purulent matter, exceeding heavy: Also her left Testicle was as big as a small Egg, of a blackish colour, and as it were Gangrenated, yea and as soon as it was opened, there leapt out of the middle of her Testicle, a certain matter like a Nut-kernel, and very like a putrefied clotter of blood; we conjectured that to have been the cause of her Mother-fits, to which she was very much subject, yea peradventure the Palpitation of her heart arose from thence, viz. From the filthy vapours ascending from that part.  
Here you have a very smooth Story, yet of so unquiet, rugged, perplexed, and disconsolate a handling of a sick and Diseased body, that to one accustomed solely to mild and gentle ways in Physic, as nothing seems more cross to reason, so truly hardly any thing more grievous, or more justly to be lamented, for although the Relation of five times bleeding of one in her sad Condition, and divers times Glisters, Ligatures, Cuppings, and Scarrifications, and purge be here very plausibly delivered, as if the Fears, Troubles and Disturbances, these Attending were not at all felt, or thought on by the Patient, yet whoever sensibly considers the many toss, and turmoilings this sick and tender person was exercised withal, during her ten Days sickness, can hardly avoid believing, but that it was even without any other Distemper, sufficient to have brought any weak person to their end, or far towards it, nor can I but firmly apprehend, That if any Patient taken as is here expressed, should for such a time be Discreetly plied with Refugium, Vindex, Salus, Vita naturae, Clavis or Radix, being all strengtheners of Nature, and of Power to subdue the venomous causes of Distempers, I say so plied, I can hardly see it possible, but that recovery must necessarily follow.  
And therefore, truly the course taken, was, and is still to be bewailed, and much the Rather because in this ye are to reckon, that (ex ungue Leonem) you have a full prospect of the generally approved Practice of Physic, The Essence, Quintessence, & masterpiece, not of a learner, but of a Teacher, and most Reverend Author and Doctor in the Science, such as who ever follows, may Authentically subscribe Secundum Artem to all their Prescriptions and Proceed, for which they are both praised, and liberally paid too; And wherewithal their patients (speed how they will) must be contented.  
And yet, who so blind, as with half an eye doth not see what extreme uncertainty this Learned person was at, throughout his whole Engagement in this Distemper; how slenderly discerning of the Cause how weakly judging of the alterations; how insensible of the Patient's mollestations by Glisters, Blisters, etc. how regardless of her loss of blood and Spirit, which though very fruitless, yet often repeated, of how little use his Learning, and former reading seemed herein, how insignificant all his former opening and Anatomising of Bodies appeared here, where he was afresh fain to open his Patient to learn what her Disease was; And being opened, how meanly he Guesses, taking notice merely of apparent, defects of Parts, (which are but Effects) without any consideration of the cause thereof, which indeed is the Disease, and indiscernible, but by the Intellectual eye of the understanding: Also how poorly he was furnished with Medicines, of so mean, casual, and hazardous qualifications, as not in the least strengthened but weakened nature, through which she fell. So that the whole considered, to any rational conscience I think there will appear a cause, for all I have said or done, In this weighty affair of Physic and Medicines; and cannot but judge that the World h●d been infinitely more happy, had it with the resignation of Judaisme and Gentilism for Christianity, at the same time, both questioned, reformed, and exchanged, their groundless, hazardous, and rugged Physic, for what had been more pure, peaceable, and more suitable to that sublime and healing Doctrine.  
But it doth not appear to have then been thought of, nor ever since to any considerable purpose, for though Chemistry hath struck in with large and fu●l pretences, and filled our heads with new Bookish Terms, and Notions, yet have they afforded us scarce any thing but vapouring Fancies, Mysteries, and Riddles, the proper issue of Vainglorious and Superstitious Reformers, who though very bad Leaders, themselves, being led by Quicksilver and Antimony, have had the fortune yet, to be both admired and followed by every Student in this useful Art; But with so little Fruit, not one Master Medicine yet appearing, that it would amaze one's Reason even to astonishment; But that vain windy hopes, and ostentous shows or shadows, have ever been of more esteem than substances, and useful realities, but if hence forward it should be better, I to this piece will deem myself a debtor.  
And so in time I doubt not will others also acknowledge, for however some may still shamefully persist even against the testimony of so many instances, one while to fright people from their use upon pretence of their heat, and otherwhiles to accuse them of impotency by reason of their mildness, yet have I not found all Doctors so partially inclined. I here being one, and he neither young nor mean, who having tasted all with very much attention and satisfaction openly affirmed, that in producing that Catalogue of Medicines, so qualified, as the particulars imported, and the instances manifested, I had done a more real service to Physic, then either Hypocrates Galen, Paracelsus, Vanhelmont, or any other he had ever Read or Herd of. And that could He Produce them in that perfection I did, he would not stay many days in England. I told him his meaning, and the place he aimed at, and he confessed I guessed right, but I thuoght the place that bred them best deserved them, though but for their sakes who esteem them equal to this high Encomium, how Ironically soever given.  
And to double this single Wonder, one also there is who for years hath laid the main weight of his Practice upon their Assistance, to his full satisfaction in all sorts of Distempers, and I believe would hardly be drawn to practise without them, yet never asked what one Particular was in any of them; his taste and assurance of me at first being his warrant, but now useth them with the same confidence and familiarity as I do, or as if they were his own preparations, suspicions, being poor and abject, in casee of so great a trust.  
Another Grave and Learned person of high Degree in Art, tasting and wondering at their so unexpected qualifications, to his extreme contentment, did not, as others, vainly dignify himself by spurting out Latin or Greek Sentences, Inquire whether I had travailed, or at what University I had studied. As if right Reason were not alike in every Language, and in every place on this side, or beyond the Seas, being indeed, more or less, as it is Diligently, Circumspectly, Pertinently, and Honestly exercised. But that grave Gentleman asked such a Question, not of me neither, (so truly civil was he) but of a By-stander, which when I was told, pleased me abundantly, to find one prudent Question amongst so many others, frequently obtruded upon me, very much showing the vast difference of the inward furniture of men, and ministering matter to me of very grateful contemplation.  
Some other such like Congratulatory Testimonies I might further allege, did I lay much weight upon them, but in this Case it being with Medicines as with men, if their performances commend them well and good, and for those the instances are throughly to be considered, if these speak in their commendations, all other praises, though thankworthy, are but supernumerary.  
However upon the whole, here is Ars longa abbreviata, a Physic tendered to general use, and fair Example that needs feel no Pulses, regards not Urines, Critical Days, Climacterical years, state of the Moon, or position of the Stars, sight of the Patient, visits, Diagnosticks, nor Prognostics; That troubles not the head about Circulation, Chilification, or Sanguification, That values not Anatomy, as the to discovery of Diseases, nor the four, nor the three, nor the five Principles, nor the Doctrine of Fermentation, nor the fine spun Thread of Atoms, as any whit advantageous to Cure. That is not beholden to any Book or Books of Philosophy, or Physic for its production, otherwise then to Discern the weaknesses of what had been so highly, but causelessly admired: That stands not obliged to any Chemical or Laboratory Instructers, nor esteems of their numerous terms of Art, but as wit seldom fruitful in Excellencies, without which Chemistry like Honour without Virtue, is but a mere Name to brag withal, as most make on't.  
A Physic yet, which is the first hath dared to be brought within compass, and to be liable to be tried whether true or false, fit, or unfit for the Sublime Nature of man, by certain and undeceivable marks, few & easy to be understood, Whose Principle is from above, in Qualification suited to the true humane Constitution, and powerfully Efficacious for Extirpation, and Extinguishing the venomous Causes of Diseases, that is not at any time either unsafe or unseasonable, and keeps good for years in all Climates.  
And yet a Physic, as the Discourse plentifully showeth, that without any trouble or danger to the sick, may more rationally than any other, be confidently relied on for Cure, in all Cases and Extremities.  
Why then, A Physic bringing so many large Exemptions to the Sick: And that acquits Physicians from so many encumbrances and perplexities, both in their studies and practice, should not with all cheerfulness, and freeness be suitably entertained, Conscience in time will judge: with which being much satisfied, I shall here put a period to all farther Expostulation or Expectation: Referring the issue of all my Endeavours, To that Wisdom which governs the World; and which ought to bear Rule, above all partial interests, in all the Thoughts, Words, Actions, and Consciences of all Mankind, whether Rational, Learne●, or Unlearned, Single, or in Societies: And whereunto most humbly, and most freely, I shall ever wholly submit.  
W. W. At the Star in the Porstern by little morefield's.  
FINIS.   

Licenced June 10th 1669.  
Roger L' Estange.