"Of Transmutations and Bodily Poisons", Part II

"Truly blessed and enlightened is that learned man or wise woman whose gaze has pierced the mysteries of alchemy. This path fortifies the spirit, sharpens the mind and teaches temperance in all things. Even the petty and the shallow have, through ardor in their pursuit of alchemical knowledge, achieved virtue. Yet nevertheless, this art is not without its dangers. An alchemist who turns to imbibing his own concoctions, as is custom among the young and impatient, may wreck havoc upon his very nature. For a potion is not merely a concoction, but a mixture of primes, which the naked eye cannot see. These basic elements of spirit, once they take root within, may intermingle and converge, and through their union poison the soul, compel deeds most disgraceful, or excite with the temper of a demon..."