Page 11 - Charnock alchemical letter
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alchemy. Charnock’s Epistle is an entirely engaging series of stories,
some humorous, whether intentionally or otherwise. It gives a rare
insight into the mind of an alchemist struggling to find a means for
undertaking the expensive work of alchemy.

     Charnock though brave and confident sadly failed to find a
benefactor to support his work. Another of his verses from MS. Ashmole
1445 sums up the amazing positivity and optimism of this remarkable
man:

     30 years truly I practised this science
     And was never the richer by two pence
     But rather a hundred marks the worse.
     Yet hereafter I trust to fill my purse
     And help myself and the poor at need
     For so God’s word does me lead
     And who so to live a godly life doth endeavour
     God give him this science for his succour.

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