Macdonald Research Group
Miscellany
For smelter fumes I have been named
I am an evil poisonous smoke...
But when from poison I am freed
Through art and sleight of hand,
Then can I cure both man and beast,
From dire disease oft times direct them;
But prepare me correctly, and take great care
That you faithfully keep watchful guard over me;
For else I am poison, and poison remain,
That pierces the heart of many a one.
Attributed to the probably mythical 15th century monk, Basilius Valentinus