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Doctor Robert Fludd (Robertus de Fluctibus)

Chapter 9

C. R. C. goes to Damascus, though “but of the age of

sixteen years when he came thither, yet of a strong Dutch constitution.” Wise men there, expecting him, taught him many secrets. He there learned Arabic, “ Physick, and his Mathematics.” He next visited Arabia, where he further studied Arabic and the Cabala. He then came “ with many costly things into Spain,” where he “ prescribed to them new Axiomata.” Afterwards, C. R. C., “after many painful travels, returned into Germany.” He there bound three brethren “unto himself, to be faithful, diligent, and secret, as also to commit carefully to writing all that which he should direct and instruct them in, to the end that those that were to come, and through special revelation should be received into the Fraternity, might not be deceived of the least syllable or word. After this manner began the Fraternity of the Rosie Cross — first by four persons only.” Other four were, however, soon received, “ all bachelors, and of vowed virginity, by whom was collected a book or volume of all that which man can desire, wish, or hope for.” The brethren then separated, but, before doing so, agreed to six rules : —
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DOCTOR ROBERT FLUDD.
1. That their outward profession should be to cure the sick gratis.
2. That no special habit should be worn.
3. That every year, upon the day C., they should meet together at the house Sancti Spiritus,” or write cause of absence.
4. That every brother should look out for a suitable successor.
5. That the word R. C. should be their seal mark and character.
6. That the Fraternity should remain secret one hundred years.^
The burial - places remained secret. The founder,