The History of Barlaam and Josaphat

To the High-born Lord, Lord

Eytelfriderich, Count of Hohenzollern,

Sigmaringen, and Veringen, Lord of Haigerloch and

Wehrstein, Hereditary Chamberlain of the Holy Roman

Empire, Councilor to His Roman Imperial Majesty, etc. My

friendly, dearly beloved Lord

Father, etc.

A decorative woodcut initial 'D' features floral and scrollwork patterns.

Because it has always been the custom until now (High-born, friendly, dearly beloved Lord Father) that anyone who wished to have something published in print should dedicate and address it to one of his good acquaintances, lords, or friends, etc. Generally, however, and not without reason, they address it to those from whom they have received the most grace or benefits. Therefore, I have wished to act in the same manner with this small work of mine, which I have applied to the translation of half of this little book. And because I know no one in this world from whom I could have received more grace and benefits than from you, Lord Father, considering that I have obtained everything I have and everything I am, after God, from the same; therefore do I