DEDICATION

...among so many literary works original: "Libraria Opera", by which your City shines out above others through a certain natural blessing, and is seen to preside over them as if she were a foster-child of the Muses original: "Musarum Alumna" — the Muses were the ancient goddesses of the arts and sciences; the author suggests the city is a primary center of learning., or at least that you might allow it to be placed somewhere among them. If you make me, your humble citizen, a sharer in this wish, it will certainly not be a cause of regret to have extended the token of hospitality original: "hospitalitatis tesseram" — a reference to the ancient custom of using a small token or "tessera" to establish a permanent bond of friendship between a host and a guest. to an English man original: "Anglo Homini" — a reference to the author, Eirenaeus Philalethes, whose identity was famously associated with England., and to have kindly received this work now printed anew in Germany. But I indeed shall seem to have attained no small part of my happiness in this, if I...

DEDICATION

...understand that this attempt of mine has not displeased you, Most Splendid Leaders original: "Splendidissimi Proceres" — a high-ranking title for the city's magistrates or council members., and that my spirit—which will offer sacrifice even with salted meal original: "salsa mola" — in Roman religion, a humble offering of grain and salt used by those who could not afford expensive incense. The author is being modest about the value of his book. when incense is not available—will be accepted. Indeed, I shall weary the Eternal Divinity original: "Æternum Numen" — a scholarly way of referring to God. with constant prayers that you and your most generous as well as noble families may remain among human affairs as long as possible, and continue to preside over this most flourishing Republic original: "Florentissimæ Reipublicæ" — at this time, "Republic" referred to the organized state or city-state government. which owes the strength of its happiness to your most prudent counsels, and finally with perpetual...