TO HENRY III, MOST SE-

RENE KING OF THE FRENCH, AND OF THE PO-

les, etc. Phi-

lotheus Giordano

Bruno of Nola. Bruno uses the name "Philotheus," which means "Lover of God," a common pseudonym in his writings to emphasize the spiritual or philosophical nature of his work.

BRITISH MUSEUM LIBRARY

Heartiest Greetings.

original: "S. P.", an abbreviation for "Salutem Plurimam," a standard formal salutation in Latin letters.

Who is unaware (Most Sacred Majesty) that principal gifts are due to principal men; greater gifts to those who are greater; and the most principal gifts to the greatest of men? Therefore, let no one doubt why this work—accounted among the greatest because of the nobility of the subject with which it deals, the uniqueness of the invention upon which it relies, and the weight of the demonstration through which it is communicated—has looked toward you: an extraordinary spectacle for the nations, most distinguished by the virtue of an outstanding mind, most celebrated for the height of a sublime intellect, and therefore most rightly to be honored by the devotion of all the most illustrious, magnanimous, and learned men. It is yours to accept it with a gracious spirit, to protect it with your great favor, and to examine it with mature judgment, as you appear eminently noble, powerful, and wise. Henry III (1551–1589) was a noted patron of the arts and was particularly interested in the "art of memory," which Bruno claimed to teach. This dedication was a strategic move to secure the King's protection during Bruno's stay in Paris.

FAREWELL.