To Momus.

In Greek mythology, Momus was the personification of satire, mockery, and unfair criticism. In Renaissance literature, authors frequently addressed "Momus" in their prefaces to ward off critics who might disparage their work without understanding it.

I do not deny that Momus will look down upon my chemical verses,

Indeed, I desire this very thing, which the Muse requested long ago:

original: "Chymico insipidis displicuisse libro." The author suggests that if "insipid" or witless people dislike the book, it is a sign of the book's specialized value.
Let it be enough for me to have found favor with the good and those skilled in the Art;

Though my chemical verses may seem foolish to you, Momus,

original: "Verba tamen rebus non caruisse scio." A common defense in technical writing: the style may be plain, but the "rebus" (the matter or facts of alchemy) are solid.
An "insipid" work, to a man for whom the proven writings of the Sages Sophorum The "Sages" (Latin: Sophi) refers to the legendary masters of alchemy, such as Hermes Trismegistus, whose hidden wisdom was the foundation of the craft.

These initials refer to Nikolaus Mai (Nicolaus Maius), a poet and counselor to Emperor Rudolf II, who was deeply involved in the alchemical circles of the time.