DEDICATION.

To the Illustrious and Magnificent Man

Lord ANTONIO MAGLIABECHI,

Director of the Library of the Most Serene and Powerful Prince and Lord

COSIMO III,

Grand Duke of Tuscany,

original: "Magnae Etruriae Ducis." Tuscany was often referred to by its ancient name, Etruria, in formal Latin texts of this period.

ANTONY van LEEUWENHOEK sends his heartiest greetings. original: "S. P." abbreviating "Salutem Plurimam," a standard formal greeting in Latin correspondence.

A large decorative drop cap 'Q' containing a central human face within an ornate circular frame, surrounded by symmetrical floral and foliate scrollwork.

The letters which you have sent to me on more than one occasion, illustrious Sir, are such manifest signs of your goodwill and singular kindness toward me, that I am sometimes overcome with a blush of modesty; especially when I recall,