DEDICATION

be transferred to the use of the State. I hand down these principles in First Philosophy, which is commonly called Ontology The study of the nature of being and existence., and in Cosmology The study of the origin and development of the universe., the fruits of which the remaining parts of philosophy shall bear. Therefore, just as I placed First Philosophy at the feet of YOUR MAJESTY with a most humble and reverent mind, so that I might honor your favorable disposition toward Science with public devotion; so too, with the highest submission of spirit, I also deliver this Cosmology to those same feet, so that a public testimony of my obedience in fulfilling the duties most mercifully entrusted to me may stand forth. You abound with such great mercy toward Your subjects, MOST MERCIFUL KING, and you embrace them with such great love, that we all with one voice compel the Divine Power of God, the Best and Greatest original: "Numen T. O. M." (Ter Optimi Maximi). A common Latin formula for God, adapted from the Roman title for Jupiter., with unwearied prayers for the safety and well-being of YOUR MAJESTY.