Phytognomonica

The content itself, having cast aside all seductive finery original: "lenociniÿs"; referring here to superficial rhetorical flourishes, flies to you, well-pleased with its own form. Her tongue is not that of a Roman or Athenian matron original: "Attica matrona"; implying she does not speak with the sophisticated or elite grace of classical Latin or Greek, but that of a simple girl. This much I promise: those things which are covered by rags will be far more beautiful and pleasant than those which are seen on the outside. Therefore, whoever contemplates her more deeply and inwardly shall obtain more abundant fruit and more complete devotion; for she provides access to retreats hidden far away. She so deceives those who merely gaze upon her face that they do not even know they are mistaken. If any of the ringlets of her hair should be flawed, rendering her tresses disheveled, or if her garment is soiled or poorly girded—things which might have escaped the diligence and notice of a handmaid (for eyes cannot be as sharp as a lynx's original: "lyncei"; a reference to Lynceus the Argonaut, famed for his supernatural sight)—may you be inclined toward forgiveness; for she, fearing lest the love of such a great man might desert her, hurried to you with too much haste. Whence, if you did not love her when she was not yet yours, I wish that you would cherish her now that she is yours; that you would undertake to protect and love her, and that through you she might receive safe patronage original: "patrocinium"; legal or social protection provided by a patron against those who labor under foolish ignorance. If I perceive that she is accepted by you, I shall care nothing for others who do not admire her, and her sister shall hasten more quickly to your brother Junius. Farewell, and love me as you are accustomed to do.