Geoponica: De re rustica libri XX

I nevertheless felt that something should be offered, or rather returned, for it came from your own Treasury original: "Thesauro." This refers to Bishop Moore’s famous personal library, which was one of the greatest in England and later became the foundation of the Cambridge University Library.; which you have indeed gathered from all over with as much judgment as expense. Your purpose was not for these manuscripts original: "Codices" to fall prey to moths and bookworms, but so that, through being handled by everyone, they might serve the needs of all those cultured in literature. Therefore, receive with favor these, your Agricultural Labors original: "Γεωπονικὰ" (Geoponica). This title refers to the collection of ancient lore on farming, gardening, and natural history that Needham has edited using manuscripts from the Bishop's collection., as a testimony of the immense favors you have bestowed upon me. Be assured that I shall strive with all my might to show the only gratitude within my power, so that I may not appear entirely unworthy of your kindness.

Peter Needham.