D E D I C A T I O N .

Latin: DEDICATIO

I have decided to publish this work once more, revised in several places, and to commend it to your patronage Latin: patrocinio; the formal protection or support offered by a person of high status to an author or client. My hope is that, by being inscribed with such a distinguished name, it may be shielded from the unfair criticisms of our detractors and find favor in the eyes of those who might find some use in it.

However, I do not dedicate this little work to you simply to find a protector for it. I do so also so that there might exist a lasting monument Latin: monumentum; a memorial or physical testimony of my gratitude for the singular kindness and affection with which you have embraced me—undeserving as I am. Furthermore, I wish to declare publicly how great an honor I consider it to have found a place among your friends. These friends, whom your own virtue Latin: virtus; here referring to the patron's excellence, character, and talent has gathered to you in great numbers across many nations, are men distinguished by their scholarly pursuits Latin: litterarum studiis; literally "the study of letters," encompassing all academic and scientific learning, their noble birth, or their high office. And how...