Steganography Vindicated, Unlocked and Illustrated

...of Mainz, you were elected Archbishop, and Arch-Chancellor The highest administrative official of the Holy Roman Empire, a position traditionally held by the Archbishop of Mainz. of the Holy Roman Empire, and Prince-Elector One of the elite group of princes who had the right to elect the Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire.. On that day, as you flew on your family wings closest to the Eagle The Eagle was the heraldic symbol of the Holy Roman Empire; Heidel is using poetic language to describe the Archbishop's rise to power alongside the Emperor., and strengthened the sacred nest of the Eagle with another column; on that day, I say, I believed that what I had so long desired with such great prayers for the innocence of Trithemius would come to pass.

For I know, and all know with me, how you are the most merciful among the merciful, the mildest among the mild, and how much you are accustomed to show gentleness to the humble and those subject to you. Thus, although this work of mine does not deserve to appear in the sight of Your Eminence, I trust nevertheless—since you are usually mild and merciful to all—that you will not be cruel to me alone. This is especially true when I have inscribed this submitted work, Steganography Vindicated, Unlocked, and Explained original: "Steganographiæ Vindicatæ, Referatæ & Illustratæ", with all the subjection and humility I can and must, to your Most Eminent Name, so that it may be defended from then on against the arrows of the envious.

But I was also greatly encouraged by the consideration that I undertook this bold task because I claim no right for myself in this work, nor do I look for any honor; rather, I wish for everything to redound to the innocence, fame, and name of Trithemius. You will therefore undertake his defense all the more willingly, as it will be more acceptable to the Catholic Church, the Order of Saint Benedict, and the Holy See of Mainz itself, especially for preserving the authority of historical records Heidel argues that if Trithemius is proven to be a scholar rather than a wizard, his historical writings will be seen as more reliable.. If you do this, I shall have reached the goal of happiness and attained the richest fruit of my labor.

Receive, therefore, this smallest work of mine, cherish it, and fare well in safety for a very long time for the sake of the Church, the Empire, and the Fatherland.

Thus I made my vow at Mainz on the first day of the year 1676.