DEDICATORY EPISTLE

original: "EPIST. NVNCVPATORIA"

I would weave here a fuller catalog of your virtues, were I not dealing with you, whom I know to be a despiser of immoderate praise, and who prefers to be good rather than to seem so. For me, however, it is a joy, when I perceive that I am held in such high regard by you, that with your kindness you not only encourage one who strives for higher things, but even aid with your magnificence one who has deserved nothing of the sort. I know indeed that there is nothing in me of such a kind that should have led a man of your generosity and dignity to seek my friendship; yet I cannot omit expressing how greatly I am delighted by this testimony of your goodwill or judgment, and for it I give you immortal thanks. From this matter I also easily understand how much I am failing to live up to your expectations of me. Nevertheless, as I hope, I will sufficiently fulfill them in some way, if I can uphold and defend the praise of your testimony either by the perpetual remembrance of a grateful mind or by any fruit of our studies. Fare well, fortunate Patron of Students, and think kindly of this our small work.