The Images of Philostratus

is not of so little merit that it cannot sufficiently recommend itself. Or rather, I seek to take advantage of your shade and favor in this, my overly bold undertaking and my too-weak effort. I look to you as one might look to some great, branchu-fueillu thickly-branched and leafy Chesne Oak tree, to place myself beneath its cover. There, I am sheltered against the hail, the strikes, and the storm: against the impetuousness and assaults of evil tongues. These tongues are drenched in detractions disparagements, shouting, slanders, and the barking of a pack of vain and idle "charity-lenders," regratteurs petty critics, controllers, censors, appraisers, and revisors of the works of others. They do this only to appear more skillful than they actually are. Regarding this point, I know very well that your authority and reputation can do much to excuse my imbecillité weakness and my faults. But on the other hand, I consider that all the favors, recommendations, and support; all the goodwill and inclinations of the most affectionate cheerleaders; all the vain and fleeting applause of the light-headed and ignorant partisans, could not give more credit and vogue to an author than he gives to himself. Such things could not make him more sufficient or capable than he is. Likewise, all the neglect and setbacks, all the envious eyes, and the biting nails of jealous, watchful Critiques Critics, can steal nothing from the little that I have. They cannot alter, pervert, or disguise that which I freely and with good will force myself to bring to light for the utility, recreation, and contentment of this people. Now, as for those troublesome barkers whose breed was never lacking, along with all the followers of that same vaultrey pack of hounds: the wind carries them away. For to speak generally, it is just like a leashed hound being led about.