Manichaeism before the Manichaeans, and its Revival in Christianity

Three horizontal bands of ornamental fleurons depicting stylized floral rosettes.

While I dare to prefix the names of both of you, EXCELLENT PATRONS, upon these humble pages, I expect that some will be curious as to what causes stood as the authors and persuaders of this undertaking original: "hujus instituti"; others, in turn, will likely be troubled that I have proceeded with such boldness as to submit a slight work—one recommending itself by no gifts of either talent or learning original: "doctrinæ"—to the most refined judgment original: "limatissimo... judicio" of both of you. This is the reason why I intend to explain the logic of my undertaking to the former in this place; while for the sake of the latter, I have wisely decided in my mind to seek your pardon for my audacity. Concerning the prio-