Origin of Discoveries Attributed to the Moderns

not been the production of philosophical geniuses, but the effect of pure chance, or the experience of some ignorant artisans. It is mainly to bring to light this primary truth regarding the part that the Ancients have in our knowledge, and even in what the Moderns call discoveries, that I have undertaken this Work, for which I dare to hope for all the indulgence from the Public that efforts more animated by the love of truth than by any other motive may deserve.