DEDICATION

praising original: "laudatam"; this word completes the sentence from the previous page in this way, I feel, whatever diligence I applied during those two years which I had spent in administering and distinguishing my former post original: "priori provinciæ"; refers to his initial academic appointment or "province" of duty.

But since these are truly your favors toward me—yours, Prince Casimir, and yours, Illustrious Lords—favors which are certainly greatest and most worthy of your Highness Celsitudo: a formal title of honor for royalty or high-ranking officials and your most noble spirits; what do I have that I might give in return? Certainly nothing, except that I might hold and dedicate myself entirely, along with whatever talent, diligence, and labor I may ever possess, as sacred to you. Indeed, I can do nothing else, nor anything greater, even if it is perhaps unworthy of your greatness and certainly unequal to the benefits you have bestowed upon me.

Therefore, most High and Magnificent Lords, you understand that this little book libellus: literally "little book," a common humble term used by authors for their own published works is already yours; for truly, I would not have otherwise dared to reach such a height of audacity as to dedicate it to you, lest perhaps anyone think that I myself valued the work so highly The author is being humble, suggesting that the book only gains value because it belongs to his patrons.

I ask and beseech you, therefore, Great-souled Prince, and you, Most Noble Men, that you receive it with that same countenance and spirit with which you are accustomed to receive your own things—that is, with a serene and willing mind. And with that same hand...