To the Magnanimous Emperor of Russia

ALEXANDER I

An engraving of the Russian Imperial Coat of Arms, featuring a double-headed eagle. The eagle is crowned with the Imperial crown and holds a scepter in its right talon and an orb in its left. On its breast is a shield depicting Saint George on horseback slaying a dragon. This emblem is positioned at the start of the main text block.

Everywhere Fame sings of the greatness of your Justice, Kindness,
Mercy, and Generosity toward the People: A Hero of extraordinary spirit,
none greater for Posterity, without equal in this Age, the Excellent
Father of a Great Family; You, a powerful King and most illustrious
Patron original: "Maecenas," a reference to Gaius Maecenas, the famous Roman patron of the arts of great deeds; through the entire Universe, with the
highest Glory, your immortal Name is perpetually spread abroad:
I previously offered this laborious work in manuscript form to the
August Emperors original: "Caesaraugustis," a title used here for the Holy Roman Emperors
Joseph and Leopold the Second; now I hand it over in
print, dedicated to your Highness. Farewell.