The Game of Chess Moralized

Here begins the Game of Chess, translated from Latin
into French at the request of the noble prince John of France.

Most noble and excellent prince John of France, Duke of Normandy The future King John II, known as "John the Good" (reigned 1350–1364). At the time of this translation, he was the heir to the throne. and eldest son of Philip, by the grace of God King of France: Sire, I, Jean de Vignay, your humble servant in religion among the others of your lordship, wish you health and victory over your enemies.

Very dear and very dreaded lord, because I have understood and know well that you listen gladly to things that are profitable and honorable, and which tend toward the instruction of good morals, I have translated a little book from Latin into French that recently came into my hands, in which many authorities Original: "auctoritez." In a medieval context, this refers to the sayings and writings of respected ancient authors or Church Fathers used to prove a point.