Three Books on Gold

...and it was hidden to such a degree that I could scarcely elicit the true meaning through artificial conjecture. Yet, I finally grasped it, and with as much diligence as I could, I took care that it should come to light as emended as possible. Therefore, since there is nothing else at present by which I might satisfy, in some part, the magnitude of your duties and merits toward me, I have decided to offer this little gift as a testament of my mind, which is mindful of you. I thought it would be pleasing to you, who are both most skillful in investigating the secrets of nature and most adorned in every kind of virtue. Concerning this matter, although I see a very wide field proposed to me, so that speech could never fail anyone, I have nevertheless deemed it better to be silent than to say but a few things. For there are so many virtues and praises which are everywhere and not unjustly proclaimed about you, that there would be no less labor in recounting them than if one wished to enumerate either the stars or the waves of the sea. For who would not say that I am fishing for your favor, by which you pursue me with your singular kindness and clemency, far beyond my merit? You, therefore, receive this little gift with a cheerful countenance, which indeed, as long as it remained with me, I always wished to be published under your name—not so that you might defend it from the bites of detractors, since it easily protects itself from the snares of the ignorant and from those who understand nothing of the powers of nature and the excellence of art—but so that, like a new and most beautiful bride adorned with many dowries, it may proceed to its wedding under your guidance. Thus, no one of petulant tongue will dare to attack it with curses, lest he also harm you, whom all observe and venerate in some way; or if, by chance—which God forbid—anyone should dare to bark something, it will more easily protect itself under your name and auspices, and many will undertake its defense for the sake of your supreme dignity and supreme virtue. Farewell, most ample Prelate, most firm column of the Holy Church, and love me as you are wont. Given at Ferrara, on the 15th day before the Kalends of January, 1586.