On the Marvelous Occurrences in the World

For just as mathematicians rise from the smallest and self-evident principles to immense and most subtle demonstrations, not otherwise shall we proceed from these small gifts of literature to graver matters in the mathematical fashion, and we shall endeavor to deserve something well of your clemency. Farewell. From our house in Paris, 1542.

TO THE SAME BISHOP OF

NOYON,

A six-line poem.

If you wish to know what wise nature, what art, what skill, and the heavens
can accomplish in human affairs:
These little books, which we have recalled from the shadows by our art,
and which we dedicate to you, will duly provide each thing.
For each has drawn back the veils of the foul night:
And they offer an easy path to weightier things.