On the Institution of Arithmetic

Boethius's Arithmetic.

A large decorative woodcut drop-cap 'I' features intricate floral and vine patterns.

Here begins the first book of arithmetic by the most illustrious man, Anicius Manlius Severinus Boethius.

In the giving and receiving of gifts, it is right for those things flowing from him, that neither he who wishes to be considered liberal... arithmetic... free... but... many... for arithmetic... that... the discipline of the liberal arts... according to... arithmetic...?

...work... to be multiplied... and that... masters... laborious leisure... to whom... arithmetic... in those things which... it treats... speed... to posterity... letters...?