Aphorisms of Hippocrates

...and from there we derive our own rivulets. I published the three books of the Method of Healing (which have already been printed three times) thirteen years ago. What do you find in the first and second book that is shared with others who have written on Method? But you will say of the third book, where you deal with the primary Indication, that many things were transferred from others to your own use. I ask: is it shameful to imitate, and to produce the best things for the use of the Commonwealth in a more convenient form and elegance? Compare the method of the most learned Fernelius, Ferrarius, Pernumia, and others with our own; I will gladly and deservedly yield to their most clear doctrine, but in practice, for your benefit, I will not yield even to them. Thus, I have now entered the vast whirlpool in this work, hoping for the patronage of good men, lest I be overwhelmed by the insults of the envious. For I preferred to risk the disapproval of those who criticize for the sake and utility of students, rather than to defraud them of the fruit, if there is any prepared by God the Best and Greatest through my labors. Therefore, friendly Reader, in order to consider your time, I have opened the mind of Hippocrates briefly and clearly. Which, let there be no envy in my saying this, Momus will blame sooner than he will imitate. I would wish that those who grumble in this way, and likewise anyone who wishes to try their hand at the writings of others, would make something better than these, for the door to glory is closed to no one. For why should I wish for anything other than to see the sentiment of Hippocrates opened briefly? But I know well enough: they will say it is a more difficult task than they had ever imagined. Wherefore, friendly Reader, are you not with me in this? It is fitting for Momus to favor those who wish to be useful: therefore,

I had recently decided to illustrate the entire Hippocrates in this way with our brief commentaries; if I change my mind, friendly reader, you will blame this on grumbling Momus, not on me. Farewell, best and friendly reader, and enjoy kindly and happily these things which are said for your convenience.