Preface.

began to practice the good arts, so that they eventually, through their own particular magnanimity original: Großmütigkeit; refers to a greatness of soul or noble character that Maier attributes to the Germanic people, drew to themselves the dominion of the Roman Empire and Monarchy. Furthermore, all of Germany was built up with respectable and excellent cities, fortresses, and castles, and fortified against all external power. Regarding the liberal arts, excellent schools and universities were established here and there, wherein the youth were instructed in good languages, morals, and arts, so that they might more fortunately serve the common good original: gemeinē Nußen; the "commonwealth" or public benefit.

Among other excellent matters, however, there has been brought to light by this our German nation, in affairs of war, the art of the master gunner Büchsenmeisterey; the technical craft of artillery and firearms, as well as the preparation of powder and of ordnance original: Geschüßes; heavy weaponry or cannons. This is an art which, if kept to its proper use, produces excellent benefit. Indeed, if it had been kept secret among Christendom alone and hidden from the unbelievers, one could have used it against them with great advantage. As for what has also [been achieved] in the good arts, languages, and sciences—