An ornate woodcut headpiece features two seated cherubs flanking a heraldic shield displaying a chevron between three stars, set amidst foliate scrollwork.

TO THE VENERABLE AND MOST ILLUSTRIOUS

CHAPTER

OF CHARTRES

TO THE NOBLE MEN,

DEAN AND CANONS,

This small work, which breathes entirely of the Virgin, looks to you, O VIRGINAL MEN. You are the virgins of the gods of old, you are the ministers of THE VIRGIN. Indeed, as priests of the Great God, you celebrate the praises of the Mētroparthenou Mother-Virgin day and night. Addicted to her with all the affection I can muster, I seek from you the endorsement of my study and devotion toward her, while I freely place the gifts I bring into your hands. I hold as sacred to THE VIRGIN that which is dedicated to you; I consider it reckless to approach her except through you and under your guidance. That you will allow this will be called right and lawful. Others honor THE MOTHER; you also honor THE ONE WHO IS TO GIVE BIRTH referring to the prophecy of the Virgin Mary, with ancient virtue and admirable faith. You occupy a mystery that filled the World before it existed. Many give thanks for the magnificence of God; you give thanks also for the promise of that magnificence. You recognize that, if it was of divine liberality to have given, it was of incomparable mercy to have promised. You know that such a great miracle could not have happened unless the World were in labor long before, with many portents preceding it, which would prepare the minds of men for it. Therefore, THE VIRGIN WHO IS TO GIVE BIRTH is nothing trivial or empty.