D E D I C A T I O N.

For there is no such dignity in our small work,
that it might have anything that deserves to be
offered to YOU, or could be pleasing to YOU.
There are other reasons, MOST SERENE
PRINCE, which cry out that whatever our
fatherland produces in terms of labors, whether of
intellect or of work, is owed uniquely to YOU.

Let us look at the present condition of our
Republic: it will easily appear to whom, above
all others, the reason for the leisure granted
to us must be rendered.

Are not all these things the benefits of the
most happy Peace, which we enjoy? Because the
farmer cheerfully cultivates his field,