[De contemptu mundi]

to their own health: provided they were performed in the mind: and took root: to that extent they would the more increase love: and abdicate the soul from the allurements of this world. Philosophers indeed dictate that custom is a second nature. If a man has persevered in good work: and the nature of the intellect has supported it a little: goodness will certainly increase day by day: and afterwards it will not easily be able to be rooted out. Finally, we proposed in our mind: that for the beginning of this exercise, to the praise of the almighty God, and for the consolation of many who live with us in various anxieties of this world among thorns and brambles: we should compose one little book: which we wish to be titled On the contempt of this world. And when it has been read by someone: and he has received from it some consolation: I ask that he not disdain to be mindful of us in his prayers toward the creator of all.

¶ The first chapter begins concerning the creation of the first man and for what purpose man was created.

Ornate decorative initial 'Q' with a lowercase 'q' form inside a red double-lined circle, with red scrolling calligraphic flourishes extending to the left.

For when the divine goodness had completed the works of five days through his word: and had seen that all things were very