Isatis herba

TO THE READER.

Just as we know that the ancient inhabitants were driven out for their idolatry, the perversity of their lives, and their impenitence, and as the scripture speaks, were "vomited out," so too does it behoove the inhabitants of these lands now, which we know to be happy in the name of fertility, to celebrate the praises of their creator and benefactor, to acknowledge Him, and, for the benefit received, to never cease to offer thanks, mindful of piety. And if they act otherwise, let them know that punishments certainly hang over them, so that instead of a blessing, they may easily bring back a curse. And if there are any who will say that this is done outside the reason of my duty or profession, being that the task of teaching in the church of Christ has been committed to me, I trust that if they consider the matter with a fairer mind, they will find me to be a more lenient judge or critic. For who is there who would judge a man, whatever his profession, as unworthy of the knowledge of things hidden in nature, when, to pass over other infinite advantages, that very knowledge leads and entices the minds of men toward a silent admiration