De hepatis inflammatione theses

A decorative woodcut initial 'V' begins the text.

TO THE MOST AMPLIFIED MEN,
most excellent in learning, prudence, authority, and wisdom, the Councilors and other Senators of the Saxon Salt-Works Halle (Saale), known for its salt production, the Lords and Patrons to be honored with perpetual respect.

Aristotle, in the 8th book of Ethics, says: "Many wish to receive benefits, but avoid conferring them, as if it were unprofitable" original: "εὖ πάσχειν οἱ πολλοὶ βόλονται, τὸ δὲ ποιεῖν φεύγουσιν ὡς ἀλυσιτελές". I believe this is pronounced regarding the ungrateful, who, since they delight in the most shameful of all vices, deserve to be marked everywhere. But however the philosopher is to be understood, when he makes mention of "the many," no one will deny, nor can they deny, that many others are found, indeed as many as possible, who do not merely rejoice in being benefited, but have nothing more important, nothing more in their prayers, than if some occasion presents itself by which they can, if not repay, then at least give thanks to their benefactors. I have labored with all the zeal I could to be one of this number. And although, hindered by the inequity of fortune, I have been able to repay nothing in fact thus far, I have never let any time pass in which I have not studiously and perpetually observed the other. It is an ancient and truly worthy saying that should be extolled with praise at all times: "Gratitude is what adorns all human affairs" original: "ἡ πάντα τὰ ἀνθρώπινα ἐπικοσμῆσαι χάρις". I wish I could see that very day, which I desire and yearn to see above all others, when I could not only give thanks, but also repay all to whom I am indebted. But if I consider to whom I am most indebted above all others, it is necessary that I grant the palm to my Fatherland, and to those who sit at its helm.