On the Illusions of Demons

DEDICATORY EPISTLE

...protection, or would even dare to swear an oath. For every person is aware of how Your Highness holds in "more than Vatinian" hatred original: "odio plusquam Vatiniano"; a classical idiom for extreme, irreconcilable hatred, named after the Roman Publius Vatinius all those who do not blush to profane the awesome name of God with their constant swearing. Because of this blasphemy, which makes almost every court ring out horribly, men of the Christian religion rightly grieve and mourn, seeing the open wounds that have arisen from it.

I say nothing here of your continuous labors in reading the petitions original: "libellorum supplicum" and other writings that flow in daily, and in providing mature responses to them. Who would not deeply admire original: "exosculetur"; literally "to kiss," implying profound respect or devotion this single, incomparable example of a truly fatherly affection toward the flock of subjects committed to your protection? Among these subjects, who has ever heard the disparaging name of "Churls" original: "Carlorum nomen"; likely referring to a derogatory term for commoners or peasants, similar to the English "churls"—which is constantly on the lips of others—being cast at them by Your Highness? Instead, you frequently honor them with the most gentle name of "sons."

Indeed, everyone knows that nothing is so much the object of Your Highness's zeal and care as to preserve your state original: "rempublicam" in perpetual and absolute tranquility. You have demonstrated this with rare, indeed divine, prudence during these most turbulent recent years, while the din of war raged everywhere around Your Highness's vast territories, yet without shaking them.

Nor does it merit the least praise—indeed, it should be proclaimed to all posterity—that like a Maecenas A famous Roman patron of the arts; the term became a synonym for a generous supporter of scholars and artists to learned men, you occasionally make a singular selection of talented minds from among those whom you send to foreign regions and renowned [academies] in every discipline...