On the Illusions of Demons

original: "libet inelegantem sit sortita artificem..." This sentence begins mid-thought from the previous page. though it may have chanced upon an unrefined craftsman, the subject is sufficient in itself, and can and should commend itself to the eyes of all. This is especially true because of the many matters brought more fully into the light, which until now lay hidden as either unknown or obscure. I am not unaware that it was once a common proverb among the Greeks, thrown at men dealing clumsily with a noble subject: original: "Proba quidem materia, si probum nacta fuerit artificem" "Excellent material indeed, if only it had found an excellent craftsman." Yet, I allow anyone the freedom to decide whatever they please regarding the craftsman’s work.

For as far as I am concerned, I do not plead against the rebuke of any sneering Momus (Momus): The Greek god of satire and mockery, used here to represent a hyper-critical reader, or any keen-sighted Aristarchus (Aristarchus): A celebrated ancient scholar of Homer, often used as a name for a very strict or pedantic critic, or even the censure of a stern Cato (Cato): Referring to Cato the Elder, famous in Rome for his rigid morality and harsh judgment, if I should deserve it. Likewise, I do not greatly hunt for the "popular breeze" A common Latin idiom (aura popularis) for public favor or fame or any other praise, relying on the good conscience (conscientia) with which I began this weaving (tela): A metaphor comparing the writing of a book to the weaving of a cloth or tapestry. The day will come when each person's praise will come from the Lord. As long as His glory increases and the tyranny of Satan (satanæ tyrannis) is diminished, my wishes will be more than satisfied.