To the most Illustrious and
Excellent Lord Don
Antonio Medici.
Antonio N eri.
conclusions, I have compiled a Treatise of them, with as much clearness as I could, to the end to publish it to the world, to please and delight (as much as in me a 3 (lay
The Epistle Dedicatory.
lay) men understanding in that
profession, having found out ma¬ny things by my own invention, and some others tried by able men, and found moil true. I will make
manifest those hidden Mysteries, for the reasons abovesaid. If I do attain this my intention it
shall occasion me hereafter to be encouraged to publish the rest of my Labours about other Chvmi-
cal and Physical matters, hiving likewise in both experimented, many most profitable , credible,
and admirable Conclusions, for n0 other reason, but to understand them truly. I judge that I ought not to dedicate this Book to any other, but your Illustrious Excel¬lence, who have been always my
singular Protector, as also, because
you are understanding of this, and
of
The Epistle Dedicatory.
of whatsoever Noble and Precious knowledge, being exercised con¬
tinually in all these Arts, which are requited in a true and gene¬
rous Prince; I beseech you then to accept, if not the work, yet my devout mind towards your great merit, and vertue of your most Il¬
lustrious Excellence, for whom I pray to God to prove on you all happiness.
From Florence,
6 Jan.1611.
To