Decorative headpiece consisting of four rows of repeating fleurons. Below it, a large ornamental drop cap 'I' featuring the letter within a square frame decorated with scrolling foliage and a bird.

TO THE READER

Preface.

Among the countless blessings of God, which Divine mercy exercises daily toward the whole human race, and especially toward His faithful, I would believe this one to be singular: namely, the Knowledge of the malice and impiety of our enemies, both visible and invisible. Thus, once their cunning is known, we may place obstacles where they prepare and attempt their stumbling blocks. Truly, since the pride Psalm 73 original: "Ps. 73." The author cites the biblical verse describing the ever-increasing arrogance of the wicked. of those who hate God ascends and grows ever greater day by day, that poisonous enemy of the human race—whose cruelty grows hotter and hotter—does not fear to sow among us the sharpest thorns of sorrows, tribulations, and various kinds of infirmities. Although he reaps briars for himself, increasing his own eternal punishments and sharpening his pains, he does so provided that he may lead as great a multitude of men as possible down to Hell original: "Inferna", and [destroy] the image of the Most High...