Geographical Treasury

...to provide kind and generous assistance for the necessary expenses. I say assistance, because my own affairs and resources have been so reduced that I would not dare to undertake any great work, much less be able to finish one by my own strength. Therefore, he Referring to Abraham Ortelius, the author. gave this TREASURY to me as a gift. It was sought out, discovered, unearthed, cleaned, and decorated by him as if by a divine rod Original: "virgâ diuinâ." This likely refers to a dowsing rod or divining rod, a metaphor for Ortelius's ability to find and "mine" rare geographic information from ancient sources.. Because of our long-standing close friendship and friendly intimacy, he commanded that I should treat it as my own property.

I now place this gift in your hands. I address and dedicate it to you. Please receive this royal work, which is worthy of you: the tutor of the Royal youth, the Royal Almoner, and the Royal Geographer. Farewell, noble and Reverend man. Continue to support us and favor our efforts as you always do.

Antwerp, May 6, 1587. Original: "pridie Non. Maij. clɔ. Iɔ. LXXXVII." The Nones of May fell on the 7th, making the day before the Nones May 6.