Institutes of Oratory

I might say, without risk of envy, that in the midst of the storms
and tempests of wars, the Academy has raised its head so high
that, if we count the years (which are not many more than fifty),
it can challenge any of the world's Universities original: "Academias". In the seventeenth century, "Academy" was a standard term for a University, specifically the University of Leiden in this context.
in the greatness and number of its excellent men. When these
things come to my mind original: "animũ". This refers to the seat of thought and feeling., most illustrious LEADERS original: "PROCERES". This refers to the high-ranking officials of the States of Holland, the governing body to whom the book is dedicated.,
I truly declare you fortunate. By your merits, God has willed
that this Academy and the entire Republic original: "Rempublicam". Referring to the Dutch Republic, which was then a major European power.
should owe so much to you. This debt is shared not only by our
citizens, but also by the foreigners who seek your assistance.
Moreover, it is shared by refined people everywhere who love
the study of letters original: "literarũ". In this context, it refers to the "humanities" or classical learning..

For this reason, just as I congratulate you from the bottom of
my heart, I also rejoice for myself. It has been my lot to be
steeped in the sciences original: "scientiis". Here, the term refers to formal branches of knowledge and scholarly disciplines.
from my boyhood. I have lived my life in safety until now under
your rule, in a land flourishing in both the arts of war and
every kind of learning. Indeed, for fifteen years now I have
seen myself joined with the most brilliant lights of this
Academy by your favor. I am well aware that I have received
brilliance from this institution rather than brought any
brilliance to it. Therefore, to testify to my grateful spirit
for that benevolent affection toward me, which you have
demonstrated through other benefits, I offer