Key to the Things Hidden from the Foundation of the World

Mindful, therefore, of your piety reverence toward God and benignity kindness toward me, I could not but offer this small book, as a sign of a grateful mind, taken from the meager stock of my exile, and dedicate it, augmented and corrected, to your Magnificence and Generosity. I humbly ask that you be willing to receive it with that serene mind and friendly hand you are accustomed to, and that you deign to cherish me, a wretched exile, with your favor and patronage. FAREWELL and LIVE in Him, in whom you desire to be well and live original: "v. N. I. c. e." — likely "vivat nomen Iesu Christe" or similar, in CHRIST, with whom received, nothing is sad! Thus may it be for you, and with you, for yourself and for all.