M. VITRUVIUS ON ARCHITECTURE

BOOK ONE.

A decorative initial 'C' features floral and foliate scrollwork.When your divine mind and spirit, Imperator Caesar, took possession of the empire of the world, and all enemies were struck down by your invincible valor, and all citizens rejoiced in your triumph and victory, and all conquered nations looked upon your nod, and the Roman people and Senate were freed from fear, being governed by your most extensive agitations and counsels, I did not dare to publish writings on architecture, explained with great thought, during such great occupations, fearing that by interrupting at an inappropriate time I might incur the offense of your spirit. But when I observed that you not only held concern for the common life of all and the constitution of the public state, but also for the necessity of public buildings, so that through you the city might not only be increased by public works, but that the majesty of the empire might have outstanding authority through its public buildings, I did not think it should be overlooked, but that I should publish these things to you at the very first opportunity. I was known to your parent regarding this matter, and was a student of his valor. When the council of the celestials dedicated him in the seats of immortality and transferred the empire of your parent into your power, my same devotion, remaining in his memory, conferred favor upon me. Therefore, with M. Aurelius, P. Minidius, and Cn. Cornelius, I was ready for the preparation of ballistae and scorpions and the repair of other...