M. Vitruvii ... De architectura libri decem, ad Augustum Caesarem accuratiss. conscripti

But let us remember that he did not leave this work so that we might learn eloquence from it. He himself also apologizes in several places for having a less cultivated style of speech: and he asks that indulgence be granted to him, which it is fair to concede to an architect. And perhaps the subject he treats is of that kind which, as Manilius says, does not sustain being adorned with a more elegant style, provided they are taught. And his diction is simple, rather than impure or corrupt: so that you may easily perceive that it was done more by neglect than by ignorance that you desire greater polish in it. He intersperses Greek words from time to time: either because he did not have Latin ones with which he could express everything he wished: or because the Greek words were already sufficiently known and in common use, even among the Romans. For just as the more exquisite structure of buildings, and machines made with more subtle craft, and other things of that kind: likewise music and whatever arts pertain to a more cultivated life, came from Greece into Italy, so they also brought with them the names by which they might refer to their origin. Now we struggle greatly in understanding these words, which then, because of the knowledge of the things, were in common use. But this obscurity can be overcome by diligence and study, which deters some from daring to test how arduous or troublesome the labor will be for them. Therefore, this fact should not have diminished Vitruvius's favor among men who are not lazy: but rather should have excited their industry, so that they might approach his reading with more attentive effort. Furthermore, there are causes that bring him no small commendation: because he alone stands out to us in this kind of subject: and he has executed that very thing so diligently and accurately that one could hardly require anything more absolute, as far as faith and truth are concerned. You will perhaps ask, to what end does it lead you to learn ancient architecture? First, if I answer that the honest pleasure which is taken from it should not be considered for nothing: many, I think, would grant that to me. For there are not a few who look to this fruit in large part in literature. But if this is the only end, you will say, it will be permissible to despise it without great loss, I confess, if that were the case. But not pleasure alone: but manifest and not regrettable utility can be derived from it; and that is manifold. For how much...