Theses de corde et eius vitiis

TO THE MOST REVEREND AND MOST ILLUSTRIOUS PRINCE AND LORD, Lord Johannes IX, most pious Bishop of Meissen, most worthy Prelate of the Diocese of Naumburg, his most clement lord.

A decorative initial letter N features a floral or vine-like pattern.

There is no less interest in studies in the present day than there once was, most clement Prince. However, the ratio of dignity is disparate. For while many are addicted to wealth, it happens that the more the number of the learned increases, the less value is placed upon learning itself, and there are even fewer who cherish the students of these studies with their own liberality. Nevertheless, in this regard, God, the best and greatest, has wished for studies to be well provided for, for He has granted us who pursue studies a few patrons, yet those who take the place of many. Since, therefore, most illustrious Prince, the study of letters is a matter of the greatest care for your Excellency before many others, you are worthy of all the greater praise the more you find those to whom these studies are objects of contempt. Furthermore, I shall testify, with such observance and gratitude of mind as I am able, to the benevolence you have shown towards many, surely in my own name and in the name of my dearest and most venerable father, for the favor and benefits with which your Excellency has treated us up to this time. This, indeed, was the reason for the duty which my mind, most eager for gratitude, has constantly held, until such time as an opportunity might arise by which my efforts could be satisfactorily fulfilled. Therefore, I have judged that these Theses should be dedicated to your Excellency, not moved by such impetuosity of rashness as if this matter were so great that it would be deemed worthy of your name, but solely for this reason: