Text.Penot.1595-01.A4v/Translation

Egidius de Vadis sends his warmest greetings to his friend N.

Do not be surprised at me (best of men), who, ignorant of all sciences, undertake such a great task beyond my strength. For virtue is of such vigor that it not only attracts the unknown with burning love and desire but also spurs the unknowing, the lazy, and the sluggish to crave the very marrow of all sciences. Among all these (as friends are wont to say), I do not forget you, especially since you are so endowed with virtues that I can hardly do anything without first spreading the virtue rooted in you, as far as my strength allows, to be honored above others. For honor (as the Philosopher testifies) is the reward of virtue: and indeed, to whom should it be attributed more rightly? Putting all flattery aside, I swear by God, I see many who claim great honors for themselves because of their ornate way of speaking or writing; yet, they teach nothing but mere fables and trifles with the allurements of words and ornate expressions. These people have not yet left their childish ways behind, nor do they understand their elders, but like children or young calves, if someone offers both an apple and gold, they disregard the gold, which is of the highest price and value, and prefer the apple or nut, which is the least. This is indeed the exchange of Achilles and Glaucus. For if someone were to discuss the secrets of Nature, they would surely respond like those licking the shell of a nut without tasting the sweetness of the marrow: with polished and armed words, either little or nothing relevant, as if babbling. Therefore, their words are in proportion to those who say, there is plenty of talk, but little wisdom: but indeed, if I am much worse than them, it is especially due to ignorance and also because of the barbarity of speech, which they call stammering or solecism: As much as they dared to contend with polished words about the shell, so much do I (although unadorned) delight in diligently inquiring into the sweet innermost part of that nut, they on the outside, I clearly perceive both the exterior and the interior. Therefore, my confidence is so great that these writings of ours would be imprinted in you, and you would accept my gift (although small) with a happy face: and you will love me in return (as you usually do). Farewell, from the royal library of Richemont. July 15, 1521.

Egidius De Vadis.