I.

Who shall take thee, the new, the dainty volume, Purfled glossily, fresh with ashy pumice?

You, Cornelius; you of old did hold them Something worthy, the petty witty nothings,

While you venture, alone of all Italians, 5 Time's vast chronicle in three books to circle, Jove! how arduous, how divinely learned!

Therefore welcome it, yours the little outcast, This slight volume. O yet, supreme awarder, Virgin, save it in ages on for ever. 10