Macropedius to Mossellano.
A fourme of an Epistle called, Conciliatorie, wherein he craueth ac∣quaintaunce with one whome he neuer knewe, but by report: it consisteth of three special members. In the first is conteyned an enumeration or rehearsal of his vertues to whom he writeth &c. In the seconde is conteined his petition, wherein he craueth ac∣quaintance. &c. In the thirde, is conteined certaine circumstan∣ces touching his owne person, which tend to his purpose, al which are mencioned in such order, as arrogancie is auoyded.
I Can not tell (syr) how it commeth to passe, that men excel∣ling in vertue, in wisedome, and in learning, drawe (as it were) diuers into an admiration of them selues, and are so déepely planted in the fauour of some, that they will neuer be in quiet, till they haue taken vp a lodging, lying somwhat neare them, notwithstanding the distaunce of place is verie great, whereby they are seperated. I receiued your exerci∣ses, your verses I examined, and surely (I speake without flatterie, I would not haue you otherwise to thinke) I haue not read any thing wherin more learning is shewed, or more •…•…loquence vsed. I haue heard great report of your myldenes, of your modestie, of your gentlenesse, of your honestie, final∣ly of other the excellent ornaments, and ines•…•…imable iuels of your mynde, in so muche that I can not, but (as it were) of∣fer my selfe impudently and without shame, to your ac∣quaintaunce and friendship, of a méere voluntarie motion. I craue thus much therefore at your handes, that it woulde please you to admit me (thoughe an vnprofitable friende, though vnlearned and ignoraunt, though a stranger to you, and vnknowne) into the number of your friendes, and to en∣ter my name into the register of your acquaintaunce, that I may not be destitute of one, so long as I haue you, with whome I may vse familiar conference, and reason pleasant∣ly.