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1. I Am ashamed of this age of ours, wherein this custom is grown into use, that if any ordinary fellow, or one that is but half a scholar, hath after a grosse manner (as they say) ra∣ther patched together, than handsomely made a piece of work,
we presently think it fitting to be committed to mens censures, that are ready to carp at every thing, and such as every body will desire to read and to buy.
2. As though we had not had triall, that nothing is so well done, but it is sometimes dasht out with the reader's sharp nails, and black-lead pens.
3. But some ask, to what end do you speak these words?
4. You perswaded me a few days ago, that I would take or∣der to print some frivolous toys, which I had made when my studie was interrupted for the most part: besides, you seemed to blame my folly, because I had forborn so long to do this.
5. Truly you are far out of the way, who dost not consider Ho∣race's advice, who adviseth, That an edition should not be hastned too fast, but be nine years before it be printed.
6. Do you not see, that many very eloquent men have abidden the Censor's sponges, that wipe out things?
7. If therefore I should examine these first fruits of my labour, what would you say would come thereof, seeing I have writ no∣thing worth setting out; nothing, which may not rather incline the squeasie stomack of the reader to sleep, than force it to read more.
8. Whatsoever I have, I am beholden to my parents for it; yet I will strive rather to consult for my own credit, than to yield rashly to their unwary judgments.