TO HIS MOST ILLUSTRIOUS LORDSHIP

Such is the servitude and obligation, Most Illustrious Sir, which I hold for you that it would seem to me to be greatly neglecting my duty as a good servant and a loyal subjects, as I am to you, if with every effort and every power of mine, however small and weak, I did not try to demonstrate some sign of my service and devotion to you. Therefore, as these Madrigals of mine must needs be published, I wanted to them, even as they are unworthy of the esteemed judgment of your Illustrious Lordship, under your brightest name, it is truly prestigious, not only for the ancient nobility of your House, and of your illustrious and valorous predecessors, but because you moreover are gifted with remarkable talent and adorned with so many other rare virtues, that you are judged by all as a sanctuary of the Muses and a paragon of every valor: without your protection these efforts of mine, youthful (that they be), will be protected from the biting attacks of detractors. Thus, Your Lordship will be pleased, as I cannot gift to you anything equal to my obligation and desire, should you accept this small token, which are the first fruits cultivated in my small garden. In doing so, you will grant me the courage to ensure that in the future, you might savor from that more mature and pleasing fruits: and the world will know, how much I revere and desire to enjoy the many benefits and favors I have received from your boundless generosity. To which I reverently kiss your hands.

Your Illustrious Lordship’s

Devoted servant, Giaches de Wert