Axiochus (Spenser) (Modernized)

Orshipful Sir, I am bold (by way of dedication) to give ye this excellent Dialogue of Plato the Philosopher, for two reasons. The first, that so singular a work, done by a Heathen man, might as well florish in our vulgar speech, as of long time it hath done both in Greek and Latin.

The second, that your countenance might shaddow it from reproachfull slaunders, which common censures too lightly bolt out against the best endevours. But

the special matter to wit, my presumption, without first acquainting ye here-with: thus I protećt my self. My familiarity with ye in your younger years, when sometimes we were Scholars together, and my present joy, to see ye so happy a succeeder both in your Fathers virtues, place, and Office: emboldened me to shew a remembrance of the one, yet reverently, and gladness of the other as well becommeth me.

If in this small gift, ye make acceptance both of the one and other, ye shall declare no less then each one well discerns in ye and joy him that every way is at your command.

Axiochus, Edward Spenser,