Page:Pliny's Natural History Book 1.djvu/21

 THE FIRST BOOK OF THE NATURAL HISTORY BY C. PLINIUS SECUNDUS.

HESE Books, containing the History of Nature, which a few days since I brought to Light (a new work among the Romans, your Citizens), I purpose by this Epistle of mine to present and consecrate unto you, most gentle Prince (for this Title accordeth fittest unto you, seeing that the Name of [Most mighty] sorteth well with the Age of your Father:) which haply might seem boldness and presumption in me, but that I know how at other Times you were wont to have some good Opinion of my light Matters. Where, by the Way, you must give me Leave to soften a little the Verses which