Axiochus (Spenser) (Modernized)

by Plato

Axiochus

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.

A most excellent Dialogue,
written in Greek by Plato the Philosopher:
concerning the shortness and unctertainty

of this life, with the contrary ends

of the good and wicked.

(.)

Translated out of Greek by

Edw. Spenser.

Hereto is annexed a sweet speech or Oration,
spoken at the Triumph at White-hall before her

Majesty, by the Page to the right noble Earl

of Oxenforde.

AT LONDON,
Printed for Cuthbert Burbie, and are
to be sold at the middle shop in the Poultry,
under S. Mildreds Church.
Anno. 1592

[Modernized]]
To the Right Worshipful
Master Benedic Barnam, Esquire, Alderman and Sheriffe of this honorable City of
London: health and happiness.
(. .)

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

concerning 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.

To the Reader.

THis Dialogue of Axiochus, gentle Reader, was translated out of Greek, by that worthy Scholar and Poet, Master Edward Spenser, whose studies have & do carry no mean commendation, because their deserts are of so great esteem.

If herein thou find not the delightful pleasures his verses yieldeth, yet shalt thou receive matter of as high contentment: to wit, comfort in the very latest extremity. For his sake then be kind in acceptance hereof, and do him the right be very well deserveth.