Preface to arithmetic read by Georg Joachim Rheticus

I believe that in the beginning I need to expound to you the reason why I begin to teach publicly, so that no one thinks that I have come forth in this hall inconsiderately by my own decision. For I am rather shy by nature, and I cherish most those arts that love hiding-places and do not earn applause among the crowds; furthermore, I see not only what abundance of knowledge [i.e. of things to be known] there is, but also how much dexterity and fertility of intellect is needed, especially for treating of these subtle arts, and I am indeed conscious of my stupidity. Therefore I did not strive to be here, and for a long time I objected to our teachers who encouraged me to teach in public the precepts of the arts with which I have busied myself in an unremarkable way, in particular at this time, when the other lectures in mathematics have ceased by the death of that most learned man, Johannes Volmar. However, they entreated me to take into account, in this matter, not only my friendship for them but also the benefit for the young, as it is greatly profitable that these elements be assiduously inculcated and practised in the schools. Thus the teachers' authority prevailed, as well as their excellent disposition towards education.