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Axiochus
written in Greeke by Plato the Phylosopher:
concerning the shortnesse and vnctertainty
of this life, with the contrary ends
of the good and wicked.
(.)
Translated out of Greeke by
Edw. Spenser.
Heereto is annexed a sweet speech or Oration,
spoken at the Tryumphe at White-hall before her
Maiestie, by the Page to the right noble Earle
of Oxenforde.
AT LONDON,
Printed for Cuthbert Burbie, and are
to be sold at the middle shop in the Poultry,
vnder S. Mildreds Church.
Anno. 1592
To the Right Worshipfull
Maister Benedic Barnam, Esquire, Alderman and Sheriffe of this honorable Citty of
London: health and happinesse.
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Orshipfull Sir, I am bold (by way of dedication) to giue yee this excellent Dialogue of Plato the Phylosopher, for two reasons. The first, that so singular a worke, doone by a Heathen man, might as wel florish in our vulgare speech, as of long time it hath doone both in Greeke and Latine.
The seconde, that your countenance might shaddowe it from reprochefull slaunders, which common censures too lightly bolt out against the best endeuours. But concerning the speciall matter to wit, my presumption, without first acquainting yee heere-with: thus I protećt my selfe. My familiarity with yee in your younger yeeres, when sometimes wee were Schollers together, and my present ioy, to see ye so happie a succeeder both in your Fathers vertues, place, and Office: imboldened mee to shew a remembrance of the one, yet reuerently, and gladnes of the other as well becommeth me.
If in thys small gift, ye make acceptance both of the one and other, yee shall declare no lesse then each one well discernes in ye and ioy him that euery way is at your command.
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To the Reader.
THis Dialogue of Axiochus, gentle Reader, was translated out of Greeke, by that worthy Scholler and Poet, Maister Edward Spenser, whose studies haue & doe carry no mean commendation, because their deserts are of so great esteeme.
If herein thou find not the delightfull pleasures his verses yeeldeth, yet shalt thou receiue matter of as high contentment: to wit, comfort in the verie latest extremitie. For his sake then be kind in acceptance hereof, and doe him the right be very well deserueth.