As there is a great variety in the inclinations of men in general,
so it is particularly remarkable in those who addict themselves to
the studies of nature and human literature: for some with great
eagerness inquire into the operations of nature; and the natural
causes of things: some endeavour to dig up antiquities from the dark,
by searching out the signification of statues, the inscriptions of
antique stones, and old and almost worn out medals; and others peruse
with unwearied diligence, the histories both of modern and ancient
times; and not without good cause; for history is not unjustly called
the looking-glass of human life; not only because it showeth unto us
matters of fact, which are either commendable or reproveable, and we
behold therein that which is past, as if it were present; but also
because from things which have already happened we may learn what is
best for us to do, and what we ought to avoid. And, therefore, great
benefit may be reaped from the reading of histories, besides the
pleasure which the variety of transactions affords to our senses, when
matters are accompanied with singular circumstances, and unexpected
events.
Now, since the reading of historical treatises was one of the most
pleasant diversions of my youth, this drew me when I attained to some
maturity of age, to inquire after many things that had happened in thy
kingdoms and dominions, which by many were almost forgotten. And having
gathered great store of very remarkable cases, which I thought worthy
to be kept upon record, and not buried in oblivion, I was induced to
compose an history, which contains such rare occurrences, and unusual
matters as I believe are not easily paralleled.
And after a long and difficult labour, having at length finished the
work, so far as to expose it to public view; and then thinking to whom
I should dedicate it, it presently came into my mind, that this could
not be done more suitably to any, than to the king of these countries,
which are the chief theatre of this history; and the rather, because
therein is described the rise of a people, who are no small part of
his faithful subjects, (for so I may safely call them,) since they
never, how much soever wronged and oppressed, offered any resistance
to the government; and when for conscience-sake they could not comply
with what was required of them, by patient suffering they showed their
subjection and obedience to the higher power. Nay, when opportunity
was offered to revenge themselves of their enemies, even then they
would not, but left it to the Lord: and thus at all times they behaved
themselves like a peaceable people.
And since I have also had occasion in this history to mention some
illustrious branches of thy royal family, to whom could I with more
justice offer this work, than to thee, O King of Great Britain,
who, having already made thyself gloriously renowned by thy eminent
clemency, bestowed even upon such who by their unnatural rebellion had
forfeited it, didst rather choose to establish thy throne thereby,
than by severity, and thus effectually to observe this lesson of the
wisest of kings, “Mercy and truth preserve the king, and his throne is
upholden by mercy.”
All this hath emboldened me, great king, to dedicate this work to thee,
with due regard, and in a way of humble address to approach thy royal
presence. Be pleased, therefore, according to thy wonted goodness to
excuse this modest freedom; and to know, that though it be offered by
a foreigner, yet it proceeds from him who heartily wisheth that God
may vouchsafe thee long to reign in peace and tranquillity over thy
subjects; and when removed hence from an earthly and perishing diadem,
to grant thee an heavenly and incorruptible crown of glory: which is
the unfeigned desire of,
Great and mighty Prince,
Thy affectionate and sincere well-wisher,