Translation:The Three Princes of Serendip/Foreword
FOREWORD
ALWAYS BE PRAISED Our Lord, creator of seven Heavens, of four elements, and of every other thing, which on earth is seen, Creator of man, who is superior to all other animals, to whom not only intellect was given to contemplate His Divinity, but also language, with which he is able to express gratitude for having received this benefit.
I, Cristoforo Armeno, a poor sinner from the city of Tauris in my country, heard many times from various people that in parts of Francia there were a large number of noble men, who were gifted with great intellect which could easily be seen from the beautiful, and wonderful things, found near where they lived. So one can easily understand that I greatly desired to see this country, the inhabitants of which were mostly Christian, so I could learn the rites and principles of the religion of Jesus, which I greatly desired to do, being a Christian myself. Therefore, with God's help I made my way towards Francia and the first place I reached was the city of Venice. Because in the whole world no other city like it is found, it is believed that it could only have been made by the hand of the Lord. It is located on the sea, and you can go everywhere by land and waterways by means of uncovered boats, called gondolas, that take you wherever you want to go. The palaces and residences usually have two entrances, one overlooking the water, where all the things the family needs arrive by boat, the other is on the street, where everyone enters and goes as they please. In this city no other animals can be seen, except for very beautiful and well-proportioned men and women, while in our own cities we are constantly annoyed by wandering donkeys and camels. The streets are very clean and paved and you can see many churches and beautiful palaces of great value. There are also many hospitals with separate quarters for women and men. They are all admirably taken care of and are dressed in white. And their doctors, who continually take care of the sick, are being provided with everything. Here, justice is excellent, everyone behaves well so that no one suffers abuse, and each one strives as much as he can to follow the commandment of God. Life is under the law and those who administer justice are men of much knowledge and gifted with great kindness. Besides, there are many dwellings where poor foreigners are accommodated free of charge. I can attest to this faithfully, for over a three-year period I have continuously resided in a room that suits me without having to pay anything. I don't remember ever having seen a city more lenient or more compassionate to the poor. As I love the beautiful customs and rituals, I have completely forgotten my own country, and if sometimes the idea of returning there crosses my mind, it seems that my nature immediately dissuades me. Having known here very learned men in every profession, and for the many courtesies I have received in their city, I wanted for their entertainment and with the help of a very dear friend of mine to translate from my own language into Italian a peregrination of three young sons of the King of Serendip. I believe, that because of its beauty, many readers will be delighted by it, and I hope they will be grateful and acquire it.