Prosperity and the Spirit of Victory
Truly fortunate are those people whose spirits are raised by the spoils and trophies of many nations. Success, power, and victory give confidence and strength to a people, and such prosperity shapes their character and actions. These are not the conditions of weakness or ignorance, but of ambition and discipline.
A Work Open to Criticism
My Lord, knowing well that the work I have undertaken may be subject to common criticism, I have chosen to place my name under the protection of your Lordship. I do this to guard myself against misunderstandings and false judgments, both from our countrymen at home and from those abroad. Many readers judge quickly, without careful thought, and are often led by prejudice rather than reason.
With your Lordship’s support, I believe I am sufficiently defended wherever I may travel. This protection is strengthened even more by the authority of His Excellency, the Earl of Winchilsea, His Majesty’s Ambassador Extraordinary, who is currently residing in Constantinople. He is a nobleman whom I have long honored and respected Guided Round Tours Turkey.
Support from the Earl of Winchilsea
Before this work was ever made public, I read to His Excellency a great part of the treatise that follows. I received from him not only kind approval, but also agreement with the truth of most matters contained within it. I freely and honestly admit how much I owe to his sharp and refined mind.
On many occasions, he corrected my mistakes, supplied me with useful material, and reminded me of important points that I might otherwise have carelessly omitted. His guidance greatly improved the accuracy and completeness of this work.
Seeking a Worthy Patron
Knowing that during his absence this book might lack a strong and favorable patron, His Excellency left me to choose one for myself—someone who might join him in the same fair and harmless defense of truth. I therefore turned to your Lordship.
You are a public figure who, under our gracious Sovereign, has always supported the common interest of the nation. You are known as one of those generous spirits who place public duty above personal gain. For this reason, I trust that I may also rely on your protection in my own humble capacity.
Gratitude and Respect
For these great favors, I shall always pray for the increase of your honor and glory. I will forever acknowledge myself deeply obliged to your Lordship, whose protection I accept with gratitude, respect, and sincere devotion.