The text is a dedication where the author expresses respect and admiration for a person of great wisdom and knowledge. The author humbly acknowledges their own limitations and hopes that their work has met the approval of the honored recipient. They express a desire to prove their loyalty with future opportunities.
Dedication
Diligence, truly in a man of no small wisdom, knowledge, and respect, is a most commendable matter for all who are of good understanding to maintain. And this is also your fame, yes, this is your noble crown. But looking upon myself or my work, you know, My Lord, that it is difficult for one who is not entirely free from the concerns of this life to bring something that adds to the praise of the past age, much less deserve to stand in a line of the following ones. However, let it be as it may, I will trouble myself little, if only with the dedication of this book I have met Your Honor's approval. And if I may carry glory in my remaining lifetime on it, I have constant opportunity to prove with a generous and humble heart that I am
Noble profoundly respected Lord
Your most obliged servant,
W. GOEREE.