But by occasion hereof, many other aduentures are intermedled, but rather as Accidents, then intendments. As the loue of Britomart, the ouerthrow of Marinell, the misery of Florimell, the vertuousnes of Belphœbe, the lasciuiousnes of Hellenora, and many the like.
Thus much Sir, I haue briefly ouerronne to direct your understanding to the wel-head of the History, that from thence gathering the whole intention of the conceit, ye may as in a handfull gripe al the discourse, which otherwise may happily seeme tedious and confused. So humbly crauing the continuaunce of your honorable fauour towards me, and th’ eternall establishment of your happines, I humbly take leaue.
23. Ianuary. 1589.
Yours most humbly affectionate.
Ed. Spenser.
FOOTNOTES:
[635] A Letter, &c.] Om. 1596 Bodl.
[636] l. 16 by accidents 1590
[637] l. 16 ezpresse 1590
[638] l. 43 through 1590