Dantiscus would gladly have replied to the addressee’s verse epistle in an equally sophisticated literary form, but owing to his numerous duties he lacks the time, and the Muses favour those who have it. He regards both the addressee and his learned companions with a kindness free from envy. He also wishes that he may continue to derive joy from writing verse until late into his old age.

Dantiscus is constantly plagued by anxieties concerning both public and private matters. Whenever he finds a moment’s respite, his troubles quickly return, proving even more distressing than before.

Yet when the thought of the last things arises, the mind is freed from anxiety and suffering. This delight cannot endure, however, unless God is properly appeased. While he does not tolerate evil deeds, neither does he condemn the contrite; as a merciful Father, he forgives those transgressors who return to him.

This gives Dantiscus hope amidst the anxieties of life. He pays tribute to the style and erudition evident in the addressee’s verse, contrasting it with his own, less refined verses, which are written in the press of his duties. Finally, he wishes him the longest of lives.

Should the addressee find the hastily sent poem not to his liking, Dantiscus notes, he should attribute it to the author’s haste, as he is currently preparing to depart for the diet of Royal Prussia to attend to the affairs of the fatherland.