Erasmus writes to Cornelius Gerard, praising his virtues and specifically requesting that Gerard dedicate his major poetic work, the Mariad, to Erasmus. He expresses his strong admiration for the work and promises to defend and promote it vigorously, while also asking Gerard to send him portions to read.
I can easily guess, my dear Cornelius, such is your modesty, that you are somewhat vexed when I recount your virtues. But indeed, you may be angry as you please; nevertheless, I shall never be able to refrain from proclaiming your praises. Moreover, that distinguished and immortal work of your Mariad, which you have in hand, I earnestly and urgently entreat you—for I choose to be bold—that you would be willing to dedicate it especially to my name, since in the duty of loving I yield to no one. I have indeed resolved to guard, cherish, and adorn that work of yours so diligently—not to say as my own (for that I seem to do with too little care for myself)—but as no one ever more zealously defended his own. Only see that you send it to us for writing, as you promised in person when we were reading it together. Farewell.