27  Just as those who prepare a feast also seek to be attentive to the will of others, for the sake of the gratitude of many, we willingly undertake the labor.

27  Even as it is no ease unto him that prepareth a banquet, and seeketh the benefit of others: yet for the pleasuring of many we will undertake gladly this great pains;

28  Indeed, leaving to the authors the truths about particular details, we instead have been devoted to this form, striving to be brief.

28  Leaving to the author the exact handling of every particular, and labouring to follow the rules of an abridgement.

29  For, just as the architect of a new house will have concern for the entire structure, and, in truth, he who takes care to paint it will seek out what is fitting to adorn it, so also should such things be considered by us.

29  For as the master builder of a new house must care for the whole building; but he that undertaketh to set it out, and paint it, must seek out fit things for the adorning thereof: even so I think it is with us.

30  Moreover, to collect knowledge, and to order words, and to discuss every particular point attentively, is the duty of the author of a history.

30  To stand upon every point, and go over things at large, and to be curious in particulars, belongeth to the first author of the story

31  Yet truly, to pursue brevity of speech, and to shun the extension of matters, is conceded to an abbreviator.

31  But to use brevity, and avoid much labouring of the work, is to be granted to him that will make an abridgment.

32  Therefore, here we will begin the narration. Let so much be sufficient to say in preface. For it is foolish to go on and on before the account, when the account itself is succinct.

32  Here then will we begin the story: only adding thus much to that which hath been said, that it is a foolish thing to make a long prologue, and to be short in the story itself.