It is plain that many things in the first book[40] are mere lies, for proof mark this: it is said that it is translated, so it is, and where it is word for word: But I have talked with the man that first wrote them, having them from Wagner’s very friend, wherein he saith many things are corrupted, some added _de nouo_, some cancelled and taken away, and many were augmented. As for addition to the Copy is there where Mephostophiles disputeth of the numbers of Hells, and some other disputations: And let a man mark them duly, they shall find them I will not say childish, but certainly superficial, not like the talk of Devils, where with foldings of words they do use to dilate at large, the more subtle by far. But as for his Obligation[41] and the most part, it is certain they are most credible and out of all question. II For to take away a doubt, whether there were such a man, which is generally a thing not believed, I assure them this, that there was, and it is proved thus, nor is Germany so unknown but that the truth of these things following may be found if any suspect. III First there is yet remaining the ruins of his house, not far from Melanchthon’s house as they call at the town’s end of Wittenberg, right opposite to the Schools. IV Secondly, there is yet to be seen his tree, a great hollow Trunk, wherein he used to read Nigromancy to his scholars, not far from the Town in a very remote place, which I think is sufficient testimony to any reasonable ear. And enquire of them which have been there, see if they will not affirm it. Notwithstanding I do not go by these means, to entreat men to believe, for I care not whether they do or no, but only to certify you of the truth as I myself would be. V Next, his tomb is at Mars’ Temple, a three miles beyond the City, upon which is written on a Marble stone by his own hand, this Epitaph, which is somewhat old by reason of his small skill in graving. _Hic iaceo Johannes Faustus, Doctor diuini iuris indignissimus, qui pro amore magiae Diabolicae scientiae vanissime cecidi ab amore Dei: O Lector pro me miserrimo damnato homine ne preceris, nam preces non iuuant quem Deus condemnauit: O pie Christiane memento mei, & saltem vnam pro infiducia mea lachrymulam exprime, & cui non potes mederi, eius miserere, et ipse caue._ [Illustration: VIEW OF WITTENBERG ABOUT 1546 After a woodcut by Lucas Cranach the Elder] The Stone was found in his study, and his will was fulfilled, and he lieth betwixt a heap of three and thirty fir trees in the fort of the Hill in a great hole where this is erected. VI If these will not serve, then shall you hear the testimony of a learned man John Wierus, _cap. 4. libro I. de magis infamibus_.[42] Which I have translated.