Those who seek the favor of powerful men usually offer them precious material gifts, but Machiavelli instead offers his precious knowledge of the conduct of great men. He aims to present this knowledge in a plain and direct style. He observes that as a person of low social rank, he has the best perspective on the actions of those who are high above him, just as princes have the best perspective on the actions of the people. He hopes that his gracious patron will pity his humble and unfortunate position.
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