Copernicus to Bishop Dantiscus - translation
Frombork, 11 January 1539
To his Lordship, Most Reverend Father in Christ, Johannes [Dantiscus], by the grace of God bishop of Varmia, my most gracious lord
My lord, Most Reverend Father in Christ, most gracious lord:
I have now done what I should not or could not in any way have failed to do. I hope that what I have done in this matter quite accords with your Most Reverend Lordship's warnings. But you wish to find out from me how long my uncle lived - my uncle, the late Lucas Watzenrode of blessed memory, a predecessor of your .Most Reverend Lordship. He lived 64 years, 5 months; he was bishop for 23 years; he died on 30 March 1512 A.D. With him came to an end the family whose coat of arms is conspicuous at Toruń in their many works and in the ancient monuments. I now pledge my obedience to your Most Reverend Lordship.
Frombork, 11 January 1539
Your Most Reverend Lordship's
most obedient
Nicholas Copernicus
