Preface
PREFACE Reading St. Augustine in Latin is a delightful task, not so much because of his grace of style as because of the majesty and rich nuance of the thoughts which he expresses in that language. If one is captivated by this aspect of his writings, then translating St. Augustine into some other language is an even more delightful task, because the translator must of necessity savor every word and phrase of the Latin Augustine before attempting to turn them into his own language. However, this is at the same time a difficult task, and a translator must often seek out others for advice in handling the myriad problems which any serious translation effort poses. In this regard, I am deeply grateful to E.A. Synan of the Pontifical Institute of Mediaeval Studies for many hours of his time. His assistance has been invaluable to me in all phases of this translation effort. I am also indebted to my colleague, Paul W. Gooch, of Scarborough College, the University of Toronto, who has read and commented on many things in the introduction, translation, and notes. However, the hardest work of all has been done by the editorial director and staff of the Fathers ofthe Church series. I owe a special word of thanks to the late Bernard M. Peebles, to Hermigild Dressler, O.F.M., and to the others who have worked diligently with them to try to remove the blemishes from my translation effort. However, for the blemishes that remain I take full responsibility. Some financial support for this project came from the University of Toronto. I am grateful for summer grants in 1969 and 1970 which enabled me to indulge my interest in St. Augustine without at the same time having to work for a living. Finally, my deep-felt thanks go to my understanding wife, Mary Elizabeth, who has suffered patiently St. Augustine's frequent intrusions into an otherwise happy marriage. XVll ...
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