The massive bulk of the earth does indeed shrink to insignificance in comparison with the size of the heavens.

In the midst of all dwells the Sun. For who could set this luminary in another or better place in this most glorious temple, than whence he can at one and the same time brighten the whole.

At rest, however, in the middle of everything is the sun.

When, therefore, I had long considered this uncertainty of traditional mathematics, it began to weary me that no more definite explanation of the movement of the world-machine established in our behalf by the best and most systematic builder of all, existed among the philosophers who had studied so exactly in other respects the minutest details in regard to the sphere.

For it is the duty of an astronomer to compose the history of the celestial motions through careful and expert study.

Mathematics is written for mathematicians.

The strongest affection and utmost zeal should, I think, promote the studies concerned with the most beautiful objects, most deserving to be known.