T. C.

This is now – this was erst,

Proposition the first – and Problem the first.

I

On a given finite line

Which must no way incline;

To describe an equi –

– lateral Tri –

– A, N, G, E, L, E.

Now let A. B.

Be the given line

Which must no way incline;

The great Mathematician

10                      Makes this Requisition,

That we describe an Equi –

– lateral Tri –

– angle on it;

Aid us Reason – aid us Wit!

II

From the centre A. at the distance A. B.

Describe the circle B. C. D.

At the distance B. A. from B. the centre

The round A. C. E. to describe boldly venture.

(Third postulate see.)

20                                  And from the point C.

In which the circles make a pother

Cutting and slashing one another,

Bid the straight lines a journeying go.

C. A. C. B. those lines will show

To the points, which by A. B. are reckon’d,

And postulate the second

For Authority ye know.

    A. B. C.

Triumphant shall be

30                         An Equilateral Triangle,

Not Peter Pindar carp, nor Zoilus can wrangle.

III

Because the point A. is the centre

Of the circle B. C. D.

And because the point B. is the centre

Of the circular A. C. E.

A. C. to A. B.