A Mirror for Princes
written by de Andaribus, a pseudonym

Manuscript completed ca. 405, first mention in library catalog of Conlegium Minoris at Bethelion, 408, eleven complete copies known: Bethelion [2], Annalum, Antrum [2], Tres Regni, Isrillion, Ne Interire, Domus Octobris, Tempestatem Sedare. Antrum copies one a foot and half again by a foot with black soft-leather binding and black-and-red–letter; one a “hasty” copy on rag paper. —Multiple partial copies in private collections within and without the Order. After the straightforward recitatio of rego spells, the essay “de regendi” is most frequently excerpted, notably within the Libellus recordationium of Porphyrus (Minor). Opening “Speculum” most frequently excerpted without the Order, consists of matched narrative portraits; one on the left page, one on the right; one flattering, one critical; of sixteen famous leaders from the history of the Three Kingdoms. The portrait on the left page begins with a phrase which ends the portrait on the right page; homonyms, elisions, and other tricks are employed. “Ursula” has recently proposed that Speculum was written by Leana of House Savacion on the strength of a rather dubious allegorical reading that matches portraits with the Gentes of House Savacion. (When would she have had the time?) Reputation as a “puzzle book” keeps Speculum from joining Artificia videndi clari as a definitive essentialist text. Though speculation that properly reading certain clues in “Speculum” will unlock secret rego techniques hidden within the recitatio and “de regendi” is a popular pasttime with aficionados, rumors that a Concordans avibus-like document is being prepared remain just that. —notes compiled by Adrien filia Allisen of House Manere, Censor Antri