Like you, I accepted the Copernican position several years ago. . . . I have written up many of my reasons and refutations on the subject, but I have not dared until now to bring them into the open, being warned by the fortunes of Copernicus himself, our master, who procured immortal fame . . . , only to be derided and dishonored. I would dare publish my thoughts if there were many like you; but, since there are not, I shall forebear. Why is Galileo reluctant to share his discoveries? He thinks his discoveries have come too late. He has been told by Copernicus to keep his ideas secret. He does not want to be mistreated like Copernicus was. He thinks enough other people share his beliefs.
