Usbek [1] to his friend Rustan in Isfahan [2]

We spent but one day at Com. [3] Once we had performed our devotions on the tomb of the virgin who gave birth to twelve prophets, [4] we set forth again, and yesterday, the twenty-fifth day from our departure from Isfahan, we arrived in Tauris. [5]
Rica and I may be the first Persians who ever left their country for desire of learning, and gave up the ease of a tranquil life to undertake an arduous pursuit of wisdom. [6]
We were born in a flourishing kingdom, but we have not believed that its frontiers were those of our knowledge, and that oriental light alone should light our way.
Tell me what people are saying about our journey. Do not flatter me : I do not expect very many will approve. Send your letter to Erzeron, where I will stay for some while. Adieu, my dear Rustan, be sure that wherever on earth I may be, you have a faithful friend.

Tauris this 15^th day of the moon of Saphar 1711