Proinde quoniam'ut Mantuanus vates praedixit excelsus'maius opus moveo maiorque mihi rerum nascitur ordo, Galliarum tractus et situm ostendere puto nunc tempestivum, ne inter procinctus ardentes, proeliorumque varios casus, ignota quibusdam expediens imitari videar desides nauticos, attrita lintea cum rudentibus, quae licuit parari securius, inter fluctus resarcire coactos et tempestates.
Now, because I am undertaking a greater work, with a greater number of events unfolding before me, I believe it is an appropriate moment to describe the regions and location of the Gauls. This is to prevent any confusion that may arise amidst the violent battles and changing fortunes of war, in which I may appear to discuss subjects unknown to some, and consequently resemble lazy sailors who, amidst the rough seas and storms, are obliged to repair their tattered sails and rigging that could have been mended with less danger.