The zeal of our poet, however, surmounted all these obstacles, for he was indefatigable in collecting and copying many of the choicest manuscripts; and posterity is indebted to him for the possession of many valuable writings, which were in danger of being lost through the carelessness or ignorance of the possessors.
Petrarch could not but perceive the superiority of his own understanding and the brilliancy of his abilities.

The modest humility which knows not its own worth is not wont to show itself in minds much above mediocrity; and to elevated geniuses this virtue is a stranger.

Petrarch from his youthful age had an internal assurance that he should prove worthy of estimation and honours.

Nevertheless, as he advanced in the field of science, he saw the prospect increase, Alps over Alps, and seemed to be lost amidst the immensity of objects before him.

Hence the anticipation of immeasurable labours occasionally damped his application.