1.
I have plans for bridges, very light and strong and suitable
for carrying very easily...
2.
When a place is besieged I know how to cut off water from the
trenches, and how to construct an infinite number of...scaling
ladders and other instruments...
3.
If because of the height of the embankment, and the strength
of the place of its site, it should be impossible to reduce
it by bombardment, I know methods of destroying any citadel
or fortress, even if it is built on rock.
4.
I have plans for making cannon, very convenient and easy of
transport, with which to hurl small stones in the manner almost
of hail...
5.
And it is should happen that the engagement is at sea, I have
plans for construction many engines most suitable for attack
or defense, and ships which can resist the fire of all the heaviest
cannon, and powder and smoke.
6.
Also I have ways of arriving at a certain fixed spot by caverns
and secret winding passages made without any noise even though
it may be necessary to pass underneath...a river.
7.
Also I can make covered cards, safe and unassailable, which
will enter the serried ranks of the enemy with artillery, and
there is no company of men at arms so great as not to be broken
by it. And behind these the infantry will be able to follow
quite unharmed and without any opposition.
8.
Also, if need shall arise, I can make cannon, mortars and light
ordnance, of very beautiful and useful shapes, quite different
from those in common use.
9.
Where it is not possible to employ cannon, I can supply catapults,
mangonels, traps and other engines of wonderful efficacy not
in general issue. In short, as the variety of circumstances
shall necessitate, I can supply an infinite number of different
engines of attack and defense.
10.
In time of peace I believe that I can give you as complete satisfaction
as anyone else in architecture, in the construction of buildings
both public and private, and in conducting water from one place
to another.
11.
Also IO can execute sculpture in marble, bronze, or clay and
also painting, in which my work will stand comparison with that
of anyone else whoever he may be.
12.
Moreover, I would undertake the work of the bronze horse, which
shall endure with immortal glory and eternal honor the auspicious
memory of the Prince of your father and of the illustrious house
of Sforza.