. . . an ingenious gentleman, and of a merry disposition came in and surprised me. He asked me what I was so very intent and thoughtful upon? I was so free with him as not to mince the matter, but told him plainly I had been puzzling my brain for a preface to Don Quixote.

In this passage from Cervantes' "Don Quixote," Cervantes humorously reflects on the challenge of writing a preface. As he wrestles with the idea, an "ingenious gentleman, and of a merry disposition" interrupts his thoughts. Cervantes candidly admits to this visitor that he is struggling to compose the preamble for his novel. The phrase "not to mince the matter" reveals Cervantes' decision to speak plainly and honestly, eschewing the usual embellishments. This moment underscores the author's desire to break from tradition and inject authenticity into his work. By choosing not to "mince" his words, Cervantes sets the tone for a novel that aims to dismantle exaggerated tales of chivalry with wit and sincerity, creating a narrative that would capture the imagination of generations to come.