Copernicus

Though the servant lived with Copernicus in his 'curia' he probably did not know his master intimately. Not because the doctor treated his help indifferently, but because he was known to be quiet, introspective man. No one really knew Copernicus that well. The most reputable reference to Copernicus's personality comes from a letter written a dozen years later, when Copernicus was on his deathbed, from his best friend. Tiedemann Giese, who from a distance was trying to ensure that someone would stand by Copernicus's side and comfort him: "Just as he loved privacy while his constitution was sound, so, I think now that he is sick, there are few friends who are affected by his condition." Giese was deeply worried that Copernicus would die alone. ~ Page 75