Tartaglia wanted to argue publicly with Cardano to increase his position in the mathematical world and have a chance to get even. Cardan, knowledgeable in several areas of mathematics, knew that he would gain nothing from this and saw little need to respond to the humble mathematics teacher's attacks. Cardano's student, Ferrari, began the fight, exchanging letters back and forth with Tartaglia for some time, asking for a debate. Tartaglia eventually accepted after receiving the offer of a new position in Brescia and wanting to increase his chances of obtaining tenure. Although Tartaglia had debated more regularly, Ferrari understood both cubics and quartics better and was having more success. Tartaglia left the race early, effectively conceding to Ferrari and then also losing payment for his