#1846-To Elector Johann of Saxony

G.und F. (Grace and peace) in Christ. Most illustrious,high-born Prince, most gracious Lord! Although it would not be necessary to trouble ECFG with this writing: because the poor pastors are almost begging me and think that through me their supplication would be made more believeable and find more acceptance, I did not now how to refuse them. ECFG can easily from their supplication perceive how equally with the peasants they are required to work on the dam. Now ECFG knows well how great the poverty is. So also the parish-properties are not their own to inherit as the peasants properties and they have as virtual slaves barely gotten their bread thereby and might today or tomorrow let the same lay and go away empty-hnaded. Should now their daily bread, which they barely have, also equally like the land-properties be also under a burden, the greater portion of the pastors must leave as they cannot endure it and this is right because these who wait on souls should not be taken over as common servants. The pastors are already in great need so it is not necessary to burden them further so to terrify them and it has not previously been the custom and they are poorer than before now without in addition the wife and children becoming true beggars. ECFG will know well how graciously to proceed herein. Herewith be to God commended, Amen. On the Tuesday after St. Francis (10 Oct.)ECFG's obedient Martinus Luther.