to Johann Forster in Augsburg

To the worthy and blessed man, Herr M.Joh.Forster, the faithful and clear servant of the church in Augsburg, his very dear brother in Christ.
Grace and peace in the LOrd! My little Margareta (Marussula) thanks you for your present, my dear Forster. I am surprised that you write that Musculus has so spoken that the Magistrate should be stirred up against the main (church-Stiftsherren) leaders while the opposition among us is surely concluded and accepting. However, you may determine and watch whether they want to continue or not; then we will open the entire Council with complaints. Meanwhile it is sufficient that they know that here the opposition party has concluded that they here have stood against and contradicted our opinion (although it is not true). Thereby they will finally be demonstrated to be a people who want division and a hypocritical union. For the rest it is our opinion that what was dealt with here should be kept secret but rather we have requested that it should be reported to all the churches,pastors and authorities so that the opinion of all might be heard and announce the same and only until the opinion of all has been made on the concluded Concord should it be published by the printer lest that before the victory an untimely triumph is sung and many might cry out that everything has been done without their knowledge and in a corner. Thus I await the consent of all will be written and sent to us as you and your authority has sent yours to us so that with public consent a public harmony will ensue and be openly published.

Recently a woman in Magdeburg has instigated a disturbance with Herr Nicolaus Amsdorf so that he has very little hope of establishing harmony. I believe that you know the little woman (Weiblein),namely the wife of Doctor Cubito, "the Hummelsheimin von Leipzig" (the bumblebee of Leipzig?).She has related to Amsdorf many and great things of your "Master Michel" against us and our opinion etc."It doesn't make for good blood if she will not cease". I am yet bearing everything with patience and have also not made it known to your Council until the outcry becomes greater. Be it well with you in the LOrd and pray for me. My Kaethe greets you and all of yours. The 7th of August 1536. Your Martin Luther.

NOTE: Michel is Michel Keller a Zwinglian-evidently from Augsburg.Looks like the wife of Doctor Cubito (Curio) was the widow of the Bartel of Hummelshain a little town with a castle. Maybe this is where they make the Hummel figurines?

#2269-To the Council at Augsburg

To the honorable and discreet Lords, the Mayor and Councelors of the city of Augsburg, my gracious Lords and Friends.

G.u.peace in Christ. Honorable,discerning, dear Lords and Friends! I have received your writing along with that of your preachers and with joy understood that the pending Concord pleases and want to announce the same to my most gracious Lord and others and that they will also, as God wills, be pleased thereby. Your F.(you discerning ones) will stay with it and proceed until it finally comes to a conclusion and meanwhile help so that with the people in time and with reasoned instruction the truth will prevail and where there is yet error and misunderstanding in someone's heart it will be dispelled. Herewith be commended to God, Amen. Martinus Luther.

#2268-To the Preachers in Augsburg

To the,in christ, highly-honorable men, the leaders and shepherds of the church in Augsburg, his sincerely loved brothers.

Grace and peace in Christ. In Christ,highly-revered men! I have received your letter with joy and thank God the LOrd that you have unanimously assented to the Concord. Christ grant that as you continue that we may increase with you in sincere love. And I hope that through you these our dealings will be made known to all pastors as much as you can so that all will be strengthened by this peace unanimously agreed to. Therefore we request that you with us will take care that the people also will know the clear opinion and finally this harmony will be complete and all considerations and doubts of conscience will cease. I will announce your agreement to all of ours and they will rejoice with us and that they will more easily that this will be a sincere accord after all offense has been removed. The LOrd direct our hearts in the love and patience of Christ, Amen. Given on the 7th of August 1536. Your Martin Luther.

#2266-to Hieronymus Weller

My dear Herr Doctor! With joy I have heard and read that you finally have become a man and you have taken control of the unbridled flesh. Thus, what is a man without a she-man (Mannin)as Moses says or what is a she-man without a man mainly when you behold the first marriage? So both cannot know their generation so long as they remain alone. This manner of life has been created by God and up to now has supported it against all heresies and the devil,yes, against all the excesses, the complaints and impatience of men. May Christ now bless you and your wife and grant that you lovingly and in love always dwell with one another,Amen.

In reference to your marriage I am completely in accord with your intention since you know the unreliability of our market and all that we daily endure so that neither I nor Kaethe can hold the hope that we can honorably feed such a great group as should be done. And I do not want to bring such a disgrace upon us and you. To me it seems advisable that you celebrate the marriage in Freiburg or if that cannot happen that after you have a brilliant departure meal of several tables that you come here with a lesser contingent as did Kreuziger, Doctor Brueck and others and have a meal or breakfast of two or three tables set. I want you and your friends to consider this. As much as I can I will assist you and yours to have something tasty and be of service and you know what is ready for you."Our market is muddy and should the house be invited, the university with children and relatives and in addition which cannot be left out on my behalf that leaves neither 9 nor 12 tables." You know at your doctorate (meal) the matter was limited with wives and children absent and only the men invited there were 7 or 8 tables. What will it be if all these people,wives, children and colleagues also are to be nourished and fed? I am writing this that you might be suspicious that I want to get out of the work but so that you and your friends should think about and determine also what you should do. Be it well with you in Christ and greet your bride in my name and all of yours. Wittenberg on the 5th day of August Anno 1536.
NoTE: ML never went to Freiburg but had numerous contacts there and especially with the Weller family. Jerry stayed at the Black Cloister with the Luthers for several years.
Weller married Anna von Steige who was a ward of his brother-in-law Georg von Lisskirchen i.e. - the husband of Weller's sister who at times consulted Luther about personal doubts or conflicts.
ML in Mann and Manin is evidently playing ish(man) and ishah(woman) of the Genesis creation account.

Frankfurt a.O.

#2265-To Andreas Ebert a.O.

(Replying to #2264)

To the highly-honorable man, Herr Andreas Ebert, preacher in Frankfurt on the Oder, in the LOrd his very beloved brother.
Grace and peace in Christ! To many what you write is unbelievable,my dear Andreas,and before you wrote I also thought, as it was told here, that I was hearing a joke or a fable. However, if the matter stands,as you write,I hold that it is a sign,permitted by God, that Satan is a figure of certain Princes who rob and devour but accomplish nothing. This is a jokeful spirit and in his leisure ridicules our confidence so we must first of all earnestly pray for the young girl who must suffer such things for our sake. So also must this spirit in return be despised and ridiculed but not with any sort of cursing or by any earnest things attacked becasue he despises everything in devilish pride. We must prevail in prayer for the maiden and with contempt for the devil and finally, as Christ grants grace, he will cease. It would also be good if the Prince would lessen your burden which is indicated through this sign and by which this malicious spirit, as he here illustrates, confidently and powerfully rules. I request, yes, that you make this public as a worthy matter and you investigate everything certainly so there is not a deception perpetrated here and whether the money pieces or coins which the young girl seizes are those used in the markets. I have been driven about with so many false pretenses,deception,intrigue,lies,artistry etc. previously that it is necessary to proceed not believing everything that everyone except such that I know they do and say.So great is the power of the devil, the evil of the world, the impudence of men today so therfore take great caution that you are not deceived and I also deceived with you. Eperto crede Ruperto (test out the credibility of the rumor?)as the proverb says. Be it well with you in the LOrd and pray for me. Wittenberg on the August 5,1536.

NOTE: Any Latin experts on "Experto crede Ruperto"? I'm wondering in the absence of a
signature here and the address D."N" in the previous letter whether there is any suspicion that it was directed to ML and this is his reply. Not really, I guess.

Thaler Compared to US quater

Joachimsthaler

[edit] The Joachimsthaler
By 1518 guldiners were popping up everywhere in central Europe. In Bohemia, a part of the Holy Roman Empire then controlled by the Jagellonian monarchs, a guldiner was minted—of similar physical size but slightly less fineness—that was named the Joachimsthaler from the silver mined by the Counts of Schlick at a rich source near Joachimsthal (St. Joachim's Valley, Czech: Jáchymov) (now in the Czech Republic) where Thal (Tal) means "valley" in German. Joachim, the father of the Virgin Mary, was portrayed on the coin. Similar coins began to be minted in neighbouring valleys rich in silver deposits, each named after the particular 'thal' or valley from which the silver was extracted. There were soon so many of them that these silver coins began to be known more widely as 'thaler'. From these earliest 'thalaer' developed the new Thaler - the coin that Europe had been looking for to create a standard for commerce.

#2264-Andreas Ebert to Luther

To the very blessed and faithful D.N.,his above all other highly Lords and Teachers.

Heil in Christ! I am ashamed,worthy Lord,that I should trouble you further when you are overwhelmed and buzy with an abundance of projects by burdening and appealing to you with my writing but yet responsibility toward God and the neighbor forces me whether I want to or not and very much spurs me on so much that I must come to others for strength and help. However, because I know that I do not have enough expertise on this case I am very desirous of your counsel although I am not worthy above other blessed ones. However, so that you, worthy teacher, may accurately know the case I want to briefly write about it entirely. There is by us a young girl about sixteen years of age possessed by the devil in such a manner as I have never known an example of nor read nor heard of. At a certain hour she becomes siezed by a rage of Satam in such a way that pennies, Groschen, and other German coins she scrambles for sometimes from a garment,or from the beards of those standing by, or from a table;in short, from any place she scrambles for it and if someone does not suddenly sieze her hand she sticks whatever sort of the grasped money in the mouth and clenches (zerkaut?) that brought in with her teeth and shows the same on the front part of her tongue which she is accustomed to stick out. At night she makes a great noise as she shakes a great amount (Schatz) in her hands, which she also attempts to devour so that the danger of suffocation is feared; one believes they are Joachimthaler coins. However, what she sees, everything she talks about is either money or a mouse (mus[sic]),and often she lets the treasure strike a sound as though it were great riches. A certain mass-father wanted to cure her. He was summoned here highly recommended from a little town nearby but he brought with him nothing other than consecrated herbs,waters and roots (radishes?)and if I am not mistaken,for six days swore vehemently and finally with threats; then he finally was disillusioned in his hope and went away. Meanwhile, in my responsibility, I admonished the people in every sermon that I would not let up or cease to plead with God so long as I can pray
as I conscientously have done previously.Howeever, she persists in the grasping of little coins, yes, she wishes to destroy herself with a rope,knife or water if her guards do not carefully protect her; so despairing Satan makes her with his fright.Therefore I go to you for counsel on how to deal with this rare and dangerous
matter and plead for the sake of the love of Christ to provide us with help in this case. You know the art and weapons of this opponent and you also know how he finally at last can be driven out. If you cannot because of many projects do so ,order it for someone else to do. And if there is someone who can free her by his prayers, the citizens who have love for blessedness and therefore, would have concern that the same would be brought here at their expense. If this should happen then the Almighty God, first of all, and all who hold to the Christian religion would be done a very acceptable service. Be it right well with you and think on the young girl possessed by the devil. In Frankfurt on the Oder,Andr.Ebert,Ecclesiastic in Frankfurt.

NOTE: The N.in the salutation stands for ML as the following letter shows.
"Coins in the beards"? Am I missing something. I'll try to post a picture of the great Joachimthaler.

#2263-To Dorothea Joerger, widow in Keppach

The very-honorable, nobel Frau,Dorothea Joerger,widow in Keppach, my favored Frau and good Friend.

Grace and peace in Christ. Richly-honorable,dear Frau! Andres Hechel has spoken with me how your will, an established testament, benefits your daughter; however the sons do not want that to stand because the daughter has previously received both the fatherly and motherly portion etc.. My thought is that if you want to raise up the sons with with properties and she consents to that,that lets the matter go forward; if,however, that cannot be and it has previously been delivered to the daughter your conscience does not need to be burdened as you cannot bring back what they have been given previously .Therefore you are not to trouble yourself thereabout.


In addition Mr.Andres has requested to write to you and plead that you would complete the benefits, which you have begun, to him until Easter and support for this little time in studies. Herein you will well know how to proceed kindly and Christianly.Herewith be commended to God with all of yours. My honored house-holder,Frau Kaethe greets you in a friendly way. Om Wittenberg on the Monday after St.James (31 July) 1536. Martinus Luther,D.

Note:That is St. James the Elder whose day is July 25.
Many a pastor has found that counseling on wills to be treahcerous waters.
"Vergeben" sometimes refers to a misdeal in playing cards.

#2261- Luther,in collaboration with other theologians, to Leonhard Beier in Zwickau

Since our Gospel and Doctrine stresses forcefully that the two regimens,worldly and spiritual,should well be distinguished, yes, are not to be mingled only unless the highest necessity or trouble of the persons forces it. That is, if there are persons at the administrative site (Rathaus) and city-regime, and on the other hand, where there are persons caring for the pastor office and church, one should not seize or fall into the office of the other but each should be permitted to be commended to his own conscience as St. Peter teaches we should not alienorum curatores vel inspectores (guardians or inspectors of others) be; from the beginning Christ separated the two offices and also experience teaches very well that there can be no peace where the Council or City wants to rule in the Church and the example of the Papacy teaches that well; accordingly we plead and admonish you, Mr. Parish-head, and Magister Leonhard, good friend, that you hold to this firmly in Zwickau as the Visitation Articles and the Electoral Recess has concluded.The devil is not ceremonious and the flesh and blood is not good and the people in this dangerous time are wondering and curious many of whom do not seek peace and unity but what desire and imagination require. Accordingly, because there can be no peace and unity abide when there Caplan (assistants), school-masters,and church-servants are put in church-offices without the knowledge and consent of the parish-head in that they defy and knock with the Council while everywhere support is found against the parish-heads: thus you should concede to the example and insist that they place nor tolerate any Caplan,School-master,or chuch-servant without your knowledge (if it is being considered) and consent; as we here in Wittenberg do according to the express voice of the Visitation that the parish-head without the knowledge and counsel of the worldly regiment can be accepted or refused which also, as far as we know,all other cities do
where the Visitors (otherwise none can be received) have visited. Worldly regiments have enough to do and don't need to be burdened with unnecessary regimens. It would also be an annoying prospect for Zwickau to be ashamed to follow the example of Wittenberg and other cities because it is according to the Visitation-ordinance and it makes no sense not to yield to such general orders but rather leads to division and destruction of the church. We should thank God that a few of our churches in similar order are constituted and practice; and God will grant no happiness to those who such order and unity destroy and for the sake of their own desire for glory and pretension without any necessity. God help and strengthen us all in the right faith and unfeigned love,Amen. Monday after St. Magdalene (24 July) anno Domini 1536.Martinus Luther,D. Johannes Bugenhagen,D. Georgius Spalatinus

#2258a-To Johann,Georg,and Joachim of Anhalt

(On a marriage case -Ed.)
To the illustrious, high-born Princes and Lords, Herr Johann and Georg and Joachim,brothers,Princes in Anhalt,Grafs in Ascanien and Lord in Bernburg, my gracious Lords.

Gratiam and peace in Christ. Illustrious, high-born Prince, gracious Lords!It is true that the marriage case written about by EFG has just in recent days come before me and I said that such a degree (of relationship between parties) is neither forbidden by divine nor by imperial law and they should seek with EFG whether it can be obtained and they may travel to there. Since the Emperor has subjected his law to the Papal law so it is up to each authority whether they want to follow the imperial law or let the imperial law remain under the Papal as the Emperor does. Therefore it depends upon EFG what they want to do herein or permit. I am glad to proceed this way (since I am anti-papal): if the cases have come to ad copulam carnis (physical relations?) I advise that one punishes civiliter (civily)to make others timid (?) and afterward permit them to be together; however, to make a public right out of that I cannot yet support because people become too wild and in the name of Christian liberty want to do whatever they desire. I have written much about such matters for the sake of a bound conscience (which God has aroused in me)and not for the sake of wild, raw,gross,fleshly,obstinate people. If EFG now wants and for the sake of those who might come afterward this marriage may be permitted for them but yet others must not make a right or example out of this. It may well be that there will people come who might well be indulged and therefore it is not to be condemned or sanctioned. It lies am prudenti magistratui, qui aequitatem spectet, condiseratis circumstantiis locorum, personarum, tempus, necesstatem etc. (it rests with the prudence of the magistrates,who follow equity considering circumstances at hand,persons, time, necessity, etc.) Herewith be commended to God,Amen. Vigil of Magdalene (21 July) 1536.EFGs' willing Martinus Luther.
NOTE: My Latin is not too good or polished but think it might be acceptable in this case. Let me know, you Latinos.
Lately alot has made a ML letter to Joachim counseling him as Joachim was down in the dumps thinking he had betrayed and crucified. Am remembering a Christmas article in the Lutheran Witness of 2007. Just saw something also in a Methodist publication. Think that Luther letter to Joachim was in 1535 but I don't remember running across it or maybe it was letter of encouragement without mentioning the exact complaint. What do you remember?

#2256a-To Georg,Prince in Anhalt

(This is about the same matter in #2253a)

To the illustrious,high-born Prince and Lord, Lord Georg, Tower-probst of the Arch-stift in Magdeburg,Prince in Anhalt,Graf in Ascanien,Lord in Bernburg, my gracious Lord.

G.und Fr.(Grace and peace) in Christ. Illustrious, high-born Prince and Lord! EFG has sufficiently and moreso has much toiled in the Schenitz matter. However, at the same time the Roman Cardinal thinks in his way to delay and accordingly wants to make EFG and all asses so I completely humbly request EFG to desist and to give God room Who must judge such a fellow. So I also want to free my thoughts toward the fiendish tyrant. Accordingly I want,if God wills, to die with Psalm XXXVI on the holy Father and the hellish red hat. It will proceed as God wills. I yet see that they despise our kindness and my prayer thus they will find disgrace. Such discussion of mine I want EFG to regard as good; it grieves me very much that the red hat also misuses and despises EFG's faithful heart and also want (if God wills) not to forget that.Too much rips the sack open. Herwith be commended to God, Amen. Monday after Margaretha (17 July) 1536. EFG's willing Martinus Luther,D.

NOTE: Not sure about the expression of "dying with Pslam 36 on the Pope and Cardinal". ML often talks about dying and maybe an exposition, full of imprecations,is what he wants to leave? The Editors not that the original has the plural fathers for which they substituted 'father' thinking he meant the Pope,I guess. I may have some further info coming from Luther Index on the expression so watch for correction, if need be.
Interesting that I don't see an exposition of Psalm 36 in the St.Louis Edition?

#2255-To Johann Forster in Augsburg

(concerning der Wittenberger Concordie) (St.Louis Edition has "in" Augsburg for "zu".
Sounds like they were getting Anglicized.)

To the, in Christ,highly-repectable man,Herr Joh.Forster, Magister and faithful servant of the Church in Augsburg, his very dear brother.
Grace and peace in Christ! I plead with you very much,my dear Forster, that you take it in a friendly and patient way that I have not written anything to you about the meeting here as I see that you were awaiting and thought it sufficient that you were awaiting it. However, I am so overwhelmed with the letters of others as well with other matters that I was forced to put my keenest friends until newly won (friends) over completely and having the opinion that you and other old friends would rather suffer the delay and happily bide your time than those who were pressing for the recently adopted agreement as was the case mainly with your Magistrat (high officials). However, up to this day I have not written to all of ours (party) and am required by the Prince's chancellery to do so.

Surely I have very expressly and clearly protested again and again at this convention when they did not have an upright and clear disposition to the matter itself might have stood against the Concord itself because this duplicity would have resulted in an imaginary harmony and finally give birth to an unending split. However they have taken up everything in a holy and earnest way, also our Apology, so that I could not repulse them. I have also said: if you should deal otherwise, we would oppose you with this Apology. Christ knows what will happen and if He makes this Concord firmly a great wonder will have been done. But now we await the answer of the churches and your authorities whether this our coming to one pleases so that the Concord can be concluded and publicly published. Without the consent of both parties nothing can be done by us alone as we have the command from them. And thus we have announced to ours. To M.Bucer (as I hope) it has been sufficiently said that he will not permit the Magistrat to incite or act against the positions and rights of the institution-lords (Stiftsherrn). You pray with us all that everything well go happily, and finally (with God's enabling hand) the many and great offenses in the Church will cease, Amen. Greet all those who belong to you (adherents=Angehoerigen). My Kaethe greets you. The LOrd be with you. The 12th of July 1536. Your Martin Luther.

#2254-To Heinrich, Duke in Saxony (ducal Saxony)

(About the situation in #2246.)

Grace and peace in Christ. Illustrious, high-born Prince, gracious Lord! I have written previously to EFG for Matthes Luther, (called Lother in #2246)citizen of Freiburg. Now he complains to me that my writing was harmful to him rather than beneficial on account of some words which one may point to further and he yet pleads for a hearing and judgment; whether it can be demonstrated that he spoke and did something against Baptism or the Sacrament or influenced some and if so, he will suffer what he deserves. Thereupon it is my poor request that EFG will search out this matter and if he is found innocent that he graciously be permitted to come back so that there is not outcry that no one listens or sees; especially since there are quite several who consider him not guilty part of whom dwell in the lands of EFG. EFG will graciously know how to proceed herein. Herewith, be commended to God, Amen. On Tuesday after the Visitation of Mary (4 July)1536. EFG's willing Martinus Luther,D.

2253a-To Georg, Prince of Anhalt

To the illustrious,high-born Prince and Lord, Lord Georg, Prince in Anhalt,Thurmprobst in Magdeburg,Graf in Ascanien, Lord in Bernburg, my gracious Lord.

Grace and peace iin Christ. Illustrious, high-born Prince,gracious Lord! Antonius Schenitz is now writing EFG, and I also wanted to write in addition requesting humbly that EFG would, as you have graciously been enmeshed,continue (to urge?) the Cardinal to make an end of the case or to release EFG from the mediator-position and ourselves also. I note that the man has the cardinal manner of trickery and wants to delay the matter so that meanwhile death may take him away or one portion taken from us; yet the Stift (?)(institution, foundation) will not die with him. If he keeps the field by right, our part is free; if that is lacking, he might also have it. God will be the right Judge, convictus iste Epicurus (condemn that Epicurus?)EFG herewith be commended to the dear Christ,Amen. Friday after Peter and Paul (30 June)EFG's willing Martinus Luther,.D.

NOtes: This was very difficult for me not being sure about whom the pronouns were referring to. Asked help from Luther Index for help on the Latin and general purport of the letter. From a previous letter I remember Schenitz being forced out of ducal Saxony by Duke Georg and Cardinal Albrecht. The latter is the arch-enemy of ML and Duke Georg following close thereafter. I think a "Stift" is generally a foundation or institution set up by the government.

Saint Vitus Cathedral,Prague

#2253-To Wolfgang Loech and Peter Thun (Thym),Citizens of Zwickau

G.(grace) u.(und) peace in Christ! Honorable,dear good friends! Regarding your writing on the marriage case,as you present it, it is my advice that the man, husband to the deranged woman is not responsible to marry the woman he has made pregnant before the death of the wife because there was no engagement. Howevr, there is this. He might well be responsible to legitimize her and restore her honor because she was humiliated and ruined by him as the Scripture says except for the friendship or link be too near according to the spiritual law. You could by your authority require that they should suffer such marriage it is then my advice that they could legitmately remain with one another.Such a link (relation?) is not forbidden by God or imperial law, but on account of willful,evil people is not to be allowed as a right although in such cases after the fact, as here happened, it may be permitted and suffered. But if the woman has not been made weak one should not suffer it on account of the people. Because it has happened one can let it beif the authority is satisfied and no one's conscience may be shunned because imperial law permits it. Herewith be commended to God,Amen. Tuesday after Vitus (20 June)1536 Martinus Luther,D.

NOTE: Editors say Burkhardt explains that shortly after the marriage Wolf Hayn of Zweinitz has wife became insane and Wolf impregnated his brother's granddaughter. The court decided that they could marry and live together only outside of the electoral lands.

#2249-To Spalatin

To the highly-renown and worthy man, Herr M.Georg Spalatin, the very faithful servant of God, his very dear brother in the LOrd.
Grace and peace in Christ! You have done well, my dear Spalatin,in that you have had mercy on this man, Wolfgang Gotzel and written for him to the most illustrious Prince and I request that you continue to recommend him as he is worthy and has need. I have not at the same time wanted to petition for him so that I would not hinder your petition. You know sufficiently the suspicious nature of the Court and that there are delicate ears there so that perhaps they might from mine conclude that there was, as it were,the matter being pressed by collusion (composito).For this reason I have advised that you put forward your application first.If this is not beneficial you will indicate so to me and mine will follow. Be it right well with you in the LOrd with yours and thine. The 12th of June 1536. Your Martin Luther.

#2248-To Spalatin

To the worthy and truly blessed man, Herr M.G. Spalatin, the very faithful servant of Christ, in the LOrd his very dear brother.

Grace and peace in Christ! Worthy Spalatin, Kilian Zimmermann has come here. He was either driven out of or fled Glaucha and has requested help toward some sort of position. However, there are so many poor ones coming here from every place that it is not likely there are enough positions for them. Because of this he has finally requested that I recommend him to you and I request that you take it up and this letter serves to make it happen. Since he also ,having lived near Altenburg ,is in your ecclesiatical jurisdiction.

I have no news and do want to pass that which is already old to you as the very horrible tragedy in England. About your Asmodeus I will write as I can; meanwhile Christ grant that through patience you will overcome.Greet your very lovely wife and tell her that I in the best and upright way think about her and that she may these motherly (and not to mention step-motherly) insults bear. It will finally be that everything turns out for the best and happiest but those will come to shame who want to blemish her. Be it right well with you in Christ with all of yours,Amen. On the Saturday after Pentecost (10 June) 1536. Your Mart.Luther.

NOTES: The tragedy in England was the execution of Queen Anne Boleyn earlier in June.
Asmodeus is described by ML in his foreword to the book of Tobit (Vol.XIV,p.77) as the devil who disrupts and ruins family life in contrast to the other heroes and heroines of the book.
Spalatin early in the 1520's was counselor to Elector Fredrich. About the time of the latter's death Spalatin became one of the pastors of the Stiftkirche in Altenburg.

#2247-To Justus Jonas

To the higly-renown and worthy man,Herr Justus Jonas,Doctor of Theology and Probst in Wittenberg, his superior in the LOrd.
Grace and peace in Christ! You will, my dear Doctor Jonas, greet Herr Spalatin because I cannot write to him. 1536 Midweek In Pentecost (7 June). Your Mart.Luther.
But listen to what I have forgotten: your letters appear to be exceedingly happy and give the aroma of rightly-made, delicious red wine although you and Spalatin have not indicated the same and put forth other reasons. I am happy that the hope for harmony is so great but soon the former are inclined to quarreling and the disturbing old one finds a different dispute since he, like the salamander lives from fire so he himself lives by hate,strife, and dissension. I write little because yesterday the entire day I suffered the passage of a stone which you, with horror, call lead; however, having avoided wine and a number of granules have passed through and so I am again well. Happily
I have learned everything from the Landgraf especially that our Prince has dealt so generously and graciously in this our union or attempts at union. My lord Kaethe greets you respectfully and is happy that you are happy but she fears that you may be deceived by the goodness of the wine and that you through excessive use may have gathered by the use of the same stones so that you will bring along your kidneys full of them "so rough and sharp" (these are her words) "of stones as the kegs are after they have been drained", but you may say they have their origin here in Wittenberg although you have always sown them elsewhere you (publish here?) go out from here and return here again as Michael Stiefel once said that you are accustomed to go outside from time to time to pass wind but when you come back in with your colleagues you bring the stink with you. You will no doubt recognise the Philosophy as I also learned it through her (Ed. Kaethe) at Coburg. Everything at your house goes well. Again be it well with you.
NOTEs: Believe Jonas is teaching at Jena for a time and organizing a school there. Both Jonas and Luther suffer from kidney and/or gall stones. Anyone know about the effect of red wine on "stones"? If I understand the Editors correctly they think the Latin per ipsam means ML is relating what Kaethe wrote to him while he was in Coburg (Gruboc) during the presentation of the AC in June of 1530 and several months afterward. Michael Stiefel independently devised a system of logarithms. Also predicted the end of the world and ML stepped in to save his neck when it didn't occur.

Electoral Saxony and Ducal Saxony

When writing to Heinrich in the post below ML calls him Duke in Saxony and one might wonder what happened to Johann Friedrich. Actually Heinrich is probably still the head of Friesland until his brother Duke Georg expires in 1539. This is the Albertine line with the main cities of Dresden and Leipzig. Electoral Saxony (Ernestine) with Wittenberg and Altenburg is the domain of Johann Friedrich. I used to have a neat map of the two Saxonies. But the boundaries of Saxony have changed over the years and today it is not the same as it was in ML's day. Duke Georg was the arch-enemy of Luther
but Heinrich introduced the Reformation in Ducal Saxony as he succeeded his brother Georg all of whose nine children preceded him in death.

Henry IV by Cranach the Elder

#2246-To Heinrich, Duke in Saxony

Grace and peace in Christ. Illustrious, high-born Prince, gracious Lord!A citizen of Freiburg named Matthes Lother has done the wrong thing with words against our doctrine and that of Pope etc.Thereupon I severly admonished the citizens, who had indicated the same to me by writing, that they should see to it that he be forbidden to do this. Thereupon (I hear) that EFG has proceeded against him with great vigor so that he is fearful for his life and must flee which I was not unhappy to hear this about EFG. Now he comes to me and pleads, with the intercessions of many good people, that I should write to EFG on his behalf that EFG would mitigate the punishment so that he does not have to sell his possessions and live with his wife and child outside the land. I am thinkg it would be better if EFG would extend for a long time his stay in prison for his punishment and near his wife and child being duty bound and if he should again undertake this immediately the head would be neglected (verwahrlost=defenceless?)Such lads when they are with similar ones made the fire (Feuer or Fewer) worse than if they are kept in the land and made responsible there as my most gracious Lord, the Elector ordered for Carlstadt and several others. EFG will know well how to consider everything since I scarcely know how one should stop these people. If they are permitted to stay they do not stop their assaults; if they are chased away they make it ten times worse. If, however, this Matthes is sincere as he has made known in humble confession it would be better if were kept in the land under responsibility than if outside the land he becomes desperate and brings about greater unhappiness. Herewith be commended to God, Amen. Midweek in Pentecost (7June)1536. EFG's willing Martinus Luther.

NOTE:This sounds similar to what the Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia describes as the procedures of Philipp von Hesse with the Anabaptists.
This seems a clumsy translation but maybe someone can improve upon it. Maybe they are under obligation (Pflicht) to cease and desist.

Philipp von Hesse and Christine (first wife)

#2245a-Advice of Luther,Cruciger and Bugenhagen to Landgraf Philipp von Hesse

And after our gracious Lord Landgraf reports that several leaders and teachers of the Anabaptist are imprisoned and to be banished because they have not kept agreement, EFG may in good conscience the same,who on account of their disobedience have not kept their oath or agreement , punish with the sword.
This is the general rule. Yet, may our g.(gracious)Lord at all times accompany grace with the punishment according to the circumstance of the situation.

NOTE: Editors take the date of the above as 5 June 1536 from Burkhardt as likely. I have translated "zusage" as "agreement" but was wavering between that and "allegiance".

Chancel of St. George-Eisenach

#2245-To Nicolaus von Amsdorf

To the highly-honorable man and worthy Lord Nicolaus von Amsdorf, Licentiat of Theology,in the LOrd his very dear brother.

Grace and peace in the LOrd! I am sending to you, my dear Amsdorf, that which we have dealt with in our meetings and request, at the same time, that you share this also with others, mainly the Pastors of the larger cities according to what opportunity you might have and write here (to us) when you can your and their judgment.

That book of Bibliander or the letters is published contrary to the will of those who were here and they are disgruntled about it. The churches of the Swiss are not yet in this matter of the Concord although they have good hope and say the communities and people are tired of this split and satieated with it and wish that harmony will be established.God bless you according to His goodness,Amen. I have written this being tired after a sermon; more later. Be it welll with you in the LOrd. On the second Pentecost day (5 June) 1536.

NOTE: Editors say the book by Bibliander is a collection of the letters of Zwingli and Oecolampads in 1536 with a foreword by Bucer.
Anyone ever tired after a sermon? Anyone ever tired of a sermon?

#2244-To Markgraf Georg of Brandenburg

To the illustrious, high-born Prince and Lord, Lord Georg, Markgraf in Brandenburg,Duke in Stettin,Pomerania etc.,Oppeln etc.,and Prince in Ruegen etc.etc.,my gracious Lord.

Grace and peace in Christ. Illustrious, high-born Prince, gracious Lord! I have received two letters from EFG and both of them graciously written. The first as to how EFG's Lord Father, Markgraf Friedrich was required by God to leave this world etc., and this pleased me very much that EFG demonstrated such loyal,family honor toward your Lord Father in writing to such an insignificant person as I so graciously and in such a friendly way although also previously EFG had the reputation(by God's grace) that you during the life of the highly-named Lord Father gave him every honor during the life-time of FG.

The second as how the students (whom EFG has greatly supported) are studying I know nothing other than that it is going right; since the alley-going and night-howling is yes, praise God, not so horrible as it was previously. However, EFG should not be mistaken about that if I should find one who portrays the same I will make it quickly known to EFG and send him home as I have done with some. What happens in secret I do not know all about; but everything public is taken care of with all earnestness.

What was dealt with by us in the meeting regarding the Sacrament etc. EFG will learn the finality of everything in a written form as will all the other Princes, Lords and Preachers who are involved with this matter; since we do not want to make any final conclusion nor will we nor can we without their knowledge and consent because there is likely more involved than some think. However, so far they have betaken themselves already that they want to faithfully hold and teach according to our Confession and Apology (Confessio und Apologia). Yet we are dealing with them on several articles so that every danger and poison is set aside and there will be a true Concordia; we want to send all this to EFG. Because EFG is one with us in Confession you must be certain (as all others) thereby or want to be about how such Concordia is concluded and made.

EFG would best help with the Preachers so that old matters are not so sharply judged and the stupid are not scared away. I consider that you are truly serious; if not they are likely to strive against the adopted Apologia. And it means nothing that they condemn the papal procession and ciboria about which we have previously held nothing. Herewith be commended to God; in a short time I want to write further. Monday after Exaudi (29 May) 1536.EFG's willing Martin Luther,D.
NOTE: Early on the Augsburg Confession was known as "Apologia"
Looks like the reference to Procession and Ciboria is to the second article of the Wittenberg Concord in which they say that the Body of Christ is present only in the "Gebrauch und Niessung" (use and partaking) not in being carried about in Processions. There the word for Ciboria is Sacramenthauslein- the covering over the chalice-like vessel containing the consecrated host. Ciboria were also architectural features-canopy over the altar but looks like ML is talking about the former here.

Johann Riedtesel

For a plaque on the life and work of Johann Riedtesel see: "http://www.riedesel.org/photos.html#weimar"
Thanks to Paul Riedesel for that! J.R. was sponsor Martin and Kaethe's son, Martin

#2243-To the Council in Augsburg

To the honorable,discerning Lords, Mayor and Council of the city of Augsburg, my favored Lords and Friends.

Grace and Peace in Christ. Honorable,discerning, dear Lords and Friends! I have heard both of your preachers one after the other and I, as much as possible,have been friendly as they themselves will convey everything to you. And although it has progressed so far, praise God, that we have become united, to the extent humans can confess,it is, on the other hand, my humble, friendly plea that such unity might be strengthened and remain constant as I have greatly pleaded and admonished your preachers in a friendly way and that we not only teach harmony with words but also from the foundation of the heart (rooting out all suspicion) and might trust one another in Christ as true love does and should do.And should such unity , which we have here established,be pleasing to you and your preachers make the same known to us
in time as we will make known to you how it pleases our parties of preachers and lords here. Thereupon it is to be made public in print to the praise of God and shame of the devil, Amen. The Father of all consolation and peace strengthen and lead your hearts with us in the right confession of His dear Son, our LOrd Jesus Christ in Whom is hidden all the riches of the wisdom and knowledge,Amen. On the Monday afte Exaudi (29 May) 1536. E.E.'s (your honors?) willing one M.L.

NOTE: Apparently a similar letter on the same day is written to the Council of Strassburg where Bucer and Capito serve but it is in Vol.XVII,2119 and I have not been venturing much away from Vols.XXIa and b.

Bucer and Concord

4. The Wittenberg Concord.
The outcome of these endeavors was the Wittenberg Concord, which was agreed upon with Luther in 1536 by a delegation of Upper German theologians under the direction of Butzer. In this Concord the concession was made to Luther that the body and the blood of Christ are truly and essentially present with the bread and with the wine and are so given and received, the only modification being that the unworthy, but not the unholy, actually receive the body of the Lord. By this agreement a certain sort of theological understanding was reached between Luther and the South Germans, but the rupture between Butzer and the Swiss was accomplished.

5. Critique of Butzer's Attitude in the Controversy.
Whatever views be held of Butzer's efforts for union, especially in the eucharistic controversy, his honest intention and his unselfish zeal to serve the Church are beyond all question. His diplomatic tactics were not always such as to inspire confidence, and they gave offense to other parties besides Luther. Butzer himself felt it afterward and honestly acknowledged that he had not always interfered in a discreet manner. The whole subject of controversy was of less interest for Butzer than for Luther, hence Butzer's readiness to make concessions and ever new formularizations. The real success of his endeavors was that the South Germans were not only induced to make common political cause with the North Germans, but were also drawn into the communion of Lutheranism, in spite of their peculiar doctrine of the Lord's Supper. The fact that Melanchthon, influenced partly by Butzer, took an intermediate position, and was thus drawn nearer to Calvin, was also far-reaching in its importance for the future formation of the Evangelical Church in Germany. The outcome of the Schmalkald War and the defeat of the Protestants (1547) gave the emperor power to settle the religious troubles by the Augsburg Interim (see INTERIM) in 1548, which was accepted by the majority of the intimidated diet and was to be forced upon the city of Strasburg. This was most energetically opposed by Butzer and his younger colleague, Paul Fagius, on the ground of the Romanizing character of the document. But when the council, yielding to the force of circumstances, accepted the Interim, Butzer perceived that he could remain in Strasburg no longer, and he accepted a call to England, whither he had been invited, together with Fagius, by Thomas Cranmer, archbishop of Canterbury, the soul of the Reformation in England

Thanks:This is from the Christian Classics Ethereal Library of Calvin College and by Paul Greenberg.

#2241-Elector Johann Friedrich to ML and Melanchthon

To begin with, our greetings. Honorable and celebrated, dear devout and faithful ones! The celebrated, our cousnselor and dear faithful one, Bleikard Sindringer,Doctor, has reported to us ,as he arrived here with us today, among other things, that the matter with you and the Oberland (highland) cities preachers', who are now with you in Wittenberg, have reached good and harmonious means and ways which we should support as such to the honor, glory,and praise of Almighty God and the also the increase and spreading of His saving Word be benficial without doubt. This we graciously and gladly heard.

However, because the above named Doctor Bleikard did not actually know how to describe which form it would take and to what degree of unity the reported matter would extend to and so that we might gladly know the same it is our gracious desire you would provide us with the same, as you take leave of them, without delay and beneficially, by your own true messenger to Naumburg in writing which differentiates and reports giving us this knowledge which we here in Torgau have not received. May what have given you be a pleasing opinion and we are graciously inclined toward you. Dated at Torgau on the Thursday of the Ascension of the LOrd (25 Mai) Anno 1536.

NOTE: Check this with the experts as the language of the court is unbearably obtuse. But the essence is that the Elector wants a report as to the unity which may be achieved with the preachers of the highland cities which are those in the south.
Pastor Benjamin Mayes (see comments) has pointed that this is the Wittenberg Concord of May 26,1536. The "oberlandische" cities are Strassburg (signed by Bucer and Capito),Augsburg, Ulm et al and signed by Luther,Jonas,Creutziger,Bugenhagen,Melanchthon,Moenius, and Myconius. The last two of Eisenach (Menius) and Gotha respectively.

#2230-To Johann Riedtesel

(This a little bit earlier than the latest letter due to some translation problems which were mostly cleared up by Luther Index and Professor Susan Karant-Nunn of Arizona and with thanks to them.)

To the valiant and stoutly-honorable Johann Riedtesel, electoral Chamberlain in Saxony and in new market, (zum neuen Markt) my favored Lord and dear god-father.

G.u.F.(Grace and peace) Valiant and firmly-honorable,dear Lord,friendly, dear god-father! The two sons of Michael von der Strasse,formerly escort (Gleitsmann) in Borna, who after their father's life received a fund from a churchly income given by MGH and availed for three years so their studies had a good beginning and because their father left them in great debt that they not be able to continue their studies and it would be harmful if such a good beginning be abandoned, I request that the funding be continued for yet another three year period. I have learned that EG is inclined in such a good matter that the dear youth be educated in a praiseworthy and Christian way;so I request this in a friendly way. EG would with MGH do the best and make this and be beneficial to the poor youth and thus I want to assure EG of my confidence that he will provide. Herewith be commended to God and greet for me your dear love whom you also know is also to me very dear. Dated at Wittenberg 16 April anno MDXXXVI.Martin Luther,D.
NOTE: Riedtesel is god-father to Martin, son of Martin and Kaethe born in 1531, I think. From Luther Index I learned that Professor Susan says that Michael von der Strasse is a proper name and also she wrote to me that "Gleitsmann" is an escort for supplies or people. E.G. (your grace) is Riedtesel.M.G.H.(my gracious Lord) is, I think, the Elector of Saxony.
"zum neuen Markt" is still a mystery to me. Now see http://www.riedesel.org/photos.html#weimar Thanks to Paul Riedesel for that!

DomMinden

#2239-To Elector Johann Friedrich

To the illustrious, high-born Prince and Lord, Lord Johann Friedrich, Duke in Saxony,Arch-marchall of the Holy Roman Empire and Elector etc.,Landgraf in Thuringia, and Markgraf in Meissen, my most gracious Lord.

G.(Grace) a.(and)Peace. Illustrious, high-born Prince, most gracious Lord! The Council in Minden in Westphalia with their superintendents have readied pointed letters to ECFG , in addition written to me pleading their prevailing need commending ECFG faithfully to grant gracious advice. The priests cannot rest and are strengthened in animosity by the terrible situation in Munster and in all other places trying to root out the Gospel. Would that God would defend against them,Amen. ECFG will know how to advise and be able certainly to do what is the best for the good people ; although against force there is little to advise if God does not steer things with a greater force.. Herewith be commended to God. Sunday of Vocem Jucunditatis. (21 May)
1536. ECFG's obedient Martin Luther.

NOTE: Vocem Jucunditatis- Fifth Sunday of Easter-"With the voice of joy..."

#2235-To Johann Brismann in Koenigsberg

To the, in Christi, highly-revered man, Herr Johann Brismann, a true Doctor of Theology, and now very faithful preacher in Koenigsberg, his vert dear brother in the LOrd.
Grace and peace! Your letters to very are always acceptable, my dear Brismann; that I have not always the same answered you have yourself given the reason in your letters namely that I am very busy. However, the business is not as responsible as the messengers who either out of pride or because of their own situation often neglect me also when I do write. Moreover since I am already old and more often quite ill I am forced to let go many more important matters to friends in whom I have this confidence that they will not have need of this stimulant to friendship whether I am dead, or a living and pressed servant of the doctrine of Christ among whose number I have always reckoned you to be one of the first. Christ has begun a good work in you , may He bless and strengthen you in these very bad times. However, Christ is victorious and rules,Amen.

Greet for me respectfully Herr Poliander and all collegues, and also D.Basilius Axt with his.

This Easter I am resurrected with Christ from the dead since I am so very sick that I am convinced that I must go to Christ our LOrd which I eagerly await and wish for but there is a different will in heaven that before the grave I must see more evil. The schismatic spirits which have often been struck down by God nevertheless cease not to rage,as you also write, because your God does not cease but bellows and seeks those whom He would devour. Let us pray, let us pray, let us pray boldly in faith and be watchful. Surley He does not sleep.

Be it well with you in Christ, my dear brother, and pray for me that our LOrd Jesus Christ may in a good hour take me away from this evil world, Amen. On the first day of May 1536. Martin Luther,D.
NOte: Still almost ten more years (1546) before the good hour of departure comes for Doctor Luther.

Fritz Reuter

Ut mine Festungstid

From Ut mine Festungstid, Fritz Reuter's account of his year's in prison for treason:

Den Nahmiddag kamm de Inspekter tau mi un makte mi de Anzeig', dat ick ok 'ne Stun'n up den Hof spazieren kunn, 't wir allerdings noch nich von de Kummandantur anordniert; äwer hei wull dat up sine Kapp nemen, denn ick müßt jo doch an de Luft. – Ick namm dat denn girn an, un as ick up den Hof kamm, markte ick denn, dat dat Däuweder was, un dat de Snei ballte. Um mi nu 'ne gaude Motschon tau maken, wölterte ick grote Sneiballen tausamen un set'te sei upenanner, bet 'ne Ort von Postament farig was, un dunn namm ick en rechten schönen witten Sneiklut un fung dormit an tau kneden un tau pusseln, bet ick 'ne Ort von Bostbild farig hadd, un as ick min Makwark neger betrachten ded, dunn sprüng mi 'ne Ähnlichkeit mit den ollen, braven Dr. Martin Luther entgegen, ick makte em de Backen en beten dicker un de Näs' en beten stuwer, un dor stunn hei liksterwelt. Dat was grad kein Kunstwark; äwer, as de Upwohrer K. nahsten, üm mi wat Schöns tau seggen, säd, en jeder künn doch seihn, dat't en Mannsminsch un kein Frugensminsch sin süll.

Tranlated from Low German by Carl Bayerschmidt:

In the afternoon the warden came in and announced that I would be permitted to go out for a walk for one hour. To be sure, the permission had not yet come down from the commandant's headquarters, but he was assuming full responsibility for his action, because I had to have some fresh air. I accepted gladly, and as I went down into the courtyard, I noticed that a thaw had set in and that the snow was sticking. In order to get a little exercise, I rolled some big snowballs together and placed one on top of the other until I had made a pedastal. Then I took a nice white lump of snow and began to work on it and shape it until I had fashioned a sort of bust. When I looked at my work of art more closely, I was struck by its resemblance to good old Dr. Martin Luther. I filled out his cheeks a little and also flattened his nose a litte, and there he stood true to life. It really wasn't such a great work of art, but the jail attendant, K., in order to say something nice about it, later remarked that anyone could see that it was a man and not a woman.

Thomas Cromwell by Holbein

#2229-To Thomas Cromwell, Kanzler of Henry VIII

To the renown and distinguished man, Herr Thomas Cromwell (Cromweller), of the most illustrious Lord, the King of England etc., secretary and counselor, his Lord.
Grace and peace in Christ! That I have not yet answered the letter of EW (your worthiness)which D. Barnes delivered to me, honored Lord, is the fault of this D.Barnes who suddenly departed and did not stay around here so as to greet me or wish me well as he was in such an hurry. However there is time and opportunity for me to avenge this neglect. However, for your very friendly and acceptable letter I am very thankful and would to God that I by the grace of Christ would be worthy of the way you describe me. Since I consider myself to little merit of that which, as EW believes, I demonstrate; one thing I confess to the LOrd that through His grace the zeal and will is not lacking in me, or as Paul says the will is present but I do not find in me the carrying out of it; yet He, who sees my incompleteness, is complete and will finally, according His time make it complete in His time according to His good will. To Whom be glory forever,Amen. D. Barnes has made me exceedingly happy in that he has related to me the earnestness and appropriateness of EW in the matter of Christ especially in your repute throughout the entire kingdom with the most illustrious King which may bring about many benefits. I pray and will pray to the LOrd that His work which He has begun in EW He will happily strengthen and to His glory and the salvation of many people,Amen. From D.Barnes, whom I commend to the mercifulness of the Father, EW will richly learn how it is with us and will be dealt with. Wittenberg, on the day of Palmarum (9 April) 1536. EW's devoted Martin Luther,D.
NOTE:Cromwell was executed in 1540 under Henry VIII on charges of treason and heresy.Letters to Lutherans were used in his trial. Real reason was likely arranging the marriage of Henry VIII to Anne of Cleves
Editor: The Latin D.T. for Dominato tua was rendered Dignitas tua thus the German E.W. for Ew.Wuerden.

#2228-To Wolfgang,Prince in Anhalt

To the illustrious, high-born Prince and Lord, Herr Wolfgang,Prince in Anhalt,Graf in Ascanien and Lord in Bernburg, m.g.(my gracious) Lord.
Grace and peace in Christ. Illustrious,high-born Prince, gracous Lord! For a long time I wanted to write to EFG and would orally speak with on behalf of EFG's preacher Mr Johan Schlainhauffen in Koethen, but I always forget since with the many projects I have become old, lazy and completely forgetful. And this is the matter. I have discerned from him that as the air in Koethen is very difficult for him but since he has in EFG such a gracious, good Lord he, also my be, was persuaded to remain there until now although it would be healthier for his body in a more bearable air; since he was born and dwelt in fresher air. Now finally I have talked with him, though not wanting to tell him what to do, about that though he cannot well be in Koethen that also he not be out of the sovereignty of Anhalt but that since Worlitz is now vacant that he let himself be placed there as there is likely fresher air in the woods; since I do not want him to be completely out of the sovereignty. He has also answered that he would gladly give it a try especially since it is near Wittenberg. This is my humble petition to EFG that he gracously give helpful advice so that the good man and also the need of his body (which has gone on for years) be care for as is right according to God's command. Request of EFG a gracous answer.Herewith be commended to God,Amen. On Palmday (9 April) 1536.EFG's willing Mart.Luther,D.

#2227-To the ViceKanzler Franz Burkhard

To the highly-honored man,Herr Franz Burkhard (Burgardo),Vicekanzler to the Prince in Saxony,his especially dear friend.
Grace and peace in Christ! I very much request of you, my dear Franz, that the appeal-writing of this man be delivered to the Prince and that you support that the illustrious Prince has in this matter has given a very strong order namely that both parites be forced to abide simply by the judgment of Justus Menius or whomever happens to be available.They have often attacked us and would not yield to be satisfied with our final judgment. I do not know what devil has become mixed up in this matter we being absent cannot advise anything fir(firmi) for those who are absent. Do what what you can. On both sides they are blood relations of mine therefore they trouble me more than others. Be it well with you in the LOrd, joyful and strong,Amen. On the Saturday before Palmarum (8 April) 1536. Your Martin Luther.
There must also be consideration given regarding the expenses which they accrue in going back and forth such a long way as maybe Justus Menius only resolve this at the place itself.
NOTE: Editors think this is a marriage case.

Weissensee

#2226-Elector to ML

(This is the Elector's answer to #2224)
To begin with, our greetings. Worthy, dear devout one! We have received your writing regarding the 40 Gulden which I prescribed for Doctor Hieronymous Weller as a beneficence from the Castle Wartburg and do according to your request as appropriate and have written the pertinent Sequestrator of Thuringia to deposit with the official in Eisenach the 40 Gulden who will know how to put it in its proper place. Thus he may seek it from the official and the money will come of our provision come and immediately be given. This we did not want to keep from your gracious opinion. Dated at Torgau on the Saturday after Judica (8 April) Anno 1536.

#2225-Elector Johann Friedrich to ML,Jonas et al

(This is a summary in the St. Louis Edition of the Elector's reply to #2223.)
Elector decides on Michael Coelius to be preacher in Naumburg.)

Walpurgis Night-April 30

But the name “Walpurgis” comes from a very different source.






In the 8th Century, a woman named Valborg (other iterations of the name include Walpurgis, Wealdburg and Valderburger) founded the Catholic convent of Heidenheim in Wurtemburg, Germany. She herself later became a nun and was known for speaking out against witchcraft and sorcery. She was canonized a saint on May 1, 779. Since the celebration of her sainthood and the old Viking festival occurred around the same time, over the years the festivals and traditions intermingled until the hybrid pagan-Catholic celebration became known as Valborgsmässoafton or Walpurgisnacht – Walpurgis Night.

#2224-To Elector Johan Friedrich

Grace and peace in Christ etc. Most illustrious, high-born Prince,most gracious Lord!Now is the time of Walpurgis which according to the prescription of ECFG Doctor Hieronymous Well was to receive the 40 Fl. from the Wartburg Castle as a beneficence. Now Mr. Just Menius writes that because of the order of the Sequestrator
he cannot receive neither in Eisenach nor in Weissensee receive the mentioned beneficence excecpt ECFG order the Sequestrator to let proceed the same to the treasurer or official in Eisenach and as in the previous year the messenger-pay and writing be gratis. Such writing of Mr. Just I request obediently to make known to ECFG so that the 40 Fl. will be secured for the named Doctor Hieronymous and if he should expect the same. Because the Sequestrators are sitting idle it is difficult to get them together and meet with them as Mr. Just also indicates. ECFG will herein will know how to give gracious advice. Herewith be commended to God,Amen. On the Thursday after Judica (6 April) 1536. ECFG's obedient Martinus Luther,D.

Naumburger Dom Towers

Naumburger Dom -Adelheid and Otto

#2223-To Elector Johann Friedrich in collaboration with Jonas,Bugenhagen and Melanchtthon

Illustrious,high-born Prince and Lord! Our obligated service at all times ready in complete obedience to Your Electoral Grace. Most gracious Lord! Your Electoral Grace's writing regarding providing a pious, learned pastor for the city of Naumburg we have received and perused the entire content and our eager to fulfil the desire of Your Electoral Grace however we want to offer Your Electoral Grace the humble opinion which should not go unexpressed that at this time there are few talented preachers available whom we can go without and give with the exception of Doctor Hieronymous Weller who perhaps upon our request might let himself be useful. In addition there is Mr. Michael Celius, Preacher for Graf Albrecht of Mansfeld who previously wrote to me Martin Luther, Doctor, that I would provide him with a service and Preaching-stool elsewhere assuming that he would likely receive permission and release from the above-named Graf, my gracious lord, and he would also be talented and pious for such an office. Whomever of the two would please Your Electoral Grace we will work with earnestness to provide so that the people of that place will not be deprived of knowing the divine truth but might be cared for by it. We want to put the same before Your Electoral Grace to consider in grace as our obligation since we are at all times willing to serve obediently Your Electoral grace. Dated at Wittenberg on the Tuesday after Judica (4 April) Anno 1536. Your Electoral Grace subject,obedient Martinus Luther,Just.Jonas,Probst,Johann Bugenhagen,Pastor,Doctor, and Philppus Melanchthon.
NOTE: The abbreviation: E.churf.G. or Ew.ch.F.G. for Your Electoral Princely Grace throughout the letter.

#2222-To Elector Johann Friedrich

To the illustrious, high-born Prince and Lord, Herr Johann Friedrich,Duke in Saxony and Elector etc., Landgraf in Thuringia and Markgraf in Meissen, my most gracious Lord.

Grace and peace in Christ our LOrd along with my poor prayer. Illustrious, high-born Prince,most gracious Lord! We have obediently received ECFG's command from Magister Franciscus, vice-minister, regarding the English etc.; and have translated all the articles into German and given them over to M.Fransicus wherein ECFG can see how much we have accomplished with them. Because they do not know how much of the same their Lord King will accept especially the final four they are taking some background to relate to SKM (his kingly majesty). Should now SKM accept the same
the alliance may progress since such articles agree with our doctrine; thus they are wanting that a messenger be ready who may clearly report to the King. Should SKM not want to accept these articles or seek many loop-holes or alterations therein, we cannot for sure for the sake of our churches confuse or cause error when they are scarcely yet at rest and quiet.
The King's issue with marriage ECFG can close as a religious-case, or if it is thought good to offer the extent which we have judged it.

Regarding the matter with Duke Georg ours have hardly dealt with it discreetly so I have been highly disturbed. However, ECFG has a good conscience and honorably and Christianly offered to let go all disagreements; God has done enough, He will also not forget in His time. However that revenge-seeking and peace-breaking man remains as he has been at all times blood thirsty and murderous until it happens to him according to Psalm VIII:"You have put down the enemy and the avenger." The best is that he cannot pray with such hardened evil with all who depend on him; thus he doesn't need to since he is so proud. We can, however, praise God, pray since we seek and offer peace and therefore God will hear us since we humbly confess our sins and seek His glory. Jesus Christ, our dear LOrd, strengthen and comfort ECFG against the devil's threats and bitterness.He well has alot more evil times in mind,Amen. Tuesday after Laetare (28 March)1536. ECFG's obedient one Martinus Luther,D.and the others et al.
Appendage:
Doctor Caspar Cruciger has also requested me to write to ECFG and request that ECFG would graciously provide the Eulenburg castle for his wedding; he doesn't anywhere else to go, since it cannot be in Leipzig or Wittenberg. ECFG will know graciously how to proceed. In such matters one must raise help. Herewith be commended to God,Amen.

#2219-Elector Johann Friedrich to Luther

To begin with, our greetings. Revered, dear devout one! Since the well-born, our counselor and dear faithful one, Wilhelm, Graf of Neuenar, is now now here with us he has with him his preacher who wishes to address you and other scholars in Wittenberg and make a presentation to you, to be received and requests of us that we can be beneficial to him in regard to Wittenberg. Because we regard the above named Graf as loving the divine Word above all else and are inclined with every grace and the above named preacher in our recent trip was known to a considerable extent by Spalatin and Mr Fredric Mecum and regarded by them as pious and learned so we want him to come by you and demonstrate and prove his good will and will also at the same time cover the expenses while he is there; therefore we want you to make an evaluation. This we do not want to keep from you and you will do according your gracious pleasure.Dated at Weimar on the Friday after Oculi (24 March) Anno 1536

#2218-To Wenceslaus Link in Nuernberg

To the highly-renown and highly-honored man, Wenceslaus Link, Theologian and Servant of Christ, his brother in the LOrd!
(Luther is joking with W.Link,his good friend-Editor)
"Grace and peace in Christ!" Because it is now already some life-times since "that I have not written nor spoken Latin",good Wencelaus, I fear that I might not also know my ancient Latin,--except that you, I believe, my have suffered a similar danger;for this reason I hope that my faith will justify me before you apart from evil and good works because you are a gracious God toward such a great sinner as you would have one do to you in similar sins,Amen.

There is nothing that I might write to you only that I did not want to send these very honor-worthy Evangel-women, namely Frau Detzelin (Detzelinam) and her daughters,away without a letter. I would also have sent several mountains of gold except that often in these years our Elbe overflows and carries away all the gold sand with it and leaves behind stones and gravel some atoms of which remain in the side of Jonas (Jonas had gall or kidney stones) although he is yet an extraordinary enemy of Epicurus who disputed about atoms. However, I joke, sick and healthy,weak and strong, a sinner and a righteous one, recently dead and living in Christ.You, there under streams of gold and silver, I plead, do not send me dreams (somnia) but poetic seeds (semina) which please me very much. Do you not understand it?

"I want to speak German, my gracious Herr Wenzel. If it is not too difficult for you,nor too much,or too long,or too far, or too high, or too deep and the like etc., I request that you would have some lad assemble all the German pictures,rhymes,songs, books, Meister-songs this year which are painted,poetic,made,printed by your German poets,form-cutters,or printers since I have reason why I like to have them. Latin books we can make here by ourselves; we are earnestly learning here to write German books and hope to make them very good and already have done though it pleases no one." Be it well with you in Christ and pray for me. The LOrd be with you and all your flesh, and greet all of ours. Monday after Oculi (20 March) 1536. D.Mart.Luther,"a Doctor like yourself".

NOTES: Link (1483-1547) born the same year as Luther and died the year after Luther.
Headed the Wittenberg faculty in 1512. Succeeded Staupitz as vicar-general of the German Augustinians.(Gleaned from Luther Cylcopedia)
Luther still knew a little Latin. Note the play on somnia and semina.
ML evidently referring to the atomic theory propounded by Democritus.

#2217-To Spalatin

To the worthy and highly-honored man,Herr Magister Georg Spalatin, the faithful servant of Christ, his very dear brother.

Grace and peace! We have, worthy Spalatin, from the illustrious Prince, received an apropriation for the young nobleman Johann Rostock which, I believe, you already know from the letter of D.Jonas. For this reason I request that you would proceed,as much as you can, that he may receive something as soon as possible. Since Jonas will,as is easily believable, be burdened by the care of so many friends that you would further for him the just and necessary appropriation by your friendship and faithfulness which both of us have always experienced from you.Be it right well with you in the LOrd with the berries, grapes and vine, your household. 1536 on Oculi Sunday (19 March). Your Martin Luther,D.

#2216-To Johann,Georg amd Joachim of Anhalt

To the illustrious,high-born Princes and Lords,Lord Johann, Georg, and Joachim,Princes of Anhalt,Grafs in Ascanien and Lords in Bernburg, my gracious Lords.

G.(Grace)and Peace in Christ and my poor pater noster. Illustrious,high-born Princes,gracious Lords! I have received EFGs' answer about Heinrich von der Loche and am thankful for EFG's gracious writing. Since EFG has set the day after tomorrow and he is old and weak I request once again that EFG would find an amelioration to the sharpness of the law with grace in the light of the fact that the good man has been long in the possession and has put invested much and it is not believeable that it was without the knowledge and will of EFG's father and nevertheless yet (if it is so) it might be dangerous if he should be expelled from the property and it would likewise be the responsibility of the authority just as much to let it go and happen since the underling has bona fide siezed it and paid for the inheritance etc., which makes the current sharpness appear to be unjust since the responsibility is likewise the responsibility of the ancestors on both sides. EFG will know how to proceed graciouly and christianlly. Herewith be commended to God,Amen. In Wittenberg on the Monday after Reminiscere (13 March) 1536.EFGs' willing one,D.Martinus Luther.

#2215-To Nicolaus Hausmann in Dessau

To the worthy and blessed man,Herr M. Nicolaus Hausmann, the very faithful servant of Christ in Dessau, his very dear brother.

"Grace and peace in Christ". Worthy brother in Christ and very revered man! I recommend to you the deliverer of this letter who has told me of his hope or that opportunity may be given to him to receive some sort of a position in a school by you. Therefore he has requested on this account that I might write to you and recommend him. I am doing this rather because he has a written witness from the Graf of Hoya in Westphalia which is placed before me so that he is not considered a stranger or held in suspicion. If there is a need for his labor there in the school, then do for him what you can.

There is nothing new beyond that I have undertaken a public writing attacking the crocodile of Halle whom in a private letter have made him to be a dragon and cardinal of the devil. Pray the Christ Who has begun the judgment of him will complete it since he, yes, unto the end remains impenitent and does not cease to persecute the grace of God.

On the wedding in Torgau I have nothing except that everything went.splendidly. In the evening I married the groom and bride; earlier D.Pommer had blessed them (as I was seized by dizziness and could not do it) and it was completely according to our way as contained in the cathechism since that is what the Prince wanted.The princely groom is a very good young man, sober and discreet,so that to me his appearance,his morals, and his talents filled me with great joy.Christ support him and increase all His blessings to him,Amen. Herr Kaethe greets you respectfully. Be it well with you in the LOrd and pray for me. On the day before Reminiscere (11 Marz) Anno 1536. Your Martin Luther.

NOTE: The marriage was between Duke Philipp of Pomerania and the Elector's sister Maria.

Elector Johann Fredrich to ML #2214

(This is a summary.)The Elector repeats his offer of the Black Cloister at Wittenberg to Luther and
his family of 4 Febr.1532 for their use. This is dated 6 March 1536. See #1872 for the original offer.

#2212-To Anton Lauterbach in Lieisnig

To the highly-revered man, Herr Anton Lauterbach, the faithful servant of the Church in Leisnig, his very dear brother.
Grace and peace in Christ! " Ach, my Anton, have patience, it will soon be better. As to the other, on the aborted birth (Fehlgeburten=abortis) and the dying at child-birthing these are my thoughts." Firstly on those who die in giving birth (Kindbetterinnen) there is no doubt that they are saved if they die in faith since they die in their God-created responsibility for their generation and thus faith in their work is active,yes,in the cross is found to be completed so that it is confident for the day of judgment or rather awaits comfort. For this reason we must admonish the women that they greatest care apply to bare the fruit even if they must die in baring the fruit. Since some are rather inclined to care for their life rather than the fruit in that they fear death and (want to) escape the pains.

Secondly, on the fruit which either dies in the mother's womb or in being born this is my opinion: this sign of God's wrath, to be sure, is not to be despised on account of unbelieving and evil men who when they know there is nothing to be gained do that which it is too horrible to think about. Therfore with the hard and non-comprehending people make this misfortune (however, in private)great in order that any future presumption is avoided, about which the world has plenty enough, so that perhaps on account of the same God permits the same so that they should be afraid. However, because this commonly befalls the blessed (to the dismay and offense of the godless) we must assume that it is for the testing of our faith. For this reason, if the women are blessed they should commend this to the goodness of God who is much better than anyone can think. Thus He has not bound Himself to any Sacrament so that He could do nothing apart from the Sacraments as He ,apart from the law, has made many (also kings) without the law made blessed, namely, Job,Naaman,the King of Assyria,Babylon and Egypt. Still, He has not on this account wanted that His will should be publicly despised rather kept with the punishment of the curse. So I hope that these little ones who without their guilt have been deprived of baptism and if there was no despising of a public ordinance that the good and very merciful God has good in mind for them but that He,because of the evil of the world,does not want it proclaimed or permit it to be believed so that there is not a despising of all things which He has commanded occuring. Thus we see that there is much that is commanded because of the evil of the world but which He regards clearly as nothing
for the sake of His blessed people. Thus the Spirit works everything for the best. By the perverted He is perverted. Therefore I request that you do not teach this my opinion publicly which particularly belongs to the conscience of the godly. The great crowd of people would right away take this as a certain law which it can securely follow so that they could either kill or neglect the fruit with knowledge and willfulness. Therfore be silent over this matter in public and comfort the good consciences in private. Since God has not revealed to us nothing of what He will do with the little ones who are not baptized but has reserved them to His mercy but that publicly the Word and Sacrament should be insisted upon; "that we should let be". He is not unrighteous. Be it right well with you. Greet Agnes, your flesh. 1536 the Tuesday after Dorothea (8 feb.) Your Martin Luther,D.

#2210-Elector Johann Friedrich to Luther

To begin, our greetings. Revered and celebrated,dear devout one! Your recent writing we have read aloud and there would be no need for your thanks for the wine and wild boar which we have delivered to you since we are inclined to demonstrate much more our favor toward you.Also if the wine pleases you and tastes good we did not want to withhold any favor and ordered the best to be sent.
However that you report that the English envoys have spoiled the case by bickering and little has been accomplished we have not known and are not happy to hear but tolerate the delay and expenses without being burdened since we know they also have other reasons for the delay about the place.
Because those from Strassburg and Augsburg who are with you are vehement about your determining a place and time for a meeting with them and you need to respect such a discussion so we permit the same and are pleased to have learned the same since we hope that it will extend to much good and regard Eisenach , in addition ,as a most convenient place. Therefore you, at your opportunity, let them know the place and time and if you agree with them on the above named place and time and we also know of that day we want to attend you with horses, wagons and provide supplies. And because you do not see much benefit or necessity for much getting together, so let it be for our pleasure that you take along Doctor Pomeranus (Bugenhagen) or Magister Philipp Melanchthon whom we herewith want to be with you. This gracious opinion we did not want to keep from you and we are inclined toward with every special grace. Dated at Torgau on the Thursday after the Conversion of Paul (27 Jan.) Anno 1536.

#2208-To Franz Burkhard, Electoral Vice-Kanzler

Grace and peace from the LOrd! The wine sent to me of which you write as a present is approzimately 6 Eimer, my dear Franz, and I wish you happiness in your new honor or labor and I pray the LOrd (Deum) Christ that He will increase evey blessing and support, Amen.

We are in discussions here with the English if you can call bickering discussion.To me it is unacceptable that it is of such great expense as to be a burden to the Prince.I am at least satiated ad nauseum and I already long before had begun to hate this word-quarreling with Carlstadt and Zwingli as Paul says (1 Tim.6:4)that the heart becomes darkened with such and everything which one knows is lost and one becomes a fool. "As they wanted to be considered wise,(says he,{Rom.1:22), they have become fools". More of this orally.

The debate on the Private-masses will be held next Saturday (Jan.29), as God wills, and it can be summed up in this syllogism; Every human service in divine things is an abomination; Each Private-mass is of this sort; therefore every Private-mass is an abomination.

Be it well with you in the LOrd and come when you can. Given on the day of the Conversion of St. Paul (25 Jan.) 1536.Your Martin Luther.

NOTES: As Catherine of Aragon just died in January 1536 one would think the question of the marriage of Henry VIII would have been settled. Nevertheless Anne Boleyn will be executed in June of 1536.
An Eimer is a pail.

#2207-To Georg ,Prince of Anhalt

To the illustrious, highly-worthy Prince and Lord,Herr Georg,Tumprobst in Magdeburg, Prince in Anhalt, Graf in Asconien and Lord in Bernburg,my gracious Lord.

G.et.P in Christo (Grace and peace in Christ)and my poor pater noster etc. Illustrious,high-born Prince, gracious Lord! I note that my non-gracious Lord, the Bishop etc., has delayed the case of Anonius Schenitz, and I as I always was concerned has pretended the reconciliation and kindness of the miserable and mine is a mockery. Now since he has again thrown the rope about the horns of EFG and again used it so that he can again find and put before EFG much business daily so that EFG must out of one forty days four, five et forty days make until finally his time and whim so that he might at last reward EFG as M.Georg Schenits and others in addition. Since it is not my suspicion alone but the outrage of others that he is not to be trusted and if God grants him a true word whether one could find him to believe it. Therefore it is my heart's wish that EFG would permit him to remain idle and let him be a pious and holy Cardinal if it is possible that a Cardinal can be holy and pious.Thus they do not call Cardinals without having the four cardinal virtues, as the work praises the master and the fruit the tree. Therefore I request that EFG would let this matter go and come to an end; where the skin and hair is not good etc. I must let something proceed since I want to take the Cardinal with me, it goes as God will,Amen. EFG to serve I am willing. Herewith be commended to God,Amen. The Day of St.Timothy (24 Jan.) 1536. EFG's willing one,Martinus Luther.

NOTA BENE:Georg Winkler, pastor in Halle, was murdered by By Cardinal Albrect.
There was a proverb if the hair and skin was not good, it could not make a good fur.
"da wird kein guter Pelz aus".There are various four cardinal virtues beginning with Plato among them; justice,fortitude,prudence, temperance. Anyone have four for four?

Catherine of Aragon

#2206-To Caspar Mueller, Kanzler in Mansfeld

To the honorable and discreet Caspar Mueller, in Mansfeld Kanzler (leading minister),my gracious lord and dear god-father.
Grace and peace. My dear lord Kanzler and god-father! I wanted to write to you extensively according to your wishes; I am also ill with coughing and head-cold; however the greatest sickness that is over me is that the sun has shined so long on me which affliction you well know, which is so common,and one would rather die. People have become blind because of such long shining; several have become gray, black and wrinkled thereby. Who knows that perhaps also your thigh was injured when you stepped upon a stone which by the sun's rays was heated, and also brought you these sad days? Although the dear sun is not responsible though the mud is hardened by its shining and the wax has become soft. Its manner is to move and bring several things to the eyes; as it is deft so it at last discovers everything.

I might well want Kegel for a boarder for various reasons but because the bursar is again coming from Jena the table is full and cannot push aside the present companions;if, however, there is place after Easter I would gladly do your pleasure if Herr Kaethe would be favorable to me.

About the English delegation (about which you Manfeldish lords are so curious)I know nothing special to write. The queen (Catharine of Aragon) is dead; and one says that the Fraulein,(Mary I) the daughter is deathly ill. The case she completely lost before the whole world except for us poor beggars, the theologians of Wittenberg. They would have liked to preserve the royal honor that if she might have lived. This has become the end and the conclusion.

The Pope has dealt in this matter as a Pope,contraris bullas given and with that ploy it is right that he has been expelled from England but not for the sake of the Gospel (etiam non Evangelii causa). He has truly cast the die against the King so that I almost can excuse the King and yet cannot justify the matter.

Dear one, yet curse one more time the Papacy with the Pater Noster so that it gets St.Velten (epilepsy). The Pope's Orator is here, as you know; however, the answer given in Schmalkald I cannot, in haste, send. Now I must cough and cannot before the cough seek it out; if the cough lets up I will attempt it. Yet I think the cough will let up if you pray for me.

For the division of the foundry to you I wish happiness to you. However for the rest I do not have bad hopes; since my theology says that man's undertaking and God's blessing are contrary to one another. If my dear Fatherland is to be stripped so be it on my part undefended.

However, simce neither you nor Jacob Luther write how it goes that makes you very good fellows and the Kauf-people with your silence you make us poor children (as we are here)think that we and you are always to be beggars.Yet God should nevertheless nourish us,Amen.

Tell my brother that my cough and his silence do not permit me to answer. Greet my black hen together with the little cook. I must cough and on the Lenten night go to Torgau; I do not know whether I will cough in the same way. Perhaps I must let Hans of Jena take the lead. My lord Kaethe greets you in a friendly way and pleads that if the sun shines upon you it will not be in in an overwhelming way, as I, if it is in your power


Your god-son Donimus Ioannes greets you; does not want to become great (but not in evil)according to God's will. Herewith be commended to God.

Let my ways please you (as far as you know them); since I am so hard and dull, gross, gray,green,overloaded, mixed up, over-extended with cases so that I for the salvation of this cadervis (corpse) at times let the desires break out of the fence.Man is no more than a man apart from what God can make one yet not apart from our anointing.Greet all the good lords and friends.1536 Midweek after St. Peter's Catherdali (19 January)D. Martinus Luther

NOTA BENe: The Queen is Catharine of Aragon who died in January 1536. The daughter, Mary, I was a sickly child but survived to be Queen.
The Kaufleute are the Kaufmanns i.e. on the side of ML's mother. Sounds like the foundry was divided among the relatives.
Dominus Ioannes is the son John of ML and Kaethe for whom Caspar Mueller is god-parent.

#2205- To Nicolaus Hausmann in Dessau

To the worthy and highly-reverend man, Herr M.Nic. Hausmannn, servant of the Word in Dessau, his superior in the LOrd.
Grace and peace in Christ! I plead with you, my dear Hausmann, that you would the marriage (matter?) of M(eister) Peter let pass over. M(eister) Petr has no authority over her since she as a widow has been long freed (emancipata) from the fatherly authority and is independent and M(eister) Peter has by public judgment been deprived of the house and possessions. She married at her own risk and it is enough that M(eister) Peter had so tragically dealt with the previous son-in-law so he should have not much to do with this but rather be concerned with his own being.
For the pastor in Woerlitz I do not know now of any settled position (so I will not make any futile promises to him); however, when I can, I will gladly be of service to when some sort of position is open.
As to news I have none beyond which you no doubt have heard there from M.Franz. The English envoys are waiting here for M.Philippus for him to further the matter of the King. I am involved with so many things that I hardly devote much time to any particular thing. My Kaethe greets you respectfully; be it right well with you in Christ. About Spiegel and your matter I will at another time write briefly. Again, be it well with you. On the day of St. Antonius (17 Jan.) Anno 1536.
NOTE: If this is as thought Peter Balbierer he stabbed to death at table the previous son-in-law and he was banned by the Elector. ML intervened and the death sentence was lifted.

#2204-To Balthasar Raide, Preacher in Hersfeld

To the highly-honorable brother in the LOrd, Balthasar Raide,the very faithful and upright servant of the church in Hersfeld (Hirsfeldensis).

Grace and peace in Christ! Your letter has been delivered to me, however, by a chance messenger so that I was not able to respond. And since you have requested to see my hand I have written on the back side of this letter with large letters.If by this portrait you can recognize my hand,good; if not, still my temperment; I believe that I can discern not only your hand by your letter but also it is a witness of your disposition. The LOrd Jesus preserve you in this His kingdom. Yet, meanwhile, pray also for me that I may be free from certain godless people as you boast, in the LOrd, that you are free from the Anabaptists and the Sects. For me new prophets are always standing up and always one after another so that I almost wish to depart so that I do not see so much evil without end and at last be free of this kingdom of the devil. This you will pray for me since I am asking it of you. Our LOrd Jesus Christ preserve you;in Him be it right well with you. Given on the seventeenth of January 1536. Your Martin Luther.

NOTE: ON the back side which ML calls "dorsum huis chartae" of the original according to De Wette in large letters: Manum mean petisti
ECCE
manum meam habes
Martinus Lutherus
i.e. You wanted my hand, behold, my hand you have.

Maria Rossetti on Eigendunkel

eaning of the expletive."
The elder Miss Rossetti had also something of her elder brother's artistic faculty. Two or three designs in A Shadow of Dante were her own work. In addition to this book there is one imaginative essay by her which is practically unknown. It is very scarce indeed; possibly not half a dozen copies are extant. I have seen one copy only, that which was lent me by Miss Christina Rossetti. it was printed privately in 1846, when the authoress was in her nineteenth year. The title is The Rivulet; a Dream not all a Dream, and the matter is an allegory of life and religion, where the personalities are introduced as Liebe (Love), Selbsucht (Selfishness), Eigendunkel (Presumption), and Faule (Indolence). The "rivulets" represent the natural heart of man; the "serpents " who are for ever fouling the waters, the devil ; the fruit and flowers overhanging the banks and poisonous when 'they fall into streams, the grosser and less palpably sinful allurements of the world the crystal mirror which the guardian of each rivulet has in keeping represents the Scriptures ; the vases of perfume, prayer ; and the healing water, baptism. The booklet is animated by the same extreme religious sentiment of renunciation that many years later prompted the authoress to enter the All Saints motherhood.

#2203-To Veit Dietrich,Preacher in Nuernberg

Grace and peace in Christ! We wish you happiness, my dear Veit, that you have taken part in the desired marriage and I plead for you it will go well. However not exccedingly so with everything going being like the skill of husbands so that perhaps you might make the holy Paul a liar who dares us to oppose the favored and heated husbands and says (1 cor.7:28):"Such people have physical troubles". If sometime the case should arise that it appears that Paul has spoken truly as you would want: then consider proving yourself as a man who can bear the weakness of a wife and extol like Peter (1 Pet.3:7) to rather preserve the manly rule so that you achieve the righteous wrath and then also not concede all power. However, what I teach, as the sow teaches Minerva, that the love of wedding glows yet so impetuously that you an hundred eligible (marititias) women (as now your new one is) could rule. Much more I wish you happiness in your call to the administration of the church. I pray and hope as well that you will not yield anything from the form of doctrine which here you rather have drawn than drunk. And I have arranged with the Doctor Hieronymous Schaller that he should say to you in my name that you should not permit any heathen (gentile) way rule you although you likely sometime may be tempted which in German is called "Dunkelfein" that is, namely, one who "dances well". Since you see what great unrest has been caused to be spread by those who have gone out from among us. Therfore I want that you greet your wife from me and pray that with all the powers of body and soul she earnestly defends so that you do not become an adulterer with that very lovely whore who is named Eigendunkel (philantia) and you be free from that burning desire if it perhaps stirs you as Paul in the letter to Titus (1:7) teaches: (may authaday GK.) (not pleasing yourself); you know what he meant. Be it well with you in the LOrd. My lord (Kaethe) greets you and wishes you happiness in marriage as well as in the preaching-office, and you, on the other hand, pray for us. Wittenberg on the 14th of January Anno 1536. Your Martin Luther,D.

Anne Boleyn

#2202-To the Elector Johann Friedrich

To the illustrious, high-born Prince and Lord, Herr Johann Friedrich, Duke in Saxony, Reich Arch-marshall of the Holy Roman Empire and Elector,Landgraf in Thuringia and Markgraf in Meissen, my most gracious Lord.
G.(Grace) and peace in Christ Jesus and my poor Pater Noster (Lord's Prayer). Illustrious, High-born Prince, most gracious Lord! ECFG's writing I have humbly understood. First, on Magister Philip whether he should be ordered here to discuss with us the matters on the King with the English messenger : therto it is my humble consideration that Maagister Philip (if he does not want to express himself on the matter) should also be there because ECFG before his trip to Austria prescribed to Doctor Antonius that he should require us theologians to come together as soon as the second messenger should come with it being here or (if the Legat wanted to avoid the Pestilenz) at Torgau. And ECFG indicated that they at Schmalkald received well the opinion of M. Philipp but I do not yet know how that proceeded or whether they were satisfied. To have the same again considered by ECFG I would not be happy that the Glimpf (don't know how to translate among many options) and outcry against us as they would despise us because here the constellation (Gestirne) are foolishly aligned against them that I almost marvel greatly; and yet they have the highest boast and praise without measure for how ECFG has regarded them until now etc.
To be sure on my part I can well appreciate that M.Philipp would want to be spared in this matter. Because I have the suspicion that I must pour this bath with no one or anyone; so there will fall (so I think) a great portion upon me. However, Magister Philipp's Glimpf (?)(leniency) I cannot offer.
Secondly, that ECFG so faithfully admonishes me to have good regard for the matter etc.,I thank ECFG heartily. However because they have prescribed to ECFG to tread down upon our previous appeals I must see and hear what they offer; ECFG may well learn (in confidence and private) that I cannot let, in conscience, it be hidden that the queen and young queen together before the whole kingdom should not be charged with incesti and incesta (blood shame)publicly as they boast that previously the Pope and and eleven universities have asserted. I cannot fathom the depth of their jurisprudence I could not say thereto more than a goose. However, I hold that my previous sentence should hold also but I do not want otherwise to be unfriendly to them or to imply that in other matters that they should think we German are stone and wood etc. Such I do not say at the table (conference table?)and they must hold to the matter etc. Otherwise every stable-boob would have to justify this matter everywhere. Such I want ECFG as an obedient answer graciously to receive. Herewith be commended to God and I humbly thank ECFG for the gift of the wild-game etc. On the Tuesday after Epiphany (11 Jan.)1536.ECFG'S obedient Martinus Luther,D.

#2201-Elector Johann Friedrich to Luther

To Docy.Mart.Luther, Johann Friedrich etc.
To begin, our greetings. Honorable and celebrated, dear devout one! After our Landvoigt in Saxony, Hans Metsch, yesterday arrived here, he reported to us among other things that he happily saw the English messenger and wanted us to require and write to Philipp Melanchthon to go to Wittenberg so that he and others of our learned ones discuss the marriage of the King of England and that the named messenger would also be there.
We do not want to keep from you our gracious opinion that we have also recognized the attitude of of Philip at Schmalkald: that he does not think such discussion useful; and that also the emergency of our University in Jena required that he remain there etc. Thus we at this time have consented and think it best that he refrain from the discussion and remain at our University in Jena.
Because, however we have from the report of our Landvoigt that the English messenger wants very much to have Philip at the discussion and we do not know whether because of previous considerations of this matter it would be necessary or not; thus it is our gracious wish that you would let us know your thoughts, also as to before, whether you regard it as good to have discussion with the messenger. And also whether you consider it well and useful that Philip should come to the discussion at Wittenberg so that we should not be lacking anyone. Such we do not want to be kept from your gracious opinion and are favorably inclined toward you. Dated at Lochau on the Sunday after Epiphany (9 Jan.) 1536.
____ a PS of the Elector which is questionable.

to you also of Magister Franz further reports what Philipp thinks of our considerations after his return to the University.
The dealing with England regarding the marriage matter we have no doubt will be given due respect so that nothing departing from Christian and honorable position will be made before God and the world will be determined and interpreted as your questioning of the messenger will yield and which I will chiefly have your gracious opinion with favored desire as you the matter with envoy of the King and you carry it out and that you will report the same in writing would be of great favor to me and commend me in your Christian prayers. Jo.Friedrich Elector m.ppr.sspt.