To the Elector John of Saxony letter 2 - Martin Luther

TO THE ELECTOR JOHN OF SAXONY About Melanchthon’s salary. February 9, 1526.

Grace and peace in Christ! Serene High-born Prince, Most Gracious Lord.

In the re-organization of the University your Grace ordered that Melanchthon should have 200 gulden a year as salary. Now the man (Mensch ) objects to accept so much when he cannot undertake with a clear conscience to expound the Scriptures daily. It is useless my speaking to him, for he declares your Grace expects him to lecture regularly. Therefore I humbly beg you to let him know that you will be satisfied if he help with the theological lectures and disputations as before, even should it be only once a week. For even should your Grace present him with this salary for a year or two, he is well worthy of it. For he expounded the Scriptures with great success for about two years without any salary, and perhaps to his injury. I am most anxious to have the Bible spread abroad here, for it is being eagerly inquired after from all directions. I herewith commend you to God.

MARTIN LUTHER .