To Elsie von Kanitz - Martin Luther

TO ELSIE VON KANITZ

The visitation of the churches and schools began in February.

Melanchthon Schurf, and two nobles were sent to the Wittenberg district. May 2, 1527. To the honourable and virtuous maiden, Elsie von Kanitz. My dearest friend in Christ!

Grace and peace in Christ! I have written your dear aunt, Hanna von Plausig, to let you come to me

for a time, as I could employ you in teaching young girls, and thus set an example which others might follow. You would live in my house and eat at my table, so you would be safe and free from all care; therefore pray come. I hear the Evil One is tormenting you with evil thoughts. Oh, dear young lady,

do not let that trouble you, for those who suffer from the devil here will not be troubled with him

above; so this is a good sign. Christ also had to endure the same, and many holy prophets and apostles, as the Psalms plainly show. Therefore take comfort, and gladly suffer the Father’s rod. He will deliver you in His own time. When you come I shall discuss the subject fully with you.

I commit you to God. MARTIN LUTHER .