To Katherine, Luther’s wife letter 10 - Martin Luther

TO KATHERINE, LUTHER’ S WIFE

A jocular letter. On January 28 Luther left Halle, accompanied by Dr. Jonas. A stately cavalcade welcomed him into the Mansfeld land. He preached on Sunday, January 31, in Eisleben. February 1, 1546.

To my dearly beloved housewife, Katherine Luther, owner of Zulsdorf and the Saumarket, and whatever else she may be. Grace and peace in Christ, and my old, poor (and as I am aware), weak love to thee! Dear Kathie, I became extremely weak when I was close to Eisleben, but it was my own fault. However, hadst thou been there, thou wouldst have said that either the Jews or their God were at the bottom of it. For we had to pass through a village close to Eisleben where many Jews lived, and perhaps they blew upon me, for there is no doubt that at the village a strong wind blew in at the back of the carriage, penetrating through my doctor’s hat, threatening to turn my brain into ice. When the principal matters are arranged, I must endeavor to banish the Jews. Count Albrecht does not like

them, and has tried to expose them, but as yet no one has meddled with them. If God will, I shall help Count Albrecht, and speak about them from this pulpit. I drink Naumburg beer, which you praised so highly at Mansfeld, and it agrees with me excellently. Thy sons left Mansfeld the day before yesterday, as Hans von Jene seemed determined to have them with him. I do not know what they are about. If it is cold they may help us. But now that it is mild they must do or suffer what they will. I herewith commend you and all at home to God, and greet all the boarders. Vigilia purificationis.

MARTIN LUTHER, THY OLD LOVER. (De Wette.)