To Marcus Crodel,schoolmaster in Torgau - Martin Luther

TO MARCUS CRODEL, SCHOOLMASTER IN TORGAU

Luther wishes his son educated at a public school. August 26, 1542.

Grace and peace! I send you my son Hans, as we arranged, my dear Marcus, so that he may be instructed in grammar and music along with the other boys, and at the same time I hope you will attend to his manners and morals. I am committing a great trust to you in the Lord. I shall never grudge the outlay, and you will report his progress and let me know what should be done with him. I send Florian, one of his schoolmates, with him, for it is important that boys should have others to vie with. But you must be more strict with the latter, and if you can, board him with a burgher; if not,

send him back. God bless your efforts. If they succeed, then I shall, if spared, send the other two boys; for in future we shall not easily find such unwearied instructors, especially in the languages, and such strict disciplinarians as you. Therefore, one must seize the opportunity, for time flies, and competent teachers disappear even more quickly. For more advanced studies they would be better here. Farewell in the Lord, and say to Hans Walter that I pray for his welfare, and commit my little son to his care in music. I can train theologians, but wish my children to have grammar and music. So once more farewell, and greet Gabriel and his family. And for the third time I wish you continued prosperity.

MARTIN LUTHER . (Schutze.)