To Nicolas Hausmann letter 26 - Martin Luther

TO NICOLAS HAUSMANN

Luther, Melanchthon, and Cruciger had visited the Anhalt Princes in November at Worlitz. Luther found them well versed in the Scriptures, and in his own writings, as well as in those of Zwingli and OEcolampadius. At table they conversed on the Bible.

January 2, 1533.

Grace and peace! Three times, most cherished friend, the opportunity of writing you has, much against my will, been snatched from me. I have been overwhelmed with writing, as the books and prefaces, which will appear at this Leipsic Fair (Messe ), will testify. Therefore I beseech you to forgive my delay. My love to you is and ever remains unchangeable, although I may not always be able to give expression to it, but I am ever at your service. So, as I was finished with the books early this morning, I wrote the letters which had to be sent to Leipsic and Nurnberg this evening; and now that these also are dispatched, I shall devote my leisure to write fully to you, and to my gracious lord, Prince George, Primate of Magdeburg, to atone for my seeming neglect. I wish you much joy on your restoration to health. May Christ maintain you in good health, so that you may pray for me. My last sermon at

Worlitz is printed, and I enclose it. I fancy you have all my latest books, for I know Magister George’s zeal in such matters. It is said here that Christ has stricken the shrieker in Leipsic in the pulpit amid

his blasphemy. A canon in Hamburg who opposed the gospel committed suicide, and a Sacramentarian plunged into a well, and while they tried to rescue him he lay down on his back in the shallow water, and was drowned. His last words resembled those of Judas, “I have led many astray, therefore I have no hope.” Thus, O Lord, must thine enemies perish! Give my respects to your good and upright Prince, to whom, when I have leisure, I shall write a friendly letter. My Kathie greets you respectfully, and hopes you will pray for her.

MARTIN LUTHER . (Walch, 5:21. 1402, and Schutze.)