To the elector John Frederick letter 7 - Martin Luther

TO THE ELECTOR JOHN FREDERICK Luther sends the articles to the Prince. January 3, 1537.

Grace and peace in Christ, and my poor paternoster, Most Serene Highborn Prince, most gracious Lord! By command of your Grace I arranged with Herr Nicolas Amsdorf, M. Eisleben, and M. Spalatin (for Menius and Myconius were too far away), who were here about St. Innocent’s Day, to revise the

articles as you wished, but on account of my weakness, caused by Satan, I am sure, were several days over them instead of one, as I hoped. These being confirmed and signed by them, I now send to your Grace by our good friend, M. George Spalatin. We all humbly plea, as some regard us with suspicion, fancying we wish to imperil you princes and lords with your lands through our reckless projects, that your Grace would rebuke them, for we would rather run any risk than endanger your Grace’s lands and those of other lords. Therefore your Grace will know how far such articles may be accepted by them,

for we do not wish them to be burdensome to any, for each must be left free to adopt them or not as he pleases. I herewith commit your Grace to the dear God.

Your Grace’s obedient MARTIN LUTHER . (De Wette.)