To the Elector John of Saxony letter 4 - Martin Luther

TO THE ELECTOR JOHN OF SAXONY

Luther sends thanks for present of garments. August 17, 1529.

Grace and peace in Christ! Most Serene High-born Prince, Most Gracious Lord! I have delayed long in returning thanks for the garments your Grace has so kindly sent me.

But I humbly beg you not to believe people who try to make your Electoral Grace think I am in want. I

have, alas, more than I can reconcile it with my conscience, especially from your Electoral Highness, to accept. And as a preacher it is not seemly for me to have superfluity. Therefore I sometimes tremble because of your Grace’s generosity towards me, incase I may be found in this life among those to whom Christ says, “Woe to you rich: for you have your reward here.” But to use common language, I have no desire to be burdensome to your Grace, for you have so much to give away that I know you have little over, and the purse may be rent asunder if so many demands be made upon it.

It was superfluous sending the leather-coloured cloth, but I feel much indebted to your Grace for it, and I shall wear the black coat in honour of your munificence, although too costly for me; and were it not your Grace’s gift I would never appear in such a garment. Therefore, I beseech your Grace to wait till I myself complain and beg, so that your kindness may not make me shy of asking favours for others who are much more worthy of your bounty. For your Grace loads me with too many benefits. Christ will graciously reimburse you for all this. I pray for this with my whole heart. Amen.

Your Grace’s humble servant, MARTIN LUTHER .