To Eberhart Brisger - Martin Luther

TO EBERHARDT BRISGER

Luther pleads for one behind in his payments. August 30, 1543.

Grace and peace! I can quite believe that you require your money. On the other hand, I also see that with the good Bruno, I know not how, nothing seems to succeed. He requires assistance from all quarters. The farmers are so greedy that they grudge their pastors a bit of bread. I therefore plead with you — especially as you can do without your money with little injury to yourself — to have patience with Bruno. We are planning, if possible, to have him transferred to a richer living. I would

not trouble you with this request did I not think you could do me this favor without damaging yourself. Concerning Spalatin, I also beg you, as far as you can, to be patient with this, in other respects, so good and excellent man. So as Satan once upon a time appeared among the children of God — nay, even among the angels in heaven — what wonder then if he mixes among us to sift and winnow us? And with Spalatin old age is beginning to tell upon him, and especially the want of the repose which he enjoyed under three Princes. Therefore he must be treated with the consideration due to an experienced man, and not as a novice who can be twisted like a branch. Old stems can be broken but not bent; and old dogs cannot be bridled. So in order to live in peace, patience is necessary. This is merely a reminder. You know best yourself what to do. I herewith commend you to God.

MARTIN LUTHER . (Schutze.)