To Justus Jonas letter 30 - Martin Luther

TO JUSTUS JONAS

Concerning his friend’s second marriage. May 4, 1543.

Grace and peace in the Lord! I have no intention, my excellent Jonas, of standing in the way of your marriage, or of anything pertaining to your prosperity, but would rather try to promote both. I only pleaded for delay in my last letter, and this solely because of the calumnies of the enemy and of those who try to blacken our actions; and although such scandal does not injure us, still, as Cato says, it is a heavy burden to bear without any cause. Still, if you feel yourself strong enough to rise above the ill- will of the devil and his friends, then go on in God’s name and do not dream of delay. Give up every dream of shutting people’s mouths and of winning their favour. You need not hesitate because of our Prince; he spoke very kindly of you lately. Still I wish you to stir up as little malice in our opponents as possible. I have heard your bride highly praised. God grant she may possess the many virtues of your Kathie — nay, surpass her whose memory is sacred. May the children and stepmother love each other dearly, and may she make up for the loss of the best of mothers.

MARTIN LUTHER . (Schutze.)