To the elector John Frederick letter 15 - Martin Luther

TO THE ELECTOR JOHN FREDERICK

Luther thanks the Prince for a legal decision in his favour. March 26, 1542.

Grace and peace in Christ, and my poor paternoster, most gracious lord! I must discharge my debt to you, for it is long since I wrote you, and thank you for the verdict in connection with my Kathie. We are much pleased with it, for your goodness will do much to promote peace and harmony.

Next, I must thank you for the wine, although it is quite a superfluous gift. In the third place, we have let the rector and the university know that your Grace does not wish me to be taxed upon my house and goods, but that its valuation should be taken, for which I render my humble thanks. But I deem it right to let you know my thoughts on the subject, and plead for them your gracious consideration.

I would gladly estimate, if I could, the value of the great cloister house, but I fear that after my death my Kathie or the children might dispute the assessment, seeing I have always had difficulty in keeping it in repair with glass, iron, etc. Hearing that the house might through time be used for military purposes, I purchased Hans Brun’s house for my Kathie and the children for 400 florins and 20 for repairs, but have only paid 120 which I owe, therefore I can hardly estimate it, seeing it is bonded up to its value. But I humbly beg your Grace to let me value the rest, viz. the garden for 500 florins, the court with the garden 90, and a small garden 20 florins. I would gladly be an example to others and pay my mite towards the Turkish war expenses, for many give grudgingly. I do not wish them to be envious of Dr. Martinus, because he does not need to give. And who knows if God would not be as pleased with our offering as He was with that of the poor widow; and I wish to be among those who would injure the Turk. For were I not too old and frail I should like to be among the warriors. Nevertheless, our prayers have long been with those on the field, for I fear our Germans have been too foolhardy, having, to begin with, underrated the enemy, who is by no means to be despised, having all the devils in hell on his side; and if God with His angels does not become reconciled to us, I place little dependence upon our might or our preparations. I herewith commit you to the dear God. Amen. And I hope your Electoral Grace will not be offended because I delayed in answering, for at present I am

busy trying to put Mahommed into German, which prevented me thinking of anything else. Your Electoral Grace’s obedient MARTIN LUTHER .