Page:The letters of Martin Luther.djvu/215

 so unlike yourself. For my part, I have no hesitation in begging you to set aside the lady’s promises and begin work in the Lord’s vineyard. So come with your wife and sister till Christ arranges something else.

The Papists, triumphant through Ferdinand’s mandate, are waxing bold, and probably will not grant the gospel’s servants any authority in these lands; and why should you buoy yourself with vain hopes? It is now three months since the plague left Wittenberg, God be praised! I hope you have read my treatise against the Anabaptists. I flatter myself that I have rescued some from their errors. The rest you will hear from our Rorar, Christ’s faithful servant. The grace of God be with you! MARTIN LUTHER.

CLXIII
TO LEONHARDT BEIER

Luther invites him to Wittenberg.

March 7, 1528.

Grace and peace! When Satan rages, my Leonhardt, he is only acting in accordance with his office and name. For, as the Scriptures say, nothing else is to be expected from him. But be steadfast, and struggle and pray against him in spirit and in deed.

There is One who is mighty, and He dwells within us. To God be honor and glory. If you be driven away, a refuge is waiting for you here, and all that the Lord has given us is at your service. For many (Exultanten) who have to flee from Ferdinand’s kingdom settle among us, who at least resemble Christ in His poverty. I commend myself to your prayers and those of your friends. Farewell in the Lord. MARTIN LUTHER.

CLXIV
TO GEORGE SPALATIN

Luther announces his arrival in Borna.

March 18, Grace and peace! I have this moment arrived in Borna, dear Spalatin, almost frozen, and starving of