Page:The letters of Martin Luther.djvu/258

 ===CCXVIII=== TO PHILIP MELANCHTHON

Luther again blames his friends for not writing.

June 11, 1530.

Grace and peace! I now see that you have all entered into a compact to torture us by your silence. But I herewith announce that we shall now vie with you in your silence, although possibly that will not disturb you.

I must praise the Wittenberg people, who, although as busy as you, have written thrice before you sluggards wrote once.

I have received letters of condolence from every quarter, on my father’s death. If you wish, you can hear the particulars from Michael Coelin’s letter.

I lay down the pen, so that my constant writing may not drive you into a more persistent silence.

Greet our people. The grace of God be with you! Amen. My wife writes that the Elbe is dry, for no rain has fallen. Much water, many adventures.

Farewell. MARTIN LUTHER.

CCXIX
TO CASPAR VON TEUTLEBEN

Von Teutleben was a brother-in-law of Amsdoff, and managed the Elector’s business in Rome.

June 19, 1530.

Grace and peace! Esteemed and deeply learned Doctor and good Friend — I was delighted to hear that your Sophie and you are well. I have nothing new to write, for our silent Junkers send no letters from Augsburg, which annoys me greatly. And I know your brother-in-law, my good friend Herr Nicolas Amsdorf, would be indignant if he knew they had become so taciturn, especially at this time. He can be their judge.

From hearsay I learn that Venice has sent several thousand gulden to the Emperor, and Florence offered him