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 to its truth. Philip says that if God does not lay hold of Carlstadt through his wondrous power and wisdom, He will never be able to do so by ordinary means, so manifold are the resources of this monstrosity. But the proverb, “He who stirs up strife will himself perish thereby,” shall be verified in him.

Greet Lazarus Spengler and all our people in a friendly way from me. May you and yours prosper in Christ. Amen. MARTIN LUTHER. (Schutze.)

CCLXXXII
TO THE ELECTOR JOHN

The Elector John made over the cloister buildings and garden in Wittenberg to Luther in his last illness.

February 12, 1532.

Grace and peace, High-born Prince and Gracious Lord! Dr. Bruck has shown me the articles which are to be arranged by the Electors of Mayence and Pfalz — in view of a treaty between the Princes and the Emperor, and I have given my opinion as to the form in which they might be accepted.

Feeling certain that God has answered our prayer by granting peace, I could not refrain from presenting my humble petition to your Grace. For I fear the article about the King will give you ample cause for anxiety.

But, seeing that your virtuous opposition to his unrighteous election is known over the whole world, I would humbly beseech you, for the honor of God, to let said articles pass and not hinder peace. For even if it came to war, and that war were successful, peace must at last be concluded, and the terms after all the damage done might be much harder than now. Also, your Grace must see how firmly the towns and confederations are holding together, their magnanimity being a marvel to all; but only let the parties come into collision — then this unanimity will vanish like water — and neither citizen nor town will risk life and property for the sake of a prince. It is true if God sends human aid it is well, but to depend on this never prospers. But