give me great offence. Those who condemn this book are merely showing what it is that they have hitherto sought in the Gospel. But I am surprised that some of the knowing ones do not apply the whole book to themselves, for it shows very clearly who the peasants are and who the magistrates are of whom it speaks. But he that will not understand, let him not understand; he that will not know, let him be igno- rant ; it is enough that my conscience pleases Christ. For the apothecary * I have tried hard to do all I could.
Despite the fact that I was otherwise minded, the Lord has suddenly and unexpectedly contracted a marriage for me with Catharine von Bora, the nun. I shall give the wedding feast on Tuesday after St. John's Day,* if possible. I do not wish to put you to any expense, and so, instead of inviting you to the wedding, I absolve you, with the consent of her ladyship, from the customary present of a loving-cup. If you come any- how, do not give us a loving-cup or an3rthing else ; only pray for me, who have to bear so many slanders and reproaches because of this deed that God has done. Farewell, and pray for me. Martin Luther.
694. LUTHER TO LEONHARD COPPE« AT TORGAU. Enders, v, 202. German. (Wittenberg), June 21, 1525.
Grace and peace in Christ. Worthy prior and father ! God has suddenly and unexpectedly caught me in the bond * of holy matrimony. I intend to celebrate the day with a wedding break- fast on Tuesday. That my parents and all good friends may be merry, my Lord Catharine and I kindly beg you to send us, at my cost and as quickly as possible, a barrel of the best Torgau beer. I will pay the transportation and every- thing. I would have sent a conveyance for it, but knew not where I should find the right kind, for the beer must be kept from jolting and cool ; if it is not good, to punish you I shall make you drink it all. I also beg you and your wife not
iSebald Nebc C/. Enders, iH, 357. ■June 27,
- Coppe was the burgher of Torgau, who had helped Catharine too Bora eac^M
on April 4-5, 1523. Smith, iSqf, and supra, no. 583. «An Ulegible word before "bond."
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