Letters Of John Calvin - free ebook by Jean Calvin

Read as playlist

Letters Of John Calvin

Jean Calvin

344 chapters

25 hour read

Read as playlist

Selected Chapters

344 chapters

DR. JULES BONNET.

DR. JULES BONNET.

VOL. I. TRANSLATED FROM THE ORIGINAL LATIN AND FRENCH. —————— PHILADELPHIA: P R E S B Y T E R I A N B O A R D O F P U B L I C A T I O N, NO. 821 CHESTNUT STREET. Entered according to the Act of Congress, in the year 1858, by JAMES DUNLAP, Treas. , in the Clerk's Office of the District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania....

15 minute read

Read Chapter

ADVERTISEMENT.

ADVERTISEMENT.

John Calvin, the profound scholar, the exact theologian, the enlightened statesman, and the eminent Reformer, exerted an influence on the age in which he lived, which, instead of being diminished by the lapse of three centuries, must continue and increase while the great truths, involving the present and future interests of mankind, which he so lucidly and energetically enforced, shall be incorporated with human enlightenment and progress. The results of his indefatigable labours, as published t

2 minute read

Read Chapter

PREFACE.

PREFACE.

It was but a few days before his death, and in the course of one of the latest conversations handed down to us by Theodore Beza, that Calvin, pointing with failing hand to his most precious furniture, his manuscripts, and the archives of the correspondence that, during a quarter of a century, he had kept up with the most illustrious personages of Europe, requested that these memorials might be carefully preserved, and that a selection from his letters, made by some of his friends, should be pres

15 minute read

Read Chapter

Calvin at the University of Orleans—his early friendships—he is recalled to Noyon by the illness of his father.

Calvin at the University of Orleans—his early friendships—he is recalled to Noyon by the illness of his father.

Noyon , 14th May 1528 . As I do not think that you have hitherto been correctly informed of the motives and peculiar circumstances which have brought my punctuality in question, you must at least be willing to admit, that until now you have known me to be a person rather overmuch attentive, not to say troublesome, in the frequency of my correspondence. Nor has my fidelity been so sorely endangered as to leave me altogether inexcusable. For after calm consideration, I came to this conclusion in m

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Calvin in Paris—Nicolas Cop—the two friends visit a monastery.

Calvin in Paris—Nicolas Cop—the two friends visit a monastery.

Paris , 27th June 1529 . Tired with the journey, the day after our drive hither we could not stir a foot out of doors. For the next four days, while I still felt unable to move about, the whole of that time wore away in friendly salutations. On the Lord's day, I repaired to the monastery with Cop, [18] who had consented to accompany me, that according to your advice, I might fix a day with the nuns on which your sister should take the vows. I was told, in reply to my inquiry, that, along with so

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Thanks to Francis Daniel—salutations to Melchior Wolmar—various messages.

Thanks to Francis Daniel—salutations to Melchior Wolmar—various messages.

Meaux , 6th September 1529 . I owe you thanks for having omitted no diligence in the care of our affairs, which I will not allow to pass unrequited when occasion shall offer. For I think it will so happen that at least I may be able to return a favour of the like kind, nor even then shall my name be expunged from your day-book; what is more, there is scarcely a single page that does not state me as your debtor. But if you think me worth the money, I make myself over to you in payment, with the u

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Domestic intelligence—departure to Italy of the brother of Francis Daniel.

Domestic intelligence—departure to Italy of the brother of Francis Daniel.

From the Acropolis , [22] 15th January 1530 . It was not in my power to reply sooner to your brother Robert's letter, because it was only delivered to me about the middle of November, and shortly after I had to undertake a journey of a fortnight. The illness of the messenger, who had been laid up for about twelve days with a dangerous complaint at Lyons, hindered the letter from reaching me sooner. Meanwhile the fair-time had gone by; which season having past, I had no opportunity of despatching

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Calvin's first work—Commentary on Seneca's Treatise, "De Clementia."

Calvin's first work—Commentary on Seneca's Treatise, "De Clementia."

Paris , 23d May 1532 . Well, at length the die is cast. My Commentaries on the Books of Seneca, "De Clementia," [24] have been printed, but at my own expense, and have drawn from me more money than you can well suppose. At present, I am using every endeavour to collect some of it back. I have stirred up some of the professors of this city to make use of them in lecturing. In the University of Bourges I have induced a friend to do this from the pulpit by a public lecture. You can also help me not

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Calvin despatches copies of the Treatise "De Clementia" to several persons—looks for lodgings in Paris.

Calvin despatches copies of the Treatise "De Clementia" to several persons—looks for lodgings in Paris.

Paris , [1532.] Both of your letters have reached me almost on the same subject, and nearly in the same words. I have attended to your commission about the Bibles, in procuring which there was more need of taking some trouble than of money. When I pack up my things I will put them along with my baggage. The affair is of that kind which I suppose may be deferred until that time. As for the rest, you must help me in your turn. The Books of Seneca on Clemency are at last printed: they are at my own

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Recommendation of a French refugee in Strasbourg, who had been falsely accused of holding the doctrines of the Anabaptists.

Recommendation of a French refugee in Strasbourg, who had been falsely accused of holding the doctrines of the Anabaptists.

Noyon , 4th September 1532 . The grace and peace of the Lord be with you by the mercy of God and the victory of Christ. Leisure to write would not have weighed as an argument to persuade me, any more than good advice, unless it had seemed right to deplore in a few words the unhappy lot of this excellent brother, which some friends of undoubted faith and credit have represented to me by letter. For whether you bear with me in my grief and sympathy, or whether I further him in his suit, I could no

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Various communications—a new work put forth.

Various communications—a new work put forth.

[ Paris , 1533.] I send you these collectanea of late events, on this condition, that, according to the best of your faith and duty, they may circulate among the friends, whom also you will respectfully salute for me, except Framberg, whom I have resolved to tame by my silence, seeing that I have not been able to coax him by gentleness, nor to get anything out of him by scolding. Besides, what is worse than all, when his brother came hither, he did not even send me a single greeting by him. I wi

1 minute read

Read Chapter

The Reformation in Paris—rage of the Sorbonne—satirical Comedy directed against the Queen of Navarre—intervention of Francis I.—deliberation of the Four Faculties—revocation of the censure pronounced against the book entitled "The Mirror of the Sinful Soul."

The Reformation in Paris—rage of the Sorbonne—satirical Comedy directed against the Queen of Navarre—intervention of Francis I.—deliberation of the Four Faculties—revocation of the censure pronounced against the book entitled "The Mirror of the Sinful Soul."

Paris , [ October ] 1533. Although I have beside me a forest of materials which furnish most satisfactory evidence of what is written, yet I will restrain my pen, that you may have rather the leading features than a long narrative; to which were I to give way, it would grow almost into a goodly volume. On the first of October, at which time of the year the boys who pass out of the grammar class into that of the dialectics, are wont, for the sake of practice, to act a play, they performed one in

6 minute read

Read Chapter

Retirement of Calvin to Angoulême.

Retirement of Calvin to Angoulême.

Doxopolis , [1534.] Without having anything particular to write I can at any time play the gossip with you, and so fill up a letter. Yet why should I intrude upon you with my complainings? The chief matter which, in my opinion, is of sufficient interest to be communicated to you at present is that I am getting on well, and taking into account the constitutional weakness and infirmity which you are well aware of, am also making some progress in study. Certainly, also, the kindness of my patron ma

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Calvin in Basle—revision of the Bible of Robert Olivetan—treatise on the Immortality of the Soul.

Calvin in Basle—revision of the Bible of Robert Olivetan—treatise on the Immortality of the Soul.

Basle , 11th September , [1534. [36] ] When our friend Olivetan [37] had intimated, by the letters which he wrote about the time of his departure, that he had put off his intended publication of the New Testament to another time, it appeared to me that I might make the revision which had been promised at my leisure, and reserve it to another time. Meanwhile other studies engaged my attention, and I thought no more of the matter, or rather sank down into my wonted languor. As yet, I have scarcely

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Calvin in Geneva—translation into French of the "Christian Institutes"—disputation of Lausanne—establishment of the doctrines of the Reformation in the Pays de Vaud.

Calvin in Geneva—translation into French of the "Christian Institutes"—disputation of Lausanne—establishment of the doctrines of the Reformation in the Pays de Vaud.

Lausanne , 13th October 1536 . That you may not, according to old use and wont, lay a long and clamorous accusation against my indolence, seeing that whole three months have passed away during which you have received not a single letter from me, accept now a brief statement as to the state of matters upon the whole. For some days I was detained at Geneva by the brethren, until they extracted from me a promise to return; then after that, I brought back my relative Artois [41] to Basle, and gave o

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Calvin and Caroli encounter each other—prayers for the dead—the Genevese clergy accused of Arianism—need of a synod.

Calvin and Caroli encounter each other—prayers for the dead—the Genevese clergy accused of Arianism—need of a synod.

Geneva , [ February 1537 . [46] ] Grace to you and peace from the Lord. It must be already well known to you how much mischief Caroli [47] has of late stirred up; he has devised a method, forsooth, by which it is possible to aid the dead by prayer, not that their sins may be remitted, but that they may be raised up as expeditiously as possible—certainly a piece of very necessary information, especially at the present time, when we are pressed by so many difficulties. The ambitious man wished to

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Preaching of the Gospel at Besançon—ecclesiastical intelligence—discouragement of Farel—necessity for the return of Viret to Geneva.

Preaching of the Gospel at Besançon—ecclesiastical intelligence—discouragement of Farel—necessity for the return of Viret to Geneva.

Geneva , 23d April 1537 . As I had no particular matter which occasioned my writing to you at present, so I had not intended to write if Farel had not thought otherwise. I have, therefore, taken up the pen rather in compliance with his request, than because I considered it to be necessary. For I have no doubt whatever of his having embraced everything in his letter which was likely to suggest itself to my recollection. When a certain person of our acquaintance had brought us word, that he had la

3 minute read

Read Chapter

The nature of the controversy between Calvin and Caroli clearly laid open—Synod of Lausanne—Caroli is condemned, and the teaching of Calvin and Farel solemnly approved.

The nature of the controversy between Calvin and Caroli clearly laid open—Synod of Lausanne—Caroli is condemned, and the teaching of Calvin and Farel solemnly approved.

Berne , [ May 1537 .] Although the tricks and wiles of Satan are altogether marvellous and not easy to believe, those, I mean, by which he closely assails us in our work, of which we have had some bypast experience, the malicious craftiness wherewith he has of late assaulted us by his apt tool Caroli, [54] has never in the least beguiled us. For we had not only foreseen all this sort of warfare long ago; we were even prepared with our utmost energy to maintain the conflict. When first we heard,

6 minute read

Read Chapter

Persecution in France—request addressed to the Seigneury of Basle in favour of the faithful of the Church at Nismes.

Persecution in France—request addressed to the Seigneury of Basle in favour of the faithful of the Church at Nismes.

Geneva , 13th November 1537 . The urgent business on account of which we have thought it right to send this person by express to you may be stated in few words. A new outbreak of the cruel rage of the ungodly has burst forth at Nismes, as the place is now called, no mean city, a town of Languedoc, against the unhappy brethren who reside there, scattered up and down, and that at a time when we might have suspected nothing of the kind. Not very long ago we had obtained letters from the town counci

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Departure of Louis du Tillet from Geneva—regret of Calvin—controversy between the two friends regarding the character of the Church of Jesus Christ.

Departure of Louis du Tillet from Geneva—regret of Calvin—controversy between the two friends regarding the character of the Church of Jesus Christ.

From Villefranche , [63] 31st January [1538.] Monsieur ,—Eight days before I received the letters which you left at your departure to be forwarded to me, John had arrived, [64] so that some weeks before I had any news of you the rumour of your departure had taken wing hither. Although such a state of uncertainty was very great occasion of annoyance to me, nevertheless, I held my judgment in suspense as much as was possible; what troubled and tormented me most was the fear I entertained of having

7 minute read

Read Chapter

State of the Church at Geneva—wish for the union of the Reformed Churches—mention of Luther.

State of the Church at Geneva—wish for the union of the Reformed Churches—mention of Luther.

Geneva , 21st February 1538 . Grace to you and peace, from God the Father and from Christ the Lord, most respected and learned brother. Were I to begin to describe to you at length the full narrative of our most wretched condition, a long history must be unfolded by me. For I call ours the trouble which for a long time has pressed, and which now severely presses upon that Church over which the Lord has been pleased to set us. But because there is not enough of leisure at present for explaining e

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Synod of Zurich—attempt at reconciliation between the banished ministers and the town of Geneva.

Synod of Zurich—attempt at reconciliation between the banished ministers and the town of Geneva.

Berne , 20th May 1538 . If I have hitherto deferred writing, it has been because everything was so very much in suspense, that it was not possible to write anything for certain. And now, as the narrative of all that has happened [at Geneva] could not be given by us without complaining, we only desire to acquaint you, that the treatment which we have experienced, though in opposition to all our wishes, has nevertheless been in accordance with our expectation. Besides the very irksome delay of a f

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Arrival of Farel and Calvin at Basle.

Arrival of Farel and Calvin at Basle.

Basle , [ towards the end of May 1538 .] We have at length reached Basle, but well soaked with the rain and completely spent and worn out. Nor was our journey free from perils, for in truth one of us was almost carried away by the swollen currents; but we have experienced more tender usage from the impetuous river than from our fellow-men, for since, contrary to all right and reason, they had decided that we should travel on foot, that also has been complied with through the mercy of the Lord in

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Journey of Calvin to Strasbourg—project of a new assembly at Zurich—policy of the Bernese—in his retirement Calvin breathes freely—news from France.

Journey of Calvin to Strasbourg—project of a new assembly at Zurich—policy of the Bernese—in his retirement Calvin breathes freely—news from France.

Strasbourg , 10th July 1538 . I hope, sir, you will not take in ill part that John [77] is gone away thitherward to you without my letter, for it grieved me to write to you, having so many things to communicate, without having time to make at least a partial communication. On the other hand, it was not easy for me to impart such information to you by halves, without at once entering fully into the details. The complete declaration was by no means impossible, but I was afraid that it would scarce

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Farel called as minister to the Church of Neuchatel—sad condition of the Church at Geneva—uncertainty of Calvin—Bucer's urgency to draw him to Strasbourg.

Farel called as minister to the Church of Neuchatel—sad condition of the Church at Geneva—uncertainty of Calvin—Bucer's urgency to draw him to Strasbourg.

Basle , 4th August 1538 . The grace of the Lord be with you. The person who had brought back the horse, promised that he would return after three days. When, after the lapse of five days, I had ceased to expect him, I began to look about for a messenger. For I knew that as soon as my silence began to appear to you to be longer than it ought, you would impute it to carelessness as well as indolence. But while these were my thoughts, lo, the messenger presented himself upon the spot, who informed

4 minute read

Read Chapter

New efforts of the ministers of Strasbourg to attract Calvin thither—the plague at Basle—detail of the death of a nephew of Farel.

New efforts of the ministers of Strasbourg to attract Calvin thither—the plague at Basle—detail of the death of a nephew of Farel.

Basle , 20th August [1538.] The grace of the Lord be with you. After frequent perusal of your letter at length I perceived my own obtuseness, who could be so much bewildered about the rank of Count John, as if, indeed, there could have been any one more competent to deal with the matter than your neighbour. Now my wonder ceases; for there has been a Helen in the strife? but well hath the Lord cared for the interests of the Church in not permitting him to fall a victim to her seductions. Explain

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Calvin at Strasbourg—negotiations between Bucer and the magistrates of Geneva—first preaching of Calvin in the French Church—Anabaptists of Metz.

Calvin at Strasbourg—negotiations between Bucer and the magistrates of Geneva—first preaching of Calvin in the French Church—Anabaptists of Metz.

Strasbourg , [ September 1538. ] My departure from Basle was so hurried and disorderly, that I brought away with me, stuffed aside in the innumerable travelling-pouches of the brain, the letter which I promised would be left for you; nor indeed was there at the time, anything that required my writing sooner. Three days after my arrival a messenger presented himself, and there was already somewhat worth communicating. But as I was afraid to run the risk of sending my letter by that channel, I cho

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Letter of consolation and advice addressed to the Church at Geneva, deprived of her faithful pastor—testimonies of his innocence—confidence in God—trust for the future.

Letter of consolation and advice addressed to the Church at Geneva, deprived of her faithful pastor—testimonies of his innocence—confidence in God—trust for the future.

From Strasbourg , this 1st of October 1538 . To my dearly-beloved brethren in our Lord, who are the relics of the dispersion of the Church of Geneva. The mercy of God our Father, and the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, be continually multiplied to you by the communication of the Holy Spirit. My Brethren ,—I have restrained myself from writing to you until this present, in the hope that the letter of our brother Farel, who had taken upon him that charge for both, would prove sufficient; and also

10 minute read

Read Chapter

Conferences of Basle—absence of the theologians of Zurich and of Berne—the minister Konzen—complaints against Bucer—a wish for the establishment of Ecclesiastical discipline—celebration of the Supper in the French Church of Strasbourg—the news of Germany and the Netherlands—question addressed to Melanchthon—domestic affairs.

Conferences of Basle—absence of the theologians of Zurich and of Berne—the minister Konzen—complaints against Bucer—a wish for the establishment of Ecclesiastical discipline—celebration of the Supper in the French Church of Strasbourg—the news of Germany and the Netherlands—question addressed to Melanchthon—domestic affairs.

[ October 1538. [94] ] Grace to you and peace in the Lord. Yes, indeed, I do very much rejoice that the marriage of Grynée happened at the time when so many and such weighty matters kept you necessarily at home. For the expected conferential meeting did not after all take place, [95] and after two days our friends returned. Yea, forsooth, and the Zurichers had scented out what Grynée would be at; therefore, having promised that they would be present on the day appointed, they managed somehow to

9 minute read

Read Chapter

Reply to doubts as to the lawfulness of his call—inward assurance of his calling—declines the kind offer of Louis du Tillet—appeals to the tribunal of God from the accusation of schism charged on him by his friend.

Reply to doubts as to the lawfulness of his call—inward assurance of his calling—declines the kind offer of Louis du Tillet—appeals to the tribunal of God from the accusation of schism charged on him by his friend.

Strasbourg , 20th October 1538 . Prolonged and lengthened as the time has been during which our Lord has made me feel the exhortations and remonstrances which are contained in your letter, I cannot but take them in good part, unless, indeed, I would give the lie to my own conscience. I learn therefrom, that in the dealings which our Lord has taken with me, I should find both material and occasion for the acknowledgment of my faults. Neither am I content to examine myself only and call them to mi

7 minute read

Read Chapter

Death of Courault—Calvin's discouragement and trust in God—answers a question of Saunier regarding the Supper—the faithful at Geneva exhorted not to separate from the new preachers—affectionate advice given to Farel.

Death of Courault—Calvin's discouragement and trust in God—answers a question of Saunier regarding the Supper—the faithful at Geneva exhorted not to separate from the new preachers—affectionate advice given to Farel.

Strasbourg , 24th October 1538 . The death of Courault has so overwhelmed me, that I can set no bounds to my grief. [105] None of my daily occupations can so avail to engage my mind as that they do not seem to turn upon that one thought. Distress and wretchedness during the day seems only to prepare a lodging for the more painful and excruciating thoughts of the night. It is not merely the want of sleep, to which custom has so inured me, by which I am harassed, but I am utterly exhausted by thes

7 minute read

Read Chapter

Second edition of the "Institution of a Christian"—death of Robert Olivetan—state of religion in Germany—first lectures of Calvin at Strasbourg.

Second edition of the "Institution of a Christian"—death of Robert Olivetan—state of religion in Germany—first lectures of Calvin at Strasbourg.

Month of January 1539. The grace of the Lord be with you, most sound-hearted brother. You would have received a longer letter from me, had not grief of mind so distracted me that I had neither heart nor hand capable of discharging duty. When I thought that the edition of my work was quietly going forward, [108] lo and behold! a copy is forwarded to me by my brother in the same state in which I had sent it; therefore it must be put off to the next fair-time. This kindness has been repaid to me by

4 minute read

Read Chapter

Fruitless efforts for the union of the two Churches—synod of Zurich—Bullinger's distrust of Bucer—parallel between Luther and Zuingli—Calvin thinks of marrying—news of Germany—policy of the ecclesiastical Electors—French Church of Strasbourg—conversion of two Anabaptists.

Fruitless efforts for the union of the two Churches—synod of Zurich—Bullinger's distrust of Bucer—parallel between Luther and Zuingli—Calvin thinks of marrying—news of Germany—policy of the ecclesiastical Electors—French Church of Strasbourg—conversion of two Anabaptists.

Strasbourg , 28th February [1539.] I have carefully explained to the brethren the matters which you had committed to me on the part of your presbytery. They both welcomed and received your admonitions with a very cordial and attentive hearing, for they clearly perceived and understood the motives from whence they proceeded, and that the dangers which alarm you are not imaginary. They will therefore endeavour, so far as lies in their power, in troublous times like the present, that your warnings

8 minute read

Read Chapter

Excuses his long silence—evidences of brotherly affection—justifies Bucer—his desire for the union of the Church of Zurich with that of Strasbourg.

Excuses his long silence—evidences of brotherly affection—justifies Bucer—his desire for the union of the Church of Zurich with that of Strasbourg.

Strasbourg , 12th March [1539.] Grace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Respected Brother ,—I scarce know how it has occurred, that for nearly a whole year and a half since I withdrew hither I should never have written to you, when it was so often my mind to do so; when there was no want of somewhat to write about; and more than once an occasion presented itself for doing so. But as for the first few months I had scarcely thought of it, and thus already some time had been all

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Departure of Calvin for the Assembly of Frankfort—the question of Ecclesiastical property—news of Geneva—opening of the religious conferences at Frankfort—disposition of the Roman Catholic princes and Protestants in Germany—Policy of Charles V.—Reformation in England—remarkable judgment on Henry VIII.

Departure of Calvin for the Assembly of Frankfort—the question of Ecclesiastical property—news of Geneva—opening of the religious conferences at Frankfort—disposition of the Roman Catholic princes and Protestants in Germany—Policy of Charles V.—Reformation in England—remarkable judgment on Henry VIII.

Strasbourg , 15th March 1539 . The day after your last letter save one reached me, I set out on the road for Frankfort. [119] So hurried was my departure that there was no time to write to you; what so frequently happens in the event of sudden resolves. It never entered into my mind to undertake that journey until the day before I undertook it. When, however, I had received Bucer's letter, in which he informed me that he could effect nothing in the affair of our brethren, the desire instantly se

19 minute read

Read Chapter

Conclusion of the Assembly at Frankfort—attitude of the Protestant princes—conversations between Calvin and Melanchthon on ecclesiastical discipline—opinion of the latter—of Capito—various details.

Conclusion of the Assembly at Frankfort—attitude of the Protestant princes—conversations between Calvin and Melanchthon on ecclesiastical discipline—opinion of the latter—of Capito—various details.

Written in the month of March 1539. Fearing lest the further delay of my writing to you might be inconvenient, I chose rather to forward a part or portion of my letter than to keep you waiting until Michael should arrive. Now, therefore, I will take up the thread of my narrative; but before I come to the conference with Philip, I shall briefly explain what has been the progress of affairs since that time. The Emperor's ambassador, notwithstanding all that has occurred, has ventured to propose su

6 minute read

Read Chapter

Numerous occupations of Calvin—news of Germany—firmness of the Senate of Strasbourg.

Numerous occupations of Calvin—news of Germany—firmness of the Senate of Strasbourg.

Strasbourg , 20th April 1539 . I do not remember throughout this whole year a single day which was more completely engaged with various occupations. For when the present messenger wished to carry along with him the beginning of my book, [145] there were about twenty leaves which it required me to revise. In addition, there was the public lecture, and I had also to preach; four letters were also to be written; some disputes to settle, and to reply to more than ten interruptions in the meantime. Y

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Union of the Swiss Churches—first steps for the recall of Calvin to Geneva—some details concerning his ministry and his straitened circumstances—Lutheran ceremonies—the Church property—renewal of the League of Smalkald—constancy of the German Princes—example of fidelity to the cause of Christ on the part of the Town of Strasbourg.

Union of the Swiss Churches—first steps for the recall of Calvin to Geneva—some details concerning his ministry and his straitened circumstances—Lutheran ceremonies—the Church property—renewal of the League of Smalkald—constancy of the German Princes—example of fidelity to the cause of Christ on the part of the Town of Strasbourg.

Strasbourg , April 1539 . I begin now to entertain greater hope than formerly of that accommodation in matters of religion, such as it may be. [148] Whenever I took into account with what sort of men we would have to treat, and how very slippery and unsteady we have found their promises to be, I came then to the conclusion that such a reconciliation would be of little or no avail to us. As to rules or conditions fixed beforehand and agreed to on both sides, even although they were not on other g

10 minute read

Read Chapter

Ecclesiastical news of Switzerland—destitution of the minister Megander—complaints addressed to Bucer—further projects of marriage on the part of Calvin.

Ecclesiastical news of Switzerland—destitution of the minister Megander—complaints addressed to Bucer—further projects of marriage on the part of Calvin.

Strasbourg , 19th May 1539 . Health to you, my excellent and most agreeable brother. What you have intimated by letter was very welcome in the way of information, even although it afforded little cause of gladness; [153] for not to be in ignorance is a help, and to know what we are about is of advantage. It is of no consequence, however, to reply to each single point. I did not venture to conclude anything concerning Claude, that my conjecture might not deceive me. I can now judge from the begin

4 minute read

Read Chapter

Recommends anew the counsel of peace and brotherly agreement to the Church of Geneva.

Recommends anew the counsel of peace and brotherly agreement to the Church of Geneva.

Strasbourg , 25th June 1539 . The mercy of our God and grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, be multiplied to you by the communication of his Holy Spirit. Nothing, most beloved brethren, has caused me greater sorrow, since those disturbances which had so sadly scattered and almost entirely overthrown your Church, than when I understood your strivings and contentions with those ministers who succeeded us. For although the disorders which were inseparably connected with their first arrival among you, mi

12 minute read

Read Chapter

Journey of Farel to Strasbourg—scanty remuneration of Calvin—sale of his books.

Journey of Farel to Strasbourg—scanty remuneration of Calvin—sale of his books.

Strasbourg , 27th July [1539.] We have nothing new since you left us, except that, on the self-same day, about three hours after your departure, the directors resolved to augment my salary. They proposed to give me a stipend of a hundred florins, on the condition that I should resign that which I had formerly received; but when it came the length of the college of the canons, they objected against it the royal caveat, by which manœuvre they have excluded me. Thus am I made none the richer. I sen

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Reconciliation of Farel with Caroli—intercession of the Senate of Strasbourg in favour of the French Protestants—answer of Calvin to the letter of Cardinal Sadolet.

Reconciliation of Farel with Caroli—intercession of the Senate of Strasbourg in favour of the French Protestants—answer of Calvin to the letter of Cardinal Sadolet.

In the month of September 1539. [159] Yesterday, Henry came hither after supper time. As soon as I rose from table I went to Bucer, read over to him your letter, which made him very glad, especially because he could perceive from it your great leniency towards Caroli. He at once acknowledged that he could scarcely have felt himself able to treat that person with so much clemency. Should he visit Basle there is considerable risk of his being somewhat more severely handled by Grynée, as both Viret

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Caroli at Strasbourg—Proceedings of Sturm and Bucer for the reconciliation with Calvin.

Caroli at Strasbourg—Proceedings of Sturm and Bucer for the reconciliation with Calvin.

Strasbourg , 8th October 1539 . Whenever of late a new occasion of writing presented itself, I wished to avoid writing until the affair of Caroli, [163] the matter in hand which detained our friends, might be brought to some conclusion. My concern about it kept me intensely anxious. Bucer did not think it fitting that I should be present at any of the proceedings until they had arrived at some hope of agreement, or that at least some inclination thereto had become apparent on either side. On my

9 minute read

Read Chapter

Farther details of the reconciliation of Calvin with Caroli—the minister Alexandre—a lecture of Bucer—negotiations of the Protestant Princes of Germany—their answer to Henry VIII.—French translation of the Epistle to Sadolet.

Farther details of the reconciliation of Calvin with Caroli—the minister Alexandre—a lecture of Bucer—negotiations of the Protestant Princes of Germany—their answer to Henry VIII.—French translation of the Epistle to Sadolet.

Strasbourg , 27th October 1539 . Pardon me, my most amiable brother, for not having written to you since that discontented letter [167] which lately had been forced out of me by my ill-humour in its first fervour. I do not quite remember what I may have written. I am aware, however, that I had not sufficiently softened the expressions, because this single solace of my grief remained, to expostulate with you for having created such annoyance to me through your extreme facility. Now, you excuse yo

9 minute read

Read Chapter

Caroli—encounter between William du Bellay and the Constable de Montmorency—preparation for an approaching Assembly in Germany—negotiations with the King of England—salutations addressed by Luther to Calvin—hope of an accommodation between the Swiss and German Churches.

Caroli—encounter between William du Bellay and the Constable de Montmorency—preparation for an approaching Assembly in Germany—negotiations with the King of England—salutations addressed by Luther to Calvin—hope of an accommodation between the Swiss and German Churches.

Strasbourg , 20th November [1539.] For a long time I have been eagerly on the lookout for your opinion about the minutes of reconciliation with Caroli. That personage has not returned, and there need be little doubt that he seeks to nestle in that quarter; and assuredly it was no bad determination for him to arrive at. The kitchen of a courtier smokes very freely, and you are aware he has a quick scent in that direction. I am afraid, however, that he may not long continue with those who do not l

7 minute read

Read Chapter

Persecutions in France—policy of Francis I. and Charles V.—ecclesiastical discipline—University regulations at Strasbourg—illness of Farel.

Persecutions in France—policy of Francis I. and Charles V.—ecclesiastical discipline—University regulations at Strasbourg—illness of Farel.

Strasbourg , 31st December 1539 . To-day, immediately after sermon, Fatin [184] intimated that he was about to leave, when I had been invited to sup with a friend; whence I returned long after eight o'clock, much refreshed. You must, therefore, expect a letter from me, as from one who am scarcely sufficiently free and disengaged for writing. I am sorry that that holy brother is deceased, as becomes me. Since, however, it has so happened, I rejoice that the messenger has confirmed your letter abo

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Further mention of Caroli—discussion with Hermann the Anabaptist—good understanding of Charles V. and Francis I.—alarm of the German Princes—some detail of the propositions addressed to Calvin.

Further mention of Caroli—discussion with Hermann the Anabaptist—good understanding of Charles V. and Francis I.—alarm of the German Princes—some detail of the propositions addressed to Calvin.

Strasbourg , 6th February 1540 . I entreat you, my dear brother, when I expostulate with you, chide you, get warm with you, accuse you, that you may take it all the same as if you were dealing thus with yourself. Concerning Caroli, the Lord will give counsel, in whose case, if there has been anything sinful on our part, the Lord can correct it. Our friends also acknowledge, that they were more lenient than they ought to have been. But because there is not among us that severity of discipline whi

6 minute read

Read Chapter

Impressions of Calvin on his recall to Geneva—rigorous application of discipline in his church—news of Germany, of France, and of England.

Impressions of Calvin on his recall to Geneva—rigorous application of discipline in his church—news of Germany, of France, and of England.

Strasbourg , 29th March 1540 . I have already waited so long for your letter that I may well doubt whether I ought to wait any longer. My anxious wish to hear from you kept alive my expectation, and shall even yet sustain my hope for some few days; but if at length my hope shall give way, you will see how indignantly I have borne this disappointment; and your neglect is all the less to be tolerated, because Geneva at this present time affords you such abundant material for correspondence. Du Tai

4 minute read

Read Chapter

Reconciliation of parties at Geneva—insufficiency of the ministers of that Church—Policy of Charles V.—courageous attitude of the Protestant Princes—favourable news from England—cruel persecutions in France—Ecclesiastical discipline in the French Church at Strasbourg.

Reconciliation of parties at Geneva—insufficiency of the ministers of that Church—Policy of Charles V.—courageous attitude of the Protestant Princes—favourable news from England—cruel persecutions in France—Ecclesiastical discipline in the French Church at Strasbourg.

Strasbourg , Month of May 1540 . Because I promised to write you fully about every thing, in order that my promise at least in some measure may be fulfilled, I have set aside the whole of this day to you. You will receive, therefore, full and weighty performance, unless perhaps unexpectedly I shall be called away. Concerning the state of the Church at Geneva, we can discourse more at large, when you shall come hither. That news was indeed most delightfully welcome, when I heard that a stop had b

14 minute read

Read Chapter

Excuses for his silence—sad news from France—repugnance of Calvin to return to Geneva—his comparative estimate of Capito, Zuingli, Luther, and Œcolampadius.

Excuses for his silence—sad news from France—repugnance of Calvin to return to Geneva—his comparative estimate of Capito, Zuingli, Luther, and Œcolampadius.

Strasbourg , 19th May 1540 . At length somewhat has been gained by my expostulation, for I have in some measure broken that unkind silence of so many months; but I do not take it so well, that when you ought plainly to have sought pardon, you chose rather to make a return in kind; for you make out that we are equally to blame except in this one point, that when both had come short in duty, I seized the opportunity and was the first to write. You thought, forsooth, to get out of the scrape in thi

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Preparations for the Assembly of Haguenau—symptoms of misunderstanding between Charles V. and Francis I.—severe judgment of Henry VIII.—evils produced in the Church by the absence of discipline—various details.

Preparations for the Assembly of Haguenau—symptoms of misunderstanding between Charles V. and Francis I.—severe judgment of Henry VIII.—evils produced in the Church by the absence of discipline—various details.

Strasbourg , 21st June 1540 . After Ferdinand waited about twelve days at Haguenau [207] for the princes, a few of them came who either have the wish to reform matters, or to prove their submission to the Emperor. From among the Electors, he could not succeed in drawing forth a single one except the Elector-Palatine. He of Mayence, as I hear, excused himself more than once, that is, he stoutly refused. The Electors of Cologne and Treves stood in doubt. The Elector of Saxony wished to have it dis

8 minute read

Read Chapter

Review of the Conferences of Haguenau—the state of parties in Germany.

Review of the Conferences of Haguenau—the state of parties in Germany.

Strasbourg , 28th July 1540 . Monsieur du Tailly ,—Owing to my having put off writing to you my last letters until we should have more certain news of the Assembly of Haguenau to send you, I was unwilling to let this bearer depart without a letter, albeit the matter has not yet been brought to a conclusion. I shall, therefore, briefly report progress up to this present time. You are aware that King Ferdinand had summoned the princes of his party some time before those of our side, for the purpos

6 minute read

Read Chapter

Answer to the complaints of Caroli—refuses to grant to him the professorial chair unless he repents of his past offences.

Answer to the complaints of Caroli—refuses to grant to him the professorial chair unless he repents of his past offences.

Strasbourg , 10th August 1540 . Grace to you and peace from the Lord, whose Spirit can give sound advice to you and a right will, and also to us. I would rather have preferred that you had come hither to confer with us about reconciliation face to face, than that you should have tried it by writing, and especially such a letter as yours. You are very anxious to shew that you did not excite disturbance in the Church without good reason: as if indeed any honest cause could ever be advanced for dis

7 minute read

Read Chapter

Deputations sent to France and into England—the Edict of Fontainbleau.

Deputations sent to France and into England—the Edict of Fontainbleau.

Strasbourg , 8th October 1540 . When your letter arrived, the second post had already been despatched to our princes, by which our friends asked for that embassy about which they had formerly treated. Next, that another also be sent to the King of England, who keeps two of the bishops [219] and many of the brethren detained in prison, because they have refused to sign his insane decrees. You need not entertain any doubt, my dear Viret, that our Senate lays the matter thoroughly to heart. I speak

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Sickness of Calvin—preparation for departure to the Diet at Worms—letter to the Queen of Navarre on behalf of the faithful persecuted in France.

Sickness of Calvin—preparation for departure to the Diet at Worms—letter to the Queen of Navarre on behalf of the faithful persecuted in France.

Strasbourg , October 1540 . When your letter was first brought to me I could scarcely lift a finger, on account of bodily weakness, and therefore reply to yours somewhat later than I ought. Since that time to the present such has been my state of doubt and hesitation, that it was impossible for me to write any thing for certain; it seemed, indeed, as if it had been so ordered on purpose that our wedlock [221] might not be over joyous, that we might not exceed all bounds, that the Lord thus thwar

7 minute read

Read Chapter

Excuses himself from returning to Geneva by the necessity of his attendance at the Diet of Worms.

Excuses himself from returning to Geneva by the necessity of his attendance at the Diet of Worms.

Strasbourg , Oct. 23, 1540 . My very worthy, noble, and honourable Lords ,—Albeit that, besides the letters which you have been pleased to send me, you had given charge to the bearer to declare more fully by word of mouth your wish, and that he has not found me in the place where he thought to find me, so as to deliver his message, [226] I have, nevertheless, sufficiently understood by them the scope of your intention. I reply, I can testify before God that I hold your Church in such considerati

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Exposition of the motives which prevent him from returning to Geneva.

Exposition of the motives which prevent him from returning to Geneva.

Strasbourg , 27th October 1540 . I have no doubt whatever that you have taken good care to apologize for me to those brethren who advised that I should return to Geneva, that I have not replied to them. For you are well aware how on that account I was thrown for two days into such perplexity and trouble of mind that I was scarcely half myself. Some time after that, however, that I might humour you, I made an attempt to write somewhat to them in common; but when I took into account what usually h

6 minute read

Read Chapter

Calvin at Worms—he excuses himself to the magistrates of Geneva for his inability to comply with their request, on account of the mission with which he had been charged into Germany in the general interest of the Church.

Calvin at Worms—he excuses himself to the magistrates of Geneva for his inability to comply with their request, on account of the mission with which he had been charged into Germany in the general interest of the Church.

Worms , 12th November 1540 . My very worthy, potent, and honourable Lords ,—I have received the letters which you have been pleased to write me; have heard, at the same time, the statement of your ambassadors conformable thereto. Were it only on account of the courtesy and the consideration of every kind which you shew towards me, I could no otherwise discharge myself of my duty, except in striving to the utmost of my power to agree to your request. And besides, it is so reasonable, that it ough

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Details of the interview of Calvin with the Deputies from Geneva.

Details of the interview of Calvin with the Deputies from Geneva.

At Worms , 13th November 1540 . Were you, my dear Farel, situated as I am, somewhat, perchance, of that hesitation which so intensely afflicts me would keep you also not a little anxious. For my perturbation is not confined to myself only; those also who labour with me, for many and good reasons, are not free from anxiety, while, at the same time, they are men who are not wont to be alarmed for nothing. You are the only persons who determine without any controversy what I ought to do. But since

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Testimony rendered to the French Church at Strasbourg and to the pastor in charge of it during the absence of Calvin—matters of advice.

Testimony rendered to the French Church at Strasbourg and to the pastor in charge of it during the absence of Calvin—matters of advice.

Worms , 26th November [1540.] I congratulate myself, and rejoice for the Church's sake rather than on your account, that all attend so regularly and hear sermon reverently; for it was my chief desire and prayer, when I was about to leave, that none of our brethren whom Christ ruled by my ministry might fall off from attendance on account of my absence, that nothing of that order might be put in peril wherewith the entireness of the flock of Christ is kept together in a body; besides, that compac

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Instructions regarding the Supper, and on various points of Ecclesiastical Discipline.

Instructions regarding the Supper, and on various points of Ecclesiastical Discipline.

Worms , 14th December 1540 . I am well pleased that you have delayed the holy Supper for another month, for at the present time you could not administer it without neglecting that order which, for very sufficient reasons, I earnestly desire to be carefully attended to. I am greatly delighted, according to what I hear, that our Church holds well together, so that no inconvenience is felt from my absence; in the midst of my annoyances, it is especially refreshing and consolatory. Although I only s

6 minute read

Read Chapter

Calvin sent to the Diet of Ratisbon—he excuses himself on that account from returning at that moment to Geneva—advices addressed to the magistrates of that town.

Calvin sent to the Diet of Ratisbon—he excuses himself on that account from returning at that moment to Geneva—advices addressed to the magistrates of that town.

From Strasbourg , this 19th February 1541 . Nobles, honourable and potent Lords ,—In furtherance of the answer made to your ambassadors by the members of the Council of this town, immediately upon our return from Worms, I have procured of them that they would take into their consideration the rendering assistance to your Church, as I ought to keep in mind that she must be duly provided. And if it had been thought good that I should go there, I would have set about my duty; for although the charg

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Anxiety on account of the Swiss Churches—approaching departure for Ratisbon—disputes between Berne and Geneva—calumnies directed against the Vaudois of Provence.

Anxiety on account of the Swiss Churches—approaching departure for Ratisbon—disputes between Berne and Geneva—calumnies directed against the Vaudois of Provence.

Strasbourg , 19th February 1541 . I was not a little delighted, my dear Farel, with your letter; nor did Bucer derive less pleasure than myself, because both of us could perceive that you did not omit a single point which could tend in any way to the preservation of a good understanding and agreement, and that you had laid bare to them that singular fervency of spirit and of charity, as well as of your anxious care for the Church, by which she ought to be stirred up to serious concern. If nothin

4 minute read

Read Chapter

New expression of the repugnances and terrors which Calvin feels in prospect of his returning to Geneva.

New expression of the repugnances and terrors which Calvin feels in prospect of his returning to Geneva.

Ulm , 1st March 1541 . When your letter was delivered to me, we were then ready for the journey, and I do not remember ever in my life a more noisy and troublesome outsetting; so, on that account, as I could not reply myself, I therefore left it in charge with Claude Feray, whom you have seen with me at Basle, and to my brother, to write to Farel and let him understand what were my thoughts. Having at length got an interval of leisure, though ever so small, I have felt desirous to write you whil

6 minute read

Read Chapter

Protests his devotedness to the Church of Geneva—oblivion of past injury.

Protests his devotedness to the Church of Geneva—oblivion of past injury.

Ulm , 1st March 1541 Your letter was delivered to me when we were just prepared and making ready to start upon our journey. [241] You will therefore excuse my having replied somewhat later than you may have expected. For the same reason I would wish that you may excuse this epistle, if it shall appear rather brief and confusedly put together, since it has to be written by fits and starts upon the journey. That you advise me to take upon myself the administration of the Church of Geneva, in so fa

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Calvin at Ratisbon—the plague at Strasbourg—grief of the Reformer—Preliminaries of the Diet—the German princes—the Italian prelates—Hungary—the Turk—Poland—state of opinion—inclinations of Charles V.—stayedness upon God.

Calvin at Ratisbon—the plague at Strasbourg—grief of the Reformer—Preliminaries of the Diet—the German princes—the Italian prelates—Hungary—the Turk—Poland—state of opinion—inclinations of Charles V.—stayedness upon God.

Ratisbon , 28th March 1541 . From the time of my arrival here I had not written to you, but had commissioned my friend Claude, that whatever news he might receive from me he should take care to forward to you; nor was there, indeed, anything worth your reading; and I was myself in expectation, first of all, of receiving a letter from you, which I would then reward with a like communication. In the meantime, while I wait for your letter, a distressing event is announced to me, that our dear frien

14 minute read

Read Chapter

Consolatory letter on the death of his son.

Consolatory letter on the death of his son.

Ratisbon , [ Month of April 1541 .] When I first received the intelligence of the death of Claude and of your son Louis, I was so utterly overpowered that for many days I was fit for nothing but to grieve; and albeit I was somehow upheld before the Lord by those aids wherewith he sustains our souls in affliction, among men, however, I was almost a nonentity; so far at least as regards my discharge of duty, I appeared to myself quite as unfit for it as if I had been half dead. On the one hand, I

13 minute read

Read Chapter

Affliction of Calvin—news of the Diet of Ratisbon—appointment of the theologians charged with the representation of the two parties—their reception by the Emperor—portrait of Julius Pflug, of Gropper, and of Eck.

Affliction of Calvin—news of the Diet of Ratisbon—appointment of the theologians charged with the representation of the two parties—their reception by the Emperor—portrait of Julius Pflug, of Gropper, and of Eck.

Ratisbon , 24th April 1541 . My last letter will have given you to understand clearly enough the state of affliction in which I then was. If on that account it has appeared somewhat fretful, you will impute it to my grief, which had made me more peevish than usual. Even yet, although I am recovering my composure by degrees, I still feel nothing more than a slight abatement of the pressure. Nay even, what one ought to feel shame in confessing, there is some such sort of consolation in grief, as t

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Request addressed by the ministers of the Church of Zurich to those of Strasbourg—Calvin promises to return to Geneva—message to Viret.

Request addressed by the ministers of the Church of Zurich to those of Strasbourg—Calvin promises to return to Geneva—message to Viret.

From Ratisbon , 4th May 1541 . Although I think that my former letters must have abundantly satisfied you, yet because a convenient opportunity was presented of writing to you by Frellon, [270] I was unwilling to forego it, especially since a new subject had occurred; for the Zurichers lately, as I hear, have earnestly requested the magistrates of Strasbourg to throw no obstacles in the way of my setting out, and have also solemnly conjured me in another letter, although I am only a private indi

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Results of the Diet of Ratisbon—conferences of the theologians—original sin—free-will—justification—impossibility of agreement in the sacrament of the Supper.

Results of the Diet of Ratisbon—conferences of the theologians—original sin—free-will—justification—impossibility of agreement in the sacrament of the Supper.

Ratisbon , 11th May 1541 . Though I find my prolonged stay here to be irksome, yet never shall I regret having come. Do you think me to be not in a sound state of mind when I say so? I am quite conscious of what I am saying; and that I do not speak unreasonably you shall understand when we meet. For the present, you can pick up a few crumbs, as much as you can, by way of narrative. Our friends in the commission have come to agreement on the doctrine of original sin without any difficulty; a disc

4 minute read

Read Chapter

Efforts of Bucer and of Melanchthon to effect a connection between the two Churches—formula of concord—feeling of Calvin on the subject.

Efforts of Bucer and of Melanchthon to effect a connection between the two Churches—formula of concord—feeling of Calvin on the subject.

12th May 1541. The messenger left a day later than I supposed. This day has brought forth somewhat for us. Granvelle, when he had cut off all hope on the part of our friends by his reply, after he heard of Eck's apoplexy, since, perhaps, he saw that the forward importunity of that personage put a stop to the progress toward agreement, requested (Pistorius also being left out) the four remaining theologians to consult together of themselves without any presiding arbiters. So far as I could unders

3 minute read

Read Chapter

The expression of his sentiments in reference to the Church of Geneva—ready to return to that town if the magistrates of Strasbourg consent to it, and if the Seigneury of Berne promise their support—testimony of respect for the Church of Zurich.

The expression of his sentiments in reference to the Church of Geneva—ready to return to that town if the magistrates of Strasbourg consent to it, and if the Seigneury of Berne promise their support—testimony of respect for the Church of Zurich.

Ratisbon , 31st May 1541 . Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Men and brethren, most dear to me and very highly respected,—your letter was most acceptable to me on a twofold account, chiefly because, according to that close tie of spiritual relation which, according to the will of God, subsists between us, you faithfully and prudently admonish me as to my duty; as also, because I perceive you are seriously anxious in behalf of the Church of Geneva, whose admini

10 minute read

Read Chapter

Return of Calvin to Strasbourg—news of the Diet of Ratisbon—contradictory formulæ presented to the Emperor—reply of Charles V.—letter to the King of France in favour of his persecuted Protestant subjects.

Return of Calvin to Strasbourg—news of the Diet of Ratisbon—contradictory formulæ presented to the Emperor—reply of Charles V.—letter to the King of France in favour of his persecuted Protestant subjects.

Strasbourg , July 1541 . When I had ground to think that there was no further use for me at the Diet, by a great amount of brazen importunity, I extorted rather than obtained my discharge; for not only was Bucer very sorrowful at the idea of my going away, but Philip also, who had undertaken to assist me in that matter, when the time drew near, requested that I would remain. I found means, however, one way or other, to disentangle myself. It was not so much reasons of a private kind, as those of

4 minute read

Read Chapter

Communication of a letter received from Bucer—news of Germany—Church of Metz—assurance given to Viret of his approaching departure for Geneva,—recommendation of two young men.

Communication of a letter received from Bucer—news of Germany—Church of Metz—assurance given to Viret of his approaching departure for Geneva,—recommendation of two young men.

Strasbourg , 25th July 1541 . We have lately received a letter in common from Bucer, in which he informed us that no considerable progress had been made in the great concern of religion, except that the princes of the adverse party had presented a very violent reply, directed against ourselves, to the Electors. He adds, however, notwithstanding, that there were some who stoutly refused their consent to it, and shewed a disposition in no way hostile to us, among whom he mentions Otho Henri, [285]

4 minute read

Read Chapter

To Viret.

To Viret.

To-day I have written hurriedly to you and Farel; but because this youth thought that it would not be in his favour if I did not give him a line in writing addressed to yourself, he made me promise that I would do so. I write, therefore, but without having anything to write about. You may pretend, however, that you have received something serious, that you may humour the joke. You will see in the other letter what delays me here. As soon as Bucer returns we shall both hasten to Geneva with all s

50 minute read

Read Chapter

Excuses for his delay in leaving Strasbourg—conclusion of the Diet at Ratisbon.

Excuses for his delay in leaving Strasbourg—conclusion of the Diet at Ratisbon.

Strasbourg , 3d August 1541 . Bucer has returned five days ago. I have not ventured as yet, however, to press our setting out upon our journey, as well because I knew that I could not easily induce him to come until matters there were settled, [290] lest his going thither might prove to no purpose, as because hitherto he has been employed partly in writing what was exceedingly necessary, partly by private business, which has occupied him from the first until to-day. That writing on which he has

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Prepares to depart for Geneva—self-denial of Calvin—absolute submission to the will of God.

Prepares to depart for Geneva—self-denial of Calvin—absolute submission to the will of God.

Strasbourg , [ August 1541 .] When your letter was brought to me, mine was already written; and although you will find that it does not agree in all points to what you require of me, I have thought it best to forward it to you, that you may be aware what my feelings were at the time when it arrived. Now, however, after that I have seen you press the matter further, and that our former guests associate openly in the same cause, I have again had recourse to our magistracy. Having read over your le

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Arrival of Calvin at Neuchatel—purpose of his going to that town.

Arrival of Calvin at Neuchatel—purpose of his going to that town.

Neuchatel , this 7th September, in the evening , [1541.] Illustrious and Honourable Lords ,—When I shall have come hither I will explain to you the reasons wherefore I have been delayed, and hope that I shall easily satisfy you. The present shall only be to signify, that having heard at Soleure that there was some trouble in this Church, [294] I have been constrained, in brotherly love, to go out of my way to see whether, on my part, I could do anything to remedy it. Having acquitted myself of t

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Calvin at Berne—his interview with one of the principal magistrates, and with the ministers of that town.

Calvin at Berne—his interview with one of the principal magistrates, and with the ministers of that town.

Morat , September 1541 . As soon as I arrived at Berne, I presented my letter to the Vice-Consul. On reading it, he said, Those of Strasbourg and Basle request that a safe-conduct be granted you. I replied, that such a requirement was superfluous, because I was neither an evil-doer, nor was I in an enemy's territory. Then I explained what they might easily have understood. The Council, however, through gross ignorance, so understood it, as if it had been written in reference to a convoy. The sta

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Arrival of Calvin at Geneva—his interview with the magistrates—draws up a form of Ecclesiastical Discipline—advises Farel to moderation.

Arrival of Calvin at Geneva—his interview with the magistrates—draws up a form of Ecclesiastical Discipline—advises Farel to moderation.

Geneva , 16th September 1541 . As you wished, I am settled here; may the Lord overrule it for good. For the present, I must retain Viret also, whom I shall not suffer on any account to be dragged away from me. Do you, besides, and all the brethren, exert yourselves to help me here to the utmost, unless you would have me tortured to no purpose, and made utterly wretched, without having any benefit to be gained by it. Immediately after I had offered my services to the Senate, I declared that a Chu

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Efforts to pacify the Church of Neuchatel—instructions given to Viret.

Efforts to pacify the Church of Neuchatel—instructions given to Viret.

From Geneva , this 29th of September 1541 . Illustrious and Honourable Lords ,—Having understood that your Church is not yet freed from the troubles and annoyances which have of late occurred, we have considered that it would only be our duty to send some of our company to you, to offer themselves, should the occasion present itself wherein we might be of service to you in that matter, in so far as our calling and office engage, to extinguish this scandal which the Devil has stirred up among you

3 minute read

Read Chapter

New details regarding the troubles in the Church of Neuchatel—proceedings of Viret—sentence pronounced by the Bernese—the Ecclesiastical Statutes of Geneva—request for prolongation of leave for Viret—testimony of respect and affection for Bucer—approach of the pestilence.

New details regarding the troubles in the Church of Neuchatel—proceedings of Viret—sentence pronounced by the Bernese—the Ecclesiastical Statutes of Geneva—request for prolongation of leave for Viret—testimony of respect and affection for Bucer—approach of the pestilence.

Geneva, 15th October 1541 . Calvin to Bucer greeting. When my wife arrived, Viret had not yet returned from Neuchatel, where a short time previously we had sent him, that, if he could do no more, he might at least make known to them [301] on our behalf, how contrary it was to pious and Christian conduct, that the commonalty on the slightest grounds, and also, sometimes, without having any cause at all, should wax insolent against their minister. [302] Word was brought back to us, that a day had

10 minute read

Read Chapter

Instructions on the subject of the Mass, and on the necessity of avoiding scandal.

Instructions on the subject of the Mass, and on the necessity of avoiding scandal.

Geneva , [ October ] 1541. Madame ,—I humbly beseech you that you would take in good part my boldness in writing these present, deeming that, should you find therein a too great plainness, it proceeds not so much from rashness, or from overweening self-conceit, as from pure and true affection for your service in our Lord. For albeit that I do acknowledge myself a very unprofitable servant of the Church, it hath, notwithstanding, been found expedient to employ me in that station, according to the

19 minute read

Read Chapter

Brotherly exhortations—efforts of Calvin to draw Viret to Geneva—news of that Church.

Brotherly exhortations—efforts of Calvin to draw Viret to Geneva—news of that Church.

Geneva , [ 11th November 1541 .] There is no need for your being over anxious about my expostulation. My object was rather to scold you than seriously to complain; besides, I am well aware that you could not have discarded me from your remembrance even though you had taken no notice of me in your letters for a hundred times in succession. Therefore I bid you be at ease on this score. Would that you could make up matters as easily with those who harass you and disturb the Church! However, as you

3 minute read

Read Chapter

The Vaudois of Provence—appeal addressed to Mathurin Cordier—the Reformation at Paris and Lyons.

The Vaudois of Provence—appeal addressed to Mathurin Cordier—the Reformation at Paris and Lyons.

[ Geneva , December 1541 .] We detained this messenger here with us to-day, unwilling to let him away until we had communicated the letter to Viret. I would not have hesitated to have done so this morning. In the meantime a letter is brought to us which ought long ago to have been delivered. This was the reason why the messenger went from hence after dinner, for Viret was not then at home, and did not return until a little before sermon. In what regards the business of the brethren, [320] the ki

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Healing of the troubles of the Church at Neuchatel—wise counsel given to Farel.

Healing of the troubles of the Church at Neuchatel—wise counsel given to Farel.

Geneva , 5th February [1542.] Your letter greatly astounded us at first, as it not only informed us of your tragical encounter, but also of the success of the enemy at the same time. We were somewhat refreshed afterwards when we understood that the issue of the affair was more favourable, or at least not so disastrous as we had feared. You are right, most excellent Farel, the Lord has wonderfully overruled this whole affair; but we have been taught by the contest what a Lerna Satan must be, who

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Restoration of the Church of Geneva—wise and moderate behaviour of Calvin—obstacles to the establishment of ecclesiastical discipline—duty of the magistrates—information regarding an adventurer named Alberg.

Restoration of the Church of Geneva—wise and moderate behaviour of Calvin—obstacles to the establishment of ecclesiastical discipline—duty of the magistrates—information regarding an adventurer named Alberg.

Geneva , 14th March 1542 . On my first arrival here I could not, as you have requested, write you with certainty as to the state of this Church, because I had not then myself sufficiently ascertained what was the condition of it. Since that time also I have not ventured to say anything for certain, while matters were not very settled, that I might not shortly have occasion to repent of having praised it too soon. And this was also the reason why I abstained from writing when the deputies of our

12 minute read

Read Chapter

The Reformation at Cologne—some details on the condition of Germany—efforts of Calvin to retain Viret at Geneva.

The Reformation at Cologne—some details on the condition of Germany—efforts of Calvin to retain Viret at Geneva.

Geneva , 17th April 1542 . I am glad that Bucer had got back to you in safety. [330] His hope of some good, which he expects on the part of the Bishop, I am afraid is not worth much, unless he ventures at last to undertake somewhat on his own responsibility, even in opposition to the whole of his clergy, for if he waits until the canons come to help him in the work of restoring the Church, he will sit still long enough. If, however, he sets his mind in earnest to it, and does not allow himself t

4 minute read

Read Chapter

Stay of a Carmelite monk at Geneva—declaration of motives for refusing to admit him to the ministry of the Gospel.

Stay of a Carmelite monk at Geneva—declaration of motives for refusing to admit him to the ministry of the Gospel.

Villefranche , [336] [ May 1542 .] The grace and peace of God our Father, by our Lord Jesus Christ, dwell and be with you and upon you always, by the power of his Holy Spirit. Very dear Brethren ,—We would desire to have wherewithal to write you, which might prove matter of greater comfort and consolation to you; for whereas there are some others who would make you sad, we would be the first to take some pains to make you rejoice and be glad. But at this present time, necessity constrains us to

15 minute read

Read Chapter

Detail of the edifying death of the first Syndic, Amy Porral.

Detail of the edifying death of the first Syndic, Amy Porral.

Geneva , 16th June 1542 . Would that I might attain to that discipline in contempt of this present life, and in the meditation of a holy death, as the experience of the past year, in the deaths of many pious persons, may well have brought me. Porral, the chief magistrate of the city, has departed to the Lord; his death, which could not be other than occasion of sadness to us, has been bitterly lamented. The manner of his decease, as it was in some respects consolatory to me, so, on the other han

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Sickness of Idelette de Bure—the beginnings of the new ministers of the Church of Geneva.

Sickness of Idelette de Bure—the beginnings of the new ministers of the Church of Geneva.

Geneva , [ July 1542 .] This brother, the bearer, will tell you in how great anxiety I am at present writing to you. My wife has been delivered prematurely, not without extreme danger; but may the Lord have a care over us. All our colleagues have now made trial of their gifts. [342] The first gave a specimen of his ability to the people such as I always expected of him. Peter is much more apt to teach. The first sermon was successfully delivered by Geniston; the fourth surpassed all my expectati

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Divers recommendations.

Divers recommendations.

[ July 1542. ] First of all, I most earnestly entreat of you, that as soon as you get home you will make the best of your way hither. Then after that, would you turn a little off the road about Nyon, or a little beyond, to visit a certain nobleman, the father of the young man who lives with me? His village is called Bursin, and may be pointed out to you at Rolle. Your arrival there will be most welcome to him, and, as I hope, he will well reward your services. I hope that at my request he may re

35 minute read

Read Chapter

Excuses his silence—estimate of the new ministers—works and literary productions of Calvin.

Excuses his silence—estimate of the new ministers—works and literary productions of Calvin.

Geneva , [ 28th July 1542 .] I do indeed, of my own accord, accuse myself of negligence, plead guilty and self-condemned, and I can scarce ask pardon, having nothing to offer by way of palliation. The reason, however, why we did not write by Cordier was, partly because we thought that he would himself serve as a living epistle, and partly, because there were some at that time here who spoke of proceeding to Neuchatel in a short time. All, however, were liable to this drawback, that only when the

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Proceedings of Castalio—school of Geneva—criticism on the new ministers—tidings of France—domestic sorrow.

Proceedings of Castalio—school of Geneva—criticism on the new ministers—tidings of France—domestic sorrow.

Geneva , 19th August 1542 . I would have written to you long ago, had I not been aware that my letter could not reach you one moment sooner than if I delayed writing until your return. Now, because I conceive, from the reckoning of the time, that you must have at length returned, you have herewith what I have to say in the meantime. As soon as you were gone, strange bickerings broke out between Sebastian [350] and his brothers-in-law, which have sorely exercised me in trying to settle them by a

6 minute read

Read Chapter

Instructions given to Viret for the Synod of Berne—need of maintaining the spiritual independence of the Church—various directions.

Instructions given to Viret for the Synod of Berne—need of maintaining the spiritual independence of the Church—various directions.

Geneva , 23d August 1542 . I wish that your letter, which no doubt is already on the way, had reached me. For although I do not expect it to contain very cheering intelligence, it will yet be a help to me to know somewhat certain as to the state of the Church of Berne. At present I am under the necessity of writing on a subject without being sufficiently informed about it, yet, nevertheless, I cannot refrain from writing. I hear that the Deans of the Classes had been summoned to attend, for the

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Disquietude of Calvin on occasion of the acts of the Synod of Berne.

Disquietude of Calvin on occasion of the acts of the Synod of Berne.

Geneva , [ August 1542 .] I am still waiting to hear what has been done at Berne, what has been said to the Deans, what sort of a reply they made, and what they found they could not obtain. Whenever a trustworthy messenger arrives among us, I will explain my meaning more fully. For the present, I send you a formula, from which you can extract what you please, or strike out what you do not like; and yet, peradventure the Lord will vouchsafe something better, so that it may be unnecessary either t

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Wishes for the success of the journey undertaken by Farel to Metz—calumnies of James de Morges.

Wishes for the success of the journey undertaken by Farel to Metz—calumnies of James de Morges.

Geneva , 30th August 1542 . Wherever, my very dear brother, you are, may the Lord keep you in health and safety all the day long, and that for the good of his Church. If, as we suppose, you have got an entrance within the walls of Metz, may be even there also open up a way for the Gospel; may he fill you with the spirit of wisdom, of prudence, of moderation, of zeal, of fortitude, that you may be armed at all points for an undertaking so difficult and arduous. I clearly perceive how many imminen

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Origin of the disputes between Calvin and Castalio.

Origin of the disputes between Calvin and Castalio.

Geneva , 11th September 1542 . The letters of Farel and his brother were brought to me four days ago; and I thought that you also had seen them, seeing that Peter Cossonay had brought them back with him. Now listen to the freaks of our friend Sebastian, which may both raise your bile and your laughter at the same time. The day before yesterday he came to me, asked whether I could agree that his edition of the New Testament should be published. I replied, that there would be need of many correcti

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Invitation to Viret to come to Geneva—nomination of a principal of the College of that town.

Invitation to Viret to come to Geneva—nomination of a principal of the College of that town.

[ September 1542. ] You ask that I would pardon your somewhat lengthy letter. That I may not be compelled to request a like forbearance on your part, I shall not only be brief but even very precise. It is not very easy to advise as to Zebedee, [372] for it is of very little use to deliberate about what cannot at once be carried into effect. He has increased the blame which attaches to him twofold by his foolish journey, and has not corrected the sin of profane swearing. Would that he were advise

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Approval of a letter of Viret to the Seigneuries of Berne—the ecclesiastical property—Italian emigrants at Geneva—troubles caused by the differences of that town with Berne.

Approval of a letter of Viret to the Seigneuries of Berne—the ecclesiastical property—Italian emigrants at Geneva—troubles caused by the differences of that town with Berne.

[ September 1542. ] (For yourself only.) That day on which I thought of writing to you by Nicolas, some other business came in the way; this is the reason why I did not perform what I had undertaken. At length, when I was looking about for an opportunity whereby to write, this brother conveniently offered his services, but saying that he wished me to reply immediately. But when I would have excused myself, owing to my not being able to write so soon, because the Consistory was about to meet, wit

6 minute read

Read Chapter

XCVII.—To Viret. The plague at Geneva—conduct of the ministers in these circumstances—Italian refugees—the question of the ecclesiastical property examined.

XCVII.—To Viret. The plague at Geneva—conduct of the ministers in these circumstances—Italian refugees—the question of the ecclesiastical property examined.

[ Geneva , October 1542 .] Your letter, in which you requested that I would write somewhat about the ecclesiastical property, was delivered to me on Monday, while I was engaged upon the relics of the wedding. Although that by no means had prevented me from writing, yet since that time I have not had a single moment of leisure. The pestilence also begins to rage here with greater violence, and few who are at all affected by it escape its ravages. [381] One of our colleagues was to be set apart fo

6 minute read

Read Chapter

Numerous occupations of Calvin—death of Leo Juda—ravages of the plague in Switzerland.

Numerous occupations of Calvin—death of Leo Juda—ravages of the plague in Switzerland.

Geneva , 8th November 1542 . When this bearer, who brought you my letter, sought a recommendation from me, I entertained no doubt whatever that he was worthy of it, since he possessed a testimonial from godly and trustworthy persons of his own country who are resident among us. But that which caused me most concern was, that in the midst of these hindrances which beset me at this time, I am compelled to write more briefly than I could have wished after so long an interval. Such, however, I am aw

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Recommendation of a sick person.

Recommendation of a sick person.

[1542.] Seigneur Michel ,—This poor man is so very disfigured in body, that it is pitiful, and even shockingly horrible, to see. He says that it has not happened through profligacy. Seeing that it is a pitiable case, will you consider whether you can manage to help him, so that he may not putrefy in rank corruption? I recommend him all the more earnestly to you, as thinking that he must belong to the town, for had he been a stranger, I would myself have provided for him in some way, so that no o

41 minute read

Read Chapter

Religious controversy occasioned by the plague at Geneva—apologizes for the Reformation.

Religious controversy occasioned by the plague at Geneva—apologizes for the Reformation.

[1543.] Monsieur le Curé ,—We acknowledge that point of your letter to be very true, that the plague which we have in our town is a scourge of God, and we confess that we are justly punished on account of our faults and demerits. We do not doubt also, that by this mean he admonishes us to examine ourselves, to lead and draw us to repentance. Wherefore, we take in good part what you have said, that it is time for us to return to God, to ask and to obtain pardoning mercy from him. We likewise see

16 minute read

Read Chapter

Testimony of respect and of fraternal affection—his homage in one of his books—details of his labours at Geneva—survey of the state of Germany and of Italy.

Testimony of respect and of fraternal affection—his homage in one of his books—details of his labours at Geneva—survey of the state of Germany and of Italy.

Geneva , 16th February 1543 . You see to what a lazy fellow you have intrusted your letter. It was full four months before he delivered it to me, and then crushed and rumpled with much rough usage. But although it has reached me somewhat late, I set a great value upon the acquisition. Howsoever, therefore, I have been, through the negligence of this person, deprived for a season of so much enjoyment, he, nevertheless, at once obtained my forgiveness, when I got possession of the communication. W

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Ecclesiastical particularities—struggles to maintain the right of excommunication over the ministers.

Ecclesiastical particularities—struggles to maintain the right of excommunication over the ministers.

The day before Easter , [1543.] I send you the letter of Pellican, [398] that you also may consider it and take counsel along with me whitherward that may tend about which he writes. As for the books he inquires about, I have no certain information. I shall wait until William returns, after the fair-time. Antony, as you are aware, has been admitted and received without any difficulty. Thus the brethren wisely, so they think, could give no better decision than to pass over in silence so much wick

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Offer of his services—answers the accusations directed against Farel—justification of Ochino—introduces two young men.

Offer of his services—answers the accusations directed against Farel—justification of Ochino—introduces two young men.

Geneva , 18th April 1543 . I reply somewhat late to your letter, because I wished previously to ascertain somewhat about the books which I sought for, that I might let you know something certain about them. I am now given to understand that they have not yet been printed. Whenever they do appear in print, I will carefully see to it, that you may receive them by the first opportunity. I do not proffer my good offices to you in whatsoever they may be of service with many expressions of forwardness

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Calvin at Strasbourg—exposé of his proceedings with the magistrates of that town for preaching the Evangel at Metz—the news.

Calvin at Strasbourg—exposé of his proceedings with the magistrates of that town for preaching the Evangel at Metz—the news.

Strasbourg , 1st July [1543.] Right worshipful and very honoured Lords ,—I hope that Master Peter Viret shall have made my excuses for not having written you from Berne, forasmuch as at the time I was indisposed. Having arrived at Basle, I presented my letters to Messieurs of the Council, who gave me letters of recommendation to Messieurs of this town, requesting that they would assist me with advice, as well as furtherance on my journey. In this town, as well by means of your letters and those

4 minute read

Read Chapter

The preaching of the Gospel encounters difficulty at Metz—intrigues of Caroli—fraternal exhortations.

The preaching of the Gospel encounters difficulty at Metz—intrigues of Caroli—fraternal exhortations.

At Strasbourg , 1st July 1543 . Grace to you from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. There is at present, my dearest brethren, nothing about which I have to write, except that up to this time we are kept waiting in a state of suspense; for my coming hither has happened very untowardly, and at a most inconvenient season, seeing that the Papists of Metz wax insolent because of the near neighbourhood of the Emperor, and pretend his authority as a cover for their making no concession to us wh

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Relation of his proceedings at Strasbourg, and the state of things at Metz.

Relation of his proceedings at Strasbourg, and the state of things at Metz.

Strasbourg , July 1 , [1543,] about mid-day . As usual it has so happened, that I have found matters far more forward and advanced than I had expected. But, indeed, as you are fully aware, I am not very effectively supported. The Senate neither advises nor permits our at once proceeding to Metz. It is thought to be quite useless to write thither, since the letter which has already been sent is either held in contempt, or at least is not so much considered as it ought to be. For the coming of the

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Answer from the Assembly at Smalkald—prolongation of the stay of Calvin and of Farel at Strasbourg—preaching of the Evangel at Cologne—warlike preparations in the Netherlands.

Answer from the Assembly at Smalkald—prolongation of the stay of Calvin and of Farel at Strasbourg—preaching of the Evangel at Cologne—warlike preparations in the Netherlands.

From Strasbourg , this 24th July 1543 . Right worshipful and very honoured Lords ,—Only two days after the return of your herald we have got an answer from the meeting at Smalkald, that for the present the princes and ambassadors from the towns could not openly undertake anything in the affair of Metz; but before separating they would come to a settled determination; that is, to hold another meeting to finish what has been begun, seeing that those of Metz will not go forward, unless they are com

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Exposé of the motives which prevent immediate return to Geneva—Cologne news and of the Netherlands.

Exposé of the motives which prevent immediate return to Geneva—Cologne news and of the Netherlands.

From Strasbourg , 24th July 1543 . Very honoured Lords ,—Having received an answer from Smalkald, I would, with devoted good-will, have desired to come to you at Berne on my return to Geneva, had I not been prevented by Messieurs of the Council of this town. The answer was, that they must settle some other points in the meeting of the convention before they could take the affair of Metz into consideration. There should, however, be no remissness on their part, and they would determine before the

3 minute read

Read Chapter

New delay in conclusion of the affair of Metz—Calvin makes arrangements for his return to Geneva.

New delay in conclusion of the affair of Metz—Calvin makes arrangements for his return to Geneva.

13th August 1543. Right worshipful and very honoured Lords ,—The eight days which Messieurs of this town had required me to wait have turned out to be three weeks, and hitherto we have not gotten any final resolution, for their chief ambassador has not yet returned from the court of the Emperor; and it was he who could explain matters, so that upon his report they might advise further. But, nevertheless, my conscience goads me to delay no longer, for I ought not to be carried away to such a degr

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Exhorts him to quit his native country and to retire where he can make free profession of the Gospel.

Exhorts him to quit his native country and to retire where he can make free profession of the Gospel.

[ 14th October 1543. ] Monsieur ,—How much soever it may be contrary to the usual fashion of men that I use so much freedom as to address you familiarly by letter before being better acquainted, nevertheless, since I feel well assured that my letters shall be agreeable to you, it would be hypocrisy in me to make lengthy excuses as if there were any doubt about that. So, therefore, my bearing and behaviour in this respect shall be as that of one of your friends, without any further preface. The m

6 minute read

Read Chapter

Christian counsel and exhortations.

Christian counsel and exhortations.

This 14th October [1543.] Madame, and well-beloved Sister ,—I have no great matter to write you about at present, unless it be to let you know that I have received your letter, which affords me a suitable occasion to thank our Lord for the many graces he has bestowed upon you, and peculiarly on account of his having thus disposed you to relinquish and renounce all, to devote yourself wholly to his service. It is, indeed, only what we ought all of us to do without murmur or gainsaying, and is eve

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Further exhortation to decide him on quitting his country.

Further exhortation to decide him on quitting his country.

Geneva , [1543.] Monsieur ,—Although I rely with confidence in our gracious God, that as he has guided you hitherto, bestowing grace to overcome many difficulties, which might have turned you aside out of the straight road, he will also in time coming vouchsafe you strength to resist all the assaults which Satan can muster up against you, nevertheless, when I consider the danger wherein you now are, already harassed by so many temptations, as I see them arrayed and set in order, I could not refr

4 minute read

Read Chapter

The ministerial office refused to Castalio—The marriage of Bonnivard, Abbot of St. Victor.

The ministerial office refused to Castalio—The marriage of Bonnivard, Abbot of St. Victor.

11th February 1544. Sebastian has set out with our letters to you. Would that either he might consider more advisedly what was best for himself, or that we might have fallen upon some method by which we could have contented him without disadvantage to the Church. When his old situation with us had been kept open for him, he refused to stay unless we should add somewhat to his stipend. This could not be obtained from the Senate. To me it seemed better to say nothing whatever about the reason why

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Conclusion of an arrangement between Berne and Geneva.

Conclusion of an arrangement between Berne and Geneva.

Geneva , [ 17th February 1544 .] I have never yet replied to your letter in which you admonished me of the need there was that those disputes between the Bernese and our people which were then astir [423] might be settled by friendly arbitration, and wherein you also requested that so far as was allowable for me, I would constantly interpose to prevent that useless quarrel on both sides from creeping on any further at so unseasonable a time. Albeit, however, that you only spurred me on when runn

1 minute read

Read Chapter

CXV.—To Viret. Farther details of the arrangements with the Bernese—recall of the refugees—preparation of several works—disagreements with Castalio.

CXV.—To Viret. Farther details of the arrangements with the Bernese—recall of the refugees—preparation of several works—disagreements with Castalio.

Geneva , March 1544 . When scarce a day passes in which some messenger does not set out hence direct for you to whom I could commit my letter, I shall not throw away time in excusing myself, that you may not believe it has happened through my neglect, that for so long I have never written you, when you would not only be desirous to know somewhat of our affairs, but had also requested that I would do so. Howbeit, you must not impute it to neglect, that I have for a while delayed. For while the de

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Controversy with Chaponneau regarding the Divinity of Christ.

Controversy with Chaponneau regarding the Divinity of Christ.

Geneva , 28th May [1544.] It has much grieved me, my very dear brethren in the Lord, that your letter was not sooner delivered, for had I received it in time your wish would have been complied with, if not to the full extent, yet, at all events, partially. That I did not, therefore, come to Neuchatel on the day appointed, nor send an answer, arose from no neglect, but only because John Roger, the chirurgeon, upon the sixth day after his arrival here, at length presented your said letter, along w

9 minute read

Read Chapter

Struggles and difficulties of Calvin at Geneva—quarrels of the ministers—violent attacks of Castalio—dissatisfaction of the deputies from Berne—reappearance of the plague—dangers of the Church.

Struggles and difficulties of Calvin at Geneva—quarrels of the ministers—violent attacks of Castalio—dissatisfaction of the deputies from Berne—reappearance of the plague—dangers of the Church.

Geneva , 30th May 1544 . For the second time, I now begin to learn what it is to dwell at Geneva. I am, indeed, beset with thousand briers. These two months bypast we have had serious wranglings among my colleagues, and they have even gone so far, that out of four it is quite evident that two have perjured themselves. Of which crime, if they who were accused had been given up to justice, a crying scandal would have arisen. The cases, indeed, were diverse, also happened at different times, so tha

7 minute read

Read Chapter

Political and military intelligence from France and Germany.

Political and military intelligence from France and Germany.

Geneva , 24th June 1544 . Already by this time, you must be caring much less about the request you made me, that I would inform you more certainly as to the preparations of the French King. For even the Swiss, you see, are astir; nor do I entertain any doubt that even there where you are, the intelligence about his plans has been spread far and wide. There is a town in Champagne, which they call Châtillon; thither he concentrates all his forces, there to await the approach of the Emperor; in the

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Arrival of Monsieur de Falais at Cologne—the sending of a minister—pious counsels.

Arrival of Monsieur de Falais at Cologne—the sending of a minister—pious counsels.

This 24th June 1544. Monsieur ,—I shall begin by making our excuses for having so long delayed to let you hear from us the news. I do assure you, that if the time has seemed long to you, it has not been otherwise than wearisome to us, by reason that we could not discharge ourselves of duty towards you according to your desire. Had the communications been open, we would not have found any difficulty, but we need not tell you what has been the time elapsed since the return of good Seigneur David.

7 minute read

Read Chapter

Christian congratulations—hope of a speedy meeting.

Christian congratulations—hope of a speedy meeting.

24th June [1544.] Madame and well-beloved Sister ,—Although I have had a singular desire to see you, and that I am sorry to be disappointed in the expectation of seeing you, which I had entertained, notwithstanding I am thankful to our Lord for the opening which he has made for you, that without going to a greater distance he has allowed you to worship with a pure conscience, and free from the idolatrous pollutions in which you had been led captive. It is another blessing that you can set up the

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Renewal of the controversy regarding the Sacraments between the German and Swiss Churches.

Renewal of the controversy regarding the Sacraments between the German and Swiss Churches.

[ 10th October 1544. ] What you have been advising of late, I mean, for me to go to Zurich to admonish the brethren, I do not see what good that would do. In the first place, I am not aware wherein they have sinned, seeing that I have never read any either of their letters or books which have so much enkindled the rage of Luther. Already I fear the sort of answer they may return. They will not fail to dwell upon the marvellous patience wherewith they have hitherto endeavoured to smooth him down.

1 minute read

Read Chapter

New appeal to the Seigneurs of Zurich, in favour of the Waldenses of Provence—Luther's invectives against the Swiss Reformer—remarkable judgment in regard to his character—his injustice pardoned in consideration of the eminent services rendered by him to the cause of Christ.

New appeal to the Seigneurs of Zurich, in favour of the Waldenses of Provence—Luther's invectives against the Swiss Reformer—remarkable judgment in regard to his character—his injustice pardoned in consideration of the eminent services rendered by him to the cause of Christ.

Geneva , 25th November 1544 . You will receive from this brother who has delivered to you my letter, a crown-piece and two silver testons; for this, if I remember correctly, was the amount that remained. Excuse me, I pray you, for not having sent it sooner. As for the reason why this brother has been sent to you, by those of Neuchatel, he will himself tell you. There is, in my opinion, no difficulty, or very little, indeed, if any, in the case. But the perverseness and importunity of one individ

7 minute read

Read Chapter

Explanations relative to the publication of the book "Against the Nicodemites"—appeal to the authority of Melanchthon and Luther—troubles arising from ecclesiastical discords—announcement of the Council of Trent—policy of Charles V. and of Francis I.—convocation of a Synod at Melun.

Explanations relative to the publication of the book "Against the Nicodemites"—appeal to the authority of Melanchthon and Luther—troubles arising from ecclesiastical discords—announcement of the Council of Trent—policy of Charles V. and of Francis I.—convocation of a Synod at Melun.

21st January 1545. In few words I will explain the reason why this young and pious nobleman [452] has, at my request, undertaken this journey to you. I had published a little treatise in the French language, wherein the dissimulation of those persons was reproved, who, notwithstanding they have been privileged in having the light of the Evangel, yet nevertheless do not abstain from any of the Popish rites which they know to be accursed and full of sacrilege. [453] You would perhaps rather prefer

7 minute read

Read Chapter

Calvin submits to Luther several of his writings, of which he desires to obtain his approbation.

Calvin submits to Luther several of his writings, of which he desires to obtain his approbation.

January 21, 1545. To the very excellent pastor of the Christian Church, Dr. M. Luther, my much respected father, When I saw that my French fellow-countrymen, as many of them as had been brought out from the darkness of the Papacy to soundness of the faith, had altered nothing as to their public profession, and that they continued to defile themselves with the sacrilegious worship of the Papists, as if they had never tasted the savour of true doctrine, I was altogether unable to restrain myself f

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Difficulties in the way of a reunion, and doubts of the efficacy of a General Council under present circumstances—deplorable state of the Church—motives which prevented him from going to confer in person with the German Reformers—his proposals to them.

Difficulties in the way of a reunion, and doubts of the efficacy of a General Council under present circumstances—deplorable state of the Church—motives which prevented him from going to confer in person with the German Reformers—his proposals to them.

January 1545. And so, just as if the day for holding the Council had been appointed for the next month, you make already arrangements for your departure. [466] This, however, is of itself a proof how rashly and at haphazard everything is done among you, and nothing set about prudently or after deliberation, that when the most able persons in the whole kingdom should be selected, the matter has been entrusted to such incapables; except, perchance, that while on other occasions they are the most s

7 minute read

Read Chapter

Intelligence of France and Germany—Synod of Melun.

Intelligence of France and Germany—Synod of Melun.

Geneva , February 2, 1545 . I have sent the pamphlet of Chaponneau, [471] together with the answer, lately to Neuchatel, to Farel and the rest of the brethren. You can ask to have it from them if you wish to read it. I have sent besides to Farel the letter of Robert, [472] in which he mentioned what was the advice which Cardinal Tournon had brought along with him from the Emperor's court, to wit, that he might call forth four or five from our side, one after the other, and so deal with them sepa

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Election of new magistrates at Geneva—struggles of Calvin.

Election of new magistrates at Geneva—struggles of Calvin.

Geneva , 12th February 1545 . See how I am not even yet ashamed of my remissness! I have found out a method by which I can relieve myself from the trouble of writing. I send you a copy of the letters which I have written to Luther and to Philip, that you may thence understand why I have sent Claude to them. I have added a third, addressed to him who had made the request to me concerning that question. The day before your letter arrived, Textor had brought from Christopher the book of Farel to Gi

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Mention of Clement Marot's metrical versions of the Psalms—persecutions in France.

Mention of Clement Marot's metrical versions of the Psalms—persecutions in France.

Geneva , 15th March 1545 . What alone Hector asked, he obtained of me without any difficulty whatever, that in reference to his smaller pieces we would be guided by your decision. Certainly you will pardon me for having laid this charge upon you, for indeed I could not otherwise satisfy both of you; because you wished him to understand that you had written to me expressly and anxiously. This, however, was the only method by which I could make that evident to him, unless I would refuse the one th

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Discovery of a conspiracy for the spreading of the Plague at Geneva.—punishment of the conspirators.

Discovery of a conspiracy for the spreading of the Plague at Geneva.—punishment of the conspirators.

Geneva , 27th March 1545 . Accept my best thanks for your communication about what you had heard concerning the Emperor and the Imperial Diet; [481] with regard to your opening my letter by mistake, I do not forgive you for that, since you have been no way to blame. The Lord is sorely trying us in this quarter. [482] A conspiracy of men and women has lately been discovered, who, for the space of three years, had spread the plague through the city, by what mischievous device I know not. [483] Aft

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Calvin vindicates himself from the charge of having intended to attack her in his book against the Libertines.

Calvin vindicates himself from the charge of having intended to attack her in his book against the Libertines.

From Geneva , this 28th April 1545 . Madame ,—I have received a letter from a man of this town, written, as he said, by your command, by which I understand that you are very ill-pleased with me because of a certain book by me composed, the which I have intituled Against the Libertines. [486] I am sorry to have saddened you, except in so far as it was for your welfare; for such sadness, as saith St. Paul, is so profitable that we have no occasion to repent having caused it. But I do not know, Mad

7 minute read

Read Chapter

Massacre of the Waldenses of Provence—Calvin entreats the sympathy of the Swiss Churches in their behalf.

Massacre of the Waldenses of Provence—Calvin entreats the sympathy of the Swiss Churches in their behalf.

Geneva , 4th May 1545 . After those two brothers about whom I had written, on my suggestion were returned to their friends, the one of them has returned to us with the melancholy intelligence, that several villages have been consumed by fire, that most of the old men had been burned to death, that some had been put to the sword, others having been carried off to abide their doom; and that such was the savage cruelty of these persecutors, that neither young girls, nor pregnant women, nor infants,

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Journey of Calvin in Switzerland—resolutions of the Diet of Arau in favour of the persecuted brethren of France.

Journey of Calvin in Switzerland—resolutions of the Diet of Arau in favour of the persecuted brethren of France.

Geneva , 25th May 1545 . You will pardon my not having returned to Lausanne. For many reasons I hastened forward, but chiefly because Claude Farel had mentioned to us that the dwelling of Geniston might possibly be attacked with the plague a second time. I may shortly relate the result of our proceedings. The Bernese not only granted what we asked, but were also encouragers by their advice to others. The Zurichers appointed immediately an assembly at Arau, and called others thither by special me

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Directions for his conduct towards the Emperor Charles V.

Directions for his conduct towards the Emperor Charles V.

Geneva , 31st May 1545 . Monseigneur ,—Although I cannot sufficiently thank God for having withdrawn you so opportunely from a place in which you were exposed to a surprise of all others the most painful, and in having conducted you, in a manner exceeding all human anticipation, to a spot where your mind can find some temporary repose from its anxieties; yet even now you have as much need as ever of the Divine assistance, as well to enlighten you as to the course which it will be good and expedi

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Consolations on the death of his wife and mother.

Consolations on the death of his wife and mother.

[ June 1545. ] Very dear Brother ,—I have no doubt that Master Christopher [495] will have done his duty by delivering to you the letters which contained information of the death of your wife and mother. If it be hard to bear their loss, you have good cause to find consolation in our Lord, who enabled them to glorify his name in their death, and who gave them strength in the hour of need, and who, I do not doubt, will give you grace to view all these things aright. As to your children, there wou

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Information regarding a house to be sold at Geneva.

Information regarding a house to be sold at Geneva.

22d June 1545. [496] Monseigneur ,—I write you in haste because not forewarned in time, but, please God, I shall soon make up for this fault. At present, I shall only say, that after having considered the subject in which you requested my assistance, I find that a seller will not be wanting when it pleases you to buy. [497] But we see no great advantage in making any purchase, or even entertaining any offer till you are on the spot to judge what will suit you, in which circumstances, it will be

2 minute read

Read Chapter

He complains of Luther's tyranny, and affectionately exhorts Melanchthon to manifest greater decision and firmness.

He complains of Luther's tyranny, and affectionately exhorts Melanchthon to manifest greater decision and firmness.

28th June 1545. Would that the fellow-feeling which enables me to condole with you, and to sympathize in your heaviness, might also impart the power in some degree, at least, to lighten your sorrow. If the matter stands as the Zurichers say it does, then they have just occasion for their writing. Your Pericles allows himself to be carried beyond all due bounds with his love of thunder, especially seeing that his own case is by no means the better of the two. We all of us do acknowledge that we a

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Defence of the Waldenses of Provence—artifices of their enemies—oppression of that unfortunate people.

Defence of the Waldenses of Provence—artifices of their enemies—oppression of that unfortunate people.

Geneva , 24th July 1545 . So far as I understand, from the correspondence of friends, the object which I had obtained through your kind endeavour, and that of all good men,—I mean that of sending a deputation to France, will stagnate after all, unless the business is pressed a second time on their attention. The King's pensioners have so far attained their object by falsehood, that we, forsooth, must not judge worthy even of compassion those whom we behold cruelly slain for the same cause which

4 minute read

Read Chapter

Calvin exhorts them to redoubled efforts for the deliverance of their persecuted brethren.

Calvin exhorts them to redoubled efforts for the deliverance of their persecuted brethren.

Geneva , 24th July 1545 . Of the energy with which, you have espoused the cause of the brethren in Provence, I am myself the very best witness. Because I have no doubt that you continue still of the same mind and resolution, I shall not waste words by endeavouring at greater length to stir you up, that I may not seem to distrust your promise and your hearty desire to help them. But I shall merely warn you, and that briefly, that our labour in what we have been doing hitherto is lost, except you

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Pressing entreaty in behalf of the Waldenses of Provence.

Pressing entreaty in behalf of the Waldenses of Provence.

Geneva , 24th July 1545 . Now is the time for vigorous measures, so that we may not have expended in vain so much labour in behalf of our unfortunate brethren; and now, if never before, they themselves, though silent, implore our aid. For, though I have learned from Germany, the King pretends that he will exercise some degree of moderation, for that a commissary had already been despatched to inquire into their affairs, yet no relief could be expected from that quarter. Their most bitter enemies

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Excuses for the long silence which he had observed towards Wadian—allusion to the controversy regarding the Sacraments—lively entreaties in behalf of the Provençal brethren.

Excuses for the long silence which he had observed towards Wadian—allusion to the controversy regarding the Sacraments—lively entreaties in behalf of the Provençal brethren.

Geneva , 24th July 1545 . Although for some time I have often proposed to write you, yet I was hindered by this one thing, that after such a long interval I felt almost ashamed to begin. Lately, when I was at Zurich an opportunity offered itself, certainly by no means happy, but still convenient. But there again Dr. Bullinger stood in the way, for owing to the very great hurry of business, he prevented me from accomplishing it. Then at Arau, when I had put off writing until I had arranged someth

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Report of the near arrival of M. de Falais at Geneva—details relative to the acquiring of a house in that town.

Report of the near arrival of M. de Falais at Geneva—details relative to the acquiring of a house in that town.

Geneva , 5th August 1545 . Monseigneur ,—I thank our gracious God in that he has rejoiced our hearts with the good news of the restoration of your health, without permitting us to be made sorrowful by a knowledge of your illness. If we had been informed of it in time, we would have offered up our prayers to him as in duty bound. But since he has cared for you so well without your having required our aid, we have double cause to thank him. The joy, too, is increased by learning that this visitati

4 minute read

Read Chapter

Letter of recommendation for Ochino.

Letter of recommendation for Ochino.

Geneva , 15th August 1545 . The bearer of this letter to you is Bernardino de Sienne, [514] a man not long since of high repute in Italy, and deserving of high esteem everywhere. Though I did not doubt that straightway, upon hearing his name, you would, in your kindness, receive him as his singular piety and erudition deserve, yet I was unwilling to let the opportunity pass of adding my own recommendation also; nor would I view it in the light of his need of it only, but also of my duty. Give hi

54 minute read

Read Chapter

Use of affliction—preparation for the arrival of M. de Falais at Geneva.

Use of affliction—preparation for the arrival of M. de Falais at Geneva.

Geneva , 15th August 1545 . Madame ,—It is reasonable, that after having received four letters from you, I should send at least one in return. But I beseech you to treat me leniently on this occasion, as the letter carrier, who promised to give me notice two days before his departure, has been more hurried than he anticipated, and I have had, consequently, less time than I expected. But I shall refrain from further apologies, knowing that, to a person of your good sense, a word will suffice. You

25 minute read

Read Chapter

DR. JULES BONNET.

DR. JULES BONNET.

VOL. II. TRANSLATED FROM THE LATIN AND FRENCH LANGUAGES. ————— PHILADELPHIA: P R E S B Y T E R I A N B O A R D O F P U B L I C A T I O N, NO. 821 CHESTNUT STREET. Entered according to the Act of Congress, in the year 1858, by JAMES DUNLAP, Treas. , in the Clerk's Office of the District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania ....

15 minute read

Read Chapter

Unpopularity of Calvin—various advices.

Unpopularity of Calvin—various advices.

[ Geneva , September 1545 .] When a crowd of the godly had come hither, and I heard some things which it was of great consequence you should know, I wished two of them at once to set out for you. You will understand that Satan seeks by every sort of artful contrivance to keep all men from thinking of succouring these people, and to give a keener edge to the ferocity of the King and courtiers, which is already more than sufficiently whetted against them. The Swiss also are uncommonly severe upon

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Exhortation to glorify God amid poverty and persecution.

Exhortation to glorify God amid poverty and persecution.

[ September 1545. ] Monsieur ,—Although I do not know the state of mind or body in which you are at present, nevertheless, I have good confidence in God that, whether in health or sickness, he gives you strength to overcome all the annoyance you may have to encounter. For you are no novice in the fight, seeing that for a long time past the good Lord has begun to prepare you for it; and nothing has happened to you which you had not looked for beforehand. But it is time to show in reality that whe

4 minute read

Read Chapter

Congratulations on the constancy manifested by her in the midst of trials—salutations from the suffering Idelette de Bure.

Congratulations on the constancy manifested by her in the midst of trials—salutations from the suffering Idelette de Bure.

From Geneva , this 18th September [1545.] Madame ,—I have not leisure to write at such length as I willingly would, on account of the state in which we are. The present letter shall be solely to praise our good Lord for the trust which he has bestowed on you, enlarging your heart in the midst of anxieties, by which it might have been tried, without your having his comfort from on high. Whatsoever may happen, if we have the patience to hearken to our Saviour, he will always give us wherewithal to

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Vanity of trust reposed in the princes of this world—confidence in God.

Vanity of trust reposed in the princes of this world—confidence in God.

Monseigneur ,—I hope that, when these present shall reach you, they will find you, by the favour of our kind Lord, in such state of mind and bodily health as we desire, and likewise Madame your wife. The news, however, which we have had of the sickness of both has grieved us, and will do so until we receive other which may gladden us. Besides, there is reason indeed that we should live and that we should die to Him who has purchased, in order to be every way glorified in us, and that we shew pra

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Captivity of Farel's brother—ravages of the plague in Geneva.

Captivity of Farel's brother—ravages of the plague in Geneva.

[ September 1545. ] You will hear sad news; for this person will inform you that your brother Gautier [5] is lying in fetters, and in imminent peril of his life. The very thing that I always feared, and that I foretold would occur, has happened; and in this I regret that I have not proved a false prophet. But of what avail are such complaints? With regard to helping him, I do not know how far it is in the power of the Bernese to do so, nor what, at this time, they may be willing to undertake. Yo

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Dispersion of the School at Geneva—contests at Neuchatel on the subject of church property—Calvin's opinion of Farel.

Dispersion of the School at Geneva—contests at Neuchatel on the subject of church property—Calvin's opinion of Farel.

24th October 1545. We shall wait until you either restore Francis to us, or send Erasmus. As, meanwhile, the school is dispersed, [8] you must make haste. If both of these courses appear to you tedious, or attended with difficulty, briefly signify so to us; for I will send for a person from Strasbourg, who, in my opinion, will be suitable, although I would rather have taken one from this quarter. With regard to the assistant-teacher , I do not venture upon anything, because it will be more satis

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Prayers for his restoration to health.

Prayers for his restoration to health.

From Geneva , this 26th of October [1545.] Monseigneur ,—I hope that, according to what Antony Maillet has latterly informed us, you are better in body and mind than usual, for which I thank our good Lord, beseeching him fully to confirm you; for I doubt not but the sickness has left a long trail of feebleness. But He who has begun to raise you up, will perfect, as I hope, what he has begun by his infinite goodness, as well to grant the prayers of his servants as to shut the mouth of the wicked,

1 minute read

Read Chapter

News from Germany—journey of the French Ambassadors to Geneva—details concerning the condition of the town.

News from Germany—journey of the French Ambassadors to Geneva—details concerning the condition of the town.

Geneva , 26th January 1546 . There is nothing from your brothers since they passed through this place. I briefly indicated my opinion to Viret about the choice of a colleague for you. I am afraid that further delay may involve a long train of inconveniences, which I should wish to be guarded against. Feron, our brother, [11] so far as I see, will never have quiet of mind until he is translated elsewhere. I had made mention of him to Viret, but it will be for you to consider the matter. My brothe

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Calvin dedicates to him one of his Commentaries.

Calvin dedicates to him one of his Commentaries.

[ January 1546. [18] ] Monseigneur ,—Since my written letter, I have changed my mind, touching the epistle dedicatory of my Commentary, because it is a great trouble and difficulty to be forced to fill up so many pages and no more; I therefore send it altogether, nevertheless, with this condition, that it shall not be printed but by your command. Wherefore, I enclose it in the present letter, in order that Vendelin [19] may not have it but from your hands. Should it not appear fitting that I add

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Rupture of the Relations between Calvin and Servetus.

Rupture of the Relations between Calvin and Servetus.

This 13th of February 1546. Seigneur Jehan ,—By cause that your last letter was brought to me at my going away, I had not leisure to reply to what was inclosed therein. Since my return, at the first leisure that I have had, I have been quite willing to satisfy your desire; not that I have had great hope of late of being profitable to a certain person, judging from the disposition in which I see him to be; but in order to try once more if there shall be any means of bringing him back, which will

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Reply to various questions—terrible threat against Servetus—imprisonment of one of the leaders of the Libertins.

Reply to various questions—terrible threat against Servetus—imprisonment of one of the leaders of the Libertins.

Geneva , 13th February 1546 . You will be at ease regarding your brothers since you received the letter of Claude. The messenger who brought it asked whether mine would be ready when I returned from sermon, after three o'clock. I replied in the negative; but I bid him dine at my house with my wife, as I myself had been invited to dine with Macrin. I promised to be with him immediately after dinner, to make a brief reply. He did not come [to my house,] but hurried away without waiting a moment, s

4 minute read

Read Chapter

Pacification of the Church at Neuchatel—report of the speedy arrival of the Emperor in Savoy—dangers at Geneva—withering mention of Francis I.

Pacification of the Church at Neuchatel—report of the speedy arrival of the Emperor in Savoy—dangers at Geneva—withering mention of Francis I.

Geneva , 20th February 1546 . I specially congratulate you and all your friends, yea, ourselves also, and the whole Church of Christ, that the Lord has unexpectedly stilled all tumults, by restraining the ungodly. Viret had already requested me to be prepared at all points in case there should be need of my presence, and assuredly I should not have been behind; but God is twice to be praised, who by his own counsel has adjusted matters that were in so great confusion. We acknowledge that he was

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Election of a minister at Neuchatel—sickness of Viret's wife.

Election of a minister at Neuchatel—sickness of Viret's wife.

Geneva , 22d February 1546 . I learned from Farel's last letter, that the commotions at Neuchatel were allayed. And I now feel assured that the matter of the choice of a pastor is concluded; for it had at length been agreed that the ministers should promise on oath to nominate in good faith the person whom they deemed most suitable. It was already considered as almost certain, that Christopher would be the man, provided the Bernese would part with him; [32] and there is hope that they will offer

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Calvin invites his friend to repair to Geneva after the death of his wife.

Calvin invites his friend to repair to Geneva after the death of his wife.

Geneva , 8th March 1546 . Come, on this condition, that you disengage your mind not only from grief, but also from every annoyance. Do not fear that I will impose any burden upon you, for through my means you will be allowed to take whatever rest is agreeable to you. If any one prove troublesome to you, I will interpose. The brethren, also, make the same promise to you as I do. I will also be surety that the citizens do not interfere with your wishes. I know not what I ought to imprecate on the

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Renewed and more pressing invitation to come to Geneva.

Renewed and more pressing invitation to come to Geneva.

15th March 1546. I have hitherto delayed writing to you, because I daily expected you to come hither, as you had promised; nor should I have written even now, as I remain in the same state of expectation, were it not that I might incite you to hasten your journey; for I wonder why it is that you thus put off from day to day. I remember that John de Tournay [35] told me that you had a horse; but why not rather come by boat? Unless David has sold his [horses,] that difficulty could be easily got o

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Indication of the various documents wherein are set forth the opinions of Calvin regarding the Lord's Supper—earnest desire for union and peace among the Churches—condition of Geneva.

Indication of the various documents wherein are set forth the opinions of Calvin regarding the Lord's Supper—earnest desire for union and peace among the Churches—condition of Geneva.

Geneva , 17th March 1546 . Your letter gave me the greater pleasure, as I had not ventured to look for it, for it was my part to draw a letter from you by being the first to write. But that you, without being called upon, should of your own accord have anticipated me, I take as a proof of your greater friendship towards me. If, however, you would know the reason of my not writing, I refrained more from modesty than negligence. And generally the testimony of Philip [Melanchthon] is with me suffic

4 minute read

Read Chapter

Instructions to Viret about a journey to Geneva.

Instructions to Viret about a journey to Geneva.

Geneva , 26th March, before supper . The person who delivered yours to me did not know whence it came. I thus received it somewhat later than I wished. I attended to the wish you expressed, that a suitable horse, and one without show, should be sent to you. It would, however, have been sent off sooner, had I not told our people beforehand that you could not leave your place of residence before the morning discourse. I certainly could have wished, if your letter had arrived in time, that you had

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Calvin's labours—the diet at Ratisbon—the Church at Metz—the reformation at Heidelberg—apology for M. de Falais—opinion regarding the sermons of Ochino.

Calvin's labours—the diet at Ratisbon—the Church at Metz—the reformation at Heidelberg—apology for M. de Falais—opinion regarding the sermons of Ochino.

[ April 1546. ] [42] Monseigneur ,—I thank you for the care which you have of my health, anxious that I would not overburthen myself, in straining a point to write to you, when I am not in a fit state to do so. But had I only to write to you, it would be to me a very easy labour, if that can be called toil wherein one only finds pleasure. The difficulty arises from the annoyances and interruptions of the train of thought which intervene, to break off a letter in the midst twenty times over, or e

7 minute read

Read Chapter

Advice regarding the editing of the Apology—details of a loan contracted for M. de Falais—news from Germany and Italy—Farel and Viret at Geneva—death of Juan Diaz.

Advice regarding the editing of the Apology—details of a loan contracted for M. de Falais—news from Germany and Italy—Farel and Viret at Geneva—death of Juan Diaz.

16th April 1546. Monseigneur ,—You see here what I have done desiring to comply with your wish. [51] That it shall altogether satisfy you I shall not venture to promise myself. It will be quite enough for me if you have the persuasion that I have not failed from lack of good-will. Indeed, I fear you may not find that which you had looked for. But it is not reasonable that I bear the blame of the too great credit which I may have with you. If I had been in a right frame, and had I had leisure, po

7 minute read

Read Chapter

Troubles at Geneva—imprisonment of the several members of the family of Favre—account of the assassination of John Diaz at Neubourg.

Troubles at Geneva—imprisonment of the several members of the family of Favre—account of the assassination of John Diaz at Neubourg.

[ April 1546. ] After your departure the dances caused us more trouble than I had supposed. All those who were present being summoned to the Consistory, with the two exceptions of Corna and Perrin, shamelessly lied to God and us. I was incensed, as the vileness of the thing demanded, and I strongly inveighed against the contempt of God, in that they thought nothing of making a mockery of the sacred obtestations we had used. They persisted in their contumacy. When I was fully informed of the stat

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Complaints regarding the conduct of Perrin—firm and courageous declaration by the Reformer of his resolution to persevere in his duty unto death.

Complaints regarding the conduct of Perrin—firm and courageous declaration by the Reformer of his resolution to persevere in his duty unto death.

[ April 1546. ] I should willingly have met you, Lord Captain, had it not appeared to me that a different course was expedient. You will have an opportunity of hearing the reason from me at a proper place and time. I could have wished, however, that you had appeared at the Consistory, by way of example to others. As in that respect you did not do your duty, because you had perhaps not been warned, I desired you at least to be present at the close of the meeting to-day, that the Syndic Corna and

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Requests in favour of the faithful in France.

Requests in favour of the faithful in France.

Geneva , 1st May 1546 . This pious brother is a citizen of Uzés, [62] a place where many have been utterly ruined by the severity of the ungodly. They have all agreed to try whether any succour is to be found among the Germans. I replied, that I had somewhat greater hope to-day, in that our princes have shewn, by clear indications, their aversion from imprisoning. I had, besides, been reminded that there was a certain person at Worms, sent by the Dauphin, who makes many promises. I am, indeed, a

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Expression of Christian sympathy and condolence on occasion of the illness of M. de Falais.

Expression of Christian sympathy and condolence on occasion of the illness of M. de Falais.

From Geneva , this 21st of June [1546.] [66] Madame ,—Notwithstanding that the addition which you have made to your letter has marvellously saddened me, yet nevertheless it was kind to have informed me of it, for that will serve to bestir us, so that we may pray to God with so much the better heart, as danger is to be feared. [67] And, indeed, I had already heard somewhat thereof by Monsieur Dallein, and Master Peter Viret has confirmed it to me. Beside that in praying to God to look down with p

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Excitement caused at Geneva by the Representation of a Play.

Excitement caused at Geneva by the Representation of a Play.

Geneva , 4th July 1546 . Our plays narrowly escaped being converted into tragedy. When the senate had asked my opinion, I said that I would make no reply unless concerning the common resolution of the brethren. The brethren having been heard, I replied, that for many reasons it did not seem to us expedient that the games should be proceeded with, and at the same time I explained the grounds of our opinion. I said, however, that we did not wish to oppose them, if the senate held out for them. Whe

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Proposals of matrimony on behalf of Viret.

Proposals of matrimony on behalf of Viret.

Geneva , 4th July 1546 . Monseigneur ,—You see, by the date of the other letters, what a length of time they have lain by me since they were written, forasmuch as the bearer could not find means to fill his letter-case; whereof I wished to inform you, fearing that you might suppose that he had kept them up for such a length of time in his own hands. We are in great anxiety for news concerning you, on account of the rumour which is abroad. The Lord graciously vouchsafe that you may have matter wh

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Account of the steps taken relative to his marriage.

Account of the steps taken relative to his marriage.

13th July 1546. Think of what you are going to do, and then write to me again what resolution you have come to. The more we inquire, the more numerous and the better are the testimonies with which the young lady is honoured. Accordingly, I am now seeking to discover the mind of her father. As soon as we have reached any certainty, I will let you know. Meanwhile, do you make yourself ready. This match does not please Perrin, because he wishes to force upon you the daughter of Rameau. That makes m

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Fresh details regarding the projects for his marriage.

Fresh details regarding the projects for his marriage.

Geneva , 15th July 1546 . Three days ago, towards the conclusion of supper, mention was made of your marriage, which I had foretold you would be the case. But Dominic Arlot, whose assistance I had employed, presently interrupted the conversation; for he said that the matter was completed. On hearing this our friend instantly sprung up from table, and, in his usual way, gave reins to his indignation; for, says he, his whole body shaking, "Will he then marry that girl of low connections? Could the

4 minute read

Read Chapter

Same subject as the preceding.

Same subject as the preceding.

[ July 1546. ] Only say the word, the thing is settled. I should never have been in such haste, had I not been stimulated by so many remarkable testimonies. But nothing gave me a greater impulse than the desire to be freed from those embarrassments of which you are aware. Adieu, again.—Yours, John Calvin . [ Lat. orig. autogr. — Library of Geneva. Vol. 106.]...

21 minute read

Read Chapter

Breaking off of the match treated of in the preceding letters.

Breaking off of the match treated of in the preceding letters.

Geneva , 25th July 1546 . What I wrote to you, by the treasurer, regarding the settlement of the matter, was told to me by Peter Ursier, whom I was then employing as negotiator; because I was unwilling to say anything myself, until I had received a more definite commission. But after reading your letter, I waited on the father and daughter, that I might be absolutely certain of success. As soon, however, as reference was made to a change of residence, the father took exception to it, on the grou

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Violence of the family of Amy Perrin—declamations of the wife of Froment against the ministers of Geneva.

Violence of the family of Amy Perrin—declamations of the wife of Froment against the ministers of Geneva.

Geneva , [ 1st September 1546. ] Although the letter was not in every respect to my mind, for I was afraid that its undue harshness might hurt so delicate a stomach, I took care to have it forwarded, but in such a way that he should not know that I had seen it. [73] For this person conveyed it to his house as if it had been intrusted by you to himself. Should he thunder after his peculiar fashion, his bolts will die away in mere clatter. I not only appear before him, but almost obtrude myself up

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Calvin's indisposition—literary labours—apparent reconciliation with Perrin and his family.

Calvin's indisposition—literary labours—apparent reconciliation with Perrin and his family.

Geneva , 2d October 1546 . Not to beguile you by a vain hope, I may say that I do not think I shall come to your place before winter; for having once experienced the inconvenience of a voyage, I shall not venture again to commit myself to the waters. A good part of the journey would thus fall to be accomplished on foot, for the jolting of a horse is not only hurtful to me, but the rubbing also is dangerous. I am not acquainted with the physician of whom you speak, nor do I rightly understand wha

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Recurrence to the matrimonial projects of Viret—explanations on various subjects.

Recurrence to the matrimonial projects of Viret—explanations on various subjects.

From Geneva , this 4th of October 1546 . Monseigneur ,—While hour after hour I was on the lookout for James on his return from Lyons, to reply to you by him, I was amazed the other day when my brother told me that he had passed through without speaking with me. And now it happens that I must write you very much in haste, because of the sudden departure of the bearer. It is very true I was told of it yesterday, but it was at eight o'clock at night, when my megrim troubled me so severely, that it

4 minute read

Read Chapter

Sad communication to be made to M. de Falais—promise to send several discourses.

Sad communication to be made to M. de Falais—promise to send several discourses.

From Geneva , this 19th of October [1546.] Madame ,—Forasmuch as you informed me by your last, that you sent me therewith the letter of Monsieur de Fresne, I feared that the bearer had not done his duty in taking proper care of what had been committed to him. But he has assured me that he had received nothing else but what he has delivered to me. Wherefore, I guess that it has been left behind by neglect. I believe that your intention in sending it to me, was in order to have my advice how to in

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Congratulations on his convalescence—uncertainty of prospects in Germany—confidence in the all-powerful protection of God.

Congratulations on his convalescence—uncertainty of prospects in Germany—confidence in the all-powerful protection of God.

From Geneva , this 19th of October 1546 . Monseigneur ,—I believe that you have received my last letter, by which you will have understood that yours had been delivered by Alexander, but somewhat tardily. I give thanks to our good Lord affectionately for the news which Madame has communicated to me of the recovery of your health. I hope that it may please Him, who has begun so well, that in the spring you will feel yourself so nimble that you will not know how to restrain your merriment, so as t

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Excuses for Viret—uses of sickness—various rumours concerning the war in Germany—explanations on the subject of the Supper.

Excuses for Viret—uses of sickness—various rumours concerning the war in Germany—explanations on the subject of the Supper.

From Geneva , this 16th of November 1546 . Monseigneur ,—Although I was expecting a letter from you from day to day, I could not let this messenger go away without writing, to make some reply to your last. I shall begin upon the subject of the little book which you sent me. Having read my answer, and the opinion I had of it, you have mentioned to me the name of the author; and because he is somewhat opinionative, you request me to let you know my mind about it, in order that you may tell him on

9 minute read

Read Chapter

Consolations on the death of his sister.

Consolations on the death of his sister.

From Geneva , this 20th of November 1546 . Monseigneur ,—The day before Camus arrived, I had written to you, as well as to others, by a young tailor of Picardy; but because I was not certain whether they had as yet informed you of the death of Madame your sister, [91] I did not venture to mention it. Now I have rejoiced, and have thanked God with my whole heart, perceiving by the letter of Madame that you had at once taken your stand upon the point whereon I would have founded my principal argum

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Assurances of affection for herself and her husband.

Assurances of affection for herself and her husband.

From Geneva , this 20th of November 1546 . Madame ,—Having been made aware that Monseigneur had been informed of the death of his sister, I have only given him one word on the subject, knowing beforehand from yourself that he has no need of long consolation, seeing that God, without human means, has put into his heart that which cannot fail to alleviate his sadness. As for my promise, to which you hold me bound, I shall discharge myself of it, when God shall have vouchsafed me the means wherewit

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Statement of the expense of a visit to Lausanne, on the occasion of Viret's marriage—ecclesiastical difficulties at Berne.

Statement of the expense of a visit to Lausanne, on the occasion of Viret's marriage—ecclesiastical difficulties at Berne.

Geneva , 3d Dec. 1546 . Two letters of Bucer were delivered to me after a short interval. I send both of them to you, although they may contain almost nothing which you have not learned from other sources. With regard to the King of France, I think that he will shortly be brought to give some assistance with money to our party—the only thing that is sought from him. It is, moreover, in the highest degree, his interest to distract the attention of Charles by another war. [92] I have enjoined Pete

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Military movements in Switzerland—policy of the Cantons in reference to the Emperor.

Military movements in Switzerland—policy of the Cantons in reference to the Emperor.

From Geneva , this 8th of December 1546 . Monseigneur ,—I have nothing to write you at present, except that we are waiting to see what will be done by the Swiss. [95] All is in readiness at Berne as if to start at any moment, the captain, his council, officers, soldiers, chosen and commissioned; a second order sent, to be ready to march, with artillery and baggage. Their army consists of ten thousand men. I believe they would not have delayed so long, if there had not been an impediment which ho

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Calvin exhorts this lady to leave France, and retire with her family to Geneva.

Calvin exhorts this lady to leave France, and retire with her family to Geneva.

This 20th .... 1546. [98] Madame ,—Howbeit that I have occasion to praise God for the great zeal and constancy he has vouchsafed to you, as I have heard from the bearer, yet, believing that my exhortation might not be superfluous to you, in the midst of such diversified trials and conflicts, I was unwilling to forego writing you some words by him, and, above all, to help you to come to a determination upon the point on which you are still somewhat doubtful; that is, as to your retiring hitherwar

6 minute read

Read Chapter

Complaints of the misconduct of several ministers in the Pays de Vaud.

Complaints of the misconduct of several ministers in the Pays de Vaud.

From Lausanne , this 12th January 1547 . Monseigneur ,—Seeing that this present bearer [101] has brought me so good a testimony regarding Lion, and also that I myself have known him to be both well qualified and zealous, insomuch that I have no doubt of his fitness to serve the Church of God, I am constrained to recommend him to you, assured also that the letter of introduction which I give him to you will be of service to him, considering the kind affection which you bear to me. I pray you then

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Mission of Calvin to Switzerland—dispositions of the various Cantons.

Mission of Calvin to Switzerland—dispositions of the various Cantons.

Geneva , 20th February 1547 . Textor will have returned to us before my letter reaches you. The reason why I did not proceed by way of [Neuchatel] in returning from the Swiss, was, that I had engaged to be present with the brethren on a day that must have elapsed had I not made very great haste. With regard to the present disturbances, I have to remark, that the people of Bâle are either in a state of marvellous insensibility, or they possess a wonderful power of concealing their real feelings.

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Search for a house for that gentleman in Geneva—Various details—Mention of Charles V. and Francis I.

Search for a house for that gentleman in Geneva—Various details—Mention of Charles V. and Francis I.

From Geneva , this 25th February 1547 . Monseigneur ,—Having received your letter by the Sieur de la Rivière, I feared that the other, of which you made mention, must have been lost. It has since been brought to me. In reply, I thank God for having increased your joy and contentment. I have written briefly a joint letter to the three companions, to congratulate them on their welfare. I know not whether God will one day so bless us, that they shall have no more need of my letters. If not, I shall

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Instructions regarding the Apology—alarming rumours current at Geneva—Calvin's confidence.

Instructions regarding the Apology—alarming rumours current at Geneva—Calvin's confidence.

From Geneva , this 7th of March 1547 . Monseigneur ,—I forgot in my last letter to mention the subject of the Apology , and I know not how it had escaped me. Saint André had the copy; and in so far I was not deceived in my opinion. But as matters stand at present, if you should think of printing it, I do not see anything there will be to change. To soften it down, that is not possible; and the times will not warrant its being kindled into greater vehemence, at least with any effect. And if you d

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Disputes of M. de Falais with Valeran Poulain—Reports of the expected arrival of the former in Geneva.

Disputes of M. de Falais with Valeran Poulain—Reports of the expected arrival of the former in Geneva.

From Geneva , this 15th March 1547 . Monseigneur ,—I am glad that you have our brother, Master Peter Viret, to cheer you in the midst of the annoyances which must have been very hard upon you, seeing that I have been tormented more than I can express through mere sympathy. But I hope that God has applied a remedy as regards the actual issue; and assuredly he has cared for you by sending you him from whom you may receive as effectual consolation as from any man in the world, so that I am in nowis

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Severe reprobation of his behaviour towards M. de Falais—reply to a calumny directed against the Reformer.

Severe reprobation of his behaviour towards M. de Falais—reply to a calumny directed against the Reformer.

[ Geneva , March, 1547 .] Greeting,—I only received your letter this day, which was later than was proper. Meanwhile, however, I think that the conversation of our friend Viret has done something towards changing your mind on the point. When I heard Saint André's account of the matter, I briefly replied that I was not a little grieved to find that you had thus sullied by your last act whatever praise you had earned, in the discharge of a mission so illustrious. And I am not indeed so light-minde

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Weakness of the Genevese magistracy—Expectation of Viret's arrival in Geneva.

Weakness of the Genevese magistracy—Expectation of Viret's arrival in Geneva.

Geneva , 27th March 1547 . I am in doubt with regard to your coming to us. [118] Roset, as far as I hear, exceeded due bounds in explaining to you the necessity for it, although he is not the only one who errs in this respect; for the whole council is in a state of groundless agitation. I see no one of the whole number in whom I can put confidence. I certainly observe no one here who can be said to be judicious. They show no boldness in a good and praiseworthy cause. So childish are they all, th

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Anxiety regarding the Churches of Germany—advice to Musculus.

Anxiety regarding the Churches of Germany—advice to Musculus.

Geneva , 21st April 1547 . If I were to follow out the subject in this letter, as time and the present condition of things demand, I see that there would be no end to it. There are, besides, other reasons that prevent me from entering on this forest so full of thorns. I was unwilling, however, to send away this youth wholly empty, who had come in my way, without at least testifying to you, in the present calamitous state of your church, and as becomes the friendly relations subsisting between us

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Steps taken at Basle to retract a promise of marriage made to Valeran Poulain.

Steps taken at Basle to retract a promise of marriage made to Valeran Poulain.

From Geneva , this first of May [1547.] Monseigneur ,—I wrote to Myconius, [124] as you will see by the copy which I send you. I was of opinion that it was enough, because the judges will better comprehend my meaning from his mouth. It will have more weight, because the prosecution of the suit will not thus be so vehement on my part, as if I should take upon me to write to them, thus making myself too much a party in the matter. I believe that our brother, Master Peter Viret, will do the same in

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Confused state of the Church—hopes and fears for the future.

Confused state of the Church—hopes and fears for the future.

Geneva , 18th May 1547 . Greeting:—It would not require a letter of very great length, were I to comply with your request to write to you at full length my opinion of the present state of general disorder; because when matters are in so great confusion, I not only abstain from passing any judgment, but I do not even venture to inquire into what may be the issue of them. For as often as I have begun the attempt, I have been immediately involved in darkness so intense, that I thought it better to

2 minute read

Read Chapter

The sending of a minister—perplexities regarding anticipated events in Germany.

The sending of a minister—perplexities regarding anticipated events in Germany.

From Geneva , this 18th May 1547 . Monseigneur ,—Since your convenience has not permitted your coming hither as we had hoped, it is enough if God graciously grants you health where you are. For albeit I might desire to be near you, nevertheless I prefer what is best for you. Concerning the man of whom Maldonado spoke to you, besides the knowledge which I have had of him while he has been here I have made inquiry about him at his old master, Gallars, who tells me that he found him very leal and s

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Information in regard to a house—advice on the subject of a marriage proposed for a relative of Monsieur de Falais.

Information in regard to a house—advice on the subject of a marriage proposed for a relative of Monsieur de Falais.

From Geneva , this 26th of May 1547 . Monseigneur ,—I hope that the bearer of these presents will be the captain of our town, [129] from whom I have hired the house. He has a mind to betake himself to your quarter, in order to confer with you. He has offered me an alternative condition. In the first place: should it please you to lend him money for a certain term, that the house shall remain pledged to you in security for the repayment, without paying any rent; and that of the repairs which you

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Interview of Calvin with a senator of Berne—advantage secured over the party of the Libertins.

Interview of Calvin with a senator of Berne—advantage secured over the party of the Libertins.

Geneva , 28th May 1547 . Zerkinden [132] was here. I laid bare the ailments, and at the same time suggested the remedy of which we had spoken together. [133] He approved of it, but he thinks it will be difficult to obtain it. If, however, he come to Berne in time, he will make trial; for he admits that, in such an emergency, there is nothing that should not be attempted. I am, however, afraid that others may be sent thither before him, who, as is usual with them, after making a great display, wi

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Recommendation of John de Budé—Uncertainty of the news from Germany.

Recommendation of John de Budé—Uncertainty of the news from Germany.

From Geneva , the 4th of June 1547 . Monseigneur ,—I have nothing to write you at present, except that the bearer is one of the sons of the late Mr. Budé. [135] When you shall have made his acquaintance, you will find him so excellent, that you will esteem him worthy of being loved by all those who love God, even if the memory of his father had not of itself recommended him. He is none of those who make a great show and parade. And all the more on that account is he valued by me, and I know that

2 minute read

Read Chapter

He exhorts him to follow the example of the rest of his family, and retire to Geneva.

He exhorts him to follow the example of the rest of his family, and retire to Geneva.

This 19th June 1547. Monsieur ,—Although I am personally unknown to you, I do not hesitate on that account to write you privately, hoping that my letter will be welcome, as well for the sake of the Master whom I serve, as for the matter of which it treats; and also that those who have induced me to do so, have credit enough with you, as I believe they have, to secure me access. I have heard of the upright spirit which our Lord has given you, wherefore let us all praise him. For although you may

4 minute read

Read Chapter

Citation of the wife of Amy Perrin before the Consistory—case of Gruet—news from Germany.

Citation of the wife of Amy Perrin before the Consistory—case of Gruet—news from Germany.

2d July 1547. We must now fight in earnest. The wife of the comedian Cæsar was again summoned to the Consistory, on account of her frowardness. [138] While there, though she received no provocation, in the form even of too harsh a word, she vomited forth more venom than on any previous occasion. First of all, she denied the right of our court to take cognizance of her, even supposing she had been guilty of a delinquency. In the next place, she complained that she was deeply branded with ignominy

4 minute read

Read Chapter

Solemn lessons afforded by the sad occurrences in Germany—troubles in Geneva—energetic attitude of Calvin.

Solemn lessons afforded by the sad occurrences in Germany—troubles in Geneva—energetic attitude of Calvin.

This 14th of July 1547. Monseigneur ,—From what you have written me, I am certainly of opinion that our brother, Master Francis de la Rivière, [146] should withdraw at least for a season. For should it so be that it suited him to return hither, he would not have to make a long journey: and bringing with him some recommendation from Bâle, he might make application at Berne to be sent to Lausanne, with some provision in the meantime. I should not however have come to this resolution, unless your l

4 minute read

Read Chapter

Indecision of the Seigneurs of Geneva—inflexibility of Calvin.

Indecision of the Seigneurs of Geneva—inflexibility of Calvin.

Geneva , 24th July 1547 . There is nothing new in our affairs. The Syndics protract the case of Gruet against the will of the Senate, which does not, however, as would be proper, utter any protest against the delay. For you know that few of them are judicious. I exercise my severity in dislodging common vices, and principally the sources of corruption among the youth. I conceal all sense of the dangers which good men from several quarters allege to exist, lest I should appear over solicitous abo

50 minute read

Read Chapter

State of Germany—details regarding the struggles of the Reformer in the cause of the truth at Geneva.

State of Germany—details regarding the struggles of the Reformer in the cause of the truth at Geneva.

This 24th of July 1547. The electing love of God our Father, and the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, rest always upon you by the communion of the Holy Spirit. Very dear lords and brethren, I doubt not that you have daily much news, as well from hence as from Germany, which might prove a stumblingblock to those who are not overmuch confirmed in our Lord Jesus Christ. But I trust in God he has so strengthened you, that you shall not be shaken, either thereby or by any still greater marvel which ma

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Thanksgiving for the happy deliverance of Madame de Falais—false reports concerning the state of Geneva—details regarding the publication of the Apology—indisposition of Calvin, and his regret at being separated from Monsieur de Falais.

Thanksgiving for the happy deliverance of Madame de Falais—false reports concerning the state of Geneva—details regarding the publication of the Apology—indisposition of Calvin, and his regret at being separated from Monsieur de Falais.

From Geneva , this 16th of August 1547 . Monseigneur ,—Two days after the arrival of M. Budé, I received your letter, which you had delivered to James Dallichant; so that all of them have been delivered. Thinking to find a messenger, I have twice since then been disappointed; and I was also in doubt whether to undertake the journey. For notwithstanding the hindrances which might detain me, I was afraid that I had no sufficient excuse. But the tidings which have since reached us, have removed tha

8 minute read

Read Chapter

False report of Calvin's death—proposition (query) by the wife of Amy Perrin—calumnious accusation against Idelette de Bure—journey of Farel to Geneva.

False report of Calvin's death—proposition (query) by the wife of Amy Perrin—calumnious accusation against Idelette de Bure—journey of Farel to Geneva.

Geneva , 21st August 1547 . I am more grateful to you than words can readily express, for having spontaneously transferred to us your credit and service, when you thought that we were pressed by great difficulties. In this, however, you did nothing that was novel or unexpected. The reason why I did not avail myself of your offer, was that various rumours were everywhere flying about which I thought had been extinguished, but which would have been the more increased had I summoned hither you and

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Mention of a letter from M. de Falais—Emmanuel Tremelli—a book by Viret—journey of Budé and Nicolas des Gallars to Paris.

Mention of a letter from M. de Falais—Emmanuel Tremelli—a book by Viret—journey of Budé and Nicolas des Gallars to Paris.

Geneva , 29th August 1547 . Before bringing to a conclusion the matter of Beat, it seems proper to wait the return of Textor, who I know will be here in a short time, unless some new obstacle intervene. For he had been compelled to remove from Macon, when Claude the dyer lately returned from that quarter. The letter from Bâle contained absolutely nothing of interest to you or me. There was but one letter of Falais to me, in which he mentioned the birth of a daughter, [166] of whose death he spok

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Dedication of the Apology—mention of M. de Montmor—Sickness of Maldonado.

Dedication of the Apology—mention of M. de Montmor—Sickness of Maldonado.

From Geneva , this 10th of September 1547 . Monseigneur ,—By your last, I perceive, that I have not yet satisfied you concerning the Apology . Although the three points which you have noted need not retard the publication, the excuse may be made in three sentences; because should we enter somewhat further on explanation, we must touch upon rather ticklish matters, which it would be better to let sleep. I do not know to whom it would be well to address it at present, considering the temper of the

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Comments by Calvin on a work by Bullinger—state of Germany and Italy—policy of the Cantons.

Comments by Calvin on a work by Bullinger—state of Germany and Italy—policy of the Cantons.

[ Geneva , 19th September 1547 .] It is now six months since I returned your book, with annotations, such as you had requested me to make. [171] I am surprised that I have received no reply from you since that time. When I was in your quarter, you reminded me that there was to be frequent interchange of letters between us. In the meantime, I have heard of some of your townsmen having at different times passed through this place; I have had no one going to you, so far as I remember. Should an opp

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Return of Nicolas Des Gallars—stay of Farel and Viret at Geneva.

Return of Nicolas Des Gallars—stay of Farel and Viret at Geneva.

From Geneva , this 29th of September 1547 . Monseigneur ,—Since my last letter nothing new has occurred, except that our brother Des Gallars has returned, and has also brought with him the present bearer for your service, seeing that M. Budé did not find the person ready of whom he had spoken to you. I think and feel assured, that this man will quite suit you; he is so loyal and serviceable, and knows well what is good breeding, so as to demean himself becomingly. I have advised that he should c

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Re-assuring intelligence on the state of Geneva—restoration of Maldonado.

Re-assuring intelligence on the state of Geneva—restoration of Maldonado.

The 26th of October [1547.] Monseigneur ,—In turning over my papers the other day for another purpose, I found a few words of a preface [175] which I had written on the return of Master Peter Viret. I now send it you, not so much in order that it may be made use of, as to let you know that I had carefully attended to what you had requested of me, although from forgetfulness it had been left there. I have no doubt but that many reports are flying about at present concerning the affairs of this to

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Sad state of the Republic—discouragement of the Reformer.

Sad state of the Republic—discouragement of the Reformer.

Geneva , 14th December 1547 . I am not surprised, and I am thankful that you feel impatient because so few letters from me reach you at this time; for I see from this that we are the objects of solicitude on your part. You are, moreover, daily hearing many reports, some of which may cause you bitter sorrow, and others inspire you with various fears on our account. The rumours that are spread abroad are almost all groundless; but we are oppressed by intestine evils that are so little public as ha

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Rising at the Hôtel de Ville—heroic bearing of Calvin—trust in God alone.

Rising at the Hôtel de Ville—heroic bearing of Calvin—trust in God alone.

[ Geneva ,] 14th December 1547 . [The enemy] are so blinded that they pay no regard to propriety. Yesterday not a little confirmed a suspicion previously entertained by us, that they were shamelessly striving to excite some commotion. The Two Hundred had been summoned. I had publicly announced to my colleagues that I would go to the senate-house. We were there a little, indeed, before the hour of meeting. As many people were still walking about in the public street, we went out by the gate that

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Printing of The Apology—troubles at Geneva.

Printing of The Apology—troubles at Geneva.

The 19th December 1547. Monseigneur ,—I shall not at present write a very long letter to you because I was not informed that the messenger would go away so soon. He is an engraver, who had left about two hours before I could speak to our printer. Seeing, therefore that your armorial bearings would not have been very well suited to the form of the book, I immediately sent after him, and have had them done in lead, as you will see by the proof. I feel quite confident that you will not be sorry tha

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Invitation to come to Geneva.

Invitation to come to Geneva.

Geneva , 26th December 1547 . Amid the great swellings of our commotions, I ought not, nevertheless, to have gone so far as to ask you to come hither, because I knew that you were detained in your own locality by necessary occupations; and another obstacle stood in the way of it, as it was possible some rumour of your coming might thereupon reach the Arctei. Now, as I hope you have more leisure, you would do a valuable service were you to make yourself ready for the journey on the earliest possi

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Publication of The Antidote—statement regarding the condition of Geneva.

Publication of The Antidote—statement regarding the condition of Geneva.

Geneva , 28th December 1547 . My Antidote [179] now begins to please me, since it is so greatly approved of by you, for before, I was not satisfied with it. But you who know my daily labours, and still more the contests with which I am not so much occupied as quite wasted, are perhaps ready to excuse me when there is anything not quite perfect. I certainly marvel that any composition worthy of perusal can emanate from me. With regard to your exhortation, that my colleagues and I should persist w

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Consolations on occasion of the Death of one of its Members.

Consolations on occasion of the Death of one of its Members.

[1547. [183] ] Messieurs and well-beloved Brethren ,—Although the present is addressed particularly to two of you, [184] I nevertheless write in such wise, that if you think fit it may serve for the whole household. If the account which I have heard of the death of your good brother and mine have been the occasion of joy to me, as, indeed, there was good reason for it, you who have known better the whole matter, have, assuredly, far more ample matter for rejoicing, not for that you have been dep

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Cost of printing The Apology—despatch of several copies.

Cost of printing The Apology—despatch of several copies.

The 24th of January 1548. Monseigneur ,—Until the return of Sire Nicolas, I shall not trouble you with long letters, for I expect more ample news by him. Rest assured, that if I may follow my inclination, please God I shall not fail to keep my promise. [185] But seeing that I am not a free man, I must needs abide the course of events. We have, God be thanked, another sort of tranquillity than during the time of billeting. But there is never any season throughout the year in which I have not my w

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Particulars regarding his departure, and the purchase of a property near Geneva.

Particulars regarding his departure, and the purchase of a property near Geneva.

This last day but one of February 1548. Monseigneur ,—According to our agreement, the coming of Sire Nicolas Loser will afford you a good opportunity for making the journey, if your health admits of it. [188] He ought to go as far as Strasbourg; but in order that you may not be delayed, I have somewhat hastened his departure. To those who make inquiry of me, I reply, that already you are wishing to be here; but that whether you shall come or no, will be seen in due time. Regarding the payment, w

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Brotherly explanations regarding the difference on the subject of the Communion.

Brotherly explanations regarding the difference on the subject of the Communion.

Geneva , 1st March 1548 . I hardly know what prevented me from replying sooner to you, unless it were that no trustworthy messenger presented himself who roused me to diligence. But when I heard that the ambassador of your city was here, I was unwilling to be guilty of allowing him to depart without a letter from me. I pass over in silence the long reply in which you seek to wash away all those points of difference about which I had carefully admonished you. For of what avail is it for us to ent

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Obstacles to his departure—delay of some months.

Obstacles to his departure—delay of some months.

The 3d of April (1548. [191] ) Monseigneur ,—Your letter has arrived just in time to stop the departure of my brother; for that was a settled matter, if I had not been informed. But in my opinion the reasons which detain you where you are, are not of such importance as you deem them. You see how familiarly I write to you on this point, and I do not fear to do so, being authorized by yourself. I had not thought that you would need expressly to renounce your rights as a burgess, [192] although I f

4 minute read

Read Chapter

Distressing condition of the Swiss churches.

Distressing condition of the Swiss churches.

Geneva , 30th April 1548 . My grief prevents me from saying anything of the dreadful calamity that hangs over so many churches. Michael will inform you of what I wrote to Viret. The cause is of such a nature that no one is to be reckoned among the servants of Christ who does not come forward boldly in his defence. But there is need of counsel and some moderation. Should Viret agree to it, I shall presently hasten to your quarter, that we three may thence proceed together to Zurich. As to the res

59 minute read

Read Chapter

Disputes among the ministers of Berne—and Calvin's journey thither.

Disputes among the ministers of Berne—and Calvin's journey thither.

Geneva , 9th May 1548 . After receiving your last letter, I had set out on my journey; but meeting the father-in-law of my brother Coppet who told me that you had left Berne three days before, I returned home for several reasons, which, if it shall be deemed necessary, I will detail to you when I see you. Make me now aware of what you intend to do; for I will straightway execute whatever you shall demand, without the slightest deliberation. I have not yet been able to understand the result of yo

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Communications regarding affairs at Berne.

Communications regarding affairs at Berne.

[ Geneva , June 1548 .] You will say to Farel that I had written to Bucer before his letter reached me. I send you a copy of a letter to Sulzer. I have resolved to write to Bullinger and Haller, should I be permitted and have leisure. This is the reason why I do not return the letter of Gualter. It is necessary that the threats of Ludovic form the matter of judicial inquiry by the brethren. When he shall have been convicted by them, I doubt not but that he will be proceeded against according to

53 minute read

Read Chapter

Ecclesiastical tyranny of the Seigneurs of Berne—sojourn of Idelette de Bure at Lausanne.

Ecclesiastical tyranny of the Seigneurs of Berne—sojourn of Idelette de Bure at Lausanne.

[ Geneva ,] 15th June 1548 . I took care to have a copy of the letter which I wrote to Bullinger and Haller transcribed for you, in case its contents should be reported differently from what you may have thought it proper they should have been; for, as far as I am concerned, the letter itself contains my opinion to the best of my judgment. If the reason must be assigned, I not only look to what is becoming in honourable men, but I further fear that we may suffer a heavy penalty if, by servile di

1 minute read

Read Chapter

New explanations regarding the Supper—Violence of some of the Bernese ministers—Calvinism and Buceranism.

New explanations regarding the Supper—Violence of some of the Bernese ministers—Calvinism and Buceranism.

Geneva , 26th June 1548 . Your letter at length reached me, eight days after I had arrived at home. Reust was not himself the bearer of it; it was brought by Roset. The former, I suppose, was less solicitous about the delivery of it, as he had found a master without our assistance. We both, however, courteously placed our services at his disposal. With regard to your small treatise to which you refer in your letter, I wish, my Bullinger, as we were lately in your quarter, it had not been trouble

8 minute read

Read Chapter

Preparations for the marriage of Mademoiselle de Wilergy, his relation.

Preparations for the marriage of Mademoiselle de Wilergy, his relation.

From Geneva , this 17th of July [1548.] Monseigneur ,—I believe that it will be best as it is. If it had been possible to speak together about the contract, [202] I would have much desired to do so; but I do not know whether you will be able to come this week. However, the man offers, in case he should leave his wife a widow without children that she shall have a thousand crowns. In the event of his leaving children, she shall have the half, but on condition that, if she marry afterwards, and ha

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Uncertainty regarding the disposition of the Cantons—stay of Monsieur and Madame de Falais in Calvin's house.

Uncertainty regarding the disposition of the Cantons—stay of Monsieur and Madame de Falais in Calvin's house.

[ Geneva ,] 27th August 1548 . I have no doubt, even although you do not expostulate with me, that you silently condemn me for neglect in having suffered so many bearers to depart for you without my letter. If I were to plead that there was nothing to write about, you would at once confute me. Even though matter for correspondence is never wanting, I permit myself to indulge in silence, when there is nothing pressing. We are waiting to find whether the Swiss will suffer themselves to be circumve

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Embarrassment occasioned to Calvin by the treacherous publication of one of his letters to Viret.

Embarrassment occasioned to Calvin by the treacherous publication of one of his letters to Viret.

[ Geneva ,] 20th September 1548 . I was within a little of letting our friend Merlin depart without a letter. When he was already equipped for the journey, he sacrificed for me the time between sermon and supper; the half of which period I spent in conversation with some people. With regard to a successor to Himbert, I have scarcely ground for giving an advice. I see indeed the dangers that are imminent, unless some one be put in his place as soon as possible. I do not observe among you any one

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Exhortation to come to Geneva, that he might there serve the Lord faithfully.

Exhortation to come to Geneva, that he might there serve the Lord faithfully.

This 18th of October 1548. Monsieur ,—I have partly been informed of your intention by the Sieur François de la Rivière, and praise our Lord for the good courage he has given you to serve him fully. As we ought to yield ourselves up to him entirely and without reserve, if we desire to be approved as his, you must now ascertain how you can employ yourself as is your duty in his service. It is true that the earth is the Lord's, and that we are at liberty to dwell in any part of it, provided we tak

6 minute read

Read Chapter

Duties imposed on the Protector by the high office which he holds—plan of a complete reformation in England—preaching of the pure word of God—rooting out of abuses—correction of vices and scandalous offences.

Duties imposed on the Protector by the high office which he holds—plan of a complete reformation in England—preaching of the pure word of God—rooting out of abuses—correction of vices and scandalous offences.

Geneva , 22d October 1548 . Monseigneur ,—Although God has endowed you with singular prudence, largeness of mind, and other virtues required in that station wherein he has set you, and for the affairs which he has put into your hand; nevertheless, inasmuch as you deem me to be a servant of his Son, whom you desire above all else to obey, I feel assured, that for the love of him you will receive with courtesy, that which I write in his name, as indeed I have no other end in view, save only, that

29 minute read

Read Chapter

Election of new magistrates at Geneva—troubles in France—letter from Bucer.

Election of new magistrates at Geneva—troubles in France—letter from Bucer.

Geneva , 27th November 1548 . You ought not to impute to my negligence your not having received a letter from me since you set sail from this place; for I have found no one setting out in your direction. It is not quite safe, moreover, in these times, for a letter to be carried about by a variety of hands. In the next place, I hardly know what to write to you, because there is nothing that is not fitted to cause you much more annoyance than satisfaction. The prefect Molard is here, with whom are

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Evidences of faith and Christian steadfastness, amid the dangers that threaten the Church.

Evidences of faith and Christian steadfastness, amid the dangers that threaten the Church.

[ Geneva , December 1548 .] If the rumour that has suddenly been spread among us be true, it behoves us to hold ourselves ready for the clash of arms. Would that the world were wise, for in that case it would long ago have been accustomed to cultivate peace under the favour of God. But since a good part of it takes too much pleasure in a war with God, it is but just that all those who refuse peaceably to submit themselves to the Author of Peace, should perish wretchedly in their mutual tumults.

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Exhortation to a courageous and honest profession of the truth.

Exhortation to a courageous and honest profession of the truth.

This 8th January 1549. Madame ,—I would not have taken the liberty to write to you, if a man, whom I ought to trust among all others, had not emboldened me to do so, by assuring me that my letter would be agreeable to you. That is, Monsieur de Normandie, who, feeling himself obliged to you for the kindness you had shewn him, had a special desire to do you service, so far as he had the means, and besides, has such a care of your salvation as he ought to have who knows that you have loved him, as

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Exhortations to steadfastness in the faith—acknowledgment of liberality.

Exhortations to steadfastness in the faith—acknowledgment of liberality.

The 12th of January 1549. Mademoiselle my Sister ,—I am very glad that your letter has afforded an occasion for my writing to you, so that without further excuse access and freedom have been given me, were it for nought else than to declare the affection I have for you. Therein, that is in your letter, I can perceive evident and clear signs of spiritual vitality; and I have not a doubt but the heart speaks therein quite as much, or rather more than the mouth. Besides, you shew convincingly that

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Exhortations to discharge to the end their ministerial duties.

Exhortations to discharge to the end their ministerial duties.

[ Geneva , 16th January 1549 .] Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ.—Very dear brethren, deserving of my hearty reverence, what we so long feared has at length come to pass, for Satan has, by the aid of his ministers, overturned among you also the order of the Church as established by God. Yet your letter was consolatory—so far as there could be any consolation in so very sad a state of things—for we learned from it that you were all faithful to the last i

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Hope of union with the theologians of Zurich—dedication of several writings.

Hope of union with the theologians of Zurich—dedication of several writings.

Geneva , 21st January 1549 . I at length received your former letter, which I thought had been destroyed, three days before the latter of the two reached me. For when the person who married the other sister [220] sought Hooper's [221] letter from his companion, observing another small packet, he immediately laid hands on it. His companion, either from modesty, or from some cause I know not what, did not dare to take it from him. I have read your annotations, from which I have discovered what you

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Consolations to be found in the study of divine and everlasting truth.

Consolations to be found in the study of divine and everlasting truth.

[ February 1549. ] As truth is most precious, so all men confess it to be so. And yet, since God alone is the source of all good, you must not doubt, that whatever truth you anywhere meet with, proceeds from him, unless you would be doubly ungrateful to him; it is in this way you have received the word descended from heaven. For it is sinful to treat God's gifts with contempt; and to ascribe to man what is peculiarly God's is a still greater impiety. Philosophy is, consequently, the noble gift o

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Desire of union between the Churches of Berne and Geneva.

Desire of union between the Churches of Berne and Geneva.

Geneva , 13th March 1549 . Seeing that we have, unsolicited, offered you a reading of our views on the sacraments, it seems desirable to furnish you, briefly, with some reason for our resolution in this matter; although, indeed, no lengthened introduction is needed in dealing with us in so just a cause. When your illustrious senate has publicly called upon you to deliberate, among other matters, regarding the peace of the Church, of which the peculiar bond is harmony in purity of doctrine, it is

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Death of Idelette de Bure, the wife of Calvin.

Death of Idelette de Bure, the wife of Calvin.

April 7, 1549. Although the death of my wife has been exceedingly painful to me, yet I subdue my grief as well as I can. Friends, also, are earnest in their duty to me. It might be wished, indeed, that they could profit me and themselves more; yet one can scarcely say how much I am supported by their attentions. But you know well enough how tender, or rather soft, my mind is. Had not a powerful self-control, therefore, been vouchsafed to me, I could not have borne up so long. And truly mine is n

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Further details regarding the death of Idelette de Bure.

Further details regarding the death of Idelette de Bure.

Geneva , 11th April 1549 . Intelligence of my wife's death has perhaps reached you before now. I do what I can to keep myself from being overwhelmed with grief. My friends also leave nothing undone that may administer relief to my mental suffering. When your brother left, her life was all but despaired of. When the brethren were assembled on Tuesday, they thought it best that we should join together in prayer. This was done. When Abel, in the name of the rest, exhorted her to faith and patience,

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Account of the instructive death of Madame Laurent de Normandie.

Account of the instructive death of Madame Laurent de Normandie.

This 29th of April 1549. Madame ,—Although the news which I communicate is sad, and must also sadden the person to whom I beg you to impart it, nevertheless I hope that my letter will not be unwelcome to you. It has pleased my God to withdraw from this world the wife of my kind brother, M. de Normandie. [230] Our consolation is, that he has gathered her unto himself; for he has guided her even to the last sigh, as if visibly he had held out the hand to her. Now, forasmuch as her father must need

7 minute read

Read Chapter

Various particulars—recommendation of Francis Hotman, Jurisconsult.

Various particulars—recommendation of Francis Hotman, Jurisconsult.

7th May 1549. When Ferron was deposed he said you would write on his behalf. I have not received anything as yet. He behaved so insolently in our assembly that he very much resembled a man deprived of his reason. [232] The Lord will direct the matter according to his will; we have resolved on acting so moderately as to show him that he has to do with men and with servants of Christ. Cæsar the comedian annoys us in whatever way he can. Hitherto it has so turned out that he has gained nothing by i

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Pleading in favour of the alliance of the Reformed Cantons with France.

Pleading in favour of the alliance of the Reformed Cantons with France.

7th May 1549. As time does not permit me to reply to your letter now, I am merely desirous of telling you that I have scarcely ever received anything more pleasant from you, as it served to alleviate a very trying domestic grief, which, occasioned by the death of my wife a little before, was causing me very much sorrow. For I am very glad that hardly anything—or at least very little—hinders us from agreeing now even in words. And, certainly if you think you can so arrange matters, I make no obje

6 minute read

Read Chapter

He exhorts her and her companions to live in conformity with the law of God.

He exhorts her and her companions to live in conformity with the law of God.

This 10th of June 1549. Madame and well-beloved Sister ,—As we ought to be glad when the kingdom of the Son of God our Saviour is multiplied, and the good seed of his doctrine is everywhere spread abroad, I have been greatly rejoiced in perceiving from your letter that his grace and bounty has reached to you, to draw you on in the knowledge of his truth, wherein lies our salvation and every blessing. Indeed, it is a kind of miracle when he is pleased to make his glorious light shine in the place

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Encouragements and consolations—desire for the conclusion of peace between France and England—excesses of the ultra-Lutheran party in Switzerland and Germany—agreement between the Churches of Geneva and Zurich.

Encouragements and consolations—desire for the conclusion of peace between France and England—excesses of the ultra-Lutheran party in Switzerland and Germany—agreement between the Churches of Geneva and Zurich.

June 1549. Although your letter was mixed with joy and sorrow, yet it was extremely pleasant to me. Would that I were able in some measure to lighten the sufferings of your heart, and those cares by which I see you are tortured! We all beseech you, again and again, not to keep afflicting yourself to no purpose. Yet it is neither proper in itself, nor is it in keeping with your piety, nor should we desire to see it, that amid such various and manifold causes for grief, you should be joyous and ch

6 minute read

Read Chapter

Thanks to the Duchess of Somerset, the mother of Anne Seymour—exhortation to perseverance in the true faith.

Thanks to the Duchess of Somerset, the mother of Anne Seymour—exhortation to perseverance in the true faith.

17th June 1549. As your mother, illustrious lady, lately presented me with a ring, as a token of her good-will towards me, which I did not at all deserve, it would be exceedingly unbecoming in me not to show some sign of gratitude, by giving expression, at least, to my regard for her. But not being able to find language, again, in which to discharge this sort of duty, nothing seems fitter than that I should call you to my aid, noble lady, distinguished no less by your worth than by your descent.

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Reply by the Protector of England to a letter from Calvin.

Reply by the Protector of England to a letter from Calvin.

9th July 1549. The English messenger [245] has at last returned. He has brought a letter from the Regent, in which he expresses himself thankful for my service. His wife sent me a present of a ring, not of great value, not being worth more than four crown pieces. The members of his family led me to expect a tolerably liberal present from him, in a short time, which I neither desire nor long for. For what has, as I hear, given a keener stimulus to him, is a sufficiently ample reward for me. Adieu

50 minute read

Read Chapter

Imprisonment of two brothers of M. de Falais—persecution in the Low Countries and in France.

Imprisonment of two brothers of M. de Falais—persecution in the Low Countries and in France.

Geneva , 19th July 1549 . You know of the letter we have received from Bullinger. I was hoping the Bernese were going to give over negotiations. At all events, the inhabitants of Zurich see now with what just reason we in time past complained of our broken heads. Haller lately confessed to me that he would gladly have written, had Schirma not been afraid. I certainly excuse what does not provoke such rage. The people of Zurich might have obtained their wishes from the Senate, had they not stripp

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Negotiations in reference to the publication of the Consensus—George, Count of Montbeliard.

Negotiations in reference to the publication of the Consensus—George, Count of Montbeliard.

[ Geneva , 20th July 1549 .] You ought also to add your judgment to the letter of Bullinger. The reason which he prefixes for publishing the agreement, has something or other absurd in it. I fear again that the same over-scrupulousness will appear in this affair. I shall neglect nothing, however, which you and Farel think it useful to attempt. I have written to Paris concerning the Hebrew professor. If one be procured, he can hardly be present on the day of your assembly, as I had not fixed upon

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Urgent recommendation of the adoption of a fixed formulary in the celebration of the Lord's Supper.

Urgent recommendation of the adoption of a fixed formulary in the celebration of the Lord's Supper.

Geneva , 1st August 1549 . Although I have repeated occasion to act with you concerning the same matter, yet I do not think I should be afraid of seeming troublesome. Since the same subject is a matter of common interest to us, it cannot be that you will disapprove of what I am engaged in, and, as the perpetual importunity of good men urges me to it, a little more zealously than is proper. I have oftentimes already given advice regarding a small matter, although many were offended, not without a

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Revisal of the Formulary—persecutions in France.

Revisal of the Formulary—persecutions in France.

Geneva , 13th August 1549 . I was reminded, when it was too late, of the departure of the registrar. For it was not convenient for me to write then—on account of the Supper namely—especially as I was not able to do it so satisfactorily as could be wished. Indeed this is almost a customary thing with me. But a letter came into my possession to-day which you had written just before mine was composed. I had delayed writing you a private letter, indeed, until a trustworthy messenger might be at hand

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Letter concerning Vergerio—history of Francis Spira.

Letter concerning Vergerio—history of Francis Spira.

15th August 1549. You have here the letter which I sent to Bullinger. [254] I resolved, indeed, not to send it until I should learn that it would be agreeable to you. But the messenger, who has just left me, having unexpectedly presented himself, led me to change this resolution. It might perhaps have been written better by another, yet I hope it will appear tolerably satisfactory to you. Having the utmost confidence in your carefulness, my dear Viret, I have not retained a copy of it. You will

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Criticism on a work by Farel.

Criticism on a work by Farel.

Geneva , 1st September 1549 . You will learn from your brother that the painful case of Ferron has been renewed. [258] Bullinger, as you will observe, writing previous to receiving my letter, had good hopes of publishing a union. I make honourable mention of you in my preface; even if it should give pain to the wicked, they must nevertheless swallow it in silence. I have written nothing regarding your book, [259] as I laid the whole burden on Viret. I said from the first, what is true, that I mi

1 minute read

Read Chapter

First mention of Theodore Beza—poverty of Calvin's colleagues.

First mention of Theodore Beza—poverty of Calvin's colleagues.

5th September 1549. I understand that Eustace, on his return, had some conversation with you regarding two professors whom he knew about. While some deference is due to the judgment of a pious and learned man, yet I dare not trust it absolutely. Consider the matter calmly, therefore, along with the brethren. For I have promised that I will write to you in no other way than to give you a faithful advice. The Piedmontese author of the long epistle is no better known to me than to you; so we may wi

1 minute read

Read Chapter

A Reformer's complaints on the malevolence of the Bernese ministers.

A Reformer's complaints on the malevolence of the Bernese ministers.

Geneva , 26th November 1549 . I beg you, my dear Haller, not to take it amiss that I ask you to discharge the present duty for me, as I shall impose a new burden on you, by and by, to provide, viz., for the transmission of my letter to Zurich. Conrad Curio, who is at present schoolmaster at Zurtolphi, got me to become security for him with a certain bookseller. My reminding him of it has been hitherto useless, and I am now pulling his ears a little more smartly, lest I pay the penalty of his neg

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Prohibition of the Vaudois Conferences—remonstrances on the intolerance of the Bernese ministers towards those of France.

Prohibition of the Vaudois Conferences—remonstrances on the intolerance of the Bernese ministers towards those of France.

Geneva , 28th Nov. 1549 . If your senate had reasons for forbidding the ministers to assemble in future, according to their custom, to confer upon the Scriptures, it seems to me that I have formed a correct opinion of them. But I deny that this was a useful remedy. I have heard that there were never any contentions at Lausanne until that madman resolved upon perpetually harassing the Church. Every one will admit that such meetings are an excellent institution; and experience has hitherto shown t

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Statement of leading articles of the Reformed Faith.

Statement of leading articles of the Reformed Faith.

From Geneva , ... [1549?] Monsieur ,—Although I am personally unknown to you, still I believe you will not think it strange that I make so bold as to write to you, having been requested to do so by two persons who ought to insure me free enough access,—I mean Monsieur de Saint-Martin and your daughter. Wherefore, also, I shall forbear making further excuses, and likewise because I have heard that my letters would not be unwelcome to you, but that you would have the patience to read and think ove

7 minute read

Read Chapter

Congratulations on the royal favour shown to the Duke of Somerset—use to be made of his influence for spreading the Gospel in England.

Congratulations on the royal favour shown to the Duke of Somerset—use to be made of his influence for spreading the Gospel in England.

January 1550. Monseigneur ,—That I have so long delayed to write to you, has been from no want of good-will, but to my great regret I have refrained, fearing lest, during the troubles which have been of late, my letters should be the occasion of annoyance. I thank my God that he has now afforded me the opportunity which hitherto I have been waiting for. It is not I alone who rejoice at the good issue which God has given to your affliction, but all true believers, who desire the advancement of th

7 minute read

Read Chapter

Tidings from Germany and England—recommendation of a domestic.

Tidings from Germany and England—recommendation of a domestic.

Geneva , 1st February 1550 . Although you have not had a long letter from me for a considerable time, yet I do not think that even now I have anything new to write to you. All the time that our friend Thomas was here, I was either suffering severely from a cough or annoyed by catarrh. A violent headache is now tormenting me, although it has been easier for the past hour. It is well that I am not prevented from labouring, in a kind of way, to discharge my necessary duties; but I usually make but

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Election of a new Pope.

Election of a new Pope.

3d March 1550. I am glad that worthy man has at length so far listened to rational advice as to yield to you. One must overlook what difficulty he occasioned for some time, only he should try to make up for his slowness by assiduity when he has once arrived. This I expect he will be entirely prepared to do. For I know him to be an upright man and one who is diligent in his business. I know that he will be so commended to you that there is no need of words [from me.] His wife will get accustomed

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Counsels and encouragements—collection of commentaries on Isaiah by Des Gallars.

Counsels and encouragements—collection of commentaries on Isaiah by Des Gallars.

Geneva , 7th March 1550 . I am happy that you have returned safely from England. If your affairs here are satisfactory and prosperous, and the Lord is providing you with employment, I am the more delighted, although, as matters now stand everywhere, it becomes us so to walk in the world that we may be willing forthwith to depart. England seems as yet unsettled. Elsewhere, whatever was satisfactorily established appears now to decay. So that, unless we can preserve our patience, we shall nowhere

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Settlement of the Colladon family at Geneva.

Settlement of the Colladon family at Geneva.

12th May 1550. I have at present no other reason for writing you than that I thought it absurd that a messenger, sent with difficulty hither from so intimate a friend, and on business well known to me, should return without a letter from me. I was afraid, also, at the same time, lest your brother should entertain unpleasant suspicions should he hear that I had been altogether silent. My friend Laurent at present declines the journey to which you urge him; his excuse is brief, but such as we both

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Notice of a publication attributed to Gruet.

Notice of a publication attributed to Gruet.

[ May 1550. ] Seeing that it has pleased Messieurs to ask my opinion regarding the book of Gruet, it appears to me, that in the first place, they ought in regular judicial form to identify the handwriting, not so much for the condemnation of the individual, who is quite enough condemned already, as for the consequences which may ensue; as well in order that it may not be thought that they have been lightly moved on account of an uncertain book, as for the sake of adherents and accomplices. That

4 minute read

Read Chapter

Controversies excited in Germany by the establishment of the Interim—Brotherly reproofs.

Controversies excited in Germany by the establishment of the Interim—Brotherly reproofs.

[ 18th June 1550. ] The ancient satirist once said,— "Si natura negat, facit indignatio versum." It is at present far otherwise with me. So little does my present grief aid me in speaking, that it rather renders me almost entirely speechless. Besides, as I cannot express in words how my mind is affected, being overcome with merely thinking on the subject on which I am about to write, I am almost struck dumb. I would have you suppose me to be groaning rather than speaking. It is too well known, f

6 minute read

Read Chapter

Hope of an early visit from Viret—projected excursions in the neighbourhood of Geneva.

Hope of an early visit from Viret—projected excursions in the neighbourhood of Geneva.

Geneva , 22d July 1550 . When some one or other informed me lately that you intended coming here in a short time, I snatched eagerly at the intelligence, just as if you had been bound to come by a previous agreement. If you do think of coming, I beseech you, again and again, to stay a Sabbath with us, for you could not have a better opportunity during the whole year. You will deliver a discourse in the city on the morning of the Lord's day. I shall set out for Jussy; you will follow me after din

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Opinion regarding Vergerio—intelligence regarding Bucer—letter to Melanchthon—disputes with Berne—literary publications of Calvin.

Opinion regarding Vergerio—intelligence regarding Bucer—letter to Melanchthon—disputes with Berne—literary publications of Calvin.

July 1550. Although I have not been able to secure a messenger for a long time, who might convey my letter to you with convenience and safety, yet I must really confess that I am ashamed of my long delay. But you will readily excuse me; and I can with truth declare, that I would gladly have written you on different occasions had I been able sooner to find a messenger. It is not expedient for us, in my opinion, to be anxious about our exculpation with the people of Zurich, lest some groundless su

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Exhortation to the study of the Scriptures.

Exhortation to the study of the Scriptures.

24th July 1550. Although we have been unknown to each other by sight, yet since you recognize the Master Christ in my ministry, and submit yourself cheerfully and calmly to his teaching, this is a sufficient reason why I should, on the other hand, esteem you as a brother and fellow-disciple. But, as I understand from your letter, that it is not very long since the Lord shed the light of his gospel on you, I could not give a fitter expression of my love towards you, than by exhorting and encourag

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Publication of the book on Scandals—persecution by the King of France—Bucer's discouragement.

Publication of the book on Scandals—persecution by the King of France—Bucer's discouragement.

Geneva , 19th August 1550 . How I am to repay you for your letter, I know not, unless that, as soon as the Lord shall have enabled me to complete the first three chapters of my Commentary on Genesis , I give you a reading of it. If it please you, it will be worth the trouble of plucking the fruit before the time; and besides, I shall have the benefit of your judgment on the remainder of the context, if you should think there is anything of which I should be made aware. The pamphlet De Scandalis

3 minute read

Read Chapter

State of religion in England—Calvin's literary labours—arrival of Robert Stephens at Geneva.

State of religion in England—Calvin's literary labours—arrival of Robert Stephens at Geneva.

Geneva , 10th November 1550 . As for the circumstances of the English king, I simply charged Hugo to inform you, that the success of the Gospel in that country was highly gratifying. The French and the Germans are allowed to adopt the plain and simple mode of administering the sacraments, practised by us. So well disposed was the King himself to religious matters, that he showed some kindness even to me. But as you will learn all this better from the letter of Utenhoven, I shall not add more. [3

4 minute read

Read Chapter

Misconduct of a servant of M. de Falais.

Misconduct of a servant of M. de Falais.

This 24th of December (1550.) Monseigneur ,—I thank you in the name of all, for the trouble you have been pleased to take in helping us, if perchance the bad business which has been going on underhand can be set right. [311] I find, however, that the examination will not be sufficient to enable us to get to the bottom of it. We have of course forbidden all intercourse for the future between the young man and that unhappy woman. But it will be a more difficult matter to bring home to their consci

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Explanations on the subject of the abolition of the great festivals at Geneva.

Explanations on the subject of the abolition of the great festivals at Geneva.

Geneva , 2d January 1551 . I desire you, my dear Haller, not to measure my affection for you by my not writing to you and to our friend Musculus, of late, to lighten the domestic affliction under which you both laboured. [314] There is no need for my occupying many words in expressing how anxious I was about your danger, from the time that I heard of your houses being visited by the plague. But as this remembrance should not be more pleasing to kind-hearted and considerate men than the duty of w

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Criticism of a mandate published by the Seigneurs of Berne.

Criticism of a mandate published by the Seigneurs of Berne.

4th January 1551. What else can we say, my dear Viret, of those men destitute of the Spirit of God, but that they have lost their wits? For from that very trivial circumstance in which they have betrayed their infatuation, we conjecture what violent decrees they would have passed if matters should ever come to a serious issue. I have no doubt but the taunt of some Papist, rashly uttered over his cups, has so stunned them, that they have immediately hatched this mode of propitiating them. But in

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Explanations regarding various points of doctrine in dispute between the Romish and the Reformed Churches.

Explanations regarding various points of doctrine in dispute between the Romish and the Reformed Churches.

Geneva , 19th January 1551 . My dear Brother ,—As God has called you to give testimony to his Gospel, never doubt that he will strengthen you in the might of his Spirit; and that, as he has already begun, so he must needs perfect his work, manifesting himself victorious in you against his enemies. It is true that the triumphs of Jesus Christ are despised by the world; for while we are under reproach, the wicked are glorifying themselves in their pride, but yet are they still confounded by the po

13 minute read

Read Chapter

Various particulars—literary labours of Theodore Beza.

Various particulars—literary labours of Theodore Beza.

Geneva , 24th January 1551 . I send you a reading of three letters, that I may not be any longer in your debt. For Toussain commends himself to your prayers, and Farel is desirous of your advice, so I thought that you would be interested in the letters of both. I wished you to know also what answer Haller gave me. I am glad that he received me with such moderation, because of the harsh violence with which many attack me. But more of all this when I shall see you. You cannot believe how much I am

1 minute read

Read Chapter

He exhorts him to persevere in the work of the Reformation in his kingdom—enumeration of abuses—ceremonies—ecclesiastical elections—universities.

He exhorts him to persevere in the work of the Reformation in his kingdom—enumeration of abuses—ceremonies—ecclesiastical elections—universities.

From Geneva , ( January 1551. ) Sire ,—If I must excuse myself towards your Majesty for having used the boldness to dedicate these books which I now present to you, I would need to find an advocate to speak a word for me. For so far would my letter be from having credit enough to do that, that it would even stand in need of a fresh excuse. And, indeed, as I never should have taken upon me to address the Commentaries to you which I have published with your name, neither should I have ventured now

7 minute read

Read Chapter

He excuses the infrequency of his letters, and urges the publication of the Consensus.

He excuses the infrequency of his letters, and urges the publication of the Consensus.

Geneva , 17th February 1551 . Although you readily excuse the fewness of my letters, and even, with your usual courtesy, voluntarily relieve me of that duty, I nevertheless feel ashamed of my exceeding indolence and negligence, in having been less attentive to you than to some of my every-day friends. But indeed the reason of this is, that others, by their violent importunity, shake me free of my listlessness. You, with a more generous indulgence, allow me to be silent; and indeed I am so much e

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Thanks for a document—dedication of two commentaries to the King of England—captivity of Bishop Hooper—movements of the Emperor in Germany.

Thanks for a document—dedication of two commentaries to the King of England—captivity of Bishop Hooper—movements of the Emperor in Germany.

Geneva , 12th March 1551 . I was met by a messenger bearing your letter, when lately on my way to Neuchatel. After my return home, I received another from a certain Italian, together with the fifth Decade . [325] You say by way of apology for sending your books, that you do not do so in order that I may learn from you; for my part, as I am desirous to make my labours beneficial to all good men, so on the other hand, I am glad to profit by the writings of others. And indeed intercourse like this

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Mention of a letter to the Duke of Somerset—Re-opening of the Council of Trent—symptoms of war in Europe.

Mention of a letter to the Duke of Somerset—Re-opening of the Council of Trent—symptoms of war in Europe.

Geneva , 10th April 1551 . I have received two letters from you within these few days, both full of remarkable good-will towards me, and therefore very agreeable. It is well that God has not only bestowed on us the same desire to incite the English King and his advisers to go on, but has also made our plans so fitly to harmonize. [329] This circumstance will surely have some influence in confirming them. I begin now to look every day for the return of the messenger who carried thither my books w

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Death of Bucer and of Joachim Vadian.

Death of Bucer and of Joachim Vadian.

Geneva , 10th May 1551 . Although you have received no letters from me for a considerable time, let me tell you, that you have, on that account, been a source of constant and even anxious thought to me. The grief which I have suffered at the death of Bucer increases my anxiety and fear. I have now again experienced a fresh wound from the death of Vadian, whose labour, although of wide influence, and calculated to be felt throughout the entire Church, was nevertheless of especial use in the state

55 minute read

Read Chapter

Renewed expressions of regret for the death of Vadian and Bucer—controversies excited by Osiandor—numerous migrations to Geneva—commencement of hostilities in Italy.

Renewed expressions of regret for the death of Vadian and Bucer—controversies excited by Osiandor—numerous migrations to Geneva—commencement of hostilities in Italy.

Geneva , 15th June 1551 . Nicolas [334] has at length returned from England, having been detained for eleven days by head winds, and afterwards tossed about by so severe a tempest, that he scarcely escaped shipwreck. He reports that he was so kindly and affectionately received, that I have good reason to congratulate myself that my labour was spent to the best advantage. After having delivered my letter to the Duke of Somerset, and having said that he had another also for the King, the Duke hims

4 minute read

Read Chapter

Sickness of Theodore Beza—Calvin's grief.

Sickness of Theodore Beza—Calvin's grief.

30th June 1551. When the messenger presented himself with your letter to Beza, I was seized with fresh alarm, and, at the same time, weighed down with a load of grief. For I was informed, the day before, that he had been seized with the plague. I was therefore not only troubled about the danger he was in, but from my very great affection for him I felt almost overpowered, as if I was already lamenting his death; although, indeed, this grief did not rise so much from private regard, as from my pu

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Protestations of attachment—reforms required in the Church of England—squandering of the revenues of benefices and of the universities.

Protestations of attachment—reforms required in the Church of England—squandering of the revenues of benefices and of the universities.

From Geneva , this 25th July 1551 . Monseigneur ,—I know not how to thank you enough for the kind reception which my messenger has met with from you, not merely in that you have been pleased to take the trouble of offering my books to the King, but for all other proofs of the singular friendly affection which you have hitherto graciously shown me. As for the youth whom you have taken into your service, I should not have had the boldness to write to you about him, had I not thought, as was genera

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Reply to the attacks of Pighius, and of George of Sicily.

Reply to the attacks of Pighius, and of George of Sicily.

[ Geneva ,] 15th August 1551 . I regret the postponement of the Council, now when it is too late. Send for me, however, when you think fit; although it will be much more convenient, in another respect, for you to come to us. I send you the ravings of George of Sicily, which the Italian brethren wish me to refute. [343] I have declined, however, as there would be no end to replies if every single dog of that sort were to be silenced by a special treatise. It is better, therefore, that many do not

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Arrest of a minister from Neuchatel in France—steps for obtaining his release.

Arrest of a minister from Neuchatel in France—steps for obtaining his release.

Geneva , 5th September 1551 . When the melancholy tidings reached this place that Hugues, [344] with five other brethren, and a lady of rank, had been seized in the neighbourhood of Maçon, we at once resolved to inform you of it, that you might at least aid them with your prayers. For there is no use, in my opinion, in troubling ourselves with the French at present. We know they have a judge who is merciful as well as just. Textor is here, and is unremitting in his endeavours among [his] friends

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Edict of Chateaubriand, in France—attacks on Calvin in Geneva.

Edict of Chateaubriand, in France—attacks on Calvin in Geneva.

Geneva , 15th October 1551 . My slowness in writing to you is owing to the want of messengers. For I do not care for sending a letter which may have lost its interest by being so long in reaching you. When Beza undertook to see my letter delivered to you without delay, I was unwilling to neglect a duty in which I must confess I am too remiss. I do not know how matters are moving in England. The matrimonial alliance with France does not, in my opinion, forebode so much good as many seem to think.

4 minute read

Read Chapter

Statement of the controversy with Bolsec regarding Election.

Statement of the controversy with Bolsec regarding Election.

Geneva , [ October 1551 .] There is one Jerome here, who, having thrown off the monk's cowl, is become one of those strolling physicians, who, by habitual deception and trickery, acquire a degree of impudence which makes them prompt and ready in venturing upon anything whatever. He made an attempt, eight months ago, in a public assembly of our church, to overthrow the doctrine of God's free election, which, as received from the word of God, we teach in common with you. Then, indeed, the impertin

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Recommendations regarding the dispute with Bolsec—request on behalf of the Protestants of France.

Recommendations regarding the dispute with Bolsec—request on behalf of the Protestants of France.

Lausanne , November 1551 . I am compelled to dictate these few lines, being confined to bed with a severe headache. The person who is to deliver my letter to you is my brother's father-in-law. He will, therefore, communicate to me faithfully anything with which you may intrust him. Although in so just and sacred a cause I trust there will be neither difficulty nor delay, yet, as you have especially to do with the general answer of the brethren, I beseech you particularly, and Sulzer also, to und

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Calvin's dissatisfaction with the reply of the ministers of Bâle, and the conduct of Monsieur de Falais regarding the affair with Bolsec.

Calvin's dissatisfaction with the reply of the ministers of Bâle, and the conduct of Monsieur de Falais regarding the affair with Bolsec.

November 1551. I shall attend to your orders. Would that we could obtain our wishes! The ministers of Bâle have replied. We have found by experience how little advice they can give us. Myconius approaches the matter with a certain coldness. There is no use, as you say, in his taking credit to himself for wisdom from his hesitancy. Yet Sulzer writes just as if it would be satisfactory. The Senate had sent their own messenger a short time before. I fear they will repeat the same old song. But if t

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Recommendation of a schoolmaster—complaints against the ministers of Zurich.

Recommendation of a schoolmaster—complaints against the ministers of Zurich.

Geneva , 8th December 1551 . There is little need for my commending the bearer to you, as he is, in my judgment, sufficiently known and approved by you. It is no ordinary proof of his piety and modesty when I state, that not only did he come down to this quarter willingly, but came forward even with eagerness, when I was almost prevented, through bashfulness, from asking him to undertake the matter. Nor have I any doubt but that he will discharge any duty imposed upon him, faithfully and with ca

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Refusal to reply to the curious questions proposed to him by Socin.

Refusal to reply to the curious questions proposed to him by Socin.

[1551.] You are deceived in so far as you entertain the impression that Melanchthon does not agree with us on the doctrine of predestination. I only said briefly that I had a letter written by his own hand, in which he confessed that his opinion agreed with mine. But I can believe all you say, as it is nothing new for him to elude in this matter, the better to rid himself of troublesome inquiries. Certainly no one can be more averse to paradox than I am, and in subtleties I find no delight at al

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Thanks for the zeal manifested on behalf of the faithful in France—Complaints of the conduct of the Ministers of Zurich in the affair of Bolsec.

Thanks for the zeal manifested on behalf of the faithful in France—Complaints of the conduct of the Ministers of Zurich in the affair of Bolsec.

Geneva , January 1552 . You have clearly shown yourself to be what you have always been, by your unremitting endeavours to mitigate the rage of our Pharaoh, and aid our unfortunate brethren. I cannot forget how strenuously and faithfully you have always devoted yourself to this cause. Still, I have good reason to fear that little has been gained by our letters: for the courtiers to frustrate them is nothing wonderful. Indeed, I lately learned as much, in a quiet way, from the royal ambassador wh

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Fresh complaints by Calvin against the ministers of Zurich and Berne—his unpopularity in the latter city—advices to Farel.

Fresh complaints by Calvin against the ministers of Zurich and Berne—his unpopularity in the latter city—advices to Farel.

Geneva , 27th January 1552 . I received your letter lately, in which you asked me silently to repress the feeling of wrong done me by your neighbours. [359] As for the people of Zurich, the die has been cast three days ago. The remedy was in my hands, indeed, until then. But I have no inclination to recall those letters which I have lately despatched. It was absolutely necessary for me afterwards to write to the theologians of Bâle, with whose answer, apparently so cold and empty, I had good gro

4 minute read

Read Chapter

Rigorous and inflexible spirit of Calvin against heresy—Praise of Theodore Beza.

Rigorous and inflexible spirit of Calvin against heresy—Praise of Theodore Beza.

Geneva , January 1552 . Madame ,—I am very sorry that the praiseworthy act which you did about half a year ago, has met with no better return. This is because no good and true servant of God found himself within reach of such help, as that received by as wicked and unhappy a creature as the world contains. Knowing partly the man he was, I could have wished that he were rotting in some ditch; and his arrival gave me as much pleasure as the piercing my heart with a poniard would have done. But nev

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Journey of Calvin and Farel in Switzerland—steps in favour of the Reformed in France—return to the affairs of Bolsec.

Journey of Calvin and Farel in Switzerland—steps in favour of the Reformed in France—return to the affairs of Bolsec.

From an Inn at Basle , 13th March 1552 . When Farel and I left home, we had resolved to visit you. At Berne we altered our plan, for the following reason:—We stated in the senate that there appeared some hope of relief for our unhappy brethren; because the king lately published an edict, in which he makes unusual concessions to the Germans; for in the first place he puts them on an equality with the natives; and further, by an extraordinary indulgence, he grants them the liberty of living accord

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Agreement to the proposal for assembling a General Synod for the more close union of the Reformed Churches.

Agreement to the proposal for assembling a General Synod for the more close union of the Reformed Churches.

Geneva , [ April 1552 .] Your opinion, most distinguished sir, is indeed just and wise, that in the present disordered condition of the Church, no remedy can be devised more suitable than if a general meeting were held of the devout and the prudent, of those properly exercised in the school of God, and of those who are confessedly at one on the doctrine of holiness. For we see how Satan is attempting, by various devices, to extinguish the light of the Gospel, which, by the wonderful goodness of

4 minute read

Read Chapter

Fresh details regarding the persecutions in France.

Fresh details regarding the persecutions in France.

Geneva , Whitsunday 1552 . After having resided for some time at Paris, this pious young man retired among you, and, judging from his conduct, I have no doubt but that he has really the fear of God in him, and is of a truly modest character. He studied the humanities with considerable success, has since entered upon theology, and now, that he may make greater progress in this study, he has resolved to enter your College and Church. Although he is not inclined to trouble you, nor, as I trust, any

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Information on various doctrinal points, and assurances of Christian sympathy.

Information on various doctrinal points, and assurances of Christian sympathy.

From Geneva , this 10th of June 1552 . My very dear Brethren ,—Hitherto I have put off writing to you, fearing that if the letter fell into bad hands, it might give fresh occasion to the enemy to afflict you. And besides, I had been informed how that God wrought so powerfully in you by his grace, that you stood in no great need of my letters. However, we have not forgotten you, neither I nor all the brethren hereabouts, as to whatever we have been able to do for you. As soon as you were taken, w

6 minute read

Read Chapter

Dedication of a new work, and Christian exhortations.

Dedication of a new work, and Christian exhortations.

From Geneva , this 4th July 1552 . Sire ,—Although I ought to fear lest my importunity may prove troublesome to your Majesty, and have indeed on that account abstained from writing to you more frequently, nevertheless, I have had the boldness to send you, together with my letters, a short exposition which I have composed of the 78th (87th) [378] Psalm, hoping that you would take pleasure in it, and also that the reading thereof might be profitable to you. As I was one day expounding it in a serm

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Calvin exhorts him to prosecute with fresh zeal the Reformation of the Church in England, by purging it of the relics of Popery.

Calvin exhorts him to prosecute with fresh zeal the Reformation of the Church in England, by purging it of the relics of Popery.

[ July 1552. ] Seeing that, at the present time, that which is most of all to be desired is least likely to be attained, viz., that an assembly of the most eminent men of learning, from all the various Churches which have embraced the pure doctrine of the Gospel, after having discussed separately the controverted topics of the day, might transmit to posterity, out of the pure word of God, a true and distinct confession; I nevertheless highly commend the plan which you, reverend sir, have adopted

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Thanks for the zeal manifested by him on behalf of the prisoners of Lyons.

Thanks for the zeal manifested by him on behalf of the prisoners of Lyons.

This 10th of August 1552. Very dear Sir and Brother ,—We are all bound to give thanks to God for having made choice of you to assist our poor brethren who are detained in prison by the enemies of the faith, and having so strengthened you by the power of his Spirit, that you spare no pains in so doing. I say that we are bound to give thanks to Him; for we must needs recognize this work as his, and that it is he alone who has disposed and directed you thereto. You have also reason to rejoice at th

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Exhortations to harmony—Is it lawful to call Mary the Mother of God, and to pray for the Pope?

Exhortations to harmony—Is it lawful to call Mary the Mother of God, and to pray for the Pope?

From Geneva , this 27th September 1552 . Very dear and honoured Brethren ,—As I desire your quiet, to the end that, being at peace among yourselves, you may be the better enabled and disposed to serve God, and may do so with the greater courage, I have grieved for the trouble which some inconsiderate people have occasioned you, and grieved doubly because they made a cloak of me and of this Church in order to trouble you. Now, as they did us injustice in that, it appears to me that you ought to h

4 minute read

Read Chapter

Reply of Calvin to the Syndics of Geneva in the case of Trolliet.

Reply of Calvin to the Syndics of Geneva in the case of Trolliet.

6th October 1552. The answer of John Calvin, minister of the word of God in the Church of God, presented this Tuesday, the 6th of October 1552, to our honourable Lords Messieurs the Syndics and Council, against the writing produced on the Monday preceding, by the Seigneur Trolliet:— In the first place, Messieurs, as for what he terms his written defence in his disputation against me, I do not understand what he aims at, nor for what purpose he says this, unless to acquire reputation with the ign

9 minute read

Read Chapter

Conspiracy of the Libertines—energy of the Reformer—struggles of Viret at Lausanne.

Conspiracy of the Libertines—energy of the Reformer—struggles of Viret at Lausanne.

Geneva , 26th October 1552 . I occasionally abstain from writing, from having nothing important to write about, but my material is in these days more abundant than I could wish—so much so, that it has kept me from writing altogether. For I think it better silently to repress the very sad cares which torture me, rather than seek consolation by inconveniencing you. Even if I did throw part of the burden on your shoulders, I should rather increase than diminish the evil. The very act of writing, mo

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Literary labours of Theodore Beza.

Literary labours of Theodore Beza.

Geneva , 26th October 1552 . After I had written Farel, our friend Gerold undertook, at my request, to make a journey thither. There is, accordingly a letter designed for both of you, which, having read, you will show to him at your own convenience. I ask no more of you than that you will think of us when it suits you. Your letter was not to be answered until something important had been done, which has not been the case as yet. You will tell Beza not to be anxious about the translating of my di

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Troubles at Geneva—sad intelligence from France and Germany—steady in the promises of God.

Troubles at Geneva—sad intelligence from France and Germany—steady in the promises of God.

Geneva , 19th November 1552 . As I hope that my dearly beloved brother Beza will be with you about the same time that you receive this letter, and as he will inform you more fully as to my own state and that of the Church than I can in the longest epistle, I shall at present be brief. He will tell you the annoyance and disturbance we suffered from some worthless wretches, whose sole power of injuring us lies in the impunity and license which is allowed them. But God apparently wishes us to be de

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Earnest desires for the continuance of their mutual affection—disputes with Trolliet—longing for agreement in doctrine regarding the Communion and Election.

Earnest desires for the continuance of their mutual affection—disputes with Trolliet—longing for agreement in doctrine regarding the Communion and Election.

28th November 1552. Nothing could have come to me more seasonably at this time than your letter, which I received two months after its despatch. For, in addition to the very great troubles with which I am so sorely consumed, there is almost no day on which some new pain or anxiety does not occur. I should, therefore, be in a short time entirely overcome by the load of evils under which I am oppressed, did not the Lord by his own means alleviate their severity; among which it was no slight consol

8 minute read

Read Chapter

Rupture of Calvin with that Seigneur.

Rupture of Calvin with that Seigneur.

[ Geneva , 1552.] Monseigneur ,—Since you esteem your cause with respect to me so good, I shall not add to your satisfaction by avowing myself in the wrong, which indeed would be mere hypocrisy on my part. For I know that I myself had already long ago pointed out to you the conduct of the man, and his acts are moreover matter of public notoriety. Since that time you have bestowed on him such eulogiums, that the person who recited them to me employed these words, that he had never heard of a man

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Exhortation to patience and constancy under persecution.

Exhortation to patience and constancy under persecution.

The 10th of January 1553. Very dear Brother ,—Although I have not at present to sustain the like conflicts that you have, yet you will suffer the word of exhortation from me as if I were your fellow-prisoner, and in truth the zeal which moves me to write to you proceeds from nothing else. Yet I pray you to consider how we ought to refer all to the will and disposal of our heavenly Father, who calls every one of us in the order that he pleases. Sometimes he spares his children, until he has gradu

4 minute read

Read Chapter

Congratulations on the subject of his approaching marriage—Calvin's regret that he cannot be present at the ceremony.

Congratulations on the subject of his approaching marriage—Calvin's regret that he cannot be present at the ceremony.

Geneva , 13th January 1553 . I am exceedingly glad that you are about to get married, not only because it will be for your own private good, but also because the brethren have considered it to be for the good of the whole Church. [408] And while I do not indeed know enough of the lady, yet I confidently trust, from various conjectures, that each of you will turn out according to our wishes. We have good reason, therefore to congratulate you, and we feel thankful to God in no ordinary degree. I s

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Calvin apologizes for silence, and enjoins him to use his influence with the King for the advancement of the Gospel in England.

Calvin apologizes for silence, and enjoins him to use his influence with the King for the advancement of the Gospel in England.

Geneva , 13th Feb. 1553 . I have hitherto avoided writing you, most distinguished sir, lest I should perhaps seem anxious to obtain what my own inclinations did not prompt. For as the friendships of the world are hollow, and ambition and deception everywhere prevail, so that those who cultivate sincerity are exceedingly few, it is absolutely necessary for us almost to regard all with suspicion whose uprightness of character we have not thoroughly tested. I have at length, however, found an excee

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Exhortations to constancy—Mention of Oritz, the Inquisitor.

Exhortations to constancy—Mention of Oritz, the Inquisitor.

7th March 1553. My Brethren ,—We have been for some days past in deeper anxiety and sadness than ever, having heard of the resolve taken by the enemies of the truth. When the gentleman you wot of passed this way, [415] while he was dining very hurriedly, to avoid all delay, I drew up such a form of letters as seemed to me expedient to write. God has given, both to you and all his people, some further respite; we wait the event as it shall please him to dispose it, always praying him to uphold yo

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Recommendation of a French gentleman, a prisoner for the sake of the Gospel.

Recommendation of a French gentleman, a prisoner for the sake of the Gospel.

From Geneva , this 12th March 1553 . Sire ,—Although I had a petition to make to you for myself, I should not have the boldness to urge it, yet I think that you will not take it amiss, that I should make a request for another, when you are informed of the necessity which constrains me, and the merits of the case, which commends itself to you not less than to myself. It is, Sire, that there is a French gentleman detained prisoner in Paris [417] on account of some intercepted letter written by him

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Serious illness and unexpected recovery of Farel—Calvin's joy.

Serious illness and unexpected recovery of Farel—Calvin's joy.

Geneva , 27th March 1553 . When I recently performed the last offices of a friend towards you, as I indeed thought, I was desirous of escaping the remainder of the grief which was incidental to your premature death. I have suffered the punishment which I deserved for my overhastiness. And would that I had been the only one who suffered it. It made the thing worse, that I involved very many good men in the same grief with myself. Consoled, however, now by more joyful news, I am forgetting my foll

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Last steps in favour of the Prisoners of Lyons.

Last steps in favour of the Prisoners of Lyons.

From the Hostellerie in Lausanne , 28th March 1553 . Very dear Messieurs and Brethren ,—I write you this present letter in much haste, having only just arrived at the town of Lausanne. The occasion of my writing is, that Messieurs of Berne have written so warmly to the king, that if they are ever to obtain anything from him, we hope this appeal may be final. Now, the prisoners have signified that we are to apply to you for the expenses of the journey. We pray you, therefore, to consider and dete

1 minute read

Read Chapter

He entreats his influence in favour of the person already recommended to the King.

He entreats his influence in favour of the person already recommended to the King.

March 1553. When I lately wrote to you my last letter [422] —which may not perhaps be put into your hands until after you have received the present one—nothing was farther from my mind than that I should again trouble you so soon. An unexpected necessity has arisen, however, which compels me, even before I have penned a single friendly letter to you, to solicit you regarding a matter of great importance. A certain man, of a noble family, has been lately thrown into prison, whose kind heart and g

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Christian encouragement and consolation.

Christian encouragement and consolation.

12th April 1553. Monsieur ,—I doubt not that you are at present in very great perplexity, seeing that the rage of the enemies is daily kindling, and dangers increasing more and more. Thus you have much need to have recourse to Him who not in vain claims the office of comforting his people in their afflictions. Although it may be difficult to the weakness of our flesh to continue steadfast when we see no end of warfare; nay more, see that things grow worse; yet when girt about with the armour whi

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Extinction of all hope in regard to the prisoners of Lyons.

Extinction of all hope in regard to the prisoners of Lyons.

Geneva , 22d April 1553 . When the present messenger left Lyons matters stood thus: the majority of the judges were disinclined to agree to the condemnation of the brethren, inasmuch as the king had given no express orders respecting it. The Constable, however, stood alone in opposing this. [426] Good men thought accordingly that something would require to be done. To me indeed their labour appears not only useless, but absurd. For there is no hope of inducing the Bernese, after their insolent r

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Assurances of respect and fraternal affection.

Assurances of respect and fraternal affection.

April 1553. A letter was shown me lately at Farel's, addressed to himself, in which you informed him that you were gradually recovering from a very severe and all but fatal illness. The life of our brother Farel was at that time despaired of; so much so, that on my return, I declared everywhere that he was dead. We have now to offer our sincere thanks to the Lord, who has restored both of you to us and to his Church. I was very glad to find from your letter, three days ago, that you are quite re

3 minute read

Read Chapter

He exhorts them to steadfastness unto the end, in the assurance of eternal joy reserved in heaven.

He exhorts them to steadfastness unto the end, in the assurance of eternal joy reserved in heaven.

From Geneva , May 15, 1553 . My very dear Brothers ,—We have at length heard why the herald of Berne did not return that way. It was because he had not such an answer as we much desired. For the King has peremptorily refused all the requests made by Messieurs of Berne, as you will see by the copies of the letters, so that nothing further is to be looked for from that quarter. Nay, wherever we look here below, God has stopped the way. This is well, however, that we cannot be frustrated of the hop

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Expression of Christian sympathy under trial.

Expression of Christian sympathy under trial.

This 7th of June 1553. Madame ,—Although I am not so devoid of compassion as not to feel my heart pained, in hearing of the more than ever strict captivity in which you are now held, yet I shall not cease to exhort you to furnish yourself with courage and constancy, according as you feel the trial to be vexatious and hard to bear; for it is just when pressed by Satan and the enemies of the faith to the uttermost, that we ought to make the most of the grace of God. St. Paul glories in this, that

4 minute read

Read Chapter

He impresses on them the duty of maintaining their confession of the truth quietly and modestly.

He impresses on them the duty of maintaining their confession of the truth quietly and modestly.

This 7th of July 1553. My Brethren ,—I believe you have been informed that I was absent from town when the tidings from your prison arrived, and did not return for eight days after. I need not, therefore, to excuse myself for having so long delayed writing to you. Now, although these tidings have proved sorrowful to the flesh, even in consequence of the love we justly bear you in God, as we are bound to do, yet must we submit ourselves to the will of this kind Father and sovereign Lord, and not

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Expression of regret for the death of the King of England—sad condition of the German Churches.

Expression of regret for the death of the King of England—sad condition of the German Churches.

Geneva , 3d August 1553 . Paulus an Italian, and a man of tried integrity, on writing lately to our friend Count Celso, stated, among other things, that he had brought a letter for me from the very honourable the Duchess of Ferrara, which he left with you. Seeing that I received a letter from Gualter not long since, in which he makes no mention of such a thing; and seeing, moreover, that John Liner, a merchant of Saint Gall, on passing through this place a short while before, alleged that you ha

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Arrest of Servetus, and institution of the process against him.

Arrest of Servetus, and institution of the process against him.

Geneva , 20th August 1553 . It is as you say, my dear Farel. Although we may be severely buffeted hither and thither by many tempests, yet, seeing that a pilot steers the ship in which we sail, who will never allow us to perish even in the midst of shipwrecks, there is no reason why our minds should be overwhelmed with fear and overcome with weariness. We have now new business in hand with Servetus. He intended perhaps passing through this city; for it is not yet known with what design he came.

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Information regarding various controverted points—exhortation to fidelity, even unto martyrdom.

Information regarding various controverted points—exhortation to fidelity, even unto martyrdom.

This 22d of August 1553 . Very dear Brethren ,—Although when writing your letter you thought that the enemies of truth were about to sacrifice you soon, I do not omit writing to you, so that if it please God that this should arrive in time, you may again have some words of consolation from me. It is very well and very prudently determined by you to give thanks to God, since you know that he has confirmed you anew in his promises, giving you such constancy as you have lately felt in your last rep

6 minute read

Read Chapter

Request for the destruction of the copies at Frankfort of the book of Servetus.

Request for the destruction of the copies at Frankfort of the book of Servetus.

Geneva , August 27, 1553 . Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ, more peculiarly set apart, and my worshipful brethren. You have doubtless heard of the name of Servetus, a Spaniard, who twenty years ago corrupted your Germany with a virulent publication, filled with many pernicious errors. This worthless fellow, after being driven out of Germany, and having concealed himself in France under a fictitious name, lately patched up a larger volume, partly from his f

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Troubles at Geneva—Berthelier and the chiefs of the Libertins are refused admission to the Lord's Table.

Troubles at Geneva—Berthelier and the chiefs of the Libertins are refused admission to the Lord's Table.

Geneva , 4th September 1553 . I was wishing to maintain silence towards you regarding our affairs, that I might not augment your grief to no purpose. But fearing that you might be more deeply affected by divers rumours, I at length thought it better to inform you respecting the principal point. When Berthelier, a year and a half ago, was interdicted the privilege of the Supper, he complained to the senate, and we, to please the scoundrel, were summoned before their assembly. After having heard t

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Deep anxiety on account of the condition of the English Churches—Conference of the Swiss Churches in regard to Servetus.

Deep anxiety on account of the condition of the English Churches—Conference of the Swiss Churches in regard to Servetus.

Geneva , 7th September 1553 . With respect to the letter, I had no doubt but that you made a faithful endeavour, so far as it was your duty, to send it to me in safety. That Jew has deceived you however; at least he has not done what you expected of him. He at length arrived here, but alleged that he had been robbed at Fribourg: he could give no definite account of the letter. As circumstances did not turn out here according to his wishes, he crossed over to England. I informed him that matters

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Statement of the errors of Servetus, and of the duty of the Christian magistrate to repress them.

Statement of the errors of Servetus, and of the duty of the Christian magistrate to repress them.

Geneva , 8th September 1553 . As Michael Servetus, twenty years ago, infected the Christian world with his virulent and pestilential opinions, I should suppose his name is not unknown to you. While you may not have read his book, yet you must have heard something of the sort of doctrines contained in it. It was he whom that faithful minister of Christ, Master Bucer of holy memory, in other respects of a mild disposition, declared from the pulpit to be worthy of having his bowels pulled out, and

3 minute read

Read Chapter

He consoles her under her trials, and exhorts her to use every means to secure her retreat to Geneva.

He consoles her under her trials, and exhorts her to use every means to secure her retreat to Geneva.

From Geneva , this 13th September 1553 . Mademoiselle and very dear Sister ,—I am much grieved by your affliction, not only because the children of God ought to bear each other's burdens, but because I feel the cause for which you suffer to be a common one; for, as I am told, they afflict and detain you captive for having wished to follow Jesus Christ. You have, however, whereof to rejoice in the good testimony which your conscience renders you in the sight of God, that you do not suffer on acco

3 minute read

Read Chapter

Religious counsels, and announcement of the sending of a minister.

Religious counsels, and announcement of the sending of a minister.

This 12th of October 1553. Very dear Brethren ,—We have to praise God that in the captivity wherein you are, he vouchsafes you the strength you ask, to worship him in purity, fearing more the being deprived of his grace, than exposing yourself to the dangers which may perhaps be about to occur to you, owing to the malice of the adversaries; for the brother who is bearer of the present letter, [454] has declared to us that you have requested him to return to you whenever he could; and that you de

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Acknowledgment of Farel's care for the Church of Geneva.

Acknowledgment of Farel's care for the Church of Geneva.

Geneva , 14th October 1553 . I cannot find words, my dear Farel, in which to thank you for the extraordinary interest you take in us, and for your equal regard for this Church. I purposely abstained from, or at all events was more sparing in writing you, as I was afraid to take horseback immediately as you have done. Indeed I did not care for troubling you until the very last, as you said that it would not be acceptable to you if I should spare you. I certainly know well enough, and indeed have

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Deliverance by the Swiss Churches regarding Servetus—vain efforts of Calvin to obtain a mitigation of his punishment.

Deliverance by the Swiss Churches regarding Servetus—vain efforts of Calvin to obtain a mitigation of his punishment.

Geneva , 26th October 1553 . Behold what will give you some gratification. Instead of an epistle, here is a summary which will not occupy long time. The messenger has returned from the Swiss Churches. They are unanimous in pronouncing that Servetus has now renewed those impious errors with which Satan formerly disturbed the Church, and that he is a monster not to be borne. Those of Bâle were judicious. The Zurichers were the most vehement of all; for they not only animadverted in severe terms on

1 minute read

Read Chapter

He encourages her to come out of the spiritual bondage in which she is held.

He encourages her to come out of the spiritual bondage in which she is held.

The 20th of November 1553. Madame and good Sister ,—If God had given you a husband who had been loyal to you, and had lived in concord with you, there would be need to comfort you at present, and to exhort you to patience. But since he who ought to have considered you as dear to him as the half of himself, has been, while he lived, a very severe scourge, you have occasion rather to acknowledge that in removing him our gracious God has acted in mercy towards you. Furthermore, the annoyances which

4 minute read

Read Chapter

Recommendation of several English refugees in Switzerland.

Recommendation of several English refugees in Switzerland.

Geneva , 20th November 1553 . Those Englishmen, on leaving this place to resort to you, requested me to give them an introduction, in order that by your assistance they might secure suitable lodgings. Indeed they were anxious to live with yourself or M. Beza, but they will not urge this, especially as they were informed that they could scarcely expect it. You will, however, receive them as a good and kind host should; for I understand that they are pious and honourable men, and am confident that

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Appeal to the Magistrates of Zurich in reference to ecclesiastical discipline—thanks for the aid afforded by the ministers of that Church in the affair of Servetus.

Appeal to the Magistrates of Zurich in reference to ecclesiastical discipline—thanks for the aid afforded by the ministers of that Church in the affair of Servetus.

Geneva , 26th November 1553 . Here is another new labour for you. Those desirous of living a life of licentiousness, have not ceased for the past seven years to oppose the discipline of the Church, which is in a tolerable state of efficiency here. We would not, however, have been so much annoyed by loose-living men among the common people, if there had not been leaders who wished to convert this license into a means of power. It has now come to this, that whatever church order has hitherto flour

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Account of the struggles at Geneva for the maintenance of ecclesiastical discipline—appeal to the Pastors of Zurich for their influence with the magistrates of that town.

Account of the struggles at Geneva for the maintenance of ecclesiastical discipline—appeal to the Pastors of Zurich for their influence with the magistrates of that town.

Geneva , 26th November 1553 . I feel indeed ashamed, very excellent and sincerely respected brethren, at bringing before you again a new topic of consideration, inasmuch as our Council troubled you lately with the case of Servetus. There is, however, good grounds for excuse in the present instance: for, as the wickedness of certain parties is vaunting itself with a headstrong insolence not to be resisted, the pious and upright are forced to apply to you for aid; and while I am assuredly anxious

7 minute read

Read Chapter

Fresh details regarding ecclesiastical discipline—hope of speedy realization—announcement of the publication of a book against the errors of Servetus.

Fresh details regarding ecclesiastical discipline—hope of speedy realization—announcement of the publication of a book against the errors of Servetus.

Geneva , 30th December 1553 . The messenger arrived six days after I had received your letter. The people of Schaffhausen give a pious and judicious reply; those of Bâle give a very meagre response; they offer us almost no advice, sending us simply a copy of their edicts, without, however, pronouncing any judgment. Our brother, Sulzer, earnestly apologizes for not having been able to accomplish more. And I can perceive, in various ways, indeed, most upright and respected brother, how strenuously

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Assistance afforded to the faithful refugees in Switzerland—reply of the Churches on the subject of ecclesiastical discipline.

Assistance afforded to the faithful refugees in Switzerland—reply of the Churches on the subject of ecclesiastical discipline.

Geneva , 30th December 1553 . Good men have indeed sent money to be laid out on the banished brethren and the exiles. They have ordered one part to be distributed among us, and they have designed the other two parts for the poor of Lausanne and your own city. Our friend Beza caused twenty-five gold pieces to be handed over to them. However, as but few exiles have hitherto gone among you, so far as I know, especially of that sort which is so numerous here, might you not, if you are not in immedia

1 minute read

Read Chapter

He exhorts her to withdraw, by a voluntary exile, from the persecution and idolatry reigning in Italy.

He exhorts her to withdraw, by a voluntary exile, from the persecution and idolatry reigning in Italy.

[1553.] Though I knew, noble lady, that you would have need of an interpreter to understand my letters, yet some friends have encouraged me to write to you, or rather they have warmly pressed on me the accomplishment of that duty. But for that purpose I have made choice of the Latin language, because I was confident that you would find about you many persons to translate it into Italian, whereas the knowledge of French is unknown, or very rare among you. And first of all, that my letter may not

5 minute read

Read Chapter

Christian exhortations—sending of a minister.

Christian exhortations—sending of a minister.

Dearest Seigneur and brother ,—We praise God for having inclined your heart to try if it will be possible to erect, by your means, a small church on the place where you reside. And indeed according as the agents of the Devil strive by every act of violence to abolish the true religion, extinguish the doctrine of salvation, and exterminate the name of Jesus Christ, it is very just that we should labour on our side to further the progress of the gospel, that, by these means, God may be served in p

27 minute read

Read Chapter