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^THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY, |
Princeton, N. J.
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PRESCNTCD BY
THE PRESBYTERIAN BOARD OF PUBLICATION
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sec
/OS/
V, 2L..
LETTERS
OP
JOHN CALVIN
COMPILED FROM THE ORIGINAL JLA.NUSCRIPTS AND EDITED WITH HISTORICAL NOTES
DR. JULES BONNET. VOL. II.
TRANSLATED FROM THE LATIN AND FRENCH LANGUAGESL
PHILADELPHIA : PRESBYTERIAN BOARD OF PUBLICATION,
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.
CONTENTS.
1545.
LETTER PAGE
CXLTV. To ViRET. — Unpopularity of Calvin — various advices, . 15
CXLV. To Monsieur de Falais. — Exhortation to glorify God amid
poverty and persecution, . . . . .16
CXLVI. To Madame de Palais. — Congratulations on the constancy manifested by her in the midst of trials — salutations from the suffering Idelette de Bure, . . . .19
CXLYII. To Monsieur de Falais. — Vanity of trust reposed in the
princes of this world — confidence in God, . . .20
CXLVIII. To Farel. — Captivity of Farel's brother — ravages of the
plague in Geneva, . . . . .22
CXUX. To ViRET. — Dispersion of the School at Geneva — contests at Neuchatel on the subject of church property — Calvin's opinion of Farel, . . . . . .24
CL. To Monsieur de Falais. — Prayers for his restoration to
health, ....... 26
1546.
CLI. To Farel. — News from Germany —journey of the French Ambassador to Geneva — details concerning the condition of the town, . . . . . .26
CLII. To Monsieur de Palais. — Calvin dedicates to him one of
his Commentaries, . . . . .29
CLTII. To John Frellon. — Rupture of the relations between Cal- vin and Servetus, . . . . . .30
CLTV. To Farel. — Reply to various questions — terrible threat against Servetus — imprisonment of one of the leaders of the Libertins, . . . . . .31
CLV. To Farel. — Pacification of the Church at Xenchatel — report of the speedy arrival of the Emperor in Savoy — dangers at Geneva — withering mention of Francis I., . .34
(3)
4: CONTENTS.
LETTER PAGE
CLVI. To YiRKT.— Election of a minister at Neuchatel — sickness of
Yiret's wife, . . . . • .36
CLVn. To ViRET. — Calvin invites his friend to repair to Geneva after
the death of his wife, . . . . .37
CLVIII. To ViRET. — Renewed and more pressing invitation to come
to Geneva, . . . . • .38
CLIX. To Thkodore Vitus. — Indication of the various documents wherein are set forth the opinions of Calvin regarding the Lord's Supper — earnest desires for union and peace among the Churches — condition of Geneva, . . .39
CLX. To YiRET. — Instructions to Viret about a journey to Geneva, 42 CLXI. To Monsieur de Falais. — Calvin's labours — the diet at Ra- tisbon— the Church of Metz — the Reformation at Heidel- berg— Apology for ]\I. de Falais — opinion regarding the sermons of Ochino, . . . . .43
CLXn. To Monsieur de Faj.ais. — 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 Ge- neva— death of Juan Diaz, . . . .47
CLXIIL To Farel. — Troubles at Geneva — imprisonment of the seve- ral members of the family of Favre — account of the assas- sination of John Diaz at Neubourg, . . .52 CLXIV. To Amy Perrin. — Complaints regarding the conduct of Per- . riu — firm and courageous declaration by the Reformer of his resolution to persevere in his duty unto death, . 56 CLXV. To Farel and Viret. — Requests in favour of the faithful in
France, . . . . . . .58
CLXVI. To Madame de Falais. — Expression of Christian sympathy
and condolence on occasion of the illness of M. de Falais, 60 CLXVn. To Farel. — Excitement caused at Geneva by the Represen- tation of a Play, . . . . . .61
CLXVIII. To Monsieur de Falais. — Proposals of matrimony on behalf
of Viret, ....... 63
CLXIX. To Viret. — Account of the steps taken relative to his mar- riage, . . . . . . .65
CLXX. To Viret. — Fresh details regarding the projects for his mar- riage, , . .' . . . .65
CLXXI. To Viret. — Same subject as the preceding, . . .68
CLXXII. To Viret. — Breaking off of tlie match treated of in the pre- ceding letters, . . . . . .68
CLXXIII. To Farel. — Violence of the family of Amy Perrin — decla- mations of the wife of Froment against the ministers of Geneva, . . . . . . .70
CliXXrV. To Farel. — Calvin's indisposition — literary labours — appa- rent reconciliation with Perrin and his family, . . 72
CONTENTS. 5
STTER pjVQg
CLXXV. To Monsieur de Falais. — Recurrence to the matrimo- nial projects of Viret — explanations on various sub- jects, . . . . . . .74
CLXXVI. To Madame de Falais. — Sad communication to be made
to M. de Falais — promise to send several discourses, . 76 CLXXYII. To Monsieur dr Falais. — Congratulations on his conva- lescence— uncertainty of prospects in Germany — confi- dence in the all-powerful protection of God, . . 77 CLXXVIII. To Monsieur de Falais. — Excuses for Viret — uses of sickness — various rumours concerning the war in Ger- many— explanations on the subject of the Supper, . 79 CTiXXIX. To Monsieur de Falais. — Consolations on the death of
his sister, . . . . . .84
CLXXX. To Madame de Falais. — Assurances of afiFection for her- self and her husband, . . . . .85
CTiXXXT. To Viret. — Statement of the expense of a visit to Lau- sanne, on the occasion of Viret's marriage — ecclesiasti- cal difficulties at Berne, . . . .86
CTiXXXn. To Monsieur de Falais. — Military movements in Switzerland — policy of the Cantons in reference to the Emperor, . . . . . .88
CtXXXni. To INIadame de Bud6. — Calvin exhorts this lady to leave
France, and retire with her family to Geneva, . 90
1547.
CLXXXTV. To THE Avoter Nceouelt. — Complaints of the miscon- duct of several ministers in the Pays de Vaud, . 94 CLXXXV. To Farel. — Mission of Calvin in Switzerland — disposi- tions of the various Cantons, . . . .95 CLXXXVI. To Monsieur de Falais. — Search for a house for that gentleman in Geneva — various details — mention of Charles V. and Francis I., . . . .97 CLXXX VII. To Monsieur de Falais. — Instructions regarding the Apology — alarming rumours current at Geneva — Cal- vin's confidence, ..... 100 CLXXXVIII. To Monsieur de Falais. — Disputes of M. de Falais with Valeran Poulain — reports of the expected arrival of the former in Geneva, . . . . .102 To Valeran Poulain. — Severe reprobation of his be- haviour towards M. de Falais — reply to a calumny di- rected against the Reformer, .... 104 CXC. To Viret. — "Weakness of the Genevese magistracy — ex- pectation of Viret's arrival in Geneva, . . 106
6 CONTENTS.
LETTER PAGE
CXCI. To WoLFGAXG MuscuLus. — Anxiety regarding the Churches
of Germany — advice to Musculus, . . . 108
CXCII. To ]\roN-.siEUR DE Falais. — Steps taken at Basle to retract a
promise of marriage made to Yaleran Poulain, . . 110
CXCIII. To Francis Dryander. — Confused state of the Church —
hopes and fears for the future, . . . .Ill
CXCIY. To Monsieur de Falais. — The sending of a minister — per- plexities regarding anticipated events in Germany, . 113 CXCV. To Monsieur de Falais. — Information in regard to a house — advice on the subject of a marriage proposed for a rela- tive of Monsieur de Falais, . - . .114 CXCVI. To Viret. — Interview of Calvin with a senator of Berne — ■
advantage secured over the party of the Libertius, . 116
CXCVII. To Monsieur de Falais. — Recommendation of John de Bud6
— uncertainty of the news from Germany, . . 118
CXCVIII. To Monsieur de Bude. — He exhorts him to follow the ex- ample of the rest of his family, and retire to Geneva, . 119 CXCIX. To Viret. — Citation before the Consistory of the wife of
Amy Perrin — case of Gruet — news from Germany, . 122
CC. To Monsieur de Falais. — Solemn lessons afforded by the sad occurrences in Germany — troubles in Geneva — energetic attitude of Calvin, . . . . .125
CCI. To Viret. — Indecision of the Seigneurs of Geneva — inflexi- bility of Calvin, . . . . . .128
ecu. To TUE Faithful of France. — State of Germany — details regarding the struggles of the Reformer in the cause of the truth at Geneva, ...... 129
CCin. To Monsieur de Falais. — Thanksgivings for the happy de- liverance 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, . .132
CCrV. To Farel. — False report of Calvin's death — proposition (query) by the wife of Amy Perrin — calumnious accusa- tion against Idelette de Bure — ^journey of Farel to Geneva, 137 CCV. To Viret. — Mention of a letter from M. de Falais — Emman- uel Tremelli — a book by Viret — journey of Bud6 and Ni- colas des Gallars to Paris, , . . , 139 CCVI. To Monsieur de Fai.ais. — Dedication of the Apology — men- tion of M. de Mommor — sickness of Maldonado, . , 141 CCVII. To Henry Bullinger. — Comments by Calvin on a work by Bullinger — state of Germany and Italy — policy of the Cantons, . . . . . . .143
CCVin. To Monsieur de Falais. — Return of Nicolas des Gallars —
stay of Farel and Viret at Geneva, . . , 145
CONTENTS. 7
LETTER PAGE
CCIX. To Monsieur de Falais. — Re-assuring intelligence on tbc
state of Geneva — restoration of Maldonado, . . 146
OCX. To Farel. — Sad state of the Republic — discouragement of
the Reformer, ...... 147
CCXT. To ViRET. — Rising at the IIGtel de Villc — heroic bearing
of Calvin — trust in God alone, . . . .148
CCXTI. To Monsieur de Falais. — Printing of Tlie Apology —
troubles at Geneva, . . . . . 1 r)0
CCXIII. To YiRET. — Invitation to come to Geneva, . . . lol
CCXIV. To Farel. — Publication of The Antidote — statement re- garding the condition of Geneva, . . . 152 CCXV. To THE Family of Bud^. — Consolations on occasion of the
Death of one of its Members, . . . .154
1548.
CCXYI. To Monsieur de Falais. — Cost of printing of TJie Apology
— despatch of several copies, .... 157 OCX VII. To Monsieur de Falais. — Particulars regarding bis de- parture, and the purchase of a property near Geneva, . 159 CCXVni. To Henry Bullinger. — Brotherly explanations regarding
the difference on the subject of the Communion, . 160
CCXIX. To Monsieur de Fai^is. — Obstacles to his departure —
delay of some months, . . . . .162
CCXX. To Farel. — Distressing condition of the Swiss churches, . 164 CCXXI. To Farel and Viret. — Disputes among the ministers of
Berne — and Calvin's journey thither, . . . 165
CCXXII. To Viret. — Communications regarding affairs at Berne, . 166 CCXXIII. To YiRET. — Ecclesiastical tyranny of the Seigneurs of Berne
— sojourn of Idelette de Bure at Lausanne, . .167
CCXXTV. To Henry Bullinger. — New explanations regarding the Supper — violence of some of the Bernese ministers — Cal- vinism and Baceranism, . . . . .168 CCXXV. To Monsieur de Falais. — Preparations for the marriage
of Mademoiselle de Wilergy, his relation, . .173
CCXXVI. To Farel. — Uncertainty regarding the disposition of the Cantons — stay of Monsieur and Madame de Falais in Calvin's house, . . . .• . .175
CCXXV 11. To Viret. — Embarrassment occasioned to Calvin by the
treacherous publication of one of his letters to Viret, , 176 CCXX VIII. To A French Seigneur. — Exhortation to come to Geneva,
that he might there serve the Lord faithfully, . .179
8 CONTENTS.
UTTER PAQB
CCXXIX. To TOE Protector Somerset. — 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, . . . 182
CCXXX. To Farel. — Election of new magistrates at Geneva —
troubles in France — letter from Bucer, . . 198
CCXXXI. To John Sturm. — Evidences of faith and Christian stead- fastness, amid the dangers that threaten the Church, . 200
1549.
CCXXXII. To Madame de Cant. — Exhortation to a courageous and
honest profession of the truth, .... 201
CCXXXIII. To Mademoiseijle de . . . . — Exhortations to steadfast- ness in the faith — acknowledgment of liberality, . 205 CCXXXIY. To THE Ministers op the Church of Montbeliard. — Ex- hortations to discharge to the end their ministerial duties, . . . . . .208
CCXXXV. To Henry Bullinger. — Hope of Union with the theolo- gians of Zurich — dedication of several writings, . 210 CCXXXVI. To Bucer. — Consolations to be found in the study of di- vine and everlasting truth, .... 212
CCXXXVn. To THE Pastors of the Church op Berne. — Desire of
union between the Churches of Berne and Geneva, . 214 CCXXXVm. To Viret.— Death of Idelette de Bure, the wife of Cal- vin, . . . . . . .216
CCXXXIX. To Farel.— Further details regarding the death of Ide- lette de Bure, . . . . . .217
CCXL. To Madame de Cany. — Account of the instructive death
of Madame Laurent de Normandie, . . .219
CCXLI. To YiRET. — Various particulars — recommendation of
Francis Hotman, Jurisconsult, . . .223
CCXLII. To Henry Bullinger. — Pleading in favour of the alli- ance of the Eeformed Cantons with France, . . 225 CCXLIII. To Madame de la Eoche-Posay. — He exhorts her and her companions to live in conformity with the law of
God, 229
CCXLTV. To Bucer. — 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 Ge- neva and Zurich, ..... 232
CONTENTS. 9
UTTER FAOE
CCXLV. To Lady Anne Seymour. — Tlianks to the Duchess of Somer- set, the mother of Anne Seymour — exhortation to perse- verance in the true faith, .... 236
CCXLYI. To Farel.— Reply by the Protector of England to a letter
from Calvin, . . . . . .238
CCXLVII. To Farel. — Imprisonment of two brothers of M. de Falais
— persecution in the Low Countries and in France, . 239 CCXLVIII. To YiRET. — Negotiations iu reference to the publication of
the Consensus — George, Count of Montbeliard, . 240
CCXLIX. To THE Pastors of the Church op Zurich. — Urgent re- commendation of the adoption of a fixed formulary in the celebration of the Lord's Supper, . . . 241
CCL. To BuLLiNQEB. — Rcvlsal of the Formulary — persecutions
in France, ...... 243
CCLI. To Farel and Viret. — Letter concerning Yergerio — his- tory of Francis Spira, ..... 245
CCLII. To Farel. — Criticism on a work by Farel, . . 246
CCLIII. To YiRET. — First mention of Theodore Beza — poverty of
Calvin's colleagues, ..... 248
CCLIY. To John Haller. — A reformer's complaints on the malevo- lence of the Bernese ministers, .... 249
CCLY. To "Wolfgang Musoulus. — Prohibition of the Yaudois Con- ferences— remonstrances on the intolerance of the Ber- nese ministers towards those of France, . . . 251 CCLYI. To Monsieur de Saint Laurens. — Statement of leading
articles of the Reformed Faith, .... 253
1550.
CCLYIL To THE Protector Somerset. — Congratulations on the royal favour shown to the Duke of Somerset — use to be made of his influence for spreading the Gospel in England, 257 CCLYin. To Farel. — Tidings from Germany and England — recom- mendation of a domestic, .... 262
CCLIX. To Farel.— Election of a new Pope, . . .264
CCLX. To Francis Dryander. — Counsels and encouragements —
collection of Commentaries on Isaiah by Des Gallars, . 265 CCLXI. To Nicolas Colladon. — Settlement of the Colladon family
at Geneva, ...... 266
CCLXn. To the Seioneury op Geneva. — Notice of a publication
attributed to Gruet, ..... 268
CCLXIII. To Melanchthon. — Controversies excited in Germany by
the establishment of the Interim — brotherly reproofs, . 270 2
10 CONTENTS.
LETTER PAGE
CCLXrV. To YiRET. — Hope of au early visit from Viret— projected
excursions in the neighbourhood of Geneva, . . 275
CCLXV. To Farel. — Opinion regarding Vergerio — intelligence re- garding Bucer — letter to Melanchthon — disputes with Berne — literary publications of Calvin, . . 276
CCLXYI. To William Kabot. — Exhortation to the study of the
Scriptures, ...... 278
CCLXVII. To Farel. — Publication of the book on Scandals — per- secution by the King of France — Bucer's discourage- ment, . . . . . . .279
CCLXVIII, To Farel. — State of religion in England — Calvin's lite-
i-ary labours — arrival of Robert Stephens at Geneva, . 282 CCLXIX. To Monsieur de Falais. — Misconduct of a servant of
M. de Falais, . . . , . .285
1551.
CCLXX. To Haller. — Explanations on the subject of the aboli- tion of the great festivals at Geneva, . . . 287 CCLXXI. To Viret. — Criticism of a mandate published by the
Seigneurs of Berne, ..... 289
CCLXXII. To Bichard Le Fevre. — Explanations regarding various points of doctrine in dispute between the Romish and the Reformed Churches, .... 291
CCLXXni. To Yiret. — Various particulars — literary labours of Theo- dore Beza, ...... 298
CCLXXIV. To THE King of England. — He exhorts him to persevere in the work of the Reformation in his kingdom — enu- meration of abuses, ceremonies, ecclesiastical elections — universities, ...... 299
CCLXXV. To BuLLiNGER. — He excuses the infrequency of his letters,
and urges the publication of the Consensus, . . 304
CCLXXVI. To BuLLiNGER. — Thanks for a document — dedication of two commentaries to the King of England — captivity of Bishop Hooper — movements of the Emperor in Ger- many, . . . . . . .306
CCLXXVH. To BuLLiNGER. — Mention of a letter to the Duke of So- merset— re-opening of the Council of Trent — symptoms of war in Europe, ..... 308
CCLXXVIH. To Viret.— Death of Bucer and Joachim Vadian, . 310
CCLXXIX. To Farel. — Renewed expressions of regret for the death of Vadian and Bucer — controversies excited by Osian- der — numerous migrations to Geneva — commencement of hostilities in Italy, ..... 311
CONTENTS.
11
I£TT£B PAGE
CCLXXX. To A French Gentleman. — Sickness of Theodore Beza
— Calvin's grief, ..... 314
CCLXXXI. To THE Duke of Somerset. — Protestations of attach- ment— reforms required in the Church of England — squandering of the revenues of benefices and of the universities, . . . . . .315
CCLXXXII. To Viret.— Reply to the attacks of Pighius, and of
George of Sicily, . . . . .317
CCLXXXlII. To THE Ministers op Neuchatel. — Arrest of a minis- ter from Neuchatel in France — steps for obtaining his release, . . . . . .318
CCLXXXIY. To BuLLiNGEE. — Edict of Chateaubriand, in France —
attacks on Calvin in Geneva, . . .319
CCLXXXY. To the Ministers of Switzerland. — Statement of the
controversy with Bolsec regarding Election, . . 322
CCTiXXXYI. To Oswald Myconius. — Recommendations regarding the dispute with Bolsec — request on behalf of the Protestants of France, .... 326
CCLXXXVn. To Christopher Fabri. — Calvin's dissatisfaction with the reply of the ministers of Bale, and the conduct of Monsieur de Falais regarding the affair with Bolsec, 327 CCLXXXVin. To Farel. — Recommendation of a schoolmaster — com- plaints against the ministers of Zurich, . . 328 CCLXXXIX. To Lelio Socin. — Refusal to reply to the curious ques- tions proposed to him by Socin, . . . 330
1552.
CCXC. To Bullinger. — Thanks for the zeal manifested on be- half of the faithful in France — complaints of the con- duct of the ministers of Zurich in the affair of Bol- sec, . . . . . . ,331
CCXCT. To Farel. — Fresh complaints by Calvin against the ministers of Zurich and Berne — his unpopularity in the latter city — advices to Farel, . . . 335
CCXCII. To Madame de Cany. — Rigorous and inflexible spirit
of Calvin against heresy — praise of Theodore Beza, . 338
CCXCIII, To Bullinger. — Journey of Calvin and Farel in Switz- erland— steps in favour of the Reformed in France — return to the affairs of Bolsec, . . . 341
CCXCIV. To Cranmer. — Agreement to the proposal for assem- bling a General Synod for the more close union of the Reformed Churches, ..... 345
12
CONTENTS.
LETTER
CCXCV. To Bn.LiNGER. — Fresh details regarding the persecutions in France, ......
CCXCVI. To THE Five Prisoners of Lyons, — Martial Alba, Peter EscRivAiN, Charles Favre, Peter Naviheres, Ber- nard Seguin. — Information on various doctrinal points, and assurances of Christian sympathy, . CCXCYII. To Edward YI. — Dedication of a new work, and Christian exhortations, ......
CCXCVIII. To Cranmer. — Calvin exhorts him to prosecute with fresh zeal the reformation of the Church in England, by purg- ing it of the relics of Popery, ....
CCXCIX. To John Liner. — Thanks for the zeal manifested by him on behalf of the prisoners of Lyons, CCC. To THE French Church in London. — Exhortations to har- mony— Is it lawful to call Mary the Mother of God, and to pray for the Pope ? . CCCI. To the Seigneurs op Geneva. — Reply of Calvin to the
Syndics of Geneva in the case of Trolliet, CCCII. To Farel. — Conspiracy of the Libertins — energy of the Re- former— struggles of Viret at Lausanne, CCCIIT. To Viret. — Literary labours of Theodore Beza, CCCIV. To Ambroise Blaurer. — Troubles at Geneva — sad intelli- gence from France and Germany — steady in the pro- mises of God, ......
CCCY. To Melanchthon. — Earnest desires for the continuance of their mutual afiFection — disputes with Trolliet — longing for agreement in doctrine regarding the Communion and Election, ......
CCCYI. To Monsieur de Falais. — Rupture of Calvin with the Seisrneur, ......
349
350
354
356
358
360
363
370 372
373
375
381
1553.
CCCYII. To Mathieu Dimonet. — Exhortation to patience and con- stancy under persecution, .... 384 CCCYin. To Christopher Fabri. — Congratulations on the subject of his approaching marriage — Calvin's regret that he can- not be present at the ceremony, .... 387 CCCIX. To John Cheke. — Calvin apologizes for silence, and enjoins him to use his influence with the King for the advance- ment of the Gospel in England, . . . .389 CCCX. To THE Five Prisoners of Lyons. — Exhortations to con- stancy—mention of Oritz the Inquisitor, . . 391 CCCXI. To Edward YI. — Recommendation of a French gentle- man, a prisoner for the sake of the Gospel, . . 393
CONTENTS.
13
CCCXIL To Farel. — Serious illness and unexpected recovery of
Farel — Calvin's joy, ..... 395
CCCXJII. To Christopher and to Thomas Zollicoffre. — Last steps
in favour of the prisoners of Lyons, . . . 396
CCCXrV. To Cranmer. — He entreats his influence in favour of the
person already recommended to the King, . . 398
CCCXV. To Monsieur de IMarolles. — Christian encouragement
and consolation, ..... 399
CCCXYL To Viret. — Extinction of all hope in regard to the prison- ers of Lyons, ...... 401
CCCXVn. To Bulunger. — Assurances of respect and fraternal affec- tion, . . . . . . .402
CCCXVIIL To the Five Prisoners of Lyons. — He exhorts them to steadfastness unto the end, in the assurance of eternal joy reserved in heaven, .... 404
CCCXIX. To Madame de Cany. — Expression of Christian sympathy
under trial, ...... 408
CCCXX. To the Prisoners of Lyons. — He impresses on them the duty of maintaining their confession of the truth quietly and modestly, ...... 411
CCCXXL To BuLLiNGER. — Expression of regret for the death of the King of England — sad condition of the German Churches, ...... 414
CCCXXn. To Farel. — Arrest of Servetus, and institution of the
process against him, . . . . .416
CCCXXin, To Denis Peloquin and Louis de Marsac. — Information regarding various controverted points — exhortation to fidelity, even unto martyrdom, .... 418
CCCXXTV. To HIS Dearly Beloved the Pastors of the Church of Frankfort. — Request for the destruction of the copies at Frankfort of the book of Servetus, . . . 422
CCCXXV. To Viret.— Troubles at Geneva— Berthelier and the chiefs
of the Libertins are refused admission to the Lord's Table, 423 CCCXXVI. To Bullinger. — Deep anxiety on account of the condi- tion of the English Churches — Conference of the Swiss Churches in regard to Servetus, . . . 425
CCCXXV XL To SuLZER. — Statement of the errors of Servetus, and of
the duty of the Christian magistrate to repress them, . 427 CCCXXVni. To A Captive Lady. — He consoles her under her trials, and exhorts her to use every means to secure her retreat to Geneva, ...... 430
CCCXXIX. To THE Believers in the Lsles. — Religious counsels, and
announcement of the sending of a minister, . . 432
CCCXXX. To Farel. — Acknowledgment of Farel 's care for the
Church of Geneva, ..... 434
14 CONTENTS.
LETTER PAGE
CCCXXXI. To Farei..— Deliverance by the Swiss Churches re- garding Servetus — vain efforts of Calvin to obtain a mitigation of his punishment, . . , 435
CCCXXXIT. To Madame de Pons. — He encourages her to come out
of the spiritual bondage in which she is held, . 436
CCCXXXni. To YiRET. — Recommendation of several English refu- gees in Switzerland, ..... 439
CCCXXXIY. To Bollinger. — 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, ..... 440 CCCXXXV. To THE Pastors and Doctors of the Church of Zu- rich.— Account of the struggles at Geneva for the maintenance of ecclesiastical discipline — appeal to the Pastors of Zurich for their influence with the magis- trates of that town, ..... 442
CCCXXXYI. To Bollinger. — Fresh details regarding ecclesiastical discipline — hope of speedy realization — announcement of the publication of a book against the errors of Servetus, ...... 447
CCCXXXYII. To Farel. — Assistance afforded to the faithful refugees in Switzerland — reply of the Churches on the subject of ecclesiastical discipline, .... 448
CCCXXXV III. To AN Italian Lady. — He exhorts her to withdraw, by a voluntary exile, from the persecution and idolatry reigning in Italy, ..... 450
CCCXXXIX. To A Seigneur of Jersey. — Christian exhortations —
sending of a minister, .... 453
CALVIN'S LETTEES.
CXLIT.— To ViEET.'
Unpopularity of Calvin — various advices.
[Geneva, Sej>temher 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 con- trivance 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 me, not only the pensionaries, but all those who have no other wisdom than that of Epicurus, because, by my importunity, I have drawn down upon their nation the hatred of the King. But may there be nothing of such moment as shall
' The letters of the Cantons to the King, in favour of the Vaudois of Provence, only served to irritate that monarch. Ho passionately replied, — "The Vaudois Lave but received the just punishment of their crimes. Besides, the Swiss have no more right to busy themselves with what passes in my liingdom, than I have to make inquiry into what they do at home." — Jlistoire de la Cunfdtl&alion Suisse, vol. xi. p. 289. The failure of those proceedings redounded to the discredit of Calvin with the people, as he had been the instigator of them. His adversaries went about reiterating everywhere that he had compromised the most valued interests of the Cantons, by drawing upon them the enmity of the King of France.
(15)
16 MONSIEUR DE FALAIS. [1545.
retard us in the discharge of our duty beyond what cannot be avoided.
Charles the schoolmaster, on whose account Sebastian abused me, has deserted his post, induced by what prospect I know not. We have appointed Francis his successor; but as he had received one month's payment out of the salary of your school, it seemed the more honourable course that he should previously request permission and his discharge from the Bernese Council, a matter in which, as I trust, there will be no diffi- culty. A maternal uncle also of our colleague Peter sought a recommendation [for him,] which he brings with him. If you think it calledfor,you will likewiselend the aid of your suffrage. We have always found him an excellent and ingenuous man, peaceable and modest. He is said, for instance, to have laboured faithfully, and with success, in the vineyard of the Lord in Provence.
Adieu; may the Lord be ever present with you. — Yours,
John Calvin.
[Laf. orig. autogr. — Library of Geneva. Yol. 106.]
CXLY. — To Monsieur de Falais.*
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
' Letter without date, written at the same time as the following, (September 1545.) Summoned in the name of the Emperor to leave Strasbourg and return to Brabant, M. de Falais had not obeyed that command. This refusal, in stirring up the imperial displeasure against him, had e.\posed him, without defence, to the interested denunciations of his enemies. The butt of most calumnious accusations, he saw his character misunderstood, his name outraged, his property put under sequestration, while ho pined away himself — a prey to sickness and discour- agement.
1545.] MONSIEUR DE FALAIS. 17
a long time past the good Lord lias 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 when you have set yourself frankly to follow Jesus Christ, you have not done so without being resolved to hold fellowship with him at the cross, since he has done us that honour to be crucified in us, to glorify us with himself. And there is no doubt, even at the time when you were in your own mansion, and in the peaceable enjoyment of your property, you would have had the courage to quit everything had it so pleased him, and that you were of the number of those who use the things of this loorld as not abusing them, (1 Cor. vii. 31.) But, forasmuch as it is very reasonable that one should be taught by experience to discern what our affection is most set upon, you are to consider that it has been our Lord's will to give you to many others for an example, and, by this means, to glorify his name in you.
On the other hand, we know not what it is to part with everything for the love of him, until he has brought us to the test. True it is, that he who has taken off his affection from the goods of this world has already sold all, and has made him- self poor, so far as depends upon himself; but the fruit and the proof of this spiritual poverty are, patiently to endure the loss of worldly goods, and without any regret, when it pleases our heavenly Father that we should be despoiled of them. I do not set these things before you as to one who is ignorant, or who has need of lengthy remonstrances, but for the love that I bear you, of which God is my witness. I take comfort along with you, as I also suffer in your person.
The time then is arrived when you must manifest that you reckon all things no more than dung, that you may reach forward to Him who not only has bestowed on you all his benefits, but also himself. And since God has permitted that you should be disburdened of a part of your worldly goods, you are to con- • sider that he has clearly perceived that, for the present, they would prove a useless fardel for you. I say a part, albeit that, as it were, the whole has been snatched away from you, yet, so that there remains, as I hope, an abundance for your use. These 3
18 MONSIEUR DE FALAIS. [1545.
whirlpools, however, which engulf the whole world, have daily greater want than those whose substance they have swal- lowed down.
In short, you have not been lessened one whit, seeing that our Lord, while teaching you that your inheritance is in heaven, has made provision for what might be useful for the life of the body, by bestowing contentment upon you, and, as regards pro- perty, more than was needful to make you contented. If the whole should be taken away from you, there would yet remain the consolation to which we must chiefly betake ourselves, namely, to yield ourselves up entirely. It is certain, that hav- ing the Son of God, we suffer no injury in being deprived of all else: for thus highly ought we indeed to prize him. But further, since this kind Saviour has so benignly upheld you, that while calling you to the fellowship of his cross, he has provided for your worldly comfort, it is quite fitting that you submit yourself to his good pleasure, and, besides, rejoice that in being minished, so far as the world is concerned, you are thereby so much the more exalted before him and his angels. For howsoever the world strives, by all means, to bury Jesus Christ in ignominy, his burial cannot be otherwise than glorious, not only in himself, but also in his members. Let us therefore endure personal humiliation, as shall seem good to him. But my letters would never come to an end were I to follow out the drift of this discourse. Therefore, Monseigneur, after having humbly commended me to your kind favour, I pray our good Lord that he would so work in you now more powerfully than ever, to make you despise all that is in the world, and to make you breathe upwards direct to him with your whole heart, without being turned aside by anything what- soever, making you taste what is the worth of the hope which he reserves for us in heaven ; and that it may please him to lighten your burden as regards the body, in order that you may be all the better disposed, well to meditate upon the favours he has bestowed upon you, and to take delight in them, acknow- ledging the love which he has shewn you. My wife, who is sick in bed, begs also to be humbly commended to your kind re- membrance. This bearer, who is of the better sort, and of the
1545.] MADAME DE FALAIS. 19
Stamp such as you require, will inform you more at large con- cerning our state.
Your humble brother, servant, and assured friend,
JouN Calvin.
[Fr. orig. autogr. — Library of Geneva. Vol. 194.]
CXLYI. — To Madame de Falais.
Congratulations on the constancy manifested by her in the midst of trials — saluta- tions from the suffering Idelette de Bure.
From Geneva, this \%th 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, with- out 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 rejoice our spirits, and will make us taste and feel, in a lively way, that it is not in vain that he has promised to make us unconquerable in tribulations. Now, then, learn in reality what that beautiful promise is worth, that we are indeed happy, when all the world shall speak ill of us, and shall hate us, and shall persecute us for his name's sake. Therefore it is, that he has prepared you, long before exposing you to danger. To this truth it is that you must now recur, that you may acquiesce in it ; and, indeed, he is actually leading you thither by the hand.
Wherefore are we not together, to provoke Satan, by meditat- ing upon the things which may well cause us spiritual rejoicing, and give us matter for glorying more than ever, even when we are utterly discomfited according to the world's estimation ? But I am aware that you have no need of my fellowship in that ; and besides, I say so, more to content myself than because of your necessity. Above all, understand that now the hour is come when you must shew what a helpmeet you are to Mon- seigneur your husband, in such a sort that he may always have
20 MONSIEUR DE PALAIS. [1545.
occasion to bless God, as he has had hitherto, for having pro- vided him with such a support. I say this, because I consider that it is the principal one that God has left him as regards the creature, without having deprived him of all. I see clearly, though absent, by what zeal you are urged forward to acquit yourself of duty, and what trouble you take to employ your- self therein. For which reason, what I now speak is not so much by way of exhortation as, while congratulating, to up- hold you in that good courage which God has given.
I address to your care some reply which I have made to the sister of Monseigneur, who is at Mons, to a communication which she sent lately to the wife of Saint- Andrd. If it seem good to you, you can cause forward it to her, with this which I send to the sister of Monsieur David. I submit the whole to your good discretion.
To conclude, Madame and very honoured sister, after having affectionately commended me to your kind favour, and having also presented to you the humble commendations of my wife, who lies sick in bed, I entreat our good Lord to fill you with all grace, daily to increase his glory in you, and to triumph in your constancy, in order that finally we may be also partakers of his glory which he has promised us. Your servant and humble brother,
John Calvin.
[Fr. orig. autogr. — Library of Geneva. Vol. 194.]
CXLVII. — To Monsieur de Falais.^
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
' This letter, without date, seems to have been written at the same epoch, and under the same circumstances as the two preceding letters.
1545.] MONSIEUR DE FALAIS. 21
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 practically that we are his, submitting ourselves entirely to him in true obedience, which is not in our power to do without resigning and giving up our persons to him, so that he dispose of them as shall seem good to himself. If it please him to prolong life, we must prepare to see much poverty in the Christian Church. We see the dispersion and complete disorder there is in it at present. Hope of amend- ment there appears none on the side of the world ; for to befool one's-self in relying upon princes, that is labour lost. They have, besides, so many hindrances, that they have not leisure to think about what ought to be the chief consideration of all. In short, they are entirely taken up with their civil state, for the sake of which they will persecute Jesus Christ, thinking that there is no other method of maintaining it. It will be nothinsr new, however, if, though only for shame's sake, they should make a pretence of applying a remedy for such horrible con- fusion, on account of which both heaven and earth cry out. "Wherefore, it only remains for us to pray God that it may please him to strengthen us with true constancy in the midst of these scandals, in such a way that nothing may seduce us, but that we may persevere always. And also, that he would look in pity upon his Church, and put forth the hand to lift her up again, fulfilling that which the prophet has said, that seeing that he had no lielper among men, lie has put forth the strength of his arm, (Isa. lix. 16.)
In conclusion, let us employ ourselves in his service, la- bouring without growing weary or losing courage, until he call us away into that blessed rest where we have contentment ia himself, delighting ourselves in the labours we shall have undergone, receiving then the recompense of reward whichshall be there revealed to us.
Now therefore, Monsieur, after humble commendation to your favour and that of Madame, I beseech the good Lord to uphold you in real prosperity, continuing his graces in you,
22 FAREL. [1545.
so that to the end you may be instruments of his glory, and that he may be your sanctification.
Your servant and humble brother ever,
Charles d'Espeville.
[Fr. oriff. autogr. — Library of Geneva. Vol. 194.]
CXLYIII.— To Farel.i
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'^ is lying in fetters, and in imminent peril of his life. The very thing that I always feared, and that I fore- told 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. You will know these things better than I. There is no hope of obtaining any seasonable assistance from Germany, unless by means of Johu Sturm, who, however well disposed he may be towards the cause, is not, so far as things have gone, friendly to your brother. Would that you had thought better, while there was time, of what it is to offend a friend who deserved well. Be- sides, you are not ignorant of the fact, that there are servile persons who wish, at this time of the day, to approve their obsequiousness to the princes. Yet, if you shall be of opinion that it will be useful to attempt something in that quarter, your influence with Sturm himself is great. You have, however, your own Bucer, to whom he never ventured to refuse any- thing ; but it is a long circuit. Let him, therefore, accelerate the movements of the Bernese, lest the remedy come too late.
We are surprised that we have had no announcement re-
' Letter without date, and without conclusion, written during the attack of the plague, under which the minister (Jenistou succumbed, that is to saj', in September 1545.
" Guutier Farcl, brother to the Reformer. He was very soon afterwards restored to liberty, contrary to all expectation.
1545.] FAREL. 23
gurding yourself, Viret made me aware of the resolution that liad been come to by the brethren ; but, as far as lean gather from his letter, nothing has been done in the Council. IIow long, therefore, will the matter remain in doubt? Here, as you know, we are in great straits: you are away frorn us ; Matthasus is occupied in the hospital for those who are suftering from the plague. In the meantime, while we are calling upon you to come, we have lost our very excellent brother and most faithful colleague Geniston.' What if the others should likewise be taken away ? What if one only should survive, [I myself?] What if the ministers be shut up by themselves, through the absurd superstition of our townsmen ? — just as lately a large number was within a little of being so confined. Consider, therefore, these our difficulties, lest you put us off longer than is right. But what Viret mentions that your people have added, viz: that you are conceded to us, on the condition of our being able to bring about the succession of Toussain, is certainly ridiculous; for what can we do in that matter, or in what way shall we attempt the business ? The short of it is, we by no means prescribe a definite time, but we desire you to use your utmost diligence to disengage yourself from the place where you are, in order that you may forthwith repair to us unfettered;'^ for we are now sadly in want of your presence, as you may judge from our condition. The wife of Geniston is, at the same time, in the death-throes, his little girl is wearing away, and his little boy is now given over. . . . [Lat. orig. autogr. — Lihnirtj of Geneva. Yol. 106.]
' The minister, Louis de Geniston, following tlio noble example of Pierre Blanchet, cut oflf by the plague in 154.3, had, of his own accord, ofTorcd himself for the service of the hospital set apart for those afflicted with the plague. Ho fell under it, a victim of his devotedness, in September 1545. His wife and two of his children were carried off a few diX3's afterwards by the scourge, which almost wholly depopulated several quarters of the city.
^ There exists (Imp. Lib. Jiecueil Hist., de France, vol. xix.) a piece entitled Lcpida Farelli Vucatto. In that letter Calvin vigorously urges his friend to repair to Geneva, by calling to mind the religious violence with which ho was himself detained there, by the voice of Farel, at the time of his first entrance into that city in 15.36. " Do you expect that I should thunder as you were wont to do, when you wished forcibly to draw me hither ?"' The urgencies of Calvin were fruitless, and the Church of Neuchatel retained, for twenty years longer, the services and the indefatigable activity of Farel.
24 viRET. [1545,
CXLIX.— To ViRET.
Dispersion of the School at Geneva — contests at Neuchatel on the subject of church property — Calvin's opinion of Farel.
24:th October 1545.
We shall wait until- you either restore Francis to us, or send Erasmus. As, meanwhile, the school is dispersed,' 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 assislant-teacher, I do not venture upon anything, because it will be more satisfactory that the person who has the superintendence of the school shall have the unfettered power of selecting whom he chooses.
I had excused myself to Farel, but he remains fixed in his purpose.^ It would not only be ridiculous, but bordering on imprudence, to undertake to correct in the Neuchatelese a vice which here we are not able to cure. I had given it as my advice, that it would be better to draw up a memorial, in which the Princes should promise that they would be always ready to make restitution, if an agreement could be come to regarding legitimate administration. In the next place, I advised them, under this pretext, to put a stop to those profane alienations, in order that the matter might be left undecided until a more favourable time. Farel replies, that the authority of the Princes will not avail much. What confidence then will our letter produce? He further urges me to enter into communica- tion with Bucer, in order to obtain from the Council of Stras- bourg a letter to the Council of Berne to this purport : — That
' The plague had dispersed the regents and students of the College of Geneva, and Calvin was labouring at the re-organization of that establishment. He had already proposed to the Council, in March 1545, to call to Geneva the celebrated Maturin Cordier, as president of the regents / but this proposal ended in nothing, and Maturin Cordier remained at Lausanne.
* Farel was then at strife with the Seigneury of Neuchatel, on the subject of the aJuiinistration of ecclesiastical property.
1545.] viRET. 25
it had been pointed out to them that the Ncuchatelesedid very wrong in squandering the goods of the Church ; and that it was the duty of the Bernese to check this license. lie hopes that a letter of that nature would also do good at Berne. I, on the contrary, hardly think that the people of Strasbourg would write such a letter, as they would be afraid of increasing the sore. In the next place, if they should write, do we not know that their admonition would be laughed at? And, although tlie Bernese were in the highest degree desirous to remedy this fault of the Neuchatelese, with what face could they set about it? I have to implore that they will not venture to reprehend in others that which they pertinaciously defend as lawfully done by themselves. I may therefore say of Fare! what Cicero said of Cato, "That he acts indeed with good judg- ment, but in counsel does not always shew the best." The cause of this is chiefly, that beingcarried awayby the vehemence of his zeal, he does not always discern what is expedient, and either does not foresee dangers, or despises them ; and there is to be added the evil, that he cannot bear with patience those who do not comply with his wishes. But what could I do? for I will not be induced to undertake anything which I think will be of injurious tendency.
Christopher will tell you about Champereau,' and I will write when the matter has come to an end. Adieu, most excellent brother, and most sincere friend. I have not yet had an oppor- tunity of meeting Amddee. I will, however, fulfil your com- mission.— Adieu, again, including your wife, aunt, and bro- thers. The co-presbyters, my wife, and the neighbours re- spectfully salute you. — Yours,
John Calvin.
[^Lat. copy — Library of Geneva. Yol. 111.]
' Rebuked on the ground of his morals, this minister had been banished to a country parish, and having refused to submit to the entire Consistory, he had received his dismissal.
4
26 FAREL. [1546.
CL. — To MONSIEUE DE Falais.
Prayers for his restoration to health.
From Geneva, this 26th of October [1545.]
MoNSElGNEUR, — I hope that, according to what Antony Maillet has latterly informed ns, 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 in- finite goodness, as well to grant the prayers of his servants as to shut the mouth of the wicked, so that they take not occa- sion to say that you have been overcome by their temptation ; for you are aware that they want not great colour for their blasphemy. Therefore, God will shew them that he has fitted you to receive still greater assaults, if there is need ; and in the meanwhile, will grant us the favour to enjoy a longer time of you to our singular consolation. When we shall have tidings from yourselves, they will rejoice us still more.
In the meantime. Monsieur, after having humbly commended me to your kind favour and that of Madame, and having pre- sented to both of you the kind remembrances of a woman brought back to life, I beseech our gracious Lord to have you always in his holy keeping, multiplying his graces in you daily, to the glory of his name.
Your humble brother, servant, and entire friend,
John Calvin.
[Fr. orig. autogr. — Library of Geneva. Yol. 194.]
CLI.— To Farel.
News from Germany — ^journey of the French Amhassadors to Geneva — details con- cerning 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 farther delay may involve a long train of inconveniences, which
1546.] FAREL. 27
I should wish to be guarded against. Feron, our brother,' 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 brother brought back no news from Germany, except that the Eatisbon Assembly pretends that our party continue their deliberations at Frankfort,^ and the confident report of a league, or at least a friendly alliance, between your party and the King. The Emperor was also said to be laid up with gout in the feet or hands. The King's ambassador in that quarter, when passing through, supped with me. We talked together familiarly, for he acknowledges being under some' obligation to me. I again, however, urge you to beware lest our friends prove too compliant. I point to the license that prevails over the whole kingdom, of taking cruel measures against the godly. "We will await the issue. You are aware that the Pope is now busying himself that, by means of false pretences, a council may be held at Trent ; we do not, however, hear that there is to be a full convocation.
I wish that even one day could be given to a conference on our affairs. As this, however, is for the present impossible, do not needlessly vex yourself, should many reports be spread abroad. There was, indeed, a time when we were on our guard, when our party appointed sentinels for the gates, and were usually more careful in keeping watch.^ But they inconsider- ately gave a signal of alarm, without my knowledge, however, and when I had not the smallest suspicion that anything of the
' Minister of the Church of Geneva; deposed, a few years afterwards, on account of the irregularities of his life.
" Alarmed at the first movements of the Council of Trent, and the perils to which the good understanding between the Pope and the Emperor might subject the Refor- mation, the Deputies of the League of Smalkald had reassembled at Frankfort. Lut their union was not so solid as the gravity of the occasion demanded. The Elector of Saxe and the Landgrave of Hesse were influenced by different political views; but they were both alike disposed to seek the alliance of the Kings of France and England, as well as of the Protestant Cantons of Switzerland, that they might withstand the storm that menaced them. — Sleidan, 1. xvi., and Robertson, vol. iv. B. vii. p. 23 1. London, 1851.
8 '•' Upon the intelligence that the Duke of Savoy has retaken two strongholds in Piedmont, and that he is collecting a body of troops, resolved to continue to work at the fortifications." — Registers of Council, 2Sth December 15i5.
28 FAKEL. [1546.
kind would take place.^ Seizing the opportunity, our neigh- bours [the Bernese] run to our aid, and most unreservedly ofter their assistance. No one had any suspicion of kindness so obliging. Our friends make no communication to me, and after speeches had been made backwards and forwards, an agreement is come to between the parties. Shortly afterwards, there arrives a new embassy with the most monstrous commissions. The captain of the garrison, proffered by the Bernese, with his pro posals, having met with a refusal, has quitted the city.^ I am now aware how many various reports are everywhere circu- lated, but I see no danger. Should you hear anything, deny confidently the existence of any sort of alliance between us. For presently, when they become ashamed of themselves, they will have recourse to the old arts, saying that they are un- justly defamed, &c. I can hardly persuade our friends that there is need of deeds on our side ; nor is this wonderful, for in other things they act foolishly in spite of my remonstrances. Adieu, brother and most sincere friend. Salute for me, in the kindest manner, all your co-presbyters and your family. May the Lord direct all of you by his Spirit, and preserve you safe.
The impostor who had undertaken to carry Bucer's letter to you, stopped at Montbeliard, nor would he ever have conveyed it to you, had not my brother purposely set out for that place, because he had in his keeping another of far greater moment. Pie is a worker in gold by trade, but a fellow who is deserv- ing of the gallows.
I am so far convalescent as to be able for preaching and lec- turing, but am kept busy with arrears.''
[Lat. orig. autogr.— Library of Geneva. Vol. 106.]
> " Oath exacted of all private individuals, of fidelity to the Seigneury, and of their readiness to live and die for liberty." — Registers of Council, 7th January 1546.
' The Seigneurs of Berne, eagerly seeking every opportunity of establishing their influence at Geneva, had offered to guard the city, and to protect it against all foreign attacks. This proposal was discarded, as tending to compromise the independence of the Pepublic. — Rerjiaters of Council, 11th January 1546.
» We read, in the R<^>/>sters of Council of the 29th of January of this year :— " Cal- vin having been ill, the Seigneury present to him ten crowns. On his recovery, he returns the money to the Council, who cause it to 'be expended in the purchase of a tun of wine for him, thus leaving him no alternative but to accept it."
1546.] MONSIEUR DE FALAIS. 29
CLII. — To Monsieur de Falais.'
Calvin dedicates to him one of his Commentaries.
[Jnmmri/ l,')4r).']
MoNSElGNEUR, — Since ray written letter, I liave changed my mind, touobing the epistle dedicatory of my Commentary, be- cause 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'' may not have it but from your hands. Should it not appear fitting that I address it to you, I shall make a new one, on being advertised to that effect. As for the rest, do not be astonished if I speak with brevity of you, for I would fear to touch some thorns in entering further on the subject. But according as circumstances will bear it, we can, should it so please God, on a second impression, discourse fully and say all that there shall be need for. Ilowbeit, I would greatly desire, if it might so please God, to be with you for three or four days, to confer by word, of mouth rather than by writing. Possibly it is folly on my part to think that my presence can be of any service to you. But why so? while the power may be wanting, affection makes me speak thus. These wishes, however, are more easy to form than to fulfil. So let us be content with what God gives us.
Yesterday we had news here of the defeat of four thousand English by five hundred light horse. But it is from France/
' Calvin had just dedicated to M. de Falais his Commentary on the First Epistle of St. Paul to the Corinthians. The epistle dedicatory is of the 22d January 1546. The name of M. de Falais — sad example of the fragile nature of human affections ! — was effaced ten years afterwards from the preface of this Commentary, and replaced by the name of the Marquis of Vico.
' On the back, in the hand of M. de Falais — 'Received the Cth February 1546.'
3 Printer in Strasbourg.
* The French were then besieging the town of Boulogne, occupied by the English. The peace between the two rival monarchs of France and England, was signed the year following. — De Thou, lib. i. ii.
30 JOHN FRELLON". [1546.
Monseigneur, after having humbly commended me anew to your kind favour, and that of Madame, I pray always our Lord that he would uphold you in his glory.
[Fr. orig. autogr. — Library of Geneva. Vol. 194]
CLIII.— To John Frellon.'
Rupture of the Relations between Calvin and Servetus.
TJiia 13th of Fehruanj 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 bringinghim back, which will be, when God shall have wrought in him so effectually, that he has become entirely another man. Since he has written to me in so proud a spirit, I would fain
' The following is the address of this letter, taken from the original in the archives of the old Archbishopric of Vienne, and first published by the Abb^ d'Artigny, — A Sire Jihan Frellon, marchand libraire demeurant d Lyon, en la rue Merciere, enseigne de I'Escu de Coidongne. The mysterious personage who is pointed at in this letter, is no other than Michael Servetus — seven years before the trial which wiis to attach so fatal a celebrity to his name. Settled as a physician at Vienne, in Dauphiny, he kept up a correspondence with Calvin, under the cover of John Frellon, and he had just sent the Reformer an extract of the work which was in preparation under the title of Christianismi restitutio, ex- pressing at the same time the desire of coming to Geneva. Then it was, that Calvin wrote to Farel the letter which has been so often cited, where this passage occurs, " Servet has lately written to me, and has added to his letter a large volume of his own delirious fancies. ...//" it may be agreeable to me, he un- dertakes that he would come hither. But 1 will not interpose my assurance of his safety, for if he shall come, provided that my authority is of any avail, I shall not suffer him to depart alive.'""'' — Letter of the 13th February 1546. We know how that terrible threat was realized seven years afterwards.
" Pervetiis nuper ad me siripsit, ac literis adjunxit Ionium volumen suorum deliriorum . . , Si mihi placeoi. hue se venturum recipit. Sect nolo Jidem meam inttrponcre, nam si venerit,modo valcat mea authoritas, vivum exire nan patiar.
1546.] FAREL. 31
have beaten down his pride a little, speaking more harshly to him than is my wont ; but I could scarcely do otherwise. For I do assure you that there is no lesson which is more neces- sary for him than to learn humility, which must come to him from the Spirit of God, not otherwise. But we must observe a measure here also. If God grants that favour to him and to us, that the present answer turns to his profit, I shall hjive whereof to rejoice. If he persists in the same style as he has now done, you will lose time in asking me to bestow labour upon him, for I have other affairs which press upon me more closely ; and I would make a matter of conscience of it, not to busy myself further, having no doubt that it was a temptation of Satan to distract and withdraw me from other more useful reading. And therefore I beg you to content yourself with what I have done in the matter, unless you see some better order to be taken therein.
Wherefore, after my commendation to you, I beseech our good Lord to have you in his keeping. Your servant and hearty friend,
Charles d'Espeville.
[Printed — Nouveaux Mimoires de V AhM d' Artigmj, torn. ii. p. 70.]
CLIY.— To Farel.
Reply to various questions — terrible threat against Servetus — imprisonment of one of the leaders of the Libertins.
Geneva, \Zth 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, so that I was confounded by so sudden a departure. And yet the youth
82 FAREL. [1546.
had not appeared to me to behave badly in general. I trust the reflection may occur to your brothers, that they have been thus extricated from all their difficulties by the hand of God, in order that they make the greater haste [in the work,] It did not become the Israelites, when a way was opened up to them, to show remissness in immediately girding themselves for flight.' Such would have been the burden of my epistle had not the messenger deceived me ; but I am confident that they are burning with ardour of their own accord. I now come to your own contests.^ If the ungodly still occasion you some trouble, when that letter shall arrive, I have briefly expressed in it what I think should be your mode of proceeding. I should wish, however, the matter to be discussed viva voce ; and that, there- upon, the result, or something like it, be committed to writing. You will perhaps smile because I suggest nothing out of the common, as you looked for something recondite and elevated at my hands; but I do not wish, nor, besides, is it right to be fettered by your estimate of me. I had rather, however, be foolish by so writing, than by my silence lead you to suppose that your entreaties were neglected by me. If nothing can be effected by reasoning, and in this lawful way, the Bernese must be privately prevailed upon not to allow that wild beast to go out of its den. I do not sufficiently comprehend your meaning regarding a treaty, unless it be, as I conjecture, that you are turning your thoughts to some sort of alliance, with a view to your receiving the assistance of the Bernese; and that just as they guard the liberty of the people by the law of the state, so they may pro- tect ministers in their office by some title which commands respect. If that be provided for, I do not disapprove of [the alliance.] Bear in mind, that recourse should be had to those extraordinary remedies only when there is the exculpatory plea of an ultimate necessity. In the next place, be very cautious
' Decimated by the most cruel persecution, the faithful of Dauphine, the native country of Farel, had inquired of the ministers of French Switzerland, whether it was lawful for them to have recourse to flight, in order to escape the fury of their adversaries. Numerous refugees had already settled at Geneva. — See vol. i. p. 473.
° Ecclesiastical embroilments with the Seigneury of Berne.
1546.] FAREL. 83
lest anything you do be such as may injure your interests in time to come. You may have greater cause of regret in that you once received aid, and were parties to a compact, than if you were to remain in your original servitude. Marcourt has, without doubt, already promised a place for himself; for he publicly proclaims that he does not regard the consent of the brethren, since he is desired, both by magistrates and people, and he has no doubt but that they are indignant against you. Finally, since he prematurely discloses the wickedness of his character, he must be repulsed by all artifices, lest he rise to a position in which he is able to perform what he threatens. With regard to those who gave out that we were establishing here a permanent seat of despotism, under colour of defence, let us suffer this rumour to spread on both sides. Their impudence has been met with civility and mildness, so that they ought to be ashamed of themselves.' I trust that they will keep quiet. I seek, as far as I am able, to persuade our friends to remain unconcerned. Servetus lately wrote to me, and coupled with his letter a long volume of his delirious fancies, with the Thrasonic boast, that 1 should see something astonish- ing and unheard of He takes it upon him to come hither, if it be agreeable to me. But I am unwilling to pledge my word for his safety, for if he shall come, I shall never permit him to depart alive, provided my authority be of any avail.'^
More than fifteen days have now elapsed since Cartelier^ was imprisoned, for having, at supper in his own house, raged against me with such insolence as to make it clear that he was not then in his right senses. I concealed what I felt, but I
• See letter of the 26th January, p. 28, note 2.
' See the preceding letter. It appears that relations between Calvin and Servetus continued in a state of interruption, as is proved by the following passage of a letter of Calvin to Viret, dated 1st September 1548: — "I think I once read to you my answer to Servetus. I wiis at length disinclined from striving longer with the incurable obstinacy of a heretic; and, indeed, I ought to have followed the advice of Paul. lie now attacks you. You will see how long you ought to persist in rebutting his follies. He will twist nothing out of me henceforward." — Library of tieneva, Vol. 106.
' One of the most violent members of the party that combated the influence and in- stitutions of the Reformer at Geneva. 5
84 FAREL. [1546.
testified to the judge that it would be agreeable to me were he proceeded against with the utmost rigour of the law. I wished to go to see him. Access was prohibited by decree of the Senate; and yet some good men accuse me of cruelty, forsooth, because I so pertinaciously revenge my injuries.' I have been requested by his friends to undertake the part of intercessor. I refused to do so, except on these two conditions, viz: that no suspicion should attach to me, and that the honour of Christ should remain intact. I have now done. I abide the judgment of the Council. — Adieu, brother, and most sincere friend. We all salute you and your sisters. You will convey to the brethren the best salutations in my name, and that of my brethren in the ministry. May God ever bless you and prosper your labours. — Yours,
John Calvin.
[Lat. orig. autogr. — Imp. Library, Coll. Duptiy. Vol. 102.]
CLY.— To Farel.
Pacification of the Churcli 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, our- selves also, and the whole Church of Christ, that the Lord has unexpectedly stilled all tumults, by restraining the ungodly. Yiret 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 present with you when he opened up to you that plan of admonishing the heads of the citizens. We again acknowledge a memorable work of his, in having given to you those who of their own
' Calvin shewed himself, on more than one occasion, disposed to forgive personal injuries, as the Registers of Council testify : — " A woman having abused M. Calvin, it is directed that she be consigned to prison. Liberated at the request of the said M. Calvin, and discharged with a reproof." — 12th December 1545.
1546.] FAREL. So
accord were disposed to act well towards you. I feel confident that the matter has been brought to a conclusion in harmony with the desire of all good men. If our service be desired, you know that we are all yours. I now hourly expect your brothers. May the Lord restore them to us safe and with good fortune.' A confident report is spread abroad here of the arrival of the Emperor. I hold it for certain that a passage across will by no means be opened up to him without a bloody conflict. It cannot be doubted, that even though our neigh- bours were willing that we should be left exposed to the danger of becoming the prey of the conqueror, they would nevertheless find it necessary to guard their own territories ; although I do not know why our party have so soon become careless, unless they wished to subject themselves to their sway, and thus save themselves from other masters. It is a hard condition that you must give up your liberty in order to secure allies as defenders.'^ Our party erred in one particular, that they made too violent a reply. But what could I do? On me, nevertheless, the odium redounds, though I strove with great vehemence to prevent the ground of it ; but I have bid adieu to the perverted judgments of men. I pass on to another subject. Matters will go more severely with Cartel ier, because he mixed up with myself part of the Senate. After that I have respectably enough discharged the duty of clemency, I have resolved to halt. The malevolent will heap obloquy upon me, but if there be an opportunity of reply ing, I have the means of stopping their mouths. No one certainly will allege that any word less than fair fell from me, for among good and bad I have endeavoured to extenuate his offence. The Parliament of Paris, as I hear, now wages war with fire and faggot against Christ.^ It is indeed certain that a great
• See p. 22, note 2.
" Allusion to the Bernese and to their pretensions of ruling Geneva under cover of the Alliance. — See p. 28, note 2.
8 The year 1546 was especially remarkable for the great persecutions that arose ■within the bounds of the jurisdiction of the Parliament of Paris. Meaux, Seulis, Orleans, reckoned numerous martyrs. One named Jean Chapot of Dauphinc, col- porteur of Geneva, arrested at Paris, was condemned to death, after having under- gone the most cruel tortures. Uo had his tongue cut out before ho was cast into the flames. "The dispersion," says Beza, "was widespread, but it led to
86 viRET. [1546.
multitude of the godly are everywhere held in bonds. Sar- danapalus,' meanwhile, in the midst of his courtezans, feeds his fancy with victories. May the Lord have respect to his Church !
Adieu, most upright brother in the Lord, together with all your fellow-ministers, whom you will respectfully salute in my name, and in that of the brethren. May Christ ever direct you all by right counsel, and bless your auspicious endeavours. — — Yours,
John Calvin.
To the four Presidents of the citizens, special compliments in my name. May the Lord bless them exceedingly. [Lat. arig. autogr. — Library of Geneva. Vol. 106.]
LYL— To ViRET.
Election of a minister at Neuchatel — sickness of Viret's wife.
Geneva, 22c? Fehruary 1546.
I learned from Farel's last letter, that the commotions at Neu- chatel 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;* and there is hope that they will offer no objection. Farel wrote that the good cause had been not a little aided by the Consul Wateville.
Had they invited us as brethren, I should have been ready at any hour. But I rejoice especially, that you were of more ser-
the great advancement of many churches which were built up of the stones of that ruin." — Hist. Ecd. torn. i. p. 82. Histoirc dee Martyrs, pp. 170, 177.
' Francis I., King of France.
** On the death of the minister Chaponneau, the people of Neuchatel wished to have in his room Christopher Fabri, minister of Thonon : they accordingly asked him from the Seigneury of Berne, who with a good grace conceded him to them. — Ruchat, vol. v. p. 299.
1546.] viRET. 37
vice than you thought you would be ; for all loudly assert that your arrival was highly advantageous.
I see that Textor does not hold out much further hope of your wife. You need no more words to admonish you to hold yourself ready to bear with moderation the issue, whatever that may be. Would that I also could fly thither, that I might alleviate your sorrow, or at least bear a part of it!' But so long a ride would cause me pain. I rather advise, should matters happen otherwise than as we wish, that you come hither for a few days. — Adieu, most sound-hearted brother, along with your wife and family. The Lord comfort and strengthen you all. Amen. — Yours,
John Calvin.
[Lat. orig. autogr. — Library of Geneva. Yol. 106.]
CLYII.— To YiRET.'
Calvin invites his friend to repair to Geneva after the death of his wife.
Geneva, Sth 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
' We again find marks of the same solicitude in a letter of Calvin to Viret of the preceding month. " Adieu, with your wife, whose health wo will commend to the Lord. Be assured that we are not less solicitous about her than if she were the wife or daughter of each of us. The Lord keep you and sustain you with the consolation of his Spirit." — (January 1546,) Vol. 106, from Geneva.
'^ Viret was at that time plunged into the deepest affliction. He had just lost, after a long illness, his wife, Elizabeth Turtaz, of Orbe, with whom he had lived for many years in a godly union. The grief which he felt on that occasion is expressed, in a very touching manner, in a letter written many years afterwards to Calvin : — " I was so completely dispirited and prostrated by that arrow of affliction, that the whole world appeared to me nothing but a burden. There was nothing pleasant, nothing that could mitigate my grief of mind." — Calv. Epist. et Reap., p. 5.3. The friends of Viret, and especially Farel and Calvin, lavished upon him, during that trial, marks of the tenderest and most brotherly affection. The familiar correspondence of Calvin furnishes us with precious revelations in this respect.
38 viRET. [1546.
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 wretches who had spread a report of your death. Never did a letter from you arrive more opportunely. Although your death was announced, yet as mention was made of poison, Textor was already in the midst of preparations for the journey, that he might speed to Orbe on fleet horses. A great part of the bre- thren were present, all overwhelmed with deep affliction. Shortly afterward your letter made its appearance, and such exultation instantly broke forth, that we were hardly masters of our senses. It was fortunate that we did not pass a night of sorrow, else I should not have borne it without danger. But why do I detain you, and not rather incite you to hasten hither as quickly as possible? Adieu, brother and most agree- able friend. Salute respectfully the brethren James, Eibitti, Hubert, Cordier, Celio, Francis, Merlin. The Lord protect you and the remainder of your family. — Yours,
John Calvin.
[Lat. copy — Library of Geneva. Yol. 111.]
CLYIII.— To YiRET.
Renewed and more pressing invitation to come to Geneva.
15th March 1546.
I have hitherto delayed writing to you, because I daily ex- pected you to come hither, as you had promised ; nor should I have written even now, as I remain in the same state of expec- tation, were it not that I might incite you to hasten your journey ; for I wonder why it is that you thus put oQ' from day to day. I remember that John de Tournay ' 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 over, although I believe that one may now be more easily procured than it could have been eight days ago, for fewer
' Nephew of Viret, and minister in the Pays de Vaud.
1546.] THEODORE VITUS. 39
couriers have passed this way during these days. Arake haste, therefore, that you may recruit a little, and gather heart again with us ; for people from your quarter say that you are half dead. Since I can draw you out by no other induce- ment, I make the announcement, that you shall have no letter from me until you come. Quick, then. — Adieu. Salute all friends. May the Lord shortly bring you in safety to us. — Yours,
John Calvin.
[Lat. orig. autogr. — Library of Geneva. Vol. IOC]
CLIX. To Theodore Vitus.'
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, l^ih March 154fi.
Your letter gave me the greater pleasure, as I had not ven- tured 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, how- ever, you would know the reason of my not writing, I refrained more from modesty than negligence. And generally the testi- mony of Philip [Melanchthon] is with me sufficient; but when no great familiarity intervenes, the crooked policy of the times sometimes makes me apprehensive. Wherefore, I am the more grateful to you for having removed every scruple. I greatly
' To the most honourable Doctor Theodore Vitus, most faithful Minister of Christ at Nuremberg.
Theodore Vitus, (Dietrich de Weit,) a distinguished theologian, friend of Luther and Melanchthon, preached the Gospel with great success in the city of Nuremberg, his native place, and was worthy of the esteem and affection of Calvin, not more on account of his learning than his moderation. lie died in 1549. Melanchthon wrote, at the foot of his portrait, the following verses :
Ingenii monumenta sui, sed plura Lutheri Edidit; his putcrunt sccla futura frui.
— [Melch. Adam, Vita Thcol. Germ. pp. 199, 200.]
40 THEODORE VITUS. [1546.
rejoice, also, to find that my pamphlet, Be Coend^ has met with your approbation.^ It was written in French ten years before. When, without my knowledge, it had been already translated into Latin by two individuals, I at length consented to its publication, being afraid, in fact, that some worse version might forestall it. A style of instruction, simple and popular, and adapted to the unlearned, shews what my purpose was from the first; fori usually write more carefully for those acquainted with Latin, I laboured, however, not only faithfully to express my views, and reduce them within a brief compass, but also to unfold them lucidly, and without technicalities. Since theu the Institution, having been revised, was again given to the public, in which, unless I am mistaken, I expound and more fully confirm the same doctrine, under a different form of ex- pression*, and with somewhat greater development. I at length also published a Catechism, which is trustworthy and pertinent evidence of the kind of doctrine with which the common people are imbued by me. Would that the people of Zurich, as you say, were willing to give their assent to that confession !'^ I do not think Luther is so unyielding but that there might easily be an agreement, and they do not, withal, venture to disapprove of my views. The chief obstacle to their giving a public assent to my doctrine is, that being preoccupied by a meaning, once and now for a length of time prescribed to them, they so stick to their customary forms as to admit nothing new. But if you consider the tyranny manifested by certain of the adverse party in the attempt to force the world, not only into their peculiar views, but also into a prescribed form of words, the furious insolence they shew, what commotions they excite, — the mode- ration as well as rectitude by which you are characterized, will
' The following is the passage of the letter of Vitus to Calvin to which he here refers : — " I have read your short address to the people on the Sacrament of the Supper, and I approve of your calling the bread and wine signs in such a sense that the things signified are in reality present. Would that they who leave only the naked signs, might be led by you to adopt that view!" — Calv. Hpist. et Besp., Anist., p. 37.
' This desire was happily realized some years afterwards, by the adoption of a common symbol on the Supper, approved alike by the theologians of Zurich and Geneva.
1546.] THEODORE VITUS. 41
lead you to condemn in the matter the absurd conduct of those parties, not less than the people of Zurich. May the Lord by his Spirit dispose us all to true moderation. You know that I am not in the habit of complaining when there is no ground for it ; nor do I doubt but that you yourself, as might be ex- pected from your eminent piety, sigh in secret over the same evils, while it is not in your power to remedy them. With respect to the assurances you give me regarding yourself, I wish you in turn to believe, that I am and always will be your sincere friend and brother. I now, with many others, request you to go on strenuously, and make no halt in your progress, until you have handed over to us Genesis completed.' For as Luther has just grounds for congratulating himself in having found such an artist to polish his works, so others experience how advantageous the labour is to the public. I may have wished, however, that you had been more sparing in your mention of the Sacramentaries, because I see that the minds of some are thereby exasp^ated, of whom there was a hope that they would be brought to moderate views. It will be for you to consider what may be more conducive to that end. I will be satisfied if you take my warning in good part, whether or not you act upon it. The Eatisbon Assembly will indeed bring forth smoke for us, which the Lord will soon dispel.'^
Here we are tranquil unless the Emperor molest us. Some suspect him of having an eye on Burgundy, with the view of threatening the kingdom of France from that quarter, while he would harass Provence by means of the young Duke of Savoy, and send in the English from the other side. I hold myself under the protection of God alone when I see that we are not far from certain danger. Adieu, most honoured sir, and most sincere friend. May the Lord Jesus ever guide and direct you by his Holy Spirit, and bless your labours. All my colleagues
' Vitus lent useful aid to Luther in the revision of his different writings, and ren- dered a real service to the Church by collecting and offering to the public the Com- mentaries of Luther on the Prophet Micab, aud the first elevea chapters of Genesis. — Melch. Adam, VitoB Theol. Germ.
* The Conference opened by the Emperor at Ratisbon, and to which Buoer had been summoned, was a more feint to divert men's minds, and to transfer the decision of the points at issue to the Council of Trent. 6
42 viRET. [1546.
respectfully salute you. To yours also you will convey the highest respects in my name, and in that of my colleagues. — Yours,
John Calvin.
[Laf. Copy, Library of Zurich, Coll. Simler. Vol. 59.]
CLX.— To ViRET.' Instructions to Viret about a journey to Geneva.
Geneva, 2&th March, he/ore 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 moroing discourse. I certainly could have wished, if your letter had arrived in time, that you had been sent for sooner. But I supposed that you had set out with Christo- pher : for that was the reason why I gave you no letter by the messenger belonging to my household. If, after preaching, you can come as far as Nyon, you will be here on Monday before supper ; but take care lest you fatigue yourself You had better come to Nyon on Monday. We shall have you with us in good time, if we get you well. Salute all the bre- thren.
May the Lord bring you to us safe and in good spirits.— Yours,
John Calvin.
\Lat. orig. autogr. — Library of Geneva. Tol. 106.]
' Viret, yielding to the entreaties of Calvin, went to Geneva towards the end of March, and there received the most honourable marks of public aflFection. We read in the Registers of Council, of date the 2d April 1546, — "Grand reception given to Farel and Viret, who had just arrived at Geneva."
1546.] MONSIEUR DE FALAIS. 43
CLXI. — To Monsieur de Falais.
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 I54G.']
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 ofi'a letter in the midst twenty times over, or even more, beyond all bounds. As regards health, I was much more feeble when I wrote to you a while ago than I am at present. But being in a good state of general bodily condition, I am unceasingly tormented with a heaviness, which, as it were, suffers me not to do anything. For, besides the sermons and lectures, there is a month already gone in which I have scarce done anything, in such wise that I am almost ashamed to live thus useless. But if it please God, of his goodness, to make use of me, he will release me and allay this ill, which holds me so fast that I can- not set about any labour of importance, to employ the leisure which he gives me. Nevertheless, he does not cease to exercise me by some means or other, in order that I may not grow rusty through laziness. If, however, he does not graciously restore me to a better condition, I am not likely ever to get on horse- back. Even more than that, were I ever to be sent for, I could not stir out of the house in such a state. But, as you observe, they let me alone, from fear of setting astir the frantic block- heads ; and on my side, I willingly give up the diets to those who have a liking for them, as for any good they do."^ I am
• On the back, in the handwriting of M. de Falais, — Received the 16th of April 1546.
'A new diet had been assembled at Ratisbon, for the pacification of the reli- gious troubles of Germany. That assembly opened in the month of June 1546,
44 MONSIEUR DE FALAIS. [1546.
glad tliat our Lord has put you out of pain as regards Norberg. As for what remains to be done, you will have an opportunity of considering what it ought to be, having been informed by J^han de Kochefort, and after having established your case, as it can be done, in coming forth out of Egypt and out of Babylon. It is like what is said by Moses and by Ezekiel, — in much stir and ivith haste. I hope, should it so please God, that all is over by this time. I would not have you to be too much astonished at the length of time you have been in receiv- ing letters from him, considering the length of the journey. But if God has been so gracious to him, and to you also, as to make a way of escape out of danger, he will not have tarried so long on the way as not to be, by this time, on his return. Thus, being at rest in regard to that matter, you will take counsel for the future.
As to Constance, I had not spoken to you, but that your present abode did not please you. When the crisis comes, how- ever, Strasbourg is more suitable, and I like it better, were it not for the reason which you allege.
In Metz,' I see a great evil, the want of guidance and of cordial interest, albeit that these are rather two evils. But God will find the remedy. We must try every method which he presents to us, and even stir up ourselves, where the means appear to be wanting. And whereas I know that you have no need to be exhorted not to spare yourself, I forbear to do so.
I am not at all amazed, if Master Peter Alexander is bold, having his chin thus held above water, and that besides he is quite accustomed at Heidelberg to hear that doctrine already for a long time past.^ He is even well aware that he has no
in presence of the Emperor, and like those which had preceded, concluded without any result whatsoever.
' The Protestants of this town, feebly supported by the league of Smalkald, and intimidated by the presence of the imperial legate, devoted to the Koman Catholic clergy, had already lost the rights which had been guarantied to them by the accord of 1643, and so found themselves deprived of the exercise of public worship and of the pastorate. — (See a letter of Myconius to Calvin, 13th November 1543. Calv. Epist. et Jtesjwnaa, Amst. p. 26.)
" In the year 1546, the Palatinate witnessed the accomplishment of a great re- ligious revolution. The Elector, Frederic II., yielding to the wish of his subjects,
8
1546.] MONSIEUR DE FALAIS. 45
Other means for advancing himself. Thus it is no wonder if he takes advantage of it where there is no danger at all. But I see quite well that he is not an over-confident man, were it only by his conclusions. "What is worse, he makes a stupid blunder in this, that he says, the swearing an oath is forbidden by God ; and that with a blasphemy, inasmuch as he attributes authority to Saint Paul to permit what has been prohibited by his Master ; but these are matters for the civil magistrate to decide.
The Apology would be much better drawn up where you are than at a distance. This I say not to exempt myself, but in- asmuch as I think that such is the case; for I am quite ready to undertake the employment. So also would Master Peter Yiret, but his style of writing would not be altogether suited to such an argument, owing to his want of conciseness. And for myself I would have to bite my nails in more than a hun- dred passages, if we could not confer together so as to resolve by common accord what might be fit to say or to omit. Never- theless, we shall take care to meet your wish whenever you shall have come to a determination upon the whole case and the state of your affairs. Howbeit, I have retained no memo- randum of the particulars beside me. What I have told you about the Emperor, was not so much to find fault with what has been done, as to set forth the reason why it ought not to be inserted so as to be seen. I praise our Lord that the pre- sent of my Commentary is agreeable to you. In conformity with your answer, our brother sent his translation to Vende- liu, addressing the preface to you, in order that having seen it beforehand, you may judge what course shall appear to you to be expedient.
The request which I made to you so affectionately, not to separate your household from the French Church,' was not founded upon any report, but solely upon a passage of your letter
proclaimed the establishment of the Reformation, and the abolition of the old worship in his states. The chief instrument of that revolution was the minister Paul Fagitis, the disciple of Capito. — Sleidan, Comment, lib. xvi. p. 266. De Thou, lib. ii. c. 3.
■ The French Church of Strasbourg, of which Calvin had been pastor during his exile from Geneva.
46 MONSIEUR DE PALAIS. [1546.
wbere you signify that you were in course of doing so, not perceiving any amendment in that quarter. It suffices, that I am aware of your intention, so as not- to be further trouble- some to you on that score. I see indeed the reasons you may have, but I take into view the scandal which would thence arise. All is well, since you have condescended to my request.
I would desire, Monseigneur, that the hundred crowns [escus] might be sent to the lady, and they would be returned to you forthwith, sending to the Ladies de Tilly what is resting due to them, since the father shews himself such a one as he is. I would earnestly wish, that in disposing ourselves willingly and patiently to bear the cross, we were framing our shoulders to such a charge. But these are matters about which we shall better talk together than we can write.
I pray you to hold me excused, if I do not as yet signify my opinion of the translation of the Sermons of Messire Bernar- dino.' I may, however, speak a word in your ear, that they are more useful in Italian than in other languages, were it not that the name of the man is of use ; and then there is such a variety of minds, that it is not amiss to endeavour to draw some of them by that means. Of the translator, I shall let you know my opinion, please God, in a few words shortly.
As touching the apology of the ladies,'^ I think, Monseigneur, you have my opinion of it signified already in brief, at least I would here declare it, that the author has not observed what the Latins call decorum. For the course of procedure is un-
' Introduced by Calvin to Myconius, Ochino made but a very short stay at Bale, where those writings made their appearance which have been such a blot upon his memory. In 1545 he went to Augsbourg, where he became minister to the congrega^ tion of Italian refugees until the epoch of the Interim, which was the cause of his be- taking himself to England. His leanings toward heterodoxy were veiled from the eyes of every one, except perhaps the clear-sighted discernment of Calvin, who valued his abilities, without having an entire confidence in the solidity of his doctrines. The ever-recurring changes of his unsettled life led him, at a later period, to class him- self with the sect of the anti-Trinitarians. His discourses, so much admired by Car- dinal Bembo, and the Emperor Charles V. himself, are less remarkable for their purity of doctrine than for the warmth of feeling and the poetical flash of the style. They have been printed under the following title : Predtche di Ifesser Bernardino Ochino, 1543, and reprinted on several occasions; but we are not aware of any translation, whether Latin or French. See Schelhorn, Erg'dtzUchkeiten, torn. iii. pp. 2022, 21G1, 2166, and pp. 2174-2179.
' The sisters of M. de Falais.
1546.] MONSIEUR DE FALAIS. 47
befitting the individuals. Everybody will not perceive tliis, only those who have their wits about them. This is the reason why I have retained it beside me.
The letters of Diaz ' were not needed to shew me on what authority you had opened those which he might write to me. For you have sufficient authority without any one else giving it to you, I humbly thank you for the offer which you have so kindly made for the baptism of our child.^ And now, Monsieur, to conclude, after having humbly, and with all pos- sible kindly affection, commended me to your good favour and that of Madame, and having also presented the humble saluta- tions of my wife, I pray our good Lord to guide you always as he has done, shewing himself the true protector both of you and of all that concerns you.
Your humble brother, servant, and ever your entire friend,
John Calvin.
[Fr. orig. autogr. — Library of Geneva. Vol. 194.]
CLXII. — To Monsieur de Falais.
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.
Itth April 1546.
MoNSEiGNEUR, — You sec here what I have done desiring to comply with your wish.^ That it shall altogether satisfy you
' Juan Diaz, originally of Cuenf a, in Spain, studied letters at the University of Paris, and was distinguished, amid the scholars of his nation, "by superior learning, adorned with pure morals, great mildness, prudence, and benignity." Initiated in the knowledge of the Gospel, he left Paris and visited Geneva, Bale, Strasbourg, where he acquired the friendship of Bucer, whom he accompanied into Germany. The Jesuit, Malvenda, a stout defender of Popish idolatry, having made vain efforts to lead him back to the Romish Church, the adversaries of Juan Diaz planned a most detestable conspiracy against his life, and, on the 27th of March, he was assassinated by order of Alphonso Diaz, his own brother, who bad come from Rome in order to the accom- plishment of this execrable outrage, the instigator of which remained unpunished. — Sec the record of this odious fratricide in Sleidan, and Ilistoire dea 3farti/rs, pp. 162, 168 ; and Letter CLXIII.
* Calvin had this year a child by his wife, Idelette de Bure, which died in the birth.
^ At the request of M. de Falais, Calvin had prepared an apology for his Lord-
48 MONSIEUR DE FALATS. [1546.
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, possible it is that I might have done better. But since these two things have been wanting to me, I pray you that you may please hold me as excused. It would not have cost me very much to fill up a much larger extent of paper; but I have studied brevity, thinking that nothing could be better, considering the personage to whom the writing is addressed. It did not occur to Saint Andrd that it wanted anything, except that, on having come to the passage about your retirement, you might insist upon deducting separately in detrvil the travelling expenses which you had incurred up to that time. I had, indeed, thought of another conclusion to be urged, but because I did not well know how to keep within bounds, I have let it alone. You will exercise your own discretion as to adding an article to that effect, if you think fit, namely, with regard to the pro- perty, which you did not venture to make any other request to him about, fearing that it would be trouble thrown away, to speak to him about the property before being reinstated in his good graces, and also because that is the thing you most of all desire and prefer to anything else. In any event, let it please him to have regard to such a family, and not allow himself to be led by those who only seek its destruction. I know not whether it would be of advantage to your brothers ' to make
ship, which waf? to be presented to the Emperor at the Diet of Ratisbon. This me- morial, drawn up at first in French, then translated into Latin, and along with a pro- fession of faith, containing valuable details for the history of M. de Falais, has the following title : — Apology of the very lllnstriong Lord James of Burgundy, of Falnine, and of Breda, wherein he has wiped away the accusat-ions wheretoith he has been branded in the night of the Imperial Majesty, and sets forth the Confession of his Faith. This morceau has been published by the Amsterdam editor at the end of the letters of Calvin to M. de Falais.
' M. de Falais had five brothers. Those alone of whom mention is made in the letters of Calvin, are John, Peigneur de Fremont, and Feter, Pronotary apostolic, who had embraced the Reformation.
1546.] MONSIEUR DE FALAIS. 49
mention of them. You will consider about that. Towards the end, it would be needful to add an express clause, to remove the suspicion that you had too great regret, declaring that for the honour of God you bear the loss patiently, beseeching God that he would always make you sensibly aware of the work of Jesus Christ, and of the benefits bestowed on you by him, so as to reckon all things but loss and dung in comparison of him. If you determine to enter upon the subject of the property, it appears to me that it would be advisable to mention it thus briefly; I have explained the reason why I have not done so. But to proceed, Monseigneur, I have detained the man who has brought me your last, hoping that he would be the mes- senger to carry you this answer. But, at the end of six days, there has occurred a sudden piece of business to Sire Nicolas the present bearer. I have thereupon sent away the other, delivering to his care the two young children, because he could not have arrived so soon. He has been sufficiently admonished, not so much by me as by the others, to settle and choose some manner of livelihood ; but I see clearly that he is not yet tired of running about. That arises in part from his too great sim- plicity,— for he has no great head-piece. Some clodpole, scarcely wiser than himself, had whispered in his ear in passing, that I would be quite able to recommend him to Berne, and put him in the way of bis becoming a preacher. I have done every- thing to repress such an expectation : but he does not leave off his roving about ; and although he seems to approve an advice when offered to him, immediately afterwards he begins to do the same thing again. I am sorry for it, for in other re- spects, I find him well disposed, and without malice.
As for the business of Sire Nicolas, the case is thus : — He had no means of squaring his accounts, but in taking the place which had been adjudged in hypothec to another preferable creditor, having struck off' some pieces for law expenses. Thus he would have been excluded, had he not undertaken to reim- burse the other party. What is worse, he who held the security was himself under hypothec elsewhere, in danger that his pro- perty might be sold, and needed to re-assure his interest therein. The subject is well worth what the said Nicolas has bargained
50 MONSIEUR DE FALAIS. [1546.
for. The hardship was for him, that he would have had to pay seven hundred crowns before next Easter, and also that it is too large for him. But the necessity made him forget all that. It is true that he has to receive from Sire Antony Sieglessen a sum in satisfaction thereof, but he fears that it may not be ready at so short a term, seeing that he will have to transact with people who have no pity. In that perplexity, he has thought that if, peradventure, Antony de Sieglessen might not so readily be forthcoming with that which he has to receive from him, you would afibrd him some assistance, for a month, or six weeks' delay, on his giving you the security of Sire Antony and the place, on good and equitable terms. When he asked advice of me, I requested him to try all means before having recourse to you, which he had already indeed determined, as he told me, but that it was his last remedy. In any event, however, he would bring you letters of assurance over the place. To this I have not agreed, fearing lest it might appear to you that it would have the effect of protracting a settlement, promising to him to assure you that the responsi- bility lies not with himself but with me.
I have wished much to make this statement to you, Monsei- gneur, on purpose that you should be informed, that he did not rashly go beyond his authority, but that he had been constrained thereto ; in order also, that when he could nowise do without your help, you might the more be induced to aid him. I can indeed assure you, that there will be no risk, for the assignment is quite valid. And if money were to be had here, he would not need to stir out of the house. But the country is stripped so bare of money, that it is lamentable, the more so that there is more due to him at Strasbourg than he has need for. I do not take upon me to ask it of you, for that is not my business. In so far as I have endeavoured to remove the doubts which might prevent you, I hope you will take it in good part, and that you will not ascribe it to importunity. Besides that, it is my duty, for I have been the cause, along with Monsieur David, of involving him in this anxiety. For we made the first pur- chase in his absence, because the said Monsieur David was fully resolved from that time forward to complete the transaction.
1546.] MONSIEUR DE FALAIS. 51
I believe that you have been otherwise informed of the death of the Marquis of Guasto.' We are not aware what the Emperor intends to do, except that people are coming from Naples toward Genoa. One can scarce think that he would go so far for pastime as to Argiers. And, indeed, I believe, that considering himself secure upon the side of France, and leaving the English to occupy the King's attention, having fully ordered everything to his own advantage in Germany, he would not make a mere feint of going to Argiers.*
Master William Farel and Master Peter Viret, in passing from hence, have requested me to present you their humble commendations. They have been here eight days to my great comfort, except in so far as they have made me put off my ex- cusing myself to you. I am glad of your well-disposeduess, and principally for your cheerfulness, and also because I hope that it will prove a means of our seeing you. We shall, in the meanwhile, however, pray God, that he would restore you from better to better, albeit that we must not look, neither you nor myself, to be ever of much worth in this world.
We have made Saint-Andr^ preacher, at which possibly you will be amazed. He did not look or it; and I believe also, that at the first move his courage would not have inclined him that way. But we have made conscience of it, seeing his zeal and readiness, not to leave him always idle. I hope that God will make use of him for the profit and upbuilding of his Church. He has not been brought to it without a struggle, but perceiving that the call was from on high, he has not re- sisted it.
To conclude, Monseigneur, after having presented the humble commendations as well of myself as of my wife to your kind favour and to that of Madame, I shall supplicate our good Lord to have you always in his protection, guiding you with a view to his honour, as he has done hitherto, and shewing
• Alphonso d'Avalos, Marquis of Guasto, governor of the Milanese, and one of the ablest generals of Charles the Fifth. He died in 1546.
'The Emperor, in 1544, had undertaken a disastrous expedition against the town of Argiers. The military movements which were then going forward in Italy, were in- tended to cover his real projects of attack against the Protestant princes of Germany.
52 PAREL. [1546.
himself so powerful in you, that we may always acknowledge the fruit of that great victory with which Jesus Christ con- soles us.
Your humble servant and brother in our Lord Jesus,
John Calvin.
When I had finished these presents, I received the sad news of the death of good Diaz.' But it so happens, that the un- happy Papists shew more and more that they are led by the spirit of their father, who has been a murderer from the be- ginning.
[Fr. orig. autogr. — Library of Geneva. Vol. 194.]
CLXIII.— To Farel.»
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 vile-
' See the following letter.
" The Ecclesiastical Ordinances, digested by Calvin and adopted by the councils of the republic, daily encountered the keenest opposition in the heart of a party which reckoned at its head men belonging to the most distinguished families among tho Genevese. The Consistory and Councils together took care that the laws were rigidly enforced, and checked improprieties without respect of persons. The Captain-General, Amy Perrin, the Syndic Corna, and several other persons, having, contrary to tha prohibitions, danced in a private house, " It is ordained," as is contained in the Regis- ters of 12th April 1546, "that they all be imprisoned j" and with regard to the wife of Amy Perrin, who spoke insolently to the Consistory, that she also be imprisoned, and be required to find security. Perrin, to avoid undergoing the punishment pro- nounced against him, had recourse to the pretext of a journey to Lyons; but he was incarcerated on his return. The Syndic Corna acknowledged his fault, and, after a deposition of some days, he was reinstated in his ofiBce. The minister, Henry de la Mare, was deposed, for having been present at the ball, and taken the side of the dance and dancers against the Consistory. See Begiatera of Council, April 1546.
1546.] FAREL. 53
ness 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 per- sisted in their contumacy. When I was fully informed of the state of the case, I could do nothing but call God to witness that they would pay the penalty of such perfidy ; I, at the same time, however, announced my resolution of unbaring the truth, even though it should be at the cost of my own life, lest they should imagine that any profit was to come of lying. Francisca also, the wife of Perrin, grossly abused us, because "we were so opposed to the Favres.' I replied as seemed proper, and as she deserved. I inquired whether their house was in- violably sacred, whether it owed no subjection to the laws ? We already detained her father in prison, being convicted of one act of adultery,^ the proof of a second was close at hand ; there was a strong report of a third ; her brother had openly contemned and derided the Senate and us. Finally, I added, that a new city must be built for them, in which they might live apart, unless they were willing to be restrained by us here under the yoke of Christ ; that so long as they were in Geneva, they would strive in vain to cast off" obedience to the laws ; for were there as many diadems in the house of the Favres as frenzied heads, that that would be no barrier to the Lord being superior. Her husband had meanwhile gone to Lyons, hoping that the matter would be silently buried. I thought that they should be forced to a confession of the truth by an oath. Corna warned them that he would by no means suffer them to perjure themselves. They not only confessed what we wished, but that
' At the head of the opposition to the ministers were observed the different mem- bers of the family of Francis Favre, a dissolute old man, and father-in-law of Amy Perrin. Francisca, his daughter, wife of the latter, made herself remarkable by the violence of her invectives against the Consistory. " They remonstrated with her, and made no more account of herself and her father than of the lowest in the city. Being again interrogated whether she would name the dancers, twice replied, that she would rather submit to punishment, and be dragged before all the justices, than appear be- fore the Consistory." — Notes Extracted from the Registers of the Comiatory of Geneva, by the late Syndic Cramer, 4to, 1853.
" " That the father-in-law of Amy Perrin, who has committed adultery, be also im- prisoned, and put upon his trial." — Eeyistera of Council. Ibid
54 FAREL. [1546.
the}', on that day, danced at the house of the widow of Bal- thazar, They were all cast into prison. The Syndic was an illustrious example of moderation ; for he publicly spoke against himself and the whole herd so severely, that it was un- necessary to say much to him. He was, however, severely ad- monished in the Consistory, being deposed from his office until he gave proof of repentance. They say that Perrin has returned from Lyons; whatever he may do, he will not escape punish- ment. Henry was stripped of his office with our consent. With him there fell out a ludicrous enough altercation. He had admitted that what had been taken down from the witnesses was true. Meanwhile he had recourse to the defence, 'Against an elder admit no accusation unless before two or three wit- nesses.' I inquired whose saying this was, — ' Out of thine own mouth I judge thee, worthless servant ;' for that now the case did not lie in the trustworthiness of the witnesses, but in his confession. Besides, when he repudiated the witnesses, that he was pressed by the dilemma, either his confession was true or it was false : if true, there was no further ground for hesitation ; but if he had said what was false, he was to be held as answerable for perjury, because he had sworn to some- thing different from the reality. It therefore came to this, that he might say that he had spoken falsely and without regard to principle. When he said that it was unfair that he should be pressed by one who ought to have been his defender, I inquired by what obligation I was bound to him to defend a bad cause, for that I had taken no oath to the Franciscan faction. Much was said to the man, backwards and forwards, but the result was, that he departed loaded with the reproach and odium of all. Being deprived of his ministry, he was, at the same time, thrust into prison, whence, however, he was liberated in three days. There he was a strenuous patron of the dances, that he might embitter, as far as was in his power, the hatred towards me of those who were already more than sufficiently alienated from me. But whatever Satan may essay by the like of him, he will afford a striking example. For two things are already matter of public talk, that there is no hope of impunity since even the first people of the city are not spared, and that I show
1546.] FAREL. 55
no more favour to friends than to those opposed to me. Perrin with his wife rages in prison; the widow is absolutely furious; the others are silent from confusion and shame.
Diaz, the Spaniard, whom you saw here, Viret, at the house of Des Gallars, and who, setting out from Neuchatel for Ger- many, had passed through with the two Senarclens, was most cruelly put to death. When the Emperor was said to be ap- proaching, he had repaired to Neubourg, a town under the rule of Duke Otho Henry. From that place he wrote to me on the 13th of March. He had a brother at Rome of the name of Alphonso, who came thither with the express design of making away with this godly man. They conferred together for some days. When Juan observed that he was of no service, he left Alphonso. The latter, pretending that he had forgotten some- thing, sends a servant to recall his brother, and put him to death in the house. He followed him to the house, nor did he believe the domestic that the slaughter had been perpe- trated until he himself had viewed the corpse. Then he hurried off on fleet horses to the county of Tyrol.' Duke Otho sent the prefect of the palace to demand that he should be given up to punishment. Unless Ferdinand be willing to throw into con- fusion all things, both human and divine, he must of necessity avenge so base and abominable an outrage. For the prefect has at the same time surrendered himself a prisoner.
Adieu, dearest brethren ; may God ever protect you. Salute all friends. You, Farel, will convey to the heads of the citizens my best greeting. I wish that I could one day creep your length, in whatever way it might be possible. — All ours salute you.
[Calvi7i's Lat. Corresp. — Opera, torn. ix. p. 38.]
' See the whole of this narrative in the HiHoire dea Martyra, from the traot of Claude de Senarclens : Vera Historia de Morte Joannia Diazii Hiapani. 1546.
56 AMY PERRIN. [1546.
CLXIV.— To Amy Perrin.^
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 notdo your duty, because you had per- haps not been warned, I desired you at least to be present at the close of the meeting to-day, that the Syndic Corna and I might there discuss the matter with you. What there was to prevent you Ido notsee. Butthislwish you to consider, that we cannot enjoy weight for weight with an unequal balance; and if impar- tiality must be observed in the administration of human law, any departure from it cannot be tolerated in the Church of God. You
' Letter without date, of which the original French is lost. It is here reproduced from the Latin translation inserted in the collection of the published Latin letters of Calvin, with restoration of date, April 1546.
Amy Perrin, one of the earliest hearers of Farel and Froment at Geneva, contribu- ted powerfuUj' to the disenthralment and reformation of his native country. At one with the Reformers in the abolition of the ancient worship and in the proclamation of the new, which he regarded as the security for the independence of Geneva, he broke with them the moment they undertook to correct manners, after having reformed be- liefs. Ho then became the head of that party of undisciplined children of Geneva, "who wished to live according to their own inclination, without suflFering themselves to be restrained by the words of the preachers," and whose triumph led to the banish- ment of the ministers, (1538.) Commissioned, two years afterwards, to negotiate their recall, he appeared to be reconciled to Calvin, and to submit to the institutions of the Calvinistic discipline; but the submission could not be lasting, and we again find him, in 1545, along with Pierre Vandel and the two Bertheliers, at the head of the party that must needs continue to strive with the ministers, until their total defeat, (May 1555.) Of an irascible temperament, of easy and frivolous manners. Amy took pleasure in fetes, and in appearing in public magnificently dressed. Being accused (see the preceding letter) of having taken part in unlawful dances, he refused to compear be- fore the Consistory, incurred, with his wife, the just rigours of the Seigneury, and be- came the implacable enemy of Calvin, who, in a letter at once moderate and powerful, essayed in vain to bring him back to the path of obedience and duty.
1546.] AMY ri-RRiN. 57
yourself either know, or at least ought to know, what I am ; that, at all events, I am one to whom the law of my heavenly Master is so dear, that the cause of no man on earth will induce me to flinch from maintaining it with a pure conscience. I cannot believe that you yourself have any other end in view, but I observe that no one has his eyes wide enough open when the case is his own. As far as I am concerned, I desire, in this very matter, to consult not only the edification of the Church and your salvation, but also your convenience, name, and leisure ; for how odious would be the imputation which is likely to fall upon you, that you were apparently free from and unre- strained by the common law, to which every one is subject? It is certainly better, and in accordance with my zeal for your welfare, to anticipate the danger than that you should be so branded. I have heard, indeed, what has proceeded from your house, viz., that I should take care lest I stir up a slumbering fire, lest what occurred before should again take place, in the course of the seventh year. But these speeches have no weight with me ; for I did not return to Geneva either for the sake of leisure or of gain, nor will it again grieve me to be constrained to leave it. The convenience and safety of Church and State made me willing to return ; and if measures are now being taken against me alone, I should wish it to be said, once for all, to all who think me troublesome, " "What you do, do quickly." But yet, the unworthy treatment and ingratitude of some parties will not cause me to fail in my duty, and I will lay aside that devoted attachment to this place only with my last breath, of which I take God as my voucher. Nor will I ever so far yield to the humours of any other individual, as here- after to dispense with his personal attendance. These observa- tions do not refer to you, but to that member of your family that is nearest to you. Nor do I write them with the view of spreading quarrels, but that it may be manifest with what firm- ness I am about to proceed, whatever may happen. I am especially desirous to impress upon you the necessity of ear- nestly seeking to acquire the primary virtue of obedience to God, and respect for the common order and politT of the Church. May the Lord protect you by his own defence, and discover to
58 FAREL AND VIRET. [1546.
you how greatly even the stripes of a sincere friend are to be preferred to the treacherous blandishments of others! — Adieu. Your attached and sincere brother,
John Calvin.
[Calvin's hit. Corresp. Opera, torn. ix. p. 80.]
CLXY.— To Farel and Viret.^
Requests in favour of the faithful in France.
Geneva, 1«« May 1546.
This pious brother is a citizen of Uz^s,^ 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 indica- tions, 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, aware of the hollowness of courts, but there will be no harm in making trial. I should not have refused what they strenuously insisted upon, viz., that I should undertake this journey, were! not still a prisoner, so slow is the process of my convalescence. I hardly know what progress I have hitherto made towards recovery, unless that my sufferings are allayed.^ I have, therefore, left
' MeYiaced by a common peril, and having equally to resist the pretensions of Charles V. to universal rule, the King of France and the Protestant Princes of Ger- many had resumed negotiations, that must seemingly issue in a lasting treaty. This treaty of alliance was for long the object of the prayers and the hopes of Calvin, who reckoned upon extracting from it advantageous results to the French Protestants, and an implicit toleration for churches until then subjected to the most violent persecutions. He pressed Farel and Viret, one or other, to repair to Germany, to hasten the progress of negotiations and determine the conditions of the alliance.
" Is this Uzes a small town of Languedoc, now comprised in the department of Gard ? Eeza and the historian of the martyrs furnish us with no information on this point.
^ Desirous of rendering assistance to Calvin during his illness and recovery, the Seigneurs of Geneva decided upon allowing him an attendant at the public expense. — Registers of Council, 4th March 1546.
1546.] FAREL AND VIRET. 59
this duty to one of you. Whoever of you finds it convenient will provide the expenses. As you, Viret,' are on the eve of setting out for Berne, it is right that our friend Farel be relieved by you of this burden, if the Senate give its permission. But if you shall not be free to go, Farel himself, I know, will spare neither himself nor his age; certainly otherwise he will be absolutely indispensable. Wherefore, if leave of absence be den ied to Viret, take care you do not fail, Farel, for I have almost given a pledge in your name to the brethren. It remains with you, therefore, to fulfil the pledge, even though it were given rashly. Moreover, because, from the present state of the king- dom, it would be in vain to ask of the King what he ought to do of his own accord, we have judged that he must at least be required to undertake the commission of inquiry. This, again, will be equivalent to interdicting the Parliaments from engaging in it. In the next place, he must be asked to nominate extra- ordinary impartial judges. If this is obtained, a great step will be made. To aim at anything beyond this would, as I said, be superfluous. If the Chancellor is disposed to favour us, all will be well.^ But as he is timid and tardy, we must see to it that he is vigorously urged on. Accordingly, not less pains must be taken in these secondary matters than in those of prime im- portance. But abjuration is always to be expressly excluded; for we do the work of Satan, if we open up a path to the godly whereby they may be permitted to abjure Christ. I diligently commend the whole matter, first to Master James Sturm, whose authority in the conventions is of the highest order; in the next place to Bucer, that he may stimulate those whom he can; again to Sturm and Dr. Ulrich, that they may also interpose the weight of their personal influence. The affair itself will give you counsel. You are not, however, tyros. May the Lord
1 Viret waa on the point of repairing to Berne, in order to discuss certain mntters relative to the ordinances of the Reformation in the Pays de Vaud. — Ruchat, vol. v. p. 298.
"After the disgrace of the Chancellor Poyet, this high oflSce was filled by Franfois Olivier, Seigneur of Louville, President of the Parliament of Paris. lie resigned in 1550, and again became Chancellor in 1559, in order to give his sanc- tion to the lamentable executions of Amboise, which he survived only for a short time.
60 MADAME DE FALAIS. [1546.
prosper his journey wlio shall undertake this sacred cause. — Yours,
John Calvin.
[Lat. orig. autogr. — Library of Geneva. Yol. 106.]
CLXYII. — To Madame de Falais.
Expression of Christian sympathy and condolence on occasion of the illness of M. de
Falais.
From Geneva, this 2l8i of June [1546.']
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.^ 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 pity upon us in this strait, we must look patiently for an outlet such as he shall please to send; and whichsoever way he disposes thereof, that we may be prepared to bear with it in suchwise that it must effectually appear how obedient we are to him. Bethink yourself, also, how by that wearisome sickness and so many relapses, our Lord admonishes you, before the blow, so to strengthen you, that you may not be taken by surprise, whatever may happen. How- ever the event may be, I do well believe that for all that, al- though he may get the better of it, we must not count, neither he nor myself, upon a long sojourning here below. And pos- sibly you also may very soon after follow us. But, after all, I do not give up hope of more gladsome news.
To conclude, Madame, after having humbly commended me to your good graces, I pray our good Lord to have ever his eye
' On the back, in the handwriting of M. de Falais : " Received the 22d Julj." This note, taken in connection with the beginning of the next letter to M. de Falais, settles the date of the present one.
* M. de Falais was at the time dangerously ill.
1546.] FAREL. 61
upon you, and to make you know it by experience for your consolation, increasing in you all those graces with which his children ought to be enriched.
Your humble brother, servant, and old friend,
John Calvin.
My wife presents you her humble commendations. [Orig. aiitogr. — Library of Geneva. Vol. 194.]
CLXVIII.— To Farel.'
Excitement caused at Geneva by the Representation of a Play.
Geneva, 4^^ Jult/ 1546.
Our plays narrowly escaped being converted into tragedy. AVhen 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. When the day was coming on, Michael, (who had done so once be- fore,) instead of preaching, inveighed against the actors ; but so vehement was this second invective, that a concourse of
' Certain persons having obtained from the magistrate permission to act in public a Morality, entitled, TTie Acta of the Apoetlee, which had received the approbation of the ministers; one of them, named Michael Cop, less conciliatory than his colleagues, preached a very violent discourse in the church of St. Peter, and said that the women who should mount the theatre to act that farce, would be shameless creatures. These ■words stirred up a great tumult in the city, and Calvin required to put forth all his influence to quiet the agitation, and to preserve the life of his imprudent colleague.
The plays were celebrated in presence of Viret. "It is ordained," say the Regis- ters of Council, "that booths be erected for our seigneurs, that they may comfortably witness the representation of the Acts of the Apostles." — 1st July 1546. It does not appear, however, that these representations were frequently repeated. " Upon the remonstrances of the ministers," we read in the Registers, "resolved to delay the re- presentations of the theatre to a less calamitous time." — July 1546. Ruchnt, vol. v. p. 313. The minister inculpated was not Abel Poupin, as Ruchat relates, but Michael Cop, as the Registers attest
62 FAREL. [1546
people straightway made towards me with loud shouts, threats, and what not. And had I not by a strong effort restrained the fury of some of them, they would have come to blows. I en- deavoured in the second discourse toappease theirexasperation, observing moderation, for I judged that he bad acted impru- dently in having at an unseasonable time chosen such a theme for declamation. But his extravagance was the more dis- pleasing, since I could by no means approve of what he had said. He maintained it to be true; I firmly denied it. There ■were some of the brethren who encouraged the man in his obstinacy. About nine in the evening, I was told that a hundred or thereabouts would meet on the following day in the council-room. I immediately called the brethren together: we came to the resolution that we ought to accompany Michael. He was hardly suffered to go out along with me. I bring him to the place of meeting; meanwhile I order the others to be sent for. His accusers indicate their refusal to speak while we are present ; for they said they had no concern with me, be- yond that they regarded me with reverence, and were therefore unwilling to enter into any dispute with me. I strenuously insist that the cause is common, until it appear that Michael has erred in bis duty. We are ordered to withdraw to separate sides of the house; from the opposite party arise seditious shouts ; they threateningly assert that they would have killed Michael were it not that they revered me. To restrain the tumult, he was detained in the council-room, but in a respect- ful manner. On the following day, by the favour of the Lord, we quieted all disturbances ; for Abel,' by the esteem in which he is held, and I by my authority, prevailed with the actors. The senate, however, was on our side, I was so far displeased with it, that it was not more courageous and spirited, for as usual it behaved too timidly ; the result is, that the games are now going on. Yiret is present as a spectator, who has again returned, according to arrangement, with a view to restore our furious friend to sanity.^
' The minister, Abel Poupin, exerted his interest with the actors to appease the tumult excited by his colleague.
" It is seen by this instance, that Calvin was not so stern as to proscribe public
1546.] MONSIEUR DE FALAIS, 63
Of your brothers I hear absolutely nothing. There is with you one Elie Limousin by name, a native of Rochelle, who has now in a third letter asked me to certify to you what I have known of his former life. Pious people who come from that district declare that he was an upright man, and of hon- ourable life, and also that he was unmarried when he removed thence to us. There is no reason, therefore, why any suspicion of this nature should be a hindrance to his marriage. You will apologize for my not having replied to him, and also for having so cursorily gone over to you what perhaps demanded a longer discourse. Adieu, dearest brother in the Lord, and most sincere friend. Salute respectfully all the brethren ; there is no salutation from any one here to you or them, as no one knew I was going to write except Nicolas, the father-in- law of a brother, who came in. May the Lord be ever present with you, and bless your sacred labours. [Calvin's Lat. Corresp. Opera, torn. ix. p. 43.]
CLXYIII. — To Monsieur de Falais.
Proposals of matrimony on behalf of Viret.
Geneva, 4<^ 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 con- cerning you, on account of the rumour which is abroad. The Lord graciously vouchsafe that you may have matter wherewith to gladden us. Now, however, since the bearer has been tarry- ing for a while, I have taken upon me. Monsieur, to make a
games and amusements that harmonized with decency. " He himself made no scruple in engaging in play with the seigneurs of Geneva; but that was the innocent game of the key, which consists in being able to push the keys the nearest possible to the edge of a table." — Morus, quoted Hist, de la Suisse, vol. xi. p. 356.
G4: MONSIEUK DE FALAIS. [1546
request of you. You know that our brother Viret is about to marry. I am in as great anxiety about it as himself. We have plenty of wives here, both at Lausanne and at Orbe ; but yet there has not hitherto appeared a single one with whom I should feel at all satisfied. While we have this matter in hand, I would beseech you earnestly, if you have remarked any one in your quarter who appears to you likely to suit him, that you would please let me know of it. I have not thought fit to apply to any other than yourself, seeing that every one has not the prudence which is herein required. You may reply to me, that I am at least acquainted with some one in your neighbourhood; but I shall not venture to breathe a word before having your opinion, which you can tell me in one word, for I shall hold your silence for a non placet} I have not felt the least difficulty in addressing you privately in regard to this, although the subject may be rather delicate, for the necessity of the case would excuse me, were I even somewhat importunate, because there was no one else in whom it appeared safe to confide ; and I am well aware that, for your part, knowing of how much consequence the marriage of such a man is for the Church of God, you would not spare yourself any pains therein. Indeed, I would not hinder your acting directly for him, supposing that a suitable party can be found there ; but in regard to asking advice, I have taken for granted that you will allow me that liberty.
In conclusion, Monseigneur, after having commended me to your kind favour with such affection as that wherewith I love you, I pray our good Lord to have always a care of you, guid- ing you in suchwise that you may be more and more service- able for the advancement of his glory.
Your servant, humble brother, and entire friend,
John Calvin.
\Fr. copy — Library of Geneva. Vol. 194.]
' Allusion to a sister of M. de Falais,
1546.] VI RET. 65
CLXIX.— To ViRET.
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 me the more solicitous about pre-occui pying the ground in good time, lest we be obstructed by having to make excuses. To-day, as far as I gather, he will enter upon the subject with me, for we are both invited by Corna to supper. I will gain time by a civil excuse. It would tend to promote the matter if I, with your permission, should ask her. I have seen her twice; she is very modest, with an exceedingly becoming countenance and person. Of her manners, all speak so highly that John Parvi lately told me, he had been captivated by her. Adieu ; may the Lord govern you by his counsel, and bless us in an undertaking of such moment. — Yours,
John Calvin.
[Lat. orig. autogr. — Library of Geneva. Yol. 106.]
CLXX.— To ViRET.
Freeh details regarding the projects for his marriage.
Geneva, 15f^ Juli/ 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 em- ployed, presently interrupted the conversation; for he said that the matter was completed. On hearing this our friend in- 9
68 viRET. [1546.
stantly sprung up from table, and, in bis usual way, gave reins to bis indignation ; for, says be, bis wbole body sbaking, "Will be tben marry that girl of low connections? Could tbere not be found for him in tbe city one of better family? Wboever bave been tbe originators or abettors of tbis business, I regard tbem as vile and infamous. Of a brotber and sister I am tbus unwillingly compelled to speak." I, in reply, say, "I could not be tbe originator of it, inasmucb as tbe young lady was unknown to me. I acknowledge tbat I was a promoter of it, and, indeed, tbe principal one; but tbat tbe matter is finally settled, as Dominic has asserted, is not true, beyond tbis, tbat I bave gone so far in it tbat to draw back would be dishonour- able. In tbat tbere is nothing for me to be ashamed of." His fury was tbus turned into laughter. But be again began to grow Lot, because tbe matter bad been concealed from bim by you. He was especially inflamed witb a foolish jealousy, because Corna confessed tbat you and be, while riding, bad talked over tbe thing togetber. "Is it even so?" be proceeded to say to Corna. "Was it for tbis I attended bim along witb you, that be migbt in tbe most insulting manner shut out from bis counsels tbe most attached friend be has in tbe world? [for] I would cbeerfully prefer bim to myself."
I objected tbat be himself drew a false conclusion, since you bad not disclosed your mind even to Farel. He was, therefore, again pacified, though be talked of the daughter of Eameau, whom be extolled in an extraordinary manner. I nodded as- sent to all the encomiums, that I migbt remain firm in regard to tbe other party.
Consider, now, wbetber it be expedient for you to come into tbe city disengaged. For there will be a hateful apologizing, if they proceed to obtrude her upon you. I know how danger- ous even it maybe to give a promise before tbe natural dispo- sition of the girl has been ascertained. I am full of anxiety, nor can I easily clear a way for myself. I think, however, that this course would not be ridiculous. Suppose you consent to my asking tbe young lady in your name, the condition being added, tbat before tbe betrothal takes place, you are to meet her, tbat we may give some certain promise. T|?ey will thus not
1546,] viRET. 67
dare to press you. Write in return, therefore, by the earliest possible messenger what your views are, although, at the same time, I give it as my advice that you should not delay long, but come on an early day. Of the lady, I hear nothing that is not highly pleasing. In her father and mother, also, there is nothing blamable. I am the more confirmed, when I see that our opponents have nothing to carp at beyond this, that it was impossible for them to frighten us from our purpose. There are some things about the daughter of Rameau which I fear ; nevertheless, as it is your own affair, you will be free to choose. I will never, however, allow that there is any man on earth who has greater concern about his own matters than I have about the present.
This youth came to us from Italy, with the view of giving his attention to sacred literature, if a situation had been found such as he had hoped for. But as he has been disappointed, he wished, before he returned home, to pay you a visit. I have observed in him a truly good disposition. You will say a few words to confirm him in the fear of the Lord, and in reverence for his teaching. — Adieu. May the Lord direct you by his counsel, and bless you in a recommendation of so much mo- ment. Salute respectfully all the brethren. — Yours,
John Calvin.
Forgive me for not having, some time ago, sent to you this letter by our treasurer — I mean Bucer's, for, as the messenger brought it open, I thought that it had been already read by you and Farel. Afterwards, he reminded me that not even Toussain had read it. You will therefore send it to Farel, as soon as you shall have an opportunity. I am surprised that Bucer was not aroused by the murderous outrage so greatly to be execrated, which the Emperor perpetrated when he struck off the heads of the principal senators at Ratisbon. I am also sur- prised that he has made no mention of the incendiaries, but I set it down partly to his engagements. The other matter he has perhaps passed over on purpose, because he did not dare to commit everything to writing in these dubious times. [^Lat. orig. autogr. — Library of Geneva. Vol. 106.]
68 viRET. [1546.
CLXXI.— To YiEET.
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 im- pulse 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. 106.1
CLXXII.— To YiRET.'
Breaking oflF of the match treated of in the preceding letters.
Geneva, 25th July 1546.
What I wrote to you, by the treasurer, regarding the settle- ment 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 com- mission. 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 ground that something different had been promised him. I said that no promise to that effect had been made with our knowledge ; and, moreover, that I had carefully enjoined Peter Ursier not to cajole them by
' The project of marriage, developed in the two preceding letters, not having been realized, Viret turned his attention in another direction ; and a passage in his will, preserved in the Archives of Geneva, informs us that he espoused, in his second mar- riage, Elizabeth Laharpe, daughter of a French refugee of Lausanne. This marriage was celebrated in October or November 1546, and the nuptial benediction was pro- nounced by Calvin himself, who, in a subsequent letter, (of the 3d December,) makes allusion to the journey which he had accomplished, in order to be present at the nup- tials of his friend.
1546.] viRET, 69
sucli promises. I pointed out how absurd it would be if we were to leave our churches to follow whither our wives called us ; that a marriage consummated under such a condition would be an unhappy, because an unholy, alliance, that would not pass without punishment falling on both you and the girl; finally, that you would never be prevailed upon to afford the first example of so disgraceful a practice, and, therefore, that it was in vain to make the request. I added, that Lausanne was not so far distant from this as to prevent his daughter from being with him as often as might be necessary ; that it would, likewise, be more satisfactory to have daily to congratulate his absent daughter than constantly to see and hear her weeping and bewailing the cruelties of her husband, which he observed was the case with so many. He requested space for delibera- tion, and, at the end of three days, he replied, that he was un- willing to send his only daughter from home. I felt greatly indignant at being so deluded by the folly of those in whom I trusted. I restrained myself, however, and dissembled my anger. But I do not need to offer any more lengthened excuse to you, as I am free from all blame. We may accordingly turn to some other quarter. Christopher spoke to me of a certain widow, who, he asserts, pleases him admirably. If such is the case, I am at rest, and leave it. But if not, indi- cate your mind. We shall very shortly, also, have a messen- ger from Strasbourg. — Adieu, brother, and most sincere friend. Salute all the co-presbyters very affectionately. May the Lord preserve you all safe, and direct you by his Holy Spirit even to the end. — Yours,
John Calvin.
Excuse me for not writing by the female servant of Petro- nilla, for I was not then fully aware of the state of the case ; in other words, there was still a gleam of hope. [Lat. orig. aviogr. — Library of Geneva. Vol. 106.]
70 FAREL. [1546.
CLXXIII.— To Farel.
Violence of the family of Amy Perrin — declamations of the wife of Froment against the ministers of Geneva. '
Geneva, [1»* 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.' For this person coDveyed 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 upon him ; only, I observe a mean, that I may keep in mind the place I hold ; nor is this done on my own account, but because the man, being accustomed to adulation, would abuse my modesty, to the derision of Christ. I therefore despair of him, unless God apply a remedy. His wife is an unnatural fury. The widow N. is so shamelessly wanton, that you would say she is quite youthful. Then, having an evil conscience, she is excited by every word that is spoken before the congregation, and discharges upon us at home the venom she harbours. She has manifested towards you, however, mar- vellous good-will ; for she took to her house your two nephews, ■when they were dangerously ill, and treats them as her own sons. This kind office deserves a liberal meed of thanks, which you will not omit to convey to her, whenever a messenger shall present himself. She is so opposed to all of us, that I believe Csesar* himself is not more of an enemy ; and yet, I confess I do not know what cause is to be assigned for this, unless that she shamelessly undertakes the defence of all her crimes.
' At the request of Calvin, Farel had written a letter to Amy Perrin, in order to calm his resentment, and lead him back to the good path. The message of Farel, like that of Calvin himself, was without effect, and the quarrel between the Reformer and his old friend, now his adversary, became daily more confirmed and violent.
" A term frequently employed by Calvin to designate Perrin, with the adjunct of a derisive epithet, — Caaar our comedian.
^546.] FAREL. 71
I am now going to give you a humorous story. The wife of Froment ' lately came to this place. She declaimed through all the shops, and at almost all the cross-roade, against long gar- ments. When she knew that I was aware of it, she excused herself by alleging that she had said with a smile, that we were either unbecomingly clothed, to the great detriment of the Church, or that you taught what was erroneous, when you said that false prophets could be distinguished by their long vest- ments. When I was rebutting so stale a calumny, she began to ascribe even to the Holy Spirit what she had directed against us. What is the meaning, said she, of that passage of the Gospel, " They will come to you in long garments?" I replied, that I did not know where that sentence was to be found, unless, per- haps, it might occur in the gospel of the Manichasans ; for the passage of Luke xx. 45, is as follows: "Beware of the Scribes, who desire to walk in long robes," but not, "They will come to you," &c., which she had interpolated from Matthew vii. [15.] Feeling that she was closely pressed, she complained of our tyranny, because there was not a general license of prating about everything. I dealt with the woman as I should have done. She immediately proceeded to the widow of Michael, who gave her a hospitable reception, sharing with her not only her table, but her bed, because she maligned the ministers. I leave these wounds untouched, because they appear to me in- curable until the Lord apply his hand. We are to celebrate the Supper on the next Lord's-day. You may thus form a judgment of the straits by which I am encompassed. Would that it could be celebrated without me, even on condition that I should creep to you on my hands ! I wish that the verse of Terence would occur to your brothers, " To lose in time is to make gain." I have admonished them, but they do not make the haste I wished. They may bear, however, for a short time the delay that has taken place, although it is disagreeable to us. — Adieu, brother and most sincere friend. Salute respect- fully, in ray name, all the brethren, your family, and the godly
' See note 1, vol. i. p. 343. It appears, from this passage, that Fremont was not at that time settled in Geneva. He was called thither a short time afterwards to assist Francis Bonivard in digesting the Chronicles of the city.
72 TAREL. [1546.
citizens. May the Lord preserve you, and always direct you by his Spirit 1 Amen.
[Calvin's Lat. Corre$p. — Opera, vol. ix. p. 38.]
CLXXIV.— To Farel.
Calvin's indisposition — literary labours — apparent reconciliation with Perrin and his
family.
Geneva, 2d October 1546.
Not to beguile you by a vain bope, 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 jolt- ing 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 what druggist you blame, unless, as I conjecture, you hint at Francis. What Textor may now think I do not know, except that he was too stringent in his prescriptions. For by involving himself in the lawsuits of his father, he has woven, in his native place, a Penelope's web that will have no end. Meanwhile, you see him complaining that he was deprived of my advice. But this peevishness of the good man must somehow or other be tolerated by us. As you exhort me to write, I wish I had more leisure occasionally, and more robust health. I have now, however, set myself in earnest to the Epistle to the Galatians,' I am not free in the matter of publication, as far at least as the Epistles of Paul are concerned. You once heard from me when I was at Strasbourg, that Wen- delinlaid me under obligations by services of such a nature, that I should be constrained to charge myself with ingratitude unless
' The Commentaries on the four Epistles of St. Paul to the Galatians, the Epbcsians, the Philippians, and the Colossians, were not published until 1548, by the bookseller Girard, of Geneva. Is there a previous edition of the Commentary on the Galatians ? We are not aware of any.
1546.] FAREL. 73
I offered this work to him. For at the time of my greatest straits, he expended on my behalf above forty golden pieces, and he was not less prompt in his assistance in taking charge of my domestic afiairs, than if I had hired him for the express purpose of superintending them. I am, therefore, now not at liberty to refuse him the Epistles. If I should write anything else, it will rather be published here, and yet Des Gallars could find no one to undertake to bring out two short treatises he had composed. Before, however, I subject my writings to any risk, I shall retain a copy. I left off for a time a short treatise, De Scandalis,^ that I had begun, because the style did not flow so freely as I wished, nor have I a mind to resume it, until I shall have completed the Commentary on the Epistle to the Gala- tians. I had lately some conversation with our friend Perrin. If he perform what he promised, matters will not be at the very worst.'^ Penthesilasa, while in her outward deportment she affects a wonderful friendship, rages within doors in a terrible manner. I observe that you have written to her. I shall call for her on the earliest opportunity. I shall then discover what effect your letter has had. — Adieu, brother and most sincere friend. May the Lord be ever present with you, always protect you, and render your labours prosperous! I wrote to the mini- sters of Berne. If you desire to know the contents of the letter Yiret, I think, retained a copy. My wife reverently salutes you, as also Des Gallars, Feron, my brother, (for since I received yours I have not seen the others.) The best greeting to the brethren and friends, and to your whole family. — Yours,
John Calvin.
I had no talk with Perrin about your letter. I was unwilling to touch that sore, until it should have been somewhat molli-
' This, one of the most remarkable of the works of Calvin, appeared only in 1550.
"This apparent reconciliation was without satisfactory result. Perrin could not tolerate, nor Calvin sacrifice, the right of censure vested in the Consistory, and which the excesses of the Lihertina daily rendered more necessary. " Complaints to the Council by M. Calvin regarding the dissoluteness of the youth, there being nothing more common in the city than acts of debauchery and licentiousness." — Registers nf Cowtcil, 11th October 1546. 10
74 MONSIEUR DE PALAIS. [1546.
fied by the lapse of time. If there is any news, provided it be certain, let us immediately know, I pray you. [Laf. orig. autogr. — Library of Geneva. Yol. 106.]
CLXXY. — To Monsieur de Falais.
Recurrence to the matrimonial projects of Viret — explanations on various subjects.
From Geneva, this ith of October 1546.
MoxsEiGNEUR, — 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 sud- den 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 was with great pain I could open my mouth. This morning I thought that he would be gone away, until at the end of the sermon, he told me that he would wait a quarter of an hour to oblige me ; wherefore, I must beg of you to excuse the brevity.
As to the affair of the individual for whose sake I have made the request, he has replied to me, thanking you very humbly for the kind affection you have shewn him ; that he would desire above all things to have communication with the party, fearing lest, from the want of a mutual understanding, they might not assort so well together in future. Besides, while these troubles last, it appeared to him that the journey could not be well undertaken, and I am much of that opinion ; for thereby there would be some danger of a long protraction of the affair, and this is by no means your intention, which I find very reasonable. As for the rest, there is no sort of hindrance arising from health ; but I find this to be an annoyance, that a matter, uncertain at any rate, should be kept for so long in suspense, although I do not find fault with his request, considering the reasons which he has alleged to me for it, that it is necessary
1546.] MONSIEUR DE FALAIS. 75
that the wife he shall take may be informed beforehand of some domestic charges which he is obliged to bear. Besides, love requires previous acquaintance, and the household affairs never go on well without a private mutual understanding, and a settlement of the conditions required on both sides. The mischief is, the waiting for that length of time ; and besides, I do not see any great object to be gained by it. I pray God that, in any event, he would well order it.
About the book,' it strikes me that I have told you enough already of what occurred to me, and therefore I do not compre- hend wherefore you ask my opinion anew, unless it might be to shew it to him. Besides, he will take it better, methinks, if it may please you, to shew him the passage of my letter on that point, the more that I speak therein more freely, not know- ing the author. Nevertheless, if it appears to you that there is somewhat more to be said, when you shall please to inform me of it, I will follow your advice.
Furthermore, Antony Maillet has written to me, that he had spoken to Peter Telsen, and tells me that the twelve crowns which Master Yalerand has disbursed, are to be refunded to you, although I need not be in very much haste about it, but suit my own convenience. I know not whether he has done so by mistake, but if he has still twelve crowns to pay, Peter Telsen must have laid out twice as much as he ought ; for I have sent you twelve crowns by my brother, the which you have told me you had received. Notwithstanding, if Peter Telsen have failed to do so, I would not that you should be the loser, albeit I know not for what purpose he can have employed the money ; but as to that, it will be my business to settle with him. Before saying a word about it, I was desirous to know the truth. I pray you, then, that you may please let me know whether, besides the twelve crowns which my brother returned to you, there has a still further sum of like amount gone out of your purse. Seeing that they have roused so much indignation down there, I see not what hinders you to publish your Aiiology, and it seems to me very fit that you do so. Nevertheless, I say
' M. de Falaia had sent Calvin a theological work by a certain Denis de la Roche, requesting his opinion of it.
76 MADAME DE FALAIS. [1546.
what I think about it without prejudice. The rest remains still in the pen, for the bearer has not given me a long enough time. And thus, Monseigneur, after commending me humbly to your kind favour and that of Madame, I pray our good Lord to have you always in his keeping, vouchsafing you grace in suchwise ever to walk, that he may be ever more and more glorified in you. I render thanks to him for that he hath set you up again, but I beseech of him to increase you in strength daily, until you are completely restored. My wife presents her humble commendations.
Your servant, humble brother, and entire friend,
John Calvin.
[Fr. copy — Library of Geneva. Vol. 194.]
CLXXVI.— To Madame de Falais.
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 ne- glect. I believe that your intention in sending it to me, was in order to have my advice how to inform Monsieur of it.' Now, as he must be made aware of the news, I could have no hesitation in opening up somewhat of the business, whenever he shall be in a good humour, and then telling him all about it. Except when he is ailing, he is not a man that lets him- self be overcome by sadness, and who does not know how to make a profitable improvement of the grace which God vouch- safes him for his consolation.
■ Allusion to the death of one of the sisters of M. de Falais, which they had not ventured to communicate to him.
1546.] MONSIEUR DET FALAIS. 77
He has put me in mind that you were complaining lately of Monsieur enjoying himself all alone in the reading of my Com- mentary.' You request me also to have some thought of those who only understand French, that they also may partake, and you ask for my sermons. Well, if there had been a demand for putting them forth, I would indeed have set about it in good earnest ; but that will not be this year. However, if God bestow grace to finish the Epistle to the Galatians, which ought to be summary, I have the framework of something of a treatise which shall speak French as well as Latin, that may prove somewhat useful, as I hope.
After having affectionately commended me to your kind favour, and presented the humble salutations of my wife, I beseech our good Lord to have you in his safeguard, making you more and more serviceable for the advancement of his kingdom.
Your servant and humble brother,
John Calvin,
[Fr. orig. autogr. — Library of Geneva. Vol. 194.]
CLXXYII. — To Monsieur de Falais.
Congratulations on his convalescence — uncertainty of prospects in Germany — confi- dence in the all-powerful protection of God.
From Geneva, thia \^th 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 to make up for past time. We shall look for that, and for all else, as it shall please him of his infinite goodness to allot, having good ex-
' The Commentary on the First Epistle of Saint Paul to the Corinthians, dedicated to M. de Falaia.
78 MONSIEUR DE FALAIS. [1546
pectance that the rage which the Court of Malines has vented upon you will pass off in smoke.'
I believe that it will soon be time to sound a retreat for both camps.^ I pray God so to direct the whole that the upshot may prove for the advancement of his own honour. I am better pleased that he makes war upon that unhappy tyrant with his own hand, than otherwise. For if we were to attempt any- thing of importance, I should always fear the fatal consequences of the presumption. We have never yet heard what has be- come of that harebrained fellow, the Count de Buren,^ whether he has passed on with his army, or whether he has been driven back. Howsoever it may be, it is not the multitude nor the arm of flesh that can prevail.
Master Valerand is returning; you shall know better from him the whole state of your affairs. Howbeit, I see no other means, unless you yield somewhat on your side, until God opens up a better. You will know who this bearer is, and his purpose in going to you. Because I believed his determina- tion to be right, I have not desired to turn him back from it.
To conclude, Monseigneur, after my humble commendation to your kind favour, I shall pray our good Lord to have ever his hand stretched out to guide you by his grace.
Your servant, humble brother and entire friend,
John Calvin.
My wife also entreats to be always humbly commended to your kind favour.
\Fr. orig. antogr. — Library of Geneva. Vol. 194.]
' The confiscation of the property of M. de Falais had been pronounced by the Court of Malines. That decree had been submitted to the confirmation of the Emperor.
' The sentence which put the Elector of Saxony and the Landgrave of Hesse to the ban of the Empire, 20th July 1546, was the signal for war in Germany. The Imperial army, and that of the Protestant Princes, observed one another for several months, on the banks of the Danube, without the one being able to obtain any decisive advantage over the other. But the troops of Charles the Fifth were decimated by want and sick- ness while there was an overabundance in the camp of the confederates.
* Maximilian d'Egmont, Count de Buren, a valiant and adventurous captain. He brought a powerful reinforcement to Charles the Fifth from the Netherlands, and ho executed that difficult operation with the most happy success.
1546.] MONSIEUR DE FALAIS. 79
CLXXYIII.— To Monsieur de Falais.
Excuses for Viret — uses of sickness — various rumours concertiing the war in Ger- many— explanations on the subject of the Supper.
From Geneva, this \&th of November 1516.
MoNSElGNEUR, — 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 men- tioned to me the name of the author; and because he is some- what opinionative, you request me to let you know my mind about it, in order that you may tell him on his return the opinion you have formed. Your words are these, " The author is Denis de la Eoche, who has requested of me that I would send it you privately. In consequence of this I feel puzzled how to set about finding fault, for I fear he will suspect that the criticism comes from you, and he is a little proud, and withal tenacious of his own views. Inasmuch as you have known him longer than I, write me your advice, so that upon his return I may be able to tell him the judgment which I have come to, when he shall ask me for it."
You must hold me excused in this matter. I know not how to proceed therein, since I have already shortly stated to you my opinion in regard to it. If you ask me for a lengthened discussion, I could not do it so well as when it was fresh in my recollection ; and indeed I have doubtless forgotten part of what I formerly wrote. What made me doubtful as to your drift, was that it seemed to me you were asking me to do over again what I had already done. And even now I do not com- prehend wherefore you would have a new declaration of my opinion, unless you were dissatisfied with the first. It would be very difficult for me to discuss in detail the things which have escaped me. For I have retained but a confused idea of the general argument, and of some points here and there. As concerns the marriage in reference to which I have put you
80 MONSIEUR DE FALAIS. [1546.
in requisition/ I beseech you, Monseigneur, to "believe what I shall tell you, for I shall recount the pure truth without any dissimulation whatever. The reason which induced me to write you about it was, that a party had been proposed here who was no wise suitable for him. But on account of the forwardness of some of those who had meddled in the affair, we had very great difficulty in getting the proposal set aside. And so, to break the blow, it was my earnest desire to have found some one in another quarter ; for there would have been less envy and jealousy had he taken one from a distance, as we have already had ample experience in the murmurs which some have made when we would not follow their leading-string. I assure you, however, that he has not been making indirect application elsewhere. But without reference either to her whom you kindly named in your reply, nor yet to any other, I have thought it advisable, under the circumstances of the case, to recommend the man to you. Then you know the first letter loitered long upon the way, before we had any news from you, which was the occasion of my writing again, and that at his own instance, although I did not comprehend very clearly why. For in the meantime, from what I have since learnt, he had a proposition from another quarter. Nevertheless, after receiving tidings from you, I communicated with himself, and the result was such as I have told you, without feigned civility or double- dealing. Since then, I have understood that the proposal about a widow was still under consideration, although to this hour I know not how it stands. And so far was I from meddling, that knowing in this town of a widow as well endowed as I could have wished for myself if God had so far afflicted me as to have deprived me of my helpmate,^ and that there was a ne- cessity for my marrying again ; on considering the other pro- posals which were under consideration, I have not felt inclined to bring forward her name. And notwithstanding, I have no doubt whatever that it would prove an admirable match for him.
' For Peter Viret. See preceding letters to M. de Falais, pp. 63 and 74.
" Calvin lost his wife, Idelette de Bure, in the beginning of April 1549, and never married again. His Latin correspondence contains two beautiful and touching letters to Viret and to Farel (7th and 11th April) on that sad event. They will be found re- printed in this collection.
1546.] MONSIEUR DE FALAIS. 81
But all the more that I refrained from active friendly inter- ference, it was sufficient for me to commit him to God, and to let the stream find its own channel. You see how I have thanked you without hypocrisy, now that I have set before you the difficulties that I have had here. And I do not think that there was any want of honesty in the man for whom I spoke ; indeed I might venture to assure you of it. But purposes change in a few hours. Seeing the present position of matters, I did not like to communicate to him anything of what was contained in your letter. I shall not trouble you with long excuses ; and besides, it is well that the thing has not taken wind. Wherefore, if you think fit, consider the whole matter as if it had never been mooted. Meanwhile, your goodwill toward me must not be buried out of mind, nor toward the man who is principally concerned in the affair. For I assure you that he was truly grateful for your interference, and I know that he has it imprinted on his heart, although it was attended with no result.
With regard to the money which has been laid out on ac- count of our child, that you may not be further troubled about it, Antony Maillet will settle the amount. And now, please God, I shall do my duty, thanking you most affectionately that you have been pleased to have patience until the settlement could be made.
Since the Apology has not yet gone forth, it is very desirable to have the news which Master Valeran ' may bring along with him. And, indeed, over and above the circumstance which has befallen in your particular case, the general declaration which the man has made against the whole cause, well deserves that the style should be altered, and that some additions be interwoven. And seeing that God has allowed you to wait so long, he will so end all as to instruct you the more certainly.
Although I have indeed heard of a man having been seized at Berne for poisoning and fire-raising, nevertheless, I have so little correspondence in that quarter, that I have heard nothing of it but upon common report. On which account I did not care to say much to you about it. If it be really so as has been re-
• Valeran Poulain, of Lille, who was at a later period minister of the French Church at Frankfort 11
82 MONSIEUR DE FALAIS. [1546.
lated to you, I must acknowledge that it is a good thing that God is more concerned about my life than are my neighbours.
Although your weakness may be protracted, it is much that you go on steadily, though by slow degrees, in the way of amendment. And when I consider the complaint, I feel that there is still greater reason to be well content. Notwithstand- ing, we shall not give over praying to God that it would please him to confirm you entirely, with thanksgiving that he has brought you back from the brink of the grave. Besides, I hope, from present appearances, that he is minded yet to make use of you in health, since he has employed you in sickness. For although laid powerless upon a bed, we are by no means useless to him, if we testify our obedience by resigning our- selves to his good pleasure, — if we give proof of our faith by resisting temptation, — if we take advantage of the consolation •which he gives us in order to overcome the troubles of the flesh. It is in sickness, especially when prolonged, that patience is most needful ; but most of all in death. Nevertheless, as I have said, I confide in this good God, that after having exer- cised you by sickness he will still employ your health to some good purpose. Meanwhile, we must beseech him that he would uphold us in steadfast courage, never permitting us to fall away because of lengthened on-waiting.
Howsoever doubtful the retreat of Eenard^ may be, it is nevertheless no small matter, that instead of reaching the point aimed at, which would have been his great advantage, he has made a crablike movement backwards. And from what we have heard, he has left behind the marks of the persecution of God's hand. I am much better pleased that God should cut off his finger than we his arm. Not that that is not still God's work, which he performs by us, but I always fear so much the effect of glory, that I rejoice the more when it is plainly the doing of the Lord. And the unhappy man has likewise still greater occasion to feel uneasiness at heart. Whatever may come of it, I think that I have only spoken the truth, after the news of his departure, in writing what follows : — Whither is he going? Whither is he gone ? What will become of that
' The Emperor Charles V. See note 2, p. 78.
1546.] MONSIEUR DE FALAIS. 83
wicked man? — By thus driving him away, God has at least lowered his pride.
A report is afloat, which troubles and plagues more than it astonishes me. It is that Maurice has entered into an under- standing with him to ruin his own cousin and his father-in-law, and in the end to ruin himself;' for Satan must assuredly have got entire possession of him. We shall await, however, whatso- ever shall please God, prepared to accept all that shall please him.
Concerning the advice which you require of me, whether it were expedient to refresh the memory of the ambassadors: before I had an opportunity of writingto you, the time to do so had gone by ; I therefore rather held my peace, not so much from forget- fulness as from this consideration: Ne pluvia post messem.
There is one point, however, that I think I have forgotten, namely, the complaint they make, that it appears I would shut up the body in the bread alone. I know not where they have dreamed that dream. In several treatises I speak of that matter, but chiefly in the Institution^ in the Catechism, in the Commentary on Corinthians, and in the manner of administra- tion of the Lord's Supper. In the Supplication I have only touched upon it very lightly. Besides that, I have written a little book upon the subject, in which I believe a reader of sound judgment will meet with nothing to find fault with. But here is their mistake: many think that we make no distinction be- tween the sign and the truth signified, unless we separate them entirely, to make God like a mountebank, who exhibits delusive representations by sleight of hand. It is our duty, however, to proclaim, that this comes by the craft of Satan, who only seeks to bewilder the understanding, that he may render our labours of no avail. Let us therefore pray to God that he would bestow increase by his grace, so that our labour may not be in vain. Such examples ought to incite us thereto, and likewise to ad- monish us, not to think that we have done some great thing by merely having written.
' Maurice of Saxony, cousin of the Elector John Frederic, and son-in-law of the Landgrave of Hesse, unworthily betraying the cause of the Confederates, concluded a secret treaty with the emperor, to whom he took the oath of fidelity, and who guaran- tied to bim in return the spoils of bis father-in-law.
84 MONSIEUR DE FALAIS. [1546
Monsieur, having presented the humble commendations of myself, as well as of my wife, to your kind favour, and also that of Madame, I pray our good Lord, that it would please him ever to preserve you in his holy protection, strengthening you in all might by his Spirit, making his glory to shine forth in you ever more and more.
I beg to be excused for faults, for I have not been able to revise the present letter, being engrossed by headache with which I have been seized. Our friend and brother, Des Gallars,' also humbly commends himself to you, and sends you a distich which he has composed upon Renard. We greatly desire to have some news. If the war did not give holiday to the print- ing-presses, I would have sent Yendelin the Oalatians ; but since the Corinthians lie quiet in his desk, there is no need for my being in any hurry.
\Fr. orig. autogr. — Library of Geneva. Yol. 194.]
CLXXIX. — To Monsieur de Falais.
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,'^ 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 argument, if I had wished to console you. And, indeed, you have much occasion for grati- tude on account of the grace which God has vouchsafed to her, and to you also. For seeing that her husband had waxed so
' Nicolas des Gallars, of Paris, (M. de Saules,) the friend and secretary of Calvin, and one of the most distinguished ministers of Geneva. He was sent as pastor to the Church at Paris in 1557, reappointed in 1560 to the French Church of London, assisted the following year at the conference at Poissy, was named minister of the Church of Orleans, and became, in 1571, preacher to the Queen of Navarre. We have several of his works mentioned by Senebier, Hist. Litt., torn i. p. 341.
" Helene de Falais. She had married Adrien de L'Isle, Seigneur de Trenoy.
1546.] MADAME DE FALAIS. 85
cold, the good lady would have been in an unhappy captivity had she remained longer in the world, and would only have languished her life away. On your part, you would not have had it in your power to lend her a helping hand, nor to solace her sorrows ; and so you never could have thought of her with- out regret and vexation. God, therefore, has had pity upon you and her, in thus providing, and above all, in preventing the dangers into which she might have fallen in a long career, by reason of the frailty which is in us. And we have yet a better ground of further consolation, that it will not be long ere we find ourselves together again. Meanwhile, let us think of pre- paring ourselves to follow her, for the time will soon come. But
, I like much better to congratulate you, seeing that our Lord has already put these things in your heart, than to labour in recall- ing them to your memory. The other news which Camus has told me about you, has also cheered me to await the time when God will bring to pass what he has put into so good a train.
Monseigneur, after humble commendations to your kind favour, and having presented the humble remembrances of my wife, I pray our good Lord to have you ever in his safeguard, to strengthen you in body and in spirit, so as always to make
you more abound in his service.
Your humble servant and bounden friend,
John Calvin,
I assure you that you make me desire the arrival of the spring-time more than I would otherwise have done. Our brother Des Gallars commends himself also very humbly to your kind favour.
[Fi: orig. autogr. — Library of Geiieva. Vol. 194.]
CLXXX. — To Madame de Falais.
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
86 viRET. [1546.
one Avord on the subject, knowing beforehand from yourself that he has no need of long consolation, seeing that God, with- out 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 dis- charge myself of it, when God shall have vouchsafed me the means wherewith to do so. But I am astonished that you should even hint at the reward which my said Lord intends for me, as if I were looking to that, and had not other considera- tions in the discharge of my duty to him. The love and re- verence which I may well bear toward him in our Lord are so strong, that I am very sorry that I cannot devote myself more to his and your service, to shew what is in my heart. Howbeit, I beseech you not to take amiss what I have now said, for I have had no other feeling than the fear that you may not place such reliance upon me as I desire. Besides, I do not mean to make any complaint which deserves a reply ; for it is quite enough for me that you have neither entertained a doubt nor a suspicion which has induced you to mention it.
Now therefore I shall make an end, after having humbly- commended me to your kind favour. I pray our good Lord to have you always in his holy protection, guiding and govern- ing you after his own good will, so as to glorify his holy name in you.
Your humble servant and good brother for ever,
John Calvin.
[Fr. orig. autogi: — Library of Geneva. Vol. 194.]
CLXXXI.— To ViRET.
Statement of the expense of a visit to Lausanne, on the occasion of Viret's marriage — eeclesiastical difficulties at Berne.
Geneva, M Dec 1546.
Two letters of Bucer were delivered to me after a short in- terval. 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
1546.] viRET. 87
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.' I have enjoined Peter Textor to pay to you sixteen crowns; for although I had ten with me when I came to the marriage, it escaped my memory. But here is a greater lapse of memory; when I had found them laid aside in my desk, I stood still for some time, not knowing whether I had ever seen them before. Raymond came upon me, who reminded me of the fact, that he had given them to me by order of Antony Maillet. You will therefore add this sum to the former. In the other six [crowns,] I am afraid that I have made a mis- take; for they may possibly belong to my brother. For as a teacher of Orleans was in his debt, he arranged that payment should be made by the son of Bruno. He had lately received five [crowns.] You will therefore retain these until I shall have learned with certainty from Saint Andr^, whether they ought to be given to you or to my brother.
Sulzer lately wrote to me that matters had reached an ex- tremity.^ lie implores our aid. I consulted with the brethren. As we could discover no plan of procedure in circumstances so perplexed, and almost desperate, I repaired to Nyon. I became aware that they had committed much more grievous errors than the letters contain any mention of. They are not, in my opinion, fighting for a cause that is good in every respect. All see that their proceedings are preposterous; and yet when we also see that everything is going to ruin, with what conscience shall we be silent? I asked Nicolas,^ whether he thought that a letter from us would be of any service? He gave a
' This diversion, dictated to the King of France by sound politics, was not effected, and Francis I. remained a peaceable spectator of events, whoso necessary tendency wns to secure, by the defeat of the Protestant party in Germany, the ascendency of Charles V. in Europe.
" The ministers of Berne were divided by incessant disputes on the subject of the Supper. Sulzer and certain of his colleagues inclined to the Lutheran view, which Erasme Ritter combated ; and by an abuse of power, that was not uncommon at that period, the Seigneury of Berne claimed to determine by itself the sense of the con- troverted dogma, the settlement of which ought to have been remitted to a Synod. — Ruchat, torn. v. pp. 225, 226.
' The senator, Nicolas de Zerkinden, friend of Calvin and prefect of Nyon,
88 MONSIEUR DE FALAIS. [1546.
trembling aud hesitating consent to our writing. Should a messenger present himself in good time, I wish that you also would intimate your opinion; thereafter consider whether it be not time to press for obtaining a Synod.
Adieu, brother, and most sincere friend, along with your wife, whom you will respectfully salute in the name of all ours, as well as James and the rest. — Yours,
John Calvin.
[Lat. orig. autogr. — Library of Geneva. Yol. 106.]
CLXXXII. — To Monsieur de Falais.
Military movements in Switzerland — policy of the Cantons in reference to the Emperor.
Fkom 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.' 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 holds them as it were tied by the leg. For it is now about a year since all the cantons agreed that none should leave the country to engage in war, without the consent of the rest. Now there is fear that the Papists may be urged to invade the country while it is depo- pulated, under colour of breach of treaty ; which if the King of France had only thrown in a word, would have happened a long time ago, — namely, had he called the Papists to enter his
' The Roman Catholic and Reformed Cantons, solicited, the former by the emperor, the latter by the Protestant princes, to take part in the struggles of which Germany was the theatre, had both observed a strict neutrality. But the Seigneury of Berne having received information that military movements were taking place in Franche- Comte, then under the rule of the Spaniards, summoned ten thousand men to arms, and occupied the passes of the Jura. That measure, which arose out of the pressuro of circumstances, would perhaps have brought about a division among the confederates, aud serious complications from without, if the treachery of the Elector Maurice had not hastened on the course of events in Germany. — John de Miiller, Mist, de la Con- fidiration Suisne, continuation of M. Vulliemin, torn. xi. p. 292.
1546.] MONSIEUR DE FALAIS. 89
service, which ours would have readily agreed to do. Thus would the one side have spoken German to Charles, the others Italian or Picard.
I fear indeed that there must be a want of good management as well in that as in other things. Thereby are we so much the more admonished to pray God that he by his infinite good- ness would be pleased to supply so many shortcomings. True it is, that the ignorant are apt to judge foolishly. But however that may be, every one is amazed that they are so long
,' without putting forth an effort. For it looks as if God were holding out the hand to us, as much as to say — enter in. And in letting the time slip by, we only invigorate kirn who is already almost desperate. Let us pray, therefore, and seeing that it pleases God to make trial of our patience for our good, let us be content with what he sends us, never growing weary of serving him, on any account whatsoever.
There has been murmuring of late on account of some ap- pointment. They would indeed need wondrous masons to complete the building. But I fear that our people, or some of them at least, may let themselves be so far led away as to en- tertain the proposals, which would be to replace the enemy, not only in the exercise of his former tyrannous sway, but even of that to which he has always aspired. Yet, inasmuch as I feel assured that it will not so happen unless God shall be alto- gether exasperated against us, I trust that he will avert so great a danger. For I have no doubt that he looks rather upon his own work in us, than upon our sins and shortcom- ings, that he may have pity on us.
And now, Monseigneur, having humbly commended me to your good favour, and that of Madame ; having also presented the commendations of my wife, and of our neighbours, I pray God of his goodness to keep you always in his protection, and to make you feel more and more the joy of his help.
Your servant and humble brother and ever bounden friend,
John Calvin.
[Fr. orig. autogr. — Library of Geneva. Vol. 194.] ' A word effaced in the original.
12
90 • MADAME DE BUDE. [1546.
CLXXXIIL— To Madame de Bude.^
Calvin exhorts this lady to leave France, and retire with her family to Geneva.
This 20th .... 1546.'
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 deter- mination upon the point on which you are still somewhat doubtful ; that is, as to your retiring hitherward that you may serve God in peace of conscience. Were it possible for you to discharge your duty where you are, I would by no means advise you to stir. But I am well aware in what captivity you are held. If God had given you strength and constancy to prepare for death, and not to flinch for any fear of the danger wherein you are, there would be nothing better than to keep that grace in exercise. But if you feel that the weakness of the flesh gets the mastery, and hinders you from doing your duty, seeing that
' The original letter is without address. But it is generally believed that it was addressed by Calvin to the widow of the celebrated William Bude, great-grandson of the secretary to King Charles V., and one of the most learned personages of the period of the revival of letters. William Bude having declared in his will that he wished to be buried without ceremony, this circumstance led to the supposition that he had died in the faith of the Reformed. His widow not being able to make free profession of her faith at Paris, was about to settle at Geneva, on the solicitation of Calvin, (June 1549.) She was accompanied by her daughter and three of her sons, Louis, Francis, and John de Bude, who held a distinguished rank in the republic. The best known of the three brothers is John de Bude, Sieur de Verace, the particular friend of Calvin and of Theo- dore de Beze. He was received an inhabitant of Geneva the 27th June 1549, burgess the 2d May 1555, member of both Councils in 1559, fulfilled several important mis- sions to the Protestant princes of Germany, and died in 1589, after having rendered distinguished services to his new country, and thereby added fresh lustre to his family, whose descendants still live at Geneva. — Galiffe, Notices Ginialogiques des Famillea Genevoises, tom. iii. p. 83, et aeq.
" Oh the back, in another handwriting,—" Of 46. I think that this letter must be to Madame Bude."
1546.] MADAME DE BUDE. 91
your conscience must needs be troubled and in continual tor- ment, the only way is to seek a suitable remedy. For it is no slight perplexity, yea, even agony, to feel ourselves blamable in a matter of so great moment ; yea, and that the evil con- tinues to such an extent, that we can make no end of offend- ing God. Although many deceive themselves in this matter, making themselves believe that it is but a trifling fault to defile themselves with superstitions which are repugnant to the word of God, and derogate from his honour, I reckon that his hon- our, to whom we owe everything, is so precious to you, that it is felt to be a subject of intolerable regret to you to offend against it daily, as you are constrained to do at present. I do not doubt, therefore, but that you have a special desire to escape out of such wretchedness, and that until you do, you cannot but be in very great anxiety and sadness. Consider, now, whether this is not an unhappy condition, thus to linger for ever. I know, indeed, that there are many who reply to us, that we here are no more angels than themselves, and that we offend God even as they do ; which is true. But as the proverb says, " Sickness upon sickness is not health." If, then, we come far short in other respects, what need is there to increase our condemnation by adding to the rest this sin which is so grievous ; to wit, that of not giving glory to the Son of God, who became as nothing for our salvation ?
Besides, after you have done your best by dissimulation, to keep clear of the perils which surround you, you are not a whit better ; for the wicked are very sharp-sighted, and you will never content them but by an entire renunciation of God; wherefore, you have no rest for the body any more than for the soul. And after declension from God, in order to comply with the world, you have derived no benefit from it, except that you languish as in a trance. You will ask me if, being come hither, you shall always have assured repose. I confess that you will not ; for while we are in this world, it is fitting that we should be like birds upon the branch. So it has pleased God, and it is good for us. But since this little corner is vouchsafed to you, where you may finish the remainder of your life in his service, if he so please, or profit more and more, and be cou-
92 MADAME DE BUDE. [1546.
firmed in his word, in order that you may be more ready to endure persecutions, if it shall so please him, it is not right that you refuse it. We have always to take care lest we be the cause of our own misfortune, and draw it down upon ourselves by not accepting the means of escape which God presents to us. I know that it is a hard thing to leave the country of our birth, most of all to a woman like yourself, of rank, and ad- vanced in life. But you ought to overcome such difficulties by higher considerations ; such as, that we should prefer to our own country every region where God is purely worshipped ; that we should not desire any better repose for our old age than to abide in his Church, his dwelling-place and the place of his rest ; that we should prefer to be contemptible in the place where his name may be glorified by us, to being honour- able in the sight of men, while we defraud him of the honour which belongs to him.
Concerning the doubts which may come into your mind, it would be too tedious to reply to them all. But you have always this as a settled point, that we must refer our many anxieties to the Providence of God, trusting that he will provide an outlet in cases where we see none. And in fact it is undoubted, that if we seek him we shall find him. That is to say, he will be with us to guide our steps, and to have a care of our affairs, to order them well for us. True it is, that we shall not cease to be subject to many troubles and annoyances ; but let us pray him that, having been strengthened by his word, we may have wherewithal to overcome them. And assuredly you pos- sess many helps, which deprive you of the excuse which many others have. If it shall please God to lead you hither, you will not come so bereft of property as to have nothing to live upon, while there are many poor people who have only burdens with- out temporal provision. How many Christian women are there who are held captive by their children ! while our Lord has given you this advantage, that you have children who not only are ready to aid in your deliverance from captivity, but also exhort you thereto. You have the liberty which many wish for, of which you ought to avail yourself, that you ma}'' all the more freely engage in the service of God. Among the other
1546.] MADAME DE BUDE. 93
hindrances that it appears you have, your daughter nnay be one, inasmuch as she is still unmarried. But instead of reckoning that to be a hindrance, it ought rather to serve as a spur the more readily to decide you. I understand that you love her not merely with the common love of mothers, but with a peculiar affection. I beseech you, then, to consider well whether it would be better for her to be there tied down in marriage, to live in perpetual bondage, or to be brought by you to a place where she may be free to live as a Christian with her husband ; for you must trust that God will find out for her a worthy person, who will be a comfort to you as well as to herself.' There is one thing of which it is right that you should be made aware, in order that nothing may alarm you as new and unforeseen. It is this, that Satan will stir up many