Hausmann reports on his recovery, thanks Luther for his New Year's gift, sends the Emperor's letter to the Pope, which is to be kept secret, concerning the appointment of a council, wishes Luther's wife a happy delivery etc.
From the original at Dessau in Burkhardt, p. 211.
1) Johann Kos, also called Coser and Cosus, from Römhild.
Letters from the year 1533. no. 1952. 1953.
Grace and peace in Jesus Christ, who was born and circumcised for us, my venerable Father Martin! I, too, have not been able to write, since I have become dull due to the illness that has weighed down my head, but I have resumed preaching, even though I have not been completely restored, irritated by the people's demands, and in the hope that my stomach will get better. For I feel great relief from the medicine of Doctor Augustin; may the Lord Jesus prosper to the remedies applied. I have certainly obeyed the Doctor in all things, the whole prescribed prescription, and I would not have regained health in any way except by the medicine taken, so much were the powers of the stomach exhausted, I know not by what intemperance; perhaps the sudden change of food and the difference of drink gave some occasion, but it was the will of the Lord, who pleased to kill the body thus, and to grind it to excess, that I might learn to 1) watch daily, and expect the Lord when he comes to the wedding. For no one can understand the power of the word of the cross, unless he has been so afflicted and afflicted. It is through this affliction that one attains to patience.
So that I am not ungrateful for the gift I have received for the new year, venerable father, I am sending the letter of the imperial majesty, Carl V, to the pope, concerning the meeting of a council, which Doctor Türk, the chancellor of the bishop of Magdeburg, has communicated to my princes, but with this condition that the letter should not be published, not without cause. Due to weakness of the main I could neither read nor improve it. You will forgive the writer if he should have erred somewhere. You will keep this copy with you, but it would also like to be shown to the highly famous gentlemen, namely Philip, Doctor Jonas and Pommer and perhaps other faithful people, also Cruciger. Our princes fear danger. But in fact, you know, the princes have not yet seen the wise man, Sirach. I, however, am very inflamed with love to read the discussion about the German situation. The news has frightened many, venerable Father. Greet all the aforementioned highly famous men in the Lord, and in Christ be well with your pregnant wife, whom I wish the happiest possible birth through the blessing of Christ, amen. I
1) Instead of distam we have assumed discam.
I will not stop praying for her without ceasing. You will greet your Catharina. You will inform the excellent Doctor Augustin of my state of health with Christian greetings. I could not answer Hieronymus Weiler now; the godly man will not be annoyed. Do not let it trouble you to greet all your acquaintances. Your letters will be very pleasant to the lords, but do not hesitate to take your time; nothing will be more pleasant and dearer to the provost. He will become more fiery to resist Duke George and all adversaries. The princes send you their most respectful and friendly greetings. From Dessau, on the day before the Feast of the Appearance of God (Theophaniae) [Jan. 5] 1533.
Venerable Father,
Your student Nicolaus Hausmann.
No. 1953.