Request for a scholarship for Matthäus Roloff from Mecklenburg, who is studying in Wittenberg.
The original is in the archives at Schwerin. Printed by Seidemann, Lutherbriefe, p. 47 f.
To the illustrious, highborn prince and lord, Lord Heinrich, Duke of Mecklenburg 2c., and of the lands [Rostock and Stargard] lord, my gracious lord.
G. and F. in Christ. Sublime, highborn Prince, gracious Lord! Matthäus Roloff, E. F. G. country child from Quassow 1) has asked me to write to E. F. G. that after he has been in the studio here for some time and has started commendably and has increased well, that there is every hope that he will become a skilful, useful man to be used in E. F. G.'s lands, E. F. G. wanted him to be used for some time. F. G.'s lands, E. F. G. would graciously keep him for several years with a settled fief or stipend. For without this, he can no longer support himself here, and would therefore have to leave the studio out of poverty, which would be a pity, because he has come so far. Thus, E. F. G. himself knows how highly necessary it is that people be educated who are suitable for church offices, for which kings and princes have done so much in the past and donated so much. Is therefore my humble request that E. F. G. would have the aforementioned Matthew in gracious command, for he has inherited, in E. F. G. lands (where he has been born), the church. F. G. lands (where he is needed) to serve again. The F. F. G. will know how to show themselves Christian and gracious in this. Herewith GOtte commanded, Amen. Saturday after St. Martin's Day [Nov. 18] 1536.
E. F. G. williger Martinus Luther, D.
1) Gr. and kl. Quassow are located in the Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg - Strelitz, between the cities of Wesenberg and Strelitz.
Letters from the year 1536. No. 2314. 2315. 2316.
No. 2314.