Recommendation of M. Engelbert, probably to a preaching post.
The original is at the Riga City Library. Printed by De Wette, vol. V, p. 302 and in the Erlangen edition, vol. 55, p. 291.
To the honorable, prudent gentlemen, Mayor and Rathmanne of the city of Riga in Liefland, my favorable good friends.
G. u. F. Honorable, prudent, dear gentlemen! Magister Engelbertus has asked me for a testimonial upon notification of your writing. Accordingly, as far as I have seen in his writing, he is first of all well reported to the pure Christian doctrine.
Letters from the year 1540. No. 2702. 2703. 2704.
He is also hostile to all sects, so that I consider him blameless and wholesome in this respect. Secondly, he is otherwise also known to be pious and honest. Third, he is also learned enough in the languages. But how he is able to practice preaching and teaching orally, I do not know, because I have not heard him. Also take care that you yourselves know better such things 1) than he who practiced with you for some time, as he reported. Command the same Mag. Engelberten in your favor and friendly will. Hiemit GOtt befohlen, Amen. Thursday after Bartholomew [26 Aug.] 1540.
Martinus LutheR, D.
No. 2703.