Luther promises to take care of the two students sent from Prussia and asks for better care for D. Basilius Axt.
From Faber's collection of letters, p.38, in De Wette, vol. V, p. 402 f. and in the Erlangen edition, vol. 55, p. 334.
G. u. F. and my poor pater noster. Sublime, highborn prince, gracious lord! E. F. G. have sent two from Prussia here to the studio, ordered me to see that they may be fruitful here and increase, which I, and where they otherwise desire my advice, will gladly do, as much as I can.
Also, my lord, know E. F. G., how Doctor Basilius, Medicus, has now served many years in Prussia, and is gifted with children, and is now in misery and wretchedness due to the death of his wife, that he is in need of help and comfort, but still has nothing of his own, but has allowed himself to be satisfied with his wages like a day laborer: it is therefore my humble request that E. F. G. want to provide him with something of his own for his poor children, if he is to remain in Prussia, although I would like him to be out again for the sake of the children, as I have advised him, mostly for the sake of the children, who now also need a roof and a hearth, as E. F. G. himself can graciously provide. Thus (I hope) F.F.G. have found and experienced an irenic, diligent servant in him. The F. F. G. wished to show mercy to him. Hiemit GOtt befohlen, Amen. Tuesday after Michaelmas [Oct. 4] 1541.
The New Newspaper is here much and evil of the Turk, the E. F. G. more [than] I know without doubt. It seems as if there is vain treason in the highest heads, and in league with the Turk 2c. God wants the last day to come, as I hope.
E. F. G. williger
Martinus LutheR.'
No. 2844.