Produced by Heather Clark, Julia Neufeld and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images generously made available by The Internet Archive) Transcriber's note: Text enclosed by underscores is in italics (_italics_). Small capital text has been replaced with all capitals. * * * * * LETTERS OF JOHN CALVIN COMPILED FROM THE ORIGINAL MANUSCRIPTS AND EDITED WITH HISTORICAL NOTES BY DR. JULES BONNET. VOL. II. TRANSLATED FROM THE LATIN AND FRENCH LANGUAGES. 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 CXLIV. 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 FALAIS.--Congratulations on the constancy manifested by her in the midst of trials--salutations from the suffering Idelette de Bure, 19 CXLVII. 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 CXLIX. 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 FALAIS.--Calvin dedicates to him one of his Commentaries, 29 CLIII. TO JOHN FRELLON.--Rupture of the relations between Calvin and Servetus, 30 CLIV. 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 Neuchatel-- report of the speedy arrival of the Emperor in Savoy--dangers at Geneva--withering mention of Francis I., 34 CLVI. TO VIRET.--Election of a minister at Neuchatel-- sickness of Viret's wife, 36 CLVII. 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 THEODORE 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 VIRET.--Instructions to Viret about a journey to Geneva, 42 CLXI. TO MONSIEUR DE FALAIS.--Calvin's labours--the diet at Ratisbon--the Church of Metz--the Reformation at Heidelberg--_Apology_ for M. de Falais-- opinion regarding the sermons of Ochino, 43 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, 47 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, 52 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, 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 CLXVII. TO FAREL.--Excitement caused at Geneva by the Representation 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 marriage, 65 CLXX. TO VIRET.--Fresh details regarding the projects for his marriage, 65 CLXXI. TO VIRET.--Same subject as the preceding, 68 CLXXII. TO VIRET.--Breaking off of the match treated of in the preceding letters, 68 CLXXIII. TO FAREL.--Violence of the family of Amy Perrin-- declamations of the wife of Froment against the ministers of Geneva, 70 CLXXIV. TO FAREL.--Calvin's indisposition--literary labours--apparent reconciliation with Perrin and his family, 72 CLXXV. TO MONSIEUR DE FALAIS.--Recurrence to the matrimonial projects of Viret--explanations on various subjects, 74 CLXXVI. TO MADAME DE FALAIS.--Sad communication to be made to M. de Falais--promise to send several discourses, 76 CLXXVII. TO MONSIEUR DE FALAIS.--Congratulations on his convalescence--uncertainty of prospects in Germany--confidence 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 Germany--explanations on the subject of the Supper, 79 CLXXIX. TO MONSIEUR DE FALAIS.--Consolations on the death of his sister, 84 CLXXX. TO MADAME DE FALAIS.--Assurances of affection for herself and her husband, 85 CLXXXI. TO VIRET.--Statement of the expense of a visit to Lausanne, on the occasion of Viret's marriage-- ecclesiastical difficulties at Berne, 86 CLXXXII. TO MONSIEUR DE FALAIS.--Military movements in Switzerland--policy of the Cantons in reference to the Emperor, 88 CLXXXIII. TO MADAME DE BUDÃ.--Calvin exhorts this lady to leave France, and retire with her family to Geneva, 90 1547. CLXXXIV. TO THE AVOYER NÅGUELY.--Complaints of the misconduct of several ministers in the Pays de Vaud, 94 CLXXXV. TO FAREL.--Mission of Calvin in Switzerland-- dispositions 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 CLXXXVII. TO MONSIEUR DE FALAIS.--Instructions regarding the _Apology_--alarming rumours current at Geneva-- Calvin'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 CLXXXIX. TO VALERAN POULAIN.--Severe reprobation of his behaviour towards M. de Falais--reply to a calumny directed against the Reformer, 104 CXC. TO VIRET.--Weakness of the Genevese magistracy-- expectation of Viret's arrival in Geneva, 106 CXCI. TO WOLFGANG MUSCULUS.--Anxiety regarding the Churches of Germany--advice to Musculus, 108 CXCII. TO MONSIEUR DE FALAIS.--Steps taken at Basle to retract a promise of marriage made to Valeran Poulain, 110 CXCIII. TO FRANCIS DRYANDER.--Confused state of the Church--hopes and fears for the future, 111 CXCIV. TO MONSIEUR DE FALAIS.--The sending of a minister--perplexities 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 relative of Monsieur de Falais, 114 CXCVI. TO VIRET.--Interview of Calvin with a senator of Berne--advantage secured over the party of the Libertins, 116 CXCVII. TO MONSIEUR DE FALAIS.--Recommendation of John de BudÃ©--uncertainty of the news from Germany, 118 CXCVIII. TO MONSIEUR DE BUDÃ.--He exhorts him to follow the example 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--inflexibility of Calvin, 128 CCII. TO THE FAITHFUL OF FRANCE.--State of Germany-- details regarding the struggles of the Reformer in the cause of the truth at Geneva, 129 CCIII. TO MONSIEUR DE FALAIS.--Thanksgivings for the happy deliverance 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 CCIV. TO FAREL.--False report of Calvin's death-- proposition (query) by the wife of Amy Perrin-- calumnious accusation against Idelette de Bure-- journey of Farel to Geneva, 137 CCV. TO VIRET.--Mention of a letter from M. de Falais-- Emmanuel Tremelli--a book by Viret--journey of BudÃ© and Nicolas des Gallars to Paris, 139 CCVI. TO MONSIEUR DE FALAIS.--Dedication of the _Apology_--mention 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 CCVIII. TO MONSIEUR DE FALAIS.--Return of Nicolas des Gallars--stay of Farel and Viret at Geneva, 145 CCIX. TO MONSIEUR DE FALAIS.--Re-assuring intelligence on the state of Geneva--restoration of Maldonado, 146 CCX. TO FAREL.--Sad state of the Republic-- discouragement of the Reformer, 147 CCXI. TO VIRET.--Rising at the HÃ´tel de Ville--heroic bearing of Calvin--trust in God alone, 148 CCXII. TO MONSIEUR DE FALAIS.--Printing of _The Apology_--troubles at Geneva, 150 CCXIII. TO VIRET.--Invitation to come to Geneva, 151 CCXIV. TO FAREL.--Publication of _The Antidote_-- statement regarding the condition of Geneva, 152 CCXV. TO THE FAMILY OF BUDÃ.--Consolations on occasion of the Death of one of its Members, 154 1548. CCXVI. TO MONSIEUR DE FALAIS.--Cost of printing of _The Apology_--despatch of several copies, 157 CCXVII. TO MONSIEUR DE FALAIS.--Particulars regarding his departure, and the purchase of a property near Geneva, 159 CCXVIII. TO HENRY BULLINGER.--Brotherly explanations regarding the difference on the subject of the Communion, 160 CCXIX. TO MONSIEUR DE FALAIS.--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 VIRET.--Ecclesiastical tyranny of the Seigneurs of Berne--sojourn of Idelette de Bure at Lausanne, 167 CCXXIV. TO HENRY BULLINGER.--New explanations regarding the Supper--violence of some of the Bernese ministers--Calvinism and Buceranism, 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 CCXXVII. TO VIRET.--Embarrassment occasioned to Calvin by the treacherous publication of one of his letters to Viret, 176 CCXXVIII. TO A FRENCH SEIGNEUR.--Exhortation to come to Geneva, that he might there serve the Lord faithfully, 179 CCXXIX. TO THE 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 steadfastness, amid the dangers that threaten the Church, 200 1549. CCXXXII. TO MADAME DE CANY.--Exhortation to a courageous and honest profession of the truth, 201 CCXXXIII. TO MADEMOISELLE DE ....--Exhortations to steadfastness in the faith--acknowledgment of liberality, 205 CCXXXIV. TO THE MINISTERS OF THE CHURCH OF MONTBELIARD.-- Exhortations to discharge to the end their ministerial duties, 208 CCXXXV. TO HENRY BULLINGER.--Hope of Union with the theologians of Zurich--dedication of several writings, 210 CCXXXVI. TO BUCER.--Consolations to be found in the study of divine and everlasting truth, 212 CCXXXVII. TO THE PASTORS OF THE CHURCH OF BERNE.--Desire of union between the Churches of Berne and Geneva, 214 CCXXXVIII. TO VIRET.--Death of Idelette de Bure, the wife of Calvin, 216 CCXXXIX. TO FAREL.--Further details regarding the death of Idelette de Bure, 217 CCXL. TO MADAME DE CANY.--Account of the instructive death of Madame Laurent de Normandie, 219 CCXLI. TO VIRET.--Various particulars--recommendation of Francis Hotman, Jurisconsult, 223 CCXLII. TO HENRY BULLINGER.--Pleading in favour of the alliance of the Reformed Cantons with France, 225 CCXLIII. TO MADAME DE LA ROCHE-POSAY.--He exhorts her and her companions to live in conformity with the law of God, 229 CCXLIV. 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 Geneva and Zurich, 232 CCXLV. TO LADY ANNE SEYMOUR.--Thanks to the Duchess of Somerset, the mother of Anne Seymour-- exhortation to perseverance in the true faith, 236 CCXLVI. 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 VIRET.--Negotiations in reference to the publication of the _Consensus_--George, Count of Montbeliard, 240 CCXLIX. TO THE PASTORS OF THE CHURCH OF ZURICH.--Urgent recommendation of the adoption of a fixed formulary in the celebration of the Lord's Supper, 241 CCL. TO BULLINGER.--Revisal of the Formulary-- persecutions in France, 243 CCLI. TO FAREL AND VIRET.--Letter concerning Vergerio-- history of Francis Spira, 245 CCLII. TO FAREL.--Criticism on a work by Farel, 246 CCLIII. TO VIRET.--First mention of Theodore Beza--poverty of Calvin's colleagues, 248 CCLIV. TO JOHN HALLER.--A reformer's complaints on the malevolence of the Bernese ministers, 249 CCLV. TO WOLFGANG MUSCULUS.--Prohibition of the Vaudois Conferences--remonstrances on the intolerance of the Bernese ministers towards those of France, 251 CCLVI. TO MONSIEUR DE SAINT LAURENS.--Statement of leading articles of the Reformed Faith, 253 1550. CCLVII. 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 CCLVIII. TO FAREL.--Tidings from Germany and England-- recommendation 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 CCLXII. TO THE SEIGNEURY OF 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 CCLXIV. TO VIRET.--Hope of an early visit from Viret-- projected excursions in the neighbourhood of Geneva, 275 CCLXV. TO FAREL.--Opinion regarding Vergerio--intelligence regarding Bucer--letter to Melanchthon--disputes with Berne--literary publications of Calvin, 276 CCLXVI. TO WILLIAM RABOT.--Exhortation to the study of the Scriptures, 278 CCLXVII. TO FAREL.--Publication of the book on _Scandals_-- persecution by the King of France--Bucer's discouragement, 279 CCLXVIII. TO FAREL.--State of religion in England--Calvin's literary 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 abolition of the great festivals at Geneva, 287 CCLXXI. TO VIRET.--Criticism of a mandate published by the Seigneurs of Berne, 289 CCLXXII. TO RICHARD LE FEVRE.--Explanations regarding various points of doctrine in dispute between the Romish and the Reformed Churches, 291 CCLXXIII. TO VIRET.--Various particulars--literary labours of Theodore Beza, 298 CCLXXIV. TO THE KING OF ENGLAND.--He exhorts him to persevere in the work of the Reformation in his kingdom--enumeration 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 Germany, 306 CCLXXVII. TO BULLINGER.--Mention of a letter to the Duke of Somerset--re-opening of the Council of Trent--symptoms of war in Europe, 308 CCLXXVIII. 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 Osiander--numerous migrations to Geneva-- commencement of hostilities in Italy, 311 CCLXXX. TO A FRENCH GENTLEMAN.--Sickness of Theodore Beza--Calvin's grief, 314 CCLXXXI. TO THE DUKE OF SOMERSET.--Protestations of attachment--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 CCLXXXIII. TO THE MINISTERS OF NEUCHATEL.--Arrest of a minister from Neuchatel in France--steps for obtaining his release, 318 CCLXXXIV. TO BULLINGER.--Edict of Chateaubriand, in France--attacks on Calvin in Geneva, 319 CCLXXXV. TO THE MINISTERS OF SWITZERLAND.--Statement of the controversy with Bolsec regarding Election, 322 CCLXXXVI. TO OSWALD MYCONIUS.--Recommendations regarding the dispute with Bolsec--request on behalf of the Protestants of France, 326 CCLXXXVII. TO CHRISTOPHER FABRI.--Calvin's dissatisfaction with the reply of the ministers of BÃ¢le, and the conduct of Monsieur de Falais regarding the affair with Bolsec, 327 CCLXXXVIII. TO FAREL.--Recommendation of a schoolmaster-- complaints against the ministers of Zurich, 328 CCLXXXIX. TO LELIO SOCIN.--Refusal to reply to the curious questions proposed to him by Socin, 330 1552. CCXC. TO BULLINGER.--Thanks for the zeal manifested on behalf of the faithful in France--complaints of the conduct of the ministers of Zurich in the affair of Bolsec, 331 CCXCI. 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 Switzerland--steps in favour of the Reformed in France--return to the affairs of Bolsec, 341 CCXCIV. TO CRANMER.--Agreement to the proposal for assembling a General Synod for the more close union of the Reformed Churches, 345 CCXCV. TO BULLINGER.--Fresh details regarding the persecutions in France, 349 CCXCVI. TO THE FIVE PRISONERS OF LYONS,--MARTIAL ALBA, PETER ESCRIVAIN, CHARLES FAVRE, PETER NAVIHERES, BERNARD SEGUIN.--Information on various doctrinal points, and assurances of Christian sympathy, 350 CCXCVII. TO EDWARD VI.--Dedication of a new work, and Christian exhortations, 354 CCXCVIII. TO CRANMER.--Calvin exhorts him to prosecute with fresh zeal the reformation of the Church in England, by purging it of the relics of Popery, 356 CCXCIX. TO JOHN LINER.--Thanks for the zeal manifested by him on behalf of the prisoners of Lyons, 358 CCC. TO THE FRENCH CHURCH IN LONDON.--Exhortations to harmony--Is it lawful to call Mary the Mother of God, and to pray for the Pope? 360 CCCI. TO THE SEIGNEURS OF GENEVA.--Reply of Calvin to the Syndics of Geneva in the case of Trolliet, 363 CCCII. TO FAREL.--Conspiracy of the Libertins--energy of the Reformer--struggles of Viret at Lausanne, 370 CCCIII. TO VIRET.--Literary labours of Theodore Beza, 372 CCCIV. TO AMBROISE BLAURER.--Troubles at Geneva--sad intelligence from France and Germany--steady in the promises of God, 373 CCCV. TO MELANCHTHON.--Earnest desires for the continuance of their mutual affection--disputes with Trolliet--longing for agreement in doctrine regarding the Communion and Election, 375 CCCVI. TO MONSIEUR DE FALAIS.--Rupture of Calvin with the Seigneur, 381 1553. CCCVII. TO MATHIEU DIMONET.--Exhortation to patience and constancy under persecution, 384 CCCVIII. TO CHRISTOPHER FABRI.--Congratulations on the subject of his approaching marriage--Calvin's regret that he cannot 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 advancement of the Gospel in England, 389 CCCX. TO THE FIVE PRISONERS OF LYONS.--Exhortations to constancy--mention of Oritz the Inquisitor, 391 CCCXI. TO EDWARD VI.--Recommendation of a French gentleman, a prisoner for the sake of the Gospel, 393 CCCXII. TO FAREL.--Serious illness and unexpected recovery of Farel--Calvin's joy, 395 CCCXIII. TO CHRISTOPHER AND TO THOMAS ZOLLICOFFRE.--Last steps in favour of the prisoners of Lyons, 396 CCCXIV. TO CRANMER.--He entreats his influence in favour of the person already recommended to the King, 398 CCCXV. TO MONSIEUR DE MAROLLES.--Christian encouragement and consolation, 399 CCCXVI. TO VIRET.--Extinction of all hope in regard to the prisoners of Lyons, 401 CCCXVII. TO BULLINGER.--Assurances of respect and fraternal affection, 402 CCCXVIII. 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 CCCXXI. TO BULLINGER.--Expression of regret for the death of the King of England--sad condition of the German Churches, 414 CCCXXII. TO FAREL.--Arrest of Servetus, and institution of the process against him, 416 CCCXXIII. TO DENIS PELOQUIN AND LOUIS DE MARSAC.-- Information regarding various controverted points--exhortation to fidelity, even unto martyrdom, 418 CCCXXIV. 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 condition of the English Churches--Conference of the Swiss Churches in regard to Servetus, 425 CCCXXVII. TO SULZER.--Statement of the errors of Servetus, and of the duty of the Christian magistrate to repress them, 427 CCCXXVIII. 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 ISLES.--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 CCCXXXI. TO FAREL.--Deliverance by the Swiss Churches regarding Servetus--vain efforts of Calvin to obtain a mitigation of his punishment, 435 CCCXXXII. TO MADAME DE PONS.--He encourages her to come out of the spiritual bondage in which she is held, 436 CCCXXXIII. TO VIRET.--Recommendation of several English refugees in Switzerland, 439 CCCXXXIV. TO BULLINGER.--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 ZURICH.--Account of the struggles at Geneva for the maintenance of ecclesiastical discipline-- appeal to the Pastors of Zurich for their influence with the magistrates of that town, 442 CCCXXXVI. TO BULLINGER.--Fresh details regarding ecclesiastical discipline--hope of speedy realization--announcement of the publication of a book against the errors of Servetus, 447 CCCXXXVII. TO FAREL.--Assistance afforded to the faithful refugees in Switzerland--reply of the Churches on the subject of ecclesiastical discipline, 448 CCCXXXVIII. 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 LETTERS. CXLIV.--TO VIRET.[1] [1] The letters of the Cantons to the King, in favour of the Vaudois of Provence, only served to irritate that monarch. He passionately replied,--"The Vaudois have but received the just punishment of their crimes. Besides, the Swiss have no more right to busy themselves with what passes in my kingdom, than I have to make inquiry into what they do at home."--_Histoire de la ConfÃ©dÃ©ration 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. Unpopularity of Calvin--various advices. [GENEVA, _September 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 contrivance 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 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 difficulty. A maternal uncle also of our colleague Peter sought a recommendation [for him,] which he brings with him. If you think it called for, you will likewise lend 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. [_Lat. orig. autogr._--_Library of Geneva._ Vol. 106.] CXLV.--TO MONSIEUR DE FALAIS.[2] [2] 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 exposed 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 he pined away himself--a prey to sickness and discouragement. 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 a long time past the good Lord has 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 world 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 himself 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 consider 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 whirlpools, however, which engulf the whole world, have daily greater want than those whose substance they have swallowed 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 property, 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 having 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 whatsoever, 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, acknowledging the love which he has shewn you. My wife, who is sick in bed, begs also to be humbly commended to your kind remembrance. This bearer, who is of the better sort, and of the stamp such as you require, will inform you more at large concerning our state. Your humble brother, servant, and assured friend, JOHN CALVIN. [_Fr. orig. autogr._--_Library of Geneva._ Vol. 194.] CXLVI.--TO MADAME DE FALAIS. Congratulations on the constancy manifested by her in the midst of trials--salutations from the suffering Idelette de Bure. FROM GENEVA, _this 18th 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, without 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 meditating 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 Monseigneur your husband, in such a sort that he may always have occasion to bless God, as he has had hitherto, for having provided 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 yourself therein. For which reason, what I now speak is not so much by way of exhortation as, while congratulating, to uphold 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-AndrÃ©. 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.[3] [3] This letter, without date, seems to have been written at the same epoch, and under the same circumstances as the two preceding letters. 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 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 amendment 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 nothing new, however, if, though only for shame's sake, they should make a pretence of applying a remedy for such horrible confusion, 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 helper among men, he has put forth the strength of his arm_, (Isa. lix. 16.) In conclusion, let us employ ourselves in his service, labouring without growing weary or losing courage, until he call us away into that blessed rest where we have contentment in himself, delighting ourselves in the labours we shall have undergone, receiving then the recompense of reward which shall 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, 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. orig. autogr._--_Library of Geneva._ Vol. 194.] CXLVIII.--To Farel.[4] [4] Letter without date, and without conclusion, written during the attack of the plague, under which the minister Geniston succumbed, that is to say, in September 1545. 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[5] is lying in fetters, and in imminent peril of his life. The very thing that I always feared, and that I foretold 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 John 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. Besides, 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 anything; but it is a long circuit. Let him, therefore, accelerate the movements of the Bernese, lest the remedy come too late. [5] Gautier Farel, brother to the Reformer. He was very soon afterwards restored to liberty, contrary to all expectation. We are surprised that we have had no announcement regarding yourself. Viret made me aware of the resolution that had been come to by the brethren; but, as far as I can gather from his letter, nothing has been done in the Council. How long, therefore, will the matter remain in doubt? Here, as you know, we are in great straits: you are away from us; MatthÃ¦us is occupied in the hospital for those who are suffering 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.[6] 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;[7] 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._--_Library of Geneva._ Vol. 106.] [6] The minister, Louis de Geniston, following the noble example of Pierre Blanchet, cut off by the plague in 1543, had, of his own accord, offered himself for the service of the hospital set apart for those afflicted with the plague. He fell under it, a victim of his devotedness, in September 1545. His wife and two of his children were carried off a few days afterwards by the scourge, which almost wholly depopulated several quarters of the city. [7] There exists (Imp. Lib. _Recueil Hist., de France_, vol. xix.) a piece entitled _Lepida Farelli Vocatio_. In that letter Calvin vigorously urges his friend to repair to Geneva, by calling to mind the religious violence with which he was himself detained there, by the voice of Farel, at the time of his first entrance into that city in 1536. "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. CXLIX.--TO VIRET. Dispersion of the School at Geneva--contests at Neuchatel on the subject of church property--Calvin's opinion of Farel. _24th October 1545._ We shall wait until you either restore Francis to us, or send Erasmus. As, meanwhile, the school is dispersed,[8] 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 _assistant-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. [8] 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. I had excused myself to Farel, but he remains fixed in his purpose.[9] 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 communication with Bucer, in order to obtain from the Council of Strasbourg a letter to the Council of Berne to this purport:--That it had been pointed out to them that the Neuchatelese did very wrong in squandering the goods of the Church; and that it was the duty of the Bernese to check this license. He 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 the 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 Farel what Cicero said of Cato, "That he acts indeed with good judgment, but in counsel does not always shew the best." The cause of this is chiefly, that being carried away by 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. [9] Farel was then at strife with the Seigneury of Neuchatel, on the subject of the administration of ecclesiastical property. Christopher will tell you about Champereau,[10] 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 opportunity of meeting AmÃ©dÃ©e. I will, however, fulfil your commission.--Adieu, again, including your wife, aunt, and brothers. The co-presbyters, my wife, and the neighbours respectfully salute you.--Yours, JOHN CALVIN. [_Lat. copy_--_Library of Geneva._ Vol. 111.] [10] 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. CL.--TO MONSIEUR DE FALAIS. Prayers for his restoration to health. FROM GENEVA, _this 26th of October_ [1545.] MONSEIGNEUR,--I hope that, according to what Antony Maillet has latterly informed us, 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 infinite goodness, as well to grant the prayers of his servants as to shut the mouth of the wicked, so that they take not occasion 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 presented 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._ Vol. 194.] CLI.--TO FAREL. News from Germany--journey of the French Ambassadors to Geneva--details concerning 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 further delay may involve a long train of inconveniences, which I should wish to be guarded against. Feron, our brother,[11] 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. [11] Minister of the Church of Geneva; deposed, a few years afterwards, on account of the irregularities of his life. My brother brought back no news from Germany, except that the Ratisbon Assembly pretends that our party continue their deliberations at Frankfort,[12] 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. [12] 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 Reformation, the Deputies of the League of Smalkald had reassembled at Frankfort. But 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,
{'title': 'Letters of John Calvin, Volume II by Jean Calvin', 'source': 'Project Gutenberg', 'lang': 'en'}