pr (La ^nuW Wimtx%xif Jibt^atg THE GIFT OF CX»Mw>\_A^ t , jTKxJ^-^^l'T-vjiL,, 1673-'' #^ Cornell University Library PT 2627.I29C2 1907 Prince Albert of Brandenbur 3 1924 026 253 314 Cornell University Library The original of tliis book is in tine Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924026253314 PRINCE ALBRECHT OF BRANDENBURG Prince Albrecht of Brandenburg A STORY OF THE REFORMATION TRANSLATED FROM THE GERMAN OF ARMIN STEIN By Mary E. Ireland REFORMATION SERIES VOL. Ill ,. , 1907 The German Literary Board BURLINGTON, IOWA A^'^ ;\,^\3 1 w b COPYRIOHT 1907, By R. Neumann, Buriington, Iowa. AUTHOR'S AND TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE. IT is not thought that readers will be displeased to be taken back to the days of the Reformation ; for that century is so rich ; in that century life pulsated so freshly, that in looking back to it, we inhale the breath of spring over the field of the wintry past. One can never be too eager to read and speak of Martin Luther; and at the present time it is needed to bring forward reminders of the man whom the German people must honor as a prophet, one of whom there is always something to learn, and whose spiritual greatness we should emulate. Again he stands before us a champion upon the field; a solitary antagonist surrounded by giants, of whom the most mighty was the Cardinal Albrecht, Prince of Brandenburg, Primate of the Roman Cath- olic churches of Germany, and Arch Chancellor of the German empire ; one whose scepter extended from the Rhine and the Main to the Elbe and the Saale; the next in power to the emperor and the pope. It has been the endeavor to speak of this man and of the great battle between the born prince and the peasant's son, the wielder of power and the champion of the Word, with the strictest historical accuracy; and it remains for the reader to decide whether this aim has been reached. S CONTENTS. Chapter I. Chapter II. Chapter III. Chapter IV. Chapter V. Chapter VI. Chapter VII. Chapter VIII. Chapter IX. Chapter X. Chapter XI. Chapter XII. Chapter XIII. Chapter XIV. Chapter XV. Chapter XVI. Chapter XVII. Joyous Days ._ 5 From Honors to Honors 16 At the Archbishop's Palace 25 The Archbishop in Need 38 Upon the Way to Mentz 50 Dominicans and Augustiners 58 The Cardinal's Hat 67 In Italy and Germany 79 The Imperial Diet at Worms 90 One More Work of Art 104 A Letter from Martin Luther 114 The Peasants' War 129 Followers of Luther 140 At Augsburg 153 Called upon for a Reckoning 165 Martin Luther's Letter to the Car- dinal 178 Farewell to Halle 191 CHAPTER I. JOYOUS DAYS. ON Rogate Sunday in the year 15 14, a great crowd of people were passing out of the Ulrich gate of the city of Halle. It seemed as if the city were being depleted, as old and young, distinguished and obscure, master and servant passed through and kept on the way past the Jewish encampment until the concourse almost reached Giebichenstein. On his fine horse near the gate sat the alderman of the city, clad in his official robes, and about him were the priests in their vestments, and next to them the monks from the many cloisters bearing crosses and banners, and beyond them the different organizations of the city in their uniforms. All waited in eager expectation, for they were about to receive the new Archbishop, Albrecht, who the Sunday before had been installed in Magdeburg, and was now to be welcomed in Halle, his resident city. Upon all faces was the sunlight of joy ; for they promised themselves the best of the new Archbishop, believing that under his ruling they would have pros- perity and happiness. 7 Prince Albrecht of Brandenburg. They called to remembrance Ernest — their for- mer Archbishop, he of the hard heart and the iron sceptre, who from within the walls of Castle Moritz- burg ■ — the residence of the Archbishops — drew the reins upon the masses, until the last remnant of polit- ical self-dependence was wrested from them. Nothing but his own advancement was worthy of his consideratign, and the nobility and the masses were united in their bitter hatred of the oppressor. Everywhere he was denounced, and after every act of oppression the hatred grew more pronounced, until the smoldering fire burst into flame and a con- spiracy to take his life was formed under the leader- ship of Thomas Munzer, a schoolmaster of Halle. This scheme was frustrated, but the resentment and bitterness against Archbishop Ernest received new support; but God took the matter in hand; He re- moved him by the gateway of death, and the country was freed" from the tyrant. To have services in honor of the dead archbishop was obnoxious to the people ; and lamentations came only from the lips of the priests and choir boys. Everybody breathed freer now that the burden was taken from their hearts, and their thoughts were turned to supplying the vacancy ; all being convinced that one more objectionable than the late Archbishop Ernest could not be found. 8 Joyous Days. No one expected disappointment in the choice, and when at length it was proclaimed that the Mar- grave — Albrecht of Brandenburg, a member of the great cathedral chapter was to be the Archbishop of Magdeburg, the bells in the churches and chapels pealed forth a jubilant Te Deum to the Father in heaven that such a wise choice had been made ; for all expected that under the government of the young prince, grievances would be righted, and justice and peace would go hand in hand. They knew that the young Margrave was a chiv- alrous gentleman, with clear head and cultured mind, a lover of Art, and a patron of education ; and in every way, appeared to be a mild, kindly disposed and hon- orable man. It was also very evident that he was especially efficient in Church government, when as many as three cathedral chapters coveted him ; for after he had been chosen for Magdeburg, the bishopric of Hal- berstadt selected him as its administrator, and as if that were not enough, a deputation from Mentz, or Mayence — as it is called by the French — came to invite him to fill the electoral vacancy caused by the death of the archbishop. At this news the archbishopric of Magdeburg was moved to jealousy and gloom, feeling that the strength was divided and only a third part was left to it. Prince Albrecht of Brandenburg. It was unprecedented that so many high honors should be heaped upon one person ; and there was some comfort to be taken from that circumstance, but more from the beUef that God who had allowed Prince Al- brecht of Brandenburg to accept so much distinguished service would give him the needed strength and wis- dom to accomplish it. It was considered also — with proud pleasure ■ — that he, as the archbishop of Magdeburg, Vv^as invested with the highest spiritual and secular honor of anyone in Germany, whilst he — as archbishop of Mentz — was the Primate of the churches of Germany, and as Elector of Mentz, was the Lord High Chancellor of the German kingdom. It was under these delightful circumstances that the people of Halle were awaiting the arrival of the new archbishop. About the master of the pewter-works — Nicholas Langbein — a great number of the watchers had gath- ered, for all knew that he had been to the installation at Magdeburg, and could gratify their curiosity as to the proceedings and was moreover entirely reliable. He was not the least reserved in his communications but gave them in full; and in a voice that all might hear: "I saw the great Archbishop Albrecht face to face ;" he said proudly, "he is young, is not more than 10 Joyous Dayi. four and twenty ; but he is firm and manly, and has in his eyes the look of a ruler, but also the look of a gentle, kind father. He is of fine form, and upon his splendid black horse he looked like the noble cavaliers that the poets sing of. I noted his voice, and it is like the man, strong, yet mild and pleasant." ''How was he received by the people of Magde- burg?" asked a voice in the crowd. "How was he received? Why, the whole city was full of rejoicings, and the crowd was so great that it scarcely left room for the splendid procession to move through it to the cathedral. For, as you know, his holiness, the pope, had issued a bull that everyone who attended high mass at the enthroning of the arch- bishop, and would take a place in the procession, would have perfect absolution of their sins ; therefore so many people from a distance obeyed the call, that shelter could not be found for all. "From a window above the wall I saw the great procession, and it was a wonderful sight. "First came a great company of horsemen, their bright helmets and breastplates glittering in the sun, and as the cortege drew nearer I saw at the head of it our new archbishop. At his left rode his brother — the Elector Joachim of Brandenburg, and following were two hundred more of the nobility, all in scarlet robes and with glittering weapons. 11 Prince Alhrecht of Brandenburg. "A like company went out to meet them, led by Prince Earnest of Anhalt, with his standard ; and fol- lowed by a hundred horsemen clothed in black velvet and silk. Then followed four of the Counts von Mans- feld with one hundred and twenty horsemen clothed in sea green robes, and with banners, then came Count von Barby with sixteen horsemen. "Then came the Provost of the cathedral — Adolph of Anhalt — and next the cathedral chapters in their order, followed by fifty horsemen robed in black; and the procession ended with the alderman of Magdeburg followed by one hundred horsemen. "After all had passed through the flower-decked arch, and the greetings were over, the procession passed through the great assembly to the cathedral, headed by the Bishops of Merseburg, Naumburg, Brandenburg, Havelburg and Sebus. "In the name of the cathedral chapter, the Bishop of Merseburg welcomed the new archbishop, and put upon him the mantle of the archbishop, and upon his head the red baret. "So garbed. Prince Albrecht, amid the sound of trumpets and kettle-drums, walked through the large colonade to the high altar where gleamed the light of a thousand wax tapers, and was fragrant with flowers. "On the step he knelt in silent prayer while the choir sang, 'We Praise Thee our God;' then he as- 12 Joyous Days. cended to the altar as a token that he had assumed the power and duties of an archbishop. "After these services were over, he was conducted to the palace of the archbishops of Magdeburg, and homage tendered hita as sovereign of the people. "This was a beautiful part of the ceremony, for amid the splendid surroundings the archbishop as- cended the judicial estrade, and said in a firm, clear, voice, 'do you promise to give to me your homage, and be faithful, true and kind ?' "The whole assembly answered, 'we do,' and raised the right hand in confirmation of their vow. "Then the first counsellor turned to the arch- bishop and in the name of the people, said : 'Master, do you promise to be faithful and gracious to us ?' and the archbishop responded with a hearty 'I do,' and held out his hand to the counsellor.'' The master of the pewter-works would have con- tinued his narrative had he not been interrupted by the enthusiastic cheering of his fellow-citizens of Halle. The alderman had bared his head, and at that mo- ment all the church bells pealed forth, and the priests chanted in unison, the choir boys sang, for there had come in sight, Archbishop Albrecht, a stately, hand- some and distinguished looking young nobleman. Near him rode his brother — the Elector Joachim of Brandenburg — and next to him their cousin, the 13 Prince Albrecht of Brandenburg. Margrave, John Albrecht, of Anspach ; then came the Bishops of Sebus and Brandenburg, each followed by a number of horsemen. After the alderman had welcomed the archbishop to Halle at the gate of the city, he conducted him and his retinue to the archbishop's palace, Moritzburg, upon which, from the four round corners, floated proudly the Brandenburg and Archbishop Colors, and at the main entrance stood noblemen of the city to welcome him. The next day was a festive one for the city of Halle, and the people gathered to give homage to the new archbishop. He came upon a snow-white horse to the city hall, followed by his retinue, and there took the oath of allegiance. The alderman then presented him with a gold drinking cup, a legal measure of malmsey wine, three casks of Eimbeck beer, a.nd two hundred bushels of oats. The pipes and trumpets played, and the people cheered. The archbishop descended from his horse and led it to a salt spring as was the custom of the times, and then laid down twenty gold Gulden to the Brotherhood of the valley for the redemption of horses. During the afternoon, with the May sun shining down upon them the people amused themselves with 14 Joyous Days. wrestling and other games on the shore of the Saale, heartily enjoying the holiday, also the refreshments, all of which were provided by the new archbishop. When evening drew on, they went to the tap- houses, where they gossipped over the events of the great day. All were full of praise of the prince, who, by his gracious and pleasing manner had taken all hearts by storm. 15 CHAPTER IL FROM HONORS TO HONORS. WHERE an arm of the Main river empties into the Rhine, was seen the old fortress which had its origin in the time of the Romans, and century after century had added strength to the fortress of Mentz. It was not without reason that the middle ages named the city of Mentz "the golden;" for not only in the money chests of patricians, merchants and master artisans, was gold in abundance, but it was in works of art, and in the splendid cathedral, with its six towers, which looked proudly over the many church steeples. From the time of St. Boniface, Mentz was the seat of an Archbishop; and this spiritual honor had later a worldly splendor from the union of the crosier with the electoral hat. The Archbishops of Mentz, Trier and Cologne, sat in the counsels of the German electors, and put their weight in the balance when the German crown was to be placed. And if that were not enough, Mentz, in the course of time, owing to its electoral dignity, ac- 16 From Honors to' Honori. quired a privileged place, in that its archbishop be- came Lord High Chancellor of the German kingdom. To bring the worldly and spiritual power in like proportion, Rome did her part by raising the Arch- bishop of Mentz to the distinction of being Primate of the German bishops ; and through this he took precedence next after the Emperor and the Pope; a position which it may well be believed v/as coveted, and over which there was much emulation and con- tention, rivalry and solicitation. Besides the Margrave Albrecht of Brandenburg, who had solicited this distinction, were Duke Ulrich of Wurtemburg, Margrave Philip of Baden, Duke Ernest of Bavaria, and Bishop William of Strasburg. The Emperor's preference was for Duke Ernest of Bavaria, having the highest opinion of his attain- ments, and his loyalty. He knew nothing adverse to Albrecht of Brandenburg, but it was, he considered, very unadvisable to have two brothers at the same time in the Electoral College. But the personal feeling of his majesty was not respected, and the one he deemed the most objection- able was selected. But was this a wise choice? Had the cathedral chapter considered well the matter? Would a prince \of only four and twenty years fill the responsible posi- tion of an Electoral Primate in addition to two other 2 17 Prince Albrecht of Brandenburg. bishoprics? Would the Pope say yea and amen to all this? Was it not against all precedent to give three bishoprics into one hand, and that the hand of a young man who had not reached the canon age, and therefore, would it not require a special dispen- sation? Thus was the subject discussed pro and con in Mentz. There was also another care that pressed upon the hearts of the people of Mentz ; they feared that the elector of Brandenburg, brother of the new arch- bishop, would forget his promise to pay for the Archbishop's pallium. If he did not, then who must raise the money? Naturally the people. But the pallium for two arch- bishops had been purchased within a short time of each other, and the treasury was exhausted. This was the care that pressed upon the hearts of the people, a care which grew heavier, as month after month passed and the new Archbishop had not visited Mentz. Impatient murmurings began to circulate, when one day, about the latter part of October, a message came that the Electoral Archbishop Albrecht, with two hundred horsemen, was intending to visit Mentz. This information changed like magic all ill-humor into enthusiasm; and a thousand hands were raised to the authorities to prepare a splendid reception. 18 From Honors to Honors. As the archbishop was to come by ship on the Main river, it was decided that one of the largest of the Rhine vessels be decorated with the finest flowers that could be had so late in the season, and be sent to meet him, carrying a deputation of the Cathedral Chapter to welcome him. Following it, thirty other vessels, decorated with red and white flags, carrying other ecclesiastical digni- taries, the lay clergy and vassals of the archbishopric, all to welcome the great man. On the sixth of November, the first of the re- ceiving vessels sighted the vessel of the Electoral Archbishop, and immediately the standard of Mentz and Brandenburg was run up, and the trumpets sounded an enthusiastic greeting. As the little fleet sailed down the Main the vil- lagers on the route hailed the distinguished guest with hearty cheering, and all the bells in the region pealed forth in honor of the long expected one who had come to his own. . When the vessels came in. sight of the people of Mentz there boomed from the halls the thunder of cannon, and through the gates streamed a multitude of the people. By the great cathedral on the shore of tthe Rhine were the monks from the cloisters, the nobility, the professors and students of the universities, the 19 Prince Albrecht of Brandenburg. fraternities, societies and corporations, with their banners, and the school children, with lighted tapers. The bells rang jubilantly, cannons thundered, trumpets sounded, the people waved their hats in joyous welcome ; the Electoral Archbishop had landed. Under the beautiful triumphal arch the pi'oces- sion moved to the cathedral, headed by part of the mounted bod3'guard, clad in scarlet and gold, v/ear- ing glittering helmets with white and red crests. The cross came next, followed by the school children, with their instructors, then the music choirs of the fraternities, bearing their banners, then the court officials, with their scarlet gowns bordered v/ith silver. Then came the ordained clergy, bearing the arch- bishop's insignia, the gold crozier of the archbishop and the purple mitre set with pearls. Then came the lay clergy, the knights and vas- sals; then the pages, bearing the electoral insignia; tile electoral hat, and the crimson velvet mantle with its white ermine border, resting upon a velvet cushion embroidered in gold. The court marshal came next, bearing the elec- toral sword, and then came the star of the whole fes- tive procession, the Electoral Archbishop Albrecht, robed in a black silk gown, and with white vestment 20 From Honors to Honors. of Brabantine lace, the neck finished with ermine, and upon the breast the archbishop's cross of brilliants upon a broad scarlet ribbon. Four noblemen in Spanish costumes of black carried above his head a canopy embroidered in gold, silver and pearls ; and on each side walked halber- diers with their halberds, wearing yellow doublets and large hats with white and red feathers. At the side of the archbishop was the Provost of the cathedral, and next came the Lord Steward of the household, atid the other notables of Mentz in black silk costumes and with short swords. Follow- ing them were the students, and at the end of the procession was the other half of the archbishop's bodyguard. So went the procession through the gayly dec- orated streets, all eyes fixed upon the great man, who moved majestically, and with the bloom of youth upon his face and friendliness in his glance as he be- stowed on all sides his blessing. When they reached the cathedral he knelt in sil- ent prayer before the altar of St. Martin, the pro- tecting saint of Mentz, during which the sound of sweet voices singing softly was heard throughout the great cathedral. After a short service in the chapter room, the archbishop went through a crowd of horsemen and 31 Prince Albrecht of Brandenburg. footman to "Martinsbur-g,'' the residence of the arch- bishops of Mentz, and was welcomed by a goodly com- pany of the nobility. The address of welcome was short, as was the reply; but the whole proceedings of the festival were of sufficient interest to be kept up to the present time among the reports in the chapter room of the cathedral of Mentz. At the moment the reception was finished there came a young nobleman through the throng of peo- ple having in his hand a roll of paper and handed it on bended knee to the Archbishop, who gave a keen glance at him. "Dear Ulrich !" he exclaimed, as he recognized him, "I greet you heartily because of our old friend- ship; this day is truly full of sunshine and happiness. I really wonder why so many blessings have fallen to my share. But what have you there?" he asked, as he raised the young man to his feet. "Yes, I am quite sure that it is a sweet verse in my honor." Ulrich von Hutten pressed the hand of the Arch- bishop gratefully, as he said, "Every one has brought to you the best he had this day. To me it is enough that your Grace will not despise my humble gift." ' The Archbishop opened the roll and found a long and neatly written Latin poem, and a quick glance gave him knowledge of its contents, speaking as it did of his noble birth, his splendid spiritual and 23 From Honors to Honors. secular attainments, and his broad-minded views v/hich would bring blessing and happiness to the Church, the electoral dominions and the kingdom of Germany. "I must see you to-morrow, Ulrich, when I have more time to talk of our friends and of the beautiful time that we had when we were together at the Uni- versity of Frankfort. I wish I could have you with me always.'' "Oh, the graciousness of one so high to one so lowly !" ejaculated Ulrich, deeply moved ; "but I can remain but a few days in Mentz. I must go to Italy and study diligently." "Yes, Ulrich, I know that it would be impos- sible to chain one of your free spirit to the court of a prince ; the bird must fly in the free air. So fly away thou eaglet, but as often as you can, come to Mentz and rejoice with the sunshine of your pres- ence your young friends here, who may at some time be of use to you." The young nobleman left the castle, and until late that night the light of many tapers streamed from the windows of the palace and upon the streets, the people, in spite of the streaming rain, kept up their joyous welcome, so rejoiced were they at hav- ing a new Archbishop. As at Magdeburg and Hal- berstadt he had won all hearts. 23 Prince Albrecht of Brandenburg. When the last taper had been extinguished, and the last sound of rejoicing in the street was hushed, Archbishop Albrecht sat alone in his sleeping apart- ment, thinking over the events of the day. He felt almost bewildered over the high honors which had been heaped upon him, and wondered if they were not more than he would be able to perform. "Sword and crosier!" he said to himself; "are they not too much for a young man of four and twenty? I have but two hands; if I take the sword in my right hand only the left will remain for the crosier; will the left be skillful enough to wield it? 24 CHAPTER III. AT THE ARCHBISHOP'S PALACE. IT was a mild day in March in the year 15 15, and the falconer belonging to the retinue of em- ployes at the palace of Archbishop Albrecht was reclining upon a bench in the court yard, enjoying the genial beams of the sun. "Well, Sebastian, what business are you engaged in now?" asked Valentine, the manager of the culin- ary department, who being at leisure came out to have a chat in the soft spring air. The falconer seemed reluctant to talk, but at length replied : "My falcon was pointed to a spar- row, for there seem to be no more herons for him to grasp ; but the churl has grown stubborn, he would not let go his hold upon the flesh when I called him." "We can't blame him," laughed Valentine, "but vou are foolish, Sebastian ; who says that there are no herons to hunt?" "Who says it? Why, I say it. When I call to mind that blessed man — the Archbishop Uriel, ah! then we had the good times ! Each day he would call Sebastian, and Sebastian would dare to go to his cab- inet and sit near him as if an equal; for the Arch- bishop Uriel loved the noble sport of falconry. But 25 Prince Albrecht of Brandenburg. this new man — God pity him ! never sees Sebastian, and never asks anything about that noble amusement. "For months I have lain upon my bear's skin until I have almost grown to it. Oh, these miserable dull times ! A man will almost become an idiot from pure idleness." "How can you say that it is dull here," asked Val- tine, "I see nothing of it." "No, not you ; in the kitchen all hands have plenty to do in preparing the dainty dishes for the Arch- bishop's visitors, of whom there is no end. The Arch- bishop must have plenty of money to entertain so many." "Put a guard upon your tongue, Sebastian, the walls have ears," advised Valentine anxiously, but sit- ting down upon the bench to be closer to the falconer, he contined: "I often wonder how it will end. The table costs a mint of money. I thought at first that it was because Albrecht was a newcomer, and the rush would cease after a time ; but instead, it grows greater ; no day gives us rest from stranger guests, and what is a surprise to me there are more ladies than gentle- men invited. Now for next Friday there is another great foolery planned, many distinguished ladies are invited, and there will be games of chance and many wonderful winnings ; Bartholomew, the Archbishop's valet, tells me all. 26 At the Archbishop's Palace. "Haven't you seen lately a little gray man at the castle? Well, that is the goldsmith, John Dust, of Nuremburg, who will take away a good lot of coin with him. The archbishop is like a child when he sees glittering things, and Bartholomew says that he bought a gold necklace set with rubies and pearls for which he gave seven hundred guldens ; Holy Mother ! and what for? to throw away upon a woman." At that moment they heard a commotion in the stables, and from one of the stalls came four young knights pulling a horse, which they rushed around the court yard to tame his mettle. "Now see those reckless fops," commented Val- entine, "these young noblemen are really a thorn in my side. What does the archbishop want with them here? They have learned nothing except to run with the horses and hounds. You can have no idea how they provoke me. Look at that one with reddish hair ; do you see how pale and miserable he looks? Well, he sat almost the whole of last night at the wine table, eating and drinking, and singing, with the others. The truth is, the archbishop has too many people about him; half of them would be more than enough. The master of the household has his hands full to keep the place in order and to keep things from being carried off from the cellar and kitchen. Do you hear that voice ? It is his ; and comes from the servants' hall ; g7 Prince Alhrecht of Brandenburg. again he has had to give someone of them three blows with a stick." "God greet you, gentlemen !" said a voice directly behind them, and frightened, they turned quickly to see a monk who showed by his smile and manner that he had overheard their conversation. "Do not be angry," he said, slapping Valentine upon the shoulder; "it was against my intention to overhear what you said, but it is safe with me ; for I, too, have anxiety in regard to our young archbishop; he is not the man I thought him. What you have said of him is not the worst that can be said; but he is young, and we must excuse his taste for luxury; his associates are people who have known nothing else.'' "Yes," ejaculated Valentine, "just think of those two great paintings by Diirer and Cranach ; one painted for the palace and the other for the cathedral. They are splendid, but just think what they cost! That picture of St. Martin over the cathedral altar cost eight hundred gold guldens and I would not give eight for a little piece of canvas with paint on it." "Yes, the archbishop knows how to make money fly," agreed the monk. "And think of the Fuggers in Augsburg," con- tinued Valentine, "Bartholomew says that they have pressed the archbishop three times for the thirty thou- sand guldens the price of his pallium ; and to this day 28 At the Archbishop's Palace. they have not seen a red copper of it. The Electoral Prince Joachim of Bi'andenburg, promised to pay for his brother's pallium but forgot his promise, and Al- brecht had to fall into debt to the Fuggers, but that does not seem to press upon him, for he still keeps scattering his money. Perhaps he will put another tax upon the people as he did at the entrance of his arch- bishop's chair. Yes, he put a tax upon all the bishop- rics, the cloisters, priesthood and people, fifteen pfen- nig of their income. This made a fine showing, but if he tries it the second time it may bring trouble upon him. Ah, the pictures !" "Leave that to him," rejoined the monk. Art may cost him much ; but it shows a cultivated taste, for art is one of the ornaments of life and provides pure pleas- ure for those who understand it. I hope he will always be friends with Durer and Kranach, but the others, the others that he gathers about him; they are thorns in my side. I am really grieved that he has brought his former teacher, the knight Eitelwolf von Stein from Brandenburg, and made him his chief councillor." "What have you against him?" asked Valentine, in real surprise; he is a gentleman, and speaks so politely to us that it warms our hearts." "Bah! Now, can you not see the reason? Is he not one of whom the Scriptures say : 'Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but 29 Prince Albrecht of Brandenburg. inwardly they are ravening wolves?' No, you need not shake your head ; it is the truth. And as if this one was not enough, with him has come Erasmus, Herman von Busch, and Dr. Stromer — the archbishop's physi- cian, also that young nobleman, Ulrich von Hutten. What business has he here? I heard when he just came that he was to stay but a few days in Mentz and then go to Italy." The archbishop holds him fast, he wishes his health to improve, Bartholomew says ; he certainly looks very miserable." "Yes, yes ; anyone can see that, how' could it be otherwise?" said the monk earnestly, "these vagrants go about the world as did Cain after the curse was put upon him." "But what have 3'ou against him?" enquired Val- entine, "in my opinion all these Humanists have much learning, and our archbishop has great love for learned people." "Yes," complained the monk, "they are so learned that they think more of learning and what they call 'renaisance' than of our Holy church and its enlight- ened teachers, through whom speaks the Holy Spirit. These Humanists drag sacred things in the mire, and demean the jewel. Christian faith with their satanical jests. Through this renaisance, as they call it, they bring back old heathen times and take more pleasure 30 At the Archbishop's Palace. in the old heathenish writings than in our Holy Scrip- tures." "Oh, father, you are making the Humanists out worse than they really are; they only make fun of things which are an injury to true religion. All the world knows that there are many people who are sigh- ing for a reformation in the church — head and mem- bers. Now, in Strasburg there is a man named Doctor Sebastian Brandt, who has sent out a book called "The Foolship," in which he exposes the faults and follies of the church. Everybody is running after that book." "The man who wrote it is a fool," commented the monk angrily. "Oho, father ! your temper is getting up is it ? yet I must add that his holiness the pope is also a fool ; for in the fight between the famous Reuchlin and the Dominicans of Cologne, he was on the side of Reuchlin, and the Cologners had to bear the cost of the law-suit. I certainly rejoice over that, father. The Cologners, and particularly their leader, Jacob von Hoogstraten, that head-devil against heretics, felt it a punishment to submit; and all the world knows that these darklings are as cruel as they are ignorant. "And what crime had the honored old Reuchlin committed? He had made use of his knowledge against cowlers, whose only studies are in the kitchen 31 Prince Albrecht of Brandenburg. and cellar. He had with the torch of his intelligence lighted up the nest of this owl' brood, and being dis- turbed in their rest, they stretched out their claws to fasten upon his life." "Hold!" cried the monk, his face fire-red with anger, "hold, you idiot, or you, too, will make acquaint- ance with the owl's claws." He raised his fist to strike, but dropped it in con- fusion when Valentine and Sebastiafi laughed in his face ; and, panting with rage the left them. During this conversation in the court yard. Arch- bishop Albrecht sat in his cabinet conversing upon matters of business with the lord steward of the house- hold. Baron Eitelwolf von Stein. The room was luxurious in all its appointments ; the floor covered with a soft Brabantine carpet, and the walls draped with crimson velvet, and hung with paint- ings by the great masters, one whole wall being taken up by representation of "The Siege of Troy." The handsome chairs of polished oak bore the coat of arms of the archbishop on a gold ground, and over a table with a beautifully embroidered cover hung a massive silver chandelier with six branches, each branch sup- porting a cup in the shape of an open lily in which was a v/ax candle. In one of the window niches was a chess board of ebony wood inlaid with mother of pearl, and in an- 32 At the Archbishop's Palac^. other a crystal vase from which great violets sent their perfume through the apartment. "I have many things of which to question you," said the archbishop, "and the question which presses most upon my heart is that of the new Superior Court. I have hoped much of that court in the administration of justice, which is now in a confused condition through the whole German empire, and much eiiort must be made to bring il right. John de Lune, the judge of our new Superior Court, has been in the ser- vice for some time, has he so conducted it as to assure us that we have made a good choice in selecting him ?" "We could not have made a better one," replied Eitelwolf. "The ten assessors are all men of ability, but no one of them has his keen knowledge of char- acter, and his correct judgment; and his love of jus- tice and his incorruptibility is worthy of all praise. The only trouble is, that he complains of the burden of work; and says that he can scarcely breathe under the pressure of cases. But we see through this the need there has been for such a court, and the benefit it will be to the people." "May it work blessing upon blessing," commented Albrecht, "and may our example be followed in all German lands. And now another question, Eitelwolf, how does our new market regulation take with the people ; are they satisfied with it ?" 3 33 Prince Albrecht of Brandenburg. "It pleased them well that we wished to add a butcher to our corps of servants, and to have our own market. They considered that through this, much dis- order and over-reaching would be prevented. The butcher at all times could have sufficient supply of meat, and attend to the scales and weights and to look carefully after your grace's established meat tax, that they may not dare to ask more for a pound of beef than six coppers, for veal six coppers, and for mutton seven coppers." "It delights me to know that the people are satis- fied," said Albrecht, who had listened with increasing pleasure to the report; "may God lighten ray under- standing that I may always do what is pleasing in His sight and afvantage to the people." "Now, one more question that I wish to ask is, are all the places in and about the palace filled ?" "All but three. Yesterday I prepared the papers for the Knights, Sebastian von Rotenhan, Bernard von Adelsheim, Sebastian von Leutern, Ludwig Heling, John Kuchenmeister, and Doctor Herman von Win- beck. Through this, our knights will require sixty- eight more horses." "Why so many?" asked the archbishop. "I have twelve knights to supply with eight horses each." "We will hope that they will never need them for 34 At the Archbishop's Palace. war or for feud. I am a man of peace, and wish all under my control to be at peace. And now one more question, why is it that I have not seen von Hutten for several days?" "The poor young knight is sick and very weak," replied Eitelwolf: "if he should be taken from the world I would grieve for him as for my own son." "But he need not die. Before going to his studies in Italy he must go to Ems, and the warm baths there will bring him back to health. Take what he will need for the sojourn there, from my treasury." "May God reward you," said Eitelwolf warmly, as he grasped the hand of the archbishop, "and now I must ask pardon of your grace for having almost for- gotten a letter which has been brought to me by a messenger from Stuttgart. It is from Reuchlin." "From our Reuchlin ? cried the archbishop eagerly, "tell me about him; I take keen interest in knowing how affairs are progressing with that heroic fighter for light and truth ; the man of whom at this time the whole German kingdom is speaking, for and against." "The martyr has a new trouble," replied Eitel- wolf, "for the Dominicans of Cologne being enjoined by the Bishop of Spire to silence, and to paying the costs of the law-suit, appealed to other universities for a different decision and met with success ; for four of the universities gave decisions in their favor. 35 Prince Albrecht of Brandenburg. "Through this they have openly triumphed over Reuchlin, and thrust upon him the curse of suspected heresy. In his trouble he turned to his holiness the pope." "That was right!" commented Albrecht heartily. "Leo X is a man of clear intellect, and a friend to the light. I can imagine what his answer would be." "Yes, praise be to God, the affair had a favorable ending, for it weighed heavily in the balance in favor of Reuchlin, that besides five German bishops, thirteen abbots, fifty-three imperial cities, and with them the emperor, there were also the Elector Frederick of Saxony, The Duke Ludwig of Bavaria, The Margrave Frederick of Baden, and the Archbishop of Gurtz, who gave emphatic testimony of his strictly pious life. "It is true that the pope did not say directly that the Dominicans should pay the costs of the law-suit, for Hoogstraten — the Cologne inquisitor — believed it threatened the decrease of the great Dominican order, but only suspended the proceedings. Nor was Reuchlin satisfied with such a termination, for he had expected from his holiness a full acquittal. But he had amends and comfort in the hearty appreciation and sympathy of his friends and followers." "Among whom we are numbered," exclaimed the archbishop with warm enthusiasm. Write, to-day, now, dear Eitelwolf, and tell him that Martinsburg, 36 At the Archbishop's Palace. our palace here in Mentz, stands open to him as a refuge should he ever need one. And another thought has come to me. Our von Hutten has written a Latin poem to which he has given the title, 'Reuchlin's Triumph,' he must send it to a publisher that it may go abroad in the world." The knight Eitelwolf did not make reply for a moment, he was reflecting. "I have read the poem," he said at length, it is full of fiery enthusiasm, as is the style of our young friend. But I advise that it be not published ; as a premature 'Triumph' might after all end in disappointment for Reuchlin instead of vic- tory." "You are right, dear Eitelwolf, "tell von Hutton your opinion." 37 CHAPTER IV. THE ARCHBISHOP IN NEED. ON a warm afternoon in August of the year 1 516, two gentlemen belonging to the court of Archbishop Albrecht were walking slow- ly and conversing earnestly in one of the long pil- lared corridors of the palace. One of them was the Archbishop's physician — Doctor Stromer, the other the Burggrave Conrad von Echtingen. "You are more intimate with his Grace than I, perhaps you can tell me what troubles him," ques- tioned the burggrave ; "lie returned here from Halle in a very low-spirited mood, and he is so harsh with me that I dread speaking to him." Dr. Stromer halted to glance about him to see that there were no listeners before replying, then said : "He has had many things to trouble him lately, among them the death of his friend and chief advisor, the noble Knight Eitelwolf von Stein. He loved his friend, and depended upon his counsel holding his wisdom in high esteem. Although months have passed since his death, his Grace cannot recover from the great loss. 38 The Archbishop in Need. "A later trouble is that of his recent visit to Halle. He had not one happy day while there. It was not the joyous reception that awaited him the day of his installation; for the good people of Halle, as though only expecting him at the time of his ar- rival, allowed some Jews, who, among others, were his creditors, to station themselves immediately be- fore the palace. "For days his Grace made visits to the Govern- ment offices to inspect the state of the finances, and to his great distress found the treasury empty. Here in Mentz, since the beginning of his government, af- fairs have not been much better; but in Halle to help in some measure he had imposed a tax upon the peo- ple. In the Archbishopric of Magdeburg he would have been satisfied to adopt the same plan, but in this electoral city of Mentz is the Chamber of Dep- uties, which lay as a heavy stone in his path. "He had really applied to Magdeburg, and through his former tutor — Baron Stratburg — had specified that his predecessor. Archbishop Ernest, had, through the erecting of many buildings, and other outlays of money, left a heavy burden of debt, and asked help of the states, but the prelates and nobility stubbornly refused. "This opposition and resistance deeply woimded the sensitive spirit of the Archbishop, and after fin- 39 Prince Albrecht of Brandenburg. ishing the business of the archbishopric he turned his back upon the city of Halle and returned to Mentz. "But even here his home-coming was filled with anxiety, for Baron Eberhard, the administrator of finances, who had attended to the affairs of the arch- bishopric during Albrecht's absence, appeared before the Cathedral Chapter and complained of the miser- able condition of the treasury. None of the states credited had received anything from the customs and rents, and the debt was growing day by day; and if the High Cathedral Chapter did not come to their assistance at the right time the electorate and arch- bishopric were in great danger." "I will say in confidence to you," replied the Burggrave, that it has been a great anxiety to me that he has assumed the archbishopric under such adverse circumstances, and then, by the splendor of so much court state, and for art and other extravagant fancies, has spent such great sums. Where will it all lead? Frugality should be his great object at this time." "You are right," agreed Dr. Stromer, "I, too, have been exceedingly anxious in regard to his lavish expenditures ever since he became Archbishop. It is only lately that he has begun to realize it, and he is terrified. But, silence, he is coming." Both gentlemen drew back until the Archbishop 40 The Archbishop in Need. passed the sjxjt where they had been conversing. He was accompanied by one of the canons, and a Domini- can prior, and walked slowly through the corridor until they reached his cabinet; he opened the door and they all stepped in. "How much did you say the sum was ?" he asked, when they had taken seats. "Reckoned with the thirty thousand gulden ow- ing to the Augsburg banking house of the Fuggers, the sum is eighty-six thousand gulden," replied the canon with an embarrassed air. "Oh, the Fuggers ; I wish above all else that that indebtedness were paid; they are always asking for it and always greater grows the sum. Advise me, my friends, the waves are closing over my head," and a look of keen anxiety was in his eyes. "The best advice that we are able to give your Electoral Grace we will give," replied the canon. A new tax cannot be put upon the people, for the one put in force two years ago is still in operation. If a new fountain is not opened, then ," He halted and a painful silence ensued. "If we may advise your Grace," said the prior, who until that moment had remained silent, we can suggest a way out of the trouble, but we do not kno\y that your Grace will approve of it." 41 Prince Albrecht of Brandenburg. "Tell me, and quickly," exclaimed Albrecht, im- patiently. "Your Electoral Grace may be aware that his holiness, Leo X., has, in aid of the building of St. Peter's Church in Rome, and for other pious works, instituted a general sale of indulgences. If now your Grace would rent a section of territory from the Holy Father, and sell indulgences your money troubles would be at an end." Prince Albrecht gazed with a look of mingled surprise and gloom at the prior, as if reflecting. "I understand you," he said at length, "but the thought is present with me not to share in a work that serves only the Pope and not the Lord our God. For many misdemeanors have been allowed by the sellers of indulgences, which has caused not only the princes, who informed their subjects of the Pope's command, to be displeased, but even the people were doubtful whether the work as conducted was of God. For myself I am conscientiously opposed to it; shall I then ask the Pope's help in a cause that while it brings in money will bring disgrace with it?" "Your princely Grace will, I hope, not be angry if I disagree with your opinion," said the prior, "the most sacred thing can, by man's inconsiderateness, be misused, yet it in itself loses none of its sacred- ness. It should not be condemned because some bold 42 The Archbishop in Need. and reckless monk, in order to quickly fill his box, assures the people that the groschens they let fall into it absolves them from their present sins and is the key to heaven, absolving them from everlasting pun- ishment." "I agree entirely with what the prior has said," remarked the canon, "and advise your Grace to grasp this means of deliverance, and thus keep the ship from going down." Archbishop Albrecht remained in silence for some time, a look of sadness and bitter reflection upon his fine face ; a battle was being fought in his soul. With his clear intellect he looked upon the sale of indul- gences as a dishonor to the Church, and the misde- meanor allowed the sellers of them a disgrace. He knew what his circle of friends among the Human- ists thought of the traffic; what could they say when they heard that Archbishop Albrecht had blackened his hands in the smut of this same traffic? Would he not be filled with shame when they looked upon him as an apostate, and refused him their friendship? And yet, was not his pressing need for money a greater trouble than any other? Must he not lay aside discretion when confronted by this unfortunate spectre ? His distress of mind grew unbearable, and the 43 Prince Albrecht of Brandenburg. presence of the canon and the prior equally so. "Leave me!" he said, harshly; "I wish to be alone.'' Both men arose immediately to leave the cabinet, and had reached the door when the Archbishop re- called the prior. "Come to this room after the evening meal, and hear my decision," he said briefly, and then he was alone, but his anguish of mind was not lessened. Oh, if he had one friend who could loose the bands that bound him! He felt that he could not remain indoors, and summoning his valet he ordered his horse, rode through the city gate and away, away to the cool, quiet forest. Reapers were singing in the fields and birds twit- tering in the branches as he dashed along, but his mind was in a tumult, he could not listen. Deep into the heart of the forest he paused to collect his thoughts. Long and earnestly he weighed the matter, but could come to no decision. He was aroused from his sad reflections by the sound of thunder. A storm was coming, and he was far from the palace and knew not his way out of the forest. He remembered having passed a forester's cabin, and remounting his horse he sped to it, and the for- ester acted as guide until he was again on the road that led to the city. 44 The Archbishop in Need. Vesper bells in church and chapel towers of Mentz were ringing, and the storm was now near at hand, as he rode into the court yard of the palace, and went directly to his cabinet, although he was half an hour late for the evening meal, and the cook was fuming in the kitchen over the roast, which had re- mained too long over the fire. The ride through the forest had not helped him, for he walked restlessly to and fro in the cabinet until summoned to the table. He had scarcely finished the meal and returned to his apartment when he heard the entrance bell, and stepping to his window glanced out to see who had come through the storm to the palace. "God help me !" he said to himself, "it is the livery of the Margrave of Baden, and a presentment of the object of his visit lay heavy upon his heart. The messenger was shown in and presented a letter in which the Margrave wished the return of the money he had loaned the Archbishop. All hesitation in the affair of the indulgences left the harassed man, the messenger departed and Al- brecht summoned the prior. "I am compelled to follow your advice," he said, "I am so hard pressed." The prior bowed low to conceal his inward sat- isfaction, and his reply was worded with the intention 45 Prince Albrecht of Brandenburg. of allaying any remaining pangs of conscience in the unhappy Archbishop. "Do not have any scruples in regard to it," he said, "your conscience is not in your breast, but in Rome. You did not institute the sale of indulgences; it was the Pope, the head of the Church, and you will not have to answer for the misdemeanors of the in- dulgence sellers." The Archbishop looked into the dark, firm face of the prior and said quietly, "I thank you ! To-mor- row early I will send a messenger to the Pope at Rome, asking for the renting of a section of indul- gence territory. I have no fear that it will be a vain request, for His Holiness is well disposed toward the Prince Primate of Germany. What concerns me now is to find the right man for the work. I look to your order for the man, and as you have knowledge of most of the cowlers I will ask you to select one. He must be one who can talk to i)eople, and it is more to our purpose to have one with ready tongue than a learned head." "I know several who would suit your Grace," said the prior, "and if the Pope assigns you a large section you will need more than one. First, there is Jacob Lorcher of Mentz, then George Behaim of Nuremburg, and John Neubar of Wurtemburg. All three are capable men. A fourth man your Grace 46 The Archbishop in Need. should also have as leader, and if it were not impos- sible to obtain the one I have in mind money would rain down in Mentz." "Who is that man?' asked Albrecht. "One of our Dominican order, Brother Tetzel." "Ha, Tetzel ! I remember him ; you are right ; he is the man for the place. I remember his work in Gorlitz in 1506, when I was in the university at Frankfort. After he had been about six weeks in the city and neighborhood, and was about to take his staff and depart, the alderman of the city told him that the old shingle roof was to be taken from St. Peter's and be replaced by one of copper, and asked him to remain and help. He remained willingly, and in three weeks had gleaned forty-five thousand rix dollars. Can we not have this man? Where is he now?" In a place he would gladly leave; he is in Leip- sic behind bolts and bars." "What! has he been guilty of some crime?" "It appeared to be painful to the prior to reply, but the question must be answered, and in a low tone he said : "About two years ago Brother Tetzel was in Innspruck ; he did a great wrong and his life hung upon a thread. He was already in a sack on the bridge over the Inn river and was about to be drowned, when at the last moment a pardon came from the Emperor Maximilian." 47 Prince Albrecht of Brandenburg. "Had he transgressed number six?" asked the Archbishop. "In this point the otherwise strong man is weak," responded the prior. "But who interceded for him with the Em- peror ?" "The Elector Frederick of Saxony; Tetzel being one of his subjects, and his sentence was commuted to life imprisonment. So now sits the man who would be such a helper in our Holy Church in a dungeon of the Dominican cloister in Leipsic, dead to the world." "We must bring him to life," commented the Archbishop eagerly. "I am in high favor with the Kaiser, who wrote to me a few days ago that he is intending to take a journey, and asked me to manage the affairs of the kingdom during his absence. Through this authority I can bring this dead man back to life and thus help our cause." The prior's eyes gleamed with satisfaction; the work was now in full train, and shortly after he arose and left the cabinet. The next morning a messenger bearing the es- cutcheon of the Archbishop Albrecht, followed by two servants, left the palace prepared for a long ride. He bore a letter from the Electoral Archbishop Albrecht The Archbishop in Need. of Mentz to the Pope at Rome, asking for the priv- ilege of renting a section of the indulgence territory. Four weeks later there went out the gate of the city of Leipsic a solitary pilgrim taking the same di- rection. This pilgrim was Brother Tetzel, whose prison doors had been opened through a word from the powerful Archbishop Albrecht. He was on his way to Rome to receive forgiveness for his sin at the feet of the Pope. He had not the appearance of one who had suf- fered imprisonment. His face was round and plump, his eyes bright and lively. He knew well the service he was about to render His Holiness would fully atone for all his ofifence. His hopes did not deceive him ; on the contrary the humble penitent and pilgrim returned to Germany having not only the Holy Father's absolution, but having had bestowed upon him the dignity of an apostolic inquisitor. CHAPTER V. UPON THE WAY TO MENTZ. IN a small room in a ptiblic house in the city of Spire sat, one sultry day in July, 1517, a man who took from a portmanteau one book after another and put them on the table beside him until he found the one he sought. He was about fifty years of age, small in stature, with thin, pale face and sunken eyes, Vv^hich gleamed with intelHgence. His outward appearance was not impressive, yet in response to his touch of the bell the innkeeper waited with bared head at his open door to receive his commands, for his guest was one of the great men of his time, the renowned author and teacher — Desiderius Erasmus. Ulrich von Hutten had said that Erasmus and Reuchlin were the two eyes of Germany; two morn- ing stars which announced a new day. They were not the sun, but heralds of the sun which was about to rise. They were among the men who had instig- ated the battle against darkness and superstition, against priestcraft and spiritual bondage. Out of the mouldy, swampy grave of the depart- ed middle ages they were bringing the world to a 50 upon the Way to Ments. freer, purer air. Through their knowledge of the ancient language, Reuchlin, the master of the He- brew, and Erasmus, master of the Greek, they were clearing out the choked up fountains of classical cul- ture. Erasmus had come from Basle, where had just been published his first printed edition of his transla- tion of the New Testament, and was on his way to Brussels, where he had been appointed to an honor- able position at court. He was awakened from his absorption in his book liy a tap upon the door, and upon his call to enter, a young knight stepped in and seizing the outstretched hand of Erasmus lie exclaimed with beaming eyes, "I am rejoiced to see you, my honored teacher." "You cannot be more rejoiced than I am to see you, my dear von Hutten," replied Erasmus ; "come to my heart my brave boy and let me touch the head which has been crowned with the laurel wreath by our Kaiser. We are proud of you, dear Ulrich, you are an honor to us ; for, as Poet Laureate of Germany, you will be remembered by future generations. I must also thank you for a great good you have done me, something that my skillful physician could not accomplish. Let us be seated and I will tell you." "I cannot see in what way I have helped the part of physician," laughed von Hutten, as he took the proffered chair opposite to that of Erasmus. 51 Prince Albrecht of Brandenburg. "You will when I tell you that I had a dangerous carbuncle on my cheek which my physician could not master. One day 1 took your "Letters of the Ob- scurists," that incomparable masterpiece, in which the dusty cowlers have received a sounder cudgeling than has been given them by the united pens of all the other Hvimanists. All Europe was screaming with laughter over the book, and I too must laugh, which I did so immoderately that the carbuncle broke and soon healed. So I have to thank you as my physician." "But what made you think I wrote the book?" asked von Hutten, laughing heartily, "I cannot say that I did." "Don't deny it in the face of your teacher," said Erasmus. "I recognized your style as well as yov.r tTioughts in these fictitious letters of these night owls to each other, in which they in assumed simplicity uncover that morass of ignorance and immorality to the eyes of the world." "But I must tell you the truth," said von Hutten, with sparkling eyes. "I originated the book and my hand was in it here and there, but I had helpers in Crotus Rubinnus, Hesse and several others." "Let it be as it will," answered Erasmus, "my heart bounds at this lashing of the night owls, and now, dear Ulrich, tell me of yourself, for I have heard 52 upon the Way to Mentz. but little of you since you went to the university at Bologna. And first tell me of the laurel wreath." "About a year ago I went to Italy, intending to study law. When the hot season came on I took my knapsack, and in company of the Knight George von Streitberg set out for a tramp across the Alps. My mind was also set upon Augsburg as the first stopping place, and there, through our friend, Conrad Peutin- ger, a surprise awaited me, an honor which I had never even imagined. "In his home sat his lovely young daughter, Con- stance Peutinger, twining a crown of fresh green laurel, and I looked with admiration upon the skill with which her white, delicate fingers made the pretty chaplet. The following day we were received by the Kaiser Maximilian, and found a brilliant gathering of the nobility in the presence chamber, and at the command of the Kaiser, Constance put the laurel wreath upon my head. I was so bewildered that I could scarcely understand the words of the King. Only the last part of his speech remains in memory, which I will repeat to you 'For the reason, Ulrich von Hutten, that you, through the exercise of your gift, have added value to our literaturre, we, as a token of our appreciation, after the usual custom and with the absolute power of the Emperor, bestow upon 53 Prince Albrecht of Brandenburg. you the laurel wreath and the golden ring, crowning you poet and orator with right to teach all schools, especially universities ; conferring upon you all hon- ors, privileges, favors and freedom which have here- tofore been given the Emperor — crowned poet and orator. And as a special token of our favor we take you and your possessions into our, and our kingdom's protection, conferring upon you that prerogative which no one except the Emperor can confer. This rule must be observed throughout the kingdom under the penalty of fifteen gold marks for the transgressor.' " "You lucky boy! cried Erasmus in sincere de- light, as he clasped von Hutten's hand, "what do you think of doing now?" The young man hesitated a moment and then replied : "My friend Peutinger advises, even presses, me to remain in the Kaiser's court, and sun myself in kaiserly favor, but I have not as yet decided." "Why not ; the poet is numbered among princes, for both stand upon the heights among men." "You are kind, my honored teacher; I was in- tending to attach myself to a court, but not to that of the Emperor, but to that of another to whom be- longs my gratitude." "Ah, I know ; you are thinking of Mentz and Archbishop Albrecht, who has always been a good friend to you. I also on my way to Brussels think 54 upon the Way to Mentz. of stopping at Mentz to see him; we can travel to- gether." "Nothing would please me better, but I have heard something from people in Mentz which has unsettled my plans. I could scarcely believe my ears when I was told that Archbishop Albrecht was a helper of the Pope, had degraded himself to the con- temptable business of selling indulgences, and dared to take this miscreant, John Tetzel, out of prison and sent him to carry that devil's box through the world. It has cast a dark shadow upon my love for him. Albrecht, that noble, generous hearted man, with clear, bright intellect, the friend of culture and art; how could he smut his hands with that miserable priestcraft work?" "Halt, my boy !" exclaimed Erasmus, "your hasty blood leads to unconsidered speech. Albrecht is, as before, our own, and you have no reason to blame him. If you had seen him laughing when he read your 'Letters to the Night Owls!' He said the one who wrote it should be cased in gold." "But explain to me why he allowed himself to engage in this traffic." , Erasmus lifted his baret and wiped the moisture from his brow, as he said, "I will tell you in a few words why he took up the work. He was over- whelmed with debt, and seized the only way left him 55 Prince Albrecht of Brandenburg. to pay it. He had a terrible battle with his conscience, but at length threw the blame of the traffic upon the originators of it, and rented a section of the indulgence territory from the Pope. What would have been the result had he not undertaken it? Why, the Arch- bishops of Cologne and Trier would have grasped it, and our poor Albrecht left to be swamped by his debts. The business even at this early date has made good returns. Tetzel understands his business and has al- ready sent Albrecht enough to pay the banking house of the Fuggers the amount of their loan." "Am I so young, so devoid of understanding that I cannot comprehend this?" said von Hutten, sinking his head in his hands. "Yes, replied Erasmus, putting his hand upon the shoulder of his friend, "so young that your blood yet flows stormily through your veins. All things must have their time. Great undertakings advance slowly. Albrecht was right when he said that the en- lightenment could not be brought on with one magic stroke. The great mountain of superstition and big- otry must be undermined, and there are as yet not enough men in the project to accomplish it. The battle for light and freedom must be advanced by those who have won and become accustomed to the new order of things before they can help the masses. Archbishop Albrecht is, as of old, and stands by our 56 upon the Way to Mentz. side. You can rely entirely upon him, and he will receive you with open arms ; go to him, help and comfort him, for he is worthy." "I will," responded von Hutten, "for your words have allayed my doubts, and I am glad that he has not abandoned our ranks. But much as I would like to journey with you to Mentz, I cannot go at this time, but must first go to visit my parents at Steckel- burg Castle; and I have a piece of work to finish while there." "Will you not tell me what work?" "Excuse me from explaining now; I will tell you in the near future," and von Hutten arose, bade a cordial farewell to Erasmus and left the room and the house. 57 CHAPTER VI. DOMINICANS AND AUGUSTINERS. I AM bringing your Grace bad news which comes from Saxony, as bad as the weather outside," said his old acquaintance the prior, as he was shown into the breakfast room of the palace where Archbishop Albrecht was taking his morning meal. "Bad news? What has happened," asked Al- brecht, setting down his cup to listen. "Our Tetzel has gotten into trouble." "In what way; is he sick or disabled? If so it will indeed be ill news, for through his help I have satisfied the Fuggers, and the Margrave of Baden, and hope to hear of coin jingling in the boxes until all my burdens are lifted. Now tell me the trouble." "When Tetzel in his travels reached Wittenberg he found there an Augustine priest who refused in the confessional, to give absolution to the penitents who had received indulgence letters from Tetzel, and he fell upon Tetzel with bitter censure. And as if that were not enough, he put upon the church door ninety-five propositions which he hopes will put an end to the sale of indulgences. The report of it has flown over the world ; everybody is talking of it. A traveling merchant from Nuremburg with whom I 58 Dominicans and Augustiners. had conversation, said he would like to know if the man in Mentz knew of it, for every place he has been, he has seen groups of people in fiery discourse over the theses of the Wittenberg monk." "Is that the terrible news you have brought me?" asked the archbishop leaning comfortably back in his chair while a serene smile played over his handsome face, "is a quarrel between two monks such an unu- sual thing that I must of necessity be frightened ?" "But your Highness should not take this matter so lightly," counseled the prior, "when the report of these propositions have in such a short time spread through the kingdom and everybody is talking, and more than that believing, you may know that it is no ordinary monk's quarrel." "Nothing but chaff which like dust, can for a while be whirled about by the wind, but at length falls to the ground," commented the archbishop carelessly. "This is not the first time that a monk has thought that he can set the earth to trembling." "But this Augustinian — Martin Luther — is a power," insisted the prior, "he is learned, and has the gift of tongue which convinces his listeners." "Tetzel is a match for him in both respects," laughed Albrecht; "yet if some one comes on the scene that can out-talk him I shall not be sorry, for he vexes me with his bold afifrontery and quackery, 59 Prince Albrecht of Brandenburg. exposing my name and thus disgracing the archbish- opric. He goes to fairs, and with a decoy whistle gatliers about him sellers from the booths, the rope- dancers, the watchers of cattle pens, the people from the nine-pin alleys, games of chance, and others of that stamp, and sells them letters of indulgence. "But the worst feature of the case is that he tells them shameless lies ; for instance, he says that he does not baptize like St. Peter, but by the selling of his in- dulgence letters, he brings more souls into heaven than did that greatest of the apostles. And further, he tells them that our Savior gave to the pope all powers, and if they have an indulgence letter, noth- ing more is required of them during their lives. He has also dared to say that these indulgence letters of the pope are, at Easter, red with the Savior's blood. "These things have greatly vexed and distressed me. Also it came to my knowledge that part of what Tetzel and his helpers gather through the day they use in the evenings playing games of chance. Because of this I commanded him to talocrite in our devotions. Now the time has come to force him to give us what .we should have had long ago. We will refuse to allow the tax put upon us until our request is fulfilled. It is much against us that the alderman and the presi- dent of the City Council are both creatures of the Cardinal, and will either resist us strongly, or will try to decive us by craft and stratagem. But if we citizens will stand fast we will win the day; we will have our preacher of the true gospel, and our evan- gelical school master. Who agrees with me in this will speak." The response was unanimous, and this decision being reached, the committee went, accompanied by a deputation of citizens to the City Hall to inform the alderman of their intention. They waited a full hour to be summoned, and had began to fear that it was a failure when Dr. Gossman appeared. "You have asked for an evangelical preacher, and an evangelical schoolmaster," he said, in his usual bland manner. "This is a request which hon- ors God, and therefore is one that should be granted. Our reverend alderman will himself aid you in this, *13 193 Prince Albrecht of Brandcnbur for he knows a preacher of the new faith a learned and pious man, and he also knows a schoolmaster who stands fast and firm to the new belief. But as an alderman and an honorable man he cannot transact such important business without the knowledge of the Cardinal, who is now at a meeting of the Diet at Regensburg; but he will immediatel)' send a mes- senger there to inform him of our decision." "No, not for a moment will we submit to this!" exclaimed Wolf Steinbach, stoutly. "Ever since the death of the lamented Winkler we have asked him for a preacher of the pure gospel and nothing came of it, and our people have been deprived of the com- fort of their own belief." The councilmen consulted together in a low tone, then the syndic informed the committee that as they — the alderman and the City Council — ran the rislc of offending the land office by complying with their request, yet it would be granted, providing the citi- zens agreed to stand by them. To this the citizens readily agreed, and the Coun- cil chose Dr. John Pfeffinger of Leipsic as their preacher, and the committee and deputation of citi- zens left the building. There was great rejoicing among the com- munity that there had at last been made a promise that bade fair to be kept; also surprise that the con- 194 Farewell to Halle. quest had been so easy; but Wolf Steinbach shook his head ; he was distrustful of this ready acquiescence ; he believed there was treachery back of it. "I believe that they will send secretly and tell the Cardinal the whole affair," he said; "if so we must keep our ejes open, or the second evangelical preacher will meet the same fate as that of the first. Since Winkler's assassination, and the hanging of von Schonitz I have no faith in the Cardinal." "But he is far away," remarked one of the com- mittee, confidently. "Very well, sleep if you will, but I will watch," replied Steinbach. The next Sunday, very early, a carriage passed out of the city gate of Halle, and in it were two mem- bers of the City Council and two of the committee. They were on their way to Leipsic to hear Dr. Pieffinger from his pulpit, and give him a call to the congregation of Halle. Before the carriage, rode a postillion on a swift horse, and they had not gone far upon their journey when he came back to the carriage to tell the occu- pants that through a thicket he was passing, he saw the gleam of weapons; he pressed nearer and found there twelve of the men of Giebichenstein headed by the bailiflf, and all had immediately disappeared in the forest. 195 Prince Alhrecht of Brandenburg. "Treachery!" said one and all of the embassa- dors; "the alderman and the President of the Coun- cil have deceived us; these men were on their way to tell the Cardinal the whole affair. They have been detected and will return to report, and we will have no further trouble with them." It was several days before the embassadors re- turned to Halle. They were anxiously watched for by the citizens, and at length they appeared and went directly to the City Hall to report. "Doctor John Pfeffinger is a fine preacher," they said, "all that could be desired, but he is so popular in Leipsig that the people are not willing to part from him. Moreover he is of timid nature, and thinks that Halle is a different charge, as there is so much opposition here. He thinks that we should select a man who can adapt himself to such circum- stances and not be cowed by adverse criticism." The alderman listened in silence to what was not in any way news to him ; then spoke in very compassionate sympathy for their great disappoint- ment, and regretting exceedingly that their journey had been in vain. The embassadors kept their own council so far as the alderman was concerned, but from mouth to mouth it passed among the citizens that after the refusal of Dr. Pfeffinger they had left Leipsic and 196 Farewell to Halle. gone on to Wittenberg to hold a consultation with Br. Martin Luther in regard to a preacher. He had received them with delight, and listened eagerly to their request. "Yes," he said gleefully, "you shall have a preacher who can speak as an angel, but can also bite like a lion. He has a heart of courage, and the Car- dinal's blame or praise "will be nothing to him. He is one of my prized co-workers here in Wittenberg, but I bring you the offering willingly, and for Halle with joy, for it is exactly there that such a man is needed. You can return to your people assured that you, will have a preacher, and in God's name I will send you my loved friend and associate, Dr. Justus Jonas." This joyful news sent many of the people of Halle to their knees to thank God for his mercies. At last, at last, in His own good time, the sun was to shine for them, the sun of the pure gospel. As soon as the Imperial Diet in Regensburg was over, Cardinal Albrecht returned to Halle. It was late on Saturday night when he reached the palace, and he went directly to his room weary from travelin,^, and discouraged. He was glad it was late when he arrived in the city; he did not wish to meet anyone and receive their hypocritical greetings. He arose late on Sunday and went to the win- 197 Prince Albrecht of Brandenburg. dows of his sleeping apartment, which being on the , south side of the palace gave a view of the Cathedral Church. "Holy mother!" he exclaimed, starting back in affright, "where is the tower of my beautiful Church ?" He rang the bell and a valet appeared. "Tell me," he cried, excitedly, "where is the tower?' "The ground sunk and the tower fell ; the work- men carried the most of it away." "Leave me!" sighed the Cardinal faintly, and sinking upon a settle he covered his face with his hands and groaned in the bitterness of his soul. "Oh God \" he moaned, "the tower which I looked upon as the emblem of the power of the old belief and a prophecy of victory over the heretics, has fallen ; it has sunk; so sinks my last hope." For a long time he sat there lost in bitter reflec- tion, then arose and with tears in his eyes looked again from the window, but in a moment turned away and rang again for the valet. "What is going on in the city ?" he asked. "Why are crowds of people hurrying toward the market place ?" "Justus Jonas preaches there the pure gospel to the people." "Go out of my sight, you knave ; have you noth- 198 Farewell to Halle. ing but evil news for me?" stormed Albrecht, as he turned from the sight. The man left the room and the unhappy Cardinal walked to and fro, a battle raging in his heart. For the third time he went to the window and crossed his arms upon his breast. "Farewell Halle, you will see my face no more. The old belief is rung out, the new is rung in. Augustinian thou art victor!" THE END. 19» Cf)e 3^eformatton Series THIS series, of which our story, "Prince Albrecht of Branden- burg" forms Vol. Ill, brings from time to time new volumes of great value to young and old. We learn of the great struggles in breaking down the strongholds of human in- vention, as found in the days of the middle ages, we hear of the self- denying labors of the early confessors of the pure doctrine in accor- dance with the Word of God. The purpose of this collection is this : to increase the love for our great Lutheran Church among young and old. The books are highly recommended by the church press as splendidly adapted to impress the mind of the reader with the preciousness of our faith. I^Ol. I. IFor tlje JSafee of tl)e JFaitI), Four stories of the times oi the Reformation, from dccumentary writings. By M. Ruediger. Translated from the German. Ttiese touching stories give testimony of the many hardships to which our Lutheran fathers in the early days of the Reformation were exposed. The following are the titles of the four stories: 1. A Good and Faithful Servant (1521); Relating the martyrdom of Henry von Zuetphen, the preacher of the " new faith." 2. Fear Not, for I am With Thee (1524) Relating the history of Berth- hold von Ams:eg, his faithful labors for the Lutheran cause, his expulsion and final victory. 3. Love Never Faileth (1552). A touching story from the life of James Graswinkel of Delft. 4. Enduring Unto the End (1558). Giving in beautiful spirit the hard- ships and last days of Anne de Bourg. Price in Handsome Cloth 40c. Postage 5c. Pol* IL (SuistabUiS SltroIp|)U!9 in iSerman?* Few Volumes of Juvenile Writings have received as cordial a welcome throughout the church, as this book, which affords the reader a graphic description of the Swedish campaign in the Thirty Years' War under the leadership of the heroe-martyr of the Lutheran Faith, Gustavus Adolphus, King of Sweden. In 14 Chapters the reader is led through this most remarkable campaign in the memorable war, which marks the settlement of the religious question, which for over a century had agitated the world and brought contention, persecution, injustice and misery to the Fatherland This volume is adorned with a hand- some frontispiece. Price in Good Cloth Cover 40c. Postage Sc. ^ ADDRESS THE PUBLISHER OR ANY BOOKSELLER ^ IN THE UNITED STATES FOR THESE BOOKS jriTLL the books in this list were ' — *• written or translated by Mrs. Mary E. Ireland, of Washington, D. C, and can be purchased from the publishers of each, or will be fur- nished to libraries and individuals at a discount of 25 per cent, from list prices. THE PRESBYTERIAN COMMITTEE OF PUBLICATION, Richmond, - Virginia. R. A. MAQILL, Secretary and Treasurer.