"Your Majesty's humble servant,
"KATHARINE,
"Widow of Dr. Martin Luther.
"Wittenberg, on the 13th of October, A.D. 1530."
"They that sow in tears, shall reap in joy," whispered Katharine, as she folded the letter.
Yes, truly, thus is it written in His Word, which cannot fail. But it is also written: "My time is not yet come," and again, "Be patient in tribulation," and "Wait upon the Lord."
Again, the petition was in vain. Months passed, but they brought no reply.
CHAPTER XXVIII.
GLIMPSES OF SUNSHINE.
If there is consolation in having companions in misery, then Luther's widow might indeed deem herself consoled.
The Elector John Frederick of Saxony, outlawed and dispossessed of his throne, was still a prisoner in the Emperor's hands. Although absent from his subjects, and no longer their master, he yet governed and influenced his people; and from the captive prince a blessing went forth upon all who kept their faith with the Protestant confession. The example of his noble endurance, his heroism, and humble submission inspired thousands, boldly to confess Christ; while on the other hand the unfaithful and the hard of heart were made to feel the shame of their weakness and time-serving.