"I will undertake to prove that on the doctrine of the sacrament you have contradicted yourself, and that no one, since the days of the apostles, has taught it so purely as myself."
Luther.—"Write! combat my opinions!"
Carlstadt.—"I offer you a public disputation at Wittemberg or at Erfurth, if you will procure me a safe-conduct."
Luther.—"Fear nothing, doctor."
Carlstadt.—"You bind me hand and foot, and when you have rendered me unable to defend myself, you strike me."[354]
There was another brief silence, when Luther resumed:—
"Write against me, but openly and not in secret."
Carlstadt.—"I would do so, if I knew that you were speaking sincerely."
Luther.—"Do so, and I will give you a florin."
Carlstadt.—"Give it me; I accept the challenge."