[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 Confédération
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,