Publication of _The Antidote_--statement regarding the condition
of Geneva.
GENEVA, _28th December 1547_.
My _Antidote_[179] now begins to please me, since it is so greatly
approved of by you, for before, I was not satisfied with it. But
you who know my daily labours, and still more the contests with
which I am not so much occupied as quite wasted, are perhaps ready
to excuse me when there is anything not quite perfect. I certainly
marvel that any composition worthy of perusal can emanate from me.
With regard to your exhortation, that my colleagues and I should
persist with unbroken resolution, I may say that neither dangers nor
troubles weaken my determination. But as I am sometimes destitute
of counsel in matters where confusion so greatly prevails, I desire
that God would grant me my discharge,--a foolish wish you will say;
I admit that it is so; but what did Moses, that illustrious example
of patience? Does he not complain of too heavy a burden being laid
on his shoulders? I also am, in truth, simply tempted by these
thoughts; I do not, however, give way to them. We have inspired some
fear in our men, and nevertheless there is as yet no appearance of
amendment. Such is their shamelessness, that they devour with open
and regardless ears all our clamours; finally, the diseases of many
are incurable. For thus far we have essayed almost all methods with
no success. The last act remains, at which I wish you to be present.
You will, I suppose, have learned from my letter to Viret, how God
stilled the tragical tumult; for I had given him an injunction to
that effect.[180] The _Two Hundred_ ordered us, and the other ten
peace makers, to make away with all dissensions.[181] I wished
that the initiative should be taken by me. Our Cæsar yesterday
denied that he had any quarrel with me; I immediately pressed
out the matter from the sore. In a grave and calm speech, I made
certain sharp strictures, but such as were calculated to wound very
slightly. Although he promised reformation hand in hand, I am afraid
that I have preached but to the deaf. I wish you would again gladden
me by your arrival. I am aware that some people have complained to
Viret of my immoderate severity. I know not what his belief is. I
scented out the fact, however, that he was afraid lest I should too
greatly indulge my ardour. I have requested him to come hither.
One in Terence says: If you were here, you would feel differently.
I might say the same. If you were in my place, I know not what
you would do. But amid a multitude of sorrows, this likewise must
be patiently borne. I do not say these things in reply to you or
Viret, but to others who idly censure us. I seem, moreover, to see
your _sympathy_ for me, so far am I from thinking that you have any
hostility towards me. Adieu, best and most upright brother, along
with your whole family, whom you will affectionately salute in my
name and in that of my wife, as well as all fellow-ministers, and
all the godly.--Yours,