[352] "To Mons. Christopher Fabri, minister of the Word of God in
the Church of Neufchatel."
The theologians of Bâle were the first to communicate their
sentiments regarding the case of Bolsec. In a letter dated 28th
November, they openly acknowledged the doctrine which was the
occasion of the dispute. They regarded election as "the effect
of a secret cause, known to God alone, and which man should not
attempt to fathom." So far as Bolsec himself was concerned, they
were inclined to treat him with indulgence, deceiving thereby the
hopes of the Reformer, who desired a triumphant condemnation of his
adversary.
Calvin's dissatisfaction with the reply of the ministers of
Bâle, and the conduct of Monsieur de Falais regarding the affair
with Bolsec.
_November 1551._
I shall attend to your orders. Would that we could obtain our
wishes! The ministers of Bâle have replied. We have found by
experience how little advice they can give us. Myconius approaches
the matter with a certain coldness. There is no use, as you say,
in his taking credit to himself for wisdom from his hesitancy. Yet
Sulzer writes just as if it would be satisfactory. The Senate had
sent their own messenger a short time before. I fear they will
repeat the same old song. But if the men of Berne and Zurich go
prudently about the matter, we need not take it to heart; for all
depends on this, lest he may have been admitted to the Bernese
district. I am so much ashamed at De Falais, that I can scarcely
bear to be taunted about his fickleness.[353] If your reply reach
us in time, it will assist us not a little. Adieu, very worthy and
very dear brethren. I could not find a messenger up to the present
moment. My dear Fabri, I now at length discharge your orders to me.
I have not had an opportunity of writing you since the brethren
determined upon what kind of testimony should be given to Heroldus.
I have been as moderate as I could. Adieu again. Convey my best
regards to your friends.--Entirely yours,