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new stone at us gospelers.”—Ibid., b. 13, ch.

5.

Religious toleration had been legally

established, and the evangelical states were

resolved to oppose the infringement of their

rights. Luther, being still under the ban

imposed by the Edict of Worms, was not

permitted to be present at Spires; but his

place was supplied by his colaborers and the

princes whom God had raised up to defend

His cause in this emergency. The noble

Frederick of Saxony, Luther's former

protector, had been removed by death; but

Duke John, his brother and successor, had

joyfully welcomed the Reformation, and

while a friend of peace, he displayed great

energy and courage in all matters relating to

the interests of the faith.