"There is no doctrine in which we differ from the Roman Church;[638] we venerate the universal authority of the Roman Pontiff, and we are ready to obey him, provided he does not reject us, and that of his clemency, which he is accustomed to show towards all nations, he will kindly pardon or approve certain little things that it is no longer possible for us to change......Now then, will you reject those who appear as suppliants before you? Will you pursue them with fire and sword?......Alas! nothing draws upon us in Germany so much hatred, as the unshaken firmness with which we maintain the doctrines of the Roman Church.[639] But with the aid of God, we will remain faithful, even unto death, to Christ and to the Roman Church, although you should reject us."[640] [638] Dogma nullum habemus diversum ab Ecclesia Romana. (Ibid. p. 170.) [639] Quam quia Ecclesiæ Romanæ dogmata summa constantia defendimus. (Ibid.) [640] Vel si recusabitis nos in gratiam recipere. (Ibid.) [Sidenote: LUTHER OPPOSES CONCESSION.] Thus did Melancthon humble himself. God permitted this fall, that future ages might clearly see how low the Reform was willing to descend in order to maintain unity, and that no one might doubt that the schism had come from Rome; but also assuredly that they might learn how great in every important work is the weakness of the noblest instruments. Fortunately there was then another man who upheld the honour of the Reformation. At this very time Luther wrote to Melancthon: "There can be no concord between Christ and Belial. As far as regards me, I will not yield a hair's breadth.[641] Sooner than yield, I should prefer suffering everything, even the most terrible evils. Concede so much the less, as your adversaries require the more. God will not aid us until we are abandoned by all."[642] And fearing some weakness on the part of his friends, Luther added: "If it were not tempting God, you would long ago have seen me at your side!"[643] [641] At certe pro mea persona, ne pilum quidem cedam. (L. Epp. iv. p. 88.) [642] Neque enim juvabimur ni deserti prius simus. (Ibid. p. 91.) [643] Certe jamdudum coram vidissetis me. (Ibid. p. 98.) Never, in fact, had Luther's presence been so necessary, for the legate had consented to an interview, and Melancthon was about to pay court to Campeggio.[644] [644] Ego multos prehensare soleo et Campegium etiam. (Corp. Ref. ii. p. 193.) The 8th July was the day appointed by the legate. His letter inspired Philip with the most sanguine hopes. "The cardinal assures me that he will accede the usage of the two kinds, and the marriage of priests," said he; "I am eager to visit him!"[645] [645] Propero enim ad Campegium. (Ibid. p. 174.) [Sidenote: SCHEME OF THE ROMISH DOCTORS.]