[668] Pedatum et mitratum genus Episcoporum, id esset in Ecclesia, quod gibbi et strumata in corpore. (Ibid.) Zwingle compares the bishops to the dry and fruitless props that support the vines. [669] Dicas simpliciter mente captum esse. (Corp. Ref. p. 193.) One man formed an exception to this concert of reproaches, and this was Luther. "Zwingle pleases me tolerably," wrote he to Jonas, "as well as Bucer."[670] By Bucer, he meant no doubt the Tetrapolitan Confession: this expression should be noted. [670] Zwinglius mihi sane placet, et Bucerus. (L. Epp. iv. p. 110.) [Sidenote: AFFLICTING DIVISIONS.] Thus three confessions laid at the feet of Charles the Fifth, attested the divisions that were rending Protestantism. In vain did Bucer and Capito endeavour to come to an understanding with Melancthon, and write to him: "We will meet where you will, and when you will; we will bring Sturm alone with us, and if you desire it, we will not even bring him."[671] All was unavailing. It is not enough for a Christian to confess Christ; one disciple should confess another disciple, even if the latter lies under the shame of the world; but they did not then comprehend this duty. "Schism is in the schism," said the Romanists, and the Emperor flattered himself with an easy victory. "Return to the Church," was the cry from every side, "which means," interrupted the Strasburgers, "let us put the bit in your mouths, that we may lead you as we please."[672] [671] Veniemus quo et quando tu voles. (Corp. Ref. ii. p. 208.) [672] Una tamen omnium vox: _Revertimini ad Ecclesiam_. (Zw. Epp. ii. p. 484.) All these things deeply afflicted the Elector, who was besides still under the burden of Charles's demands and threats. The Emperor had not once spoken to him,[673] and it was everywhere said that his cousin George of Saxony would be proclaimed Elector in his stead. [673] Colloquium ejus nondum frui potuisse. (Seck. ii. p. 154.) On the 28th July, there was a great festival at the court. Charles, robed in his imperial garments, whose value was said to exceed 200,000 gold ducats, and displaying an air of majesty which impressed respect and fear,[674] conferred on many princes the investiture of their dignities; the Elector alone was excluded from these favours. Erelong he was made to understand more plainly what was reserved for him, and it was insinuated, that if he did not submit, the Emperor would expel him from his states, and inflict upon him the severest punishment.[675] [674] Apparuit Cæsar majestate......insignitus vestibus suis imperialibus (Corp. Ref. ii. p. 242.) [675] Müller, Gesch. der Protestation, p. 715. [Sidenote: THE ELECTOR'S FAITH.]