De Vio and Staupitz--Staupitz and Luther--Luther and Spalatin Communion--Departure of Staupitz and Link--Luther to Cajetan--Luther's Departure--Appeal to the Pope, 307 CHAP. X. Luther's Flight--Luther's Wish--The Legate to the Elector--The Elector to the Legate--Prosperity of the University, 316 CHAP. XI. Thoughts of Departure--Adieus to the Church--Critical Moment-- Luther's Courage--Discontentment at Rome--Papal Bull-- Appeal to a Council, 321 PREFACE TO THE LAST EDITION. My purpose is not to write the history of a party, but that of one of the greatest revolutions which has taken place among men--the history of a mighty impulse which was given to the world three centuries ago, and the influence of which is still, in our day, every where perceived. The history of the Reformation is different from the history of Protestantism. In the former, every thing bears testimony to a revival of human nature, to a transformation, social and religious, emanating from God. In the latter are too often seen a remarkable degeneracy from primitive principles, party intrigue, a sectarian spirit, and the impress of petty private feelings. The history of Protestantism might interest none but Protestants; the history of the Reformation is for all Christians, or rather all men. The historian has a choice in the field in which he is to labour. He may describe the great events which change the face of a people, or the face of the world; or he may narrate the calm and progressive course, whether of a nation, the Church, or mankind, which usually follows great social changes. Both fields of history are highly important; but the preference, in point of interest, seems due to those epochs which, under the name of Revolutions, introduce a nation or society at large to a new era and a new life.