the Word of God. We live in evil times, and the world grows worse instead of better. I am the more sorry therefore for the ill-treatment which you have met with, and which is a misfortune to Christianity itself. Your welfare is precious to us all. If you are taken away nothing can then stop the spread of heresy and impiety. I propose therefore that you abandon the thought of settling elsewhere. Come to England, and assure yourself of a hearty welcome. You shall name your own terms; they shall be as liberal and honourable as you please. I recollect that you once said that when you were tired of wandering you would make this country the home of your old age. I beseech you by all that is holy and good, carry out this purpose of yours. We have not now to learn the value either of your acquirements or your advice. We shall regard your presence among us as the most precious possession that we have. Nowhere in the world will you find safer shelter from anxiety or persecution; and you and we together, with our joint counsels and resources, will build again the Gospel of Christ. You will not be without friends; you have many already here. Our highest nobles know and appreciate you; I will myself introduce you among them. You require your leisure for yourself. We shall ask nothing of you save to make our Realm your home. You shall do as you like, your time shall be your own. Everything shall be provided for you which will ensure your comfort or assist your studies. Come to us, therefore, my dear Erasmus, and let your presence be your answer to my invitation.

The situation which the young Henry intended for Erasmus when he wrote this letter was evidently some office close about his own person. The passage about advice pointed to the Privy Council. At any rate, he was to be associated with the King, in the most interesting and important duties. No wonder that so invited he needed no wings, as Mountjoy said, to fly to a court where honour and leisure seemed to be waiting for him.

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