This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1894 edition. Excerpt: ... LECTURE XX THIS will be my last lecture, for the life of Erasmus was drawing to an end. He did not feel it. His health was shattered. He was sixty-five years old, but his indomitable spirit was rising with the apparent improvement of the prospect. The Emperor was gracious again; Clement was propitious. Ferdinand offered him some high post in the Church, and directed the Cardinal of Trent to make a formal proposal to him. He was, of course, pleased, though obliged to refuse. May 19, 1532. I am much gratified (he writes in acknowledgment to the Cardinal'), and I regret that I am not able to thank the Prince in person. You bid me ask some favour of him, which you undertake that he will grant. Would that King Christ had sent me such a message. Of Him I should have much to ask--especially a mind more worthy of His service. From the King of the Romans I can desire nothing beyond what his goodness already supplies. I am fit for nothing but study. High office would be a fresh burden on the back of a broken-down old horse. Wealth at the end of life is but fresh luggage when the journey is over. Neither Pope nor Emperor can delay the advance of years or make bad health into good. Both call themselves my friends, but they cannot stop the barking curs. Would they could Cardinal Cajetan also wrote that the Pope wished to show Erasmus some mark of esteem. This was well enough now when his help was again needed. He was pleased, but did not choose to appear too effusively grateful. He thought Clement might have done more to stop the 'barking curs, ' considering the service which Erasmus had done the Church by refusing to join Luther. Jidy 23, 1532. Had I a grain of heresy in me (he said'), I should have been driven wild long ago by those snarling..