The answer of Luther as here quoted varies somewhat from the language given by D’Aubigne, book 7, chapter 8, which runs thus: (Paragraph quoted). WWPGC 16.4
Response: Criticism accepted. WWPGC 16.5
1888 book read: “The reformer answered: ‘Since your most serene majesty and the princes require a simple, clear, and direct answer, I will give one, and it is this:’” et cetera. The quotation closes with the words, “‘Here I take my stand; I cannot do otherwise. God be my help! Amen.’” WWPGC 16.6
1911 edition changed to present the quotation from D’Aubigne. It was a matter of quoting from one translation or another, and the one used closes with the familiar words, “Here I stand, I can do no other; may God help me. Amen.” WWPGC 16.7
The one used, was not the one suggested by Prescott, but the one approved by D’Aubigne and followed consistently in the 1911 edition. It closes with the familiar words, “Here I stand, I can do no other; may God help me. Amen.” WWPGC 16.8