he implication of this verdict will be, the
effect its practical application will have on the relations of the Baha'is
with the followers of the Muslim Faith, what measure of publicity it will
receive, what impression it will create in Muslim lands and particularly
in hostile Persia, the future only can disclose. So far it has failed to
perturb public sentiment or give rise to any official or public
demonstration of a nature that would justify or necessitate any action on
the part of the American Baha'is, who are powerfully demonstrating today
their readiness to champion the cause of truth and justice. I will not
delay in informing you of the exact measures that I feel will be necessary
to take should the occasion arise in future. It is clear and evident that
Western influence, the loosening of the bonds of religion, and the
consequent waning vitality of the once powerful Muhammadan stronghold of
Egypt are in a great measure to account for the indifference and apathy
that now seem to characterize the attitude of the masses towards this
important and vital issue. This decision, however locally embarrassing, in
the present stage of our development, may be regarded as an initial step
taken by our very opponents in the path of the eventual universal
acceptance of the Baha'i Faith, as one of the independent recognized
religious systems of the world.

National Fund

In connection with the institution of the National Fund and the budgetary
system set forth in the minutes of the National Spiritual Assembly, I feel
urged to remind you of the necessity of ever bearing in mind the cardinal
principle that all contributions to the Fund are to be purely and strictly
voluntary in character. It should be made clear and evident to every one
that any form of compulsion, however slight and indirect, strikes at the
very root of the principle underlying the formation of the Fund ever since
its inception. While appeals of a general character, carefully worded and
moving and dignified in tone are welcome under all circumstances, it
should be left entirely to the discretion of every conscientious believer
to decide upon the nature, the amount, and purpose of his or her
contribution for the propagation of the Cause.

Association with Orientals

Regarding association with Oriental travelers and residents in the United
States and Canada, I desire to emphasize afresh the vital necessity for
the exercise in these days of the grea