PART II: LETTERS OF SHOGHI EFFENDI AND COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE UNIVERSAL
HOUSE OF JUSTICE

10: Letters and Cables to Miss Agnes B. Alexander, 1923-1957

"The beloved Guardian continually sent reinforcements to me in his
precious letters which were the joy and strength of my heart," Miss
Alexander wrote.

Aside from her own inner conviction, the main source of positive guidance
and direction, during her early years in the Orient were Shoghi Effendi's
letters.

Of the first personal letter she received from the Guardian (December 2,
1923) she wrote, "The words penned by his hand at the end of the letter so
affected me that for several days my heart was filled with joy and
inspiration, and a realization came to me of the power with which God had
endowed him."

Following are excerpts from some of the many letters written to Miss
Alexander by the Guardian, or on his behalf, which give insights, not only
into her role as a "distinguished pioneer", but also into her relationship
with the Japanese, among whom she lived for so many years and whom she
loved so dearly.

My dear sister in God,

Your letter to our very dear Shoghi Effendi was most encouraging and
created in him new hopes for the spread of 'Abdu'l-Baha's great and noble
Message after the painful calamity in Japan(23). It was indeed a miracle
that amid a city all shaken to pieces and burned to ashes by the wild
flames, the Lord should have kept you so safe and unscathed. We can never
doubt that this is a direct proof of the mighty task which the Lord has
wanted you to take up and fulfill in that far away East. Shoghi Effendi
has always looked forward with great expectations at the progress of the
Cause in Japan to which he attaches very great importance.

The Japanese are really progressive people and such vital teachings which
comprise the principles of the Baha'i religion are sure to seize their
attention and arouse a deep interest in them. Your presence in Japan was
always a means of comfort to Shoghi Effendi's heart because he fully
realized the zeal and ardour with which you had taken up your work there
and although Japan might now miss you, he is sure that wherever you are
you will strive to your utmost in spreading far and near this Message of
Peace to humanity. Furthermore he hopes that you will not give up
altogether your interest in that promising country, but as long as you are
away you will keep your tender plants all fresh and green