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• PART 1. - Brightening Horizons of Israel
• PART 2. - Our Guardian Speaks
• PART 3. - After Glow of Haifa

"An epoch in its sublimity, its fecundity and duration by any previous Dispensation, and characterized, except for a short interval of three years, by half a century of continuous and progressive Revelation, had terminated. The Message proclaimed by the Bab had yielded its golden fruit. The most momentous, though not the most spectacular phase of the Heroic Age had ended. The Sun of Truth, the world's greatest Luminary, and had risen in the Seya-Chal of Tihran, had broken through the clouds which enveloped it in Baghdad, had suffered a momentary eclipse whilst mounting to its zenith in Adrianople, and had set finally in Akka, never to reappear ere the lapse of a full millenium. God's newborn Faith, the cynosure of all past Dispensations, had been fully and unreservedly proclaimed." G.P.B. - 223

Our Guardian clearly, fully, and unreservedly elucidated to the eager pilgrims this excerpt from God Passes By.

It is like pulling the heart out by the roots for most of the pilgrims to leave Haifa, the Guardian and his spiritual family, and the blessed Shrines. He usually gives the departing pilgrim loving and helpful suggestions and instructions that not only prove most helpful, but again proves the great, loving understanding, and great wisdom of our Guardian.

To this departing pilgrim on that memorable evening he said, "I hope you will help the friends wherever you go to understand these important points: 1- To persevere even in the midst of difficulties; 2- To sacrifice with joy and gratitude; 3- For the pioneers to remain at their posts, and great will be their blessings; 4- Make every effort to establish an Assembly; 5- To love the people with a warm, encircling love; 6- To keep active; 7- Exceedingly important is to live the life; and 8- To Teach, teach, teach! adhered to, will bring success and blessing to one's life." One of the last statements made by the Guardian, "Tell the friends I am expecting great things of them in the Glorious Crusade."

The parting words of dear Ruhiyyih Khanum that last evening were : " 'Abdu'l-Baha said, 'There are usually two pilgrim's visits: The first is for blessings and encouragement to go forth in God's vineyard; the second, you come with banners flying like soldiers in gladness and triumph to receive your reward. The pilgrimage is given that you may take in and then give out, to receive and then impart, to absorb and then bestow. Without these there has been no pilgrimage. It will dissolve into nothing. The Holy Land is the heart of the Faith. The heart purifies the blood stream with enriched life. The pilgrim comes laden with the impurities of the world to the heart. Here he becomes refreshed and purified to carry the life-bestowing Word of God to the world. May you be richly blessed and assisted in sharing the life-giving stream."

At the last moment of departure, one learns the supreme lesson that nothing really matters but your complete consecration to Baha'u'llah. From this moment on, all else seems secondary. From now on all your talents and efforts seem valueless unless devoted to His service. If you do not rise in consecrated service, Baha'u'llah will raise others who, however humble, untrained, or unlearned, have this greatest virtue of dedication. They will do what you, with all your gifts, have failed to do. These soul-stirring words ring in your heart. "The hour has struck'. Beware lest by turning back He may change you for another people who shall not be your like, and who shall take from you the Kingdom of God.

It was a loving but sad farewell as one left this Heaven of Heavens and Baha'i World Center, the Kiblaat of the World! As our plane circled over Haifa, the golden dome of the Shrine of the Bab, the Queen of Mt. Carmel, shimmered in the glorious sunshine and seemed to reflect the light in the golden heart of our Guardian. Yes, that golden dome seems a harbinger of the Golden Age just ahead!

[The following pages 31-52 are a diary of Moffett's journeys after her pilgrimage from June 2 , 1954 until her return home to Chicago, September 17, 1954]

It was a beautiful trip across the deep, lovely Mediterranean Sea with the lighter blue of the sky overhead. The Holy Land with all of its precious treasures faded from view, but its spiritual treasures were stored eternally in the heart. As we flew over the great island of Cyprus, we could see it was a flat desert land. There was famous Mt. Olympus, 6,500 feet high, the home of the mythical gods and godesses who, it is claimed, were the heroes of Atlantis. We landed in Nicosia, the capitol of Cyprus, this historical old city, and spent a few hours there, but felt the need of hurrying on to —

We passed over what seemed a series of barren islands, of submerged mountains, and arrived at the beautiful airport of the Island of Rhodes. Here we saw the place where one of the seven ancient wonders of the world stood — Colossus of Rhodes, with one foot on the mainland and the other on the island which forms the harbour. Here we met Romona Brown from California, and Elizabeth Bevan, a pioneer to the Island of Rhodes, who had become very discouraged because, after six months, she had been unable to obtain a work permit. Ruth was able to assist them and to leave some of the last words of the Guardian to "encourage the pioneers to remain at their posts."

Elizabeth Bevan, Romona Brown and Ruth Moffett went to Athens to try to help Elizabeth to obtain a work permit for the Island of Rhodes. We lived in the beautiful resort hotel in Kifissia and went daily to Athens. We saw many of the ancient monuments, with an excellent guide....the Parthenon; the Temple of Athens, ancient Grecian theater, the Museum of Athens, the Acropolis, the Temple of Baccus, the prison of Socrates, where Paul spoke to the Athenians on Mars Hill in 54 A.D., and where the Chairman of the Court, Dionecius became the first Christian in Athens. Sandwiched in between all the interesting historical sights were the eager questions as to the messages from the Guardian, the observance of the Feast of Nur — Light, with Dwight and Carol Allen, pioneers, long talks on how to spread the great, glad Message of Baha'u'llah.

In Rome, the Eternal City, Ruth was a guest of Dr. Ugo Giachery, Hand of the Cause, and his wife, Angeline. This was a blessed experience. Each day there were teas and firesides, and a large public meeting with very warm response, particularly to the messages from the Guardian. Some of the friends guided us through St. Peter's, the Vatican, the castle of St. Angelo, the Colliseum, the palace of Nero, the Roman Forum, the graves of Keates and Shelley and the huge building of Ministry of Propaganda for the Catholic world. It was a great privilege to again see Pope Pius X as he lay in state in his gorgeous robes, golden slippers, gloves and golden mask; the most saintly and beloved of all the popes, who was beautified in 1950. It was Ruth's privilege to have had an interview in his private audience chamber in 1927, along with four cardinals, and had some remarkable experiences. She also received the blessing of the present Pope Pius XII. Dr. Giachery and Angeline were most hospitable and helpful in making all these things possible, and great blessing comes from their sincere spirit and the rich experiences with the friends in Rome, who said they could feel the spirit of the Shrines, brought by Ruth.

We reluctantly left the dear friends and the fascinating city of Rome at 10 am via Swiss Air Lines, flying over the many off-shore islands straight for the mountainous, unwooded Island of Elba, the largest of the Tyrrhenian archipelago. It is 18 miles long and 3.7 miles broad and has an area of 86 square miles. It is part of a sunken mountain range extending from the Italian mainland to Corsica and Sardinia.

the highest point of the Island is Mt. Capanne, 3,350 feet high. The climate is mild and the soil fertile and rich in mineral deposits. From ancient times, Elba has been famous for her iron and tin mines. Historically, it is noted as the residence of Napoleon after his first abdication., from May 14, 1814 to February 26, 1815, just before the birth of Baha'u'llah. During that time Napoleon was the Emperior of the Island, and after his departure it was restored to Tuscony and became a part of Italy in 1860. The total population is only about 32,000, made up mostly of mining and fishing villages.

It was near this historic, treeless island where our beloved Dorothy Baker, Hand of the Cause of God, and International Baha'i teacher, when returning from New Delhi Conference was blown to bits in the fateful jet plane which exploded over Elba, shocking the entire world. The plane was piloted by the president of the company, himself, which was the cause of our plane dipping low in his honour as we flew over this destiny-laden spot. To the mind of this pilgrim, Ruth, it was in honour of this one of the Hands of the Cause of God, our beloved friend and co-worker, who had the key to our home for 25 years, and who left a trail of inspiration wherever she went — Dorothy Beecher Baker, that we dipped in tribute.

Her beautiful spirit ascended at the height of her lustre to serve in greater realms of glory in the Kingdom of Abha. Many prayers were offered in her behalf as we approached the Island of Elba and dipped low in her honour and then rose high to scale the towering Alps. Many of the words spoken just a few weeks before, to Ruth, in loving Counsel, were so clear and vivid it seemed that our Dorothy was actually standing beside her in the plane, radiant and beautiful. In the midst of such deep prayer for her, you can imagine the startling effect when the stewardess spoke, offering tea. That experience will never be forgotten, not will the experience of flying over the highest peaks of the snow-capped Alps and over Mt. Blanc, standing agelessly in her majestic splendour.

Beside beautiful Lake Geneva, poetically called Lac Leman, on the two-way River Rhone in the far-stretching green valley between snow-capped mountain ranges, lies the historic, old city of Geneva, noted for her eleventh century Romanesque cathedral of St. Peter, the great University of Geneva, and where the writer took a course of study on her previous trip to Europe. Geneva was the home of Calvin, who in 1535 helped to establish the "Reformed Religion", as it was called. It was the home of the League of Nations, established by President Woodrow Wilson in 1920. The same year witnessed the founding of the International Labor Office, the International School of Studies under Dr. Zimmerman. While a Special Delegate to the League of Nations, Ruth had the privelege of attending the sessions in all of these and other International Institutions, and learned much in apprizing values and relationships. She was glad to be in this key city again during the Prickly International Conference, which was in session, and to which our Guardian had referred as unable to achieve its purpose.

There was a warm welcome by the Baha'i friends who gathered in the appartment of Honor Kempton, eager to hear every word from our beloved Guardian. Sunday was spent with the Ashraf family and their remarkable children, 5th. generation Baha'is. The oldest child, 13, was with 'Abdu'l-Baha. Sunday night, 17 were again in Honor Kempton's apartment, begging this pilgrim to remain longer saying that she had brought so much from Haifa, for which they were so hungry. After the lectures we discussed ways of making contacts, and what the Guardian said about the difference between confersion and confirmation of souls. After a fond fare-thee-well we took the Swiss Air Line to Zurich.

Anna Kunz, Secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly of Italy and Switzerland, a long time friend from Urbana, Illinois met Ruth, taking her to her cosy little appartment,

then to the Swiss Technological Institute where her husband had been a professor. Zurich is the largest and the most important city, commercially, in Switzerland, situated at the northern end of beautiful cresent-shaped Lake Zurich, surrounded by rolling hills and charming scenery, and filled with many things of interest; but it has not the same kind of historical interest as Geneva. There was a tea, and a luncheon, a dinner before the lecture, and a lovely spirit among the friends. Ruth spoke on "Highlights of Haifa". Anna Kunz is doing a splendid job and sends her love to "everybody back home". Customs officers again at the airport .... but after reading the letter from the International Baha'i counsel and breathing a Baha'i prayer, as usual the customs officers never even opened her luggage.

The Guardian had said, "I hope that you can go to Germany and to Vienna. The German people have suffered much and need what you have to give them." Here Ruth was in Germany wondering what the Guardian has meant and what she should do. Fouruhid, the young Persian pianist met Ruth at the airport and took her to Dr. Adelbert and Erna Mulschlegal's for tea. Many came just to greet her — a pilgrim from Haifa, eager for every word from the Guardian. It seemed that they had so much more appreciation of what it means to go to Haifa, and also of the Revelation itself than they do in the States, broadly speaking. The Guardian said that this is one of the signs of maturity.

Stuttgart, the capitol of Wurttemburg is a beautiful old city dating back to 1229, a cultural center of science and literature and filled with parks, rolling hills, and great stone mansions, many of which were destroyed during the devastating and tragic bombings during both the first and second World Wars that have left their ghastly scars. Dr. Mulschlegal and his wife Erna were bombed out twice, losing everything they had. They started over again with prayers and faith and have become shining examples to all who know them. The Guardian appointed him a Hand of the Cause of God. He is both a physician and a historian. The friends have all gone through so much, they are devoted and confirmed., and cherish every treasured word of 'Abdu'l-Baha's two visits to them in 1912. A bust of 'Abdu'l-Baha was in the public park until the first World War. There was a marvellous spirit during Ruth's lecture of "Messages from our Guardian" that evening in the Muschlegal home, and an earnest discussion followed, with questions and great appreciation of every word until long after midnight.

Early this morning Ruth took the train from Stuttgart to Karlsruhe a three hour trip through fine farm land and waving fields of corn and grain. Daldtraut Weber met Ruth at the station in Karlsruhe. As usual Baha'is recognized each other at once, although they have never seen each other before. She took Ruth to their home in Garden City where every family has a home, a shed, and a garden bursting into bloom. There is a community house for all to use. August Weber is the head librarian of the Public Library in Karlsruhe, and very well read. In their home the Baha'i friends came to meet the returning pilgrim, eager to hear the "Messages from Our Guardian". It is wonderful to see the eagerness of the German friends and the signs of their maturity and the purity and simplicity of their lives as they live close to their gardens, to Nature, to each other and to God.

We rose early to take a train from Karlsruhe to Ettlingen at the border of the Black Forrest for an all day picnic and the opportunity to meet many of the friends of that part of Germany who had not had a public lecturer for a long time and perhaps had never heard one from the States. It was a long dusty walk from Ettlingen station to the border of the Black Forrest, which is 1900 square miles of mountainous pine forests, with heights from 4000 to 5000 feet. It has many lakes, rivers, mineral springs and some farms. There are many legends about the Black Forest and its people. It was a rich experience for Ruth to meet these sincere people and to speak to them messages of encouragement and hope, and

and of the love of our Guardian and members of the International Counsel.

Ruhaniyyih Ruth spoke to those dear responsive people in a lovely peaceful clearing in the Black Forest on "God Speaks again to Mankind", for almost an hour. They kept urging her to speak for another hour, until she said she simply had to go to catch the train to Karlsruhe, to catch the train for Stuttgart, where she was to speak at a big public meeting that evening. Fourty people had been sitting all this time in a little amphitheater made of bales of hay, and fifteen children sat so quietly, seeming to be afraid they would miss a single word. Someone assured Ruhaniyyih that someone would take her to Karlesruhe if she would only answer a few more questions. When Ruhaniyyih went out to the forest road, there was no auto in sight, only a small motorcycle. She asked "How do I get to Karlsruhe?" "On this," someone said in German. A man to whom she was not even introduced, put her small grip and her travelling purse under the seat and said to the translator, "Tell her to hop on, and if I go too fast she is to press my ribs three times." Imagine Ruth riding astride on the rear seat of a motor cycle on a bumpy forest road, which was full of tree roots, which would cause her to shoot suddenly in the air. But she managed each time to get safely back on the seat. Picture this American teacher, riding fifteen miles on a motor cycle; it seemed at ninety miles an hour, in a strange land with a strange man whose name she did not even know, who was not a Baha'i, who could get speak a word of English! They moved in and out of traffic so rapidly, she could not even appreciate the strange scenes. She did not even press his ribs three times. Ruhaniyyih was laughing and really grateful for the ride, as the young man gallantly seated her in the train in Karlesruhe. The strange sequel to this strange story Ruhaniyyih did not learn until two months later.

The man's wife is a Baha'i, but he had been violently opposed to the Faith. He had taken her to the picnic only because she wanted so much to meet the American teacher who had been so see the Guardian in Haifa. It is reported that he said later, "If an American teacher could hold me spellbound sitting on a bale of hay for two hours, and after all the beautiful things she had said, would ride on a motorcycle with me, the way I rode, and be so happy about it, there must be something to this Baha'i after all." "He is studying!!! Baha'u'llah sometimes has strange ways of removing veils! It was a three hour ride back from Karlesruhe.

Ruhaniyyih had dinner with the Schmidt family who had been bombed out twice, Dr. Schmidt is on the National Spiritual Assembly of Germany, and very capable. Ruth spoke that evening in a big hall to nearly one hundred people on "Religion in the Center of Motion in the World". They listened with rapt attention. Some said, "You are like Martha Root. You have brought the real spirit of Haifa." "Such an unusual combination of knowledge and spirit." "Can't you come to Germany to live?" "We need you for the effective way you present our glorious Message." Ruth spent the rest of her time in Stuttgart with Dr. and Mrs. Muschlegal, who are far richer in spirit because of their terrible bombing experiences during the wars. Both are so intelligent, warm hearted and mature, and doing so much to build up the Spirit of 'Abdu'l-Baha in Stuttgart and all Germany as well. Frau Schwartz, eightyeight year old "Mother of Germany", who was with 'Abdu'l-Baha in 1912, had a little tea party for Ruth, with many wonderful stories of the Master. The Fouruhid, the lovely Persian musician took her to the train for Munchen.

Charlotte Walcker, a radiant Baha'i, born with an imperfect hip, entertained Ruhaniyyih Ruth in her humble home, like a queen. It was a privilege just to be with her. She too had been bombed out and lives in an area where some of the ghastly ruins of the war still stand. Munchen is the capitol of the freestate of Bavaria, and founded by the Duke of Saxony in 962 on an estate previously occupied by monks, hence its name. This city of about 800,000 abounds in schools, educational institutions, and manufacturers. The noted University of Munched was founded by King Louis in 1828. Charlorre took Ruhaniyyih for luncheon to .....

Where they were the guests of Annelisse Bopp, a Baha'i who is Administrative Director of the first any only U.N.E.S.C.O. Youth Institute in the world. The buildings are beautiful and those present were so fired with the spirit of our Guardian that they decided right then to start a new fireside in Gauting.

A group of nine eager souls came to Charlotte Whalcher's tiny apartment that evening asking questions until long after midnight. They returned the next day for an all day session. Among these was a man, Werner Hasting Ausburg who has a radiant and sincere spirit who had suffered much. He was a monk in a monastary in Bulgaria with all that means. He left and wrote some articles against the practices in monasteries, for which he was terribly persecuted. Five operations resulted. He had studied almost everything, and had found the only authentic and satisfactory answers in the Baha'i Revelation. Ruhaniyyih considered it a great privilege to clear up some of the last questions that had troubled him. An ardent group of fifteen crowded onto Charlotte's tiny apartment that evening for our last hours together. Included were Mr. Weber from Karlesruhe and Miss Annelisse from Gauting. Not many American teachers have lectured in Germany since Ruhiyyih Khanum, and her mother May Maxwell and Ruhauguis Bolles were there in 1937. These were remembered with much loving appreciation.

At 17:40 o'clock, Ruhaniyyih left Munchen by plane, flying over the beautiful country of Germany where every farm looked a carefully planted garden; where every forest is most anxiously protected, and arrived in the beautiful city of Vienna at 7:00 p.m. To her great surprise she was met at the airport by Vahilollah Vargha, Hand of the Cause, and his wife, daughter, and seven of the Baha'is who had a welcoming dinner for her. Almost every hour of those few days was filled with lectures, dinners, luncheons, teas, conferences with those dear people. Vienna she found a most beautiful city, full of ancient as well as modern charm. Many magnificent marble palaces, broad avenues and gorgeous rose gardens everywhere. Here the immense gothic cathedral of St. Stephen, and the palatial library of one million volumes; the magnificent University of Vienna, dating back to 1365, one of the oldest and most famous universities in the world. There is the impressive green and misty mountains in the close background. Although Ruhaniyyih had been in many countries of the world, she had seldom seen one with so much beauty, history, charm and magnificence. Matilde Maroschits, the young girl and her mother to whom Ruhaniyyih had given her seat in the packed bus through the mountains, from the airport, entertained Ruhaniyyih for lunch and tea. They became interested in the glad Message.

The Hand of the Cause, Vahilollah Vargha, arranged for Ruhaniyyih to spend as much time as possible with them where she learned the most thrilling story of her life. He was a secret agent for the Shah of Persia, and kept him informed of the message of guidance from 'Abdu'l-Baha. As long as the Shah obeyed these inspired directives he prospered. But when in a crisis he followed his own stubborn will, he failed miserably, suffered much and died broken hearted. Vahilillah Vargha was in constant danger, but his courage and wisdom and faith in the protection of 'Abdu'l-Baha preserved him. He accomplished so many almost impossible things for Baha'u'llah, it is no wonder that he was chosen as Hand of the Cause of God.

Two of the most thrilling experiecnes in Vienna were the two times Ruth lectured behind the fringe of the Iron Curtain in the Soviet Controlled Zone, in the homes of two Persian families living in that sector, Ruhaniyyih was not permitted to speak English on the street, but only inside the black curtained homes. All street and hall lights are out at 10:00 p.m., and the only transportation at night is on foot with a tiny shrouded flashlight. Though everything was dark outside, there was a radiant light in the hearts of the twenty lovely souls united in the spirit of the Blessed Beauty. Dear Mr. Poillenger acted as translator. Manucher Khan took Ruhaniyyih to the six hundred year old museum, where she has seldom seen such magnificence. Fourty- five people could stand inside the huge chandelier in the palatial Assembly Hall. It costs $15,000 just to turn the lights on for one evening. They are turned on only for special occasions, to one of which Ruhaniyyih was invited, but

went instead to a Feast with the Friends, in the home of Madhi Vargha in the Soviet Zone. There was an unusually beautiful spirit. She visited Schonbrunn Castle where Emperor Franz Joseph was born, lived and died. Here one can see all the pomp and royal life they led. As Ruth went through the rooms, looking at the exquisite furniture, pictures, hangings etc, she could not help thinking of the tragedy of his life, especially what Emperor Franz Joseph missed when Baha'u'llah admonished him for not visiting Him, when he was in the Holy Land, and knew of His Great Mission. "God Passed By" when the Emperor "Passed Him By".

Johanna von Warthorn, a member of the N.S.A. of Germany, met Ruhaniyyih at the airport, entertained her in their home, then took Ruth to the new Baha'i Center for public speaking. Ruth's talk there was "The New Way of Life for World Civilization", which they said brought the spirit of Haifa to them as did Ruhiyyih Khanum, and Martha Root years ago. The Baha'i center at Frankfort had been bombed out and the friends there lost everything. They ought the ruins, cleaned it up, built a four-story building, most of which they rent out, and have it all paid for today. One cannot help but admire the courage, faith and vision of these dear German people. On June 25, Ruhaniyyih spoke again at the Baha'i Center and was rejoiced to see the eager, responsive, mature spirit of the German Baha'is and their appreciation of the station of the Guardianship, which she wished was more apparent everywhere. Ben Levy, way over in Dormandorft, learned that Ruth Moffett was in Frankfort, jumped on a train and came for a few lovely hours, and arranged to meet later in Brussels.

Frankfort-am-Main is a historical city dating back to 724 when Charlemagne convoked the Council of Frankfort. It was the first free city of the German Empire, and became one of the first Protestant cities, the Ancestral home of the Rothschilds with their magnificent palaces, the home of the inspired Goethe, the city in which most of the German Emperors were elected, and today a city of about 500,000, and which has become not only the railroad and commercial center of Germany, but home of some of the strongest moneyed institutions of the world. One could feel the Godlessness in the very atmosphere, and the need of the way of Life for the New Day that Baha'u'llah has given to the world.

Johanna took Ruhaniyyih early the next morning to Heidleberg, where they met Dr. Albert Mulschlegel, Hand of the Cause of God, an eminent Historian, Physician and Writer. He has written a large volume on the history of Europe and is a recognized authority, speaks five languages, including Russian. Though they were bombed out twice during the war, they have come back bigger than ever, and more noble. Erna, his wife, save the life and legs of a Persian girl student by having a large piece of skin from her stomach grafted on the leg of the girl, without being detached from her own body for three months! She had to lie almost motionless days and nights to save the life of the girl, who was not a Baha'i. Although this delicate operation almost took the lives of both girls, you seldom can see more radiant Baha'is. The other girl became a Baha'i while attached together! Other members of the N.S.A. of Germany met Ruhaniyyih and Johanna in Heidleberg and went on together up in the mountains, to the quaint little city of Neckargemund, to the home of Dr. Hermann Grossman, Hand of the Cause, and his wife, Anna There home is perched high in a garden on a shelf on the side of a beautiful mountain.

It was such a privilege to be a guest of Dr. and Anna Grossman in their lovely home on the side of the mountain, and during the sessions of the N.S.A. of Germany, having most of their meals with them and spending the day with Dr. Hermann Grossman, Hand of the Cause! He has remarkable files and library, and loves his beautiful garden. He has done so much for the Guardian, it is no wonder that he is a Hand of the Cause. His wife Anna is secretary of the N.S.A. of Germany and is a wonder in all that she accomplishes each day in the midst of so many frustrations. During the coffee break from 4 to 6, the N.S.A. had Ruhaniyyih speak to them on the "Messages from the Guardian". There was unusual and eager

appreciative attention to every word.

Ruhaniyyih was a guest in the home of Frau Carla Maco and daughter, and spoke almost continuously from 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. to groups as they came and went, including a public meeting at 2 p.m. and again at 7:30 p.m. Udo Schaefer was a good translator. Such tragic stories of war are told everywhere! That beautiful soul, Carla Macco was placed in prison for four months, and was saved by her son, from the concentration camp. But he was later killed in action. The Baha'i Friends are so alive, and the rest of the German people, although fine people, seem not to have awakened spiritually as a result of their awful experiences. It was interesting to see the famous Heidleberg University, castle, gardens, city ---- one of the few places not bombed.

Fritz Krause took Ruhaniyyih back to Neckargemund for the farewell to the members of the N.S.A. and for lunch again with the Grossmanns. It is wonderful these dear people accomplish so much, amid so many difficulties, and with such a radiant spirit!

Johanna and Ruhaniyyih rose at dawn, walked down the mountain to catch the bus for Heidleberg, and the train for Frankfort and arrived just in time to catch the train for Bonn where Doris Loshe met Ruhaniyyih with a warm welcome. She had arranged a dinner and a public meeting in a the large Community House where Ruhaniyyih spoke on the "New Way of Life for World Civilization". Dear Doris translated. Some non-Baha'i men said, "We have never heard such a clear and intelligent presentation of such basic ideas." All Germany should have heard this lecture tonight. This is just what Germany needs!" All where so happy to have Shozo Kadota from Japan surprise us! He heard that Ruhaniyyih, whom he had met in the Louhelen Summer School, was in Bonn and arrived to meet her again and ask her more questions on the essential verities.

Bonn is a very old city, the birthplace of Beethoven, in 1770. The noted University of Bonn ranks next to the University of Berlin and was established in 1777. This old city was one of the first Roman fortresses on the Rhine and was repeatedly beseiged in the Catholic and Protestant conflicts. the imposing Munster Cathedral overshadowing the city adds to the picturesqueness, with its fine Romanesque Architecture. This fine old city was badly bombed and does not seem to be rebuilding as is Stuttgart and Frankfort.

There was a total eclipse of the sun as Shozo Kadota, Doris Loshe and Ruhaniyyih had dinner together, and a long talk later on the train to.....

There was no one to meet her and she had no address except the name of a Persian University student, that she had been asked to find, Hassan Afnan, a Baha'i. A stranger took her and her baggage to the British Military Police. After hours of effort and walking miles, she finally located him and his bride at the edge of the city. She was exhausted after walking so far over gravel roads. She was told that Ursula Muelschlegel had phoned long distance of the arrival of Ruhaniyyih and of the importance of getting those interested to hear her.... a meeting was arranged in the home of Hans Green, the only home open in this city, where a fine group of eager young people gathered. They said they were not only inspired and quickened by the Spirit of Haifa, but that it would have been a loss if Ruhaniyyih had not persevered in her efforts to find them, and given them the message from the Guardian. So few other teachers have ever come to them.

No one seemed to have the addresses of any of the Persian Baha'i students in Cologne. There was no one to meet her or to whom she could turn for advice. She rented a room in the home of Mr. & Mrs. Blum, Jews. In her broken German she showed them pictures of Israel and the Shrines, and gave them the glad Message for which they were most appreciative. She went alone to see the beautiful gothic Cologne Cathedral, which she had seen on a previous trip. It is 433 feet long, 200 feet wide, with two spires 512 feet high, begun in 1245. The great bell in the south tower is cast from conquered Cannon and is one of the largest bells in the world. The cathedral contains the reputed bones of the three Magi, and is one of the objects of many pilgrimages. The many churches, the narrow, crooked streets, the massive buildings make a fascinating atmosphere for this old city. Ruhaniyyih, when she went to the Royal Sabina office, found that her plane ticket could not get her to Brussels in time for the lecture she was scheduled to give the next night. The head official said he would arrange for her to get there on time, and that she was to be at a certain address in the center of town by 10:30 that a.m. She found it was a Heliport!! there was a loud buzzing noise over-head and a helicopter came right down in front of her. She quickly popped in, strapped to her seat; the only passenger. Just then a man came running, waving his grip. He too was popped in and off they went, straight up! Ruhaniyyih smiled at the man, and shouted above the roar of the motors, "Do you speak English?" He said "Yes, and thank goodness you do too! Is this your first experience in these contraptions?" What a thrilling experience to fly straight up, down, forward or backwards at the will the pilot! The Royal Sabina Air Lines are the only International Helicopter service thus far and it is very fine.

The helicopter travels about 110 to 125 miles per hour and 800 to 1000 feet high although some have risen to 2289 feet and at speeds of 150 miles per hour. They can rise 1000 feet per minute and from the center of the city. So it seems that this will soon be the handy bus service of the air. What a thrilling experience to fly through a rainbow! The whole world looks like a rose garden!

the Helicopter flew to these two cities, where Ruhaniyyih by Ben Levy, the Nye family and the Baha'i friends. For three lovely days there were talks and teas, dinners and conferences. Ben Levy came way from Darmstadt, Germany to be there at this time and Ruhaniyyih helped in the selection of the garments for his approaching wedding. Etta Graff came way from Antwerp to obtain the latest words from the Guardian. The lectures in the Baha'i Center were translated by friends into both French and German. They were received with a beautiful eager spirit, and a Feast was given in honour of this pilgrim. The Nye family and Ben Levy took Ruhaniyyih around this beautiful city, one of the finest in Europe. It has treeshaded boulevards, splendid parks and picturesque squares, and massive old churches and buildings dating back to the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries. Brussels is also noted for the Brussels Confrence which took place on July 27, 1874.

This Conference was called by the Russian Emperor to render more humane, the rules and usages of war. All the countries of Europe took part except Britain, and the U.S.A., who did not send representatives. Although the conference did not accomplish all for which it was called, it marked an important advance in the international law, for which the Belgium people are proud. It was a great joy for Ruhaniyyih to meet and know the beautiful spirit of these warm-hearted people of Belgium.

It was a lovely flight via Sabena from Brussels to London, early this morning, over the picturesque villages and hamlets with a cathedral spire in a little white steeple, in the center of each, pointing heavenward. The smokey towns around London indicated to me that the plane was approaching the world's largest city. Arriving at 1:30 simultaneously with planes from all around the globe, again proving the shrinking world. Mr. Anchoury Nazar and their son George met Ruhaniyyih at the airport. It was a long, interesting drive to their home in Mill Hill where she was the guest of all this family and where many friends gathered to receive the latest messages from the Guardian. It was a blessed privilege for Ruth to be a guest in this home of six lovely souls, for they had been home only one week after making the complete Pilgrimage to all the Holy Places, not only in the Holy Land, but in Iran, Iraq, Turkey and Adrianople. They were radiant with spirit and over-flowing with their marvellous experiences and wonderful stories of the Master, 'Abdu'l-Baha. The many who came for the teas, lunches, etc., were eager to meet the American teacher with the latest message, not wanting to miss one word from the Guardian. The beaming Nazar family arranged for Ruth to make their home her headquarters while in the British Isles, for which she was most grateful. They took her about over this fascinating city covering an area of almost seven hundred square miles, with a population of about nine million people. Would that they all had the Light of the New Day! Such a mental, physical, moral and spiritual fog seems to hang over this great city, dimming the light of the spirit.

Gregarious old London is, however a most fascinating city with its background of history, royalty, music, art, philosophy, science, human welfare in their various steps of progress.

Some of the structures that we saw created atmosphere in this captivating old city are the venerable Westminster Abbey and the awsome old Tower of London, also the Parliament building, the largest Gothic building in the world. It covers eight acres, contains one thousand rooms and two miles of corridors! There is the dome of St. Pauls Cathedral, massive Buckingham and St. James Palaces, the Albert Memorial, Cleopatra's Needle, the British Museum with its more than four million books and priceless treasures, Kew Gardens and the bell tower from which Big Ben solemnly tolls out the passing hours!

Never can Ruth forget the warmth of the Persian friends and their eagerness to learn every word from the Guardian, and of her experiences. During the firesides in London, arrangements were made for her to teach in many cities in the British Isles, as many as possible, as the Guardian had requested.

Mrs. Gladys Blackwell, Chairman of the National Teaching Committee of Southern England, arranged the first booking, way down in Southern England in the home of John Shortland, in North Hampton, the British center of the boot and shoe industry, Population about ninety five thousand. It was badly bombed during the war, John Shortland was a most gracious host, and Mrs. Betty Reed, a member of the National Teaching Committee with their eager questions, helped to add much to the spiritual feast, as both are aflame for the Cause of Baha'u'llah. John entertained Ruth at his restaurant for lunch before she left by train for ...

In Northern England, Ernest Gregory, chairman of the National Teaching Committee of Northern England, met Ruth and was host to her during her visit to this city. He is a member of the National Spiritual Assembly of the British Isles. He is on the board of the Sheffield Cutlery Company, which is one of the largest cutlery companies in the world, dating as far back as Chaucer. In spite of the short notice and pouring rain, fifteen came to the meeting in Ernest's home and said repeatedly that they were so thrilled with the Message that Ruth brought from Haifa, "that no one before had ever brought them so much knowledge, power and spirit. Inasmuch as Ernest and his son had to leave early for work and left Ruth alone to do some needed writing, she cleaned the whole house for them from

top to bottom, put fresh flowers everywhere and then took the five o'clock train for.....

Dick Blackwell, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly, and Marcel Mickaeloff, chairman of the Local Spiritual Assembly, met Ruth, took her to dinner, for a conference and to the Baha'i Center, where she spoke on "High Lights of Haifa". She got a warm response. Afterwards a beautiful service in "Commemoration of the Ascention of the Bab". It being a Holy Day "Mickey" took off from work to take a tape recording of Ruth's talks, and to take her about this smokey industrial city. noted for its leather works and clothing manufacturing. Ruth stayed in the Great Northern Hotel, which reminded her of Chicago. On Friday morning she spoke to a young mothers' meeting in the home of Dick and Vida Backwell, who took her to the bus for the wool manufacturing city of ......

Mr. & Mrs. Martius Hall took Ruth to their home for the birthday party given for their little son and the meeting of their little group which was so appreciative that Ruth, this American teacher had come to them to bring them the messages from the Guardian. They said no other American had made such an effort to come to them. At midnight the doorbell rang and in walked Mickey with his little wife Bettie, who had just arrived in Leeds, from Edinburg, where she had been pioneering. Mickey put her in his car and speeded to Bradford to see Ruth before she left, early next morning for .......

Mrs. Getta Chaplin met Ruth at the bus in Manchester and took her to their big home in this lovely suburb. She had a few friends in to meet Ruth in the evening. It was the first time an American teacher ever had been to fine old residential city. It was a happy occasion, sharing the spirit of Haifa with these hungry souls. Getta's adopted son David Mumford, the next day escorted Ruth to Manchester and Blackpool.....

At 4:00 p.m. they arrived at the home of Alice and Tom Curwen, sister of Prue George. There was such a warm welcome after many years of correspondence. Fifteen came, ten of whom were non- Baha'is, who asked questions most of the night and begged Ruth to remain to help teach in this flourishing sea side resort of 100,000. There are only four Baha'is there.

Alice Curwen took Ruth to see a bit of this great seaport city, one of the greatest in the world, with its one hundred or more docks and almost as many dry docks. Ships from all over the world. The 1st important steam railroad in the world operated between Liverpool and Manchester in 1830, before the Bab made His declaration. The largest vehicular tunnel in the world, forty four feet wide and two miles long is in Liverpool. A hugh Cathedral and many massive buildings, some of which were badly bombed during the war. Gladys Prichard met Ruth at the station and took her to her home for supper and the night. There is a small community of only thirteen, some of whom were away. After the Feast of Kalimat — Words, Ruth spoke of the "Spirit of Haifa". They said: "We have never had a meeting like this before, with so much spirit and knowledge and power from our Guardian! It is heavenly! Can't you stay and help teach in England?" they said "It is the coldest summer in years, but our hearts are warmed." Ruth was happy to help the many who came to her with their problems, until 5:00 p.m. when she took the train for.....

Getta Chaplin and Mr. Joseph met Ruth at the train and took her to a Jewish Kosher dinner and to the Baha'i Center, where she received a warm welcome. After the Feast of Kalimat — Words, they invited Ruth to speak about Haifa and the Guardian. They said that seldom had they received such clear direction and so much spirit from the Guardian, and urged her to remain and teach in the British Isles were teaching is so much needed. Ruth and others who wished to interview her. The Manchester Daily Express put it in one of the best articles on the Faith that they had published for a long time, they said. Manchester, the fourth largest city in the British Isles, is connected with the Irish Sea by the famous Manchester Ship Canal. It is a great smokey, busy manufacturing city that was badly bombed during the war.

Getta Chaplin had a luncheon and Fireside for Ruth who helped her to start a fireside of her own to meet regularly. Then she took Ruth to speak in the evening in .....

"The Station of the Guardianship and His Message" was the topic in the Baha'i Center. There was an enthusiastic response, for the English people, who have been called "unresponsive". They said thay had 'now a greater understanding and appreciation of Guardianship,' and that they can truly say "Thank God! The world at least has a Guardian!"

Getta took Ruth back to her home for a midnight feast, and more conferences, and questions about the Faith, and prayers together with the family. Mr. Lee called for her at 7:30 the next morning to take her to the train for London.

It was a beautiful day with a fine train winding through lovely gardens, woods and fields. Everything made a charming scene in colourful paintings. Marina Nazar met Ruth at 1:15 in London and took her to the Nazar home, where a group was awaiting her return. Then in the evening to the Baha'i Center in the heart of London, where she spoke of "From Adam to Atom". Philip Hainsworth just returned after three years in Kampala, Uganda, and remembered Ruth when she returned from Haifa on her first trip when she gave the messages from the Guardian to the N.S.A. of the British Isles. Kathleen Narnell came from Belfast, Beryl de Gruchy came from Reading, England, and Dorothy Wecktol from San Francisco. It was a most happy reunion!

GOLDERS GREEN, ENGLAND July 16, 1954

Ashier and Mariana Nazar took Ruth to meet the friends and their neighbors and to speak in the Fireside of Mr. & Mrs. Roddie and Debbie Leedham. Brigetta Hanelblatt came way from the Shetland Isles where Ruth was planning to go at the request of the Guardian, although it seemed impossible. "The Mountain came to Muhammed" Phillip Hainsworth had just bought a new car and said that he would drive Brigetta, Dorothy Becktol and Ruth to the British summer School if they could meet him in Whimbottom in South London. He said "You have something to give that they need very much."

It was an all day drive past picturesque frams and gardens and huge flowering hedges and quaint villages. Phillip drove John Ferraby, Brigette and Ruth to Stonehenge, which is most interesting, although little is known of these mysterious ancient ruins. After a twelve hour ride they arrived at Exeter in time for the "United Feast" in the lounge of the Women's University of Oxford University in this quaint old city.

The Guardian had said "I hope you can teach in many Summer Schools whenever possible. You have something to give them that they need." The British Baha'i Summer School Committee has asked Ruth to teach during the two weeks sessions. Room and board were arranged for all registered in the University buildings as it was the holiday time for the University. The daily schedule was: 7:00 a.m. rising bell; 8:00 prayer service; 8:30 breakfast. First morning class 9:30 to 11:00; 11:30 coffee break; 11:30 to 12:30 Course on Islam. 1:00 p.m. dinner with different partners each day; 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. rest and recreation; 4:00 p.m. afternoon tea; 5:30 to 6:30 "Relief in Action" course. 7:00 p.m. supper; 8:00 to 9:00 "The Global Crusade Course." 10:00 p.m. tea in the lounge; 11:00 prayers in Ruth's room. More and more came each night until twenty four crowded into her little room for prayer and said "It is a bit of heaven, room 19 on the second floor."

There were fine arrangements for the Summer School, in the spacious lounges, with fine furniture, excellent meals, beautiful gardens and lawns, and lovely people with happy unified hearts. The location is ten miles from the sea. At 8:00 p.m. Ruth gave her first talk on "Messages from the Guardian" which was warmly received.

Ruth had been invited to speak in Torquay on the sea shore, Phillip drove her with Lady Hornell and Joan Campbell through the most charming country, the Riberia of England, one of the choice garden spots of the world. The rambling cities, the hamlets, and her fuscia hedges, rose trees, rock and cliff gardens and flowering vines climbing gracefully everywhere! Ruth spoke in the Baha'i Center and in a Fireside and at a fish dinner, Phillip drove them up and down an almost perpendicular road with deep ravines, to a quaint place on the shore. Only the prayers enabled them to arrive back safely.

The main lectures were given by Betty Reed today on, "The Center of the Convent", and Ruth Moffett on "Civilization's Path of Progress." They also taught the classes for the day. New friends arrived form various cities and countries, with a warm welcome.

July 23 & 24: Dick blackwell gave an excellent synthesis on "The Formative Age." Dr. Grossman, Hand of the Cause, spoke with much spiritual power on "The Station of the Guardianship." Phillip Hainsworth on "Progress in Africa", and Ruth Moffett on "The Global Crusade", the Greatest Drama of Human History". There was a beautiful spirit.

July 24: This was an unusual Summer School with a Hand of the Cause present, most of the members of the N.S.A., and two members of the Auxiliary Board. Ruth's lecture, by request was "Giving — The Channel of the Spirit".

July 25: A car load of the friends went with Ruth again to Torquay to the struggling group where they were warmly received. During Ruth's lecture Dorothy Whittington said, "For

the first time I am convinced. I see now the great historic plan of God. Of course it would have to include Baha'u'llah and His Message to mankind. I shall help to spread this great truth, as out beloved Guardian instructed me."

Today Ruth spoke twice on "The Greatness, The Incomparable Greatness of This Revelation", and at 12:30 on "The New Spirit in the Holy Land." There was an eager response. The poetry evening by David Hoffman was beautiful!

Such a beautiful day! Sunshine, roses, happy spirits everywhere! Wonderful classes and discussions on the subject of 'The Greatness, the Incomparable Greatness of This Revelation". Ruth had a long conference with Dr. Grossman, Hand, who arrived to-day and who wished to continue some of the subjects he had discussed with Ruth, when she was a guest in their home in Nechergemund. He has much knowledge and such a warm, understanding spirit. St. Barbe Baker showed films of his remarkable trip through the Sahara Desert and Phillip Hainsworth his films of South Africa. There was a reception for all of the out- of-the-country guests. The friends took turns asking Ruth questions, and she had a long conference with St. Barbe Baker and he remembered when Ruth and her husband had entertained him in Chicago and wrote the letter of introduction for him to meet the Guardian.

Dr. Ernest Miller, Dr. Grossman, Adib Taherzadeh, and Ruth Moffett were the teachers for the day with classes and discussions and conferences. Ruth was asked to speak on the latest Message from our Guardian. Two Baha'is arrived way from Tasmania. The N.S.A. of the British Isles spoke in the evening on "The Rise of the Baha'i World Center", and "New World Institutions." It was very good. It is a great privilege to work with a Hand of the Cause, most of the members of the N.S.A., two members of the Board and six pilgrims who had been in Haifa recently, and a number of non-Baha'i distinguished guests.

Between classes there was a tour through this 'quaint old English town of culture'. Exeter is a Parliamentary borough on the Exe River, one hundred, seventy two miles from London. In 800 A.D. it was an important trade center with the Greeks and Phonicians. The city has a history of many wars and turbulent times. The great cathedral, built in 1100 A.D. is famed for its beauty of design and the richness of its decorations. The architectural symetry and the decorative harmony of the building are perhaps sunsurpassed in England. There are interesting old ruins from the time of William The Conqueror, the rock- hewn wine vaults, lovely old-fashioned gardens and the fine Exeter Woman's University College which is a branch of Oxford University. The class of John Ferraby on "The Will and Testament" was very fine. The drama by Ruhiyyih Khanum "How to be and How not to be!" was presented in the evening with much fun. Phillip was Mr. Boom and Ruth was chairman of the correct Assembly. After the drama there was a dress ball with prizes. Ruth dressed as Ruth the Gleaner. There were prayers each night at midnight in her room and they said "It is a bit of heaven".

"A New Race of Men" was an unusually fine talk given by Louis Ross Infield. St. Barbe Baker and Ruth had the classes for the day. The class said that Ruth had brought to them some so the Spirit of Haifa and it permeats the whole school". This evening the Baha'i wedding service of a young Baha'i couple took place and it was very impressive. Everyone beginning to feel sad, for the next day would be the last of this wonderful Summer School.

"The Earth is the Lord's" brought tears to the eyes as dear Hasan Balyuzi gave one of the last talks. He remembered seeing Ruth in Bejrut College in 1927, on the way from the Guardian then also. Ruth made arrangements with Cooks Travel Bureau to go to fourteen other cities by urgent request. Phillip and Ruth helped five lovely souls to become convinced and to make their declaration before leaving! The Feast of Perfection was the crowning event before closing the school, especially when the five announced their declaration! Ruth having taught in all of the Summer Schools in the U.S. and Canada said that in some ways the British Summer School seems most mature. The classes were thought- provoking, expansive, and very inspiring, full of knowledge. The teachers were able, with fine backgrounds and beautiful spirit.

Ruth completed arrangements to go to fourteen other cities in the British Isles. There were many sad farewells in parting with the friends who had studied, worked and prayed together during this wonderful Summer School. It was a great privilege to teach in this school and to also receive the inspiration, when among those present and assisting were, all the members of the N.S.A., a Hand of the Cause, two members of the Board, six of the friends who had also been in Haifa, several national teachers and friends from many countries. All of these made a wonderful spirit of eternal value, which will always be remembered.

Aileen Beals and Ruth were driven to Bournemouth by Bill Conkling, a beautiful drive, and were guests in the home of Aileen's friend. They were glad to retire after the very intensive two weeks in Exeter and the long drive to....

It was Sunday and the famous Bank Holliday Week End, when everyone all over England goes away from home for a joyous time somewhere. Roads were full, restaurants and beaches crowded in spite of the rain. Bournemouth is a large resort city, situated one hundred sixteen miles west of London on Poole Bay, and has about one hundred thousand inhabitants and seems to be a favorite health resort that is becoming industrialized. Aileen spent the day with her sons, and Bill Conkling and Blanche Powles took care of Ruth for the day, she answered hundreds of their questions. In the evening Ruth spoke in the Baha'i Center on Messages from the Guardian and helped in the observance of the Feast of Kamam — Perfection. The next day, she and Aileen made calls on a number of her friends who could not attend a lecture. It was too bad it was such a rainy weekend for the Holliday as they do not have many hollidays of sunny days in the British Isles.

Bill drove Aileen and Ruth to Bristol where they had dinner and Ruth spoke on "The New Spirit in the Holy Land" twice in the Gregory

home, and "From Adam to Atom", for which there was a fine response, and urgent request to come again. Ruth spent the night in Aileen's boarding house and gave the glad Message to several of the boarders. Called on Vicar Davis of the United Church, some of Aileen's friends and talked with one who became convinced and said she would make her declaration! Then we took the train for Cardiff, Wales....

They had dinner and Ruth gave a lecture in the home of Joan Giddings who is pioneering from England in Cardiff. She has a lovely enthusiastic, sincere spirit and is eager to form an Assembly in this difficult spot. Cardiff is one of the most important ports in the United Kingdom with about ten miles of docks and quays, and outlet for the vast mineral wealth of that region. Cardiff has a population of well over two hundred thousand, with much smoke and heavy fog. The University College of South Wales is located here. Aileen and Ruth did what they could to help Joan in the two days that they could be there, then took the train back to Bristol, Where Aileen left Ruth, who went alone to.....

Shamoa Sedaghat and Doreen Geary met Ruth and took her to the latter's home, and although the grandfather had died in the home a few hours before they wanted Ruth as their guest, and did all they could for her, even though they were of a different faith; Catholic. She had prayers for the grandfather, and of course would take no renumeration for the prayer, which surprised them and for which they were greatful. Ruth gave a public lecture in Memorial Hall in the evening. Phil Hainsworth from Africa, brought seven in his little car from London, acted as chairman and helped Ruth answer questions until after midnight. Brighton is fifty one miles straight south of South London, and is called 'London by the Sea'. It is one of the most popular resorts, a city of one hundred fifty thousand population with a sea-wall four miles long which forms a fine promenade called "The Front". The museums, art galleries and acquarium are world famous. We pray that a strong Community may be established here. On August 5, every half hour and hour there were interviews all day until Ruth had to leave without time for lunch or supper. One lovely soul made her declaration and another who had left the Cause said she would write her letter for reinstatement, as Ruth had made everything so clear and convincing! Then Ruth hurriedly caught the train for London.

Dorothy Becktol and Phillip Hainsworth met Ruth and took her to dinner and to the Baha'i Center where she and Hasan Balyuzi were the speakers. However, there were so many strangers, she was asked to reserve her talk of Haifa and the Guardian until next Monday and to speak on a more general subject this evening. It was such a surprise when Nancy Campbell of Hamilton Ontario walked in, and later Lady Hornell from Belfast Ireland! It was an inspiration to be with and hear dear Hasan Balyuzi who has so much light of the Spirit.

Phillip and Ruth spoke in Bobbie Needham's home to an interested group who asked many questions and there was a fine discussion. Mr. Nazar, always so willing to help, drove us there and back to his home after midenight. One lady said "This is that for which I have been looking all my life. At last I found it. I am so greatful."

Lady Hornell came to the Nazar home to spend the day helping serve the afternoon tea to the many who dropped in to have interviews with Ruth, and to help Ruth put the rose and Jasamine petals from the Holy Shrines in little envelopes to give to the friends. These are especially precious because they were on the Threshold of the Shrine of Baha'u'llah during the entire night of the Commemoration of His Ascension when the beloved Guardian chanted much of the night. Mr. Nazar's brother arrived from Iran and there was another party for him. The two brothers told many beautiful Persian stories of the Faith in the early days.

Sunday it poured all day, a regular English downpour, but the light shone brightly in the ?Nazar home! A number braved the storm to learn more of the Messages from our Guardian.

Hasan Balyuzi was chairman for Ruth as she spoke in the Baha'i Center about Guardianship, his words and the spirit of Haifa. She spoke for two hours with a breif break between, when she had finished the friends sat silent for almost ten minutes, then said, "You have brought the real spirit of Haifa!" "We could sit all night as that spirit lifts us out of this world." "How can we thank you enough?"

At the Royal Sabena Air Lines Office, the officers triend to get Ruth to pay $120.00 more on her return ticket back to New York. She asked to see the general manager of the air lines, Mr. Watrin and presented the letter written by Dr. George Stirn of the Global

Air Lines of Haifa, in which he stated that Mrs. Moffett was traveling through Europe at the request of the International Baha'i Council, and asked that every courtesy possible be extended to her. He asked many questions about Baha'i and the International Councel, and arranged her ticket to return to America from Manchester without having to go back to Brussels, without added cost, and wrote a letter to use in every city she visited, asking for extended kindness. He was most gracious. He arranged for Flight 545 leaving Manchester England at 11:00 p.m., August 30, arriving in New York, Idlewild Airport, Tuesday, 9:20 a.m. August 31.

Marina Nazar helped Ruth breathlessly to the Marlesborouth Station to take the train to the home of David and Marian Hoffman. It was a beautiful ride through the picturesque English villages to the farm home of David and Marian, where Ruth had dinner with them and their two lovely children, and a fine visit. David then took Ruth to Oxford, to Derbeyshire House and to meet all the Baha'is in that region and to speak on "Our Guardian Speaks". There was a warm spirit and many questions. Jean Campbell and the other English friends were most gracious and eager for every word from our beloved Guardian.

Mariann Hoffman took Ruth, the next day, all over Oxford University, made up of about twenty colleges, Baliol College where our Guardian studied was one. We saw the room where he had studied over a tiny court. We went to the Unitarian Church Building on the campus, where 'Abdu'l-Baha spoke in 1912, and had heavenly prayers together there. Few cities have been blessed by the presence of both 'Abdu'l-Baha and the Guardian as has Oxford and London. Ruth felt the radiance of Their Spirit there. Ruth spoken on Jean Campbell's sun porch in the eve. Susanne Christoflow of Paris, St. Barbe Baker's secretary, came to stay with Ruth and became confirmed.

Susanne Christoflow, the brilliant girl from Paris, in the publishing business there, while staying with Ruth in Oxford, became aflame with the Baha'i Spirit, said "Nothing has ever moved me so into desire to serve! What can I do?" She said she would go back to Paris and serve where the need is so great. She put Ruth on the train for Blackburn. ruth had to change trains four times carrying her own luggage over and under tracks in the rain, and arrived in Manchester instead of Blackburn, all due to inefficiency in the transportation system and its handling. Trudi Scott had to go to Manchester to meet Ruth and take her to her tiny room in blackburn where thay had four precios days together. She had pioneered there for years with little results and was quite discouraged. The two girls prayed much and went to work. She borrowed a typewriter from an office downstairs and helped Ruth write twenty letter and material to help. They made several important contacts, inviting them to the last evening lecture "From Adam to Atom", to which fifteen came to Trudi's little workshop for a heavenly experience. Mrs. Warring made her declaration! and one daughter just returned from South Africa, and the other daughter married to a Chinese, became very interested. They said "These are the most mind-expanding and soul stirring talks I have ever heard May you bless others as you have blessed us!"

Trudi and Ruth went to Liverpool together, typing on a rented typewriter enroute, in the crowded, smelly coach, in a typical English downpour, glad to be out of smoky, blackened Balckburn for a time. It is one of the largest manufacturing cities of England with a population of about one hundred thirty thousand, with a large cotton machinery output.

Gladys Prichard, chairman of the L.S.A. of Liverpool met the girls at 2:40 p.m. taking them to the noted Tibet exhibition in the Museum, and then to the Parliament building to see the beautiful mosaic floor which is uncovered only once in twenty years. Very beautiful! In Gladys' home, the girls typed until time for the potluck dinner and the evening lecture by Ruth with all that she could pack in about the station and mission of the Guardian.

Again and again they said, "She has brought the real spirit of the Shrines to us!" They urged her to remain in Liverpool, which is one of the greatest trading centers of the world and on one of the largest Atlantic seaports. It has over one hundred fifty docks and more than fifty dry docks, and one of the largest vehicular tunnels in the world; fourty four feet in diameter and two miles long. It has one of the largest merchant fleets in the world. The first important steam railroad in the world was opened between Liverpool and Manchester in 1830, before the time of the Declaration of the Bab. It is an interesting and important city, in which to spread the glad Message. The two who made their declaration during the Summer School came and added their spirit of happiness. Dr. Miller took Ruth and the whole bunch to the ship to speed her on her way to Dublin, but urged her to return and to remain longer, saying "Bless you!"

At 11:00 p.m. the ship across the Irish Sea went through three locks as the tide went out. Ruth sat on the deck until long after midnight watching the strange proceddings. She gave the message to a young man going to Dublin who asked the urpose of her visit. At dawn a cabin boy brought her a cup of tea and another as the ship made ready to dock in Dublin. There was Adib Taberzadeh to meet her. He took her to their home for breakfat, then phoned Brian Townshend that Mrs. Ruth Moffett had arrived. He came at once to welcome her mosr warmly. Dr. George Townshend hearing the name of Ruth Moffett over the phone, jumped up out of bed, upseting a pot of tea amid the protests of his wife, for he had been under doctor's care for six weeks, and in bed a month, and insisted that he speak with Mrs. Moffett personally. He invited her to tea with him that afternoon, that he and his daughter, Una, would call for her at 2:00 p.m. Ruth protested because of his illness, but he would not take 'no". At 2:00 p.m. Una drove up with her father and took Ruth to the Singing Kettle, where he ordered the table, the tea, the cinnamon-toast and orange marmelade, and himself served the tea as an English gentleman, even though he was very weak and his hands trembled. His face was thin and drawn, but his eyes were beautiful and soulful. His spirit had an amazing eagerness and poise, and light, and a keen desire for every word about the Guardian. Ruth gave him the message the Guardian asked her to give him, part of which was to finish his book and get it published as soon as possible, that it is very important for the Christian world, especially at this time. He was delighted to receive the message and said that he had not been able to write for a long time and had hdad little inspiration, as he had been so ill. At the Summer School Brian had insisted that Ruth give him the Guardian's message herself, as that might be the spark to set him aflame again. Therefore Ruth made the extra effort and expense to go there. At the tea table they were soon telling stories and he chuckled more and more until he suddenly broke out in a hearty laugh. Una whispered to Ruth "I have not seen father laugh like that in five years." Words cannot describe the joy to all three on that memorable tea!

Ruth spoke each evening and some afternoons in the home of Adib and Zarina Taberzadeh. They said that Ruth was the only one that they had heard give the Message in Dublin in the four years that they had lived there. Dr. Townshend was present every time but one, drinking in every word. Ruth repeatedly said she should be sitting at his feet. He looked very frail and feeble, but each time she spoke about the Guardian he sat bolt upright, fearing he might miss a single word. none of the family had ever been in Haifa. Baha'i teahers had not worked, he said, in Dublin.

The work and spirit of Dr. Townshend is historic. He is the first distinguished ecclesiastic to step out of a great ecclesiastical position of wealth and influence, into a little-known Faith. He stepped out of a twenty-four room house in an eleven acre estate, with many servants into a small house which the N.S.A. of the british Isles rented for him, where Mrs. Townshend has to do all the cooking, baking, washing, ironing, shopping etc., never having done it before in her life. He stepped out of a life of great power and affluence, into a life of poverty and persecution. He wrote a masterly letter of resignation to the ecclesiastics, explaining the faith and the cause of his resignation. Not one responded. He wrote his regrets about their dearness to Shoghi Effendi, who replied "How can

you expect tombs to respond to your letter?" Una, Brian and Adib took Ruth to St. Patricks Cathedral, founded in 1890, and they sat in the very pew in which brian sat spell-bound when his father gave the Message of Baha'u'llah for the first time in that immense Cathedral. Only the elder dean said "That sermon is a masterpiece". He did not understand why.

Dublin was surely blessed by the spirit of this great soul. It is the capital of the Irish Free State and has numerous huge cathedrals, churches, castles, monuments, and monasteries. The National museum contains the finest collection of ancient gold ornaments in the world. Ruth went to Trinity College, not for four years, but for a day! It is really the University of Dublin. If Ruth could have remained long enough for the necessary arrangements, she could have had the opportunity to speak there in the class of Religious History. Dublin became an ecclesiastical bishopric in 1038 and an archi-episcopal city in 1152. In 1689, William III returned thanks in St. Patrick's Cathedral for the victory of Boyne. It was in an historic background such as this that Dr. George Townshend lived and caught a gleam of the Light of God through the Glory of baha'u'llah and rose to reflect that light.

Brian and Una were so happy to see the change that had come to their father saying that they had not seen him laugh and joke like this for years. He told Ruth his favorite poem was: "Adam had-um-fleas!" Then he laughed heartily. The words from our Guardian set him aflame to finish his book and get it published as soon as possible. They all begged Ruth and her husband to come and settle in Dublin, which she would gladly do, however the Guardian said at present she needed to work thoroughout America. Early the last morning Adib took her in a taxi to the quaint Irish train for Belfast, her heart filled with gratitude.

One cannot realize the beauty of this land until they go through it and see the little Irish villages, the quaint homes, gardens, lovely trees and hedges of flowers. Lady Hornell of London, mother-in-law of Hasan Balyuzi, Hand of the Cause, who gave up everything to pioneer in belfast, met Ruth and entertained her in her tiny apartment. She is so pure-hearted, they had a heavenly time together and talked almost continually for the two days and nights with her contacts, who became eager for the Spirit of Haifa. Belfast is an interesting, though difficult post, very nationalistic for the crown, and very Lutheran and conservative, with Queen's University, beautiful gardens and many monuments, and the largest linen industries of the world. Lady Hornell and the whole group took Ruth to the ship to gross the Irish See to Glasgow....

It is an interesting sight to watch the ship dock at six a.m. in one of the largest ship building ports of the world. Glasgow is next to

London the largest city in the United Kingdom, one of the greatest manufacturing and sea ports of the world. It traces its beginning to the little wooden church which St. Kentigern, apostle to the Scots, built on the banks of the Molendivar about 560 A.D. Much of its prosperity is due to the fine harbour and its position in the midst of a region abounding in rich deposits of coal, iron and other minerals.

It was here that Ada Williams came to pioneer and to spread the glad Message of Baha'u'lah. She was working in the suburb of Motherwell. A dinner and lecture in the evening in the Grand Hotel brought much inspiration and the spirit of Haifa, they said, and wish Ruth to return before going back to America. Mr. Robertson brought four from Edinburg and to drive Ruth back with them. There are only three pioneers in Glasgow, but they are winning the confidence of the people. Dear Ada Williams took care of a woman with smallpox in the Grand Hotel who had fainted in the lobby. Now the Grand Hotel cannot do enough to express their gratitude and welcome a Baha'i meeting.

James Robertson drove Nora and Marian Michaloff and Ruth 50 miles through the Scotland Highlands to the Longmine Private Hotel in Edinburgh where they found Margaret Lloud and sister recently returned from South Africa. House so full, Ruth slept on the couch in the living room, in the wee small hours. The International Music Festival is on for three weeks and people are here from all over the world, and everything focuses on that. Edinburgh is one of the great educational centers of the world, with many educational institutions, built on the seven hills, and is called the "Modern Athens." The Castle, which is three hundred feet high and accessible only onits Eastrn side, was the residence of many of the Scottish monarchs and the scene of many tragic events. It is now the gorgeous scene of the International Music Festival. One

finds historic monuments everywhere and Princess Street with its lovely gardens and flower clock that keeps time, attract people from all over the world. In 1843, one year before the Bab made His declaration, Edinburg as the religious center of Scotland, was the scene of the famous secession from the Established Church of England which ended in the formation of the Free Church of Scotland, to which today almost everyone in Scotland belongs. Mr. Robertson took Ruth to the cathedral where 'Abdu'l-Baha spoke and to the home of Mr. & Mrs. White where he stayed four days and where they had prayers.

Devoted Baha'i pioneers have come and stayed for a year at a time and still there is not an Assembly, showing how difficult it is to break through the established shell. Breakfasts, luncheons, and teas were arranged for Ruth and the public lecture in Memorial Hall. During the questions period one man said, "I have no questions for I do not believe a word she said." It was as though a ton of cold water was dashed over everyone. Ruth had to say something to rescue the situation, so she began praising the beautiful munoument of Sir Walter Scott on Princess Street, which is one of the most beautiful ones in the world, built for an individual who was not a general or a monarch. She said that she too is very prouud of it, as "Sir Walter Scott was the first cousin of my mother's mother." The cold-water-dashing man popped up and said, "You are! then I am prepared to believe every word you said!" Then he invited them all to have tea with him the next evening in the North Britain Hotel where Sir Walter Scott and the Baha'i Faith were discussed at length.

They learned how Sir Walter Scott, born in 1771 and passed on in 1823 became one of the great literary geniuses of the world, his years as an attorney, his remarkable writing and story telling ability, and his beautiful poetic soul, produced a mass of literary works unequaled by any other British writer. He discovered the historical novel. He gave to literature that encyclopedic character since exemplified later by Balsac, Dickens, Tackery, and revolutionized history as a body of dry facts. He is perhaps most loved by the Scottish people for having discovered the lost Royal stone of Scotland and returning it to them. In 1813 he was offered the poet laureateship of the British Isles, but declined because he did not wish to be limited in his ideals to write. In 1818 a baronetry was conferred upon him and King George IV knighted him for his services. It is said that he was related to King George and those gathered for tea, said that Ruth was then the 'steenth cousin of the King also?!!!

The interesting story of Sir Walter Scott by those who loved him, led to the marvelous writings of Baha'u'llah and their influence upon civilization, and the soul of man.

Throughout the years the friends could get little or no publicity in the papers, so they consulted Ruth, who said, "Abdu'l-Baha visited Edinburg and God is all powerful." She wants to know His Will. A reporter came to interview a descendent of Sir Walter Scott, and the best articles the Baha'i ever had, appeared in the Conservative Scotman. They all begged Ruth and her husband to come and settle in Scotland, to help attain the goal to which our beloved Guardian has called us. It was with regret that they all parted and Ruth took the train for Manchester.

Ruth arrived at 4:30, was taken to the Sheperd home for dinner and to speak in the Publi meeting at the Queen Hotel in the evening. friends and contacts came from many cities in Northern England, including our dear Louis Gregory from Sheffield, and Trudi Scott from Blackburn, who came to help Ruth type and do a million things before preparing to return to America. There were streams of callers and telephone calls expressing gratitude for all of her help in the british Isles, and begging her to remain longer or to return soon. Ben Scheribman just arrived from America, and learned that Ruth was leaving for America, phoned from London that he was coming to Manchester to see her, but did not say what train nor what station, and there are six stations! But the process of prayer and elimination they decided on one and were much concerned as Ben did not know anyone in England having just arrived. Crowds came from the train, but no Ben. As they turned away they heard

a "WHOA! WHOA!" and Ben came running saying "I asked 'Abdu'l-Baha to show you where to meet me and I knew that you would." The power of prayer is very convining for Ben. He helped Ruth with piles of manuscripts and letters in the Center. He said that he came all this way from London to Manchester to see Ruth for three reasons. 1: To get her wisdom and prayers for his next step, and how could he get into Russia to teach the Cause, and how he could teach there. 2: To beg her to leave Chicago as soon as possible and move to Wisconsin, Nebraska or Iowa, 3: To try and help her in return for all of the spiritual help she had been to him throughout the years. Baha'u'llah will bless him for his services.

Mr. Davis, the director of the Royal Sabena Air Lines for Northern England, invited Ruth for lunch and himself made all the arrangements for her departure. Everyone was most kind and did all that they could for her. The last lecture in the Baha'i Center was sad but heartwarming as she gave them "Pearls of Wisdom from the Guardian and the Greatest Holy Leaf." They said that it was one of the most stirring they had ever had. Although it was pouring rain, most of those present went to the air port for a last fare-thee-well. It was a never to be forgotten sight as Ruth expressed her gratitude, kissed them all and told them that she loved them with all her heart, and that high above the clouds she would pray that they may all become shinging stars in the Kingdom of Baha'u'llah! Mr. Davis himself escorted her onto the plane for the thrilling overseas flight. God bless them each one!

Royal Sabena Flight 545 Transatlantic was on its way! There was a sumptuous dinner at midnight in the dining room at the airport in Shannon, Erin, then sixty passengers strapped in their seat belts, in the big plane, soared high in the air for the oceanic flight. The plane rose to tewnty thousand feet high. It was full moon and the moonlight reflected on the white clouds below, made it look like a fairyland and seem like a world celestial that is if one did not think of Davie Jones Locker far below! "The heavens declare the Glory of God (Baha'u'llah). The firmament showeth His handiwork. Day unto day uttereth speech. Night unto night showeth knowledge. There is no place where their voice is not heard." Baha'u'llah wrote "The cause of the creation of all contingent beings has been love.. I was a hidden treasure and lived to be known." These are some of the thoughts upon which Ruth meditated during that memorable flight. In the midst of the etheric moonlight beauty, there was an ominous feeling and Ruth prayed all of that night.

It was dawn. After the beautiful, impressive, successful flight, the big plane landed in the bleak, windy airport of Gander, Newfoundland. The wind was so strong, it was difficult to get the plane on its way again. It flew over vast areas of grass and trees partly submerged, and barren islands. The plane, tipped, dipped, and rolled.

The Royal Sabena Transatlantic plane, flight 545 enroute from Gander, Newfoundland, was buffeted about like a feather. It pitched, rolled, swayed and dropped into airpockets as though the bottom had dropped out of the world. Everyone was sick, even the stewards. Although Ruth had flown a great deal and had had experiences, never had there been one as frightening as this. She had prayed all night long for the guidance of the two pilots, now she prayed most earnestly and continuouosly for them, with the great responsibility of all these passengers and crew, that all could land safely, God willing. After six hours of this sickening, terrifying experience, the plane arrived at Idlewild airport in New York and learned that it had been one of the most destructive along the coast of New England. It was the only transatlantic plane to arrive. A number of ships and planes were lost at sea in that dreadful hurricane. The pilots received special honours for their courage and skill. Ruth breathed a prayer of gratitude, and wishes she could tell them that it was the powerful prayers of Baha'u'llah that saved them.

You can imagine the joy with which she greeted Ludmila Von Sombeck who was waiting for her at the airport, as everything had been grounded because of the hurricane, there were no taxis, limosines, and the great airport was almost deserted. She had invited Ruth and Robert to be guests in their home. It was a happy occaison for them all! "Praise be to God the Lord of all the worlds!"

There were luncheons and Firesides and a lecture each evening during the following busy days. The friends were eager for the message from our beloved Guardian, but not as eager as the friends in Europe, nor was there the same spirit, of sacrifice and dedication, broadly speaking. Ruth spoke in a large Youth Meeting in New York City which was enthusiastically received and discussed. She also spoke in the Baha'i Center in New York, and in the home of Carrie Kinney. Many enjoyed Ruth's husband's humor and stories until he returned to Washington, D.C. There was a conference with some officers of the U.N. and an interesting tour through the buildings. Ruth was one of the U.N. fields lecturers, having witnessed the birth of the U.N. Charter and attended several U.N. Conferences.

These days were filled with Firesides, luncheons, teas, and many conferences. Ruth lectured in The Cabin, West Englewood on Sunday evening September 5th. Many said "You have brought the true spirit of the Shrines, and are so grateful." "You have brought so much more than most pilgrims!" "You have made us long to go there as never before." Bill de Froge kidnapped Ruth to take her to their home for Labor Day Weekend, to meet their contacts and to talk science with their youn son, in Harrington Park. In New York City, Ruth had lunch with Norman Cousins, who was much interested in her trip to Haifa and asked many questions about the Guardian. He is writing a new book on "Immortality" and asked Ruth some of the Baha'i answers on the subject, after which Bill de Forge took her to the Adler Planetarium for the lecture and to get certain data. She was a guest in Curtis and Harriet Kelsey's home, she gave several lectures and tape recordings of her Pilgrimage. Ruth was guest of Alice Morse in Bloomfield, spoke in the Arthur and Joiec Block home in Gloster, and in the home of Vaffa Kinney in River Edge. All were eager to hear the latest messages from our Guardian.

Curtiss Kelsey and Ruth Moffett were the speakers at the New England Area Conference held on the big lawn of Agnes Eades home in Weat Haven. She told the Conference that it was the talk and the spirit that she heard Ruth Moffett give years ago in the Emma Rice home that confirmed her. She was surprised to find another of her "children" there, Joshua Green of Port Antonio, Jamaica, and the Stones from Vermont., and Jean Silver from Cuba etc. Ruhanguiz Bolles kidnapped Ruth, taking her home to Washington, Conn. for two days, which were filled with calls on her close friends and contacts. Her son Randolph took them to have a fine fish dinner and to call on several of their friends to tell them about Haifa and the Guardian. Ruth helped them save their home from a bush fire, then went to Danbury to have dinner with the friends and to take the train for.....

Left home, Chicago, May 17, returned home September 17. The greatest four months of ruth's life. Every minute full. All praise and glory be to Baha'u'llah! Ya-Baha'ol-Abha!

[On this last page of Ruth's pilgrim's notes, she quotes Baha'u'llah from The Epistle to the Son of the Wolf , pp. 176-179 regarding Akka; followed by a quote of Baha'u'llah fromThe Advent of Divine Justice p. 19. and then ends with the following:]

May we all become bigger, more radiant lumps to leaven the peoples of the world so that the reality of these pure souls may exercise their influence upon all created things!

ALLAH'U'ABHA!

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Jump to:

• PART 1. - Brightening Horizons of Israel
• PART 2. - Our Guardian Speaks
• PART 3. - After Glow of Haifa