s to him such
touching and assuring words on the occasion of the anniversary of the
passing of our beloved Master 'Abdu'l-Baha. Your words have sunk deeply
into his heart, and have imparted to it fresh encouragement and deep
comfort. What a greater satisfaction is there for him indeed than to see
the friends, and particularly his well-beloved co-workers in Germany,
unitedly and harmoniously striving to spread the glad-tidings of this New
Day of God? It is his most fervent hope and the object of his continued
supplications at the threshold of Baha'u'llah that your community which is
already functioning with such a remarkable vigour, unity and efficiency
may rapidly gain in numbers and in strength, and become a beacon of light,
the radiance of which shall gradually penetrate and envelop all the
neighbouring centers and regions.

Esslingen is not only one of the oldest centers of the Cause in Germany,
but it is actually one of its most active, prosperous and promising
communities. Your center has indeed a glorious tradition behind it, and it
is high time that you all, whether young or old, rich or poor, and no
matter how limited your resources and numbers, should unitedly endeavour
to extend and further consolidate the basis of your teaching as well as
administrative activities.

The Guardian wishes you, in particular, to make a supreme effort to widen
the scope of your teaching work, but would urge you to proceed in this, as
well as in all other fields of Baha'i service, with the utmost caution and
wisdom, so that you may not run the danger of antagonizing or even
displeasing the authorities. With this important consideration in mind,
exert all your efforts and all your resources for promoting this sacred
Cause of teaching in Esslingen and in the surrounding communities.

With warmest greetings and hearty good wishes from the Guardian,...

[From the Guardian:]

Dearly-loved friends:

I am profoundly touched by your message. I thank you from the depths of my
heart. I feel proud of you, of your perseverance, your devotion and your
loyalty. Persevere and rest assured. The Beloved is watching over you and
will continue to bless your meritorious endeavours.

Your true brother,
Shoghi

LETTER OF 17 MARCH 1937

17 March 1937

Dear Baha'i Friends:

Your message of the seventh of March is just at hand, and I wish to hasten
to thank you for it on behalf of our beloved Guardian, and to renew his
gratitude an