nection I should like to mention that the Guardian states that
the Hands of the Cause are eligible to administrative offices except those
permanently residing in Haifa and helping the Guardian in the
administrative work. Whenever the time comes when the Hands should give up
their administrative offices in order to be more free to serve under his
direction, he will inform the friends.

The convention--all Baha'i Conventions--must be held within the Ridvan
period; and he was very pleased to see that you had been able to advance
the date of your Convention without affecting its success.

As regards the question you asked, the Baha'i marriage certificate has
been accepted by the Israel Authorities. All the Baha'i properties and
imports are exempt from taxation and customs, and the status of the Faith
as a religion, recognized. At present, we are planning to clarify our
legal position with the Government, and get it on a more concrete footing.
We are not incorporated here, but there are the Palestine Branches of the
National Spiritual Assemblies of both the United States and India
incorporated here, and holding title to property.

He was very pleased to see that the Secretary is now residing at the
Hazira, as he considers this both the proper procedure, and important for
the national work.

He was very sorry to learn that you are still having so many financial
difficulties in connection with the Headquarters, and hopes that, through
the self-sacrifice of the believers, the debts can be gradually wiped out,
and funds be made available for other important forms of Baha'i activity.

He thanks you all for the expression of your loving sympathy on the
occasion of the passing of dear Mr. Maxwell. His services will long be
remembered, and he has had a very great bounty in being permitted to
design the Holy Tomb of the Bab.

He assures you all that, in his visits to the Holy Shrines, he remembers
you lovingly in his prayers, and supplicates for your guidance and the
advancement of your work....

[From the Guardian:]

Dear and valued co-workers:

From the reports and communications received, in the course of recent
months, from your assembly I have derived considerable satisfaction, as I
have noted the spirit of wholehearted dedication which has animated its
members in the discharge of the manifold duties and sacred
responsibilities which have faced them in the execution of their Plan. It
is indeed highly gratifying, and a