BB00513: Letter to Haji Mirza Siyyid ’Ali, Khal-i-A’zam, from Kinar Takht

This humble representation is submitted unto the Qiblih of the world: that on the night of Wednesday, the nineteenth, I departed from the port of Bushihr, and, in company with Akbar—who was to enter our native town—at the station of Burazjan I heard tidings most momentous; until, upon reaching the lodging at Kanar-Takhtih, the courier-messenger arrived, and four persons likewise came, from the presence of the Rider, to an interview. Glory be to God, the Almighty, for this weighty affair!

They have confounded the Cause, and have ascribed it—God forbid!—to the august Court of him who holdeth authority, the Pivot of greatness. At those times when I was in Shiraz, from what soul among the people did I ever hear a claim of any matter on my part?

Likewise, on the ship, along the road to Mecca, there were a number of pilgrims from Shiraz—let them all be summoned: if any one confesseth such a thing, then indeed the word of those who have forged lies against God is true; let the Lord of the world pronounce His judgment.

The purport of all these passages is this: it is falsehood entire; I am not one who layeth claim unto any Cause. God willing, after my arrival in the august Presence, the Court of Justice, I shall set forth my petition.

And as for the matters to which they have alluded concerning a “book”—glory be to God—these too are all sheer untruth. In the religion of the Sacred Law, according to the legal opinion of all the divines, handwriting as such hath no authoritative standing—how much less that an alleged claimant should be made to deny or affirm!

In sum, God willing—exalted be His glory—I am hopeful through the favor of His Holiness, the Most Mighty (magnified be His station), that the slanders of men may be proved as slanders.

The honored riders—six persons—have proceeded to Bushihr, and four companions are with them. A note also reached me from their chief, from the lodging at Dalaki. Up to the present they have dealt with me with perfect affection and courtesy; thereafter as well, whatsoever is ordained shall come to pass.

Be not in any wise disquieted, for all this is but accusation, and, at the time of my appearing [before the authorities], I shall lay the truth before them. Yet do inform me of the hour of arrival.

And convey my salutations to that revered Qiblih of the world, and to those illustrious ones who have fallen into this hardship.

Dated Monday, the 24th of Jumada II, in the year 1261.