We met the Ladies of the Holy Household assembled in the Tea
Room, and with them two widows of martyrs to the Cause of Baha'u'llah.
Greetings and messages of love from the friends at home were given with joy;
then we heard a firm, quick step approaching the Tea-Room. No need to tell us
who! Instantly all arose, and there in the open doorway we first beheld ‘Abdu’l-Baha,
smiling a Heavenly welcome. Entering, he gave to each of us a hearty grasp of
his hand, saying in English "Good Morning!" with a motion of his hand
inviting all to be seated; inquiring as to our health; had we enjoyed restful
sleep, expressing the hope that our journey may have been made with comfort. ‘Abdu’l-Baha
then, turning to Miss Alma Knobloch, asked: "How are the German
Believers?" She replied: "They are united and harmonious and are very
firm." ‘Abdu’l-Baha then said: "Many great souls will arise in
Germany to spread the Teachings to a great extent. I have sent Tablets to the
Believers and the Assembly, and also to you. I have prayed for them. In the
time to come you will be very happy to think of them. It will give you great
joy and pleasure." Turning to Mrs. Ida Finch, he asked: "How are the
Believers in Seattle?" Mrs. Finch replied: "They are very faithful.
Some of us are united, but not all." ‘Abdu’l-Baha said: "I hope when
you return to America you will carry to them the power of uniting all." He
then inquired of Miss Fanny Knobloch the condition of the Washington Believers.
"They are well and they love each other very dearly," was her reply.
After this, messages sent by the various Friends were given, and many precious
messages for them received in return.
(Ida A. Finch, Fanny Alma Knobloch,
and Alma S. Knobloch, Akka, November 1908; ‘Flowers Culled from the Rose Garden
of Acca’)
