23 February 1932
The exact date in which the Hidden Words was written you can find on the opening page of Mrs. J. E. Stannard’s translation published in Cairo. She gives a line in the Master’s own handwriting giving the date as 1274 A.H. (1857–8 A.D.). It is generally believed that the Hidden Words was dictated by Bahá’u’lláh to His secretary as He strolled on the banks of the river in Baghdád—in sections rather than all at one time.
As to the date of the Íqán, I think it can be calculated from the actual text and I have it in my papers as 1278 A.H., i.e. 1861 A.D. You will find that in the text itself. It was written in answer to questions put by a distinguished Bábí.
Letter of 16 May 1932
16 May 1932
Even though outwardly the number of the friends has not been increasing so rapidly, yet the spirit has not remained idle. The leaven of spirituality has been working, and when the time will come it will manifest itself in a sudden awakening. All that we need is a little more courage, perseverance and patience. There are many important men that are attentively watching the progress of the Faith but are reluctant to come forward and extend a helping hand. In time they will, and then we shall see the Cause of God spread by leaps and bounds....