"Qadir Bakhsh informed us that three men had declared that they would become Christians but for fear of the consequences to their families.
"8th.–Two sepoys have been set to watch my house, and a Kashmiri, whom they saw conversing with Qadir Bakhsh, was beaten and driven away.
"Began my Materia Medica class with Benjamin and Thomas, and resumed lessons with my native doctor in ophthalmic surgery. Qadir Bakhsh told me to-day that the Maharajah coins new money every two years and issues it, receiving that of the previous years at about half its value.
"11th.–Took my moonshee in the morning to-day, but fear this plan won't do, for it interferes with my study of God's Holy Word, and I must allow nothing to come between me and the words of everlasting life.
"Visited a merchant from Cabul, who had had his ribs fractured in a quarrel. Several men were in attendance, but no woman. On his arms were two massive golden rings. A man's ornaments are like banked money; on a rainy day they are pawned or sold.
"Saw the man who bakes for the English, and, noticing the dirty state of his garments, expostulated. He said he dare not wear clean clothes, for if he did, he would be thought wealthy, and more taxes would be required of him.
"Friendly and quiet discussion with some Mullahs from the city to-day. Water with Thy Holy Spirit, Lord!
"12th.–One hundred maunds of silk are produced annually in Kashmir. The mulberry tree grows very freely here, and the silk-worm is largely cultivated.
"13th.–The Resident informed me to-day that I must not have the sick people so near the sahibs' dwellings. I explained my case, and he said he would give orders at once for a house to be built or provided for my dispensary near the city. This is just what I wish. The catechist has been busy all day with inquirers about Jesus Christ and the gospel. Mr. Wade conducted worship to-day, and seven strangers attended; my pundit was one of them.
"14th.–Oh, for more of the Spirit of God, and more of the gifts of the Spirit, that I may be able to hold up Christ to this people. No fewer than seventy-four patients present to-day, and all listened to the gospel message. God bless it to them! My lithotomy case ran away this morning, so I am baulked of my operation. Heard from Dr. Gray to-day. He tells me that the Supreme Government have despatched a minute to the Maharajah of Kashmir, giving him to understand that they do not expect him to aid in the propagation of the Christian religion, but that they do expect him to remain neutral. The Resident called to-day, and asked many questions. I have made it a rule never to discuss Kashmir affairs except with those whom I know to be on the Lord's side. I listen to all that is said, but say little in reply.