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Agreeably to this view' a letter was issued addressed to the Bab in his Majesty's own writing, and, according to the traditional account of the tenor of this letter, the epitome thereof is this: (After the titles) "Since the royal train is on the verge of departure from Tihran, to meet in a befitting manner is impossible. Do you go to Maku and there abide and rest for a while, engaged in praying for our victorious state; and we have arranged that under all circumstances they shall show you attention and respect. When we return from travel we will summon you specially." (12:1) After this they sent Him off with several mounted guards (amongst them Muhammad Big, the courier) to Tabriz and Maku. (12:2) Besides this the followers of the Bab recount certain messages conveyed (from Him) by the instrumentality of Muhammad Big (amongst which was a promise to heal the foot of the late king, but on condition of an interview, and the suppression of the tyranny of the majority), and the Prime Minister's prevention of the conveyance of these letters to the Royal Presence. For he himself laid claim to be a spiritual guide and was prepared to perform the functions of religious directorship. But others deny these accounts. (12:3) At all ''''events in the course of the journey He wrote a letter to the Prime Minister saying, "You summoned Me from Isfahan to meet the doctors and for the attainment of a decisive settlement. What has happened now that this excellent intention has been changed for Maku and Tabriz?" (12:4) Although He remained forty days in the city of Tabriz the learned doctors did not condescend to approach Him and did not deem it right to meet Him. Then they sent Him off to the Castle of Maku, and for nine months lodged Him in the inaccessible castle which is situated on the summit of that lofty mountain. And 'Ali Khan of Maku, because of his excessive love for the family of the Prophet, paid Him such attention as was possible, and gave permission (to some persons) to converse with Him.
(12:5)
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