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The Mu'tamid then gave orders that all the doctors should assemble and dispute with Him in one conclave, and that the discussion should be faithfully recorded without alteration by the instrumentality of his private secretary, in order that it might be sent to Tihran, and that whatever the royal edict and decree should ordain might be carried out. (10:1) The doctors, however, considering this arrangement as a weakening of the Law, did not agree, but held a conclave and wrote, "If there be doubt in the matter there is need of assembly and discussion, but as this person's disagreement with the most luminous Law is clearer than the sun therefore the best possible thing is to put in practice the sentence of the Law." (10:2) The Mu'tamid then desired to hold the assembled conference in his own presence so that the actual truth might be disclosed and hearts be at peace, but these learned doctors and honorable scholars, unwilling to bring the Perspicuous Law into contempt, did not approve discussion and controversy with a young merchant, with the exception of that most erudite sage Aqa Muhammad-Mihdi, and that eminent Platonist Mirza Hasan of Nur. So the conference terminated in questionings on certain points relating to the science of fundamental dogma, and the elucidation and analysis of the doctrines of Mulla Sadra. So, as no conclusion was arrived at by the governor from this conference, the severe sentence and harsh decision of the learned doctors was not carried out; but, anxious to abate the great anxiety quickly and prevent a public tumult effectually, he gave currency to a report that a decree had been issued ordering the Bab to be sent to Tihran in order that some decisive settlement might be arrived at, or that some courageous divine might be able to confute (Him). (10:3) He accordingly sent Him forth from Isfahan with a company of his own mounted bodyguard; but when they reached Murchih-Khar he gave secret orders for His return to Isfahan, where he afforded Him a refuge and asylum in his own roofed private quarters; and not a soul save the confidential and trusty dependents of the Mu'tamid knew aught of the Bab.
(10:4)
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