Life of Ahmad — Page 751
as BISHOP OF LAHORE AND ISLAM 751 respectability among his own co-religionists and is moreover honoured for his position and learning. I love him though I do not like his doctrines, but my hatred towards these doctrines extends only so far as the attributes of God are ascribed to human beings and human faults and weaknesses to the Lord of the universe. I am not averse to meeting his Lordship in a friendly way for it is possible that either party may reap some advantage from the other, as the seed of sincerity must bear fruit. It is the first requisite in the performance of a man’s duties as a reformer or preacher that he should receive those who hold views differing from his own in the most cordial and cheerful manner. In truth, I would not only be departing from my functions as a reformer but dealing at the same time a death-blow to all moral laws if I regard as my enemies persons who deserve compassion for having unfortunately fallen into error. Such a step on my part would only deprive a large majority of those noble and holy truths which it is my duty to preach to all. "' And further added: 'Nobody can do any good to a person whom he regards as his enemy, but I say truly that if ever an opportunity offers itself when I find it in my power to do both good and evil to his Lordship, I will do him such good that will surprise the world. The power to call people to the path of