Mirror of Charm and Beauty — Page 83
become wet with tears. Among those who have taken the pledge of bai'at at my hand, I see thousands who have worked such a transformation in themselves that I find they are much better than the disciples of Moses who flocked round him in his lifetime; on their faces I find the light and strength of faith which characterised the blessed companions of the Holy prophet Muhammad. I perceive that the progress achieved by my followers in righteousness, and the capacity for good works, is such that it is a miracle in itself. There are thousands who are ready to render the supremest sacrifice. If they be called upon to yield everything they have in the way of material goods, they would not hesitate even for a moment. But, all the same, I constantly keep exhorting them to rise higher and ever higher, while I refrain from talking about their virtues, even though at heart I am happy in this behalf" (Alhakm, No. IV, pages 16, 17). 83