The Message or A Cry of Anguish — Page 41
THE MESSAGE OR A CRY OF ANGUISH 41 only preferred to write its rebuttal. In respect of the three points, Syed Şahib remained in accord with me: Firstly, with regard to the death of Jesus. Secondly, when I published the announce- ment stating that the British Government has more of a claim upon our allegiance than the Sultan of Turkey, he endorsed my view and advised everyone to follow this principle. Thirdly, about this book Ummahātul-Mu'minin, namely that we should write its rebuttal instead of sending a memorial. Syed Şahib him- self wrote one by way of practical example. Alas, if Syed Şahib were alive today he would openly support my view on this issue. In any case, the course of action adopted by the late Syed Şahib is an excellent model for all the honourable Muslims to follow. Doubtless, the conduct of Syed Şāhib, namely that he thought it appropriate to write a rebuttal to Ummahātul-Mu'minin and did not send any memorial to the Government certainly testifies to my stance a testimony that he publicly bore through his prac- tical example. I have always been of the opinion that a rebuttal of the critics ought to be written with politeness, civility, rationality and wis- dom; the thought of having a sect reprimanded by the honourable Government ought to be cast out from the mind. The supporters of religion stand in great need of demonstrating high morals. It only brings disrepute to religion if its followers become provoked over every trivial matter. Remember, the editor of The Observer was either greatly deceived or intended to deceive when he wrote about me that I oppose defending against those who attack our religion. He cites my memorial in which I advised the honour- able Government to adopt one of two suggestions for banning malicious writings. Either both parties should be directed not to