Praying for your spiritual advancement, Shoghi (April 18, 1930) [Letter of October 8, 1931] He (the Guardian) sincerely hopes that the translation of Dr. Esslemont’s book will proceed at a rapid pace, because no real advance can be made in the teaching work without proper literature, and this book is undoubtedly the most comprehensive exposition of the Teachings yet written. The language should, however, be worthy of the theme otherwise it would not make the necessary appeal to the educated classes. Shoghi Effendi was very pleased to hear that Keith (Ransom-Kehler) has achieved some success in Japan. The explicit promise of Bahá’u’lláh is that God’s spirit will assist all those who, with a sincere and detached heart, arise to spread the teachings. There is no reason for astonishment therefore if the teachers of the Cause find success in their work. May God’s spirit continue to sustain them. (signed by Ruhi Afnan) (in the Guardian’s handwriting) Dear and valued co-worker: I am eagerly awaiting the news of the publication in Japanese of that prized book which Dr. Esslemont has so wonderfully laboured to produce. When received it will adorn the newly-restored mansion of Bahá’u’lláh adjoining His Shrine at Bahji. May the Beloved sustain and bless your magnificent efforts. Your true brother, Shoghi (October 8, 1931) [Letter of January 25, 1932] Shoghi Effendi wishes me to acknowledge the receipt of your letter dated December 29, 1931 bearing the sad news of the death of Mr. Susumu Aibara(25) . It is surely a great loss to have a young man of his ability and standing leave the group. Our sole comfort should be in this that he is at present in a higher spiritual realm enjoying a blissful being far beyond our powers to appreciate. Shoghi Effendi hopes that the members of his family will view his passing in that light and appease their sorrows. Please convey to them all Shoghi Effendi’s sympathies. (January 25, 1932) [Letter of February 11, 1933] Shoghi Effendi wishes me to ... inform you of the safe arrival of the one hundred copies of Dr. Esslemont’s book that you sent him. The book surely looks beautiful and is fully befitting the message it conveys. The Guardian hopes that now that this task is completed the friends in Japan will make a stupendous effort to spread it throughout the country and get it to the attention of those seeking souls who are yearning to find some source of spiritual light and help to which they can turn for guidance and salvation. With such a comprehensive book at hand ready for distribution, the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh should spread in no time. The friends should become conscious of this, and, uniting their efforts, arise in an unprecedented form to spread the Teachings. (signed by Ruhi Afnan) (in the Guardian’s handwriting) Dear and much-prized co-worker: