The whole province of Khurásán was in those days [1848] in
the throes of a violent agitation. The activities which Quddús and Mullá Husayn
had initiated, their zeal, their courage, their outspoken language, had aroused
the people from their lethargy, had kindled in the hearts of some the noblest
sentiments of faith and devotion, and had provoked in the breasts of others the
instincts of passionate fanaticism and malice. A multitude of seekers
constantly poured from every direction into Mashhad, eagerly sought the
residence of Mullá Husayn, and through him were ushered into the presence of
Quddús.
Their numbers soon swelled to such proportions as to excite
the apprehension of the authorities. The chief constable viewed with concern
and dismay the crowds of agitated people who streamed unceasingly into every
quarter of the holy City [Mashhad]. In his desire to assert his rights,
intimidate Mullá Husayn, and induce him to curtail the scope of his activities,
he issued orders to arrest immediately the latter’s special attendant, whose
name was Hasan, and subject him to cruel and shameful treatment. They pierced
his nose, passed a cord through the incision, and with this halter led and
paraded him through the streets.
Mullá Husayn was in the presence of Quddús when the news of
the disgraceful affliction that had befallen his servant reached him. Fearing
lest this sad intelligence might grieve the heart of his beloved chief, he
arose and quietly retired. His companions soon gathered round him, expressed
their indignation at this outrageous assault upon so innocent a follower of
their Faith, and urged him to avenge the insult. Mullá Husayn tried to appease
their anger. “Let not,” he pleaded, “the indignity that has befallen Hasan
afflict and disturb you, for Husayn is still with you and will safely deliver
him back into your hands to-morrow.”
