CHAPTER IV.
-- Religious tolerance in Tehran -- Katie Greenfield's case -- Babi sect -- Liberal opinions -- German enterprise in Persia -- Railways in Asia Minor -- Russian road extension -- Railways to Persian frontiers -- The Karun River -- Trade development -- The Kajar dynasty -- Life titles -- Chieftainship of tribes -- Sanctuary -- The Pearl cannon.
The late Shah was always liberal and conciliatory in the treatment of his Christian subjects throughout the country, and this is a matter which, at the present time, deserves special notice.

In the history of Persia many proofs of friendly feeling towards Christians are to be found, and the sovereigns appear to have led the popular mind in the way of goodwill to them.

Shah Abbas the Great was an example of kind and considerate tolerance, and it was Shah Abbas II who said of them, 'It is for God, not for me to judge of men's consciences: and I will never interfere with what belongs to the tribunal of the Great Creator and Lord of the universe.' The Western Christian missionaries are fully protected in their mission work among the Eastern Christians in Persia on the understanding that they do not actively and directly engage in proselytizing Mohammedans.
[Illustration: ARMENIAN MOTHER AND CHILDREN] The American Presbyterian is the only mission in Tehran, and it carries on its work so smoothly and judiciously that the sensitive susceptibilities of the most fanatical Moullas are never roused nor ruffled.

They have succeeded well by never attempting too much.

They show their desire to benefit all classes and creeds, and during the severe cholera outbreak In 1892 the hospital they established in the city for the medical treatment of all comers up to the utmost extent of their accommodation and ability was a powerful and convincing proof of their good work and will.