It was evident, however, that concern for the salvation of the soul was not the cause of their coming.

What they sought had reference solely to the present life.
Appropriate instruction was given, and they were advised to go home, pay their taxes (which they had not done), and do what they could to live in peace with their townsmen, and then to write to the mission.
A letter was received after a few days, stating that they had done as they were advised, and urging the visit of a missionary.

In this request they were earnestly seconded by the two brethren from the United States, who arrived at Beirut, just before the letter came.
The mission sent two of their native helpers; but these had not left Beirut before a second delegation arrived, more urgent than the first.

The native helpers were followed in May by Messrs.

Smith and Whiting, who soon saw that they had been too backward to credit the sincerity of these men.