Still their knowledge in all cases was very imperfect, and it was uncertain how well they would endure persecution.

Nearly all the members of the mission were there at different times; as also Tannus el Haddad, and Butrus el-Bistany, of the native helpers.
Meanwhile the spirit of persecution was rising.

The Greek Patriarch at Damascus became alarmed, and tidings were received that a company of horsemen was coming from Zahleh, a large nominally Christian town at the eastern foot of Lebanon, to force a recantation from the Protestants of Hasbeiya.

Mr.Smith and Butrus were there at the time.

The stony-ground hearers had fallen off; yet fifty adults were present at the preaching, and gave close attention.