Thornton Chase Notes:
1910-1912
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YR 1910
T. Chase to Helen Goodall and Ella Cooper
copy 82 San Francisco archives 3 p. Los Ang., 9 Jan. 1910
Mr. Mill's pilgrim's notes against organization of the Faith; Chase replies.
"It was an idea of Mr Kheiralla's to make the Cause a secret matter, `like Masonry.' He told
us Abdul Baha so desired it, but this was not true."
The Chicago Baha'i community in the early 1900s divided into groups, divisions.
The women are the main workers in the Faith because they have more time; the men must
earn a living.
T. Chase to Albert Windust
M125SCF3 Los Ang., 9 Jan. 1910
Please send me news! Chase's permanent office address is 405 Exchange Building, Los Ang.,
Cal. Chase is setting up his office there.
T. Chase to Mrs. Nash
copy 81, c87 5 p. Los Ang., 13 Jan. 1910
Chase can't write a short letter; they must be long. So he hasn't written practically any,
while moving.
Chase describes his moving hastles.
There are difficulties in Denver. The "first on the ground" there (Bryant?) wants to be the
leader. Mrs. Nash is now living in Denver, apparently she's moved there.
The Los Ang. Baha'is are scattered. Public transportation is slow. But a committee has been
formed, and a general monthly meeting, Sundays at 3 PM.
The importance of agreement among the Baha'is. Baha'is should come together, consult, and
coordinate their efforts.
Chase gives his opinion of the purpose and nature of Feast (p.3).
The Faith must be taught wisely; "there is always the danger of introducing other and former
philosophies and teachings and giving the impression that they are Bahai." He elaborates.
This is the day of consultation. "The two pillars of success are Consultation and Kindness."
One should never oppose; problems will fade away if one is patient. Chase said it worked in
Chicago.
Nathaniel Clark is secretary of Denver Baha'is; he is responsible for keeping a bookstore
supplied with books. The store has sold some, too. (p.5)
Chase describes unity feasts; their purpose and organization.
Theosophists in Denver are interested in the Faith. Nash is teaching them; Chase is glad.
Miss Farmer: "It is a pity if Miss Farmer is in that condition. It would be better if she
passed away, rather than to suffer in that way." (p. 5). Chase knows nothing about Green Acre
news.
"Abdul-Baha says we are now engaged in gathering an army, and that its perfect organization
will come after it is gathered."
Note--the next letter is to Mrs. Bryant.
T. Chase to Mrs. A. M. Bryant
copy 81 5 p. Los Ang. 14 Jan. 1910
Chase is now living in Los Ang.
He wishes Nash would work with Bryant; division of the few Baha'is makes success even
more limited. He urges the two women to get together and talk. "Consultation and Kindness." He
disucsses the importance and nature of unity in detail.
There are struggles among the New York Baha'is too. Mr. Mills and Mr. Woodcock are
involved [probably opposition to organization].
"Mr. Mills is anice man, a comparatively new believer, who has been under the influence of
Mr. W and his women upholders in N.Y. He was not settled and grounded in the Faith at all, but
was in the condition of wonder." He is now Chairman of the New York Board; he was "elected by
the bevey of `insurgents' which has Miss Boylan as an active worker."
Chase seems confused about the distinction between the local House of Justice and the
Universal House of Justice. "Yes, there will be but One House of Justice in the world, but it will
have, I am sure, innumerable Branches." He alludes to the passage in the Aqdas.
Resistance to organization in America.
Women can't be members of the House of Spir.
T. Chase to Mrs. Hahn
copy 81 Los Ang., 14 Jan. 1910
The New York situation.
The Faith is the touchstone for truth; not the other way around.
Chase refers to his pilgrimage.
T. Chase to John Bosch
Los. Ang., 16 Jan. 1910
No notes.
Gertrude Buikema to T. Chase
copy 82 2 p. Chicago, 17 Jan. 1910
Chicago news. The Sunday meetings are progressing. There is a Thursday consultative
meeting to plan the Sunday meeting. Mr. Windust hold classes; 6-10 students attend.
Buikema discusses the need for a magazine; they are waiting for `AB's instruction.
Feast is tomorrow night at Mrs. Waite's.
T. Chase to Charles M. Remey
copy 9 p. Los Ang., 19 Jan. 1910
Chase writes extensively about women and women not being on the House of Spir.
Reincarnation, occultism, socialism, "women's pre-eminence" and other ideas of the Baha'is.
Baha'is come back from pilgrimage saying `AB endorses their idle fancies. Chase says "any
person of even a little `common sense'" can see that their interpretations are wrong.
Mr. Percy Woodcock and Mr. Mountfort Mills say `AB has forbidden the establishment of
organization. But what `AB said is that there is to be only one House of Justice; the others are
Counsel Boards only. He did not forbid organization. Mills misinterpreted `AB and published his
notes, saying there is to be no organization. Mrs. Goodall then sent out a letter to a lot of
persons repeating the statement. Woodcock even said that `AB said that organization "interferes
with the action of the Spirit."
Chase says True wrote to `AB whether women could serve on the Chicago House of Justice; `AB
wrote and said that there were to be no women on "that House" ("that the House should be
composed of men only"). The letter was to True; ever since, Chase says, she has been
antagonistic to the House of Spir.(p. 2)
Corinne True has ability, free time, and "a strong ambition"; she works for the pre-
eminence of women.
Mr. W. [Woodcock] agrees with True, Chase says. He has been a firm believer only for one
year.
The old New York Board of Counsel has been thrown out of office; both Woodcock and Boylan
are on it [she wasn't on it, tho, near as I can determine]. Boylan was the head of the women who
threw out the old Board.
`AB wrote a second tablet to True; only men would be on the Universal House of Justice. But
the House of Spir. reads `AB's letter differently than True; they didn't understand it to mean
women could be on the House of Spir.
Chase fears the Faith will be a tool of feminism; of women. He elaborates on the weakness of
women.
Chase stresses the importance of having the authority of the House of Spir. recognized.
Chase says the big problem among the American Baha'is is lack of organization; he says this
must be made clear to `AB. Remey is going to the Holy Land; Chase asks him to explain this to
`AB.
Chase says the Bahai Temple Unity convention ignored the House of Spir., even though `AB
said it should be consulted.
Ambition.
Chase's pilgrimage.
Chase feels all the Baha'is are his children; he has watched the whole community unfold,
"from its very beginning on June 5, 1894."
Chase considers himself to still be a member of the House of Spir.
Chase describes the state of the Faith in the USA now and over the last 16 years.
The Pasadena Baha'is are remaining separate from the rest of Los Ang. Los Ang. has formed a
committee and holds monthly meetings the first Sunday of each month in Blanchard Hall. The
first meeting was 2 Jan.
Honolulu has organized.
Letter from Agnew; the House of Spirituality is not meeting as it was. Chase is discouraged.
Chase quotes Agnew's letter.
The cause of trouble in Chicago and New York is the "woman question."
Mr. True "died instantly on an elevated train about four weeks ago, and now she is unhindered
entirely to do as she will." Chase expresses no grief.
The Baha'i Temple Unity must work with the House of Spir.
The American Baha'i community is like a youth going through puberty.
T. Chase to Arthur Agnew
copy 81 M125 SCF3 and Chase pap. 7 p. Los Ang., 21 Jan. 1910
Mr. Percy Woodcock and his "extreme views of things"; astrology, asceticism, "and other
dangerous and injurious practices and ideas."
Women--especially in New York City!
Mrs. Goodall believed `AB warned believers against organization. Chase replies to this.
Meetings in Oakland are arranged to exclude men; Chase quotes Remey here.
The Honolulu assembly [community] has been organized; a letter from Miss Alexander says
so. Chase quotes a letter from Remey.
Chase quotes `AB's statements in Mill's notes and explains them, sentence by sentence (p. 3).
He also quotes the Aqdas about a House of Justice in every city.
"The one great drawback and hindrance to the more swift advancement of the Cause has been
the lack of organization." [emphasis Chase's]
Individual effort is "first and last"; it has a role with organization in the advance of the Faith.
Obedience to the House of Spir. is necessary.
The House of Spir. is all men; it has to be.
5 p. of pilgrim notes of Mountford Mills regarding organization during the summer of 1900
[1909?] follows the letter.
T. Chase to the Brothers of the Table
copy 81 2p. Los Ang., 21 Jan. 1910
A letter to the men who gather weekly at Kimball's restaurant in Chicago.
Flying machines.
Copy of letter in Chase papers as well as House of Spir. Records.
T. Chase to Mrs. A. M. Bryant
1p. Los Ang., 27 Jan. 1910
No notes.
Gertrude Buikema to T. Chase
copy 82 2 p. Chicago, 22 Feb. 1910
`AB hasn't replied about "The East and the West" magazine. Ahmad Sohrab is lobbying to get
it started. "Bahai News" is to be started, because it is a smaller project than "East and West."
There is confusion over who will start the magazine. New York is talking about starting up a
magazine again. Windust wrote to New York and received a cable from Mr. Mills "last
Saturday": "Board heartily endorses publication of News by you at once. Writing."
"Even Mrs. True, who was at first first very much opposed to the little magazine here, now
is heartily in favor of it. She opposed it because she had heard of the reviving of the `Bulletin'
and she felt it should come from N.Y. so all opposition seems to have been removed and there is
perfect harmony all around. Of course the members of the Temple committee realize the
necessity of a medium through which to communicate news of the progress of the Temple work.
"Will you please send us, as soon as possible, some news for its columns? Mr. Windust said
to-day he hoped the first issue would appear March 21st."
Charles M. Remey to T. Chase
46 p. at sea between Rangoon and Calcutta,
25 Feb. 1910
Remey acknowledges Chase's letter of 19 Jan. 1910.
Scrawly handwriting!
[p. 5] "In your letters you alluded to the affairs in New York City. To me the present
conditions of two parties is the outcome of a course which few if any realized at the time it
caused, nor even now. For several years--seven I think--I have been in touch with the New
York friends and have seen this clash [p. 6] coming, though I must say that I was prepared for a
greater trouble than that which really is.
"The root of the present N.Y. difficulty is, I believe, a relic of Kheiralla and the spirit of the
Nakazeen. The Dodge-MacNutt controversy is such a hackneyed matter that from sheer disgust
the people have dropped it from conversation, the former acted in such a childish way that
public sentiment was against him and with the latter.
[p. 6] "Mr. MacNutt does not acknowledge our Lord Abdul Baha as we do." He visits Wash.,
D.C. with Hooper Harris. expenses paid by Miss Barney, to lecture. "At first I detected a lack of
something in his words, and then [p. 7] I realized the cause of the lack."
[p. 7] "Now Mr. MacNutt loves the Master very much. At times I have seen him too moved to
continue speaking about Him; but he does not regard Him as being different in Spirit from other
men. He believes that Baha'o'llah was different, but that Abdul Baha was not chosen, as was
Baha'o'llah--that Abdul Baha has the highest station, yes--but that through works and service
and overcoming all He attained to this station. He believes that Abdul Baha is of the same nature
as we all are..."
[p. 7] As a result of this idea, other Wash., D.C. Baha'is realized it too, and Mr. MacNutt's
trips to D.C. were stopped.
[p. 8] "Mr. MacNutt is one of the most cultured men we have in the Cause."
[p. 9] "Regarding the `Old Board' in New York, Mr. MacNutt was the ruling spirit of it.
Though composed of men, each of these were ruled by him, or rather reflected his attitude. At
various times I had the occasion, upon behalf of the Wash. Assembly, to seek the cooperation of
the New York friends. All of our relations with `the Board' were fruitless. That body was not
responsive at all. There seemed to be no opposition, simply a lack of life."
[p. 10] "On Thanksgiving, about four years ago [1905], I was in New York City, and in the
strictest confidence was called to attend a meeting of some of the younger men and women who
wished to better the affairs of this assembly--the meetings being practically in the hands of two
speakers had dwindled to almost nothing--the people were clamoring for a `spiritual Meeting.'
Three young men put forth a plan for ousting the old board at the ensuing meeting for elections.
This I strongly advised them not to do for they had nothing to take its place --It was finally
decided to establish a meeting for reading and studying the Tablets and Holy Words..." [end p. 10]
[p. 11] And they started Friday evening meetings at Miss Thompson's. These were very
successful and re-vivified the entire community, and the Sunday meetings.
[p. 11] "The old Board remained until a time when the younger element, largely enthused by
certain women, arose, smashed it, and put the present Board in its place. I feel that this action
was very timely indeed [p. 12] although I cannot say that I approve of the methods used which,
from a Bahai standpoint, were questionable."
[p. 12] Remey was surprised there was "little stir" over the change of leadership in New
York City.
[p. 12] "Having accomplished this end the women ought then to have turned their attention to
working and healing over the wounds, but instead of doing this they have continued to hound Mr.
MacNutt and his friends...." The trouble has continued. Remey talked to Boylan in July--but
everyone is on the "warpath."
[p. 13] Remey discusses the the history of Wash. D.C. At first, they had no organization. [p.
14] Mrs. Barney provided the meeting hall.
[p. 14] "We called together a committee to assume the work of the Assembly. This was
fought most bitterly by some of the women of the Assembly--particularly those older ones who
were the mainstay in the beginning--that it was decided to abandon for the time being the
matter." [p. 15] An informal committee was organized by some, though, and it clandestinely ran
things for a year. "they didn't realize what we were doing. After this we again presented the
matter to the Assembly and the matter was carried and a committee appointed and authorized to
act for the Assembly." After this, there was an effort to try to smash it again. When Remey
returned from Russia, there was trouble again. [p 16] The "Working Committee" was then
dissolved to keep unity. The objectors were allowed to "take the lead" for five months and
"things were at a standstill." [p. 17] The old committee was reappointed after the Bahai Temple
Unity convention in 1909.
There is no trouble between the men and women in Chicago [in comparison with
Washington?] Mr. Hannen suffered much as a result of the troubles in Wash. D.C.
[p. 18] "It may be that you will have to dissolve [the House of Spir.] and give over all to the
women before they will be satisfied and the balance established. Such was what we had to do--
upon a small scale--but I pray that you may be spared."
Remey discusses the need for unity between the House of Spir. and the Bahai Temple Unity.
[p. 19] "Now let me go back for a moment. I feel that the attitude of the H. of S. in some
matters has been rather passive. It did not take up this Temple matter with sufficient
enthusiasm in the beginning." [p. 20] Otherwise the women would not have had the chance to
arise (nor the occasion either) as they did.
There was no appreciation of the work of the House of Spir. at all, in its efforts toward the
Temple, at the first convention.
[p. 20] "In that connection as well as at the meeting to consider plans and designs--on
August 1st 1909, I felt that there was an unwholesome segregation of [p. 21] enthusiasm upon
one side and of judgment upon the other. Woman supplies the motive force--the enthusiams--
which man guides and directs with judgment and wisdom. They must be united."
Remey says the House of Spir. must start a Baha'i magazine.
[p. 26] "At present no systematic arrangement has been devised for keeping the various
assemblies informed of the progress of the Temple work. If people's interest is to be kept up,
they must be in regular and constant communication with the center. Now Mrs. True and others
are writing hundreds of letters--long hand--and expending energy and time and only reaching
[p. 27] a limited number of people. An organ is needed to hold the Believers in communication.
The Temple work needs this more than anything else..."
[p. 27] "Now I feel that it is most necessary to have this magazine as soon as possible."
Remey feels the House of Spir. should start it up; it should be done by men.
[p. 30] "Until I toured America this past year I did not realize how much the Cause needed
men. Everywhere they are in the minority and in the background. Something must be done to
encourage them and bring them forward." Remey wants the House of Spir. to correspond with
men in order to do this.
[p. 31] Remey repeats Mrs. Goodall's comments in his last letter, he's writing to her about
the matter. He wants general [p. 32] meetings organized before women's meetings are--so men
aren't forced to be inactive.
[p. 36] Details on the Persian-American Educational Society. How it was started, p. 36-40.
He states his objections again. Remey has a real universal vision of the Faith.
[p. 41] "There are some firm Bahai Boys in Boston as you know. There is good material in
the New York Board. The Washington [Wash. D.C.] Committee though young is striving to
serve."
Remey and Struven went to Honolulu, Japan, China, Burma, on his way to India.
[p. 45] "If the friends could have been there and seen the need for education amongst these
people [in Burma?] they would realize the necessity of a general Bahai Educational Society."
Remey thinks the Persian American Educational Society is 1) too narrow; just Persian; and 2)
too indirect; it should be called Baha'i.
[p. 20] "Although I never mentioned it to you, I was a party to your own personal suffering
those days of the Convention, and I felt strongly upon the matter. In the Convention meeting I
remember wishing and suggesting to the people that some cognizance should be taken of `The
Bahai Temple Association of America' for which the H. of S. was trustee, and of the work of the
latter (H. of S.) but there was no response whatever, so I quietly sat down."
[p. 22] Remey expresses concern the Bahai Temple Unity is so unbusinesslike and
unsystematic.
[p. 22] `AB says they must pay for the land in full before building.
Gertrude Buikema to T. Chase
filed 24 Feb. 1910 1 p. Chicago, 27 Feb. 1910
The Bahai Temple Unity convention will be held during Ridvan, not Naw-Ruz, per
instructions of `Abdu'l-Baha. [Abdu'l-Baha's letter copied.]
"Mr. Agnew and Mrs. True were re-elected this morning as our delegates to the convention."
That's all she says.
T. Chase to Mrs. Nash
Los Ang., 28 Feb. 1910
The Denver situation: "Of course I am sorry that there must be any `parties' there, but the
real hunger will find its food..."
T. Chase to Mr. Sigurd Russell
copy 2p. Los Ang., 9 Mar. 1910
Hawaii now has fifteen believers.
Chase describes how to organize a Board of Counsel: "nine or more men of fair mental and
spiritual capacity" are necessary. A separate "Women's Auxiliary" or "Assembly of Teaching"
should be created too. Where both are impossible, a "Committee of both men and women" should
be formed. All three organizations should be based on consultation and kindness.
Cremation is forbidden in the Faith.
T. Chase to Dr. H. C. Strong
c87 3p. Los Ang., 17 Mar. 1910
Each human being is unique, and has a unique responsibility and ability to manifest God in his
own capacity.
T. Chase to the Baha'i Friends gathered in Chicago
1p. Portland, OR, 5 Apr. 1910
A general letter; it may be to a convention, probably the second annual Bahai temple Unity
convention.
T. Chase to John Bosch
San Fran., 11 Apr. 1910
No notes.
Gertrude Buikema to T. Chase
copy 82 2 p. Chicago, 15 Apr. 1910
News for Bahai News had been sent in by Chase. 2000 copies of the first issue were printed
and "sent to all the Baha'is whose addresses we could find," which was 1200-1300.
Subscriptions are coming in. The first issue cost $60.00 to print. It will cost less in the
future; the magazine will just be sent to subscribers. The issue after the convention has been
offered to the Bahai Temple Unity for their report.
"dear Mrs. True is working with us."
Chase cut out the juicy stuff; on Mr. Thompson and his circular letter, on behalf of the House
of Spir.
T. Chase to Latimer
copy, c87 2p. Los Ang., 28 Apr. 1910
An article on the Faith, apparently by Thompson, has appeared in the Oregonian magazine. It
is unfortunate and sensational.
Thompson is an ambitious Baha'i. He has not proclaimed himself Christ, but nearly so. He is
"devoured with boundless ambition." He became a Baha'i only a year earlier; he was elected to
the House of Spir. before Chase left Chicago! He was interested in the Faith earlier, but was not
a Baha'i. Chase has known him for twelve years. He studied Emerson, and was a student of Mrs.
Martin of Cincinnati. One year ago Thompson became interested in the Baha'i Faith again, after
reading Chase's Baha'i Revelation. He conducted the Sunday meetings in Chicago after Windust
stopped; Chase says he did it too long. Some complained that he did it too long.
Dr. Buchanan.
T. Chase to Mr. William Herrigel
copy 2p. Los Ang., 5 May 1910
On 5 June of this year it will be 15 years since Chase heard of the Faith.
Bahai Revelation may be translated into German by Herrigel.
Carl Scheffler, Dr. Fisher mentioned. Chase met Fisher once.
Christian Science, occultism were a "preparing ground" for the Faith. Herrigel had been a
Christian scientist.
Los Ang. has a metaphysical society.
New Thought mentioned.
T. Chase to Mrs. Frances Johnson of Honolulu
part copied 81, c87 3p. Los Ang., 7 May 1910
Chase didn't go to the Bahai Temple Unity convention; he didn't think it was a useful exercise
while the Temple was being built.
Chase has returned from Bakersfield, Oakland, San Francisco, Portland, Seattle. He lists the
meetingd held at each place.
Isms, occultism. Chase attended the metaphysical convention of Los Angeles last week. Her
brother is interested in such matters and lives in San Diego. Chase criticizes the gathering for
ignoring God and concentrating on material concerns, like health and prosperity.
T. Chase to Carl Scheffler
copy 4p. Los Ang., 10 May 1910
Chase still considers himself a member of the House of Spir.
Chase says more on Thompson. He worked for the same company as Chase in Cincinnati. He
ran for governor on the Socialist ticket! He told Chase that he had never sinned.
Kheiralla had ambitions similar to Thompson.
Remey has just sent Chase a letter of 45 pages. He discusses the history of Wash. D.C., the
community, and its troubles with women.
`AB, Baha'u'llah say it is impossible for women to serve on the House of Spir.; so Chase says.
Women should be left alone.
A Baha'i magazine is important. "The Cause needs it." It should be done by the men, not the
women!
Goodall, Ameen Fareed mentioned.
Forty attend the weekly meetings in Los Ang.
T. Chase to H. C. Strong of Chicago
2p. Los Ang., 10 May 1910
Chase just returned from being "on the road."
T. Chase to John Bosch
Los Ang., 13 May 1910
No notes.
T. Chase to Mrs. Rice-Wray
c87 5p. Los Ang., 16 May 1910
No notes; its illegibile!
T. Chase to Mr. Willard Hatch
17 May 1910
p. 3 -- foods, moderation in sex and politics.
(Spiritual) equality of men and women.
The primacy of education of girls.
One should seek both a physician and spiritual healing.
Chase explains the Baha'i view of politics; he didn't know we couldn't be involved in it.
Chase says the universal language will grow out of Esperanto.
T. Chase to Dr. Gordon Ives of Fresno, Cal.
copy 3p. Los Ang., 17 May 1910
Chase is replying to a letter by Ives of the 14th.
Baha'i Revelation. Chase criticizes it; it isn't simple enough. He's trying to write something
else.
Theosophy, the churches, the return of Christ, Christian Science.
Marriage.
Education of girls is preferred over boys.
Seek a physician; nature of the illness is important.
Diet.
Politics, political parties.
A universal language. Esperanto is a step toward it.
The Faith is seeking to bring all to knowledge of God's will and to establish a relation with
Him. It has social teachings, but they are less important.
T. Chase to H. C. Strong
c87 1p. Los Ang., 21 May 1910
Spiritual growth is likened to photography.
T. Chase to John Bosch
Los Ang., 3 June 1910
No notes.
T. Chase to John Bosch
copy 81 Los Ang., 4 June 1910
Scheffler is discussed; the letter is hard to read, though.
T. Chase to Arthur Agnew
copy 81 2p. M125SCF4, also TC Los Ang., 9 June 1910
"isms" and "osophies."
Thompson and his egotism.
Kheiralla is mentioned; he said "I must put the peacock under my foot," i.e., to control his
egotism.
T. Chase to John Bosch
copy 81 Bosch papers Los Ang., 15 June 1910
Drinking.
Pilgrimage in 1911 or 1912.
T. Chase to Dr. Gordon Ives
copy 81 4p. Los Ang., 14 June 1910
The importance of pure foods; meat, drugs eventually will be abandoned.
Mr. Dunn is "a noble soul" and a mutual friend.
`AB is described. Chase says he has lived in Akka since his pilgrimage. He doesn't think it
would be a good idea for `AB to visit America. He'll be misrepresented by the press.
Mankind is like a boy entering puberty.
T. Chase to Mr. Bates
c87 1p. Los Ang., 20 June 1910
Congratulations on Elizabeth's marriage (Mr. Bates's daughter?). He reflects about
marriage.
T. Chase to unknown
copy 82 San Francisco archives 1 p. Los Ang., 25 June 1910
Chase is moving into a bigger house in Los Ang., and selling the old one.
Los Ang. unity feast is being held at the Frankland's. Mrs. Winterburn holds classes on the
Ighan [Iqan].
The letter is probably to Cooper or Goodall. Several unnamed letters have her initials
penciled on them, and all of them are clearly addressed to women.]
T. Chase to John Bosch
Bosch pap. Los Ang., 1 July 1910
Chase has a cold.
T. Chase to Mirza Raffie
copy 2p. Los Ang., 2 July 1910
Chase's work territory extends as far as Colorado.
Chase feels few opportunities to work for the Faith. He feels "`put on the shelf' long before it
should be so."
Chase can't renew his insurance; Raffie must have gotten it through Chase and Chase paid for
it.
Chase quotes Ober: we are all make-overs.
"The Bahai Revelation in this country, has attracted those who are inclined to be extremists...
delved into false occultism..." These Baha'is distort the Faith.
T. Chase to Dr. Gordon Ives of Fresno, Cal.
c87 6p. Los Ang., 6 July 1910
Difficulties of translation.
Chase used to be bored by the Iqan. Now he is fascinated (p. 4). "The Book of Ighan [Iqan]
(Explanation or Assurance) was to me very dull and soporific when I first read it, but it has
grown upon me with the years until now I know it to be a work of marvelous importance."
`AB's manner of speaking.
New Thought.
"I have been reading the `Hidden Words' for some thirteen years (since they were first
translated)..."
Esperanto.
Socialism.
T. Chase to Mr. H. C. Strong of Chicago
copy 81 1p. Los Ang., 6 July 1910
A short letter; very nice.
T. Chase to Mrs. Parmerton
copy 81 3p. Los Ang., 13 July 1910
Oil exploration and the geology of southern California.
T. Chase to Gordon Ives
copy 81 2p. 2 Aug. 1910
The disastrous effects of occult teachings.
"And the great and sole teacher of man in the way of Righteousness is the Word of God. It
reaches the lowest, the poorest, the weak and especially the suffering and oppressed.
Philosophies, whether called divine or not, can not reach the hearts of the masses, indeed it i
doubtful if the[y] reach hearts at all. Religion is a matter of heart."
Chase made this 2-page extract from the letter; the rest does not exist.
Gertrude Buikema to T. Chase
copy 82 6 p. Chicago, 19 Aug. 1910
The "friends" in Chicago--she lists Agnew, Scheffler, Sophie Loeding.
Mr. Lesch is in charge of the Chicago Sunday morning meetings. 25 attended this last Sunday;
50 the week before. 39 were at the service yesterday. But many were away on summer
vacation.
Buikema's mother's funeral is described. Mr. Windust sang and read at the service. The
minister of her church led it. Protestant, Catholic, and Baha'i were all present. They used the
"programme which you had arranged for Mr. Olsen's funeral. We rearranged this..." The
minister "spoke first in Holland [Dutch] then in English." It was a combined Baha'i and church
service.
Gertrude Buikema was "formerly a member" of the English speaking branch of the Dutch
Reformed Church in America. Was her mom in a church in the Dutch branch?
"The Bahai faith."
half of p. 4 is cut out. Probably it contained a reference to the failings of some Baha'is.
"Yesterday morning 39 attended the meeting" in Chicago.
Remey and Juliet Thompson are engaged. "I met Miss Thompson in New York last Sept., as
you will probably remember, and was very much impressed by her. I cannot imagine a more
ideal mate for Mr. Remey, and he is indeed fortunate. I was so happy when I heard it."
Mrs. Chase's mother is very ill.
Mr. Dreyfus is in town. He looked over the tablets addressed to the House of Spir. He said
House of Spir. is a bad translation; "Spiritual Gathering" or "Spiritual Meeting" would be
better.
Dreyfus says "Women's Assembly of Teaching" would be better translated "Spreaders." [The
word in Persian is probably tablighat; "propagation."]
Chicago has no Sunday classes for the summer. "Mr Windust made them interesting. He is
such a pure, beautiful soul and has a fine spiritual insight." He has 2 children, a wife with a
delicate condition, and two ailing in-laws!
Buikema was at Kimball's; the group must still be meeting there.
The Bahai Temple Unity convention was a "terrific storm"; a reference to Thompson?
T. Chase to Stanford University
copy 1p. Los Ang., 1 Sept. 1910
Chase wrote regarding his son, T. Chase Jr., who is applying to Stanford for this year. He is
beginning his senior year at Dartmouth.
T. Chase to Gertrude Buikema
1p. Los Ang., 3 Sept. 1910
General news. Oscar Hinckley visited from San Diego; he is very well, in his 70s.
Bethlen has been visiting for three weeks.
T. Chase to John Bosch
copy 81 Bosch pap. Los Ang., 10 Sept. 1910
Madame Bethlen.
T. Chase to Latimer
c87 2p. Los Ang., 12 Sept. 1910
Madame Bethlen is in Los Ang. and is drawing crowds to the Faith, but Chase thinks for
herself also. She makes extravagant statements about the Faith, too. She is "enthusiastic" and a
bit sensationalistic. She has hired a hall by herself and sends out her own publicity. Her
understanding of the Faith is shallow and her use of prophecies "antagonizes" people. Chase calls
her a "Bahai test." They can't stop her from teaching.
Los Ang. is a hotbet of metaphysics.
Buchanan has a close friend who works for the Oregonian.
T. Chase to Carl Scheffler
M28B1F26 Scheffler pap. copy 82 Los Ang., 12 Sept. 1910
Scheffler is ill. Chase writes a beautiful, encouraging letter. "You know that I love you as if
you were my own brother..."
Los Ang. is growing. It has a nice climate. T. Chase "dreaded heat so much" but the Los Ang.
climate has proved better for him.
T. Chase to John Bosch
Los Ang., 21 Sept. 1910
No notes.
T. Chase to John Bosch
Bosch pap. San Fran., 11 Oct. 1910
Chase is leaving for Portland by boat Thursday at noon. He will be there one week.
T. Chase to Mrs. Rice-Wray
c87 2p. San Fran., 12 Oct. 1910
Chase is on his way to Portland, Seattle; he'll be back to Los Ang. in 3 or 4 weeks.
Most of the letter is quotations from the Bible and Hidden Words.
T. Chase to Mrs. Bissell
p. Portland, Or., 21 Oct. 1910
The letter is all about biblical prophecy and is 6 p. long. Chase is introducing her to the
Faith.
T. Chase to John Bosch
Seattle, 30 Oct. 1910
T. Chase was in Portland. He leaves for San Fran. tomorrow.
T. Chase to Arthur Agnew
copy 81 4p. Los Ang., 14 Nov. 1910
Chase left "just after" 29 Sept. to northern agencies. He was too busy to answer letters until
he returned.
In Seattle T. Chase held meetings every evening and many afternoons. Portland was the same.
Chase got back from the trip "a few days ago." The pile of letters to reply to is six inches
high.
Chase suggests that Atlantis sank at the time of a Manifestation. It may rise again!
House of Spir. in Arabic is Bait el Ruhanieh.
More on the need for unity, and on the activity of the House of Spir. The House of Spir. is not
meeting at all.
Women again.
Chicago is the center of the Faith in America. Chase misses the place very much.
Chase just got a letter from Scheffler. But none of Scheffler's letters to Chase exist in the
papers; they must have been destroyed.
T. Chase to Albert Windust
copy 81 2p. Los Ang., 16 Nov. 1910
Chase says he was up north for several weeks.
Equality of men and women.
Chase says the main fault with the Baha'i Revelation is that it is not simple enough.
The station of the House of Spir.
Is `Abdu'l-Baha coming to America?
T. Chase to Gertrude Buikema
copy 3p. Los Ang., 16 Nov. 1910
Letter from Buikema dated 5 Oct. Chase received it in San Fran. He had just started a
northern trip; now he's home.
Mrs. Goodall, Dr. and Mrs. Cooper. There are many small Baha'i meetings in the Bay area.
Mrs. Mary C. Bell is a Baha'i in San Fran.
Mr. Hyde Dumn and Mr. and Mrs. Matteson are mentioned. The latter two don't seem to be
Baha'is yet. But they have left Christian Science.
Portland, OR: Mr. and Mrs. Latimer organized several meetings.
Chase's teaching efforts were successful.
Seattle: Mr. and Mrs. Finch organized many meetings. A unity feast had 20 in attendance!
Portland has few believers, and they are scattered.
Mrs. Nash and her daughter have settled in Eagle Rock, a Los Ang. suburb.
Mr. and Mrs. Rice-Wray have moved to Los Ang.
Madame Bethlen is visiting Los Ang. at the moment. She seems to have "improved very much
in her presentation" of the Faith.
Mention of three Haneys--Mr., Mrs., and Paul. They just published "A Heavenly Feast."
Baha'i News.
The pilgrim's notes of Knobloch, Finch are mentioned as just published too.
Chase just received letters from Scheffler and Windust. He will write them back.
Rumor has it `Abdu'l-Baha is traveling in Europe, or will.
Ellah Rice-Wray of St. Louis send to Chase supplications of three new believers in St. Louis.
T. Chase to W. Herrigel
c87 2p. Los Ang., 16 Nov. 1910
Chase was traveling for six weeks to San Fran., Portland, Seattle.
News from Germany and Switzerland. Chase is glad to hear the Faith has reached
Switzerland. He lists all of Herrigel's plans for translating Baha'i works into German.
T. Chase to Carl Scheffler
copy 7p. Los Ang., 17 Nov. 1910
Scheffler's letter to Chase reached him in Seattle. Chase wrote Agnew on 16 Nov. about the
"heedlessness of the H. of S." [House of Spir.] Agnew wants the men to work separately, not
together. Chase asks Scheffler whether Agnew is reading his letters to the House of Spir. as
requested. Chase says the House of Spir. should meet at least once a month [apparently it
wasn't].
Mrs. True--the House of Spir. is men only, `Abdu'l-Baha said. A tablet from `Abdu'l-Baha to
Chase also said "encourage women as much as possible" but says women cannot be on the House of
Spir.
The House of Spir. is the mainstay of the Faith in the USA. Its general meetings held the
Chicago cliques together. It causes organization and unity.
Organization is the "spinal column" of the Faith.
There are many faddists and occultists in the Faith.
It is "Man's Day just as much as Woman's Day."
Mirza Asadu'llah was the originator of the idea that men should be on the House of Spir. and
women should be on an auxiliary to the House of Spir.
There should be a study class of the Iqan or of another book by Baha'u'llah monthly.
`Abdu'l-Baha's visit to Europe and America will be a time of testing of the Baha'is and will
cause attacks on the Faith in the newspapers.
Chase expresses his love for Scheffler and praises him.
Chase admits he preaches a lot in his letters.
Chase's orange grove got ruined by frost.
Chase notes he was the first firm believer in America.
T. Chase to Mirza Munir Zayn
c87 1p. Los Ang., 23 Nov. 1910
Chase sends a supplication of his own and those of several other persons.
`AB is now in Alexandria. Might he come to the USA?
T. Chase to `Abdu'l-Baha
Los Ang., 23 Nov. 1910
Chase now is in Los Ang.; he was in San Fran., Portland, Seattle.
T. Chase asks `Abdu'l-Baha whether a canal will ever be dug from the Mediterranean to the
Jordan Valley; Chase says a prophecy in Ezekiel alludes to it.
There are rumors `Abdu'l-Baha will travel to the USA.
T. Chase to John Bosch
copy 81 Los Ang., 29 Nov. 1910
No notes!
T. Chase to John Bosch
copy 81 Bosch pap. Los Ang., 3 Dec. 1910
Reference to Mrs. Ford.
T. Chase to Mrs. Rabb
c87 2 p. Los Ang., 5 Dec. 1910
The spelling and pronunciation should be Baha'o'llah. Please correct any manuscripts you
prepare. (She types manuscripts of tablets for distribution to others.)
Rabb is interested in assembling a compilation of Baha'i writings.
Chase says we should pull in people, not push them in.
T. Chase to John Bosch
copy 81 Bosch pap. Los Ang., 12 Dec. 1910
Chase has physical troubles.
Los Ang. news.
T. Chase to Mr. Das
2p. Los Ang., 17 Dec. 1910
Das passed through San Fran. on his way to India. Now he is in India.
`AB is now in Alexandria. Chase: "Personally I doubt very much whether he will do so
[`Abdu'l-Baha come to USA]."
Chase is very homesick for Chicago.
T. Chase to Ida Finch
c87 2p. Los Ang., 17 Dec. 1910
T. Chase occasionally attends a Sunday Bible class under a tent one block from his house.
The Faith is strengthening in Seattle.
Mirza Munir Zayn to T. Chase
c87 1 p. Akka, 27 Dec. 1910
A reply to T. Chase to Zayn, March 1910. The letter is typed.
"Egypt has entirely been transformed since `Abdul-Baha was there. People of various
branches, societies, creeds and religions come to meet Him, almost in group; then go forth to
publish the most beautiful history of the Cause with a brief illustration of the Bahai
fundamental principles."
`Abdu'l-Baha has left Akka for Port Said for almost four weeks, then He will go to Alexandria.
Chase's letter to `Abdu'l-Baha is still in Akka, awaiting His return.
T. Chase to Hyde Dunn
c87 7p. Los Ang., 29 Dec. 1910
Chase reflects about Christmas.
Chase briefly discusses the Baha'i teachings.
T. Chase to Hyde Dunn
c87 3p. Los Ang., 31 Dec. 1910
Chase says a lot about Dr. Ives's investigation of the Faith; who he heard of it from, etc.
Chase describes `AB's station, often quoting from `AB.
YR 1911
T. Chase to Ida Finch
c87 3p. Los Ang., 4 Jan. 1911
A general letter to the Seattle believers on love, life, and the new year. The letter also
mentions Christmas.
T. Chase to Mrs. Hahn
copy 81 5p. Los Ang., 14 Jan. 1911
Disunity in New York.
Baha'is tend to "read meaning into" `Abdu'l-Baha's tablets (p. 1).
"We are all makeovers." T. Chase quotes Ober again.
The Faith is the "crucible" to "test" other ideas; not vice versa.
The spiritual adolescence of many believers.
Egotism.
Unity and the sources of disunity in the community.
T. Chase to Hyde Dunn
c87 2p. Los Ang., 16 Jan. 1911
Chase mentions Ives before he became a Baha'i.
An assembly is being organized in San Fran.
T. Chase to Ida Finch
c87 2p. Los Ang., 17 Jan. 1911
He replies to two letters, dated 7 and 9 Jan.
T. Chase to Mrs. A. M. Bryant
c87 3p. Los Ang., 19 Jan. 1911
Chase writes concerning egotism in leaders of the Faith.
The Denver situation is not good; 2 or 3 are still Baha'is, though. Chase may be coming
through in Feb.
Chase discusses whether `Abdu'l-Baha will come to the USA. The USA Baha'is are not united
enough. If He comes, it will be a time of great testing. A "Time of terrible commotion." It will
be very difficult for many believers. It will cause a terrible battle with self, for many.
The importance of unity.
Mrs. Br-ham "baptizes" people. Chase wants to know how she does this, if it was she.
Ref. to Thompson, substituting love of self for love of God.
T. Chase to Dr. Scaife
c87 3p. Los Ang., 19 Jan. 1911
An introductory letter about the Faith. He skillfilly builds is discussion around quotations
from Skaife's letter.
Mary Rabb to T. Chase
2 p. Portland, Or., 20 Jan. 1911
Mrs. Herron's pilgrim's notes are from 1900.
Mrs. Wagner notes to Rabb "Revelation did not cease with Baha'o'Llah. `Abdul Baha is the
Revelator of this Day and He has His Book." Rabb adds "It may be that I do not grasp the meaning
intended, but it seems to me that it was as I said an illustration of those different ideas that come
from the different imagination."
Chase has spoken to her [Rabb] and Mrs. Latimer about Abdu'l-Baha's station.
Portland is very united now. They held a feast yesterday. Chase had been there for feast
earlier and had explained it to them.
"I wish that you could come up here into the woods with us to regain your strength. We were
sorry to hear that you had been ill and so ill that you must go to the hospital."
T. Chase to Albert Windust
copy 81 3p. Los Ang., 21 Jan. 1911
Chase feels "out of it" in Los Ang.
Los Ang. news; T. Chase is going to feasts.
Mr. Haney is a "wet blanket" always pessimistic. "I want to see some joy and exultation in
this Glorious Revelation."
The letter is gossipy; Chase admits it! It describes the problems of the Los Ang. believers.
House of Spir.
Roy Wilhelm to T. Chase
2 p. 24 Jan. 1911
Wilhelm has published a book--by Mrs. Ford?-- that doesn't conform to `Abdu'l-Baha's
rules of orthography. He discusses the book. He also notes that he was very careful to get `AB's
instructions about orthography word-for-word. The translator even repeated what he had
translated back to `AB for verification. `AB also said that pronouns referring to the
Manifestations should begin with a capital letter.
T. Chase to Hyde Dunn
2p. Los Ang., 26 Jan. 1911
Christ's transfiguration and resurrection.
T. Chase to Mrs. Rice-Wray
c87 4p. Los Ang., 26 Jan. 1911
A long letter, full of quotations.
Religion is man-made, but God-made; religions are man-made. "The essence of reliion is
Love, because Love is Life; there is no other life."
T. Chase to Hyde Dunn
4p. Los Ang., 1 Feb. 1911
Chase contrasts the martyrdoms in Shiraz with the American Baha'is, who "resemble rather
a debating society than a body of citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven."
T. Chase to Mr. Joseph Hannen
copy 1p. Los Ang., 4 Feb. 1911
Hannen is secretary of the Persian-American Educational Society. The letter is addressed to
him in that capacity.
The letter is a reply to one by Hannen of 27 Jan.
Chase accepts appointment as a member of the National Executive Board of the Orient-
Occident Unity.
T. Chase to Mr. Goodale
1p. Los Ang., 4 Feb. 1911
Chase asks him for news of Kenosha [where Goodale then was living].
Los Ang. is progressing slowly; the Baha'is are so scattered that it is hard. Forty usually
attend the monthly meetings. New seekers are appearing.
T. Chase to the Baltimore Baha'is
10p. total Los Ang., 7 Feb. 1911
Biblical prophecy; two four-page essays about it. A one page letter, one page of notes
(probably Chase's original notes, from which he wrote the essays).
Joseph Hannen to Mrs. H. C. Wagner, Pasadena, Cal.
c87 1p. 7 Feb. 1911
It asks the Pasadena Baha'is to appoint a committee to work with the "Inter Assembly Unity
Committee" which I guess was planning the Orient-Occident Unity Ass'n.
T. Chase to Dr. C. W. Eells of Denver, Col.
copy 81 6p. Los Ang., 8 Feb. 1911
Chase started searching 30 years ago.
The letter is to a non-Baha'i and stresses independent investigation. It seems carefully
suited to its recipient.
One can be a Christian, a Buddhist, a Jew, and a Baha'i at the same time!
Eells lived in Denver.
T. Chase to Roy Wilhelm
c87 1p. Los Ang., 9 Feb. 1911
Orthography; Baha'o'llah, capitalization of pronouns. Ford's book, the Oriental Rose, uses
Bahaist instead of Baha'i; Chase calls it "hard and erroneous."
T. Chase to Albert Windust
c87 2p. Los Ang., 9 Feb. 1911
Chase repeats his advice to Wilhelm to Windust, for the record.
T. Chase to Hippolyte Dreyfus
copy 81 2p. Los Ang., 12 Feb. 1911
A beautiful letter about death, the next world, and the eternity of love.
T. Chase to Mrs. Rabb
copy 86 5 p. Los Ang., 13 Feb. 1911
The station of `Abdu'l-Baha. The letter is a reply to her's of 20 Jan. 1911.
T. Chase to Mr. Howard Struven
1p. Los Ang., 15 Feb. 1911
No notes.
T. Chase to Mrs. A. M. Bryant
copy 81 3p. Los Ang., 24 Feb. 1911
Chase doesn't think the Bahai Temple Unity meetings are very useful. The Bahai Temple
Unity Board won't change their ideas, or membership, because of the convention. Chase implies
that the BTU is now in the hands of those who will seek to retain their power, and who will
ignore the delegates.
Unity is necessary for `Abdu'l-Baha to visit the USA. Chase quotes `AB, who says so!
T. Chase to Dr. H. W. Scaife of Encanto, Cal.
c87 3p. Los Ang., 24 Feb. 1911
Jesus's real mission wasn't His death on the cross, but "to bring divine instruction to men, to
bring the Light of Truth into the darkness of their ignorance, and thus to turn the hearts of the
people to God."
Many Baha'is worship the personality of `AB, rather than BH or God. Chase describes `AB.
The real savior is the Word of God.
T. Chase to Mrs. Emma Hahn
c87 3p. Los Ang., 25 Feb. 1911
Chase is separated from Baha'i work by living in Los Ang.; he wants to correspond to all
Baha'i centers to advise them.
T. Chase says he isn't yet retired.
Many people flock to L.A. as tourists or to retire.
Hahn is probably the mother of Mrs. Frances Johnson, now in Japan.
The Kinneys have now had a son.
Bethlen is in Los Ang.
T. Chase to Mr. William Herrigel of Germany
c87 2p. 2 Mar. 1911
There are 35 Baha'is in the Los Ang. area. 68 attended a recent public meeting. The friends
are scattered, a few in Pasadena, Tropico, Long Beach. Monthly public meetings are held in a
rented hall.
"Before Abraham was I am!" is translated into German.
Chase says Jenab-i-Zayn wrote the Traveler's Narrative. He is now dead, but his three sons
work for `AB.
T. Chase to George Haigis of Constatt, Germany
2p. Los Ang., 2 Mar. 1911
The first day of the fast.
Chase quotes Swedenborg. The recipient of the letter is a German, just like Herrigel.
He just translated "What went ye out for to see?"
Most likely `Abdu'l-Baha will visit Stuttgart, if he visits the USA.
For exact spelling of name of recipient, see T Chase to Herrigel, 16 Nov. 1910.
T. Chase to John Bosch
Bosch pap. San Fran., 21 Mar. 1911
Chase leaves for Los Ang. tomorrow night; then probably to Arizona.
Chase is doubtful Los Ang. will send a delegate to the Bahai Temple Unity convention.
T. Chase to Mrs. Rice-Wray
c87 2p. Denver, 13 Apr. 1911
Chase has been in Denver for several days. Then he goes to Seattle, Portland; 4 weeks later
to Los Ang.
He reviews and praises a talk by a Professor Greenwood, who is interested in the Faith.
Denver meetings have gone well. Many Theosophists are deeply interested in the Faith.
Forty came to one meeting.
Howard MacNutt to Mrs. Latimer
c87 1p. 29 April 1911
Kheiralla's book. `AB told believers not to keep a copy in their houses; that any house with it
"would be deprived of blessings." MacNutt explains why--the book is inaccurate and even
contradicts Baha'i teaching.
MacNutt would like to visit the est coast some time.
T. Chase to unknown
1 p.; rest missing. San Fran., 9 May 1911
Chase hasn't been in Los Ang. for 6 weeks; he was traveling, to Denver, Seattle, Portland; he
arrived by steamer from Portland yesterday, leaving there 3 1/2 days earlier. Chase spoke at
17 meetings. Many had an average attendence of 40.
Bosch came down from Geyserville just to see him. Chase praises Bosch.
Denver--he spoke at three meetings in two branches of the Theosophical societies. Chase
thinks that 25 Theosophists in one branch will all become Bahais.
He hopes to be home in a few days.
The letter may be to Herrigel. It is to someone outside the USA, and Herrigel corresponded
with Bosch.
T. Chase to Latimer
c87 2p. Bakersfield, Cal., 17 May 1911
Dr. Kheiralla had a $20 diploma from a semi-medical school; this gave him his title of "Dr."
Kh. wrote a letter to Mrs. Nash. Latimer sent a copy of it to Chase. T. Chase wants to send a copy
of it to `Abdu'l-Baha.
Kheiralla's book is how the Faith was taught by Kheiralla, except he took out everything he
said about `AB. Chase has a manuscript copy of much of Kheiralla's book as it was originally
written. And it was untrue! Much of his teachings had to be "abandoned" later. Kheiralla's
translations were biased.
Chase has been away from home for 8 weeks; he will return this week. Boat trip.
Nakazeen.
Chase's trip went at least as far as San Fran.
T. Chase to Lincoln Davis of Hanford, Cal.
4p. Los Ang., 26 May 1911
Davis is a non-Baha'i who is physically ill. He is a seeker.
Christian Science may be able to help him, T. Chase says.
A general letter about the Faith.
T. Chase to Fannie Johnson
c87 3p. Los Ang., 27 May 1911
She's going to Japan. Chase advises her how to teach the Japanese.
Wilcott has left Kenosha. Chase calls him a "most earnest and faithful young man."
Chase descibes meetings in Portland, Seattle, Denver.
Chase wants one of the Hawaiian Baha'i calendars.
He refers to Mdame Bethlen's visit; it sounds like it brough mixed results.
T. Chase to Mrs. George M. Miller
1p. Los Ang., 29 May 1911
She is printing a poem for him (EL-ABHA). He encloses proposed changes. The last line is
an acrostic.
Los Ang. celebrated the Ascension of Baha'u'llah on the eve of 28 May.
T. Chase is having trouble with his camera.
T. Chase to Mr. G. Spiller of London, England
1p. Los Ang., 29 May 1911
T. Chase requests to join the Universal Races Congress as a member.
Date is only on back.
T. Chase to Mrs. A. M. Bryant
copy 81 2p. Los Ang., 3 June 1911
Chase returned from a 9 week trip a few days ago. He attended 17 meetings in three weeks.
Chicago news--much trial and testing. Personal ambitions, he thinks, is muh of the trouble,
as well as refusal to consult with others.
Ameen Fareed is in Los Ang.; he says on a mission from Abdu'l-Baha. He and Lua Getsinger
apparently spoke at Point Loma. They say `AB has sent them on a mission; what it is, he doesn't
know.
T. Chase complains people claim `Abdu'l-Baha command them to go and teach. Chase says `AB
tells everyone to do things.
Baha'is are not leading the world because they are not united.
T. Chase to Mirza Munir Zayn
c87 4p. Los Ang., 9 June 1911
T. Chase is sending a letter from Kheiralla to a Seattle Baha'i, Mr. Nash, to Abdu'l-Baha.
T. Chase addressed 17 meetings in 3 weeks, in Denver, Seattle, Portland. Then San Fran.,
and Oakland meetings. Four Denver Theosophists have become Baha'is.
"It is seventeen years the 5th of this month since I learned of the Blessed Manifestation."
T. Chase is teaching a Bible study class of businessmen at a local church; he hope to mention
the Faith there soon. The church was recently dedicated. His class is the main class each
Sunday; the lessons are published.
Fareed, Lua have gone to San Diego to teach today.
The ecumenical movement of Protestant sects is gaining strength.
Mirza Ahmad Sohrab to T. Chase
c87 1p. 9 June 1911
Six tablets are enclosed; one is for Chase. The Orient-Occident Unity conference is being
planned.
T. Chase to Mirza Ahmad Sohrab
c87 1p. Los Ang., 15 June 1911
California greetings to the Orient-Occident Unity conference.
T. Chase to Ahmad Sohrab
c87 1p. Los Ang., 22 June 1911
"Your kind letter with the beautiful enclosure reached me in the hospital, where I have been
for two weeks owing to an operation for rectal troubles. I am out and recovering alright,
although slowly." This is the first day he has gone to the office.
Note, the right spelling is Baha'o'llah.
T. Chase to Mirza Raffie
copy 81 1p. Los Ang., 29 June 1911
Chase cosigned Raffie's loan; he is writing to make sure Raffie can pay. Otherwise it will
break Chase.
T. Chase to Albert Windust
copy 81 2p. Los Ang., 1 July 1911
"Is the Publishing Society still in existence?"
"Nothing would please me better, my dear fellow, that to come back there, and especially so if
I could go there and take hold of things with all my effort."
House of Spir.
The doctors cut him "up a bit."
T. Chase to Mrs. Waite
c87 2p. Los Ang., 3 July 1911
House of Spir. is "quiescent, but not asleep." It is a strong, important body.
Mr. Waite is interested in an insurance job. Chase says auto insurance is an excellent money
maker.
House of Spir. worked well together. The pillars of organization are "Consultation and
Kindness."
Chase has been in the hospital for three weeks "as a result of a minor operation."
The Waites plan to leave Chicago. Mrs. Waite sent hymnals to Herrigel in Stuttgart.
T. Chase to Willard Hatch of San Fran.
1p. Los Ang., 8 July 1911
Apparently this is Chase's first letter to Hatch. A Mrs. Mary C. Bell has asked him to write
Hatch.
T. Chase to Willard Hatch
1p. Los Ang., 11 July 1911
Chase contrasts Hatch's letter with that of a seeker who hasbecome a Theosophist. The person
seeks everywhere, and has confused religion with philosophy.
Chase points out that individual didn't grasp the concept if the Manifestation.
Chase sends Hatch's supplication to `AB in London, via Miss Julia Culver.
T. Chase to Ahmad Sohrab
c87 1p. Los Ang., 13 July 1911
"I am nearly well now, but cannot walk very far yet. I think I shall be better than I have
been for two years."
Chase sends Hatch's supplication to Sohrab for forwarding to `AB.
T. Chase to Mrs. A. M. Bryant
c87 2p. Los Ang., 13 July 1911
A necessary minor operation required Chase to stay in the hospital three weeks.
`Abdu'l-Baha is now in London. T. Chase thinks He will come to the USA.
Denver news.
House of Spir. is inactive, but this seems necessary.
T. Chase quotes Willard Hatch's supplication to `Abdu'l-Baha. He notes that it shows real
faith, unlike many ex-seekers. Hatch studied every ism imaginable.
T. Chase to Arthur Agnew
copy 81 3p. Los Ang., 14 July 1911
T. Chase is financially strapped; "My income is half, a little over half, what it was in
Chicago."
Chase hopes to make a few changes and print a second edition of the Bahai Revelation. The
printing cost $400.00
T. Chase doesn't like Cal., "Were it not for my faith, I should be utterly discouraged."
T. Chase to Willard Hatch
1p. Los Ang., 15 July 1911
Chase quotes Baha'i writings to Hatch. An inspirational letter.
T. Chase to Mrs. Lesch
c87 1p. Los Ang., 19 July 1911
T. Chase misses Chicago. "I can not feel `at home' out here." But the climate is nice.
Four Chicago Baha'is have gone to London to meet `AB.
Chase is glad to hear about "Goodsiah Khanum." Cjase would like a photo of her; Lesch has
one. He asks for a copy.
He lists all the Baha'is from Chicago and the east who have settled in Los Ang.
T. Chase to Mrs. Rabb
1 p. Los Ang., 19 July 1911
`Abdu'l-Baha will probably come to USA; He's in London now. "Those who are looking only to
see the personality will not see Him at all, but only him."
T. Chase to Willard Hatch
1p. Los Ang., 19 July 1911
He lists books that Hatch should read. He's read the Iqan; Chase recommends the Tarazat and
Ishraqat.
T. Chase to Willard Hatch
c87 4p. Los Ang., 22 July 1911
No notes.
John Bosch to T. Chase
2 p. Geyserville, Cal., 26 July 1911
Bosch hopes T. Chase's health returns; "I do not know of any resident person, who can fulfill
this responsible function [teacher] better than yourself."
Bosch is replying to T. Chase's letter to 7 July [lost].
Many Baha'is are "hung up" on reincarnation; Bosch hopes T. Chase will finish his book on it.
T. Chase to Ida Finch
c87 1p. Los Ang., 26 July 1911
Chase is isolated from affairs in Los Ang. and misses Chicago's activities.
"I am practically well again, and feeling better than for two years."
Chase aches to be in London today; probably at the Universal Races Congress.
Seattle meetings are doing very well; Finch isn't there right now.
Chase thinks `AB will come to the USA.
Hatch has declared.
T. Chase to Willard Hatch
1p. 28 July 1911
No notes.
T. Chase to Gertrude Buikema
Los Ang., 29 July 1911
No notes.
T. Chase to Willard Hatch
3p. 3 Aug. 1911
"I can not now write you of the `Greatest Name.' I hope to have the privilege at some time to
tell you about it. I know that it is already in your life and if it be not lived it is worthless."
T. Chase to Willard Hatch
copy 81 5 Aug. 1911
Chase congratulates Hatch on having a son. A beautiful, poetic letter. Attached is the poem
"The Warrior."
T. Chase to Nathaniel Clark of Denver
copy 3p. Los Ang., 7 Aug. 1911
The letter mentions many persons: Mrs. Roberts, Dr. Eels, Mrs. Blakemore.
Theosophy.
Man's will and submission to God.
Clark is the only male Baha'i in Denver.
Women.
`Abdu'l-Baha in Europe.
Los Ang.: 61 attended the meeting yesterday.
Copy of this letter made by someone else also exists.
T. Chase to John S. Crowley
copy 81 M91 SC Crowley pap. 1 p. Los Ang., 9 Aug. 1911
Thornton Chase Jr. is breaking into real estate.
The Pacific and Atlantic Oceans are different; T. Chase writes a long comparison. He lives
only 16 miles from the Pacific.
The Universal Races Congress. Miss Culver is going to it.
T. Chase to Miss Wilson
c87 1p. Los Ang., 9 Aug. 1911
All about Mirza Raffie. He's left for Persia. He is "inclined to be rather optimistic, but
perhaps that is a good failing in these times of rapid progress."
Sixty-one attended the last Sunday PM meeting.
T. Chase to Mrs. Mary B. Morrison of Denver
M109 SC, Morrison pap. 1 p. Los Ang., 15 Aug. 1911
T. Chase is sending her a tablet; who its to is not clear.
"I hope you are well in body, soul and mind. May the Divine Bounties shower upon you and
may your life attract other souls from spiritual illness and poverty to the Kingdom of Riches
and Eternal Health. Yours sincerely in His Name."
This is 1/3 of the whole letter. It is hand written, so Chase wouldn't have kept a copy.
T. Chase to Willard Hatch
1p. 16 Aug. 1911
T. Chase explains the Greatest Name. It once was given secretly; T. Chase complains now it is
used too freely. It starts with "Ya Baha El Abha!"
T. Chase to Willard Hatch
copy 81 August 1911
The poem to Hatch's son.
N. R. Vakil to Sec'y of Bahai Assembly of Washington, D.C.
c87 1p. 1 Sept, 1911
Mrs. Bethlen came to Bombay two weeks ago, on 23 August. She came from Calcutta, where
she spent ten days and did splendid work. She had been in Rangoon before that, and Japam
earlier. She gave several well-attended lectures in the Baha'i hall.
T. Chase to Gertrude Stanwood of Baltimore
c87 1p. Los Ang., 5 Sept. 1911
Chase quotes "God is nearer than the jugular vein."
T. Chase to Willard Hatch
M128SC Hatch pap. 1 p. Los Ang., 16 Sept. 1911
A letter from Miss Englehorn has taught his a great lesson. It was forwarded to him by Hatch.
"It shows the necessity of actual work of some kind on the part of each one who would be a
Bahai. Religion is LIVING, and all ethics, morals, or philosophies are of little account except in
so far as they are transmitted into deeds.... It is necessary for some kind of WORK to be found for
each Bahai; otherwise they die. This is a great problem before us--how we can put the friends
to work. As long as they are active in any Bahai work, there is no question of their firmness and
of their own assurance; but when their work ceases, they begin to doubt and stagger. The works
must be of such a character that they give the consciousness of performing service, whether it
be of `charity,' education, labor, self-denial, generosity or kindness. It must be of such a
nature that it affects the life and shows forth in personal expression."
`Abdu'l-Baha is in London.
T. Chase to Albert Windust
copy 83 1 p. Los Ang., 20 Nov. 1911
Chase went to San Fran., Portland, Seattle; he's "just returned." He was away from Los Ang.
for 6 weeks.
Tudor-Poole describes "the core of discord in this country." Probably a reference to a letter
from Tudor-Poole to Windust. Possibly Tudor-Poole's criticism of `Abdu'l-Baha worship in
Bahai News.
Chase says Seattle and Portland are "finely alive."
T. Chase asks Windust to send his manuscript back; "you cannot use it there." [El Abha?] T.
Chase says I'll print it myself.
T. Chase to Albert Windust
copy 83 1 p. Los Ang., 25 Nov. 1911
Chase is sending a copy of a poem; can you find any worth in it? [Probably "El Abha"]
T. Chase to Mr. W. Tudor-Poole of Bristol, England
copy 81 2p. Los Ang., 1 Dec. 1911
`Abdu'l-Baha's station; many misunderstand or exaggerate it.
T. Chase to Frank Hoffman
M97SC Hoffman pap. Los Ang., 6 Dec. 1911
No notes.
T. Chase to Mr. Willard Hatch
12 Dec. 1911
T. Chase misses Hatch; he's lonely in Los Ang. Most Baha'is live in the suburbs.
T. Chase to Ida Finch
Los Ang., 17 Dec. 1911
`Abdu'l-Baha tested him by giving him the name Thabit. Peter was named the rock; and he
failed!
YR 1912
T. Chase to Mrs. Emma Hahn
copy 81 2p. Los Ang., 27 Jan. 1912
She is a Baha'i in Milton, Conn., and invited T. Chase to visit.
T. Chase says "there is no prospect of going east for a while."
"I am not fond of this locality [Los Ang.], and would gladly escape it, but we have bought an
orange grove, and sold our house, and there is no prospect of our changing to elsewhere."
`AB's visit will prove to be a severe test. Chase is uncertain of its wisdom.
T. Chase to Mrs. A. M. Bryant
copy 81 3p. Los Ang., 7 Feb. 1912
The USA Baha'i community is described allegorically as a youth; a beautiful description.
`Abdu'l-Baha is expected in April. He will attend Lake Mohonk; may stay for a year. No
plans are known for his visit, though.
A non-Baha'i is contributing to the Mashriqu'l-Adhkar.
A lot on Sister Sanghamitta. Her Baha'i health seems to be improving. Perhaps she is free
from Phelps now; Chase is vague.
Chase has met Grace Robarts; she's in L.A. right now. She seems to be a Baha'i of the "real
right sort." She's ardent, also.
T. Chase to unknown
San Fran. archives Los Ang., 7 Feb. 1912
Mrs. Getsinger is going to Los Ang. to speak to the Socialists. Chase comments about them.
T. Chase to Alice Ives Breed
copy 82 Marzieh Gail personal pap. 2 p. Los Ang., 17 Feb. 1912
Persia is disintegrating. The Russians have invaded. T. Chase sees all of this as part of the
divine process.
`Abdu'l-Baha is on His was to USA; how marvelous it is.
Mrs. Khan is an important worker in the Faith; she has "wisdom, refinement and sanity."
T. Chase's penmanship is abominable and slow, so he types.
Mrs. A. M. Bryant to T. Chase
8 p. 19 Feb. 1912
She replies to a letter of his mailed about 1 week earlier.
`Abdu'l-Baha is coming; `Abdu'l-Baha said more unity would have to be apparent for Him to
come, and no more is apparent, but He is coming anyway.
Occultism. The Rosicrucians.
Sister Sanghamitta's health is very bad. [She discovered Baha'is at Green Acre practicing
black magic at night in a tent there. They were practicing it with Phelps. "She tried to draw P.
away from these illusions, but you know the spell was hard to break." This occurred in a tent
"remote from the grounds."]
T. Chase to Crowley
M91SC Crowley pap. 1 p. Los Ang., 26 Feb. 1912
A handwritten letter. Crowley's mother just died; its a letter of encouragement and
consolation.
"I know your heart is sad because of the seeming separation, and so I am sad with you,
because I love you--
"I am sure you loved her very deeply and nothing, not so-called death can sever that love. It
is that true love which is the essence of life; it is eternal, inseverable, a tie which shall surely
bring together those who are parted, whenever it is His will. Praise be unto His Holy Name!
The Wise One. The Knowing One! The Loving One! Who blesses us all with love--
Your brother and fellow.
Thornton Chase."
This is 3/4 of the entire letter.
T. Chase to James S. Topham
Los Ang., 27 Feb. 1912
The letter says it is dated 1912 on the back.
Christ and BH. Jesus's teachings have been corrupted through misunderstanding.
T. Chase to Howard MacNutt
c87 2p. Los Ang., 2 Mar. 1912
T. Chase describes how scattered the Los Ang. Baha'is are.
Chase wrote a second letter on the same day. In it T. Chase describes the business
opportunities in a rapidly growing southern California. Real estate, orange, walnut, and avocado
groves.
Sunday meetings have 40-60 in attendence. Unity Feasts are usually held in Tropico and
have about 15. Some Baha'is are in the area because of their delicate health.
Chase reflects on the advantages and disadvantages of `AB's visit.
Chase calls Hoar, Harris, MacNutt a "trio of firmness and sanity."
Alice Ives Breed to T. Chase
3 p. n.d. New York City, about 17 May 1912
`Abdu'l-Baha's visit in New York Boston, Wash. D.C. are mentioned. Mr. Gregory, Mrs.
Parson's and her receptions are particularly mentioned.
Shoghi Effendi, 13 years old, was turned back at Naples.
The letter was retyped by T. Chase on his typewriter. I have dated it from internal evidence.
T. Chase to Dr. G. Davidson Buchanan
copy 81 copy in Portland also 5p. San Fran., 12 June 1912
"The newspapers of the east have treated him [`Abdu'l-Baha] with uniform courtesy that is a
miracle in itself, when it is considered what opportunities for ridicule and satire are offered by
his appearance, dress, mannerism, etc."
Chase hopes to visit Portland, OR in a few weeks.
T. Chase to Albert Windust
copy 83 2 p. Los Ang., 22 June 1912
T. Chase was stuck in San. Fran. 2 1/2 months by "an abominable business matter," so he
could not go to Chicago when Abdu'l-Baha was there.
What was your reaction to `Abdu'l-Baha?
T. Chase commiserates about the burden of editing Star of the West.
T. Chase mentions a stereo photo of the Feast of Rizwan, 28 April, in Fruitvale. All of the
Bay area--about 80--were present.
T. Chase is going to Seattle, Portland, in a few weeks.
T. Chase to John Bosch?
Bosch pap. Los Ang., 6 July 1912
Troubles in Germany.
T. Chase to John Bosch?
copy 81 Los Ang., 26 July 1912
T. Chase's financial troubles are severe.
T. Chase to Mr. Bower
2p. 3 Aug. 1912
Thornton Jr. is working up in real estate. He is a good boy, but not religious. He has noble
principles.
On next Tuesday T. Chase travels to San Fran., Portland, Seattle.
`Abdu'l-Baha invited T. Chase to come east and visit Him before He sails for the east. But he
can't go.
Bower must be a nonBaha'i, I think. Chase sends him articles on `AB. Chase also tells him
about the opening of a new Presbyterian church near him.
Alice Ives Breed to T. Chase
c87 5 p. Cambridge, 6 Aug. 1912
The letter is addressed from 367 Harvard St., Cambridge. Mass.
`Abdu'l-Baha is staying in Dublin, NH. She visited Him "last Saturday" until "last evening."
He's staying at Mrs. Parsons's house. Sometimes He goes down to the inn; the altitude at her
house is too high and makes Him feverish.
`Abdu'l-Baha addressed "thirty colored people."
All `Abdu'l-Baha news is in Dublin, NH.
T. Chase to John Bosch?
copy 81 Bosch pap. San Fran., 9 Aug. 1912
`Abdu'l-Baha sends to telegrams to southern California. T. Chase thinks He will come west.
T. Chase to John Bosch
Bosch pap. San Fran., 6 Sept. 1912
T. Chase is paying Bosch back the money he borrowed. T. Chase writes and says he wishes he
could stay and see `Abdu'l-Baha. But he must leave for Los Ang. on Monday.
T. Chase to Ahmad Sohrab
copy 81 3p. San Fran., 7 Sept. 1912
T. Chase has been "on the road" for some weeks. He was up north.
T. Chase can't wait until `Abdu'l-Baha comes to the west coast. He fears `Abdu'l-Baha won't
visit Oregon, Washington state.
T. Chase was one week in Seattle, 10 days in Portland. He was ill 1 day. He is going to Los
Ang. on Mon. 9 Sept.
William Herrigel to T. Chase
7 p. Stuttgart, 15 Sept. 1912
A reply to T. Chase to Herrigel, June or July 9th 1912.
Three pages are in German, by Herrigel's wife. He writes good English. There is no news in
the letter.
The pages are small; 2 pages of 8 1/2 by 11 paper.
T. Chase to John Bosch
Los Ang., 24 Sept. 1912
No notes.
T. Chase to John Bosch
copy 81 Bosch pap. 1p. Los Ang., 26 Sept. 1912
T. Chase will have an operation in one hour.
Mrs. Ledge to John Bosch
copy 81 Bosch pap. Los Ang., 3 Oct. 1912
The letter describes T. Chase's death.
UNDATED (ALPHABETICAL)
T. Chase to `Abdu'l-Baha
undated
T. Chase wants to write a book disproving reincarnation. He says he believed in it for fifteen
years.
`Abdu'l-Baha's tablet of 9 Sept. 1909 was written in response to this letter; so it probably
dates from mid 1909.
Another copy of this letter is dated March 1910, 405 Exchange Bldg. Los Ang., Cal. It is
signed by T. Chase.
T. Chase to Mirza Abu'l-Fadl
n.d. (about June 1907)
Four days ago Chase hosted the Chicago feast. 40 Baha'is came. It also served as a welcoming
party for the returning pilgrims.
Next Sunday they will all go to Kenosha to tell of their pilgrimage. Scheffler may go along; he
should have arrived in New York today.
Only page 2 of the letter exists.
Willard Hatch to T. Chase
undated
Must date from 1909-1912, and from T. Chase's sojourn in Cal.
Hatch's supplication, and a brief description of his spiritual quest.
T. Chase to Arthur Agnew
copy 82 n.d. [about Jan. 1910]
Los Ang. news. No organization existed in Los Ang. when T. Chase arrived. Now, an Executive
Board has been formed. Weekly and monthly meetings are held.
The Haneys are there in Los Ang. T. Chase lists the others who are active. It is probably one
T. Chase's first letters to Chicago. Star of the West says Los Ang. organized in early 1910.
T. Chase to Mirza Asadu'llah
1p, Denver, n.d.
T. Chase hopes to leave on pilgrimage within 50 days. The President of the company has
agreed to give him a two month vacation for the purpose. Agnew is also asking for permission.
Chase's wife wants to go. The letter requests permission to go on pilgrimage. If the time is not
right, please cable.
Agnew is "the most even headed, the strongest and most wise teacher of all in this country, as
well as my intimate and well-beloved friend." So they hope to go together. Ameen may go with
them too.
Ellen V. "Mother" Beecher to T. Chase
4 p. 20 May [no year]
No notes.
Mrs. A. M. Bryant to T. Chase
1 p. n.d.
No notes.
Mrs. A. M. Bryant to T. Chase
4 p. n.d.
Her address is 1500 E 16th Ave, Denver.
Miss Farmer and Green Acre news. She met Miss Farmer in 1901.
Philadelphia news, through the McKinneys.
There were fifteen Baha'is at Naw-Ruz; nineteen normally would have been there, but four
were out of town.
The letter was probably written in June, I would guess between 1907 and 1909.
Spiritualists, Theosophists are mentioned in passing throughout the letter. Suggests the
Denver Baha'is had a close connection.
Mrs. A. M. Bryant to T. Chase
n.d.
Green Acre recognizes T. Chase as "one of our Baha'i leaders."
Chase was recently in Kansas City.
T. Chase to Ameen Fareed
n.d.
T. Chase writes that he has an important letter--I gather from Senator Teller, as it involves
Mr. Coe. Fareed is in the Holy Land.
Mrs. T. Chase to Helen Goodall
M9B1F42 undated
"It has taken all my strength and will to go through these papers--Fifteen hundred letters, I
have I have [sic] burned--personal letters-"
"Dear Thornton never gave up anything, in way of letters, clippings, [illegible], diaries,
etc--"
Mrs. Chase lists her address as 226 Rampart Blvd., Los Ang.
She mentions a ring T. Chase had. Mrs. Goodall bought it and contributed it to the National
Baha'i Archives.
T. Chase to Bernard Jacobsen
M135B2F32 Chicago, n.d.
Handwritten in hasty, large letters.
T. Chase requests a copy of 2 tablets Jacobsen recently received from `Abdu'l-Baha.
T. Chase to Ali Kuli Khan
n.d.
p. 2: Every Sat. evening the House of Spir. meets. They have one hour of business, 2 hours
of deepening on the Iqan, 2-3 pages each evening. Usually all 12 members are present.
The Bahai Publishing Society members are all on the House of Spir. and they work under the
advice and auspices of the House of Spir.
Haji Hassan Khurassani to T. Chase
1 p. Cairo, n.d. (in English)
Khurassani is sending tablets.
T. Chase to Mrs. Rabb
undated; about summer 1909
Chase talks a lot about the Bible.
There are 900 tablets in the archives; Tablets of Abdul Baha Abbas, vol. 1, is completed.
Mr. and Mrs. John Bosch to Mrs. Scheffler
copy 81 Bosch pap. Geyserville, 11 June 1936
It describes all the papers they destroyed.
T. Chase to Roy Wilhelm
n.d.
No notes.
T. Chase to Ahmad Yazdi
1p. Chicago, 1 Mar 190a [sic]
The letter is from after 1902.
No notes.
T. Chase to Mirza Munir Zayn
c87 n.d.
He write to Chase to ask him to send him a typewriter.
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Introduction
Notes, 1897-1902
Notes, 1903-1904
Notes, 1905-1907
Notes, 1908-1909
Notes, 1910-1912, + undated
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