On April 9th 1919, the ‘Southern Daily Echo’ of Southampton published the following article, giving a glimpse of the sense of anticipation that filled a hall when Hazrat Inayat Khan was about to give an address there.

The Messenger

An assembly, quietly seated, waiting in a long, lofty room, some with still hands folded and downcast faces; some gazing steadfastly before them, expectant eyed; others, in whom curiosity, waiting too, was held in abeyance as if restrained by a power that lived, bodiless, in the fragrance of incense that moved around and above, but invisibly.

It was a moment in which one dared breathe but ever softly, fearful of disturbing some unknown presence.

Amethyst cinerarias leaned pensively from fired blue pottery set here and there on small tables about the room.

Soundlessly awaited, he of whom all desired the sight came without sound in a robe of pale gold; on his breast a winged jewelled heart shone reposefully.

His face was a cradle of peace; tranquility spread out from him like a radiance that is felt only by the soul. All beautiful thoughts seemed to go home to rest in him.

He came with a message of Love, Harmony and Beauty. Indeed, he himself was his own Message – he typified all that he came to teach.

For a moment he stood in rapt concentration, seeking touch with the Infinite. And then the stillness was wonderfully charmed with the exquisite cadence of a low, mystical chant.

Suddenly he ceased his prayerful song and opened wide, shining eyes upon the gathering, shedding a benediction of intimate happiness.

Slowly he raised a caressing hand. “Beloved Ones of God,” he said.