After showing deference to the Master, [E.G.] Browne immediately began to discuss matters of the past. He wished to explain himself, and sought the Masters forgiveness for what had taken place. The Master replied,
“We should discuss other matters - matters that will generate feelings of love.”
Realizing that the Master had no interest in dwelling on the past, Browne changed the subject. He inquired about the current situation in Persia and the Ottoman Empire. The Master replied:
“I have previously written that, for as long as the government and the people are not mingled together like milk and honey, prosperity shall remain unattainable. Persia shall fall into ruin, and as a result, the governments of neighbouring countries will work to meddle in its affairs.”
The Master elaborated further on the same subject, saying:
"You must strive to transform the characters of the people, such that they will become receptive to constitutionalism and other matters. Should this not occur, fresh problems will beset you with every passing day, and anguish and despair will increase. Consider how acquired knowledge, when not aligned with a refined character, becomes the cause of harm. Indeed, if the acquisition of knowledge is coupled with the best of characters, that knowledge will bring about marvellous results . . . Material progress and civilization alone will not suffice, and the acquisition of knowledge by itself will not result in complete prosperity."
- 'Abdu'l-Baha (Words of ‘Abdu’l-Baha, 18 December 1912, London, England recorded by Mahmud Zarqani, His secretary and chronicler during His travels in the West; ‘Mahmud’s Diary’, vol. 2: ‘Abdu’l-Baha in Europe 1912-1913)