Page 394 - Neglected Arabia Vol 2

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[ XIiGIJiCriil) . IK.1111.1 II

was stressed as always and courses were given in < )ld Testament and ihe
Gospels of Matthew and John, "The hoys did not display the same good
spirit in the Bible classes, as had been my .experience before. I think
the reason for this was the fanatical attitude of one or two of the larger
»
hoys. There was one especially who tried in every way to show his dis­
pleasure, coming to prayers late and making as much noise as possible
and, as often as opportunity arose, contradicting all that was said.” Three
of the older boys who had been very regular in their attendance suddenly
stopped coming. When inquiry was made it was found that they had
taken offense at the statement that Mohammed was not a prophet. 'This
was cleared up but they brought other charges and finally challenged to
a debate on the comparative greatness of Christ and Mohammed. The
challenge was accepted but nothing came of it and the three trouble-makers
returned to the school, dropping the affair. Night school was held three
nights a week with good attendance.
The Girl’s School at Bahrain worked with a faculty of two, plus part
lime help from Mrs. llakken. The total enrollment for the year was 107
;
(Jf which 76 were Moslems, 26 were Jews and 5 were Christians. Two
new subjects were added to the curriculum, Arabic Poetry and Tennis, the
latter taking the place of the regular physical culture. Equipment was
increased by the purchase of 12 new desks, and a new verandah for play
space in rainy weather was added. Also, wiring for electricity was done.
k There have been the usual special days throughout llu* year. Christmas
i party, May Day party, etc:, with the jidiled feature of a visit from the
i wife and daughter of the British Political Resident of the Gulf who were*
F- enthusiastic in their expressions of approval. Another feature was a spe­

cial meeting of the Literary Club called for guests. Mrs. Dame writes,
“The whole program was managed by the Program Committee composed
'
of girls. When the day came we had a good number of guests (each
manlier could invite two) and the program was absolutely splendid. In
moments of exultation like this, one forgets ail one’s ta’ab (work) and
toil and feels that it has been most worthwhile. These girls can sing,
recite poetry, read from books and newspapers, compose and make
speeches, One is gladdened at the sound of the high ideals put forth
in these speeches.' All of which power and force Ims been i/cncratcJ by
the school. One of our girls was chosen to be a teacher in the government
school and, as the pupils we lost, formed the backbone of the new school
we can rejoice that we have been the means of making a substantial con­
tribution to the educational program of this island. Friendly and cordial
relations have lieen maintained between the faculties of the two schools
and a lively rivalry manifested among the pupils.” 'There is a very strong
appeal for more space and another full time teacher, involving more
money. “We positively can not stand the slightest cut as our present
small appropriation if cut any more would soon be invisible. 'This school
is being run for the magnificent sum of $33.00 a month. Does it pay?
Is it worthwhile? I doubt if an equal amount invested at home would
begin to touch as many individuals or bring in such large returns in
personal happiness, enrichment of lives, and upholding of Christian ideals.
And this work is being done for the children who are some of ‘the least
: of these/ We thank all those at home who have so generously contributed
dolls, pencils, pads and other school supplies in the Guild boxes. 'These
r articles have been a great help and are much appreciated."