A commencement was accordingly made, by giving lessons to such little girls as could be irregularly assembled for an hour or two a day at the Mission-house; such an informal beginning being not only all that the ladies had time to attempt, but being also considered desirable as less likely to excite jealousy and opposition.

For the project was entered upon with much trembling and apprehension.

Not merely indifference to female education had to be encountered, but strong prejudice against it existing in the public mind from time immemorial.

The Oriental prejudice against innovations from any quarter, and especially from foreigners, threatened resistance.

The seclusion of females within their own immediate circle of relationship, originally Oriental, but strengthened by Mohammedan influence, stood in the way.