A similar zeal was manifested at Bitlis by a number of young men, who were studying at their own charges.
But there were trials.

Some of the young men in the Harpoot Seminary refused to exercise the self-denial necessary to live on the means allowed for their support, and returned to their homes; and a few of the graduating class preferred to enter secular business, rather than accept the salary offered.

This was not without its uses, as it confirmed a wholesome principle, and was the means of bringing some men, after a time, into the service under a more just apprehension of the true value of the ministry.
The Eastern Turkey Mission was painfully afflicted in 1865 and 1866.
The three families at Harpoot each lost two children; and Mrs.
Williams was called to her rest, depriving the mission of a highly valued and beloved member, and leaving her husband alone, in the sole charge of a difficult station.

Mr.and Mrs.Richardson were obliged by illness to visit their native land, and the Arabkir field was placed under the permanent care of the Harpoot station.
The Eastern mission had now ten missionaries, with as many female assistant missionaries, six native pastors, seventeen licensed native preachers, twenty-five native teachers, and thirty-two other helpers.

The out-stations had increased to forty-seven, eighteen of which were connected with Harpoot.