2343 So that they were not afraid to speak out openly, and protest the truth of the Unity which they clearly saw in their own minds and hearts. 2344 We may suppose them to have taken their stand and made a public protest before they betook themselves to the Cave (18:16). The story really begins at 18:13, and the verses 18:9-12 may be considered as introductory. As the emphasis is on spiritual lessons, the facts stated in the introductory part are passed over lightly in the story.