Brother Russell invited A. A. Hart of London and S. J. Richardson, a colporteur in Singapore, to transfer to India. Hence, upon Hart’s arrival in 1913 he and Joseph journeyed to see Devasahayam at Neyyattinkara, and the three laid plans for the furtherance of the work.

Meanwhile, Brother Richardson arrived from Singapore and started working in Madras City. He preached mainly among the literate and English-speaking Anglo-Indian community who already professed to be Christians. Thus, in 1913, a small Bible study group was rounded in Madras City.

In view of possible disruption of all communications with America and Europe because of the war, Hart and Richardson were recalled to Britain in November 1914.