Mormon does not explain how Alma found those who “would hear his word.” He probably exercised considerable caution, so as not to draw attention to himself and to teach only those he could trust not to betray him. The adverb “privately” also implies “secretly.” This was a careful and clandestine preaching of the gospel. Abinadi had already died for this gospel, and Alma was under a death sentence. Probably those who listened understood that they might also share Abinadi’s fate if they were caught. It is a strong testimony to their faith that they were not only willing to believe, but willing to believe under such harsh circumstances.