G. lheidé's Reply
Ido not know in what terms to Praise you. Your love and your character fascinate me and so also your self-examination. | am not fit to measure your worth. I accept your own estimate and assume the position of a father to you. You seem almost to have met a long-felt wish of mine. In my view a father is, in fact, a father only when he has a son who surpasses him in virtue. A real son, likewise, is one who improves on what the father has done; if the father is truthful, firm of mind and compassionate, the son will be all this in a greater measure. This is what you have made yourself. I don’t see that you owe your achievement to any effort of mine. Hence, I accept the role you offer to me as a gift of love. I shall strive to be worthy of it; and, if ever I become another Hiranyakashyapu, oppose me respectfully as Prahlad, who loved God, disobeyed him.
It is true as you say that, though outside the Ashram, you have scrupulously observed its rules. I never doubted that you would return. Besides, I had your written messages, read out by Mama. May God grant you long life, and use you for the uplift of India.
I don’t see any need for changes in your diet just yet. Do not give up milk for the present. On the contrary, increase the quantity, if necessary. .
About the railways, no satyagraha is required. What is wanted is intelligent workers to carry on Propaganda. On the issue in Kheda District, satyagraha may Possibly have to be offered. I am something of a tramp these days. In a day or two, I shall have to leave for Delhi.
More when you arrive. Everyone is looking forward to seeing you.
Blessings from Bapu.
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