Amrita's Correspondence with The Mother

18 May 1933

Mother,

Paying one person out of other people’s money introduces difficulty in accounting. For example, two or three days ago I received Rs. 133 from you. But at the time of payment I found that I needed Rs. 159. So I took the remaining amount from the money deposited with me by someone. And in the accounts book I marked Rs. 159 as if received from you. That doesn’t seem fair.

You must once for all stop touching to the money deposited with you. Each one must have his money in a separate envelope with the amount written clearly, and if he draws it out by instalments that must be written also with the date. Any other process can lead to much confusion and great bother. Remember what was on the point of happening with Dr. Manilal, and also how Becharlal took back his money with a fright. Such things must, by all means, be avoided.

I therefore suggest, first, that I pay only with the money I receive from you. The moment it is finished, I will simply say, “Tomorrow”. And second, that those who want money due to them and who have your sanction behind their claim must inform me at least 24 hours in advance in writing.

Of whom are you speaking? Not the people who have deposited money with you, I hope? For the money is theirs and must be given back at once on demand. Any other dealing is dishonest and cannot be tolerated.

18 May 1933