Jayantilal's Correspondence with The Mother

c. 1946

Mother,

My father wishes me to go and see him for a few days. He is an invalid and cannot leave his bed. Both his legs have become stiff and gradually the hands are also becoming like that. I have an idea that he may live only a few months more. In my mother's case too I have a strong feeling of her coming death. I am very grateful to my father. He has proved an ideal father for me. He has given me the best of everything and has asked for nothing in return.

When I came to you, I had the idea that I would see my parents once before they pass away and that too to satisfy them. I am neither desirous nor anxious nor would anybody question me if I did not go, but this idea propels me. I will be very happy to do your wish.

You can go to see your father—but I would like you to go only when the school closes, that is to say after the 2nd of December, and come back before the first of January when the school reopens—as the lessons must not be neglected.

c. 1946