At the feet of The Mother and Sri Aurobindo

01 September 1934

MYSELF: Mother mine, here is the account of last month. You will see that I took ten rupees’ advance last month. May I take another ten rupees extra from Amrita, as I have bought some very good cheese for Sri Aurobindo’s sandwiches? I have signed my name and not yet paid the money. When I see anything especially good or nice anywhere I feel like buying it then and there for you and can’t remember about the money question. Though you have given me permission, can I go on like this? I feel I am too extravagant perhaps. What I have taken in advance I have kept back. May I take extra this time as I don’t think I shall be able to deduct the sum any more.

This is only a business letter.

SRI AUROBINDO: It is as you like. But why spend like that? You should make a rule not to exceed the means you have — so that you will train yourself to control the habit of too easy spending.

(1.9.34)