2. Once it comes, the fever does not easily leave those who have never had it before.

(Translated from Bengali)

Glory to Ramakrishna

GHAZIPUR.

February 11, 1890.

RESPECTED SIR,

I have received your book. In Hrishikesh, Kāli [Swami Abhedānanda] has had a relapse and is again suffering from what seems to be malaria. Once it comes, the fever does not easily leave those who have never had it before. I too suffered the same way when I first had the attack of fever. Kāli has never had the fever before. I have not received any letter from Hrishikesh. Where is …?

I am suffering terribly from a backache which began in Allahabad. I had recovered from it some time back, but it has recurred. So I will have to stay here awhile longer because of my back and also because Bābāji [Pavhāri Bābā] has requested it.

What you have written about uncooked bread is true. But a monk dies that way, not like the breaking of a cup and saucer. This time I am not going to be overcome by weakness in any way. And if I die, that will be good for me. It is better to depart from this world very soon.

Your servant,
NARENDRA.