MARSEILLES,
23rd July 1899.

MY DEAR CHRISTINA,

Your very, very welcome wire just came. By next Sunday [1] we arrive in London, Albert Dock. [2] We are a party of four: myself, another Sannyāsin, [3] a Calcutta boy [4] going to study in America, and Miss [Margaret] Noble. Miss Noble is a young lady from Wimbledon, near London, who has been working in India on the education of girls.

ⓘ[1] Perhaps at Marseilles Swami Vivekananda received information that their ship, the S.S. Golconda, would reach London on Sunday (July 30, 1899); however, he later learned that it would reach there on Monday (July 31, 1899). In order to inform Christina of the change, the Swami sent her a telegram from Camberwell, B.O., on July 30: “Golconda due docks 6 a.m. Monday”.

[2] The S.S. Golconda actually arrived at the Tilbury Dock in London, instead of the Albert Dock, on Monday morning.

[3] Swami Vivekananda’s brother-disciple Swami Turiyānanda.

[4] Satish Chandra Chakravarty, Swami Sāradānanda’s brother.

Our stay in England will not be long, I am afraid, as this is neither the season nor am I in fit condition to work much. Anyhow, we will be in London a few weeks—at least myself—then go to the U.S. We will talk over all this and infinite things besides when we meet. I do not think even English summer days are long enough for all the chatter I will assail you with.

We go to Wimbledon for a day or two, and then I come back to London and find lodgings for myself and make plans.

Come to the Dock if that is possible and discreet. Yes, it is discreet, as there is a lady in the party and others will come to meet her. Only, Christina, don’t if you feel the least tired or unwell. I hope you are enjoying London immensely.

The Orientals do not like any effusion of feeling. They are trained to hide all expression.

Is Mrs. Funkey [Mary Caroline Funke] with you? If so, give her my best love.

I am much, much better just now. I am really quite another man this time. I was nearly dead in Calcutta when I started, but this voyage has improved me immensely.

Hoping soon to see you,

Ever yours in the Lord,
VIVEKANANDA.