________________
the changing patterns and circumstances of today I found in him a man of wide reading, deep knowledge, and profound understanding of men and things I was happy that we were at one on many points
The impression I formed was that here is an unorthodox, unconventional saint This impression was confirmed when I read this book His well-built and almost athletic body, his penetrating and lustrous eyes, his serene, composed and handsome face with the beard lending an added majesty to his countenance, won my heart instantly, created in me confidence and faith in him No wonder that Smt Indira Gandhi who met him for a couple of minutes says"He looked very much like what one would imagine Christ to be and gave me an impression of deep peace"
I met him again a few days later On this occasion, I was greatly perturbed by the unaccountably hostile behaviour of a trusted friend, something within me had impelled me to seek his guidance I know not why or how _my contact with him had been the briefest, and yet I was drawn to him in my hour of trouble and inward tumult I went to see him by appointment but he was to go on a visit to the house of a disciple He asked me if I would go with him I readily agreed All the way we discussed some problems, especially Free Will and Destiny. We went to three places At the first, he blessed the members of a Middle Class famıly residing in a small room and
•
ix
