Nusserwan became fed up with his inconsiderate ways and demanding attitude. (Meredith demanded dozens of oranges and lemons for his special diet, for instance.) Margaret Ross was unwell and had been sent to Poona by train. Adi Sr. had made the best possible arrangements for having her admitted to the hospital; but on 7 December, Meredith sent him an angry note asking why Margaret and Esther had been sent by train instead of in Adi's car. Meredith had no regard for Adi's sacrifices or the expenses incurred. Baba was paying for everything, including the Westerners' passage to and from India, as Meredith had been called originally to bring boys from England to the school.
Baba discussed the situation with Rustom, Nusserwan and Adi to try to find a way to send the three back to England. Baba still had work to accomplish through Meredith, so he did not wish to alienate him. He came up with this ruse instead. On 10 December, Baba sent Meredith a note:
Meredith, I have been doing very important spiritual work these last few days. It has now become imperative that you leave for England at once. If you remain in India you will die! The two ladies will be saved, but you, being far advanced [spiritually], will die. Interference by me at this point is undesirable, for one of you must die if you remain in India any longer.
It is better you leave for England now. Besides, your presence in England is most desirable, essential at this time, because you have much work to do for me there. Since you are a friend of and will always work with the poor, travel to Bombay by the lowest class. Begin keeping silence and do not break the silence until you land in England.
The following day, Chanji was sent to personally explain Baba's wishes. Meredith was told never to mention Baba's name in any matter relating to finances or to refer to him for purposes of raising funds. He should talk about Baba only in spiritual matters, wherein Baba would always guide and help him.
Baba again wrote to him, "Meredith, leave India immediately and take the two ladies with you. It is very necessary; otherwise, you will leave your body!"
The ruse worked. After staying with Baba for six months, on the afternoon of 29 December, Meredith Starr bid farewell to Baba at Meherabad.