Baba visited the studio of an artist named Charles from
2:00 to 3:30 P.M., where he sat for a portrait. Minta accompanied him. Purdom's wife Lillian came to see Baba later that afternoon, as did
Tod's sister. When Tod's brother Malcolm was introduced to Baba, he
mentioned that he had been drawn to Catholicism, but then concluded that the
Church had commercialized Christ's mission and was leading people away from
his teachings.
Baba commented, "It has always been the case with religions
everywhere."
To a well-known novelist, Baba stated, "I am
eternally happy and my only mission is to impart this happiness to others."
A birthday party for Anita was celebrated that night.
Will and Mary Backett too dearly loved Baba and he also
had great love for them. This couple wished Baba to visit their home, but they
did not say anything to him about it.
On the 19th, Baba unexpectedly mentioned
to them, "I will come to your house tomorrow and you should serve us all
tea."
This pleased them enormously, but they worried at the same time, for
there were about 30 people in Baba's group and the Backett's tiny
cottage had only three or four chairs and an equally small number of cups. They
wondered how to arrange things on such short notice, and were fearful of not
being able to accommodate everyone.
Without their saying a word to him, Baba solved their
problem by announcing to the group the next morning, "We all are going to
tea at Will and Mary's today. Everyone should bring a cup and saucer, and
should sit on the floor when we get there."
At this act of understanding
and compassion, Will and Mary's hearts were overcome with love.
Baba and the group drove the 20 miles to Old Oak Cottage,
the Backett's residence in Halstead near Sevenoaks, Kent. Their cottage
had been built on a small hill above a valley. The car had to stop on the far
side of the valley as the track was too rough and steep to drive on. All got
down and walked. On the way they met two children and Baba greeted them warmly.
Baba walked
through each room of the cottage, viewing them carefully.
He spelled on the board,
"This is my house."
Tea and cakes, homemade bread and jam were served. Baba ate very little but drank some tea. After an enjoyable afternoon, Baba was driven back to London
by Donald Slow, of the London group.
Later, Will wrote to Baba: "I cannot even now fully
realize what you have given us, though I do get glimpses. I am just a child in
your loving arms, filled with joy and happiness, and the strength and divine
beauty which enfold me and all ... and again I thank you beyond the power of
words for having drawn us to yourself and enfolded us in your love."