Bili Eaton had run back to the kitchen and asked Kitty if there were any lozenges. Someone ran for a pack in their cabin, and Energy, on her trip to town, brought back six packets. At lunch, Kitty asked Baba how his throat was, and this was how the whole story came out.
Baba continued, "That does not mean that I cannot have a sore throat. I do have sore throats. I do have colds. I am susceptible to all the ailments. Universal suffering I take on myself, but at this moment, I am not suffering.
"This morning, Mrs. Duce and Don Stevens told me, 'Baba, try to be ready at 12:30 because the TV program is arranged, and you will be wanted at 12:30.' After leaving the Barn, I walked the distance to my house and after a hasty lunch there, I returned to be here at exactly 12:30. Now it is 1:30, and there is no sign of either Don Stevens or the television people or Ivy Duce!"
Ivy stepped forward and said, "I'm here."
Baba continued, "At 2:30, I will be in the Barn, because people will be there. Elizabeth tells me it is announced in the local newspaper that I will give an audience from 2:30 onwards. Then Kitty told me, 'Baba, please do not go there because the television program begins from here [the Guest House].' Now, I just ask you all whether I should stay here! I want your answer, Mrs. Duce, what should I do now?"
Ben Hayman quipped, "You might as well leave it to her, it will be that way anyhow!" At which all dissolved into laughter.
Ivy solemnly said, "Baba, what is your will in me to say?"
Baba beckoned her to speak up, and she said, "Well, it is not yet 2:30. You can wait until that time." Thereupon, more discussion followed between Baba, Elizabeth and Ivy about what Baba would do when the TV people arrived. Finally, Ivy said, "Baba, why don't you do what you please until 2:30 and see what happens in the meantime?"
To which Baba replied, "I will do what I want. I will never listen to anyone. It has been my habit — my ages-old habit — I do what I know is best for you all. I will never listen to any suggestions. Whatever is best for you all, I do, because I know.