Chapter 1October 3, 1970

(Mother gives Satprem a calendar notepad, then a felt pen.)

What color is it?

It’s violet.

The violet of power.

(Mother looks in vain for a green pencil for Sujata

and finally gives her a blue one)

Do you have something?

(Mother goes into a long contemplation. Her breathing is better, becomes peaceful, but now and then there are involuntary movements of the left leg and the shoulders, especially the right shoulder.)

Do you have anything?

Is there anything new?

(Mother shakes her head

and plunges in again)

Do you really have nothing to read me?

If you. like, I could read you my new book....109 It will be reassuring because I don’t know where I am going.

That’s good. I’ll be happy to hear it.

(Mother plunges in again)

It’s all right (in an unconvinced tone).

What time is it?

Quarter past eleven.