"My friend Rama and I were inseparable," Master began. "Because he
was shy and reclusive, he chose to visit our guru Lahiri Mahasaya
only during the hours of midnight and dawn, when the crowd of
daytime disciples was absent. As Rama's closest friend, I served as
a spiritual vent through which he let out the wealth of his spiritual
perceptions. I found inspiration in his ideal companionship." My
guru's face softened with memories.
"Rama was suddenly put to a severe test," Sri Yukteswar continued.
"He contracted the disease of Asiatic cholera. As our master never
objected to the services of physicians at times of serious illness,
two specialists were summoned. Amidst the frantic rush of ministering
to the stricken man, I was deeply praying to Lahiri Mahasaya for
help. I hurried to his home and sobbed out the story.
"'The doctors are seeing Rama. He will be well.' My guru smiled
jovially.
"I returned with a light heart to my friend's bedside, only to find
him in a dying state.
"'He cannot last more than one or two hours,' one of the physicians
told me with a gesture of despair. Once more I hastened to Lahiri
Mahasaya.
"'The doctors are conscientious men. I am sure Rama will be well.'
The master dismissed me blithely.
"At Rama's place I found both doctors gone. One had left me a note:
'We have done our best, but his case is hopeless.'
"My friend was indeed the picture of a dying man.
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