After about two and a half months at Mahabaleshwar, the Swami went to Poona. In his letter of June 15, to Haridasbhai, the Dewan of Junagadh, he wrote, "I came down with the Thakore Saheb from Mahabaleshwar, and am living with him. I would remain here a week or two more and then proceed to Rameswaram via Hyderabad." From the address on this letter, it appears that at Poona he stayed at Ellapa Balaram's house in the Neutral Line, where the Thakore Saheb had accommodation.

The Thakore Saheb, who had been initiated by the Swami, made this request: "Swamiji, do come with me to Limbdi and remain there for good." But the Swami replied, "Not now, Your Highness. For I have work to do. I cannot rest now. But if ever I live the life of retirement it shall be with you: However, he could not carry out this intention, for he passed away in the midst of his work.

From the Swami's letters it is found that instead of going to Rameswaram via Hyderabad, he went to Khandwa in the Central Provinces, sometime in the later part of June 1892.

ELLAPA BALRAM'S HOUSE_x000d_ C/O THAKORE OF LIMDI_x000d_ NEUTRAL LINE, POONA_x000d_ 15th June, 1892_x000d_ Dear Diwanji Saheb,_x000d_ It is a long time since I heard from you. I hope I have not offended you anyway.

I came down with the Thakore Saheb of Mahabaleshwar, and I am living here with him. I would remain here a week or more and then proceed to Rameshwaram via Hyderabad.

Perhaps by this time every hitch has been removed from your way in Junagad; at least I hope so.

I am very anxious to learn about your health, especially that sprain, you know.

I saw your friend the Surti tutor to the Prince of Bhavnagar. He is a perfect gentleman. It was quite a privilege to make his acquaintance; he is so good and noble-natured a man.

My sincerest greetings to your noble-minded brothers and to our friends there.

Kindly send to Mr. Nabhubhai my earnest good wishes in your letter home.

I hope you would gratify me by a speedy reply._x000d_ With my sincerest respects and gratitude and prayers for you and yours, I remain,

Yours faithfully,_x000d_ Vivekananda