October 1, 1972 (31)
Beloved,
Today was another very dull day. Without
you, my hours seem empty. I woke up early at 8h00AM. and went for breakfast,
then made my way to the villa. The painters were busy working, and I took time
to select the colours for our new home. If the contract can be signed this
week—and if the decision rests solely with me—it will indeed be signed. I am
hopeful that we will be able to move in by the end of the week.
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| André, Angel, Éric, Sunita and Marc in New Delhi |
At 7h00 PM, I went out for dinner. In the
staircase, I unexpectedly met Brother Tremblay, a Jesuit Brother. We had
travelled together on the same boat when I first came to Asia. It was
comforting to share a meal with him and recall those memories. After dinner, I
returned to my room, and now I sit in front of this paper, reflecting on a
truly lonely day.
My thoughts are entirely focused on
tomorrow, as I hold onto the hope that I will receive a letter from you to ease
my worries. I am deeply concerned—why have you not written? Why am I not
receiving any news? I can only hope the postal service is to blame for this
silence.
Dearest, how are you? How is Eric? Are you
both well? I promise myself that this will be the last time we endure such poor
communication between us. This separation feels like hell, and I cannot bear it
any longer.
After finishing these words, I will read
more and then go to bed, marking the end of the first month of our separation.
What a month it has been! Please, my love, take good care of yourself and of
Eric. Stay happy. I long for you and count the days until I can hold you in my
arms again.
My respect to our family, especially to father and mother. ILEHK infinitely and tenderly. A big, big hug to Eric. André
October 2, 1972 (32)
Beloved,
Today, I find my mind to be more at peace.
This morning, I received a letter from you, reassuring me of your good health.
I was relieved to hear that Eric, after undergoing a check-up and taking
medicine, is now in much better condition. Your news has calmed much of the
worry that had weighed on me.
Another concern troubling me was the
finalization of the villa contract. Thankfully, matters are improving on that
front as well. This afternoon, I returned to the landlord with all the clauses
that the Government of Canada requires in the lease agreement. At last,
everything is resolved, and we have managed to reach an agreement. The Canadian
Commissioner is now set to sign the contract on Wednesday afternoon, and the
house should be ready by Tuesday, 1972-10-10, before your arrival.
Regarding your journey, I will make
reservations from here for two seats on Air France and secure a room at the Taj
Hotel in Bombay. If all goes as planned, I do not anticipate any issues making
these bookings from Saigon.
As for the war situation here, please do
not be anxious. In Saigon, you would scarcely believe that we are in a country
at war. There is no cause for concern about safety or security. If there were
any real danger, I would certainly not ask you to come so soon. Moreover,
everyone here encourages your arrival whenever you wish; no one has asked me to
delay your coming. You see!
This evening, I am invited to dine with the
army general of the Canadian delegation. Please continue to take good care of
yourself and of Eric. I am very pleased to hear that father has become a good
friend to Eric, and that you received the photos and money. Last night, I dreamt
of you—it was not such a pleasant dream. Tonight, I am sure my dream will be
much sweeter.
With infinite love and kisses, André
Editorial note: Letter October 3.
1972 (33) is missing.
October 4, 1972 (34)
Beloved,
This is my last letter to you before your
return, as I am now certain that you will be arriving on October 12th. Earlier
today, I received a telegram from Dave Veitch in New Delhi confirming your
travel plans. I am sending this final message because I believe that after
today, you will no longer be in Reddipalem to receive any more letters from me.
I hope that your journey “home” goes smoothly and is filled with comfort.
While I am confident that Dave Veitch has
arranged all the necessary reservations, I will also confirm everything from my
end to ensure that nothing is left to chance. Regarding our villa, everything
is progressing well, and the lease is scheduled to be signed today at 2h00 PM,
as planned. As for household help, I have begun the process of looking for
suitable staff and have already interviewed a few candidates. We will see how
this develops.
My love, I understand it may be difficult
for you to leave your family once again. If you find it hard, remember that we
are not far apart, and soon we will have the opportunity to return to India. In
fact, before leaving Hyderabad, Marreddy mentioned the possibility of the four
of us—Marreddy, Mary, you, and me—travelling throughout India in December 1973.
I did not decline the idea. Should that plan not work out, we can always
arrange another visit, and there is also the prospect of travelling back to Canada
via India, allowing us to spend more time with your family. As you can see,
there is no cause for worry.
So, my darling, remain joyful and keep
smiling. We are truly blessed. Please convey my best regards to all our family
members in India. I am grateful to have met everyone in person and to finally
put faces to names. This experience has deepened my understanding of you and
your stories, which I cherish greatly.
Please take good care of yourself and of
Eric. I hope your journey from Hyderabad to Saigon is without any difficulties.
Should you need assistance, do not hesitate to ask the stewardess or fellow
travellers. I am eagerly awaiting your arrival. I love, know, and embrace you
with all my heart.
Yours always, André
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| Éric with his Thathaya |