The house-rent was between sixty and sixty-five rupees. Surendra bore most of the expenses and had rented the house in his name. The other householder devotees contributed financial help according to their power. A cook and a maid had been engaged to look after the members of the house-hold.
MASTER (to Dr. Sarkar and the others): "The expenses are mounting."
DR. SARKAR (pointing to the devotees) "But they are ready to bear them. They do not hesitate to spend money. (To Sri Ramakrishna) Now, you see, gold is necessary."
MASTER (to Narendra): "Why don't you answer?"
Narendra remained silent. Dr. Sarkar resumed the conversation.
DR. SARKAR: "Gold is necessary, and also woman."
RAJENDRA: "Yes, his [meaning Sri Ramakrishna's] wife has been cooking his meals."
DR. SARKAR (to the Master): "Do you see?"
MASTER (smiling): "Yes — but very troublesome!"
DR. SARKAR: "If there were no troubles, then all would become paramahamsas."
BLOGGER'S VIEW
The comment of Dr. Sarkar is very apt. If there are devotees to bear Rs. 65 per month as rent in Kolkata of 1885, one can afford to hate gold! One can give sermons quite comfortably!
In those days, a large family could live with Rs. seven per month. Paying Rs. 65 for house rent, a princely sum!
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