Satyagrahashram,
Sabarmati,
Dated 7-9-'28
DEAR FRIEND,
I have your letter. I have never quoted Tolstoy or any other author
without acknowledgment in any of my writings. And I do not remember
having often quoted authors in my writings; not because I would not
but because my reading is so poor and capacity for reproducing what
I have read is still less.
The vow of celibacy was undoubtedly taken after I had acquired considerable
acquaintance with Tolstoy's teachings. And, whilst it is as a general
statement quite true that my life is based upon the teachings of the
Gita, I would not be able to swear that Tolstoy's writings and teachings
did not influence my decision about celibacy.
So much for your satisfaction. I hope at some date to deal with your
vital question in the pages of Young India.
Yours sincerely,
M. K. GANDHI
From a photostat: S.N. 14378