Signing up with the 'Slayton-Lyceum Bureau'

Sometimes we just have to rely on Swamiji’s words when He says - He began to whirl to and fro! While in Chicago as he got famous and people thronged for his lecture. Naturally  there were people who thought of taking advantage of this fact and mint money.

He signed up with a `Slayton Lyceum Bureau' somewhere in the early winter months and started his Midwestern tour. About these 'whirlings' he talks very little. His purpose behind signing with the bureau must be – 

1) to broadcast the truth about the Indian culture, customs and the religion which was wrongly and systematically misrepresented in America by the missionaries.

2) the need to earn money to support himself and to collect money for his work in India.

Mr. Slayton came to know from the Chicago newspapers that he had a prize on the list. This belief got confirmed by a letter from a Congregational minister, Dr. W.H. Thomas. This letter was used by Mr. Slayton as an advertisement or Swamiji’s lectures. Let’s read the letter in full –

Dear Mr. Slayton:

'Of the many learned men in the East who took part in the great World's Parliament of Religion, Vivekananda was the most popular favorite, and when it was known that he was to speak thousands were turned away for want of room. Nor was it curiosity alone that drew the masses; for those who heard him once were so impressed by the magnetism of his fine presence, the charm and power of his eloquence, his perfect command of the English language and the deep interest in what he had to say, that they desired a11 the more to hear him again. It will be the opportunity of a life time for the cities of our land to see and hear this noble, earnest, loving Brahmani dressed in the costume of his order, and telling the true story of the religions and customs of his far - off country.'

Affectionately,

W. H. Thomas.

Mr. Slayton somehow persuaded Swamiji in signing a three year contract with his bureau.

Folks, let’s read more about it tomorrow.

Have organized a Blood Donation Camp in my office tomorrow. Today for the first time finished reading the biography on Saradama – ‘Holy Mother’ by Swami Nikhilananda. What a life!!

My Test Day is approaching... have to speak about the Holy Mother & Swamiji - 'Matrubhakt Swamiji' on 18^th!