Letter to Mr Homi Modi

Summary

This three-page handwritten letter, dated 16 July 1959 and signed “Ruttonchund Master,” is addressed to “Sir Homi” and offers a personal tribute to an unnamed public figure. The writer recalls reading biographies of Napoleon Bonaparte, Hitler, and Mussolini, and contrasts the political spectacle and “grovelling” associated with mass leaders with the subject’s more enduring service to public life. He describes the last thirty years as a period in which he witnessed major changes, including the subject’s rise and public reputation.

The letter combines reminiscence with a series of specific anecdotes. It recalls encounters involving prominent Bombay and Indian public figures, an episode concerning a large cheque and a bank deposit, and the subject’s political and civic associations. The closing celebrates a life of public activity and continuing influence, while acknowledging that the writer is composing the account late in life. The summary is based on all three rendered pages; the handwriting is sometimes difficult to decipher, and the letter’s precise honouree cannot be established confidently from the visible text alone.

Key points

• The letter is dated 16 July 1959, written from Rukhamani Mahal, Jogeshwari, Bombay-42, and signed by Ruttonchund Master.
• The correspondent addresses “Sir Homi” and presents the letter as a personal account or tribute.
• The writer reflects on biographies of Napoleon Bonaparte, Hitler, and Mussolini before discussing political spectacle and mass leadership.
• The letter describes the subject’s public life over roughly thirty years and emphasizes service, reputation, and influence.
• Several anecdotes concern meetings with prominent figures, financial transactions, banking, and political or civic activity.
• The final page mentions J. S. Mill and refers to the subject’s continuing ability to write and command respect.