Gandhi’s note to Lord Mountbatten written during their meeting, 2 June 1947
What emerged was a recommendation for a swifter transition to independence, and for partition. Meetings on 2 and 3 June with the Indian leaders made the crucial decisions. Immediately after the meeting of 2 June, Lord Mountbatten met with Gandhi, whose assent was crucial. To the Viceroy’s amazement and relief, Gandhi indicated on the back of a series of envelopes that he was keeping a day of silence. ‘I am sorry I can’t speak. When I took the decision about the Monday silence I did reserve two exceptions ... But I know you don’t want me to break my silence ...’
