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I propose to reciprocate your courtesy by being perfectly frank. . . .
Your letter is a plea for cooperation by the Congress party in the present administration and, failing that, in planning for the future. In my opinion, this required equality between the parties and mutual trust. But equality is absent and Government distrust of Congress can be seen at every turn. The result is that suspicion of Government is universal. Add to this the fact that Congressmen have no faith in the competence of Government to ensure India's future good. This want of faith is based upon bitter experience of the past and present conduct of the British administration of India. Is it not high time that you cooperated with the people of India through their elected representatives instead of expecting cooperation from them? . . .
The responsibility for what followed the hasty arrests of Congressmen must rest solely on Government. For they invited the crisis, not the authors of the resolution. . . .
As I visualize India today, it is one vast prison containing 400 million souls. You are its sole custodian. Government prisons are prisons within this prison. I agree with you that whilst you hold the views expressed in your letter under reply, the proper place for one like me is a Government prison. And unless there is a change of heart, view and policy on the part of Government, I am quite content to remain your prisoner. . . .