CHAPTER 77

Summary

• The chapter starts with Lenin waking up after having tumor surgery conducted by Dr. Digby Kilgour and Mariamma. Lenin and Mariamma are at Saint Bridget’s Leprosarium.
• Lenin was smuggled in from the Gwendolyn Gardens, as it was too dangerous up there.
• Mariamma questions herself as to why Lenin does not ask how they took his headache away. She explains to him that he has a tumor, an acoustic neuroma, which was causing increased pressure in his head.
• Lenin's operation did not remove the tumor but temporarily reduced the pressure above it. The pressure is expected to rise again.
• Lenin recalls when he was ready to take a cyanide capsule to kill himself, but then changed his mind.
• Kilgour insists on getting Lenin to Vellore for treatment as soon as possible, but Lenin is resistant. Digby and Mariamma agree to take him to Vellore against his wishes.
• Mariamma and Crypts drive Lenin across India to Christian Medical College Hospital in Vellore.
• Upon their arrival, Lenin is taken through testing and Dr. Digby advises Mariamma to call the editor of the Manorama to inform them about Lenin's situation to ensure no harm comes to him.
• The operation in Vellore to remove the remaining tumor is successful, but some parts are left behind due to being dangerously adherent.
• The chief of the hospital suggests that Mariamma may be the right person to train for a new intricate surgery technique where they can remove the tumor entirely.
• The chapter ends with the chief, revealing to Mariamma that Lenin is being watched by the local police and she will need to help ensure that he doesn't leave.