The response to recruitment was not
any way encouraging, but Gandhi was determined to carry out his mission. He
held meetings. He issued leaflets asking people to enlist in the forces. His
steady work began to bear fruit. Many men were recruited and he hoped to get a
bigger response as soon as the first batch had been sent.
Gandhi nearly ruined his health
during the recruitment campaign. He worked very hard. He could not take his
food at regular times, nor could he take enough nourishment to keep up his
energy.
He had an attack of dysentery. He
refused to take medicines and his condition became worse. Friends tried their
best to advise him but he was beyond all advice. He passed restless days and
nights and he himself felt at times that he was near death’s door.