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The Old Cook has served in Krishnan's parents house when the latter was a child. She has gone to the village to live with her son. After her son's death, she returns to Krishnan's parents with a request to serve in their house. Krishnarn's mother does not need her services. She, therefore, sends her to her son's house in Malgudi. Susila resents the idea of engaging her in the house as it will entail more expenses by way of salary to her and the chances of greater wastage in kitchen jobs. But in deference to her mother-in-law's wishes, she accepts her on a monthly salary of six rupees. Later on, the old cook proves of much help to the family. She is a kindly old lady who works in the kitchen with due care and looks after the child diligently. She comes to acquire a necessary position in the house-hold of Krishnan. After her arrival, Susila and Krishnan can afford to spare time for a film or for each other's company. Her need is felt intensely when Susila and Krishnan have to go out together to Lawley Extension in search of a new house. They have to leave the child to some one's care.
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| The Old Cook |
The Old Cook has gone out of the house somewhere the previous evening. She is to return the next day. They leave Leela reluctantly to the servant's care thinking that the old cook will return well in time and take care of the child. They have great trust in her. She earns this position in the house because of her sincere hard work and genuine concern for the well-being of the family. She helps them with potions and preparations when the child suffers from stomach-ache or from some other trouble. Susila's continued illness worries her a lot. She asks Krishnan to get her treated by a doctor. Krishnan brings medicines and mixtures for his ailing wife from Dr. Shanker. She feels attached with the family where she is working. She reveals the character of a sincere, faithful, dependable and elderly house-maid.