232 Literary Discoveries in India. 



who are ready to receive it. The translation of the New 

 Testament (which it is proposed to print first) has already com- 

 menced, under the siiperintendance of the Syrian bishop. 

 The true cause of the low state of religion amongst the 

 JRomish churches on the sea-coast and in Ceylon is, ihsir 

 tvantofthe Bible. It is doubtful whether some of the priests 

 know that such a book exists ! It is injurious to Christi- 

 anity in India to call men Christians who know not the 

 scriptures of their religion : they might as well be called by 

 any other name. Oral instruction they have none, even 

 from their European priests. The best effects may there- 

 fore be expected from the simple means of putting the Bible 

 into their hands. All who are well acquainted with the na- 

 tives, know that instruction by books is best suited to them. 

 They are in general a contemplative people, and patient in 

 their inquiries ; curious also to know what it can be that is 

 of importance enough to be written, — at the same time that 

 they regard written precept with respect. If they possess a 

 book in a language \vhich they understand, it will not be 

 left long unread. In Tanjore, and other places where the 

 Bible is freely given, the Protestant religion flourishes ; and 

 produces the happiest effects on the character of the people. 

 Jn Tanjore the Christian virtues will be found in exercise by 

 the feeble-minded Hindoo, in a vigour and purity which 

 will surprise those who have never known the native cha- 

 racter but under the greatest disadvantages. On the Sunday, 

 the people, habited in their best apparel, repair to the parish 

 church, where the solemnity of their devotion in accom- 

 panying the public prayers is truly impressive. They sing 

 the old psalm tunes well ; and the voice of the full congre- 

 gation may be heard at a distance. Prayers being ended, 

 they listen to the sermon evidently with deep attention ; nor 

 have they any difliculty in understanding it, for they almost 

 all, both men and women, can read their Bible. Many of 

 them take down the discourse on ollas, that they may read 

 it afterwards to their families at home*. As soon as the 



* It is well known thai natives of Tanjore and Travancore can write down 

 ■wliat i? spoken deliberately, v,'itliout losing one word. They seldom look at 

 their ollas while writing, and can write in the dark with fluency. 



minister 



