112 CEYLON BRANCH— ROYAL ASIATIC SOCIETY. 



considerable portion of the popular literature of the natives. A 

 translation therefore of a few of the verses, and an account of 

 some of the legends may not be unacceptable. 

 The following are the first verses in the series. 



1. Apannaka Jatakan. 



Some persons speak indisputable truths, reasoners speak di- 

 versely : the wise man, understanding this, chooses that which 

 is indisputable. 



2. Wannupatha Jatakan. 



The energetic man found water by digging, even in the sandy 

 road frequented by travellers : thus the sage, endued with per- 

 severing energy, obtains by diligent exertion mental tranquillity.. 



3. Seriwanija Jatakan. 



If you now fail in attaining the advantages of true religion,, 

 long and bitterly will you repent it, as was the case with the 

 merchant Seriwayo. 



4. Chulla-setti Jatakan. 



The wise and observing man will even by small means: 

 raise himself to affluence, even as a large fire is kindled by 

 few materials. 



5. Tartdula-nali Jatakan. 



[Only a fragment of this verse is found in the copies to which) 

 f have had access, that fragment is] 



What is the value of a measure of rice ? Benares, with the 

 adjacent territory. 



6. Dewa-damma Jatakan. 



Peaceful good men, modest, fearing sin, and endued with vir- 

 tue, are even in this world called divine. 



7. Katta-hari Jatakan. 



I am thy son, great King ! Ruler of the people support me ! 

 Princes maintain their dependants; why should a prince not d® 

 the same for his own progeny. 



8. Gamini Jatakan. 



His desires will be accomplished who observes the precepts of 



