170§ JOURNAL, R.A.S. (CEYLON). [Vol. IX. 



and in the more populous districts, is well distributed, and 

 paddy cultivation is carried on with results only second to 

 those ensured by irrigation. Where such favourable circum- 

 stances are wanting, there is really only one remedy, and 

 that may be summed up in the single word "irrigation." 



I know no other of equal efficacy. Improved modes of 

 cultivation, new implements, and fresh seed, are all of 

 secondary importance. Where necessary, make the water- 

 supply tolerably secure, and we may and can rival India, if 

 we do not do so already, in the economical production of 

 paddy, though it may be a long day before we can entirely 

 overtake the local demand. Still, the fact remains that 

 while paddy cannot apparently be imported into Ceylon for 

 much under Hs, 1*50 per bushel, we can produce it in the 

 Island for one-third this sum at the very outside. 



