April — sept. 1859.] On Indian Weights and Measures. 17 



" discussed by those qualified to give an opinion before any one 

 " system is authoritatively adopted." 



He divides his subject into four heads, and treats them in the 

 order we have written them down. 



1. Linear Measure. 



2. Superficial do. 



3. Weight. 



4. Measure of capacity. 



Had Mr. Bayley's intention been to set forth a system that 

 would provide a perfect corrective for the metrology of India and 

 England, so that without altering the denominations of the weights 

 and measures in use in either country, they might nevertheless be 

 adjusted in conformity with each other and with some known stand- 

 ard, he could not have advocated a better system than that ex- 

 plained by Captain T. B. Jervis of the Bombay Engineers in his 

 book entitled An Essay on the Primitive Universal Standard of 

 Weights and Measures. But as neither the metrology of England 

 nor the numerous systems of India correspond with Captain Jer- 

 vis' Primitive Standard, nor are regulated by it, the next best 

 thing to be done is to have some system arranged, which retain- 

 ing as far as practicable the old Native names and " traditionary 

 standards" will admit of the weights and measures of both coun- 

 tries being in some degree assimilated. 



In respect to Linear and Superficial measures, the English sys- 

 tems are already (as Mr. Bayley points out) in extensive use among 

 Natives, and therefore no difficulty need be anticipated in their 

 complete introduction. There is this, moreover, that renders a new 

 system of Linear measure easier of introduction than new mea- 

 sures of weight and capacity, viz., that there is no uncertainty nor 

 mystery about a yard measure. Its exact measure is apparent. 

 It allows of a Native easily comparing its relative length with his 

 own hat'h (cubit), adee (foot) or guz (ell). It creates no doubt 

 in his mind. He can readily test its length (more majorum) by his 

 own forearm. Whereas the exact magnitude or otherwise of 

 measures of weight and capacity cannot be so determined by 

 sight or touch and do not admit of such ready test and verification. 



Moreover in regard to superficial measure we may add, that it 

 Vol. xx. o. s. Vol. yi. n. s. 



