i835.] Biographical sketch of Col. Machenrde. 271 



18. It is also proper to observe, that in the course of 

 these investigations, and notwithstanding the embarrass- 

 ments in the way of this work, the first lights were 

 thrown on the history of the countrij below the Glials, 

 which have been since enlarged by other materials con- 

 stantly increasing, and confirming the information ac- 

 quired in the upper country. Among various interest- 

 ing (Subjects may be mentioned, 



L The discovery of the Jaina religion and philo- 

 sophy, and its distinction from that of Budd'ha. 



2. The different ancient sects of religion in this 

 country, and their subdivisions — the Lingavan-- 

 ta, the Saivam and Pandaram Matts, &c. &c. 



3. The nature and use of the Sassanams, and in- 

 scriptions on stone and copper, and their utility 

 in throwing light on the important subject of 

 Hindu tenures ; confirmed by upwards of 3000 

 authentic inscriptions collected since 1800^ hi- 

 therto always overlooked. 



4. The design and nature of the monumental stones 

 and trophies found in various parts of the coun- 

 try from Cape Comerin to Delhi, called Virakcd 

 and Maastikal, which illustrate the ancient cus- 

 toms of the early inhabitants, and» perhaps, of 

 the early western nations. 



5. The sepulchral tumuli, mounds, and barrows of 

 the early tribes, similar to those found through- 

 out the continent of Asia and of Europe, illus- 

 trated by drawings, and various other notices of 

 antiquities and institutions. 



19. On the conclusion of the field duties of the My- 

 sore survey, the compilations resulting from it have since 

 at different times occupied much attention. An office 

 was conferred on me in Mysore, which was afterwards 

 confirmed by the Court of Directors, for the purpose of 

 following up the investigations, and digesting- and im- 



