PBEFACE. 



Twelve years have elapsed since the last number 

 of the Madras Journal of Literature and Science has 

 appeared. It was published in October 1866 and 

 was the second volume of the third series. 



The Committee of the Madras Literary Society 

 and Auxiliary of the Royal Asiatic Society have 

 long been anxious to revive their Journal, but 

 it was not until 1876 that actual steps were taken 

 to realize this intention. A Sub- Committee was 

 formed and the undersigned was requested to act as 

 Honorary Editor of the contributions accepted by 

 this Committee. He consented to fill this post of 

 confidence, though not unmindful of his own short- 

 comings and the difficulties which he would have to 

 encounter, but hoping that a prosperous future 

 might dawn again on a Journal, which was once the 

 pride of this Presidency and to which distinguished 

 men of all services and professions were pleased to 

 contribute. 



The Government have kindly allowed the Journal 

 to be printed at the Government Press, the Society 

 paying for all expenses incurred. It is the agree- 

 able duty of the undersigned to acknowledge the 

 considerate assistance which he received from the 

 Acting Superintendent of the Government Press, 



