Learning and Arts of the Ceylonese. 209 
fields, many of them let their grounds to their neighbours, who 
are not altogether so lazy, for a certain proportion of grain, 
generally about one-third of its produce. There are a num- 
ber of deductions which prevent them from receiving a larger 
proportion: a considerable quantity is carried off by the 
priests for the service of their temples, or is offered up for 
protection and thanksgiving, both on account of the blessings 
they have received, and in the hope of farther assistance. 
