365 
Former and Present State of Ceylon 
These measures, however, were either entirely overlooked or 
culpably neglected by the Dutch governors. But I am happy 
to add, that there is every appearance of their being speedily 
carried into execution,' with the best effects, by our country- 
men. Within the last two or three years a great increase of 
tillage, and much improvement in the cultivation of rice and 
paddy have taken place in the south and south-west parts of 
the island, in consequence of the encouragements held out by 
government. The advantages to be derived from a perseve- 
rance in this policy are incalculable. The money which is 
every year sent out of the island to purchase grain being re- 
tained in it, in consequence of a sufficient quantity of that 
commodity being produced within itself for its own consumption, 
would tend to the rapid increase of its wealth, and conse- 
quently of its improvement. The excitement of a spirit of 
industry among the natives might also be productive of ad- 
vantages which at present it would be difficult to estimate. 
If they could first be engaged to cultivate their lands, and 
to taste the comforts arising from industry and property, their 
own inclinations would speedily lead them to manufactures and 
commerce. 
Another immediate consequence of the progress of cultivation 
would be the amelioration of the climate, by clearing the coun- 
try of those thick woods and marshes that serve to form and 
perpetuate those noxious vapours which have often proved fatal 
to Europeans, and deterred the natives of the continent from 
settling in the island. 
By the increase of cultivation, other obstacles to settlers 
would be removed. The high price of provisions on the 
island, in comparison of what it is on the continent from 
