270 
THE ISLAND OF CEYLON. 
which imprudent cruelty has inspired them against Europe- 
ans. But the advantages which may be derived from their 
friendship and co-operation, certainly render a new system at 
least worth the experiment. A mild and liberal policy is 
more congenial to the feelings of my countrymen; and I am 
happy to observe that the measures already adopted by our 
government in Ceylon, are of such a nature as to have greatly 
conciliated the minds of the natives. The reigning prince has 
had reason more than once to be gratified with our civili- 
ties. About five years ago he married a Malabar princess 
of his own country and sect, and a near relation of the Ra- 
ya\\ of Bamnad. She passed into the island by the way of 
Manaar; and the king acknowledged his obligations to the 
officer stationed there for the civilities shewn her in her pro- 
gress to Candy. Attentions of this nature, with some well- 
timed presents and concessions, must have more effect both 
on the prince and people, than all the armies which the 
former possessors of the island wasted in fruitless wars against 
them. 
