THE ISLAND OF CEYLON. 
3(53 
trees and jack-fruit being almost of themselves sufficient for 
all their purposes. The Dutch, however, by a well-directed 
policy and by holding out proper encouragement, might have 
in a great measure overcome the indolence naturally arising 
from these causes, and might have taught them to know and 
appreciate the comforts and enjoyments arising from industry 
and aid uence. 
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 pui 
countrymen. 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 encourage- 
ments held out by government. The advantages to be de- 
rived from a perseverance in this policy are incalculable. 
The money which is every year sent out of the island to 
purchase grain being retained in it, in consequence of a sul- 
ticient quantity of that commodity being produced within 
itself for its own consumption, would tend to the rapid in- 
crease of its wealth, and consequently of its improvement. 
The excitement of a spirit of industry among the natives 
might also be productive of advantages 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 
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