We have decided to omit so much of Bishop Caldwell's Introduction as relates to the History of Dravidian Literature. In doing so we have been guided by two considerations. An account of Dravidian Literature is not strictly germane to the main purpose of the book, as Bishop Caldwell himself candidly admitted. In the second place, some of the author's conclusions as to the dates of the older books have been rendered obsolete by the researches of Indian scholars and the investigations of the Government Archaeological Departments.

The study of the history, ancient literature, and archaeology of the country will never reach anything like completeness of development or realize results of national importance, till it is systematically undertaken by the educated Natives. Learned Natives of Calcutta and Bombay, trained in European modes of thought, and vying with Europeans in zeal for historical accuracy, have already made a promising beginning in this department of research. I trust that the Native scholars of the South will resolve that they will not be left behind in the race.