The Mohammedan law was for several centuries the general law of the territories now forming the British Empire in India. It still enters to some extent into the dealings of Mohammedans with each other, and, being founded on texts of the Koran and sayings of the Prophet, is binding on their consciences in all cases to which it is applicable. It has a direct bearing on their conduct to foreigners; and it is therefore of great importance that it should not be in conflict, but in harmony, if possible, with the law of the place on a matter that so nearly affects themselves and their fellow-subjects, as the duty which they owe to the Government.