A Sinhalese-English Dictionary

The author reveals that the first edition of this work was published in 1830. It proved to be most valuable to students of the Sinhalese language. The book has for many years been out of print and copies have been obtained only at very high prices. The issue of a new edition has therefore been long felt to be necessary; but the preparation of it involved a great amount of labour and rendered delay unavoidable. The work was begun by the Rev. George Bangh but the greater part was executed by the Rev. Robert Tebb. After these missionaries left Ceylon the whole has been very carefully revised and no pains have been spared to ensure accuracy. As it has been difficult to find time amid more pressing claims for this work, it is hoped that the delay which has occurred and also any errors and omissions which may be discovered will be regarded leniently. It has not been as a labour of love, but as the discharge of what appeared to be a public duty in the supply of a long felt want, that the execution has been persevered in. It is believed that to Europeans learning Sinhalese this book will be indispensable; Sinhalese students will find in it assistance which they will constantly and increasingly value ; and that all public officials and other persons taking an interest in Ceylon will deem their libraries to be incomplete without it.