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consideration which has prompted me to translate the work in spite of its defects.
The work of translation has been by no means a plain sailing. Yet with all its difficulties the work has been one of love and a joy to me. I do not therefore feel entitled to claim any indulgence from the reader or quarter from the critic on that score. The work, however, has been rushed through the press for the importunity of my publisher and I shall not be the least surprised if faults are found to have been permitted to remain.
In conclusion, I have to convey my best thanks to my esteemed friend Mr. Prithwis Chandra Ray, the Editor of the Indian World for his constant encouragement and support, in placing every facility at my disposal, in looking over the proofs, and in making several very important suggestions. To the management of the Cherry Press too I am thankful for the expedition and promptness with which the work has been done.
