Page:A grammar of the Teloogoo language.djvu/102

 Many Teloogoo words which have 11 r in the first syllable, frequently lose it in the vulgar dialect ; thus, ^; Ao or >$) an ear-ring, is commonly both written and pronounced cfr 6 ^) or &*&.

The reader need not be surprized if, in the course of his studies, he should meet with some examples in opposition to the foregoing rules, supported by good authority. On no part of Grammar are the opinions of Teloogoo authors so much at variance, as with respect to the changes attempted to be explained in this chapter : the ingenuity and subtilty with which each combats the arguments of his opponent, have gained for every celebrated writer on Grammar some adherents ; and as authors rigidly observe the precepts of the particular Grammarian whom they select for their guide, a comparison of almost any two books will exhibit some discrepancies not to be reconciled. Every endeavour has been used to select those opinions which are most generally received at present, but the subject itself is so intricate, and the opinions of native Grammarians respecting it so contradictory, that a foreigner who attempts to illustrate it must necessarily feel diffident of success.