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154 near Siddâpura. The Prince, no doubt, was a son of Asoka, and Viceroy of the Deccan.

The number 256 is significant as being the square of 16, a number much favoured by Hindu usage. It may also be analysed as 64 x 4 or as 32 x 8, all favourite numbers. The notion that the numerals should be interpreted as a date is certainly erroneous. The scholars who believed in the date theory were led into many baseless speculations, now wholly obsolete, which need no further notice.

SECTION 2 The Bhâbrû or Second Bairât Rock Edict AS0KA's FAVOURITE PASSAGES OF SCRIPTURE

His Grace the King of Magadha addresses the Church with greetings and bids its members prosperity and good health.

You know, Reverend Sirs, how far extend my respect for and faith in the Buddha, the Sacred Law, and the Church.

Whatsoever, Reverend Sirs, has been said by the Venerable Buddha, all of that has been well said.

However, Reverend Sirs, if on my own account I may point out (a particular text), I venture to adduce this one:—

"Thus the Good Law will long endure."

Reverend Sirs, these passages of the Law, to wit:—

[1] The Exaltation of Discipline (Vinaya-saomukkase);

[2] The Course of Conduct of the Great Saints (Aliya-vasâṁi);

[3] Fears of what may happen (Anâigata—bhayâni);

[4] The Song of the Hermit (Muni-gâthâ);

[5] The Dialogue on the Hermit's Life (Moneya-sûte);

[6] The Questioning of Upatishya (Upatisa-pasine);

[7] The Address to Râhula, beginning with the Subject