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 PS. Readers of the Sacred Books of the East may notice that several of the introductory summaries to the chapters in this work are condensed from the corresponding summaries in the XXXIst volume of the S.B.E., of which I am the author. l take this opportunity to express my indebtedness to the Delegates of the Clarendon Press, and also to the Right Honourable Max Muller, the Editor of the Series, for their courtesy in according me this privilege. This book in no sense interferes with that literary rendering which is addressed to a different public. The intelligent reader will not need to be reminded that in dealing with subjects of this kind an author makes an especial effort to re-cast former presentations in the light of fresh discoveries. It should never be forgotten that no changes in wording can alter that which we most value in these hymns, which is their moral and religious-philosophical tone; and this is wholly unique in view of their age and circumstances.

L. H. M.