"In the preparation of the present grammar author availed several works on Sinhalese grammar, by both ancient and modern authors. It has been written in a form best adapted to suit those who are familiar with European grammar owing to the multiplicity of examples and explanations, and the introductions of same matter not perhaps strictly appertaining to the province of a grammar, but likely to be of use, its scope has exceeded the bounds originally contemplated.

"The Sinhalese language is one well worth acquisition not only by those whose calling or profession renders it necessary, but by persons of linguistic tastes, for the sake of a knowledge of its wonderful and beautiful structure, allied closely as it is to the great Indian classic tongue, and of which structure acquaintance with European languages, with Greek and Latin and semitic tongues, affords no idea."