This little volume forming the first part of Shanmuga virutti, a commentary by me on Tholkappiam, the earliest work on Tamil Grammar, written some twelve thousand years ago, by Thiranathumakkini Maharishi, the first disciple of Agastya Maharshi, justly revered as the Lord of Rishis, is by kind permission, most respectfully dedicated

TO

LIEUT: COLONEL H.M. HAKIM, I.M.S.

DISTRICT SURGEON, TANJORE,

in token of the gratitude, esteem, and admiration for the lease of life granted to his patient.

THE AUTHOR.