THE HISTORY OF KATHIAWAD EDICT SIX King Priyadarsin, beloved of the Gods, says: In past times there has never yet existed care for civil interests nor arrangements for hearing complaints. There- fore have I instituted the same. All the time I have been reigning there have been placed everywhere persons appointed to hear complaints in the apartments of women, in sanctuaries, in parks and in similar places, in order that they shotdd know the wants of my people and report them to me. In all respects I further the interests of my people. In whatever I declare by word of mouth „ . * or whatever I entrust to my ministers or preceptors « . . I always reconsider. . . . This have I everywhere and at all times commanded. For to me there is no satisfac- tion in increasing litigation. Litigation is necessary only for the securing of some civil interest. I consider it my duty to do good to all, but would attend to quarrels only so far as they tend to settle any disputed interest. I have no other business but the little effort I am constantly doing for the good of all. Thus do I wish to discharge somehow my debt to all beings . . . that they may attain heaven. This Edict has been caused to be written for this purpose. Would that I should look after it for long. Let my sons, grandsons, and great-grandsons after me also labour for universal good, which is difficult without the utmost exertion. EDICT SEVEN King Priyadarsin, beloved of the Gods, desires that everywhere the ascetics of all persuasions should dwell in peace. He desires in all of them self-control and purity of soul. But people have different opinions and different likings. They may do all or a part. Nevertheless for one who is not able to make large religious gifts, self- control, purity of mind, gratitude and firm devotion which lasts for ever, are good. 16