The Parsis or Modern Zerdusthians: A Sketch

Centuries ago, the knight who girt on his panoply of steel had to assign a reason for so doing; such, it appears, must also be the case for assuming the steel-pen of modern authorship.

I had been asked to furnish some information in a collated form regarding the Pársís, as all that could be obtained was mixed up with theological discussion in Dr Wilson's valuable works. In endeavoring to meet the wishes of the party, I found my manuscripts swell so alarmingly that I determined upon having recourse to the Press. This purpose is now accomplished.

I have had a delicate and trying duty before me, with the mass of materials and the variety of sources of information at my control. Not one line of this publication has been penned, however, with any un- kind feeling; and I would indeed be pained to know that I had unconsciously given offence.

As pertinent to the subject I might have dedicated this volume to one of the Pársi community, to the venerable Sir Jem- shedjí Jíjíbhái,-or to the worthy Shet Káuvasji Jehangir, (and "none worthier than he,")-or to the highly respected Shet Frámjí Nasarvánjí,-but that I had deter- mined not to lose the opportunity to notice a name that to me must ever be associated with obligations.

I have endeavoured to be both easy and agreeable in the style; and have avoided references in detail to works, few of which may be found here, and many of which are not even known by name to the generality of readers.

**Contents and Sample Pages**