The reader will observe that a certain latitude has been permitted in the spelling of Indian names and Tibetan words occurring in this work. In the text Dr. Hunter’s system has been generally followed, but in the quotations, both from print and manuscripts, the ancient forms of spelling have in most cases been retained. As to the Tibetan words Csoma’s authority was decisive; moreover, instead of adhering invariably to the strict rules of Tibetan orthography, with its frequent use of mute letters, the abbreviated forms have been preferred. The strict rendering of accents and diacritical marks seemed hardly requisite in a work like this. The author desires to express his acknowledgments to Mr. Frederic Pincott, M.R.A.S., for important assistance rendered by him in reviewing and passing through the press the Sanskrit and Hindi part of the vocabulary at the end of the volume. London, 55 Nevern Square, South Kensington, February 1885. CONTENTS. CHAPTER I. PAGES Introduction—Csoma’s birthplace, parentage, and early childhood—Studies at Nagy Enyed in Transylvania, and at the University of Göttingen in Hanover—Plans and preparations for the journey—Departure for the East 1–14 CHAPTER II. Biographical sources—English and French authorities—Baron von Hügel’s data examined—First news of Csoma in India—His appearance at the frontier—Detained at Sabathú—Csoma’s first letter to Captain Kennedy—Moorcroft’s introduction 15–38 CHAPTER III. Government orders respecting Csoma’s stipend—His report regarding his past studies in Hungary, Germany, and at the Buddhist Monastery of Yangla in Zanskar—Account of his journey across Central Asia—Plans for the future 39–66 CHAPTER IV. Second journey into Tibet—Sojourn at Pukdal in Zanskar— Csoma’s position as to the Asiatic Society of Bengal— Return to Sabathú 67–72 CHAPTER V. Embarrassing situation—Csoma petitions Government to be allowed to visit Calcutta, or to go to Tibet for three years more to complete his studies 73–78 CHAPTER VI. Government orders on Csoma’s last application—Third journey into Tibet to Upper Besarh—Dr. Gerard’s visit to Kanum, and his letter to Mr. W. Fraser on the subject 79–98 CHAPTER VII. Csoma completes his Tibetan studies at Kanum—Correspondence with Dr. Horace Hayman Wilson, Captain Kennedy, and Mr. Brian H. Hodgson 99–111 CHAPTER VIII. Csoma’s arrival in Calcutta—Resolution of Government of India as to the publication of his works—Was elected Honorary Member of the Asiatic Society of Bengal 112–118 CHAPTER IX.