The first word of this prayer _Aba_, is obscure, but apparently has the force of "salute," like the Latin _Ave. Bucor_ expresses diversity, distinction, and singularity. The article is _Si_ (Jesus), as _Ton_ in Greek. The richness of the language lies in its many synonyms and phrases; consequently this prayer, which, as it stands, is very elegant, could be formed with equal elegance in various other ways, without losing its original sense and meaning. The polish and courtesy consist in not saying, as in Latin, _Ave Maria_ (which would seem in this language abrupt and barbaric), without adding that polite word, _Guinoo_. There is none or very little of this courtesy in the other two languages of the Bissayas, which are more rude and unpolished. I thought it good to present the same prayer in these languages, not only as a curiosity, but to give an idea of their similarity and differences--giving notice, however, that it is not my intention to offer an interpretation (which is unnecessary, since we all know the "Ave Maria"), but, as I said, to show the idioms of these languages. These idioms, moreover, ought not to displease or appear ignoble, for every tongue has its own beauty and elegance for those who are born in it, which the eyes of foreigners cannot discern. This point has been discussed by Jesus Sidrac in the prologue to his _Ecclesiasticus_, a holy and Catholic work; and it was proved at length, and with great erudition, by the most glorious doctor St. Jerome, in the hundred and first Epistle to Pamaquio. _The "Ave Maria" in the Harayan tongue_ Maliag cao Maria nabota cao can gracia Rejoice thou Mary, full thou of grace. An atun guinoon Dios dian canimo. He our Lord God is with thee, Capin icao sa manga babai nga tanan, fortunate thou among women all; ig capin naman ang imon bata nga si Jesus _and fortunate also he thy son Jesus_. Santa Maria inang can Dios [Holy Mary], mother of God, igampo mo cami nga macasasala let us be favored by thee, us the sinners, caraon, ig cum mamatai cami. now and when shall die we. Amen, Jesus. _The "Ave Maria" in the Bissayan tongue_ Maghimaya ca Maria napono ca sa gracia Rejoice, thou Mary, full thou of grace; An guinoon Dios anaa canimo. the Lord God is with thee. Guirayeg ca uyamot sa babaihun tanan Exalted thou much among women all, ug guirayeg man an imon anac Jesus. and exalted also he thy son Jesus. Santa Maria inahan sa Dios, Holy Mary, mother of God, iguiampo mo cami macasasala onia let us be interceded for by thee, us sinners, now ug sa amun camatai. Amen, Jesus. and in our death.