Elementary Handbook of the Burmese Language

American Baptist Mission Press, 1939. - 121 p.Ars longa, vita hrevis. This book is divided into two parts: the first deals with the colloquial form of the Burmese language, and the second with the literary form. Both are intended for hard- worked officials and busy men engaged in mercantile and other professions, to whom an elementary knowledge of Burmese may be essential ; and it is for this reason that an attempt is made to make the compilation as practical as possible. There is, however, no royal road to learning : a certain amount of drudgery must be faced and undergone if it is desired to acquire any kind ot knowledge; and an acquaintance with the Burmese language does not form an exception to the universal rule.
The compilation of this work is due to a suggestion made by Mr. St. John, Burmese Lecturer, Oxford University, who represented to the Local Government the need of a practical colloquial course in Burmese for the Indian Civil Service candidates undergoing their probationary training in England. The original scope has, however, been extended to meet the growing requirements of foreign residents in Burma.
In the preparation of this volume, my acknowledgments are due to Maung Tun Nyein, Extra Assistant Commissioner, who has often acted as Government Translator during my absence on leave or deputation, for the valuable assistance given by him.