Chapter 2

A Classic Island.--Topographical Position.--Maldive Islands.--Lands rising out of the Sea.--Size of Ceylon.--Latitude and Longitude.--A Link of a Powerful Chain.--Important British Station.--"Mountain of the Holy Foot."--Remarkable Mountain View.--Queer Speculations.--Insect Life in the Island.--Acknowledged Gem of the Orient.--Wild Elephants.--In Olden Times.--Far-Reaching Historic Connections.--Arboreal and Floral Beauties.--Perennial Vegetation.--The Feathered Tribe 19