Benares has not been unwritten. In 1868 the Rev. M. A. Sherring published his book, entitled " The Sacred City of the Hindus : an account of Benares in ancient and modern times." This is still the best book on the subject, though unfortunately it has been out of print for many years, and it is very difficult to procure even second-hand copy. Quite recently, in 1905, Mr. F. B. Havell published " Benares the Sacred City. Sketchesof Hindu life and religion." This is an exceedingly well written and enjoyable book ; a vivid impression of Benares as seen by an artist and a thinker. The latest Government Gazetteer for Benares contains a great mass of information, but is somewhat packed away on shelves, not in show-cases. The Rev. Arthur Parker, who lived some years in Benares, wrote, in 1895, (republished in 1901) "A Hand-book of Benares," a most useful book, but now out of print, and not likely to be republished. Last year the Rev. C. Phillips Cape brought out a very readable and interesting series of sketches, entitled " Benares, the stronghold of Hinduism." The sketches include several subjects which do not peculiarly and exclusively relate to Benares, and some others which do, are not treated very fully. Conscious of its many deficiencies, this little book is issued in the hope that it may prove of some service to visitors to Benares, and possibly to others who reside here for a season.
Whatever its fate, it is offered by one who is not only intensely interested in Kashi, but who loves her dearly, and desires, and strives for, her good.