Classical Tibetan literature is remarkably rich in wonderful stories. The present selection is, however, based primarily on folk literature and oral tradition. Some of the items included in this book will, therefore, be found to differ considerably from the standard versions of printed texts. Moreover, I have not hesitated to incorporate, in certain instance, material from Sanskrit and pali.

I have derived much profit from the works a of many scholars, both living and dead. I am greatly indebted to all of them and, in particular, to Sarat Chandra Das, Mahamahopaddhyaya Hara prasad sastri and Madhusudan Kaviraj.

For reading the MS of the present book and offering suggestions for improvement I tender sincere thanks to the following: Allen M> Laing, E. Carlile, E. Foy, E.M. and Mary Weiser.