Finland

(2,431), a grand-duchy forming the NW. corner of Ru ia; was ceded by the Swedes in 1809, but still retains an independent administration. The coast-line is deeply indented, and fringed with small islands; the interior, chiefly elevated plateau, consists largely of forest land, and is well furnished with lakes, many of which are united by canals, one 36 m. connecting Lake Saima with the Gulf of Finland. Various cereals (barley, oats, .) are grown, and there is a varied and valuable fauna; fishing is an extensive industry, and no le than 80 kinds of fish are found in the rivers, lakes, and coast waters. The country is divided into eight counties, and is governed by a Senate and Diet, the reigning Ru ian emperor holding rank as grand-duke; education is highly advanced; Swedish and Finnish are the two languages of the country, Ru ian being practically unknown. There is an excellent Saga literature, and the beginnings of a modern literature. The Finns came under the dominion of the Swedes in the 12th and 13th centuries, and were by them Christian i sed.