George Rusby Kaye

“ According to the Hindus the modern place-value system of arithmetical notation is of divine origin. This led the early orientalists to believe that, at any rate, the system had been in use in India from time immemorial; but an examination of the facts shows that the early notations in use were not place-value ones and that the modern place-value system was not introduced until comparatively modern times. ”

“ On the other hand it is held that there is no sound evidence of the employment in India of a place-value system earlier than about the ninth century. The suggestion of 'divine origin' indicates nothing but historical ignorance ”

“ In spite, however, of the progress made in historical research there are still many errors current, of which, besides those already touched upon, the following may be cited as examples: (a) The proof by "casting out nines" is not of Indian origin and occurs in no Indian work before the 12th century ”