Srilanka, Oct. 11 -- She demonstrated a remarkable yearning for things close to her heart-a trait abundantly evident throughout her political life. Even as a six-year-old kindergarten student, she insisted that a particular bull be harnessed to the buggy that carried her daily to school from her aunt Mrs Dambavinne's house, under the care of a faithful maid. She would confound the carter whenever he attempted to use a different bull.

This passion for specific, meaningful things persisted into her years as Prime Minister. Bradman Weerakoon, her official secretary, recalls: "She insisted that fresh fruits-Mangosteens from Horagolla, Rambutan and mangoes from Attanagalle-be airlifted to London to be served to distinguished VVIPs at a dinner...