So this is a shloka from Brihat Parashari Hora Shastra, chapter 27, shloka 19, dealing with Drikbal calculation.   
If we try to translate it, it leads to ambiguity, especially due to the word “evam”. It can mean “in this way” or “thus”. 

So in translation A, it means: The base strength is diminished by one-fourth of a malefic's aspect, and similarly added to by one-fourth of a benefic's aspect. The total strength, when added to by the aspects of Mercury and Jupiter in this way, becomes the net strength of the planet.

In translation B: The base strength is diminished by one-fourth of a malefic's aspect, and similarly added to by one-fourth of a benefic's aspect. The total strength, when united with the aspect of Mercury and Jupiter, thus becomes the net strength of the planet

The issue is which one should be taken? Sri BV Raman follows the 1st interpretation, in his Grahbala and Bhavbala book, and most modern astrological softwares, including Jhora follows this interpretation. He divides the aspect as 1/4, irrespective of the planetary nature. But translations of BPHS follow the 2nd interpretation. 

Which one do ya’ll think is correct? Logically I feel interpretation A as correct. Interpretation B skews the whole drikbala calculation,just by 1 planet’s aspect. Also, logically speaking, if Jupiter’s aspect is blessing, Saturn’s aspect should also be considered without 1/4th rule, since Saturn’s aspect is fundamentally restrictive. Otherwise there is no balance to the skewing. 

What do ya’ll think? Which one do ya’ll use, and why?

Doubt regarding a shloka.