264 SPITSBERGEN chap, xix 



tools, and stores of all sorts. Such matters cannot be 

 arranged in a hurry. They need to be thought out leisurely 

 at home before the main packing is put in hand. Nothing 

 should ever be received packed from the maker. All goods 

 should be received at home, separate, so that they can be 

 properly distributed from the outset. Of course a most 

 complete index of the contents of every package should be 

 kept, and this in the case, not only of the main baggage, 

 but also of the light camp-equipment. Infinite time may be 

 saved in camp by ability to lay hands at the moment on 

 the moment's need. No agent or mercantile firm can be 

 trusted with this work. The traveller must do it himself. 

 Finally, on the march, a traveller's pockets or satchel, or, 

 at the least, a satchel carried for him by a porter always 

 at hand, should contain an epitome of the contents of the 

 light camp. There should always be some food accessible, 

 always a simple tool or two, always a bit of string, a 

 rubber-band, a note-book, perhaps (if you are going with 

 sledges) a bit of wire, a nail, a screw, and the like. Zur- 

 briggen was the best companion I ever knew in this respect. 

 His pockets responded to every emergency. Mine, alas ! 

 seldom do. If an intending traveller keeps these principles 

 in mind he will find the task of equipment simplified, and 

 his work of preparation rendered more serious ; but every 

 minute spent in careful preparation at home, is an hour 

 saved to the explorer at a time when hours may be of 

 incalculable value. 



