242 THE IDYL OF THE SPLIT-BAMBOO 



desert the stream for a considerable hike over dry 

 land, the while you hang the waders around your 

 neck. For general hiking, the regulation Munson- 

 last army shoes are the thing; and the dope for them 

 is one, two, three parts respectively of resin, bees- 

 wax, and mutton-tallow, melted together. Never 

 dry out wet leather shoes by exposing them to too 

 direct and strong fire-heat; fill them with hot sand 

 or pebbles. Moccasins or felt slippers are a great 

 comfort in camp. 



Many veteran anglers have solved this wading 

 problem, in a manner satisfactory to themselves at 

 least. The early Spring fishing except perhaps 

 for very short snatches, and not too far removed 

 from ready access to a good warm fire indoors 

 has long ceased to appeal to them very strongly; and 

 ordinarily from the middle of May on they can keep 

 very comfy without waders. They get right in, but 

 keep moving and don't stop to rest at any time when 

 there is the slightest suggestion of a chill. If camp- 

 ing, be sure to dry out thoroughly or change to warm, 

 dry clothing before going to bed. The best stimu- 

 lant after exposure is hot tea or hot black coffee, and 

 warmth. Alcohol generally is better applied out- 

 side. 



This reminds us that the hot-water bottle of 

 rubber or the canteen so used comes in mighty 

 handy when accident or sickness occurs in camp. 

 You always can prepare the water, and the bottle 



