THE MEDICINE CHEST 315 



The remedy for snake bite is first a ligature above 

 the bite, then incision and rubbing of the wound 

 with permanganate powder, with venine injections, 

 finally coffee or brandy as heart stimulants. 



A native will recover from the most terrible 

 wounds unless they have been rendered septic 

 (poisoned) by the claws of a lion or leopard, 

 when their thorough washing out -with antiseptics 

 like perchloride of mercury (1 in 2000 or one 

 tablet in 2 pints of water) or permanganate solu- 

 tionmay cure the condition. A few compressed 

 bandages and dressings are absolutely necessary 

 in the equipment. To treat broken bones, dis- 

 locations, or save an apparently drowned man, 

 means knowledge which can and should be 

 acquired by a man who deliberately isolates 

 himself. Morphia in tabloids and a hypodermic 

 syringe every man should carry and know how to 

 use. After having been twice mauled (fortunately 

 lightly), I know the blessing of this enemy of pain. 

 There is one drug I always carry also quick in 

 its w r ork, and kindly withal with its deadly power. 

 I have often discussed with my parson friends the 

 justification of its use; most of the humane ones 

 agree that when suffering has become unbearable, 

 and there is absolutely no hope, one may dare 

 to take it and yet be forgiven. It is said of the 

 big-game hunter that if he persists in hunting 

 dangerous game and takes full risks, there can be 

 but one end ; but why should it entail needless 

 suffering ? 



