WAYS AND MEANS 



ing to be stoked with a few mouthfuls, of 

 biscuit. There is no harm in drinking on 

 the march, as much and often as one 

 pleases, and a rubber cup is highly con- 

 venient; but it is dangerous for man or 

 horse to touch cold water after long exer- 

 tion, before cooling off. A good horse- 

 master allows the animal to drink freely, a 

 mile or so before the end of his journey. 



However chilly the water is, a plunge is 

 safe to one overheated; unsafe when the 

 body dreads it. Hurry up and get in, 

 but do not swim far if tired, for cramp 

 then lies awaiting. It may now be in the 

 nature of an empty counsel to declare that 

 the most insignificant amount of alcohol 

 is a definite hindrance, and no help, in any 

 kind of work ;-^vainly and sadly remin- 

 iscent, too, the praises of that unstinted 

 noggin at the long day's end — reward of 

 labour — healer of fatigues — grave-digger 

 to sorrow — begetter of rosy dreams! 



Pork and beans I know, catalogue I know, 

 but what timber else is stout enough to prop 

 the ribs from sunrise to sunset? Other 

 foods evanesce; by early afternoon they 

 are but a haunting memory. Herein is a 

 mystery: give to the Scot his oatmeal, the 

 Irishman his potatoes, the Arab a handful 

 231 



