222 THE CAMEL 



enormous difference was observable in the deserts and up 

 the banks of the Nile, and in both campaigns was one of 

 the principal predisposing causes of disease. From the 

 beginning of November to the end of February was the 

 worst period. In a great many instances the colds 

 were so severe that the animals were greatly weakened 

 and debilitated, and in some cases I believe that pneu- 

 monia was the result. Frequent variations of climate, 

 extremes of temperature, continued exposure, unavoid- 

 able hardships, and want of proper clothing at night 

 did more mischief even than the saddle galls. Out of 

 over 300 camels I had with me marching from Wady 

 Haifa to Korti, a great number were suffering from 

 colds in some shape or other, eyes watering and noses 

 running being common symptoms. Every precaution 

 that was possible under the circumstances was taken ; 

 but as we were unprovided with blankets, and the 

 nights, as previously remarked, became colder than 

 the day by 40 to 50, there was nothing to do but 

 grin and bear it. Talk of the policeman's lot being 

 an unhappy one, with many apologies to Mr. Gilbert, 

 but his experience of the transport officer and his woes 

 must be altogether nil. Coughs were also pretty 

 common, and in some cases were concomitant to the 

 colds. A good remedy is about an ounce of turpentine 

 mixed with three or four beaten-up eggs, which should 

 be repeated daily until the cough is better. The 

 animal ought to be well blanketed and put under 

 shelter if possible. A diet of soft crushed nourishing 

 food is highly necessary, especially if the cough is 

 severe. There is no doubt that in a complaint like 

 catarrh ' prevention is better than cure/ and the best, 



