278 THROUGH CANADA 



aloofness. One can only hope that this will be so 

 generally amongst the big game, in order that they 

 may not share the fate of the magnificent, and at one 

 time ubiquitous, buffalo. 



• Whether one goes armed with rifle or field- 

 glasses it is important to secure the services of a 

 competent guide. This is not difficult, as trustworthy 

 men are to be found. In the busy season it is 

 necessary to book them in advance ; the best are 

 naturally in demand, and the second best is a 

 doubtful quantity. Guides supply nearly all the 

 essentials of an excursion : tents, blankets, canoes and 

 also the commissariat. Clothing should be light, of 

 woollen material. Guides naturally object to carry- 

 ing anything beyond essentials. Along the coast 

 the expense is comparatively small, as travelling is 

 done for the most part by water. Going inland 

 pack-horses are necessary, the cost of which varies. 

 In Chilcotin and Lillooet they can be hired for 

 about 2s. a day. Saddled horses 3i-. In Cassiar 

 and Kootenay the price runs from 8j. to gs. A 

 complete outfit, including provisions, costs from £2 

 to ^3 per diem. 



August is the best time of year to start on a big- 

 game excursion. Sheep and goats are in good 

 condition then. In October moose and caribou are 

 in their prime ; their antlers have become set and 

 past the velvet stage. Bears are not in condition 

 until spring, and shooting them in the autumn is 



