HINTS TO TRAVELLERS. 73 



HINTS TO TRAVELLERS TX THE 

 BORNEAN JUNGLE. 



The work of exploration often proves a failure, owing, in 

 a large measure, to the nature of the obstacles to be met with 

 in the jungle ; therefore, I have thought it advisable to 

 mention some of the difficulties by which the traveller is 

 always confronted, having had a fair experience of jungle life, 

 and having, to a great extent, proved by constant practice the 

 best methods by which such difficulties may be overcome. It 

 is often the case that a little foreknowledge saves much 

 inconvenience and discomfort, and so I have noted down a few 

 matters that inevitably demand the attention of an explorer, 

 in the hope that, by so doing, I may, to a slight extent, assist 

 those engaged in this description of work, in making their 

 journey more successful than it might otherwise be. 



Do not encumber yourself with such baggage (necessary 

 in some countries) as canvas tents, hammocks, mackintoshes 

 or heavy boots. A hut — known to the Kayans by the name 

 of Siilap^ and to the Dyaks by the word Lanko — is easily 

 made in the jungle. It is always advisable to have it raised 

 about 2 feet off the ground, and the roof is made either of 

 palm leaves or the bark of the "garungang" or ''garu" tree, 

 stripped from the trunk in large squares. So short a time is 

 necessary for the erection of these structures, that, supposing 

 the halt to be made at 4.30 p.m., everything can be in 

 readiness for the night before darkness sets in. Caves, as 

 resting places, are to be avoided, as they are cold and damp, 

 and soon produce fever. In selecting a spot whereon to camp 

 for the night, look immediately above and see that no dead 

 wood is overhanging the hut. 



