MANUAL OF PACK TKANSPOBTATTON. 43 



Steadfasts. — There is but one cause for steadfasts, that is in neglect- 

 ing to fix for "bunches," a neglect of twenty-four hours after the bunch 

 has been caused and the bunch will become difficult to reduce; a neg- 

 lect of thirty-six hours and the bunch will result in the flesh becoming 

 hard and callous, and assume the condition and appearance of dried 

 beef; this condition is termed a "steadfast." To remove the stead- 

 fast the knife has to be used and all appearance of the steadfast must 

 be cut out; the animal experiences no pain until the sound flesh is 

 touched. Apply a slice of fat bacon after the steadfast has been re- 

 moved and the sore will heal in a few days ; this will not interfere with 

 the working of the pack animal. 



If packmasters will exercise care as above outlined when setting 

 up and fitting the aparejo, they can follow a troop of cavalry at any 

 gait desired, or climb any mountain where an animal can find footing, 

 without the least danger of losing load or aparejo. 



In the case of aparejos ribbed with willow or other sticks, the main 

 secret is "ribbing" properly, that is, the gradual lessening in the diam- 

 eter of each stick from front to rear. 



To keep animals sound requires the time and experience of experts 

 at the business. 



