512 
SADDLERY AND SORE BACKS. 
With regard to the salt and water treatment, referred to by Colonel Brough, it 
is an old and well-known remedy, and is very useful in cases of a simple nature. 
I am under* the impression that I mentioned the reason for keeping open the 
orifice of a suppurating wound. The healing process must take place by granulation 
from the bottom, and if the orifice is allowed to close prematurely free drainage 
will be prevented, and the imprisoned matter will form another abscess. 
As regards dismounting men when at a halt, that is a question of discipline 
with which I have nothing whatever to do, as it does not enter into the scope of 
my lecture. There can be no doubt, however, that men should be dismounted 
whenever it is practicable, and the remedy for an omission of this sort is in the 
hands of the military authorities. 
I am very pleased to hear Major Horton say that the Saddlery Committee are 
“ working towards a heavier blanket,” and that he thinks they will have to try 
whether the numnah can be dispensed with. These are points that I, and others, 
have advocated for many years, and I hope the day may not be far distant when 
the 8 lb. blanket, without the numnah, will be substituted for that at present in 
use. Except to express a regret that Major Horton and I disagree with reference 
to the use of the crupper, I do not think I have anything to say in reply to the 
very interesting and instructive remarks with which that officer has favoured us. 
The Chairman —Gentlemen, I had made a few notes during Colonel Walters’ 
lecture of some points upon which I had intended to touch, but I think as the 
hour is now a little late, and as I do not think I can throw any further light upon 
the subjects beyond what Colonel Walters has told us I think I had better tear 
them up. Colonel Walters told us that he was not able to go into details, but 
what he told us has been most interesting and admirable in every way. I am 
wondering whether he could not give us another lecture, but I suppose his time 
will not admit of it. However, I am sure you will all agree with me in thanking 
him very heartily for coming here on Monday evening and again this evening, and 
for the admirable way in which he has lectured to us. (Applause). 
