SCOUTING FOR GIRLS 
315 
running steps, returning to the walking steps, and so 
forth. The number of steps may vary, according to 
the place, nature of the road and object of the walk 
Fifty steps walking, fifty steps running and alternating 
steadily for twelve minutes will take one a mile, and 
this is one of the measures of distance that is useful to 
know. For ordinary use on hikes the use of twenty 
steps running and walking is preferable. 
Feet 
With a little knowledge as to the care of her feet the 
city girl can make a good showing at her first camp. 
Prepare feet by brushing vigorously with a dry flesh 
brush. Strengthen muscles by standing on toes in bare 
feet, raising body gradually fifty or seventy-five times. 
Frequent changes of stockings, bathing of tired feet in 
hot water at night and cold water in the morning, will 
overcome most of the hiker’s troubles. The cold water 
hardens the skin. Boric acid powder is good for nat- 
urally damp feet. Blisters should be cleansed with 
iodine, then carefully pricked with a sterile needle to let 
out the water (hold the needle in the flame of a match), 
then washed with iodine and covered with a few layers 
of sterile gauze and fastened with adhesive plaster. 
It is desirable to change the stockings every day. Wash 
them at night and hang them out to dry and keep them 
well darned. Two pairs at least are necessary. Never 
risk your health by putting on stockings even slightly 
damp with dew. A hole will cause a blister. Woolen 
stockings are preferable. For very long hikes it helps 
to wear two or three pairs, and to lather the outside of 
the stocking with a cake of soap slightly moistened. 
Shoes 
Shoes should be the shape of the feet and have low, 
wide heels. It rests the feet to take the shoes off once 
