They were made by that excellent
craftsman, A. A. Cutter, of Eau Claire, Wis., and he deserves and
is entirely welcome to this puff. Needless to remark, I have
received no especial favours from Mr. Cutter.
Six pairs of woollen socks, knit by hand, if possible-will be
enough. For evening, when you come in, I know nothing better than
a pair of very high moosehide moccasins. They should, however, be
provided with thin soles against the stray thorn, and should
reach well above the ankle by way of defence against the fever
mosquito. That festive insect carries on a surreptitious
guerrilla warfare low down. The English "mosquito boot" is simply
an affair like a riding boot, made of suede leather, with thin
soles. It is most comfortable. My objection is that it is
unsubstantial and goes to pieces in a very brief time even under
ordinary evening wear about camp.
You will also want a coat. In American camping I have always
maintained the coat is a useless garment. There one does his own
work to a large extent. When at work or travel the coat is in the
way. When in camp the sweater or buckskin shirt is handier, and
more easily carried. In Africa, however, where the other fellow
does most of the work, a coat is often very handy. Do not make
the mistake of getting an unlined light-weight garment. When you
want it at all, you want it warm and substantial. Stick on all
the pockets possible, and have them button securely.
For wet weather there is nothing to equal a long and voluminous
cape. Straps crossing the chest and around the waist permit one
to throw it off the shoulders to shoot. It covers the hands, the
rifle-most of the little horses or mules one gets out there.
One can sleep in or on it, and it is a most effective garment
against heavy winds. One suit of pajamas is enough, considering
your tent boy's commendable mania for laundry work. Add
handkerchiefs and you are fixed.
You will wear most of the above, and put what remains in your
"officer's box." This is a thin steel, air-tight affair with a
wooden bottom, and is the ticket for African work.
Sporting. Pick out your guns to suit yourself. You want a light
one and a heavy one.
When I came to send out my ammunition, I was forced again to take
the other fellow's experience. I was told by everybody that I
should bring plenty, that it was better to have too much than too
little, etc.
