 |
Phenacetine and Salol, of each gr. 2-1/2, 100 at 50 cents per C. One tablet every four hours. For headache and intestinal antisepsis. Dangerous as a depressant to heart.
Dover's Powders, gr. 5, 100 at 50 cents per C. Two tablets at bedtime, in hot water or lemonade, in acute colds. One after each meal may be added.
Dobell's Solution Tablets, 200 at 25 cents per C. One as a gargle in one-half glass hot water every two to four hours in tonsilitis and pharyngitis.
Potassium Bromide, gr. 10, 100 at 25 cents per C. For headache. Best given in solution after meals. May irritate an empty stomach.
Aspirin, gr. 5, 100 at $1.25 per C. One or two every four hours for rheumatism, headache, or general pains and aches.
Compound cathartic pills, 100 at 21 cents per C. Two at night for constipation.
Epsom Salts, four ounces, 5 cents. Two to four teaspoonfuls in hot water before breakfast.
Compound tincture of opium (Squibb), 4 ounces, 50 cents. Teaspoonful after meals for summer diarrhea.
Baking soda. Teaspoonful after meals for "distress."
Morphine Sulphate, gr, 1/4;
Strychnine Sulphate, gr. 1-30; for hypodermics, used by physicians only.
In addition to the above everyone has a stock of "old-fashioned" home remedies. Some of these are described under "Simple Remedies."
BIBLIOGRAPHY
"Backwoods Surgery and Medicine"—Charles Stuart Moody, M. D. Outing Publishing Co., New York, 75 cents net. A commonsense book written from experience. It is invaluable to campers.
"Home Treatment and Care of the Sick "-A. Temple Lovering, M.D. Otis Clapp & Son, Boston, $1.50. Full of helpful suggestions.
American Red Cross Abridged Text Book on First Aid (General Edition). American Red Cross Society, Washington, D. C., 30 cents net. Reliable and comprehensive.
Annual Report of the United States Volunteer Life Saving Corps (Free). Office, World Building, New York City. Contains many hints and suggestions.
Boys' Drill Regulations. National First, Aid Association, 6 Beacon Street, Boston, Mass. 25 cents. A mass of information concerning setting-up drills, litter drills, swimming drill on land, rescue and resuscitation drills, etc.
CHAPTER XIV—SIMPLE REMEDIES
BITES BLEEDING BURNS EARS EYES FEET HEADACHE SUNSTROKE STOMACH ACHE TOOTHACHE
In a small camp a physician is unnecessary, though one should be within call. The camp leader should have a knowledge of the ordinary ailments of growing boys and simple remedies for relief. No camp of fifty or more boys should be without a physician or some upper class medical student of high moral character. Don't run risks. When in doubt, call in a physician. The treatment of local disorders described is largely from nature's medicine chest, and simple in application.
Bites and Stings
Put on salt and water, or make a paste of soda and water, or rub the wound with aromatic ammonia, camphor, or tar soap. Common salt is excellent.
Bleeding Nose
Do not blow the nose. Hold a wet handkerchief at the back of the neck and wash the face in hot water, or place a wad of paper under the upper lip, or crowd some fine gauze or cotton into the nostrils and make a plug.
To Check Bleeding
Raise the injured part as high as you can above the heart, press very firmly with sterile pad under thumb or fingers on or into the wound. Blood from a vein will be dark red or purplish and will flow in a steady stream. Press upon the vein below the wound. Put on a clean pad and bind it upon the wound firmly enough to stop bleeding. Blood from an artery will be bright red and will probably spurt in jets. Press very hard above the wound. Tie a strong bandage (handkerchief, belt, suspenders, rope, strip of clothing) around the wounded member, and between the wound and the heart. Under it and directly over the artery place a smooth pebble, piece of stick, or other hard lump. Then thrust a stout stick under the bandage and twist until the wound stops bleeding. A tourniquet should not remain over twenty-four hours.
Blisters
Wash blistered feet in hot water and then in alcohol or in cold water with a little baking powder or soda added. Wipe them dry and then rub them with a tallow candle or some fat.
Bruises
Apply compresses of hot or cold water to keep down swelling and discoloration. Also apply witch hazel.
Burns
Use vaseline, baking soda, bread, the white of an egg, flour and water, butter, grease, or fat; or mix flour and soda with fat, or soap with sugar and make into a paste, or put a teaspoonful of baking powder into a pint of warm water and pour it on a piece of gauze and put this on the burn or scald, covering it with cotton and a bandage. Never let a burn be exposed to the air, but cover it at once if the pain is intense.
Chills
Mix a good dash of pepper with a little ginger in sweetened hot water and drink it. Get into bed at once. Cover with blankets and put hot water bottle at feet.
Choking
Force yourself to swallow pieces of dry bread or drink some water. Let some one slap the back.
Colds
Pour boiling water over two heads of elder blossoms, brew for twenty minutes, and drink a small cup hot on going to bed. Or drink hot lemonade or hot ginger tea. In any case, keep warm and out of a draft.
Constipation
Use cathartic pills, or castor oil. Eat plenty of prunes or fruit. Drink plenty of water.
Cuts
Always clean thoroughly all open wounds to prevent infection, and accelerate healing. Carbolic, left on a wound for any time at all may result in carbolic poisoning or in gangrene. Use pure alcohol (not wood or denatured, as both are poisonous), or a teaspoonful of sulphur-naphthol to a basin of water, or 1:1000 corrosive sublimate solution (wad with flexible collodion). Do not use vaseline or any other substance on a freshly abrased surface. After a scab has formed, vaseline may be applied to keep this scab soft. Never close a wound with court plaster[1]. The only legitimate uses for sticking or adhesive plaster are to hold dressings in place where bandaging is difficult, or in case of a cut to keep edges closed without sewing the skin.
[Transcriber's Footnote 1: Cloth coated with adhesive substance to cover cuts or scratches on the skin.]
Earache
Take the heart of an onion, heat it in an oven, and put it in the ear when hot, but not so hot as to burn the ear. This not only relieves the earache, but helps to send the sufferer to sleep. Hold hot water bag to ear.
Inflamed Eye
Wring a towel in water hot as the hands will bear; lay on the eyes and change frequently. Bathe with saturated solution of boric acid crystals.
Great relief is felt by opening the eyes in tepid or very warm boracic solution. Even if it is strong enough to smart, no harm will result.
If inflammation is caused by a foreign substance, rub the other eye, in order to make both eyes water. If the speck can be seen, it can generally be taken out by twisting a small piece of gauze or cloth around a toothpick and drawing it over the speck, or by twisting up a piece of paper like a lamp lighter and, after wetting the tip of it, wiping it against the speck. If it is under the upper lid, pull the lid away from the eyeball, and push the under lid up underneath the upper one. In this way the eyelashes of the lower lid will generally clean the inside of the upper one. An eye-tweezers for removing a piece of grit from the eye is made by folding a piece of paper in two. With a sharp knife cut it to a point at an angle of 30 degrees and slightly moisten the point in clean water.
Feet
It is a good thing to dry-soap your feet and the inside of your socks before putting them on for a hike or tramp. This is an old army trick. If your feet perspire freely, powder them with boric acid powder, starch, and oxide of zinc in equal parts. Wash the feet every day, best on turning in at night.
To prevent the nail growing into the toe, take a bit of broken glass and scrape down the top of the nail until it is quite thin, and in time the corners begin to grow out, and no longer hurt the toe. Toenails should be cut square and not encouraged to grow in by side trimming. A good plan is to make a "V" shape notch on the middle of the top of each toenail, which will close up naturally, and, in so doing, draw the sides up and inward.
Headache
Headache comes from indigestion or from the sun. A boy will overeat and then play under the hot sun—result, headache. Have the boy lie down and sleep, if possible, using cloths dipped in cold water to drive the blood away from the head. A remedy recommended by the great John Wesley is to lay very thin slices of lemon rind on either temple.
Hiccough
Take a deep breath and hold it as long as possible, or make yourself sneeze.
Ivy Poisoning
Mix some baking powder with water, or rub on wood ashes. Wash with alcohol. Be careful not to spread by scratching.
Rusty Nail
Better call a physician. Puncture with nails and such things, especially if rusty, should be squeezed and washed with sulphur-naphthol or hot water poured into the hole. If too small, this may be slightly enlarged. Cauterize with carbolic acid, then with pure alcohol. Keep the wound open for a few days. Run no risk with a rusty nail wound. Attend to it immediately.
Sprains
Bathe a sprain in as hot water as you can bear, to which has been added a small quantity of vinegar and salt. Slight sprains (as of finger) may be painted with iodine.
Sunstroke
The first symptom is a headache followed by a heavy feeling in the pit of the stomach, dimmed eyesight, difficulty in breathing, and a fever. If insensibility follows, lay the person on his back in a cool, shady place, with his head slightly raised. Loosen his clothing, keep his head cold with wet cloths, and pour cold water on his face and chest, until the temperature of his body is lowered and the face becomes pale.
Sunburn
Get used to sun gradually. Use powdered boric acid or ointment. Cocoa butter is also a good preventive.
Sore Throat
Gargle the throat with warm water and some salt added, and then bind a woolen sock around it. Keep the sock on until the soreness is gone. Put teaspoonful of chlorate of potash in a cup of water and gargle. Diluted alkalol [sic] is also good for a gargle, or tincture of iron diluted. Fat bacon or pork may be tied around the neck with a dry sock. Swab the throat.
Stomachache
Caused by undigested food in the intestines. Put the boy on a diet, also give him plenty of warm water to drink, or a cup of hot ginger tea.
Toothache
Heat will always help to soothe the sufferer. A seeded raisin, toasted before the fire, makes a useful poultice for an aching tooth, pressed into the hollow. A bag of hot salt, pressed on the face, relieves pain.
CHAPTER XV—FIRST AID TO THE INJURED
First aid should teach every boy how to render temporary assistance by improvised means for the relief of the injured one, and the methods by which he can be removed to a place of safety. With this in view, the information given in this chapter incorporates what every camper should know. Before going to camp, boys should be taught the use of the Triangular Bandage. This bandage is used by the United States Government, and is well suited for an emergency bandage. It can be easily made from a handkerchief or a piece of linen. The American Red Cross First Aid Outfit contains a triangular bandage, with methods of application printed thereon. The gauze or roller bandage is more difficult to handle. This, however, is the bandage to control bleeding, etc. Any reliable book on First Aid gives information as to its manipulation.
Dislocation
A dislocation of the finger or toe can generally be reduced by pulling strongly and at the same time pressing where the dislocation is. If the hip, shoulder, or elbow is dislocated, do not meddle with the joint, but make the boy as comfortable as possible by surrounding the joint with flannel cloths wrung out in hot water; support with soft pads, and send for a doctor at once. If the spine is dislocated, lay the boy on his back. Never put him on his side or face, it may be fatal. If he is cold, apply hot blankets to his body, hot water bottle or hot salt bag to the seat of pain.
Broken Bones
Do not try to reduce the fracture if a physician can be secured, for unskilled handling will do more harm than good. The thing to do is to make the boy comfortable by placing him in a comfortable position with the injured part resting on a pad, keeping him perfectly quiet. If there is an open wound, cover it with cheesecloth or gauze which has been dipped in boiling water, to which baking soda has been added. Then wrap absorbent cotton around it. If the boy has a fever, put wet cloths on his head, swinging them in the air to cool for changing.
THE FOLLOWING PRACTICAL SUGGESTIONS ARE GIVEN IN "CAMP KITS AND CAMP LIFE," BY CHARLES STEDMAN HANKS.
Nose
If the nose is broken, plug with gauze to stop bleeding.
Jaw
If the jaw is broken, push the bone gently into place, and if there is an open wound, cover it with gauze or cotton, made antiseptically, and then put a bandage around the jaw.
Collar Bone
If the collar bone is broken, it will be known by the pain in the shoulder and the shoulder dropping. Holding the elbow up will relieve the weight from the collar bone. Lay the boy on his back. Put a cotton wad in his armpit and bandage the arm to the side of the body and put the arm in a sling.
Shoulder Blade
If the shoulder blade is broken, put the forearm across the chest with the fingers on the shoulder and then bandage the arm to the body.
Rib
If a rib is broken it will pain the patient when he takes a long breath. Put him on his back, resting a little on the uninjured side, so that he will breathe easily. If it is necessary to move him, bandage strips of adhesive plaster around the body, beginning at the lowest rib and working upward, having each strip lap over the one below it. If you have no adhesive plaster, use a wide strip of cotton cloth. After you have put his coat on, pin it as tightly as you can in the back.
Leg Above Knee
If the leg is broken above the knee, lay shoulders slightly back, with the head and shoulders slightly raised. Draw the leg out straight, and, after padding it with cotton or towels, cut a small sapling long enough to reach from the foot to the armpit, and fasten it at the ankle, knee, and waist. If it is necessary to move the boy, bind both legs firmly together.
Leg Below Knee
If the leg is broken below the knee, lay the boy on his back and put a pillow or a bag stuffed with grass lengthwise under it. Then put a board or a hewed sapling on the under side of the pillow to stiffen it, and bandage the pillow and the board or sapling firmly to the leg. If the boy has to be moved, bind both legs together.
Knee Pan
If the knee pan is broken, put the boy on his back and straighten out the leg on a padded splint which reaches from the heel to the hip, putting some cotton or a folded towel under the knee and the heel. Then bandage the splint on at the ankle, at the upper part of the leg, and above and below the knee pan.
Foot
If the foot is broken, make a splint of two pieces of wood held together at right angles, and, after padding the foot with cotton, bind the splint to the side of the foot and the leg.
Upper Arm
If the upper arm is broken, make three splints, one long enough to reach from the shoulder to the elbow to go on the outside of the arm, one to go on the inner side of the arm, and one on the back of the arm. Pad the arm from the armpit to the elbow with cotton, towels, or newspapers wrapped in cloth, and, after bandaging on the splints, put the forearm in a sling and bind the arm to the body.
Forearm
If the forearm is broken, make a cotton pad long enough to reach from the fingers well up to the forearm, and rest the palm of the hand on it. Put a similar pad on the back of the hand, and, after bandaging in a splint, put the arm in a sling.
Hand
If the hand is broken, put a cotton pad on the palm and over it a thin splint long enough to reach from the tips of the fingers to the forearm. After binding the splint in place, put the arm in a sling with the hand higher than the elbow.
Finger
If a finger is broken, make a splint of cardboard or a thin piece of wood long enough to reach from the tip of the finger to the wrist. Cover the finger with gauze or cotton, and, after binding on the splint, support the hand in a sling.
Fainting
Fainting comes from too little blood in the head. Lay the boy on his back with feet higher than his head. Loosen tight clothing and let him have plenty of fresh air. Sprinkle his face with cold water and rub his arms with it. For an attack of dizziness, bend the head down firmly between the knees. If his face is flushed, raise the head.
Stunned
Lay the boy on his back with head somewhat raised. Apply heat, such as bottles of hot water, hot plates or stones wrapped in towels to the extremities and over the stomach, but keep the head cool with wet cloths. Do not give any stimulant; it would drive blood to the brain.
Stretcher
A stretcher may be improvised in one of the following ways: (a) A shutter, door, or gate covered well with straw, hay, clothing, or burlap bagging.
(b) A piece of carpet, blanket, sacking, tarlatan, spread out, and two stout poles rolled up in the sides. Put clothes for a pillow.
(c) A coat with the two sleeves turned inside out; pass two poles through the sleeves, button the coat over them. (See illustration.) Patient sits on coat and rests against the back of the first bearer.
(d) Two poles passed through a couple of bags, through holes at bottom corners of each.
Carry a patient by walking out of step, and take short paces, about 18 inches apart. Usually carry the patient feet first, but in going up hill the position is reversed, and the patient is carried head first.
The following illustrations explain the process of carrying a patient without a stretcher:
PREVENTION FROM DROWNING
Learn to Swim
Every summer records its hundreds of drowning accidents, many of which might have been prevented if methods of rescue had been generally taught. No boy should be permitted to enter a boat, particularly a canoe, until he has learned to swim. The movement to teach swimming to every boy and young man in North America who does not know how to swim is both commendable and practical. The text-book used largely is "At Home in the Water," by George H. Corsan, issued by the publishers of this book.
Button Awards
Summer camps provide a special opportunity for giving such instruction. To each individual who is actually taught to swim in camp a silver-oxidized button is given by the Association's International Committee, 124 East 28th St., New York, provided the test is made under the supervision of a committee of three men. Those who teach others to swim receive a gold oxidized leader's button. Write to the Physical Department at the above address for information.
U. S. V. Life Saving Corps
An Auxiliary Division of the U. S. Volunteer Life Saving Corps should be established to patrol the water during swimming periods. Any camper may qualify for membership by taking the following examinations: the boy to receive not less than 6 points in 10 point subjects, and not less than 3 points on 5 point subjects, with a total of 75 points. Those receiving less than 75 points may become members of auxiliary crews.
HOW TO QUALIFY. 1 Swimming not less than 100 yards and 25 yards on back. 10 points 2 Diving, plunging, floating, fetching. 10 points 3 Rescue drill on land and water. 10 points 4 Release drill on land and in water. 10 points 5 Resuscitation. 10 points 6 Names of parts of a row boat. 5 points 7 Rowing and boat handling. 10 points 8 Use of life saving appliances. 10 points 9 First aid work and remedies. 10 points 10 Written examination on work in water. 5 points 11 Written examination on work in boats. 5 points 12 Written examination on work on land. 5 points
Organization
To organize at camps, officials will proceed by conducting the above-mentioned examinations. Should there be five or more successful competitors, crews can be organized as follows, the regular form of enrollment being employed and no enlistments required:
Five men constitute a crew entitling one of the five to the rank of acting third lieutenant.
Ten men constitute two crews with acting second and third lieutenants.
Fifteen men constitute three crews with acting first, second, and third lieutenants.
Twenty men constitute four crews (or a division) with acting captain, first, second, and third lieutenants, lieutenant surgeon, quartermaster, boatswain, and one coxswain for each crew or three coxswains.
Auxiliary members over eighteen years of age may become active members after leaving camps and receive active membership commissions, provided they affiliate with some active permanent crew in their home district.
Auxiliary members holding our certificates shall be entitled to auxiliary membership buttons, but active members only are entitled to wear the official badge of membership of the corps.
Summer camps will be equipped, at the discretion of headquarters, on the following conditions:
That they shall pay all express on supplies to and from camps.
That they shall report at the end of each season the exact condition of the supplies and make provision for the safekeeping of same for future seasons, or return same.
Medicine chests must be returned.
Instructors will be sent to the various camps, at the discretion of headquarters, whenever possible. All expenses, traveling, board, etc., but not services, must be covered by the camps.
Examination questions will be found in our book, "Instruction on Subjects for Examination for Membership." If desired, camp officials can make examinations more rigid than outlined by us.
Examination papers furnished on request.
The above information was furnished by K. F. Mehrtens, Assistant Secretary, United States Volunteer Life Saving Corps, 63-65 Park Row, New York City.
Training Course
Efficient life saving comes from thorough experience and training, not from a theory. These subjects for instruction may be taught preparatory to the summer camp, as well as during the camping season.
Swimming to include straight-away, swimming with clothes on, floating, diving, fetching: strokes—perfect breast stroke, side stroke, overhead stroke, crawl stroke.
Rescue Methods to include rescuing a supposedly drowning person. Use of life saving apparatus.
Methods of Release to include grasping by the wrist, clutch around the neck and grasp around the body.
Resuscitation of the apparently drowned, including the Sylvester method described on page 194, and the simple "first aid" rules.
Boat Handling to include rowing a boat, taking a person into a boat from the water, clinging to a boat without capsizing it, etc.
Knot Tying to include all kinds of knots and their value in connection with life-saving work, and the use of them on life-saving appliances.
Wig-wagging to include the committing to memory of the U. S. Naval Wig-Wag Signal Code. The following is used at Camp Wawayanda, New Jersey Boys.
WIG-WAG CODE
Signalling by wig-wag is carried on by waving a flag in certain ways, represented by the figures 1, 2 and 3, and thus letters are made and words spelled.
Two wig-wag flags are used, one a square white flag with a red square in the center, and the other a square red flag with white square in the center.
Only one flag is used in signalling, and that one is selected which can best be seen against the boy's background.
U. S. NAVAL WIG-WAG SIGNAL CODE.
ALPHABET. A 22 B 2112 C 121 D 222 F 2221 G 2211 H 122 I 1 J 1122 K 2121 L 221 M 1221 N 11 O 21 P 121 Q 1211 R 211 S 212 T 2 U 112 V 1222 W 1121 X 2122 Y 111 Z 2222 Tion 1112
ALPHABET CLASSIFIED. I 1 N 11 Y 111
E 12 H 122 V 1222 U 112 J 1122
C 121 Q 1211 M 1221 P 1212 W 1121
T 2 A 22 D 222 Z 2222
O 21 R 211 L 221 G 2211 F 2221
S 212 X 2122 B 2112 K 2121
Numerals 1 1111 2 2222 3 1112 4 2221 5 1122 6 2211 7 1222 8 2111 9 1221 0 2112
Conventional signals
End of word, 3 End of sentence, 33 End of message, 333 I understand, A.A. 3 Cease signalling, A.A.A. 333 Repeat last word, C.C. 3 Repeat last message, C.C.C. 3 I have made an error, E.E. 3
WIG-WAG RULES
1. The boy should face the person to whom he is signalling, and should hold the flag-staff vertically in front of the centre of his body, with the butt at the height of his waist.
2. The motion represented by the Figure 1 is made by waving the flag down to the right; 2, by waving it down to the left; and 3, by waving it down in front of the sender. (Page 188)
3. Each motion should embrace an arc of ninety degrees, starting from and returning to the vertical without a pause.
4. When two or more motions are required to make a letter, there should be no pause between the motions.
5. At the end of each letter there should be a slight pause at the vertical.
6. At the end of each word, one front motion (3) should be made; at the end of a sentence, two fronts (33); and at the end of a message, three fronts (333).
7. To call a boat, signal the initial letter of her name until answered. To answer a call, signal A.A. 3 (I understand).
8. If the sender makes an error he should immediately signal E.E. 3 (I have made an error), and resume the message, beginning with the last word sent correctly.
9. If the receiver does not understand a signal he should signal C.C. 3 (Repeat last word); the sender should then repeat the last word and proceed with the message.
EXAMINATIONS USED BY THE U. S. V. L. S. C., CAMP BECKET Y. Y. C. A. AUXILIARY CORPS, AUGUST 24, 1910
A-Boat Work—10 Points 1. With what knot should you tie a boat? 2. Define amidships, thole-pin[1], painter[2]. 3. Define port, starboard, aft. 4. Explain briefly a rescue from the bow. 5. Explain briefly a rescue from the stern.
[Transcriber's Footnote 1: thole-pin: Pairs of wooden pegs set in the gunwales as an oarlock.]
[Transcriber's Footnote 2: painter: Rope attached to the bow for tying up when docking or towing.]
B-Water Work—10 Points 1. Describe breakaway Number 3. 2. "Before jumping into water for rescue, be sure to do-" what? 3. Give two ways to locate a body. 4. If you are seized and cannot break away, what should you do? 5. "If in a strong outsetting tide, it is advisable when rescuing to-" do what?
C—General First Aid—10 Points 1. How and where do you apply a tourniquet? 2. Give the treatment for fainting. 3. Give the treatment for sun-stroke. 4. Give the treatment for wounds. 5. Give the treatment for and symptoms of shock.
D-Wig-Wag—10 points Translate into code "Go send them help quick." Translate into English "1121-12-3-1121-22-11-2-3-22-3-2112-21-22-2-333."
E-Write an essay on general methods, precautions, etc., for rescuing. — 20 Points
F-Write an essay on how you would restore an apparently drowned man to consciousness.—20 Points
G-Practical First Aid (Make appointment with the doctor.)
GENERAL HINTS
Kick!
If you work your hands like paddles and kick your feet, you can stay above water for several hours, even with your clothes on. It requires a little courage and enough strength of mind not to lose your head.
Cramps
Many boy swimmers make the mistake of going into the water too soon after eating. The stomach and digestive organs are busy preparing the food for the blood and body. Suddenly they are called upon to care for the work of the swimmer. The change is too quick for the organs, the process of digestion stops. Congestion is apt to follow, and then the paralyzing cramps.
Indian Method
The Indians have a method of protecting themselves from cramps. Coming to a bathing pool, an Indian swimmer, after stripping off and before entering the water, vigorously rubs the pit of his stomach with the dry palms of his hands. This rubbing probably takes a minute; then he dashes cold water all over his stomach and continues the rubbing for another minute, and after that he is ready for his plunge. If the water in which you are going to swim is cold, try this Indian method of getting ready before plunging into the water.
Rule
The rule for entering the water, in most camps, is as follows: "No one of the party shall enter the water for swimming or bathing except at time and place designated." Laxity in the observance of this rule will result disastrously.
RESCUE FROM DROWNING
Rescue
To rescue a drowning person from the water, always try to pull him out with an oar, a rope, a coat (holding the end of one sleeve and throwing him the other), or some other convenient object. If you are obliged to jump in after him, approach him with great caution, throw your left arm around his neck with his back to your side (Figure 1), in which position he can't grapple you, and swim with your legs and right arm. If he should succeed in grasping you, take a long breath, sink with him, place your feet or knees against his body, and push yourself free.
Although life may seem extinct, make every effort at resuscitation. Various procedures are advocated. The Sylvester method is one of the best.
Hold the boy for it few seconds as in Figure 2, to get rid of water which may have been taken in. Do this several times. Tear off clothing. Rub briskly the legs and arms toward the body. Draw the tongue forward every three seconds for a minute. If these methods fail to restore breathing, then perform artificial respiration, first sending for a physician.
Lay the boy on his back with a folded coat or sweater under his shoulders, and grasp his wrists or his arms straight up over his head as in Figure 3.
Pull steadily and firmly in that position while you count 1, 2, 3. This causes air to enter the lungs. Then quickly bring his arms down on his chest and press them firmly on his ribs (Figure 4) while you again count 1, 2, 3. This forces the air out of the lungs. Then quickly carry his arms over his head and down again, and repeat the same routine fast enough to make him breathe from twelve to sixteen times a minute. The tendency is to work too fast. If the work is done properly the air can be heard distinctly as it passes in and out of the air passages. Sometimes the tongue drops back in the throat, stopping it up so no air can enter. If you suspect this, have an assistant grasp the tongue with a handkerchief and keep it pulled forward.
Cuts used by courtesy of Health-Education League.
Don't Give Up
It will make it much easier if you have another person push on the ribs for you when you relax the arms, as shown in Figure 5. Have him place the hands as shown in the figure with the thumbs toward the medium line in front, the fingers farther away, the palms just below the breasts; this will make the boy's nipples come just midway between the ends of the thumbs and the middle joint of the forefinger. Press firmly downward and inward toward the backbone.
Continue these motions about fifteen times per minute. Keep this up until the boy begins to breathe, himself. When done properly, the work is hard for the operator, and he should be relieved by some one else as soon as he gets tired.
Warmth and Quiet
As soon as the boy begins to breathe himself—but not before—his limbs should be well rubbed toward the heart. This will help to restore the circulation. He should afterward be put to bed, well covered with warm blankets, hot stones being placed at his feet, and warm drinks administered. Fresh air and quiet will do the rest.
Books
"Boys' Drill Regulation," published by the National First Aid Association of America, and "Boys' Life Brigade Manual of Drill," published by the Boys' Life Brigade, London, England, are two small books containing a number of practical drills which may be used in training the boys in camp for emergency work.
Instruction
Every camp for boys, no matter how small or how large, should plan for instruction in First Aid. This may be done by the camp physician, the director, the physical director, or some physician invited to spend several days in the camp.
Drills
The illustration on page 174 shows how one hundred boys were trained in Camp Couchiching. The "litter" drill was especially attractive to the boys of Camp Becket. The boys were sent out in the woods in brigades of five each, one of whom was the leader. Only a small hatchet was taken by each squad. One of the boys was supposed to have broken his leg. An improvised "litter," or, stretcher, was made of saplings or boughs, strapped together with handkerchiefs and belts, so that in ten minutes after they left the camp the first squad returned with the boy on the litter and in a fairly comfortable condition.
Health Talks
A course of health talks given in popular form by those who are well versed upon the subject, cannot help but be instructive and productive of a greater ambition on the part of the boy to take good care of his body. The following list of subjects is suggestive:
The Human Body and How to Keep It in Health 1 The Skeleton. 2 The Muscular System. 3 The Vascular System. 4 The Nervous System. 5 The Digestive System. 6 The Lungs, Skin and Kidneys.
Personal Hygiene 1 The Eye, its use and abuse. 2 How to care for the Teeth. 3 Breathing and pure air. 4 Microbes and keeping clean. 7 The health of the Skin. 8 Some facts about the Nose. 9 Our Lungs. 10 Eating. 11 Alcohol. 12 Tobacco and the Human Body. 13 The Use and Care of Finger Nails. 14 Cause of Colds.
The American Red Cross Society, 715 Union Trust Bldg., Washington, D. C., issues a series of five handsomely lithographed wall charts mounted on linen and heavy rollers. These charts are numbered as follows and may be purchased for $2.50 for the set.
Chart I. The Skeleton; Chart II. The Muscles; Chart III. Scheme of Systematic Circulation; Chart IV. Fracture and Dislocation; Chart V. Arteries and Points' of Pressure for Controlling Hemorrhage.
These charts will make the talks doubly attractive. Honor points are given boys for essays written upon the Health Talks. Some camps found that boys were desirous of taking examinations in First Aid. In one camp twenty-three boys won the Certificates of the American Red Cross Society. For information write to the Educational Department of the International Committee, Young Men's Christian Association, 124 East 28th Street, New York, or the American Red Cross Society. (See address above)
CHAPTER XVI—PERSONAL HYGIENE
EATING TEETH HANDS EYES EARS NOSE HAIR FEET INTERNAL ORGANS BATHING SLEEP CLOTHING
Eating
Very little thought is given by the boy to what he eats, as long as it suits his taste, and there is an ample supply. The causes of most skin diseases are largely traceable to diet. Chew the food slowly. Don't "bolt" food. Your stomach is not like that of a dog. Food must be thoroughly masticated and moistened with saliva. Hasty chewing and swallowing of food makes masses which tend to sour and become poison. This often accounts for the belching of gas, sense of burning and pain, and other forms of distress after eating. Drink before or after meals. Don't overeat. Conversation aids digestion. Eating between meals is detrimental to good digestion. Regular meal hours should prevail. After dinner is the best time to eat candy or sweets.
The Teeth
If the tooth brush gets lost make one out of a dry stick, about six inches long, which can be frayed out at the ends like the illustration. A clean mouth is as important as a clean body. The teeth should be cleaned twice a day, morning and evening. Insist upon the bringing of a tooth brush to camp. Impress upon the boys that time spent upon teeth cleansing will prevent hours of agony upon a dentist chair. Cleansing the teeth of sticky deposits by running fine threads between them, in addition to the use of a brush and a simple powder, prevents deposits from becoming the starting point of decay.
The Hands
Care of hands and nails is much neglected in camp, Nails should be properly trimmed and the "mourning" removed from underneath the nails. The habit of biting the finger nails is dangerous. Finger nails should be cut once a week with sharp scissors or "clip." If the nails be neglected and a scratch received from the infected fingers the system may be inoculated with disease. The cleansing of the hands after using the lavatory needs special emphasis, for in no place do more germs collect and spread. Boys should not be permitted to use each other's towels, combs, brushes, or soap. A towel may carry germs from one boy to another.
The Eyes
Never strain the eyes. When reading, always let the light come over the shoulder and upon the page, the eyes being in the shadow. Do not read with the sunlight streaming across the page. When writing have the light come from the left side. Do not rub the eyes with the hands. Headaches and nervousness are due largely to defective vision. "Work, play, rest and sleep, muscular exercise, wise feeding, and regular removal of the waste—these and all other hygienic habits help to keep the eyes sound and strong."—Sedgewick.
The Ear
It is dangerous to put a pointed pencil or anything sharpened into the ear. "Boxing" the ear, shouting in the ear, exploding a paper bag, may split the drum and cause deafness. The best way to remove excess wax from the ear is to use a soft, damp cloth over the end of the finger. Ear-wax is a protection against insects getting in from the outside.
The Nose
Keep the nose free from obstructions, and avoid the use of dirty handkerchiefs. Always breathe through the nose and not through the mouth. Boys who observe this rule will not get thirsty while on a hike or get out of breath so easily. They don't breathe in all sorts of microbes or seeds of disease, and they don't snore at night.
The Hair
In washing the hair avoid using soap more than once a week, as it removes the natural oil of the hair. Frequent combing and brushing adds to the lustre, and the head gets a beneficial form of massage. Wear no hat at camp, except to protect from sun rays or rain.
The Feet
Footwear is a matter of importance. Shoes should never be worn too tight. They not only hinder free movements, but also hinder the blood circulation, and cause coldness and numbness of the extremities. Sore feet, because of ill-fitting shoes, are a detriment to happy camp life. Have good, well-fitting, roomy shoes, and fairly stout ones. Keep the feet dry. If they are allowed to get wet, the skin is softened and very soon gets blistered and rubbed raw.
Figure 1 shows a perfectly shaped foot. This is the natural shape, and if the boy is allowed to go barefooted or wear sandals, his foot will assume this shape. Figure 2 shows the distorted shape brought about by cramped shoes. The best thing to wear is thick moccasins of moose hide.
Internal Organs
Constipation is a frequent camp complaint, and is usually the result of change in diet and drinking water. The habit of having a daily movement of the bowels is of great importance to a boy's health. The retention of these waste products within the body for a longer period tends to produce poisonous impurities of the blood, a muddy-looking skin, headaches, piles, and many other evils. Eat plenty of fruit, prunes, and graham bread. Drink plenty of water. Take plenty of exercise.
Bathing
One bath a day in fresh water is all that is necessary. Boys go into the water too often and remain too long. This accounts for the rundown appearance of some boys. The body gives off heat every minute it is in cool water, and also when exposed wet to the breezes, and heat is life. All boys should be encouraged to take a dip before breakfast with a rapid rubdown. Then a good swim in the warm part of the day. Usually about 11:30 A.M. is a good time for the swim. If a swim is taken after supper, be careful to dress warm afterward.
Sleep
Normal boys need nine or ten hours sleep. Sleep is a time for physical growth. Have the tent open back and front at night to insure plenty of fresh air. There must be a complete change of clothing on retiring. Flannel clothing should be worn at night. Sleep alone. Nine o'clock or nine-thirty, at latest, should find every boy in bed.
Clothing
Wear clean clothing, particularly underwear. Frequently a rash appearing on the body is a result of wearing dirty-shirts. The wearing of belts tends to constrict the abdomen, thus hindering the natural action of the intestines, which is essential to good digestion. Hernia (ruptures) may result from wearing tightly drawn belts. To dress the body too warm lessens the power to resist cold when there happens to be a change in the atmosphere. Put on extra clothing at sundown, without waiting to begin to feel cold. During eating of meals it is well to have the legs and arms covered when it is at all cool. The cooling of large surfaces of the body while eating, even if it is not noticed, retards digestion, and taxes the vitality. Many a boy gets a cold by neglecting to take this precaution.
GENERAL HINTS
Two flannel shirts are better than two overcoats.
Don't wring out flannels or woolens. Wash in cold water, very soapy, and then hang them up dripping wet, and they will not shrink.
If you keep your head from getting hot, and keep your feet dry, there will be little danger of sickness.
If your head gets too hot, put green leaves inside your hat.
If your throat is parched and you can get no water, put a pebble in your mouth. This will start the saliva and quench the thirst.
HEALTH MAXIMS AND QUOTATIONS
"Keep thyself pure."
"Health is wealth."
"A sound mind in a sound body."
"Fresh air and sunshine are necessary to good health."
"Cleanliness is the best guard against disease."
"A clean mouth is as important as a clean body."
"Virtue never dwelt long with filth."
"Temperance, exercise, and repose Slam the door on the doctor's nose." —Longfellow.
"Cleanliness is next to Godliness." "Health and cheerfulness naturally beget each other." —Addison.
"Nor love, nor honor, wealth nor power, Can give the heart a cheerful hour, When health is lost. Be truly wise. With health, all taste of pleasure flies." —Gay.
"Health is a second blessing that we mortals are capable of: a blessing that money cannot buy." —Walton.
"There are three wicks, you know, to the lamp of a man's life: brain, blood, and breath. Press the brain a little, its light goes out, followed by both the others. Stop the heart a minute, and out go all three of the wicks. Choke the air out of the lungs, and presently the fluid ceases to supply the other centres of flame, and all is soon stagnation, cold, and darkness." —O. W. Holmes.
CHAPTER XVII—ATHLETICS, CAMPUS GAMES, AQUATICS AND WATER SPORTS
PURPOSE OF GAMES BASEBALL LEAGUE GROUP CLASSIFICATION WHAT TO AVOID ATHLETIC EVENTS AWARDS MAKING ATHLETIC APPARATUS CAMPUS GAMES CIRCLE JUMPING WOLF ROVER ALL COME OVER INDIAN AND WHITE MAN GERMAN BOWLING TETHER BALL VOLLEY BALL AQUATIC SPORTS WATER GAMES WATER BASKET BALL WATER BASEBALL OLD CLOTHES RACE TILTING CANOE TAG WHALE HUNT MAKING A "SHOOT-THE-CHUTE" ARCHERY THE TARGET THE BOW MAKING A BOW MAKING ARROWS ESSENTIAL POINTS IN ARCHERY BIBLIOGRAPHY
If I can teach these boys to study and play together, freely and with fairness to one another, I shall make them fit to live and work together in society.—Henry van Dyke.
Purpose of Games
The spirit of camping is too frequently destroyed by over-emphasis upon competitive games. Play is necessary for the growing boy and play that engages many participants has the most value. America today is suffering from highly specialized, semi-professional athletics and games. "When athletics degenerate into a mere spectacle, then is the stability of the nation weakened. Greece led the world, while the youth of that great country deemed it an honor to struggle for the laurel leaf, and gymnasiums were everywhere and universally used and the people saw little good in an education that neglected the body. It is a significant fact that the degeneracy of Greece was synchronous with the degrading of athletics into mere professional contests. What had been the athletics of the people became a spectacle for the people." [1]
[Footnote 1: Emmett D. Angell in "Play," p. 19.]
Baseball League
Do not allow the athletics and games of the camp to become a mere spectacle for the campers. Something should be planned for every boy and every boy encouraged to participate in the program. Nothing has yet taken the place of the good old American game of baseball. Divide the camp boys into teams. Have a league playing a series of games. The teams may be named after the different colleges or prominent cities or as one camp named the league, the "Food League" after popular camp dishes, such as: "Prunes," "Beans," "Soup," "Hash," "Mush," "Chipped Beef." It is needless to state that the boys in the league not only had a lot of fun, but the camp paper contained very amusing accounts of the games played.
Arrange a schedule of games and keep accurate records of all games played either in the "Camp Log" or camp paper. A dinner given to the winning team adds to the excitement of the league's existence. Do not neglect the younger boys; have two "Midget" teams engage in a series for best two out of three games. Occasionally a game between the leaders and older boys is the exciting game of the season, especially if the leaders are defeated.
The same rule of participation should govern the athletics of the camp. Inter-tent games help to develop group loyalty, cooperation, fair play, and courtesy to opponents so desirable.
Groups
In some camps the boys are divided into two groups, those under five feet in height and those over five feet. Events are planned for these two groups. The system of grouping suggested by the School Athletic League, is that of grouping the boys according to physiological rather than chronological age, as follows: Pre-pubescent boys under 90 pounds. Pubescent boys or juniors, 90 to 110 pounds. Post-pubescent or intermediates, 110 to 130 pounds. Seniors, above 130 pounds.
The boys are weighed in competing costume. This system is looked upon as being fair and practical.
What to Avoid
The following should be avoided—Marathon runs, sustained effort in and under water and competitive long-distance running. The longest sprint race should be, for boys, 50 yards, for juniors, 75 yards. No adolescent who is not past the pubescent stage should run sprint races longer than 100 yards. Cross-country running is beneficial when taken at a slow pace and without competition. Every boy should be examined for heart weakness before entering the strenuous games.
The above is the opinion of physical directors from twenty-one different States and may be considered authoritative. This same opinion prevails among most of the experienced camp leaders and workers among boys.
Events
The athletics usually planned for camp are: 50 yard dash for boys; 75-yard dash for juniors; 100 yard dash for seniors; running high jump; running broad jump; pole vault; 8 and 12-pound shot-put; baseball throw and relay race.
Awards
Ribbon awards presented to the winners at a special meeting of the campers aid considerably in fostering the true spirit of clean athletics and wholesome sport and are appreciated by the winners as souvenirs of the good-natured contest.
Camps possessing a stereopticon[1] should secure the set of slides and lecture accompanying from the Moral Education League of Baltimore, Md., entitled "The True Sportsman." Rental terms are five dollars a week and expressage.
[Transcribers Footnote 1: stereopticon: A magic lantern, with two projectors arranged to produce dissolving views.]
A perpetual cup for all-round proficiency, upon which is engraved the name of each year's winner, is a good way of recording the annual athletic meet.
A shield with the names of the winners of the season's events painted or burned upon it and hung up in the camp lodge helps to retain the interest of the winner in the camp after he has become a "grown-up" or alumnus.
Apparatus
Boys who like to make things may be put to work making various pieces of athletic apparatus. A Take-Off may be made of a plank or board, 8 inches wide and 36 inches long, sunk flush with the earth. The outer edge of this plank is considered the scratch line. Remove the earth to a depth of three inches and width of twelve inches.
To make a pair of jumping standards, first saw out the bottom blocks, each being 10 x 10 inches and 2 inches thick. In the center of each block chisel out a hole 2 x 2 inches and about 1 inch in depth. Into these holes fit the ends of the upright pieces, which should be 5 feet long and 2 inches square. Before securing the upright pieces, bore holes an inch apart, into which may be inserted a piece of heavy wire or large wire nail to hold up the cross piece or jumping stick. Be sure to space the holes alike on both uprights, so the crosspiece will set level when the standard is in use. Four 5-inch braces are fastened in at the lower part of the upright. Study the diagram and you will succeed in making a pretty good pair of standards.
Campus Games
After supper is usually a period in the camp life rather difficult of occupation. "Campus Games" appeal to most boys. These games are designed especially for the after-supper hour, although they may be played at any time.
Circle Jumping
Stand the boys in a circle with all hands clasped. One of the crowd lies down in the center with a rope as long as one-half the diameter of the circle. To the end of the rope is tied a small weight like a sand bag. He whirls the weight around with the full length of rope revolving with increasing rapidity. As it approaches the players, they hop up and let it pass under their feet. The one whose foot is touched is out of the game and the boy who keeps out of the way of the rope the longest is the winner.
Wolf
Here is a Japanese game full of fun and action. Place a dozen or more boys in line, and have each fellow place his hands firmly on the shoulders of the boy in front of him. Choose one of the fellows for the "Wolf." The first boy at the head of the line is called the "Head" of the Serpent, and the last fellow is the "Tail." The "Wolf" stands near the head of the Serpent until a signal is given. Then he tries to catch the "Tail" without touching any other part of the snake. The boys who form the body of the Serpent protect the "Tail" by wreathing about in all sorts of twists to prevent the "Wolf" from catching the "Tail." This must be done without breaking the line. When the "Tail" is caught, the "Wolf" becomes the "Head," and the "Tail" becomes the "Wolf." The last boy in line is the "Tail." The game can be continued until every boy has been the "Wolf."
Rover, All Come Over
A line is marked dividing the campus. All the boys gather on one side. One boy in the center endeavors to have them step over the line by calling out, "Rover, Rover, all come over!" At the word "over" everybody is expected to run and cross the line, while the center man endeavors to catch one. The one caught must help him catch the others. If any one runs over before the center man calls "over," he has to go to the aid of the catcher. When all are caught the game begins again.
Indian and White Man
The game of "Indian and White Man" is interesting. A circle is drawn on the campus. It is supposed that the white people are travelling over the prairie, and at night time they prepare to camp. The circle represents their camp. The Whites lie down to sleep and sentries are posted. The Indians discover the camp and endeavor to capture the Whites. Then comes the battle royal. Every Indian captured in the white man's circle counts one, and every white man captured by the Indians outside the circle counts one for their side. The game continues until all of either side are captured. The players are divided into two groups. The Indians are concealed in the bushes or some place unseen by the Whites and they make the attack.
Such games as "Three Deep," "Bull in the Ring," "Tag Game," "Leap Frog," will be found to interest the boys during the after-supper period.
The following are campus games requiring apparatus:
German Bowling
Plant in the ground two posts, leaving at least 15 feet above ground. Spike a 10-foot piece across the top (see page 218). An ordinary ball used in bowling is used by plugging shut the holes and inserting a screw eye in one of the plugged holes. Tie tightly to this screw eye a strong piece of rope. A good-sized screw eye is fastened in the cross piece of the frame, and to this tie the ball. Nine bowling pins are used. The score is the same as bowling. The pins are knocked off by the return of the ball, as shown in the diagram.
Tether Ball
The upright pole should be standing ten feet out of the ground and firmly imbedded in the earth so as not to vibrate.
The pole should be 7-1/2 inches in circumference at the ground and tapering toward the upper end. Paint a black or white 2-inch band around the pole 6 feet above the ground. Draw a circle about the pole on the ground having a 3-foot radius. A 20-foot line must bisect the circle. Use a tennis ball having a netted or tightly fitting linen cover. The ball is fastened to a string with a ring and suspended from the top of the pole by a piece of heavy braided fish line. The cord should allow the ball to hang 7-1/2 feet. Tennis racquets are used. The two players stand at point marked with an X in the diagram. In the toss-up for courts the loser is the server. The ball may be struck in any manner with the racquet, the endeavor being to wind the string upon the pole above the painted band.
Volley Ball
Stretch a tennis net across the campus and mark a court fifty feet long, to be divided equally by the net. The play consists in keeping in motion the ball over the net from one side to the other, until one fails to return it, which counts as an out. The ball used is similar to a football, only smaller. The game consists of twenty-one points.
Many of the camps have tennis courts and hold tournaments. This game is so universal and familiar that no description will be made.
AQUATIC SPORTS AND WATER GAMES
Aquatic sports may be arranged so that active interest will be taken by all the boys, or they may be simply an exhibition of the swimming abilities of several boys. The former is decidedly preferable. Events should be arranged for the small as well as the large boys.
ATHLETICS AND WATER SPORTS 221
The program of events should include a short dash, swimming under water, diving for form, fancy swimming and special stunts, ribbon awards or inexpensive cups to be given the winners. The Life Saving Corps will have an opportunity to give an exhibition of their skill and alertness, as well as patrol the swimming beach. Good reliable fellows should be appointed to watch each swimmer when in the water. Run no chances at any time that boys are in the water. The following water games have been suggested by A. B. Wegener.
1. Three-legged swimming. 2. Tug of War. 3. Bobbing for Corks. 4. Plunging through hoops for height or distance. 5. Diving for objects. 6. Egg Race; holding the egg in a spoon either in the mouth or hand. 7. Tag games. 8. Potato race; using corks instead of potatoes. 9. Candle race; candles are lighted and must be kept lighted. 10. Various land games may be adapted for water use, such as ball passing (using a water polo ball), relay race, etc.
Water Basket Ball
Two peach baskets, or rope baskets, or two iron rings are hung upon poles five feet above the water and forty feet apart. The game is played similarly to basket ball, except that the players are allowed to advance with the ball. Tackling and ducking are fouls and penalized by allowing a free throw for goal from a point fifteen feet away. There is no out of bounds, and a basket may be thrown from any place in the water. A field goal counts two points, and a goal from a foul one point.
Water Baseball
The outfit required is a tennis ball, a broom stick and four rafts— one large and three small. The batsman and catcher stand on the big raft. On a small raft, ten yards away, stands the pitcher and the other two rafts are placed at easy swimming distance for bases. In striking, everything counts—bunt, swat or foul tip. The moment bat and ball come in contact the batsman starts for first base. There are five men on a side. Lots of fun. Avoid remaining in fresh water too long as it has a tendency to weaken vitality.
Old Clothes Race
The contestants are dressed in a full suit of old clothes. At the word "go" they dive into the water and swim to a float placed at a certain distance away, undress and return. This is a very funny race.
Tilting
Two boats manned by four boys each. One boy is the spearman and is armed with a light pole about eight or ten feet long, having a soft pad of rags, or better yet, of water-proof canvas duck to keep it from getting wet and soggy. If a flat-bottom boat is used, the spearman stands on one of the end seats. A quarter-deck or raised platform should be built on an ordinary boat or canoe. The battle is fought in rounds and by points. If you put your opponent back into the boat with one foot it counts you 5; two feet, 10. If he loses his spear you count 5 (except when he is put overboard). If you put him down on one knee on the "fighting deck," you count 5; two knees, 10. If you put him overboard it counts 25. One hundred points is a round. A battle is for one or more rounds as agreed upon. It is forbidden to strike below the belt. The umpire may dock for fouls.
Canoe Tag
Any number of canoes or boats may engage in this water game. A rubber football is used. The game is to tag the other canoe or boat by throwing this into it. The rules are as in ordinary cross tag.
Whale Hunt
The "whale" is made of a big log of wood with a rough-shaped head and tail to represent a whale. Two boats are used, each manned by the boys of one tent—the leader acting as captain, a boy as bowman or harpooner, the others as oarsmen. Each boat belongs to a different harbor, the two harbors being some distance apart. The umpire takes the "whale" and lets it loose about half-way between the two harbors and on a signal the two boats race out to see who can get to the "whale" first. The harpooner who first arrives within range of the "whale" drives his harpoon into it and the boat promptly turns around and tows the "whale" to its harbor. The second boat pursues and when it overtakes the other, also harpoons the "whale," turns around and endeavors to tow the "whale" to its harbor. In this way the two boats have a tug-of-war and eventually the better boat tows the "whale" and possibly the opposing boat into its harbor.
Shoot-the-Chute
A "Shoot-the-Chute" is great fun and one should be built in every permanent camp and "Swimming Hole." The one described is by A. D. Murray and has stood the test of several years in a number of camps.
The plan drawn is for a chute 40 feet long, 3 feet wide and 18 feet high. These dimensions can be changed in length and height, but not in width. The chute is built of 7/8-inch matched pine boards, to the same width as sheet zinc, usually 3 feet; the boards being firmly cleated together on the under side by 2 x 6-inch cleats 5 feet apart, throughout the length of the chute. Boards should be screwed to the cleats from the face of the chute with 1-1/2-inch screws, the heads being counter sunk. The several lengths of zinc are soldered into one piece, the joints being on the under side (as shingles on a roof) fastened to the boards with 8-oz. tacks; set in from the edge about 1 inch and about 6 inches apart. The side strips of maple (soft wood will not do on account of the danger of splintering) 2 inches wide and 3 inches high, rounded slightly on upper edge, are placed directly over the edge of the zinc and covering the tacks. Screw the strips firmly to the chute with 2-inch screws from the under side. These ought to be placed not more than 2 feet apart. Probably each will have two or more strips in making a piece of sufficient length. If so, care should be taken to have the pieces joined on a bevel with a slant from outer edge toward bottom of chute so as to leave no edge. The utmost care should be used to have a perfectly smooth surface on the inside of the chute. A pump or bucket is needed at the top of the chute to wet the surface before the swimmer starts his slide. The supports A, B, C, should be firmly braced with 2 x 4-inch timber, D, and lower end of chute should extend over the pier at least 1 foot and not nearer the surface of the water than 3 feet perpendicularly, allowing the swimmer to enter the water as in a dive. The chute can be fastened to the supporting braces through timbers E, F, into maple side strips with a good heavy log screw. A platform 3 feet wide and 4 feet long near the top of chute, and set just waist deep from the top of chute will make starting easy.
Archery
Richard the Lion-hearted, of England, said the five essential points of archery—standing, nocking[1], drawing, holding, and loosing—"honestly represented all the principles of life."
Archery develops the muscles in all-round fashion, particularly those of the shoulder, arm and wrist.
[Transcriber's Footnote 1: A nock is the groove at either end of a bow for holding the bowstring or the notch in the end of an arrow that fits on the bowstring.]
The Target
A target can be made of a burlap sack, or oil cloth, about five feet square. Stuff this with hay or straw. It may be flattened by a few quilting stitches put right through with a long packing needle. On this the target is painted. In scoring, the centre is 9, the next circle 7, the next 5, the next 3 and the last circle 1. The shortest match range for the target is forty yards.
The Bow
The bow may be made from any of the following woods—mulberry, sassafras, southern cedar, black locust, black walnut, apple, slippery elm or hickory. In making a bow, select wood with straight grain. The length of the bow should be about the height of the boy using it, or if the boy is between ten and fifteen years of age, his bow should not be less than four feet in length and not more than five feet. When buying a bow get one of lancewood backed with hickory.
Making A Bow
The making of the bow and arrow is described by A. Neeley Hall, as follows: "Cut your piece of wood five feet long, and, after placing it in a bench vise to hold it in position, shape it down with a drawknife or plane until it is one inch wide by one-half inch thick at the handle, and three quarters inch wide by one-quarter inch thick at the ends. The bow can be made round or flat on the face toward the archer. Cut a notch in the bow two inches from each end, as shown in the illustration, from which to attach the bow-string. A cord with as little elasticity as possible should be used for this. A good string can be purchased for twenty-five cents.
With a home-made bow-string, a loop should be made in one end and bound with thread, as shown in illustration, p. 227. Slip the loop over the upper notch, bend the bow until the center of the string is about five inches away from the handle, and attach the loose end to the lower notch by means of a slip-knot similar to that shown in the drawing. The bow should then be sandpapered until smooth, and thoroughly oiled with linseed oil. Glue a piece of velvet about three inches wide around the center for a handle."
Making Arrows
Arrows are divided into three parts: the head, sometimes called the pile, the shaft and the feathers. The shaft is generally made of hickory, ash, elm or pine, and its length is dependent upon that of the bow. For a five-foot bow, make the length two feet and the width and thickness about one-half inch. For target practice a wire nail driven into the end of the pile, as shown on page 227, with the head of the nail filed off and pointed, makes an excellent head. Feathering is the next operation. Turkey and goose feathers are generally used. Strip off the broader side of the vane of three feathers and glue them to the shaft one inch and a quarter from the notch, spacing them equally from each other. One feather should be placed at right angles to the notch. This is known as the cock feather and should always point away from the bow when the arrow is shot.
Archery
The rules for the five essential points are these:
Standing: In taking position to draw the bow, the heels must be seven to eight inches apart, feet firm on the ground, yet easy and springy, not rigid.
Nocking: This is manipulating the bow string. Hold the string with two fingers and the arrow between the first and second fingers. Grip firmly, but not so as to give awkwardness to any finger.
Drawing: In drawing stand with the left shoulder toward the target, turning the head only from the neck and looking over the left shoulder. Then raise the bow with the left hand, keeping the upper end inclined one or two degrees from the body. With the right hand draw the arrow to chin-level and below the ear.
Holding: Steady the aim a moment and keep the point of aim directly in view, looking along the whole length of the arrow.
Loosing: In letting the arrow go, do not jerk, but loose smoothly, and be certain your bow arm does not move when loosing. To get a clean, sharp loose is more than half way to hitting the target.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Indoor and Outdoor Game.(188)—A. M. Chesley. American Sports Publishing Co.
An Athletic Primer, Group XII., No. 87—J. E. Sullivan. American Sports Publishing Co.
Official Handbook Y. M. C. A. Athletic League, Group XII., No. 302.—American Sports Publishing Co. Tether Tennis, Volley Ball, Etc., No. 188.—American Sports Publishing Co.
The above booklets are published at 10 cents each, and should be in the hands of every camp leader, also the latest guides in Baseball and Tennis.
At Home in the Water—George H. Corsan. Association Press, 75 cents. Twenty pages of this excellent book are devoted to water sports, and it also contains complete rules for Water Polo, a splendid game for adults, but unwise to play in a boys' camp.
The Birch Bark Roll—Ernest Thompson-Seton. Doubleday, Page & Co., 25 cents.
Two Little Savages—Ernest Thompson-Seton. Doubleday, Page & Co., $1.75.
These books give valuable hints on Archery, which is peculiarly adapted for camp life and sport.
The Witchery of Archery—Maurice Thompson. Charles Scribner's Sons, $1.50. Fascinating and entertaining.
CHAPTER XVIII—NATURE STUDY
THE OUT-DOOR INSTINCT ANTIQUITY OF NATURE STUDY THE MODERN IDEA BOY COLLECTORS AROUSING INTEREST HERBARIUMS HOMEMADE PRESS EQUIPMENT NEW KIND OF HUNTING WALKS AFIELD NIGHT SOUNDS "FISHOLOGY" PURPOSEFUL TRIPS OUTDOOR TALKS ON NATURE BIBLIOGRAPHY
If nature is to be a resource in a man's life, one's relation to her must not be too exact and formal, but more that of a lover and friend.—John Burroughs.
Outdoor Instinct
"The boy is always nearer to the heart of nature than the grown man. He has a passionate love of the open air and of the fields and woods; he is never really happy indoors. Nature has planted this outdoor instinct in the boy's heart for the good of the race." Day and night teach him their lessons. The boy will absorb much that is interesting and also much that will be of real value in giving him a broader outlook upon life. Camping gives abundant opportunity for the study of nature.
Nature study is not a fad of modern times. Nearly three hundred and fifty years before Christ, Alexander the Great placed at the disposal of his tutor, Aristotle, the services of one thousand men throughout Asia and Greece with instructions to collect and report details concerning the life, conditions and habits of fishes, birds, beasts and insects. To this magnificent equipment of assistants, Alexander added fifteen thousand dollars in gold for books and laboratory supplies.
Prof. L. H. Bailey says, "The modern idea of Nature Study is, to put the boy in a sympathetic attitude toward nature for the purpose of increasing the joy of living. Nature study is not science. It is not knowledge. It is spirit. It is concerned with the boy's outlook on the world.... This Nature spirit is growing, and there are many ways of knowing the fields and woods. A new literature has been born. It is the literature of the out-of-doors."
Collectors
Boys are natural born collectors. They are interrogation points, full of curiosity, like the "man from Missouri," they want to know. The wise leader will say, "Let us find out some thing about this tree, or plant, or bird, or whatever it may be, and together we will be learners." The textbook method will not work in a boys' camp. "Go find me a flower" is the true method, and let us see what it is. Nature study books and leaflets should be used merely as guides, not as texts.
Arousing Interest
Arouse interest by encouraging the boys to make collections of leaves, flowers, etc., found in the vicinity of the camp. Leaves and flowers may be pressed in a home-made press and mounted upon heavy paper or cardboard. The following suggestions are given by Dan Beard and quoted by permission of Charles Scribner's Sons from his Book, "The Field and Forest Handy Book."
Herbarium
"The illustration shows how the press is made. In using the press, first place the plants or leaves, enclosed in their wrappers and dryers of newspapers, on the bottom board, put the top board over them, bring the hinged lever down and bind the whole together with a stout strap put around the end of the lever and the handle of the bottom board. As this strap is drawn tight the lever bends, and so keeps a constant pressure on the plants and leaves even when they shrink in drying. Dryers should be changed at least every day. Mount specimens on separate herbarium sheets of standard size (1-1/2 X 16-1/2). Each specimen should be mounted with name (common and botanical), where found, date and any other facts of interest. This label is usually pasted in the lower right hand corner of the herbarium sheet."
Equipment
If the camp has a permanent building, these specimens make a most attractive decoration as well as help to recall the happy days of "the hunt." The material equipment for nature study should consist of a good loose leaf note-book, something that will stand the out-door wear. Get quadrille ruled sheets. They will simplify sketching in the matter of proportion and scale. A pocket magnifying glass will serve for identification of the specimens. An inexpensive combination tweezer and magnifying glass is made by Asher Kleinman, 250 Eighth Avenue, New York (50 cents). Best of all is a high-power microscope, especially where the camp has a permanent building with suitable room, having a good light and table facilities. A camera will help in securing permanent records of trees, ferns, flowers, birds, freaks of nature and scenes other than the usual camp groups. A few reliable books on nature study are needed to complete the outfit.
Hunting
A "bird hunt" was a popular sport in one of my camps. We started off early one morning, a group of boys, each "loaded" with a big lunchbox crammed with good things, a note-book, a book on bird-life, and a "gun." The "gun" we used was a powerful pair of field glasses. On the way we counted the number of bird-homes we saw. Just as we were thinking about stopping and having breakfast we heard a most ecstatic song. Creeping close to the place where the sound came from, we discovered the songster to be a song-sparrow. Focussing our "gun" upon the bird we made note of its coloring and marking, making sure that if we heard or saw another we would recognize it at once. While we were eating our breakfast, there was a dash of white, yellow, and grayish-brown, a whirring sound and, as the bird lighted upon the low bushes nearby, a clear, piercing whistle came from its throat. Our "gun" revealed to us a meadow lark. By this time the boys were as much excited over the bird hunt as over a game of ball.
Walks Afield
A "flower walk," observing the wild flowers; a "fern walk," discerning the delicate tracery of the fern in its cool haunts; a "tree walk", noting the different trees—all are natural ways of interesting boys in nature study.
Night Sounds
G. B. Affleck in the April, 1910, number of Physical Training tells his experience in studying nature with several groups of boys.
"The night sounds surrounding a camp in northern Minnesota were a puzzle to boys and to the counsellor of the tent at the end of the row. This problem continued unsolved for more than a week, despite all attempts both by day and night. Finally, one moist, warm night, Ned, after stealthily approaching the sound, satisfied himself of its location in a certain tree and in the morning was rewarded by the discovery of the 'toad' camped on a branch near the source whence the sound had issued. Replacing the frog so that the coarse tubercles of its back corresponded to the bark, Ned enjoyed a merited reward at the expense of his tent mates who, though often 'hot,' required some minutes to find the hidden treasure. Then came the wonder of the stick toes and fingers, the feeding with flies, and the result was—a new pet for the tent. In the next letters written to the folks this find was the central theme. How much better this discovery and the examination of the peculiar colors and structures, also the conclusions, based upon observed structure, as to the life and habits of the tree frog than would have been a scientifically learned discussion of the family Hylidae!
"In a camp of fifty boys the writer remembers three who had special delight in collecting pebbles, and they made several all-day trips to distant brooks and beaches in the search for new specimens. Another group became so fascinated with the study of the food of fish that they begged the 'privilege' of cleaning the catch of each returning party. Proud was that lad who incidentally located the heart of a pickerel, and because of his school knowledge of physiology he could not be convinced that the fish breathed without lungs till he had spent many hours in the vain endeavor to locate said organs. Then he knew that his former idea had been inadequate.
Fishology
"Fortunately, nature is so interrelated in her various phases that an attempt at exploration in one direction soon opens other fields, until with the growth of experience there comes a corresponding expansion of interest. Thus the lads, searching for pebbles, were perforce attracted by the plant and insect life of the brook, and the one delving into the mystery of breathing oxygen without lungs developed a new interest in the physics of fluids, while those who located the tree frog enlarged their sphere by the knowledge that their pet rejected some of the 'bugs' offered it.
"The leader, commencing thus with the limited or special interest of each group, may evolve in his own mind the plan which most naturally will lead the boys not only into a wider field of concrete facts, but also into the habit of seeing relationships, of drawing conclusions and of raising questions for further investigation.
"A group of boys interested in a study of fish may well be organized for an all-day trip to the root of the rapids or the bay of springs; others with geological preferences may spend a night on the top of the distant hill which offers outcroppings of interest; the embryo botanists cannot do better than to take a bog trot for the rare orchid, anomalous pitcher plant, or glistening sun dew; lovers of the deep shade may paddle to the inlet of the creek and there enjoy a side trip on the fragrant carpet of hemlock and pine needles; thus it will be found that by anticipating the probable findings in which the particular group is interested the leader gives a point and purpose, adding not only to the enjoyment of the outing, but imparting, in addition, some satisfactory knowledge of the vicinity."
Longfellow said that a "strong evidence of goodly character was the thoughtfulness one displayed in caring for a tree." One of the best things at Camp Becket was a series of out-door talks on nature given by Silas H. Berry. Seated on a huge rock, he told the boys about the shaping and clothing of the earth, foundation stones, mountains and hills, lakes, ponds, and rivers, the beginning of vegetable life, the variation and place of the freak, the forest and its place in the world's progress, the alternation of the forest crop, man and his neighbors. Another afternoon the boys went into the woods and while they squatted on Nature's mattress of fragrant pine needles (see illustration, page 230), he told about leaves and their work, cells and their place, roots and their arrangement, tendrils and their mechanism, flowers and their devices, seeds and their travels. The third talk was upon the evolution of plant life, law and logic of creation, perpetuation of life in the lower forms, edible and poisonous mushrooms, and the perpetuation of life in the higher forms. The boys had a different conception of life thereafter and they possessed that nature-love which always tends toward naturalness and simplicity of living. They could sing with feeling.
I love thy rocks and rills, Thy woods and templed hills.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
How Nature Study Should be Taught—Edward F. Bigelow, Ph.D. Hinds, Noble and Eldridge, $1.00. A book of inspiration. Many practical suggestions are given for arousing interest among boys in Nature Study.
The Nature Study Idea—Liberty H. Bailey. Macmillan Co., $1.25 net. An interpretation of the new movement to put the boy in sympathy with Nature.
Field and Forest Handy Book—Dan Beard. Charles Scribner's Sons, $2.00. Nothing better published for the benefit of those having permanent camps. It should be placed in the hands of every boy.
Outdoors, Indoors, and Up the Chimney—Charles McIlvaine. Sunday School Times Co., 75 cents net. A series of interesting stories about commonplace things. Just the kind of information to give a boy on rainy days.
Dan Beard's Animal Book. Moffat, Yard & Company, $1.75 net. Filled with the kind of incidents about animals that boys delight to hear, including the famous bear stories. Also tells about the Campfire Club of Animals.
How to Study Birds—Herbert K. Job. Outing Publishing Co., $1.50 net. Takes up the practical side of bird study. Describes the outfit necessary for studying the birds in the open. A valuable book.
Manual of Common American Insects—William Beautenmuller. 25 cents.
Manual of Common Butterflies and Moths—William Beautenmuller. Funk & Wagnalls Co., 25 cents. Two pocket manuals in which the insects, butterflies and moths are reproduced in natural colors with their common and scientific names.
Wilderness Pets at Camp Buckshaw—Edward Breck. Houghton, Mifflin Company, $1.50 net. True tales of wilderness pets written by an experienced woodsman. Intensely interesting.
Young Folks' Nature Field Book—J. Alden Loring. Dana, Estes & Co., $1.00. Contains a seasonable hint for every day in the year. The alternate pages are left blank for notes or record of things seen.
"How to Know the Wild Flowers"—F. T. Parsons. Charles Scribner's Sons, $2.00 net.
"How to Know the Ferns "—F. T. Parsons. Charles Scribner's Sons, $1.50 net.
"Familiar Trees and Their Leaves"—F. D. Matthews. Appleton and Company, $1.75 net. Three reliable handbooks written in popular style.
An Out-of-Door Diary—Marion Miller. Sturgis and Walton Co., $1.25 net. Suitable for very young boys.
CHAPTER XIX—FORECASTING THE WEATHER
WEATHER TABLE CLOUDS RAIN CLEAR WEATHER WINDS HOW TO TELL DIRECTION OF WIND SIGNALS LOST ON A CLOUDY DAY POINTS OF COMPASS HOME-MADE WEATHER PROPHET PLANT BAROMETER BIBLIOGRAPHY
Sunshine is delicious. Rain is refreshing. Wind braces up. Snow is exhilarating. There is really no such thing as bad weather, only different kinds of good weather. —Ruskin.
It is said that this weather table by Buzzacott is so near the truth as seldom or never to be found to fail.
FORECASTING THE WEATHER If the New Moon, First Quarter, Full Moon, or Last Quarter, comes between In Summer In Winter 12 and 2 AM Fair Frost, unless wind S.W. 2 and 4 AM Cold and showers Snow and stormy 4 and 6 AM Rain Rain 6 and 8 AM Wind and rain Stormy 8 and 10 AM Changeable Cold rain if wind W. Snow if E. 10 and 12 PM Frequent showers Cold and high wind 12 and 2 PM Very rainy Snow or rain 2 and 4 PM Changeable Fair and mild 4 and 6 PM Fair Fair 6 and 8 PM Fair if wind N.W. Fair and frosty if wind N. or N.E. 8 and 10 PM Rainy if S. or S.W. Rain or snow if S. or S.W. 10 and 12 AM Fair Fair and frosty
Clouds
Every cloud is a weather sign. Low clouds swiftly moving indicate coolness and rain. Soft clouds, moderate winds, fine weather. Hard-edged clouds, wind. Rolled or ragged clouds, strong wind. "Mackerel" sky, twelve hours dry.
Rain
Look out for rain when The tree frog cries. Fish swim near the surface. Walls are unusually damp. Flies are troublesome and sting sharply. A slack rope tightens. Smoke beats downward. Sun is red in the morning. There is a pale yellow sunset.
Rain with East wind is lengthy. A sudden shower is soon over. A slow rain lasts long. Rain before seven, clear before eleven. Sun drawing water, sure sign of rain. A circle round the moon means "storm."
"When the grass is dry at night Look for rain before the light; When the grass is dry at morning light Look for rain before the night."
"When the dew is on the grass Rain will never come to pass."
Fog in the morning, bright sunny day. Swallow flying high means clearing weather. If the sun goes down cloudy Friday, sure of a clear Sunday. Busy spiders mean fine weather.
THE WINDS
East wind brings rain. West wind brings clear, bright, cool weather. North wind brings cold. South wind brings heat. Birds fly high when the barometer is high, and low when the barometer is low.
Direction of Wind
The way to find which way the wind is blowing, if there is only very light breeze, is to throw up little bits of dry grass; or to hold up a handful of light dust and let it fall, or to suck your thumb and wet it all round and let the wind blow over it, and the cold side of it will then tell you which way the wind is blowing.
Weather Bureau
The U. S. Department of Agriculture Weather Bureau publishes a "Classification of clouds," in colors which may be had for the asking. If you are near one of the weather signal stations daily bulletins will be sent to camp upon request, also the weather map.
A set of flag signals run up each day will create interest. The flags are easily made, or may be purchased.
Keep a daily record of temperature. A boy in charge of the "Weather Bureau" will find it to be full of interest, as well as to offer an opportunity to render the camp a real service. He will make a weather vane, post a daily bulletin board, keep a record of temperature, measure velocity of wind and rainfall.
If you have lost your bearings and it is a cloudy day, put the point of your knife blade on your thumb nail, and turn the blade around until the full shadow of the blade is on the nail. This will tell you where the sun is, and decide in which direction the camp is.
Points of Compass
Face the sun in the morning, spread out your arms straight from body. Before you is the east; behind you is the west; to your right hand is the south; to the left hand is the north.
A Home-made Weather Prophet
For a home-made barometer you need a clean, clear glass bottle. Take one drachm[1] each of camphor gum, saltpetre and ammonia salts, and dissolve them in thirteen drachms of pure alcohol. Shake till dissolved. Then pour in bottle and cork tightly. Hang the bottle of mixture against the wall facing north, and it will prove a perfect weather prophet. When the liquid is clear it promises fair weather. When it is muddy or cloudy it is a sign of rain. When little white flakes settle in the bottom it means that the weather is growing colder, and the thicker the deposit the colder it becomes. Fine, starry flakes foretell a storm, and large flakes are signs of snow. When the liquid seems full of little, threadlike forms that gradually rise to the top, it means wind and sudden storm.
[Transcriber's Footnote 1: Dram, drachma; drachm; U.S. Customary System equal to 1/16 of an ounce or 27.34 grains (1.77 grams). Apothecary weight equal to 1/8 of an ounce or 60 grains (3.89 grams).]
U. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE WEATHER BUREAU. EXPLANATION OF FLAG SIGNALS,
No. 1, alone, indicates fair weather, stationary temperature. No. 2, alone. Indicates rain or snow, stationary temperature. No. 3, alone, indicates local rain, stationary temperature. No. 1, with No. 4 above it, indicates fair weather, warmer No. 1, with No. 4 below it, indicates fair weather, colder. No. 2, with No. 4 above it, indicates warmer weather, rain or snow. No. 2, with No. 4 below it, indicates colder weather, rain or snow. No. 8, with No. 4 above it, indicates warmer weather with local rains. No. 3, with No. 4 below it, indicates colder weather with local rains. No. 1, with No. 5 above it, indicates fair weather, cold wave. No. 2, with No. 5 above it, indicates wet weather, cold wave.
Forecasts made at 10 A.M., and displayed between 12 and 1 P.M., forecast the weather for the following day until 8 P.M.
FORECASTING THE WEATHER 245
Plant Barometers
The dandelion is an excellent barometer, one of the commonest and most reliable. It is when the blooms have seeded and are in the fluffy, feathery condition that its weather prophet facilities come to the fore. In fine weather the ball extends to the full, but when rain approaches, it shuts like an umbrella. If the weather is inclined to be showery it keeps shut all the time, only opening when the danger from the wet is past.
The ordinary clover and all its varieties, including the trefoil and the shamrock, are barometers. When rain is coming, the leaves shut together like the shells of an oyster and do not open again until fine weather is assured. For a day or two before rain comes their stems swell to an appreciable extent and stiffen so that the leaves are borne more upright than usual. This stem swelling when rain is expected is a feature of many towering grasses.
The fingers of which the leaves of the horse chestnut are made up keep flat and fanlike so long as fine weather is likely to continue. With the coming of rain, however, they droop, as if to offer less resistance to the weather. The scarlet pimpernel, nicknamed the "poor man's weather glass," or wind cope, opens its flowers only to fine weather. As soon as rain is in the air it shuts up and remains closed until the shower or storm is over.
BIBLIOGRAPHY.
Talk About the Weather—Charles Barnard. Funk & Wagnalls Co., 75 cents. A little book of valuable hints and suggestions about the weather and the philosophy of temperature and rainfall in their relation to living things.
Woodcraft—Jones and Woodward. C. Arthur Pearson, Ltd., 35 cents. Contains an excellent chapter on weather lore in addition to a mass of valuable information on woodcraft.
Bulletin of the U. S. Weather Bureau, Washington, D. C,
CHAPTER XX—RAINY DAY GAMES AND SUGGESTIONS
DELIGHTS OF A RAINY DAY ACCUMULATED ENERGY HANDKERCHIEF TUSSLE POTATO JOUST TERRIER FIGHT CIRCLE BALL LEG WRESTLE HAND WRESTLING ROOSTER FIGHT SHOE AND SWEATER RACE PEANUT RELAY RACE INTERESTING TESTS BIBLIOGRAPHY
We knew it would rain for the poplars showed The white of their leaves, and amber grain Shrunk in the wind and the lightning now Is tangled in tremulous skeins of rain. —Aldrich.
Rainy days break the monotony of continuous sunshiny days. There is nothing that is so fascinating to a boy in camp as listening to the patter of the rain drops upon the roof of his canvas house, especially at night, if he is snug and warm in his blankets and the tent is waterproof. A rainy day is the kind of a day when the chess and checker enthusiasts get together. Games are rescued from the bottom of the trunk or box. Ponchos and rubber boots are now in popular favor. Thunder and lightning but add to the boys' enjoyment. What indescribable excitement there is in the shivers and shudders caused by an extra flash of lightning or a double fortissimo roll of thunder! There is also the delight, of playing in the puddles of water and wearing a bathing suit and enjoying a real shower bath.
To some boys it is repair day, rips are sewed up, buttons sewed on clothing, and for the initiated, the darning of socks. In camps with permanent buildings a big log fire roars in the fireplace, the boys sprawl on the floor with their faces toward the fire, and while the rain plays a tattoo[1] upon the roof some one reads aloud an interesting story, such as "Treasure Island," "The Shadowless Man," "The Bishop's Shadow," or the chapters on "The Beneficent Rain" and "When the Dew Falls," from Jean M. Thompson's book, "Water Wonders." It all depends upon one's viewpoint whether rainy days are delightful or disagreeable.
[Transcriber's Footnote 1: Signal on a drum or bugle to summon soldiers to their quarters at night. Continuous, even drumming or rapping.]
Surplus Energy
Boys are barometers. Restlessness is usually a sign of an approaching storm. The wise leader senses the situation and begins preparing his plans. If the rain is from the east and comes drizzling down, better plan a several day program, for after the excitement of the first few hours' rain, the boys begin to loll around, lie on the cots, or hang around the kitchen and develop a disease known as "Grouchitis." During the first stages of the disease the boys are inactive and accumulate an over-supply of energy, which must find an outlet. Here is where the leader plays an important part in handling the case; he provides an outlet for the expenditure of this surplus energy by planning games demanding use of muscle and the expenditure of energy and noise. The big mess tent, or dining hall, is cleared and romping games are organized.
The games suggested are adapted for rainy days and selected from a catalogue of several hundred games.
RAINY DAY GAMES
Few sports are better calculated than a potato joust to amuse boys on rainy days. It has all the joys of a combat, and yet, try as he will, there is no possibility for any boy to become rough.
Potato Joust
In the potato joust each warrior is armed with a fork, on the end of which is a potato. The combatants take their position in the center of the playroom, facing each other. They should be separated by not less than three feet. Each must lift a leg from the floor (see illustration, next page). The fighters may use their own discretion as to which leg shall be lifted from the floor and may hold it up with either hand they prefer. A small cushion placed under the knee will add materially to the comfort of the contestants. |
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