Page:Burke, W.S. - Cycling in Bengal (1898).djvu/24

 into the frame should contain the following articles:— 1 pair breeches, 2 shirts, 1 banian, 1 pair stockings, 1 cap, pyjamas, towel, handkerchiefs, air pillow, comb and brush, soap, &c. A blanket, tightly rolled, can be strapped on the handle bar, and a spare strap should be carried for securing the coat when riding without it. This kit wil lbe found ample on a trip which carries one far from Mofussil stations and the railway; but where the halting places admit of luggage being booked ahead, there will be no necessity to encumber one's self with anything but the cap and strap.

Presuming that the cyclist intends leaving the beaten track, he will require, in addition to the above, a small bag or leather case, such as most of the cyclist's outfitters offer, fixed on the inside of the handle bar (so that he can get at it without dismounting), and containing:—knife, fork and spoon, a "shikaries'" pocket knife, a flask of brandy, packets of tea and sugar, sun goggles, enamelled iron goblet, a serviette, and (not forgetting) a phial of, say, Carter's little liver pills, and a bottle of Chlorodyne. These will occupy but a few inches cubic space; the tea and sugar can be stowed in the goblet, the rest of the things can be rolled up in the serviette so as not to rattle, and there will still be room for fruit and etceteras, which can be bought on the road. The tea and sugar are really necessary, for except at the dâk bungalows, no food can be obtained. For example,on reaching what is called an "Inspection bungalow" (chiefly used by officials on tour), one finds furniture, crockery, &c, but no provisions and no cook. Here it is that the tea comes in, likewise the brandy, for the chowkidar in charge is