all the time. Thus a hot hoosh is
preparing in the central vessel side by side with the melting of snow
for cocoa or tea in the annulus. By the combination of "Nansen Cooker"
and primus stove one gallon of kerosene oil properly husbanded is made
to last for twelve days in the preparation of the ordinary ration for
three men.

[TEXT ILLUSTRATION]

Section through a Nansen Sledging Cooker mounted on the primus

The subject of food is one which requires peculiar consideration
and study. It is assumed that a polar expedition must carry all its
food-stuffs in that variety and quantity which may approximately satisfy
normal demands. Fortunately, the advance of science has been such that
necessaries like vegetables, fruit, meats and milk are now preserved so
that the chances of bacterial contamination are reduced to a minimum. A
cold climate is an additional security towards the same end.

Speaking generally, while living for months in an Antarctic hut, it is a
splendid thing to have more than the mere necessaries of life. Since
one is cut off from the ordinary amenities of social existence, it is
particularly necessary that equipment and food should be of the very
best; in some measure to replace a lack which sooner or later makes
itself keenly felt. Explorers, after all, are only mortal.

Luxuries, then, are good in moderation, and mainly for their
psychological effect. After a spell of routine, a celebration is the
natural sequel, and if there are delicacies which in civilization are
more palatable than usual, why not take them to where they will receive
a still fuller and heartier appreciation? There is a corresponding rise
in the "tide of life" and the ennui of the same task, in the same
place, in the same wind, is not so noticeable. So we did not forget our
asparagus and jugged hare.

In the matter of sledging foods, one comes down to a solid basis of
dietetics. But even dietetics as a science has to stand aside when
actual experience speaks. Dietetics deals with proteins, carbohydrates,
fats, and calories: all terms which need definition and comprehension
before the value of a sledging ration can be fundamentally understood.
When the subject was first introduced into table conversation at the
Hut, it was regarded somewhat suspiciously as "shop." But it gradually
won interest simply because it was of such vital concern.

In sledging there is undoubtedly a critical allowance which will yield
the best results. Ci