First Aid Journal 1908-1909

The Independent Journal fQr the Ambulance and Fire Services.

To

As it is the wish and desire of the Proprietors to make this J oumal as instructive and entertaining as possible, correspondents in all parts of the country are asked to give it all the help they can. Superintendents of Corps and Officers of Divisions of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, Officers of the Royal Army Medical Corps (Volunteers), the Volunteer Ambulance School of Instruction, and Chief Officers of Fire Brigades will, it is hoped, do their best to make it known amongst the members of their respective organisations, and will also send for publication their official news and notices. Suggest tions are invited for Prize Competitions and other matters which will adva nce the interest of the Jouma!.

We particularly desire to ask our correspondents to be brief and to the point in any communications they may send us for publication.

Correspondents sending in photos are urgently requested to state on the back of the same he name of the individual or the Corps or Brigade, and give also the name and address of the sender.

We beg to advise our readers that we do not pay for photographs or copy sent, unless previously agreed upon in writing.

" First Aid" is published on the 20th of the month.

EDITORIAL.

IT is once more om privilege at the 1907. opening of another year to briefly pass in review a few of the events which have marked the progress of the one just closed.

In connection with civil ambulance matters there is no important event to chronicle. The work, however, continues to show steady progress. In No. 4 District, under the able, energetic and capable Deputy Commissioner, Colonel Trimble, C. M.G., assisted by his no less enthusiastic staff, progress almost phenomenal is shown-as evidenced by the large number of Divisions which are acquiring, or aspiring to possess, thoroughly upto-date headquarters.

The following Divisions have made substantial progress in this direction during the past year. The foundation stone for new headquarters has been laid at Colne. And at Kendal, a town which holds a high record as an ambulance centre, new headquarters were recently opened by Mrs. Jocelyne Bagot, RRC. Radcliffe, another promising Division, secured the attendance of the "Hero of Mafeking" to open its new Ambulance Headquarters, and on that occasion General

Baden Powell once more gave evidence of the high opinion which he entertains of the Brigade and the work in which its members are engaged.

In NO.3 District, although up to now, no Corps or Division is yet in possession of its own headquarters. Northampton, one of the oldest corps in the Brigade, is making strenuous efforts to enlist financial support, with a view to the attainment of this object. Birmingham also, aspires to the possession of suitable quarters in which to carryon the work in this important City. The annual Whitsuntide Camp in connection with the District was as usual a most pronounced success, and the Deputy Commissioner, Colonel Elliston, v'D., and his able and energetic assistant, Mr. T. H. Woolston, are to be congratulated on its thoroughness both as regards its instructive as well as its popular character. We venture to assert that ther'e are few camps of instruction, even those held under Government auspices, which can show better results.

In Nos. 5, 6 and 7, one of the most gratifying signs of progress, has been the steady growth of the movement amongst the mining constituencies. The evident necessity which exists for this may be easily gathered by even an occasional perusal of mining statistics. Colonel Gibbon, v'D., Deputy Commissioner, No. 6 District, assisted by his District Supt. of Stores, Mr. C. B. Palmer, is leaving no stone unturned to spread the work in the counties of Durham ann Northumberland. In this District also one of the premier towns incorporated within its controlHull-also proposes to have adequate headquarters, and in support of this proposal a bazaar, which was opened by the popular Director of the Ambulance Department of the Order of St. John-the Marquis Breadalbane, K.G.proved a signal success, and undoubtedly gave an impetus to ambulance work in this busy Northern Port.

Progress in both No. and 2 Districts has been well maintained; the appointment of Colonel Lees Hall, late of the R.A.M.C., to the post of Deputy Commissioner of the former District, will we antIcIpate still further augment the progress and prestige of the Headquarters District, and we hope to witness under his able guidance, a recurrence of that evidence of vitality which was so prominent a feature of earlier days.

In connection with the work :and anministration of

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the St. John Ambulance Association, it is gratifying to note that this continues to show evidence of the unsparing devotion and careful management displayed by the able Chief Secretary, Sir Herbert e. Perrott, Bart., e.B., many new centres have been !"ormed, both at home and abroad, and notwithstanding the arduous duties which attach to office routine, Sir Herbert has yet managed to find time to visit several districts, in order to encourage by his presence and by a few well-timed remarks, the voluntary efforts of the local staff. To say that these visits are appreciated is but lightly to express the value which provincial workers to them.

In FireBrigade matters there have been several changes. In connection with the National Fire Brigades Union, Mr. Horace Folker, who had for many years so well and worthily held the post of chief of its secretarial department, has retired and has been succeeded by Capt. H ill, of Bedford. The valuable work rendered to the fire service by Mr. Folker was fittingly acknowledged by his election as a Vice-President of the Union he had served so long and so faithfully. In the Am bulance Department we have to record the resignatIOn of the three principal officers, Chief Surgeon Russell, Chief Officer Ettles and Second Officer Poncerot. The first gentleman had bee!"! connected with the movement almost from its inception, and had done good and efficient service, while the two latter ge ntlemen are entitled to all credit for the progress which ambulance work has made within the Union since the department was reorganised. We have also to record the death during the past year of three well-known mem bers of the service. Chief Officer Gardner (Stroud), Chief Officer Young (Weybridge), and Chief Officer Thomas (Liverpool), the two latter officers were old and valued members of the N. F.B. U., and their presence will be sadly missed at the meetings of its Council and other gatherings. Chief Officer Thomas was one of the founders of the Professional Fire Brigades' Association, and at his death held the post of Chairman. He was a typical fireman, cool, courageous, and universally esteemed by all with whom he came in contact.

In passing it is gratifying to record the satisfactory progress which is being made in ambulance matters within the" vne square mile." The motor am bulance has proved of the utmost utility, and all connected with its working are loud in its praise. The Royal Commission appointed to consider the question of an am bulance service for the metropolis has not yet completed its labours. A large amount of evidence has already been taken, and it is hoped that ere we have to record the doings of another rear a thoroughly reliable ambulance service will have been installed.

One of the most notable events of the year was the

AI D.- January, 1908.

holding of the Red Cross Conference in London. This was attended by the leading members of the movement from a ll parts of the world, and was admittedly one of the most successful conferences ever held.

And now in conclusion, in this, the first month in the year, we crave the indulgence of our readers to say just a few words about "Our J ourna!." FIRST Am can now claim to be an old-established paper, and one which has at all times endeavoured to maintain and uphold the best traditions of the several services, whose mouthpiece it aspires to be. \Ve have al,ways endeavoured to be scrupulously fair in dealing with any subject which has been brought under our notice, and we feel we can conscientiously affirm that, while we bave never failed to criticise matters which were open to cr iti cism, we have never done so unfairly; and many of our readers will sup port our assertion that on more than one occasion the fliendly offices of this Journal have been sought or offered with a view to the smoothing away of little differences which threatened to lead to further trouble. We say this in no boasting spirit, and only mention it to show the confidence which exists between ourselves and our many readers. To one and all we wish a bright and prosperous New Year. May it prove fur all of us a record one, and in recounting its doings, may we be able to point to the valuable services rendered by our subscribers in introducing FIRST Am to fresh readers, and thereby enabling us to chronicle a record increase in our circulation.

Coming Events.

Particulars of fo r tltcom ng ev ents will be in ser t ed ill tllis col umn fl -ee of cha1 ge , if re ce ived not later titan tlt e I4th of eacll moutlt

Lessines.- The committee of the Belgium Federation have decided to hold their 19th Congress here, on the I I th, 12th and 13th of July next, in conjunction with Namur. Valuable prizes will be given. Particulars of Mr. C Kusel, 36, Newton-road, Westbourne -grove, London.

Namur. -The 19th Congress of the Belgian Federation will be held here on June 6th, 7th, and next. I t is hoped that a good many English Firemen will attend.

Paris.-An international competition has been arranged by the Unio n de la Seine, to be held here at \Vhi tsuntide. English steamer brigades are invited to take part. Particulars of Mr. C. Kusel, 36, Newton-road, Westbourne-grove, London.

Soztthampto1Z.- There will be a matinee at the Hippodrome, Jan. 29th, under the patronage of H.R.H. the Princess Louise ( Duchess of Argyll ) to provide funds for the purchase of a horsed ambulance.

The results of the "First Aid" Competition will be declared in our next issue.

January, 1908 -FIRST

Our Portrait Gallery.

MR. HENRY SHARROCK.

LATE SUPT OF BLACKPOOL POLICE FORCE AND e.O. BLACKPOOL FIRE BRIGADE.

"I could not have had a better colleague than he has been" said Ch!ef Constable J. e. Derham, in speaking recently ;f the services rendered by Mr. Her.ry Sharrock, the subject'

AID.- 99

certainly to t:>e one of the smartest anywhere. The which of course Mr. Sharrock had had entirely In hiS charge, was one of the most up-to-date in the country. Experts. from other towns admitted that, and many were the who from all parts for the purpose of learnmg somethtng tn the matter of equipment.

The leadmg points of Mr. Sharrock 's career were feliclt?usly touched upon, but in the opinion of the writer a most Important phase of his activities was overlooked. I refer to his painstaking services to first aid work.

Now it so happens that the man who was Mr. Sharrock's superior officer up to December 31st Mr. Derham a ,Deputy Commissioner of the St. J ohn Bngade, has ambulance wnrk a grand id eal. I may have to. say one ?f these days about his enthUSiasm and achievements In this direction, since his work has been as great an honour to him as it has been his idea!. I the fact in passi?g now in order to impart a truthful sIgmficance and emphaSIS to the sympathy which Mr. Sharrock has shown with the aspirations of his late chief in ambulance matters.

For it is not generally known that while Mr. Derham 's com mands were from the first that mem bers of the Blackpool force should also be certificated first aid men, Mr. Sharrock was the man upon whose shouldels devolved the onerous duties of teaching and drilling, and rend e ring proficient and creditable the raw material. Every member of the Blackpool borough police force understands ambulance work, the majority having been taught by Mr. Sharrock, who even on the occasion on which I saw him a day or two before he retired" took" a class of constables.

Mr. Sharrock was also mentor of the local bran ch of the ambulance brigade, now a powerful organisation. In 1898 that corps presented him with a hug e fram ed photog raph of the then mem bers. 1\1r. Sharrock is se e n sitting In the centre of the group, WIth the chief constable on the right. On the margin at the foot appears the inscription in coloured lettering, "Pres e nted to Chief Inspector Sharrock by the mem bers of the Blackpool Am bulance Corps as a token of great appreciation and valuable services. July, 18 98 ."

of our sketch this month. Mr. Sharrock, he went on to say, had been associated with him in the police force for 25 years and parting with him was so painful that he could not say mush.

The parting referred to took place at the end of last month, when Supt. Sharrock retired from the Blackpool Police Force as well as from the chief officership of the Black pool Fire Brigade, on a pension of £ 185 6s 8d. per annum, the withdrawal having been medically urged owing to the superintendent's failing health.

It was on the occasion of a presentation in the Blackpool Police Court, in the presence of nearly all the members of the borough force, on the 13th ult., that Mr. Derham, labouring under great emotion, made the obsen'ations quoted. The presentation consisted of a silver tea from the officers and men of the force, and of an epergne from the members of the Blackpool Police Glee Party, which the superintendent, himself a singer of no mean ability, organised some years ago.

Ald Fish handed the articles to Mr. Sharrock, alluding in so doing to the conscientious manner in which that gentleman h ad served the town, not only as superintendent of the police, but as head of the fire brigade. The brigade had been brought, he said, to such a state of perfection as

Mr. Sharrock also taught, fo r between two a nd three years, the ladies who now form the Blackpool Nursing Division-whose knowledge of ambulance matters and whose disposition and ability to render first aid has b een demonstrated time and again as an evidence of their g reat usefulness. The present sup e rintendent is Mrs. Orme, who has worked hard and with considerahle skill, to say nothing of her good nature and tact, for the perfection of the interesting employment which Mr. Sharrock helped to inaugurate. •

Many years ago :'-.h. Sharrock was familiar as captain of the victorious squad of policemen, and afterwards of "civilians," who with such distinction won the North East Lancashire Am bulance Challenge Cup, for the possession of which the competition was always keen and exciting.

There are many more features that have distinguished Mr. Sharrock as police officer, fire superintendent, ambulance man and citizen, but the space allotted to me has been already overtaken. Readers \yill recognise at a glance, I think, from the photo given above, that in the popular officer who has just retired, it is admitted on all Sides, Blackpool has had a genial. penetrating and tactful servant, who has devotedly and sagaciously given of his best.

For indeed the character of the man from the countenance is as readable and inspiriting as the tributes to Mr. Sharrock's worthiness have been numerous, eloquent and well deserved. He is still only 46 years old,

and looks forward, therefore, to many .years of wellfreedom from the strenuous actIvItIes that have marked his days "on duty."

Camp Sanitation. *

By P. BROOME GILES, F.R.e.S. Colonel-Commandant of the Volunteer Ambulance School of Instruction.

(Continued from page 94)·

WITH an army in the field, many factors are favourable to the rapid spread of these diseases.

The chief causes being :-

(1.) Men massed closely together.

(2.) Camping ground fouled by previous occupation.

(3.) Water supply contaminated and food infected by dust or flies.

(4.) Power of resistance lowered.

(5.) Want of means of disposal of excreta refuse.

(6.) Age of soldier is more liable to acute Illness.

Let us examine these six factors more closely :-

(I) The massing of human. beings is always provocative of because the aIr becomes foul, and the virulence of the germs increase as the temperature increases, and the resisting power of the blood less e ns.

There is no worse sanitary abode than the regulation circular tent. It has no ventilation, the foul air rises to the top and finds little exit, the with rain or dew, and the InhabItants sleep In a fretld ove n.

The canvas is also no protection against heat or cold.

The ground and blankets become polluted. If the tent has a double lining the ventilation is worse and the suns rays cannot get through.

Men therefore in bell-tents have:-

(a) (b) (c) (d) (e)

Defective ventilation.

High or very low temperature.

Lack of cleanliness.

Defici e ncy of sunlight.

Polluted soil.

(2) Polluted ground from previous camps. The surface and soil of the best camps must get foul by being impregnated with organic matter ; until the organic matter is transformed to inorganic it is a danger; moisture and warmth increase this danger.

It is a well-established fact that both in the Soudan and in South Africa, the camping on old camps was the cause of much si ckness, and that dysenteric germs are harder to kill than enteric.

(3) Polluted water and food cannot fail to produce disease. In fact dysentery, enteric and cholera are often called water-born disease; the germs of each thriving in this medium. The food may either be infected during the hltndling, transit, or by the flies which feed upon it and which have been previously in contact with diseased media fceces, refuse, &c.

(4) The bodily resistance is naturally lowered by irreg ular and insufficient or badly cooked food. Over exertion, little sleep; mental strain such as is experienced 011 sentry duty, and constant exposure and variety of temperature.

* A ecture delivered at the Headquarters of the London Rifle Brigade.

AID. - January, 1908.

(5) There is not the means to efficiently dispose of the refuse and excreta, both of which are a. source of danger because they may infect others;. and files cannot discriminate between them and food, and Journey from one to the other.

Boots also get infected with urine when at the latrines, and men lying on the ground, to or play, come in contact with this urine and so contract dIsease.

(6) The average is YOU?g and careless; just at the agp. when the majorIty of dIseases havE. not been encountered and when acute diseases are most liable. diseases are caused by an invasion of germs the body.

Each disease has its own speCIfic germ whIch reproduces its only special race) viz.: - Dysen tery. will not produce smallpox; cholera will not produce entenc.

Germs are living organisms. There are vegetable and animal germs. Vegetable are des.cnbed according to their shape, as COCCI ur ?vold, but may adhere in long threads-streptococOl or Irregularly staphylococcus.

Animal germs are called protozoa and amoebce, tbe latter are peculiar to dysentery and liver abscess.

A protoplasm is a soft inelastic from whIch tbe primitive tissue of animal and vegetal?le IS formed.

A protozoa is ·the lowest form of ammal hfe.

Amoebce are protozoa wbich have feelers o.r fingerlike processes by which they rr:ove. mcluded under the name of microbes or mlcro-o rgamsatlOns. They are all most minute ; tbe bacillus of enteric being only 1-8000th of an incb long. . .

All these microbes under favourable condItIOns multiply very rapidly. A bacillus splits in two in hour and each division continues the process untIl m twenty-four hours probably a million are produced.

Warm moist media are most favourable for th e Ir growth; so the human body encourages rapid. Many can live outside the body and eXIst m water, soil, dust, milk, &c.

Germs enter the body in water, food, dust, or throu g h broken skin. It is from scientific research into tbe habits of the various germs that we bave discovered how to prevent their growth, consequent spreading, and how to render them innocuous.

In the process of development germs create poisonous products called toxins; which increase in the blood and create fever and reflex symptoms.

Sometimes the blood is in so good a condItIOn that It is not influenced by these germs, and the f?rI?ation of these toxins, and yet be suffiCIently reslstmg to destroy them; so the germs may remain passively dormant, until from some cause the vital powers are lowered and then development takes place.

In certain of the preventable dIseases by a process of attenuation; that is by the introduction of doses of the toxins diluted in serum of the blood, antIdotes or anti-toxins have been discovered; such as the serums against plague, diphtheria, and enteric:

Certain animals insects, as mosqUltoes, have the power of inoculating diseases, such as malaria and sleeping sickness.

We all know that poisons which luckily have, as far as we are aware, only a local effect, are int.roduced the body from the bites of harvest and rr:ldges. So, In certain countries, mosquitoes transmIt malana, and the great bacteriologist Koch has verified tbat sleepm,g SIckness is the result ef mosquito bites, when the has fed on crocodile blood.

January 19 08 -FIRST

The chief preventable diseases of camp are gastro intestinal. They are -

(1) Diarrhrea; (2) dysentry; (3) enteric; also in certain foreign nations you have-(4) cholera; (5) Mediterranean fever; (6) malaria; (7) yellow fever; (8) plague.

You as only likely to be employed in the British Isles should only meet with the first three.

I. Diarrhrea or a looseness of the bowels is often only a symptom of dysentry or enteric, and when it occurs after occupying (a) a stale camp; (b) after known suspicious food or foul water; (c) or when it is epidemic-is certain to be due to a specific germ.

Ordinary simple diarrbrea is caused by-(a) chill; (b) irritating food; (c) badly cooked food; (d) unripeJruit ; (e) water containing sand or silica-in cases no specific germ is discoverable.

2. Dysentry in all cases is due to a specific germ-(a) a bacillus; (b) an annual germ or protozoa. Dysentry is a disease prevalent in-(a) damp localities; (b) stale camps. Its germ is peculiarly tenacious, and lives for a long time in th e earth and in blankets or other clothing when once infected.

The diarrhrea accompanied with much tenesmus or straining after partaking of food or water impregnated with sand is not true dysentry, and has no specific germ.

3. Enteric is caused by a specific germ found in (a) dust· (b) polluted soil, water, and food.

In some epidemics only diarrhrea is noticed, the sufferers being in comparatively fair health, and no doubt the difficulties hitherto in obtaining culture have caused many epidemics.

In future very great precautions will be taken in barracks, in camp, and in the field to facilitate the bacteriological diagnosis of all cases of diarrh rea

Now knowing that the preventabl e diseases of camp . life are caused by certain specific germs and that tbey increase, in moisture, dust, a nd water, care must be taken to select for campin5 purposes the best situation.

You must avoid :-(1) Stale camping ground; (2) clay or damp soil; (3) sand; (4) scrubby ground with rank vegetation; (5) the tops of hills; (6) the hollow go rg es between hills.

Select :-( I) Dry old sound turf ; (2) the sides with gentle slopes of hills ; (3) near good water and a road. The site of the camping ground should be selected by a medical officer and the distribution of the troops allotted by the staff officer.

At once: -( I) Place a guard over all water supplies; (2) construct; (a) the latrines; (b) the washing places; (3) tbe kitchens ; (4) places for refuse; (5) see the tent openings are not in the face of .the. prevalll1g wlI1d (r) 'Vater separate-(a) dnnkmg ; (b) ablutIOn; (c) for ani mals.

(2) Latrines (a) if for more than nights upon latrine buckets with seats and unne tubs; (b) If for less cut tbe trenches-shallow not more than ft. deep s; that the watershed may not be fouled. It is a divided question whether (I) to cut tre.ncbes 18 ins. wide so that tbe m en can defecate WIth theIr legs di vided a foot on each side; (2) or, to cut the 3 ft. wide and the men to use as formerly.

Provided the earth from the trenches is placed sufficiently far from the trench for the men to stand between it and the trench I am in favour of the broader trencb because more men at one time can use the trencb and tbey retire their first step is the loose earth which removes any excreta that by aCCIdent they may get in contact witb.

AID.- 101

Several times a day fatigue men should very lightly sprinkle fine soil on the excreta in the trenches' or when possible, sawdust should be used. ) , When striking camp, dry grass, twigs, straw and a little paraffine should be placed upon excreta and set fire to (here the use of sawdust is valuable) and then the trench lightly fill.-;d in with loose earth; always remember that the sun's rays are the best steriliser. All the excreta and urine of the hospital should be burned.

(To be continued.)

lIIany of our readers doubLless have heard of the latest method 0f artificial respiration-the Schafer method. A demonstration was recently given at the London Hospital, at which many of the eading members of the Royal Life Saving Society were present, most of whom were impressed by the yalue of the new system. By the courtesy of Professor Schafer we are privileged to place before our readers the following short paper (which is reprinted fr0111 the Transactions of the Royal Medical and Chirugical Society) and notes thereon.

A Simple and Efficient Method of Performing Artificial Respiration.

By. E. A. SCHAFER, F.R.S INTROD UCTIO T

THE mechanical methods of performing artificial respiration in the human subject which have been mostly employed up to the present time are :-

1. The Marshall Hall method, which consists in placing the subject in a prone position and the alternately into the lateral and prone posltlon, mak10g pressure upon the back when in the latter position.

2. The Silvester method, in whicb the capacity of the chest is increased by raising the arms above the head and thus dragging upon and elevating the ribs, the chest being emptied by placing the arms against the sides of the chest and exerting lateral pressure on the thorax. The subject is throughout in the supine. position:.

3. The Howard method, whIch consIsts 10 emptying the thorax by forcibly compressing the lower. part of t.be chest; on relaxing the pressure the chest agam fills wIth . air. The subject is throughout in the supine position. It has been shown* that all these methods can be made to effect a suffici ent intake of air in the human subject, but each one of them is attended with certain .dis ac;tvantages, which become accentuate d the subject IS in an asphyxiated condition, and espeCIally wbe? the asphyxia is due to For under stances the muscles are m a lImp, relaxed condltlcn; If the head is thrown back, as when the is supine, there is a tendency for the tongue to. fall mto, and block the pharynx: there may be water In tbe and. an abundance of mucus is usually secreted, whIch, becom1Og churned up into a froth with the air, and water, tends to block the bronchial tubes. There IS also an enormous congestion and swelling of the liver, with and caused by great distension of heart, espec:ally of the right cavities. The last-named VIZ., the congestion of the liver, renders the appltcatIOn of metbod extremely dangerous in cases of drowOlng, forcible pressure upon the lower chest these c?ndltions is apt to produce rupture o.f hver, an aCCIdent which occurred on several occaSIOns 10 the dogs expen-

*Repo rt of Committee on Suspended Animation, 1903.. The amount of exchange per unit of time was, however, not determIned.

men ted upon by Dr. Herring and myself in our investigations into this subject for the Committee of the Royal Medical and Chirurgical Society.

The supine condition is strongly contra-indicated (I) on account of the tendency which there is in this position for the tongue to fall back, and (2) because this position does not facilitate but rather hinders the escape of the water, mucus, and froth from the air-passages, throat, and mouth. The Marshall Hall method has not these disadvantages, but it involves a considerable amount of physical labour, and the rolling of a heavy inert body over upon hard ground or upon the planks of a boat may easily produce bruising and superficial injuries which it should be our endeavour to avoid. The Silvester method, besides the objection that it involves the supine position, an objection which is peculiarly applicable to drowning cases, also demands a very large amount of physical exertion; and the dragging upon the humero-thoracic muscles tends to strain and otherwise to injure them. From the physiological point of view there is a fundamental difference between the Silvester method on the one hand, and the Howard method on the other, since the Silvester method is active in producing inspiration while expiration is passiYe, whilst in the Howard and other pressure methods, expiration is produced actively and inspiration is passive. Since the former appears more exactly to imitate the normal conditions of respiration, it might at first sight be supposed on that account to be preferable, but there is another element to take into consideration, viz., the part which is played by the nervous centre of respiration. For it has been shown (by Herring and Breuer, and by Head) that a main factor in exciting inspiration is the emptying and concomitant collapse of the lungs, so that if they are mechanically caused to collapse the inspiratory centre is stimulated through fibres of the vagus nerves distributed to the lungs, and, when the centre is acting, a normal inspiration is the result of such stimulation. On the other hand, mechanical inflation of the lungs has a tendency to inhibit inspiration and to depress the activity of the respiratory centre. During complete asphyxia the activity of that centre is in abeyance, but, as the subject begins to pass out of the asphyxial condition, it tends to resume its functions, and it is therefore clearly preferable to employ a method of artificial respiration which will stimulate the centre to activity rather than one which will depress its activity. Hence any pressure method on physiological grounds, to be preferred to a traction method-apart altogether from the greater simplicity of manipulation. Further, for the reasons above given, the prone position is to be preferred to the supine, especially in cases of drowning.

The method about to be described presents none of the disadvantages which have been enumerated in considering the older methods. It is safe, efficient, and involves a minimum amount of labour on the part of the operator. It consists in laying the subject in the prone posture, preferably on the ground. The operator puts himself in a position athwart or at the side of the subject, facing his head and kneeling upon one or both knees, and places his hands on each side over the lower part of the (lowest ribs). He then slowly throws the weight of hIS body forward to bear upon his own arms, and thus presses upon the thorax of the subject and forces air out of the lungs. This being effected, he gradually relaxes the pressure by bringing his own body up again to a more er,ect position, but without moving the hands; as he does thiS, air is drawn, by the removal of pressure from the walls by their reaction, into the lungs. ThIS process IS repeated qUlte regularly and without mani-

AI D.-

January, 1908.

fest intervals between the movements not less often than twelve times a minute; it may be done somewhat more rapidly, but fifteen times a minute would in any case, be sufficient. By this means it is easily possible in an average man to effect an exchange of fully 6,500 cubic centimetres per minutd-an amount which is more than enough to maintain complete aeration of the blood.

The advantages of this method may be thus enumerated :-

(I) The ease with which the physical operations necessary to carryon artificial respiration may be performed; hardly any muscular exertion is required.

(2) The efficiency of the gaseous exchange produced by it between the outside air and the air in the lungs.

(3) The extreme simplicity of the procedure; no complex manipulations are required.

(4) The impossibility of the air-passages being blocked by the falling back of the tongue into the pharynx.

(5) In cases of drowning the readiness with which water and mucus are expelled from the air-passages through the mouth and nostrils.

(6) It involves no risk of injury to the congested liver or to any other organ. (To be continued).

Annual Christmas Distribution of Clothing, &c., by the St. John's Gate Nursing Divison.

ST. John's Gate Nursing Sisters once more em ulated at Yuletide the kindly practices of the Old Knights of St. John. On Dec, 19th last a touching and pathetic sight was witnessed at Sl. John's Gate, the occasion was the annual distribution of clothing to the poor children of Clerkenwell, supplemented by toys, crackers, cake and oranges, which made glad the heart of the poor little recipients who came in large numbers, to share the bounty of the Nursing Sisters of the St. John's GJ.te Nursing Division who had for the past year had this object before them. In the hope of reaching the more deserving poor, tickets were placed in the hands of the Rev. and Mrs. Wood who, with their intimate knowledge, made wise distribution. By 6 o'clock a large crowd had collected, which needed the assistance of two constable to control.

In the Storeroom, at the Gate, long tables were spread with the articles to be given, and the sweetmeats and toys gave the place the appearance of a well-stocked Christmas shop.

Upwards of 560 garments of all sorts had been provided, and for three hours the Sisters were busy in a service that must have given them exquisite pleasure.

The poor little pinched and half-clad were brought in batches, in charge of a parent or adult, and were " outfitted" as need suggested, and the little hands were filled with sweets and toys to gladden for a while. The mothers, too, were not forgotten as most of them received a warm garment.

There were several visitors of note and distinction who all expressed their warm appreciation of the Sisters' kindly labours, and this will stimulate the workers to still further efforts for another year.

This work has now been in operation for about fourteen

t The data upon which this statement is made are given in a paper by the author presented to the Royal Society of Edinburgh, and published in the " Proceedings" for 1903, The olher melhods all yielded far smaller results,

January, 19 08 -F IRST

years, each year in preceding one and the earnest WIsh of the wnter IS that the enthusiasm that dominates the Lady Supt., Officers and Nursing Sisters of the St. John's Gate Nursing Division may long continue.-Communicated.

A New Chemical Fire Engine.

THERE can no longer be any doubt that mechanically propelled appliances for the fire service have come to stay. Both professional and volunteer fire brigades, not only within the United Kingdom but in our most distant Colonies, as well as in other parts of the globe, are gradually adopting them. The steadily increasing demar.d for these machines, caused by the record of good work they have already done in the hrtndS of those brigades which had the pluck to adopt them years ago, has had the result, as might have been anticipated, of producing a larger number of competing firms anxious to share in the orders which must ensue as a result of their more general adoption,

and thirdly, the arrangement for mixing the chemIcals IS so excellent that prE'ssure is obtained instantly as it does to over 190 I bs. to the lOch It at once ensures a splendid delivery with which to attack the flames. It may also be mentioned that one tank only is in action at one time, thereby allowing the other to be replenished.

,Messrs. & Plaister appear to have thoroughly studIed the of the fire sf!rvice, and have produced a machIne WhICh, both as to price and efficiency, has yet to be equalled. For country brigades having the protection of large mansions within their area, such a machine should prove invaluable j it entails no expense when not in use, and is at all times ready for instant service when wanted, It can travel far more quickly than any horse-drawn machine, and will n t> gotiate the steepest hill. It starts easily on a gradient of I in 5, and arrives on the scene with life-saving and fire-extinguishing appliances all ready for immediate use. Neither must it be forgotten that the extinguishing power of chemicals is far in excess of

One of the latest, if not the latest, successful competitors in this direction is the firm of Lloyd & Plaister, of Station-road, Wood Green, London, who havejust delivered a machine which, for compactability, usefulness and liability, need fear no comparison. with applIance on the market. The machIne, whIch IS here Illustrated, has been sent to the Municipality of Alexandria, and has been designed to meet special requirements, in order to render it adaptable to the character. of the out there. To attain this object the chaSSIS has been bUIlt of strong but, at the same time, light driven firm's standard 16 h. p. petrol motor, carryIng two cylIndrIcal tanks with a capacity of 25 gals, a fairly roomy hosebox ladders, first aid medical equipment, and a handsome polished copper chemical hose a .po:,'erful portable acetylene lamp for assisting operatIOns withm the interior of a building, is also included.

From the fireman's point of view, we should say that this is one of the handiest" first aid" machines which has yet been designed. The chemical cylinders possess several new and important features; firstly, the method of recharging the acid bottle is a distinct improvement on that of .the majority of chemical engines; secondly, the method of releasing the acid is so perfect that faIlure 1S

that of ordinary water, whilst, owing to t?e smallne.ss ,of the jet, the damage done to proper.ty by ItS means. IS Infinitesimal-a point of the most Vital Importance 10 case of fires in mansions, which are often the reposItory of most valuable heirlooms which, if damaged or destroyed, can never be replaced.

In the case of oil fires, it is now well known and recognised that the only effectual method of ,minimis.ing such conflagrations is by the prompt and effectIve applIcation of chemical extincteurs.

The machine will of course, be found equally useful whether for fires in factories, shops, or ordinary private dwelling-houses, and we may safely th.e machine which we have had the pleasure of lOspectlOg, IS not the last of a similar pattern that this enterprising firm will be asked to supply.

Officers in charge of fire brigades, and members of local bodies having the control of fire matters, who may be contemplating to appl.lances, certainly inspect this mach me, whIch, wIth. but silght alterations could be adapted to the local of any neighbourhood. Inspection .will, we sure, convmce them of its ability to deal WIth any outbreak from the initial stage until its subjectIOn.

Brevities.

No ONE knows better than railway men, says the Daily Telegraplz, the great benefit to themselves and to the travelling public of a widespread and accurate knowledge of the best methods of rendering first aid to the injured. On the Midland Railway's systerJ?, up to September 30th last, no fewer than 3, J 99 men had passed the first examination of the S.J.A.A., 1,580 the second examination, and 4,5 IS the third examination for medallion, making a total of 9,294 duly qualified men, or 13'01 per cent. of the whole staff. In addition to these awards the company has given during the past year nim·teen gold medals, seventythree silver med:lls, seventeen illuminated certificates, and four further endorsements on Certificates, to who hlve rendered efficient first aid in case of accident, either to fellow workers or m e mbers of the public. Further, the company grants to each man who makes himself efficient by passing his third examination and gaining the medallion, extra passes over any portion of the line for himself, his wife, and children, year after year as long as he remains in the service. On the whole system 18'32 per cent. of the engineer's staff are ambulance men, but in the London district, whi c h extends from London to Bedford, the percentage rises to 56'6.

NOWHERE is ambulance work more necessary, says the Liverpool Daily Post, than on board merchant ships, far from medical aid; so that the new regulations of the Board of Trade recognising skill in giving first aid to the injured by captains, officers, and sailors is most commendable. They have asked the Missions to Seamen to assist them by providing medical classes for instruction in ambulance, and the committee of that society are urging anew their chaplains and readers in charge of ports to make every effort to revive this organisation where it previously existed, and to start it where it has not hitherto been done. About 1,800 merchant officers and sailors had already received St. John Ambulance certificates by means of the Mission to Seamen classes for instruction, before the Board of Trade had issued the present regulations, as to the official recognition of first aid to the injured. But of late years it is only in the port of London, the port of Sunderland, and especially in the Mersey, that the society has maintained this most humane and beneficial instruction, regular medical examinations, for the St. John Ambulance certificate, of which eighty-two were awarded last year.

* * *

WHAT is ambulance? says the Leitlz Obs erve r, and then goes on to refer to certain correspondence which has appeared in the public press upon this "first aid to seamen" question. One seaman writes to say that the English sailor has only to attend four amb'Jlance lectures, whilst the Scottish sailor must be present at twelve, before the

AI D.- January, I908.

one or the other may present himself for examination. A second writer says that the Scottish sailor need attend only eight lectures. Both courses seem inadequate, says the Leitlz Observ er, if any good and useful knowledge is to be assimilated. I want to let it be known that in Leith we better the instruction; in other words, we go one, and more than one, better than either th e St. John or the St. Andrew's Ambulance Association. "Ambulance" is a fair-sounding term, but a sailor -officer ought to know a little more than a policeman at the street corner, whose duty, valuable as it is, for the most part consists in knowing how to staunch a wound, to apply a splint, and save the unh a ppy victim of an accident from the mistaken kindness of the man in the street, who would" set him on his legs" even if they were fractured. The sailor has practically no such contingencies to face. He cannot 'phone for a doctor, and the hospital may be six weeks' distance. He must diagnose fever, and many other maladies and know how to treat them in the absence of a doctor. He must know something more than a mere smattering about the Pharmacopreia, and in the case ofa fractured limb he ought to be able to do very much more than can ever by any possibility be required of a policeman. What, then, is the use of four attendances upon "ambulance" to a responsible sailor-officer? It is the little knowledg e that is the dang e rous thing. At Leith Nautical College sailor-officers undergo a course of instruction in ship surgery and medicine, in addition to which they have periodical "clinics" in the wards of Leith Hospital-all under a fkilful physician and "born" lecturer. Many seafaring readers of the Observer may think this little record to the credit of the old port of Leith worthy of mention, while" other places" are frett ing over their few hours at "ambulance," and for this reason I have set it down.

* * *

WHAT will those who oppose the innovation of any ambulance instruction say to this opinion from our friends in Leith, and yet the writer is not far wrong in his contention, especially in the case of ships which carry no surgeon.

* * *

IT is rumoured, says the Bradford Telegraph, that the Council of the St. Andrews Ambulance Association has been approached by the Order of St. John of Jerusalem in England with a view to the respective Councils combining for am bulance work. There are branches of each in both England and Scotland, as well as abroad. There is considerable opposition on the part of the St. Andrews body to the entrance of the English Order into Scotland. There would appear to be room for both these excellent institutions, or otherwise branches would not have been formed in the respective countries. For instance, in Bradford there was a large number of Scotchmen, especially doctors, who might be excused for having more than a sentimental partiality for the Red Cross Brigade. We are not in possession of any details of the suggested rearrangement,

January, 19 08

-FIRST

but doubtless before anything definite is decided the branches concerned will be fully consulted. So far competition has done good rather than harm.

* * *

OUR friend on the Bradford Telegraph concludes his mysterious little item as though rep orting the trading results of two enterprising pork butchers or cheesemongers. To our way of thinking competition of this character, introduced as it was into Bradford, is much more likely to enge nd e r bad blood than to lead to better methods for the treatment of casualties.

* **

ALTHOUGH .New York was the first city in the United States to adopt the army ambulance as a means of conveying the sick in civil practice there has n ever been a wellorganised system of ambulance service. Each hospital has had its own ambulances and the police officials have summoned them in cases of emergency. The police au thorities have created districts for the different hospitals to which the ambulances of that hospltal have been limited, except on occasions of great emergencies The Municipal Hospital Commission recently devoted a session to conferences with from the various hospitals for the purpose of obtaining information in regard to the working of the pres ent system. The conclusion was that there should be a central ambulance station corresponding to the fire headquarte rs to which all ambulance calls should come and through which they should be assigned to the various hospitals. * * *

OUR readers will remem ber that we published a very full accou nt of this system some years since. The writer of our series of articles, himself an old hospital staff officer was not by any means struck with the "happy-go-lucky," " hustling" methods of our cousins "across the pond."

-------.---.-----

Reviews. "LLOYD'S" FAMILY DOCTOR.

By Dr. Andrew Wilson.

The proprietors of lYe..v,s recently published a small manual whIch contams practIcal hmts for the family on the preservation of health and the treatment of illness. We confess that we are not as a rule enamoured by books of this description, which, at times in the hands of a reckless layman are calculated to do harll?, we do not think that this book is open to such an Dr. Andrew Wilson, in his introduction, very clearly adVIses the layman what are the proper steps to take in the case of senous Illness. I n the course of a well thought out preface he says" This volume is intended to serve as a plain and practical guide to the detection of disease. Care has been taken, in the course of its pages, to enforce in all cases the ne cessity .for calling in medical advice at an early stage of any dlness whIch threatens to be of a grave T.he work, in. alms at effecting in public education Cl:nd 111 the and treatment of disease the same admIrable teach1l1g which first aId or ambulance work presents in the case of accidents and

AI D.- 105

emergencies. I f the information how to treat a broken bone or a bleeding artery at first band, ought to form part and parcel of un iv ersally acquired knowledge, as everyone must admit it should, none the less is that teaching to be valued which enables us to distinguish, say pleurisy, from a trivial chest pain, warns us of Cl: probable attack of typr.oid fever, or whIch shows us the prmclples on which indigestion may be treated by attention being paid to the diet of the sufferer." The book should also prove of value to the intending Colonist who may be going to parts wh ic h are far distant from any medical man. The publi.shed price is sixpen ce and it may be obt8.ined of the proprietors of Ltoyds' Weekly News, 12, Salisbury-square, Fleet-street, E.C.

A MANUAL FOR HOSPITAL URSES

By Edward J. Domville, L.R.C.P.LoND., M.R.C.S.ENG.

We have received from the publishers a copy of this little work, and we congratulate the author on having com piled one of the best manuals on this all important subject, that it has been our privilege to read. Dr. Domville has not only had large hospital experience, but he has for many years past been a le cturer and examiner for the S.J.A.A., and he has, therefore, a most 1l1timate knowledge of the subject about which he has written so clearly and minutely Primarily, of course, the book is intended for the nursing profession, the members of which will find it a most valuable book of reference, to which they at any time may turn for guidance. The manual is well arranged in sections, and in the appendix there is much useful information about the preparation of remedies, sick cookery and also a glossary Although, as we have before said, the book is more for the professional nurse, it will be found very useful to the members of the ursing Division of the S.J.A.B., especially those who undertake sick nursing amongst the poor. 1t should also prove a useful text-book for the S.J.A.B. Bearer Companies, and the members of the Royal Navy Auxilliary Sick Berth Reserve. I t is published by Messrs. J. A. Churchill, 7, Great Marlborough-street, London, and the price is one shilling and sixpence only.

LINCOLN.-An interesting gathering took place at Hatton's Restaurant on Friday evening, Jan. 3rd, the occasion being the presentation of a memento to Sergt. Lupton, hon. stc. "A" Division, on his leaving the city for ergt. Lupton, who has been an ardent secretary for six years, was presented with a handsome copper kettle, on a Nouveau art brass stand, a suitable inscription being engraved on the kettle. The was made by Chief Surgeon Lam bert, and euloglstlc short speeches were made by Supts. Cooper and Dickinson. There was an excellent attendance of "A" Division men.

E.-\STBOURNE.-A successful concert in connection with this division was held at St. Anne's Parish Room, on December 30th, 1907, when Supt. E. Huntley was presented with a gold medallion as a mark of respect and apprer:iation of his services .

Mr. Huntley has been connected with the division since its formation in 1900. He was appointed secretary in 19 0 3, the duties of which office he till he was promoted to the rank of supenntendent 10 19 0 7.

The chair was occupied by Mr. T. W. Dean, StatIOn Supt.; supported by Mr. R. J. Austin, Goods Agent ; Mr. Pollott, Loco. Supt. ; Hon. Surg. H. Habgood, M.D., and others.

WHEN OORRERPONDING WITH ADVERTISERS PLEASE MENTION "FIRS rAID."

The Boys of the Life Brigade.

WE are pleased to present to our readers a few details of a valuable organisation, the objects of which are somewhat akin to those of the St. John Am bulance Brigade. Indeed, we think that the Boys' Life Brigade might very well be considered as a cadet corps, the training in which should

AID.- January, 1908.

nature is capable of attaining, and there is nO doubt that these precepts once taken to heart must tend, not only to makct the youth more self.reliant in time of difficulty or danger, but will also make it an instinctive thought in their lives when arrived at the age of manhood.

From a perusal of the last report and the treasurer's returns, we gather that the strength of the brigade is now, roughly speaking, about 10,000 boys and officers. It is divided into companies, each under the command of a captain, and every company must be connected with a religious community. In the larger towns, where two or three companies exist, they may, if desired, be formed into a battalion, and any district where there are two or more such battalions they may, provided they have a membership of not less than 500, be formed into a division.

A CANVAS CITY, BOGNOR CAMP,

qualify the members in later years for enrolment in both the Ambulance and Fire Brigade Services.

The most critical time in a boy's career is perhaps that between the ages of twelve and seventeen, during which period the character of the man may be said to be in course of development; it is during this period that he is most susceptible to the influence of good or evil associations. It is then, therefore, that we should seek to engage his interest, and endeavour by a prudent and well regulated course of discipline to direct his attention to such pursuits as will tend to mal{e him a better citizen.

It is to attain this end that the efforts of the Boys' Life Brigade are directed, partly by discipline and drill, which is not associated with the use of military arms, accompanied by instruction in the principles of saving life from fire and from drowning, and the methods of rendering first aid in accident or sudden illness.

While it is intended that the physical training given in the various drills should conduce to develop the corporeal faculties of the boys; the whole principle of the tone and teaching of the brigade is life saving, and it is at all times impressed on 'its members that the saving of human life is one of the highest ideals to which human

January, 1908 -FIRST

The age of enrolment is from twelve to seventeen years, although under certain conditions younger boys can be admitted as cadets to a special section, and boys attaining the rank of staff-sergeant may be retained after the age of seventeen for special services.

In addition to marching and squad drill the brigade has taken up the following :-( I) Physical exercise, (2) ambulance work and stretcher drill, (3) fire drill-to save life from fire, (4) swimming, and life-saving drill from drowning. It will thus be seen that the subjects taught are such as will appeal to a boy, and the knowledge thus gained cannot fail to be useful in after life. The uniform of the lads consists of cap, belt and havresac, and in order to encourage good conduct and proficiency)n the various subjects taught,

the boys, on promotion, receive an armlet with corporal's or sergeant's stripes, and rank as non -co mmissioned officers. It is not surprising that a movement with such aims and objects has made rapid progress; its drills and practises form a pleasant recreation during the week-days, while some companies possess their own reading and recreation rooms and hold evening classes, which are recognised by the Board of Education. Encouragement is also given in the formation of cricket and football clubs; while the summer camp plays an important role in the yearly work of a company. Not only is a week under canvas a healthful and invigorating holiday, but the result of a week's training in camp will do more to promote the efficiency of a company than all the rest of the year's drill has done, added to which the comradeship thus set up, and fostered between officers and lads, may do much to promote the spiritual welfare of the members of the company. It is well-known that where there are a large number of boys living together, the fear of being ridiculed or laughed at is always a strong motive as to which line of action they should pursue, if, therefore, the officer in command can only impress upon them the desirability of applauding that line of conduct which is manly and upright, and of ridiculing that which is cowardly or vicious, he will have done much to attain the objects we have in view.

In concluding this brief article we would point out, that the objects of the Boys' Life Brigade should commend it to the sympathetic consideration of every member of the St. John Ambulance Brigade. As we have before mentioned, these youths are being thus early trained in all those grand principles which the melD bers of the St. John Am bulance Brigade regard as the groundwork of their organisation. Might we suggest, th e refore, that where the two organisations exist in the same town every assistance should be given by the senior service to the lads and their officers. Much can be done in helping them in their drill and bandage practice, and we feel sure that in this way the ranks of the St. John Ambulance Brigade will in the future receive many recruits who, as a result of their early training, will loyally carry out the motto of the grand old Order of St. John.

The estimated cost of the foundation of a company of 36 boys is exceedingly small, being under a five pound note. Those desirous of learning more about this good work and its sister branch, "The Gnls' Life Brigade," should write to the Brigade Seqetary, Mr. H. E. Norton, 56, Old Bailey, London, E.e, who will, we are sure, gladly furni<:h all partIculars and give any assistance that Jays within his power.

AID.Hremorrhage.

By HEATON C. HOWARD, M.R.C.S., L.R.c.P., Lond.

THE subject of hc:emorrhage and its treatment is so important to ambulance pupils that it occurred to me that a little further explanation both of the theory and its practical application would not be unappreciated by the readers of FIRST AlD. Of course it is known what the circulatory system is, there is a motive power-the heart, and a series of tubes, arteries, capilliaries, and veins through which a fluid, the blood, is forced. Bleeding may take place from each kind of vessel, hence we get the different varieties, arterial, venous, and capillary ha::morrhage. Although in theory we have these three kinds of bleeding, yet, in practice, they generally all occur together (with the except ion of bleeding from a burst varicose vein, which is purely venous), and the bleeding acquires its distinctive name from the variety that predominates.

In order that the subject may be thorou ghly grasped, I must first give you a short descri ption of the structure of the blood vessels, secondly of the methods that nature uses to restrain hcemorrhage, and lastly of the methods that we use to hel p Nature in h er efforts.

Firstly, a brief description of the minute anatomy of these vessels. The wall of an artery is composed of three

The New South Wales Government has granted a subsidy of £500 per annum to the local branch of the Royal Life-Saving Society for the purpose of promoting the teaching of swimming and live-saving.

An advertisement in this Journal is tile cheapest traveller you can have.

VISITORS DAY, BOGNOR CAMP, 19 0 7.

FIRE DRILL BY 1st LEYTONSTONE C0rllPANY.

layers or coats, an outer, a middle, and an internal coat. The outer coat is the toughest part of the vessel, and is made up of areolar tissue arranged as a fibrous mass, amongst which are scattered a number of fibres of elastic tissue. On the inner side 0f this coat these elastic fibres are so thickly placed as almost to form a coat of themselves. The 1JZzddle coat is composed of muscular fibres arranged transversely, also with a quantity of elastic tissue mingled with it. The inner coat is composed of elastic tissue and the membrane which forms the inner lining of the vessel.

Not a few words as to the objects that these different coats serve. The strong outer coat strengthens the artery, and protects it from excessive distension by the force of the heart's action. The elastic tissue which is so abundant, guards the arteries from the suddenly exerted pressure caused by the contraction of the ventricles. At each contraction the arteries receive more blood than can be discharged through the capillaries, so that the walls dilate, the elastic tissue stretches) and the calibre of the vessel is increased. At the end of the contraction, the elastic tissue contracts, and the Vessels squeeze their contents along into the capillaries, the backward movement being prevented by the closure of the valves guarding the ventricular opening. There is no loss of ventricular force, the strength that is required to dilate the elastic tissue is given back on the recoil of the artery, and is used to force the blood onwards, this is how we get the continuous stream in the mailer arteries and capillaries. The elastic tissue (acted upon by the nervous system) also is able to increase or diminish the size of vessels to correspond with any temporary increase or diminution of the total quantity of blood in the body.

The muscular coat regulates the quantity of blood receIved by part, adjusting it according to the requirefor. stomach during digestion, active braIn dunng sleeping and waking. It also adapts the calIbre of the vessels to the quantity of blood which contain, providing for a uniformity of pressure and glVlng to.ne to the vessel. It also-in conjunction with the elastic coal, when the artery is cut--first limits and then arrests the escape of blood.

The structure of the veins is similar to that of the arteries, the chief difference being that the muscular coat is much thinner.

Placed at varying distances in the veins are valves the object of which is to prevent the backward flow of' the blood. The valves are semi-lunar, that IS they have two flaps, the free edge being turned towards the heart, as the blood flows along the valves lie close against the side of the vessel, but if put into action they close and stop the current of the blood. They are most numerous in the leg.

It may be .thought that the force of gravitation would be an tu th.e blood returning in the limbs through the vems, but It must be remembered tnat the exercised by the column of blood in the arteries IS suffiCIent to support a column of blood in the veins of the same height-these two columns mutually balance each other. The greatest pressure of course is at the lowest part, hence the liability to distension of the veins of the leg foot. The force that sends the blood down the arteries expended in d:i it through the ca pillaries where there IS fnctlOn, and where most of it is lost, the remamder up in getting back to the heart. The bloo? In the jugular vein is only about I-12th of that m the carotId artery.

Muscular pressure also helps the venous circulation, the veins become squeezed by the muscular contraction,

AID. - January, 1908.

and the blood must be forced onwards, as it cannot go back on account of the closure of the valves.

Velocity of the circulation. By experiments that have been performed it is estimated that the period of one minute will cover the time in which the blood can complete the entire circuit in man. All the blood can pass through the heart in from 25 to 50 seconds.

ARREST OF HA':MORRHAGE.

Having thus considered the minute anatomy of the blood-vessels, we will now see what steps Nature takes to stop the flow of blood through the divided artery. The means are (first) temporary, and (second) permanent.

iVatun's Arrest of Hcemorrlzage.

Temporary.

2 3

Coagulation of Diminution I Certain and altelation of force of changes in in constitution heart's and around of blood. action. artery

I Retraction artery.

'Z 3 of I Contraction of I Formation of cut ends. cloL on outside and on inside of artery Permanent.

I 2 Adhesion on I Continued vessel and contraction of artery. parts.

1. The coagulation or clotting of the blood in and around the artery is a most important factor in the arrest of h::emorrhage. Fortunately for us our blood-vessels ate not like gas-pipes and water-pipes, in which, whenever there is a leak or a break, steps must be taken to remedy the defect, or the contents keep on escaping until the supply is exhausted. Whereas, in us, whenever a small artery is divided, it will stop bleeding of itself if let alone, owing chiefly to this property of coagulation. If a vessel of the size of the radial be divided, generally speaking, the flood of blood will stop in a short time without any interference. The blood coagulates in and around the artery, gradually closing up the aperture. The alteration of the constitution of the blood consists in its increasing coagulability as it flows, its tendency being to form a clot as soon as it escapes from the vessel, unless the clot gets away by the force exerted by the left ventricle but this is curtailed, and the coagulation assisted by the second factor.

2. Diminution in force of the heart's action. This exerts a material influence, for in the case of a large artery like the brachial being cut, as the patient becomes faint and collapsed from the loss of blood, the he'irt's impulse gradually weakens and the jet of blood falls lower and lower until when faintness actually occurs the force of .blood current is :so weak that it almost stops, and time IS gl yen for the formation of and deposit of a coagulum in and around the vessel. Therefore you should never be in great a hurry to recover a patient in this condition, and walt for some time before you give stimulants which, as you know, act by increasing the heart's action.

3· The changes that take place in and around the vessel are the retraction of the vessel within its sheath the contraction of the cut ends, and the formation a coagulum in its interior and around its exterior. As soon as an artery is cut across, it immediately retracts within its

January, 1908.

-FIRST

sheath and th·e blood flowing over the roughened surface of the sheath tends to coagulate, and the clot thus formed is outside the artery and extends beyond it and is called the externfll coagztlum. It thus almost looks like a cot:tinuation of the artery, having in its centre a channel through which the blood is flowing, but which slowly closes. This clot acts mechanically by blocking up the end of the artery, also by compressing the artery within its sheath.

In add ition to this we find that the artery contracts, that is, its calibre gradually gets smaller until it gets completely closed and allowing a small elongated clot to form inside the vessel which is called the internal coagulum. This is pointed, its base being attached to the margin of the cut end with its apex up the vessel. It extends as far as the next branch, it acts as a damper, breaking the force of the blood against the divided end. This internal coagulum is of great importance in the permanent closure of the vessel; the other vital part of it is the portion' that actually occupies the orifice of the vessel, and is called thE. central C/ot, for until this is formed the bleeding is not arrested.

The external clot is like a pad over thE. end of the vessel, the internal clot acts as a buffer to protect the central clot from the full force of the circulation.

(To be continu ed).

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution.

THE weather throughout the year 1907, as everybody knows, was thoroughly unsettled. Strong winds, storms and gales, accompanied frequently .by very heavy rains, constantly occurring the year in and the year out. As a result, the lifeboats of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution were called out for service unusally often and were fortunately the happy means of rescuing hundreds of men, women, and children from a watery grave around the coasts of the United Kingdom.

The heaviest gales of the year 1907 occurred on February I9th and 21st and December 13th and 14th, on the first occasion 18 lives were saved, 18 lifeboats being launched, whilst during the December gale 23 lifeboats were launched, resulting in 13 lives and three vessels being saved.

Between January 1st and December 31St, inclusive, the Institution's lifeboats were launched on service 36 9 times in addition to which crews were assembled in for service on 38 occasions, when their help was not ultimately required.

The total number of lives saved in 1907 by the lifeboats was 932, and by the shore-boats and other means, for which the Institution granted rewards, 224, making a grand total for the year of I, 156 lives s3.ved. As many as 43 vessels and boats were also saved from total or partial loss.

The number of lives for which the Lifeboat Institution has granted rewards since it was established on March 4th, 182 4- 8 3 years ago-has now reached 47,345. The cost of maintaining the Institution's large fleet of 280 lifeboats in thorough efficiency is very great, and increases but the financial support received from the public in annual subscriptions and donations is not nearly sufficient for the purpose.

As our readers know, last year we made an earnest appeal for increased .fin.ancial support for this most valuable work with most gratlfymg results. May we once more ask

AI D.-

you to do something for the noble fellows round our coast who brave the elements at this inclement season of the year" For those in Peril on the Sea ?" .--.

Lantern Lecture at Blackheath.

MR. WALTER M. HITCHCOCK, Hon. Captain Geelong Fire Brigade and Vice-President L.P.F.B.A., recently gave a lecture at the Blackheath Y.M.e.A.

The lecturer, who appeared in full uniform, very suitably treated his subject under distinct divisions, each evidently carefully prepared, ana illustrated by a numerous series of excellent slides, all being either of fire appliances, ancient and modern, fire scenes, including several thrilling conflagrations and the weekly drills at headquarters, the L.e.e. annual displays, and portraits of eminent firemen, including the late Capt. Braidwood, Capt. de Conrcy Hamilton, Chief Officer S. J. Gamble, and Capt. W. H. Wilcox, of Australia. The Royal interview in I904 with the Geelong Brigade's British Representative (then celebrating their Jubilee), by H. M. Queen Alexander, at Buckingham Palace, and by H.R.H. The Prince of Wales, at Marlborough House, were of course referred to in the lecturer's introduction. The lecture appropriately introduced a new verse for the National Anthem ;-

I n perfect peace serene

Keep Thou our gracious Queen, With her abide.

May Heaven 's own sunshine fair

Shine on her everywhere:

Hear Thou Thy people's prayerGod Save the Queen.

He then showed very fine portraits of both Her and of the Hon. Charlotte Knollys in connection with that lady's courageous rescue of the Queen, when the fire occurred on December roth, 1903, at Sandringham. The lecturer's Australian Fire Brigade experiences and reminiscences naturally formed the greater portion of the first section of the evening's entertainment.

The second part of the lecture dealt very fully with the development of the London Fire Service, and was illustrated by a beautiful series of slides, showing the marvellous progress made from A. D. r 380 to the present date, including even Gamage's fire of a few days ago, and. was appreciated. This section was suitably con:menced WIth a fine portrait of His Majesty the King, whIch was loudly cheered. It is well known that King Edward for many years has taken a deep and appreciative interest in the good work of firemen, and when Prince of ",Vales, often, in company with the Duke of Sutherland, attended some of our large City fires. .'

Referrina to the value of pnvate fire bngades, Capt. Hitchcock the excellent services promptly rendered by Messrs. Stapley and Smith's City Brigade, R. H. and S. Rogers' Brigade of Bermondsey, and stdl more recentiy by the Gresham Brigade in the Wood-street fire, and also by the Messrs. Gamage Brigade, have been greatly appreciated, and shows .the which can be rendered to the profeSSIOnal bngades, and wIll doubtless increase the popularity of this, the latest development of the fire service of London.

The lecturer, in closing his remarks, expressed hIS. full sympathy with all efforts for the saving of human lIves, whether on land or sea, adding, if such efforts be so deserving of our sympathy and how. greater is the call to, and privilege of Chnstlan serVIce, 10 seeking the salvation of precious souls.

No. I District (Metropolitan Corps.)

ST. JOHN'S GATE NURSIN G DIVISION.- The annual distribution of clothing to the poor of St. John's Parish, Clerkenwell was held on December 9th, at St. John's Gate,. by Sisters of the St. John's Gate NurSing DIVISion. The officers and members return their cordial thanks to all those who kindly assisted in gifts and service for this object.

No. 2 District.

CA:\1BORNE.- The annual meeting of this Division held at the hea.dquarters, Camborne on January 8th.

Capt. W. James preSided, and there were abo present Hon. Surgeon W. Blackwood; S. J. Geach, treasurer; E. Chaffe, secretary; and other officers and men of the Division.

The supterintendent in his report stated that the second· year's work had been even more successful than the first The membership was 30, an increase of five on the prevIOus year. Up to Sept. 30th, 1907 32 cases had ?een in addition to IS removals.' The annual Insp ectIO n took place on Sept. 25th, when the inspecting officer c0t?mented on the increased smartness of the men Bya speCIal effort fun?s had been raised to'provide uniforms for 17 members, and It was hoped in the present year to complete the same for the whole Division. He thanked the officers for their co-operation.

Mr. S. J. Geach, the hone treasurer presented the report, showed the' total receipts /,80 13s. 8d., expenditure £6 [ ad. 5d., leaving a balance In hand of £19 13s. 3d.

Blackwood reported that in the coming year It was Intended to form a nursing division for ladies The year w?uld be an i one. for Cornwall, seeing that accordmg to Mr. Haldane s Terntorial Army Scheme many men be wanted for Cornwall to form a corps for field hospital work.

Capt. C. F. Thomas, manager of South Crofty, was elected a member of the General Committee.

FOLKEST?NE.-The funeral of the late Rev. Edward Husband, which took place on January 8th, provided a remarkable demonstratIOn of respect. A choral service was held at the church where Mr. Husband had ministered for so many years. The Mayor (Alderman Frederic Hall) and members of the Corporation were present besides th D Company of" the Volunteers, of which the gentleman was .chaplam. A detachment of the St. John Bngade, the lads of the Folkestone Working B?y s Club, a detachment of the telegraph messengers the Vicar of Folkestone, and nearly all the clergy of the 'town were

Mr. Husba?d will be remembered by our Kentish readers for the kmdly welcome always accorded to ambulance men when they attended his church.

No. 4 District.

WHALEY BRIDGE.-On January J [th the annual social in connection with this division was held in the Drill Hall and attended. Dr. J. Nall, Senior Surgeon of the DIVISion, occupied the chair, and was supported by Drs. Allan and Spittal.

In opening the meeting, the Chairman referred to the death of Sergt. Peter B. Hill, a late member of the division, and suggested that a letter of condolence be sent to the and on the motion of Supt. Bagshaw, seconded by First Officer Widdop, it was resolved that such be sent all signifying their approval by rising in silence.

The Volunteer Band, under the leadership of Band Sergeant Haughty, played for danCIng during the evening and the M.C.'s were Messrs. Miller, Bates and Moore. Songs were also contributed.

The most important part of the evening's programme the presentation or two silver cups and medals, obtamed through the efforts of First Officer Widdop.

The first cup and 4 medals for the best team in sick nursing handed to the winners by Mrs. Hall, of HorWIch House. Tbe successful team were Mrs. Mrs. Ward, Miss Bagshaw and Miss Rawlinson. ThiS cup had been presented to the division by Mrs. Cotton-] odrell, and the four medals by Mrs. Toler, Mrs. Mothersill, Mrs. Firth and T. C. Toler, Esq., J.P., c.c.

The second cup and 5 medals were handed to the wmners by Col. Hall, J.P. (in the absence of H. S. Cox, Esq.).. The successful team consisted of Joseph Southern (captam), G. P. Bagshaw, Joseph Ashmore, J. Winterbotto?1. P. Southern. The cup had been present ed to the diVISion by the Cbilworth Gunpowder Company, and the 5 medals by H. S. Cox, K:;q. (2), A. H. Burgess, Esq., Supt. Bagshaw and First Officer Widdop for th e most efficient squad in ambulance work.

At the close of the presentations Supt. Bagshaw proposed a vote. of thanks to Col. and Mrs. Hall for the help rendered, thiS was seconded by First Officer Widdop and carried unanimously.

Col. Hall suitably replied 0n hehalf of Mrs. Hall and himself.

During the evening refreshments were handed round and a display of Indian club exe rcises was given by P. Southern, H. Ashmore and G. P. Bagshaw.

No. 5 District.

WELBECK.- The annual competItIOn, promoted by hIS qrace. Duke of Portland, amongst the members of thiS DIVISIon, was held in the underground rooms at Welbeck Abbey.. The men were in charge of Supt. Hamlyn and FIrSt and Second Officers Kitchen and .Maltby. They were put through competition in bandagIng, carrymg the injurE'd, and stretcher work.

Dr. Thompson, of Retford was the judge, and Hon. Surgeon Crawford, the medical instructor, was also present. The Duke of Portland and the Rev. G. B. and Mrs. Raikes were mterested spectators. At the close of the contest, Dr. Thomps?n congratulated the competitors on the work done, and hIS Grace, on having so efficient a body of ambulance men.

Duke expresseJ himself very pleased to hear so flatterIng a report. He hoped to see the number of increase, and would do all he could to encourage them 111 the work.

January, 19 08 -FIRST

No. 6 District.

HULL.-On 1st January, 1908, an interesting l ecture was given by Supt. W. T. Atkinson, of the Division, on "The Order of St. John," illustrated by 50 beautiful limelight views. Starting with the year 1048, when the merchants from Amalfi visited Jerusalem and founded the hospital, th e lecturer followed the history of the Order through Cyprus, Rhodes, Malta and England, until he reached the present day. Many incidents of interest, both national and local, were mentioned and listened to with great attention by a fa irly large audience.

The views were thrown on the screen by a large dissolving lantern, kindly lent and manipulated by Mr. F Baker.

We understand that Supt. Atkinson will be pleased to give his lecture to any corps or division provided the necessary arrangements can be made, as he considers that the hisLory of the Order is one that should be known to, 'and a pride taken in it by, every ambulance man and woman.

Al D.- 111

the money at once on the production Death Certificate of a deceased member, this also was carried unaniulOusly. Annual Report. - The Hon. District Secretary not be.mg present and report being before the meeting, thiS was left over until the next meeting, which is to be called as soon as possible.

Finance.-The Hon. District Treasurer presented his District and Vouchers, showing a balance in hand of £18 16s. 3d.

The Challenge Shield's Accounts were also approved and adopted, both accounts are subject to Auditors' Reports.

Auditors.-A. T. Dale, Esq., Vice-President, and Capt. Horne were elected auditors.

President.-The Most Hon. the Marquis of Bristol was elected President.

District Vice-Presidents - A. T. Dale, Esq., J. Reynolds, Esq., H. T. Hallows, Esq., T. R. Pelly, Esq., and Capt. Tracy were elected Vice·Presidents

Hon. District Surgeon.-A. Greene, Esq., M.A., M.D. Chairman.-Capt. Miller.

Vice-Chairman.-Capt. Pizey.

Hon. District Secretary and Treasurer.-Captain Woollard.

Delegates to Central Council.-Capt. Summers (Southgate), Capt. Horn (" Clamico "), Capt. Jeffrey (Loughton), Capt. Deards (Harlow), Engineer J. Wood (Southend-onSea), and District Officers.

National Fire Brigades Union.

At the moment of going to press we learn that the special Committee appointed to make arrangements for the annual competitions and camp met the Scarborough Municipal Authorities on Saturday, the 18th inst., when final arrangements were made for the camp to be held in that town during this year.

EASTERN DI STR ICT.-A meeting of this District was held on Saturday, January 4th, last at the Central Fire Station, II ford, twenty-five members being present. Capt. Miller presided and the Hon. Treasurer (Captain Woollard) acted as Hon. Secretary, pro t em. The Hon. District Secretary (Capt. Sharpen) not being in attendance with minute book, raised considerable discussion. Capt. Woollard was instructed to write for same, also for other books, &r.., the property of the District. Ambulance Report.-Letter from Dr. Greene, Hon. Surgeon, was read.

The Death Levy Report was read and adopted, and on the proposition of Capt. Simmons, seconded by Capt. Tollyfield, it was proposed that a hearty vote of thanks be accorded to Capt. Woollard for the able manner in which he carries on the Death Levy Fund. This was carried unanimously and ordered to be entered on the minutes. During the year th ere have been seven deaths in the District, £17 I 6s. being subscribed fm the benefit of deceased members' survivors, making a total of £5 2 4 f4S. since the commencement of the Fund in 1898. It was proposed by Capt. Tollyfield (Woodford), seconded by Capt. Cowles (Felixstowe), that a circular be sent to each Brigade asking their opinion as to the advisability of each member of the Death Levy Fund paying the shilling in advance to the Hon. Treasurer, to enable him to advance

Spring Competitions.-It was decided to hold a competition at Leigh ·on-Sea or Loughton on the Saturday in Easter \veek. Vice-President H. Hallows, Capt. Horn, Capt. Jeffery, Capt. Johnson, and Executive Officers to form a committee to view the proposed grounds and report on same.

The hon. treas urer to draw up agreements as to safe custody of district shields and cups as follows: Steamer Shield, £25; Manual, £20; Escape, £20; Hose Cart, £10.

Under General Business there was nothing of interest to report.

It was proposed, seconded, and carried unanimously that a hearty vote of thanks be accorded to the Ilford District Council for the use of their fine fire station for the purposes of this meeting, also to Supt. Woollard for making the

A vote of thanks to Capt. Miller for presiding closed the meeting.

The report of the Italian Federation of the Milan Congress, 1906, is now ready and will be sent gratis with the exception of postal charges, to all EnglIsh members of the congress upon their making application to Mr. C. Kusel, 3 6, Newton-road, Westbourne-grove, London.

NAl\IUR.-The fetes and competitions have been organised to take place in this town on the occasion of the 19 th Congress of the Federation Royale des SapeursPompier de Belgique during the 6th and 8th of June. We understand that the municipal authorities have arranged an excellent programme, which include an exhi.b ition o.f fire appliances, banquets, &c. 1OternatlOnai prizes are, manual drill 1St pnze, 25 0 2nd prize, 150 francs 3rd pIlze, 75 francs.. Steamer drill competition, ISt prize, 500 fr.ancs; 2?d prI ze , 2 50 It is hoped that Engllsh Bngades wIll take part 10 thiS Congress. Further particulars can be obtained from Mr. C. Kusel, 36, Newton-road, West bourne-Grove, London.

AI D. - January, 1908.

AI D.- J a nuary, 1908.

AMB UL ANCE BOOKS AT GREAT REDUCTIONS!

Policy No. 600,093.

"FIRST AlD."

N

EW BOOKS at 25 per cent. Discount. All kinds of Medical and other Books supplied. Sent on approva l. Catalogues free. Books purcbased. - W & G. FOYLE, 135, Cbaring Cross-road, London, W.e.

Seventh Edition, Revised and Enlarged. vVlth Additional Illustrati ons Post 8vo, 25 net.

FIRST AID TO THE INJURED.

Si x A mbulanc e Lecture s .

By Dr F R IED RICH E SMAR CH. Translated from the Gennan by H.R.H PRI N CE SS CHRISTIA N

The Schoolmaster says: - "Anyone anxious to gain lmowledge in lhe art of relieving pain, or possibly of saving liff', cannot do betl er than study these interest ing and instructive pages.

London: SMITII, ELDER & CO., IS, WATERl.OO PLACE, S. W rUST PUBLISIIED. Crown 8vo With Portrait. Published at 5/-, post free 4/-

R EM INI SCENC ES I N T HE LI FE OF Surgeon=Major George A. Hutton,

Late Rifle Brigade (The Prince Consort's Own) Honorary Organizing Commissioner, St. John Ambulance Association. With an Introduction by R. LAWTON ROB E RT S M .D., J.P. Lecturer and Examiner of the St. John Ambulance Association

II. K LE\VIS, 136, GOWER STREET, W e. (And of all Booksellers )

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th e a bove und ert a kin g s Subj ect to the following speci a l cond It IOns , whIch a re of th e esse nce of th e co ntract, viz : -

(a) death result with n one month after the accident, (b) that such holder's usual shal) have been wrilt!!n in ink, in. the space provided underneath before. the acpd.ent, (c) that. noti ce of the he given to the CorporatIOn at Its Pnnclpal Office III London wlthlll fourteen days after its occurrence, (d) medical certificates and other information he furnished by person claIming. upon request for the same by the Corporation, and (e) that thIs applIes only to persons over twelve and under seven ty years of age, IS hmlted to one C0l!pon-Insurance-Ticket for each holder, and holds good for the current month of Issue only

T his entitles the holder to the benefit of, and is subject to! the condItIons of the "Ocean Accident and Guarantee Company LIl1 u te d, Act, 1890," Risks Nos. 2 and 3, when they are not pallble with the special conditions above stated_

Tltepossession o/tltis Coupon-Ins11.1-ance-Ticket isad1Jlitted to be the payment 0/ pr:eJJllUm under Sec. 330/ the A ct. A Print 0./ tlle A ct can be seen at tlu P17llcipal OtJice o/the Corporation.

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devised by SIR FREDE RI CK T REVES, Bar t. , G. C. V.O ., C.B. , to meet a long-felt want of a system of splinting which, in a small com pass, will enable the medical man Lo produce in a very short time a rigid and aseptic splint for any part of the body, or with the same material a number of splints for anyone part. It will be of especial interest to medical men residing a considerable distance from surgical appliance makers, who may be called upon to provide a splint of a special size at short notice, or to medical men attending large works or mines The splinting consists of two parts only, viz., stapled rods which form the side pieces, and narrow strips for joining same together.

For Catalogue and Prices apply EVANS & WORMULL, 31, STAMFORD STREET , LONDON , S.E.

FIRST AID.

The Independ en t J ournal for th e Am bulance and Fire Services .

Conduc

No. 164.-VOL XIV. [NEW SERIF.S.] FEBRUARY, 1908.

To

As it is the wish and desire of the Proprietors to make this J ourna l as in structive and en tertaining as possible, co rr espondents in a ll parts of the country are ask ed to gi\'e it all the help they can.

Superintendents of Corps an d Officers of Divisions of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, Officers of the lZ oyal Army Medical ('orps (Volunteers), the Volunteer Ambulance School of In struct ion, and Cbief Officers of Fire Brigades will, it is hoped, do their best to make it known amongst the members of their respecti\ e organisations, and will also send [or publication their officia l news and notices. Suggest tions a re invited for Prize Competitions and other malters which will adva nce he interest of the Journal.

\Ve particularly desire lO ask ou r correspondents to be brief and to the point in any communications they may send us for publication.

Correspondents sending in photos are urgently r eguested to state on the back of the same the name of the individual o r the Corps or Brigade, and g iv e a so the name and address of the sende r. lYe heg to advise ou r readcrs thaL we do not pay for photographs or copy sent, unless previously agreed upon in writing. " First Aid" is p u blis h ed on the 20th of the month.

EDITORIAL.

WE hear at times a great deal about T h e "grandmotherly" legislation, and John Pub li c Hea lth Bull is sometimes prone to growl at the Acts Rctions of Our legistators who have a A m e ndm ent tendency to curtail the liberty of the Act, 1907. subject, but the "Mother of Parliaments" does sometimes place upon the Statute Book some very useful legislation. In this sense The Public Health Acts Amendment Act, which came into operation on the first day of January this year, is a most useful piece of legIslation

turned his hose in the direction of the interfering" jack-inoffice," that indiVIdual would have received no more than his just deserts. Such condur:t is not only irritating and worrying to those in authority, at a time when they require to be calm and collected, hut it has also a tendency to promote lack or discipline amongst the rank and file who, seeing the actions of their superior called into question, may entertain a doubt as to whether they themselves would be justified in disregarding his commands. Th e position is now made clear. Another useful Bill which we sincerely hope will shortly be placed on the Statute Book is "The Children's Bill." The main purpose of this Bill which is a somewhat lengthy one-consolidating as it does twenty -t wo Statutes-relates to the protection of children, met with a sympathetic reception on its introduction into the House.

One of its most important prOVISIOns is that dF.signed to deal with the preventing of smoking by children. In the interest of the youth of this country this IS most desirable ; quite small boys are now to be met with 111 the streets smoking th eir "fags" to the detriment of both their present health and their future stamina and physique. The new Bill proposes to prohibit the sale of cigarettes a nd cigarette papers to children under 16. and futhermore to punish children if they are caught in the act of smoking. It is true that the punishment does not err on the side of severity-a reprimand in the first instance Rnd a small fine on a future occasion-we question whether the application of the birch would not have a more salutary effect.

Another useful clause is that dealing with the practice common amongst a certain class of beggars of utilising children of tender years for the purp03e of exciting pity in order to attract sympathy. This practice is very common amongst the begging fraternity, especially in some parts of London. Children are even hired for the purpose and the cruelties that are practised in connection wi th this nefarious trade can well b e imagined.

orresponding with Advertisers please mention "First Aid."

When

Peinted and Puhli sh ed by Messrs DALE, REYNOLDS & CO Ltd. , 46, Cannon Street L ondon , E. C., to whom a ll comm unicatio n s sh oul d be addressed.

Part VIII. will be especially welcomed by officers in charge of Fire Brigades, as it more fully defines their powers when on duty. Para. 88 gives the necessary authority which will enable an officer to have removed from the fire zone those individuals who, owing to the fact that they may be members of the local Council, and thereby invested with no little importance in their own estimation, presume to issue their own orders and generally make themselves unpleasant, should their well meaning but thoroughly impracticable suggestions not be acted upon. We have known of instances of this kind when had the branch man

A clause which will commend itsf!lf to those who have much experience of our Coroner's Courts, is that which proposes to deal with the overlaying of children in their sleep. Every year sixteen hundred children are overlain either through negligence or drunkenness, and as many are

burnt or scalded to death. These cases are rightly to be treated as offences; but many of them are really \yilful murd ers particularly difficult to prove. Social legislation of this character may well receive the su pport of all parties in the House, and we may confidently hope that it will be so.

The Rowden Ambulance Shield. Challenge

THE second annual competition for this trophy, given to encourage first aid in workshops in the City of Leeds, was held on Saturday, December 21st, in Trinity Church Schools, Boar-lane. .'

The judges were Drs. E. P. Plckersgtll and H. J. Burman, and the following are the tests which they set the competitors ;--

INDIVIDU AL QUESTIONS.

I.-Give signs, symptoms and treatment of a wounded lung caused by a bullet entering chest betw<ien fifth and sixth ribs on the right side. Ribs uninjured.

2.-Contrast state of skin, pupils, breathing a nd pulse in apoplexy, alcoholic collapse, opium poisoning.

3.- Give signs, symptoms and treatment for convulsIOns in children.

4.-Classify the following and say in which would give an emetic :-Deadly nightshade, tartar emetic, salts of sorrel, paregoric, spirits of salts, ch l<,)[od yne and stro.ng ammonia. Mention four means of makll1g a person vomit? Why is tea a good thing to give in poisoning cases?

5.-Enumerate first aid treatment for a child choking from a piece of meat.

INDIVIDUAL TESTS.

I.-Patient receives a direct blow from a motor car, you find the lower end of right scapula fractured and his fac e generally lacerated and em bedded with dirty grit. The patient is insensible, pulse feeble, breathing shallow, with pupils fixed, unequal in size. .,

2.-Patient has attempted sUIcide whilst Slttll1g on the river bank, by opening a large diseased vein in his left leg, and presently, from loss of blood, he faints and rolls into the river, from which you have fished him out in an unconscious state.

3.-This man has been severely crushed over lower part of abdomen; is unable to stand or walk; unable to move legs without great pain and difficulty, and you have signs of the most important organ within the pelvis of being injured.

4.-Whilst sweeping snow off the doorstep this patient has slipped on the ice and broken her right thigh. You are not to use re g ulation splints and bandages in treating the case.

5.-A pan of boiling water has fallen over the whole of this patient's left leg (knee to toes) He is in great agony and seated in this chair. Treat him. If you wish for anyone to help you, call someone out of the crowd and tell him what he has to do for you.

STRETCHER CASE.

This patient is a plum ber, 60 years of age, whilst putting glass in a bedroom window has fallen from his ladder in.an epileptic fit. You notice his left coat sleeve from elbow to wrist is saturated with blood, due to a clean incised wound just above right elbow joint, caused by glass, and also that there is a compound fracture, affecting the bones forming the right knee joint. Treat. Utilise stretcher. Carry him down hill to his home. Ascend the

AID.-

February, 1908.

staircase, which will just admit stretcher, and put him to bed.

Five teams entered for the competition, and at the conclusion of the judging the decision was announced as follows :-ISt, The KirkstaH Forge Company with 3 82 points; 2nd, Wilson and Mathieson with 373; 3rd , Taylor Bros. & Co., Clarence Iron Works, 317 ; 4th, Taylor Bros. & Co., Clarence Iron Works, 3 0 9; 5th John Fowler, Son & Co., Leeds Steam Plough Works, 280. The maximum was 600 points.

In the absence of the president (Dr. A. Ellison), Mr. J. Barrett occupied the chair.

In announcing the winning team, Dr. Pickersgill commented upon the treatment of the various cases, and said that although the competition was somewhat severe, in all cases, the questions and tests had special bearing on cases of accidents likely to call for treatment at any time. He added that the work of the competing teams showed a great improvement on last year.

Mr. George Jackson, General Secretary of the N orthEastern Railway Centre, presented the medals to the winning team, and medals to the runners up.

During the evening songs were sung by Mr. J. Brooks, Mr. H. Brocklesby and Mr. A Storey.

It should be noted that the competition is strictly confined to ambulance men engaged in the workshops and factories of Leeds. The five competing teams were all drawn from the Engineering and Iron Works, not a single entry being received from the Textile Industries.

Coming Events.

Particulm's of forthcoming events will be inserted in tllis colulltn free of charge, if received not late?' than tIle I4 th of eaclt month.

Altrincham.- The Annual Smoking Concert of the Division will be held on February 21st at the Alexandra Hotel, Moss Side, Manchester; commence at 8 p.m.

Briglzouse.- The Annual Fire Brigade and Ambulance Competitions, held in connection with the Brighouse Friendly Societies and Trade Demonstration, will take place on June 13th next. Hon. Secretary, S. Widdop, 19, Thornhill-road, Rastrick.

Lessines.- The committee of the Belgium Federation have decided to hold their 19th Congress here, on the I th, 12th and 13 th of July next, in conjunction with Namur. Valuable prizes will be given. Particulars of Mr. C. Kusel, 36, Newton-road, Westbourne-grove, London.

London.- The Annual General Meeeting of the N. F. B. U. will be held at the Holborn Restaurant on Wednesday, March II th, at 4. 15 p. m., to be followed by the Annual Banquet at 6 p.m. Tickets 5s. each, of A. Hill, Hon. Gen. Sec., N.F.B.U. :-leadquarters, Bedford.

Na7nur.- The 19th Congress of the Belgian Federation will be held here on June 6th, 7th, and next. It is hoped that a good many English Firemen will attend.

Paris.-An international competition has been arranged by the Union de la Seine, to. held here at Whitsl:mtide. English steamer brigades are JOvIted to take part. PartIculars of Mr. C. Kusel, 36, Newton-road, Westbourne-grove, London.

Scarborouglz.- The Camp and Competitions of the N.F.B.U. will be held here from July 10th to 17th.

Southamjdo1Z.-Presentation of Certificates, on March 2nd, to the members of the Centre by Lady Perrott (Lady of Justice of the Order of St. John), at the Royal Victoria Rooms, Portland-terrace, Southampton.

February, 19 08 -FIRST

Our Portrait Gallery.

DISTRICT SUPT. OF STORES CLAUDE BOWES PALMER, J.P., M.l.M.E., KNIGHT OF GRACE OF THE ORDER OF THE HO SPITAL 01' ST. J OHN OF J ERUSALEM IN ENGLAND.

SUPT. PALMER, who is the third surviving son of the late Sir Charles Mark Palmer, Bart., M.P., of Grinkle Park Yorkshire, was born in London in the year 1868.

Commencing his education a t preparatory schools in East Sheen and Harrow, he subsequently proceeded to

AI D.-

being subsequently appointed assistant manager at Us:-V0rth Co!liery, in the County of Durham, a position which he on being appointed agent to the Felling and in 1894. He has had a varied ll1 mll1mg m both Austria and Spain, and added to he holds appointments in both Scotland and Yorkslme.

In 1895 Mr. Palmer was appointed a Justice of the Peac e for. the. County of Durham, and a member of the County Llcensll1 g Committee. He was elected a member of. the Gateshead Board of Guardians in r898, and on thiS Board he has sat ever since, with the exception of a brf'ak between 1904-7. He was also formerly a member o! School Board and of the Felling Urban DIstnct CouncIl. He takes a warm interest in Societies, is an Honorary Member of the followmg: The Bntlsh United Order of Oddfellows and the Druids, a lodge of the latter bearing hiS name.

Since obtaining his Aid Certi5cate in 890, he has taken keen and promment part in the promotion and extenSIon of ambulance wurk in the district in which he both pror:lOting and also in hel ping classes formed 111 connectIOn WIth the collieries under his control.

Mr. Palmer's connection with the St. John Ambulance dates from the year 1)05, and was brought about ll1 a s?mewhat .remarkable manner. Upon one occasion an aCCident havmg happened at the mine he was struck by the want of skill shown by some of the who were treating the injured man, and learning that, although they had undergone am bulance instruction and obtained their certificates, .they owing to want of practice, forgolten most of theIr tra1l1111g, he determined to start a Division of the Brigade at Felling Colliery.

Col!ege in 188 2 Here he distinguished himself 111 the athletIC field and repr esen t ed th e College in the XV. He was also a good all-ro und cricketer and a capital oarsman. In addition to which he was a mem ber of the School Cadet Corps and captain of his house. It is also interesting to note that he subsequently played for the Cardiff XV. and for the North e rn XV .

Leaving he proceeded to Germany, there to commence hIS education as a mining engineer at the Royal School of Mines at Freiberg, in Saxony, remaining there for two and a half years. During this period he worked practically both in the silver mines as a miner, and at Roya! Smel.ting Works as a puddler. At the conclUSIOn of hIS studIes here he was awarded certificates of proficiency in the various grades of mining; as, however, education at German Universities is not recognised in thiS country for Government Certificates of Competency to Manage Mines, Mr. Palmer served an apprenticeship at the Hill Collieries of Messrs. John Bowes and Partners, In which he an d his family bold a large interest. Leaving here he proceeded to Wales to study mining in that district

In order to revive the flagging interest, a class was at once formed in connection with the colliery when over 100 joined, 24 joining the newly formed division. In 1906 this number. had increased to 45, and this year, the number totalling nearly roo, the Division was formed into a Corps; at the present time the total strength of the corps is 137, and there are engaged in the Felling Colliery 152 workmen who are possessed of first aid certificates' this is equal to 15'75 per cent. of the total men and employed, and as a proof of the great benefit derived from a knowledge of first aid, Palmer says that for all accidents which took place in 1907, the average number of days that each employe was away from work on account of accident was 20'74, which is a reduction of over four days per accident on the average of previous years and prior to the great impetus given at the colliery to first aid work.

Col. Gibbon, the Deputy-Commissioner for No. 6 District, has a keen eye for enthusiastic workers, and :vIr. Palmer was recommended by him for the post of District Supt. of Stores, a position which he still holds with credit to himself and to the great advantage of this large and important Colliery centre. 1\Ir. Palmer is a worker, and through his agency many of the owners and colliery managers in the North have been prevailed up on to form new divisions, so that the strength of the Brigade in the Collieries of Durham and Northumberland is now rapidly increasing. In May, 1906, the first Camp of Instruction in connection with the No.6 District, was held at Castle Eden, and much of the success which attended this first attempt was undoubtedly due to Mr' Palmer, who acted as Camp Adjutant.

In recognition of the valuable services which he has rendered to the St. John Ambulance Association, 1\1r. Palmer was this year, the sanction of His 1\lajesty the

II6 -FIRST

King, p.nrolled as a Knight of Grace of the Order ?f the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem, an honour to which he was justly entitled, and of which h e is deservedly very proud.

The subject of our sketch is a firm believer in the urgent necessity which exists for the formation of properly equipped and highly trained ambulance corps at all collieries, also advocating the gradual training of the men in the use of rescue appliances for use after colliery explosions. With a view to the furtherance of this movement he inaugurated a review of the Ambulance Corps of his own colliery, to which he invited the members of the North of England Institute of Mining Engineers in order that they might witness a demonstration arranged on a somewhat elaborate scale to test the relative merits of various rescue appliances; the makers in each case being present to show the \vorking and explain the systems. In connection with this meeting a series of very exhaustive tests were made, and there is no doubt that, as a result, greater attention will be given to this important subject.

Mr. Palm=r, who is married to a daughter of the late Edward Ramsey, of South Shields, resides at Wardley Hall, Pelaw-on-Tyne, Co. Durham, where he and his amiable wift are ever ready to dispense hospitality or to do anything, that lies within their power, tending to advance the ambulance movement.

As will have been gathered from the brief history which we have given of Mr. Palmer's life, he has been a great traveller, and in this instance, he says, he has been on more than one occasion struck with the Freemasonry which exists among first aiders all over the world, instancing an occasion when he happened to be in Paris on May Day, during the labour riots in that city, and paid a visit to the French Ambulance Society's Station, where he met with a most cordial reception, and was shown everything of interest-including the admirable methods which they had of arranging for duty on such occasions and in the event of their services being required. "I had only to mention," says Mr. Palmer, « that I was a mem ber of the St. John Ambulance Brigade to be received witb open arms."

In conclusion, we wish Mr. Palmer all success in his efforts to further the am bulance movement in a district where it is of such real and practical utility. That he does not begrudge the time and trouble it entails we are very sure; he is a large hearted and generous man, who derives real and genuine pleasure, in his efforts to minimise the pain and suffering which it is often his lot to come in contact with.

YORK (N.E.R. Centre.)-All the necessary arrangements for this year's competitions are now made, and teams are busy preparing themselves at the various places on the system, for "catching the judge's eye." The District Competitions will be held as follows ;-Newcastle, 14th; Darlington, March 15tb; York, March, 21St; Middlesbro', March 22nd; Hull, March 28th; Leeds, March 22th, and tr..e final, for the purpose of selecting the team to represent the Company in the National Competition, will be held in the Festival Concert Rooms York on April th, when it is expected that the Chair:nan of the N.E.R., the Rt. Hon. John Lloyd Wharton, will hand the "Wharton" Shield over to the winning team.

When corresponding with Advertisers please mention "First Aid."

First Aid Competition.

COL. GIBBON, who adjudicated in this competition, writes us as follows

-

" Many showed care, thorough and good sound knowledge in First Aid, but for promptness, skill and resourcefu lness I have awarded-

J st Prize to W. L. GIRLING, 2nd Prize to

L.B.( TS.C. RAILWAY CENTRE, BRIGHTON DISTRICT, S.J.A. B., 61, EDBURTON AVENUE, BRIGHTON.

G. R. CURRY, 9, WINDSOR TERRACE, GOSFORTH, N EWCASTLK ON- TYNE.

" I think these competitions should be encouraged, and I trust others will be forthcoming to lend similar aid in the future such as I ha\'e found pleasure in rendering on this occasion."

To each of these gentlemen we have pleasure in awarding one of Messrs. S. Maw Son & Son's "First Aid Cases."

We appreciate very fully the kind remarks made by Col. Gibbon, and we feel sure that all the competitors will be gratified to learn that the judge thought so highly of their methods for dealing with a problem which required botb tact and ready resourcefulness. We trust that the kind suggestion thrown out by Col. Gibbon to his brother medical men may bear fruit, and that others will come forward to help us make these competitions as interesting and instructive as we feel sure they are popular.

1ST PRIZE

Proble1JZ-

In a town, with no organised first aid appliances, an electric car (workman'S) is overturned. The car contained 15 passengers of the artisan class, and the accident happened while descending 3. steep gradient, the overhead wires were brought down by the disaster, and fell amongst some of the people in the street. The principal injuries inilicted were, broken left leg, compound fracture of right thigh and fractured ribs. A number of persons received cuts from broken glass and others received internal injuries, while some were suffering from shock. The fall of the overhead live wires caused a panic in the crowded street and serious injuries to three people, and two persons were killed as a result of the car falling on them.

Give treatment of the various injuries and the most exyou would remove the injured to the hospital, whIch IS a mIle from where the accident occurred.

Answer-

To my mind the supposed accident is both possible and probable Note Halifax.

If on the spot, my first move would be to send a messenger to the nearest telephone column (these are to be found at brief intervals along all up-to-date electric tram routes) to send a message to the depot informing them what bad happened, and asking for (1) the current to be cut off as the cable was down; (2) medical assistance, and that the hos· pita l be notified that they might expect several important cases, and that covered vans and cabs be sent for

February, 19 0 8 -F

I RST

removals; (3) assistance, £.e., the breakdown gang to lift the fallen car sufficiently to extricate those beneath it. I should despatch messengers to the nearest houses for clean rags for dressings, rugs, blankets, coats, pillows, cushions, walking-sticks, brooms and any warm drinks that could be obtained.

If there was any delay at the depot in cutting off the current, or if it was impracticable owing to endangering other lives in various parts of the town, I should solicit the aid of two or three strong men, caulion them as to the danger they were incurring, tell them to insulate themselves by covering their hands with anything that was dry, two caps, any pieces of cloth, to take their own coats off, and push their hands half-way up the sleeves with the back of the coat in front of them; for preference, if available, anything of a rubber nature, such as macintoshes or tobacco pouches.

Having taken the same precaution myself, I should proceed to take the lattice gates off the platform of the car, or the iron bar usually carried to shift the point. I should carry these one to each end of the crowd, place one end on the earth and drop the other end, not lay it, on to the fallen cable-my motive for this would be to evade any possibility of shock to myself should my insulation not be complete.

Having taken these precautions, I should instruct those who had fetched the coats, blankets, rugs, &c., to distribute them amongst the injured, and then turn my attention to the bleeding cases, notably the compound fracture of thigh. I should get one of the bystanders to take hold of the foot and gently place it in its normal position, extend it to the length of the sound limb and hold it there. I should then removE. as much of the clothing as expedient by cutting it away in order to get at the seat of injury. I should dress it with an/thing that was cleanhandkerchief, cltan paper, cl=an rag, or part of garment. No doubt the ladies present would be as humane as those at the Salisbury, Grantham, Shrewsbury and Hampstead disasters, and give their suitable articles of apparel for this purpose. Having controlled the bleeding, I should now instruct my assistant to tie the feet together in the extended position, and should then turn my attention to the other cases of bl eeding and treat similarly to that of the thigh, only taking great care to remove all particles of glass which might be visible before tying.

Having controlled all bleeding I should then despatch those ready for removal to the hospital in cabs or vans, according to the injury, and then turn my attention to the three persons injured by the falling cable. If they were and respiration was suspended, I should instruct six persons how to perform artificial respiration, Howard and Labordes com bined. I should not use Sylvester, owing to the muscles being in a state of spasm.

Leaving these six people performing artificial respiration, I should now treat the fracture of the thigh by placing a broom that had been brought from an adjoining house, with the head beneatb the patient's arm and the handle by the side of tbe thigh and leg, and fasten it there with pieces of rope, braces or handkerchief around the crest of the hip, both thighs, above and below fracture, and round both legs and knees. I should then have him carefully lifted and placed in a van ready for hospital.

The fracture of leg I should treat with two walkingsticks or umbrellas, one inside and one outside' if only one stick available, outside; if no stick available, tie both legs together with similar articles to those used fur the thigh, above and below the fracture, above the knees and

A I D.- 117

round .both knees and feet. This case I should put in the van WIth the fractured thigh, making as comfortable as possible with rugs cushions, and send to hospital.

In the case of fracture of the ribs, in the absence of any suitable appliarlce, I should carefully remove the coat cut the of the waistcoat from top to bottom, turn cut edge 111 and make holes down both sides corresponding to a lady's corset, take the. from the patient's or my ?,:n and lace up qUIte tIghtly; put the coat on again, 1I1jured SIde first and then sound side. I should then turn up side of coat on injured side to form a sling for the arm fastening it up with pins or string and despatch to the pital in a cab.

Th e patient suffering from internal injuries I should treal according to developed symptoms. Thus, if a patient bad all the symptoms of a fractured rib and was spitting blood (red) I should not tighten the clothes in any way, but support the arm on the injured side as in previous case. Lay the patient on the floor of a van, loosen all clothes inclined to the injured side, give sips of cold water and apply cold to the seat of injury and well cover with coat, and if the blood brought up should be dark I should keep them on their back, apply cold over stomach, give nothing by the mouth and well cover up.

Other symptoms of internal injury might show themselves, and the treatment would vary accordingly, but my general treatment would be, if I could not decide what the injury was, to lay the patient on the back or in that position whicb he said was most comfortable, loosen all clothes, well cover up, elevate the legs slightly and send them off to where they did know.

All cases of shock that had no visible or indicated injury I should treat by applying externally, rug and coat, and internally by giving a warm drink-tea and coffee, or a little brandy and water-and send to hospital in cab.

If by this time the six peofJle I had set to perform artificial respiration had induced natural respiration, I should induce circulation by friction to the limbs, and if capable of swallowing I should give them a little warm drink-milk, tea, or coffee.

Ifany burns were present, where the cable had touched them, I should dress them with any clean rag available, smeared over witb any animal or vegetable grease. Lard without salt, or fresh butter from a house close by, would be the most likely procured; well wrap up with coat, rug, &c., and place them in a van or vans in a recumbent position and send them to the hospital, with an attendant to watch them closely, in case of suspended respiration occurring on the way.

Having given care to the living, no doubt long ere this the breakdown gang from the depot, would ha\'e lifted the car sufficiently to extricate the victims from beneath it. These I should bave placed in covered vans as reverently as possible, and sbould cover their faces a white handkerchief and convey to tbe mortuary to awaIt the usual

I should not relax my effort until all the injured had been attended to, but should any of the medic.al profession come in response to the mess':l.ge sent off 111 the first instance I should consider it an honour to take instruction from and work in conjunction with them.

** * For the information of our readers the papers in these competitions are adjudicated upon by l/ ollJ...,de plum e! only Therefore the judges are unaware of the competitors and we think nothing could be more impartial.

Camp Sanitation. *

By P. BROOME GILES, F.R.C.S. Coloml-Commandallt of tlze Volunteer Ambula?zce Sclzool of 177 struction.

(Continued from page JOI).

THE latrines of each unit. should be placed at one spot, as far as possible from the kitchens, and upon the lee side of the camp;. remembering that in selecting the spot addltlOnal from the lines increases the probamen fouhng the near their tents by urinat109 at Olght. If the camp IS for a week, the latrines should be made comfortable by seats, and a roof provided, I have always found the greater the comfort and decency the more sanitary the latrines are.

Separate accomodation should be provided for the N.C.O.'s and the men.

Large tubs should be provided for passing urine into and these tubs three-quarters filled with sawdust.

For camps which are used for some weeks or repe.atedly each season, it. is a very good plan to have the UrIne through pipes from these tubs into another filled 'Ylth sawdust, and. then carried through pipes to the surroundmg ground or lt1to an un bricked pit when it is gradually absorbed into the earth. Also cement the ground where the men stand at the tubs.

Kitchens are generally sheds with iron roofs and sides agalOst the prevailing wind, they should be kept scrupuloU,sly clean, and. no accumulation of refuse allowed, everythmg collected 10 casks and burned, or carried away and then burned.

.very. little supervision ,will ensure most of the dry debns bemg at kitchen fires, what is not can be taken and burned 10 a circular, shallow pit, specially constructed, where a little sawdust and paraffin will gradually consume. and render everything safe; the last to be destroyed are the tm food cases.

, The washing places should be selected, the surround109 ground and cemented, and all the waste water conducted either over the land or into a pit from which it be pumped. Attention to imperfectly turned taps is Important.

From what I have said, you know that the greatest care must be taken to keep the water and food s.uppl'y pure a,nd fr e e from infection. You know the serIOUS preventable disease which are waterborne; It IS most Important ;-

1. To secure pure water and food.

2.. take all steps to keep both pure and free from contammatlOl1.

Water, however pure, is easily contaminated, and is then a source of danger. So not only the source but the sUPP1 must be carefully guarded. d he sources may, as a rule, be considered pure in this or er;-

I. Deep borings.

2. Deep wells.

3. Springs.

4· Rain water.

S· Centres of lakes.

6. Middle of rivers.

7· Small stream.

'* A lecture delivered at the of the London Hifle Brigade.

AI D.- February, 1908.

8. Edges of lakes.

9 Near the banks of rivers.

10. Ponds.

I!. Shallow wells.

D.eep borings should be quite safe. Deep wells the same, If protected! but you can easily realise that the surface of a well readlly becomes wet, and if a windlass and bucket are .used, the if allowed to rest upon the ground, qUlckly contammates the water in the well. It is therefore best to excavate round the well to fill in with rubble put in a pump.

Springs reqUlre Isolation and protection; means should be to conduct the water through safe channels into a place, fr?m which it can be pumped into carts. Ramwater caught 10 clean receptacles is safe. streams are safest. nearer their sources; all dram age mto them from cultivated lands is a source of danger.

Large lakes, if clean, free from weeds and habitations are safe. water is uncertain and often permanently polluted by dram age, and temporarily during floods. Great care must be taken by corps using river water not to foul and polute the water that flows past them.

Shallow wells should not be used without an analysis. Water can be purified by-

1. Heat, b.oiling, or distilling.

2. Mechal1lcally by filtration

3. Chemically.

chemicals destroy germs.

FlltratlOn mechanically separates debris from the ,,'ater but .does not destroy the germs.

ChemI cals, at present? that .will clarify and destroy germs unfortunately make It practically undrinkable.

In the future, watu stations will be established at centres, boiling.on sufficient scale will be possible.

The reqUISite IS a small, light material with a heatmg coefficient, so as to reduce the transport to a At present all apparatus of a scientific nature IS heavy and bulky to advance with troops, and only sUItable for fixed places on the line of march.

The gravel, sand and moss filter, constructed With IS unsafe at the best it can only filter, and, so clanfy the water from the coarser sand silica and vegetable debris. This clarified water has to be bOIled to render it safe, as the germs of dysentry, enteric and cholera could pass through the fiterate.

When the water is sterilised great care must be taken that. water bottles and other vessels are pure or the stenhslOg of the ,,:,ater has only been so much waste time.

The only relIable filter hitherto which would exclude germs was the "IBerkefeld." The theory was to force more or through cylinders or candles of unglazed pOlcelam. ThiS no dou,bt was, and still is, a great improvement on any prevIOUS method, and this firm have always sent an apparatus under the charge of an expert, to demonstrate their process for our benefit.

drawback to my mind was the relatively small quantity the unavoidable clogging ot the candles, and to break; still, no dou bt, their process was on rIght hnes.

At the time. the Office is issuing a water cart made on SImilar hnes, which after nine continuous days' use, still sterilised 210 gallons per hour. I have t?e of one from Colonel Sloggett, the P.M.O. of dIstrict" and shall show you its action. The cart conSIsts of an 11'0n tank of 108 gallons capacity, to which

February, 19 0 8 -FIRST

is fixed two pumps, two clarifying filters, and eight unglazed porcelain candles divided into two batteries of four each. Each battery empties the sterilised water by means of long curved, narrow pipes, called swans' necks into a seven gallon iron tank. Attached to this tank are twelve taps from which the water bottles may be filled.

The method is simple. The water is pumped through filters of compressed sponge, forcet} through these porcelain candles and passes through the swans' necks into the 7-gallon tank.

As with the "Berkfeld," the sponges have frequently to be boiled, the candles brushed and boiled; but all these precautions are useless or minimised if the water bottles or vessels are contaminated, or if the men are permitted to drink from the taps, or the vessels which distribute the sterilised water.

Chemicals have this great disadvantage, that they render water unpalatable. Alum may be used to clarify, but. does not destroy germs.

I shall now show you two chemical agents, at present upon trial.

No. will clarify by precipitation and sterilise this muddy water which I have manufactured from mud collected outside this drill hall. The precipitation is accomplished by a solution of iodate of potass and sterilising by sulphate of soda.

No.2 is a similar method. Again, the chief, agent is sulphate of soda flavoured, it is reported to be absolutely safe as a destructor of the enteric germ, but the dose is so large as to seriously impair the digestion.

When you are in camp, as specially taught men, you will understand that to enable a commander to bring his best laid strategy to a successful issue, he must have his full complement of troops of all branches.

Unfortunately, except in cases of those belonging to Field Army Brigades, little has been seen by most Volunteers of other branches of the Service other than that to which they belonged. In the future, we are told, all this will be corrected, and not the least of your duties, as part of the R.A.M.C. Territorial Force, will be;-

1.-To see the water is pure.

2.-That all preventable diseases are recognised and isolated.

There is to be in each of the Territorial Divisions of England, Scotland and Wales (fourteen in number) a Sanitary Company, it will be the "cordon blue" of the corps. You men, have at this School, received the special teaching which is requisite and will be well qualified for the duties.

Things are in the melting pot; few know what will happen; all that is generally known is that March 3 1St next, will see the end of the present organisation. April 1St will dawn under a new scheme.

This may be, probably is, the last lecture I shall give at this School; I have been commandant for upwards of ten years; I know the school has done a splendid work, and who ever may be the future P.M.O. of the London Divisions, and we are told there will be these officers to each Division, he will be a lucky man if he secures your services Give him the same loyal support that all connected with this school have given me during the time I have been in command.

BIRMINGHAM.- The first annual Ball in connection with this corps took place on February 7th, at the City Assembly Rooms, when there was a large attendance.

A MANUAL OF NURSING, MEDICAL AND SURGICAL.

By Laurence Humphrey, M.A., F.R.C.P.

The edition of this handbook, just issued by the publIshers, proves conclUSIvely how popular it is amon,gst the mem of the I?-ursing profession, indeed it is not dlfficul.t to realIse why thiS IS so. Dr. Humphrey from his long experIence as lecturer to the probationers at Addenbrook's Hospital, Cambridge is conversant with every branch of the nu!,sing is therefore thoroughly qualified to gUide. and mstruct members in all that appertains to tbs most Important subject. The plan adopted of first giving a short of t,he anatomy of each set of organs, and then descnbIng In detail the treatment of the diseases which may occu!' to t.hose organs, and, the appropriate nursing which is reqUired, IS emmently practical and should commend itself to all who are interested in nursing. Every branch of the work, !ncluding massage is fully dealt with, and in the appendix there IS a most useful selection of recipes appertaining to cooking for invalids. I is well-printed in clear, legible type, and the illustrations, many of which have been expressly prepared for the book, ha\'e been carefully and accurately drawn. We commend this manual to our readers. It will, we feel sure, command a ready sale; the price is 3s. 6d., and it will be both a handsome as well as a useful present for a nurse, or indeed, for anyone taking an interest in this important subject. Ttis }lublished by Messrs. Charles Griffin & Company, Exeter-street, Strand.

FIRST AID TO THE SICK A D INTURED.

By F. LWarwick, B.A., M.B. Cantab., and A. C. Tunstall, M.D., F.R.C.S. Edin.

This manual, admittedly one of the best, has recently been thoroughly revised and brought up-to-date. There are seyeral new exercises and drills with extern pori sed material and transport, notably in connection with FIre Brigade equipment, and mem bers of the Fire Service will be specially interested in these new details. We must congratulate the publishers on the very effective cover-it is both neat and attractive, and a decided improvement ,on the binding of the previous issue. We anticapate for this fresh edition a great demand, for we know of no text book so suitable for the teaching of advan ced first aid, and with the augmentation of ,(olunteer Med!cal Corps, in connection with the Terntonal Force, med Ical officers will find it a useful and relIable book to recommend to the members of the medical branch, I t IS published by Messrs. ] ohn \Vright and Co., Bristol, and the prices are bound in paper covers, IS.; in limp cloth, with flap, 2S. 6d.

FIRST AID READY REFERENCE.

By A. H. Gerrard, M.D. (Lond )

From Messrs. Cuxson and Gerrard we have rece ived a copy of this book.. It is intended says the to give a novIce pl,am mstructlOns what to do. untll. the arnval of the doctor, and 111 no sense to replace, medical ald On other hand it is pointed oU,t the IS In no sense a First AId manual. The author adVises hiS readers therefore to attend classes on the subject and obtain further instruction from one of the many excellent books, which have been specially written upon it. At the same time .we are sure that. even the fully qualified ambulance student will welcome thiS 1.lttll'! which may be suspended near the equipment In order to be handy for ready A lImIted number of copies of this book, when ready, wIiI be sent free of charge. Early application made ro M,essrs. Cuxon, Gerrard and Co., Ltd., Crown-bUlldmgs, CorporatIOn-street BirmIngham.

B revities.

CmIl\IENTING on the possibility of a panic occurring in the case of an outbreak of fire on one of th-= underground railways, the Lancet says there can be little doubt that the minds, at all events of some of the public, are uneasy about the safety of travelling on the underground electric trains, but more particularly the" tube" railways. There are not a few people who confess to a nervous feeling when travelling on the "tubes," while others avoid this expeditious method of travelling altogether because they have terrible pictures in their minds of possible disaster in circumstances which admit of no escape. Already some unpleasant incidents have occurred which fortunately have been free from very serious issues, but they have served to indicate to what a terrible position travellers on the underground electric railways may be exposed. According to a Board of Trade inquiry into an outbreak of fire which happened on a train on the Metropolitan District Railway the main danger in cases of fire arises from panic, but it is difficult to see how panic in such trying circumstances can be averted.

In the case of the Metropolitan and District Railways the chances of escaping from danger are more favourable than they are on "tllbe" railways, but fires have occurred in the" tubes" also. Imagine a train in the" tube" packed with "strap-hangers," in addition to seat-holders, stopping in a tunnel into which the carriages fit almost with the nicety of a plunger in a syringe, and that owing to a short circuit dense volumes of smoke from the destructive distillation of inflammable materials, such as wood and bituminous substances, make their appearance to render the atmosphere un breathable. What adequate r.leans of escape is there having regard to the fact that there are only exits at the ends of the long carriages? Assuming again that these exits are successfully negotiated by hundreds of people, how much better off are they when they have gained a tunnel containing a live rail? We cannut help thinking that tbe "tube" railway companies should be able absolutely to satisfy the public on these points.

If, as the Board of Trade states, the chief danger is that of a panic arising from fire, surely something ought to be done to render an outbreak of fire practically imp(!ssible. * * *

SPEAKIN G at at a dinner given in his honour, Sir George Beatson in the course of his remarks said :-" What we needed at the present day was a healthy nation, and without it we could not successfully meet international rivalry and the possible cpnflict between East and West. A great deal was being done by the nation through its voluntary associations. Some of these were official, others purely civil bodies, but both were voluntary-under the former were the Volunteers, the uniformed Cadet Corps, rifie clubs and military schools, such as the Duke of York's while under the latter came the Boys' Brigades, Church Lads' Brigades, Polytechnic and Shaftesbury

A 11).- February, I908. Societies, together with the hospitals, convalescent homes and ambulance associations. These had all a common aim-the internal strength of the nation. He pleaded for personal service and interest on their behalf. At no time was this more needed. Social reform, especially in our cities, has a wide field, and we required all the elevating agencies we could command to counteract degenerating influences. lIe urged the medical profession to foster an interest in public matters, and especially to support the Volunteers and the St. Andrew's Ambulance Association."

Alluding to the new Territorial Army, Sir George said, "They w,=re all determined to do their best for it, and he expressed the hope that in regard to the medical service the profession would give a hearty response to the appeal made by the Director General; because no other department of the military service was so valuable to the soldier. He thanked the profession for their aid to the St. Andrew's Ambulance Association, the attractive feature of which was the humanising and brotherly influence that it developed and cultivated."

* * *

MRS JOSCELINE BAGOT is well known to many of our readers for the warm interest that she has taken for many years past in the work of the St. J olm Ambulance Brigade. She is also known as a fluent and eloquent speaker, one who slJeaks according to the dictates of the heart and not merely as influenced by the head. Speaking recently at Kenda!, Mrs. Bagot said:-

"They were apt sometimes to hear murmurs arisil:g from the depths of homes of sadness against what was called the mystery of pain. People could not reconcile the fact of the awful suffering in this world with the benign and all powerful attributes of a God of Love. Why must such' things be? they said. Why must the innocent, even the beasts and children also suffer? She was afraid the full complete answer to that question could not be given to them just yet, yet she thought there were very many encouraging thoughts, and one of them was that were it not for that supreme pity which aroused so many men and women when they :;aw suffering and pain around, some of their noblest instincts and grandest qualities would not be developed she did not think they would be brought into being save for that mystery which they called Pain. So when she saw men like those around her adding work to their already busy day, and when she saw young men ready and willing to give up so many of those natural distractions of their youth, it helped her very much: that question seemed to be answered about the problem of pain, because to be really an efficient member of their corps they needed not only skill, they needed the strength of a man, the tenderness of a woman, patience, unspeakable unselfishness, and they must be brave."

THESE are noble and inspiring words, and we feel that they will find endorsement in the heart of every true "first aider."

* * *

IT is not, perhaps, generally known that Col. Bowdler,

February, 190 8 -FIRST who ho lds the appointment of Commissioner for Special Services in connection with t he St. John Am bulance Brigade, is also a musical composer of a very ord.er. A short time since we were present at the evemng serVIce at a church which is noted for the high-class character of its musical ritual, and had the pleasure of listening to a most beautifu l anthem. Prior to leaving the sacred building we made enquiries, and learnt that the anthem was "The Beatitudes," and hat the compose r was Dr. Cyril Bowdler, who, we have since learned, is n one othe r than Col. Bowdler of the St. John Brigade Doubtless amongst our readers there are many who may be connected with church choirs who are not aware of this, to t hese we would say if you have the opportunity get .! The Beatitudes." The music is both grand ann. inspiring, and seems to voice the beautiful words to which it gives expression. It is published by Weeks and Co.

THE Report compiled by Sir Eyre Massey Shaw and Captain Wells on the best means for securing protection against fires in hospitals has now been presented to the Committee of King Edward's Hospital Fund. It has been most carefully compiled, and contains many valuable suggestions _anent the provision of fire appliances and the training of the staff. Great stress is laid upon the urgent necessity of giving an early intimation of the outbreak to the Fire Brigade authorities. This being done, says the Report, the actual fire damage should not be much in the thoughts of the staff. It is their imperative duty to see to the removal of the patients out of the danger zone. Space will not permit of our giving a detailed account, but should any of our readers desire to have furcher information as to its provisions, a very full account' of the report appeared in our contemporary Tlze Lancet, of February 1St.

Th e First " Miners V.C. "

FRANCIS CHANDLER who has earned the distinction of being the first to gain the "Edward Medal" is a typ.ical Yorkshire miner, he is close on sixty years of and hyes at Holyland, near Barnsley. On the occasion gained for him this plOud distinction. Chandler was 111 charge of seven men who repairing the. boiler house when it collapsed. A heavy girder fell and killed one ---n-{ outright, pin).,ng the others down under a mass of debns All were severely burned and four succumbed later on to their injuries.

Although severely b u rned himself, Chandler a gallant attempt t o rescue, taking one sufferer on. hIS back to a place of safety. He then crawled to the pIt and went to the surface for further aid, afterwards lead1l1.g the rescuers to the scene of the accident. One of ,hIS own sons was among the killed, and a second was seriously injured. was injured, his life at one time bell1g dlspalred of. He. lS stIli in hospital, but if he is able shortly travel, .the K1I1g has expressed his desire to personally 1l1vest thIS gallant old veteran with t h e medal.

A Simple and Efficient Me th o d of Performin g Artificial Res pir a t io n.

By. E. A. SCHAFER, F.R.S (Col1tinued/rom page I02).

INSTRUCTIONS FOR TIlE TREATMENT OF THE ApPARENTLY DROWNED.

I MMEDIATELY on removal from the water, place the patient face downwards on the ground. Not a moment must be lost in removing clothing. If respiration has ceased, artillcial respiration is to be commenced at once; every instant of delay is serious.

To effect artificial respiration put yourself athwart or on one side of the patient's body in a kneeling posture and facing his head (see figure). Place your hands flat over the

Figures showing the positions to be adopted in effect· ing artificial respiration in cases of drowning:

EXPIRATIO:\f.

lower part of the back (on the I.owest ribs), one on each side, and gradually throw the weight of your forward on to them so as to produce firm pressure-wh.Ich must not be violent-upon the patient's .By thIS means the air (and water, if there is any) IS dnv,en out of the patient's lungs. Immediately thereafter your body quickly so as to remove pressure, but your hands in position. Repeat thIS forward and backward movement (pressure and relaxation of pressure) every four or fi ve seconds.

-FIRST

In other words, sway your body slowly forwards and backwards upon your arms twelve to fifteen times a minute, without any marked pause betwep-n the movements. This course must be pursued for at least half an hour, or until the natural respirations are resumed. If they are resumed and, as sometimes happens, again tend to fail, the process of artificial respiration must be again resorted to as before.

Whilst one person is carrying out artificial respiration ir, this way, others may, if there be opportunity, busy themselves with applying hot flannels to the body and limbs, and hot bottles to the feet) but no attempt should be made to remove the wet clothing or to give any restoratives by the mouth until natural breathing has recomrr.enced.

Hypodermic injections of atropine sulphate (I-loath to 1-5?th grain) and of su;:>ra-renal extract may be used to assIst recovery.

The experiments conducted all show that by far the most ?'lethod of performing artificial respiration is that of l11termlttent pressure upon the lower ribs with the subject in the prone position. It is also the easiest to perform, requiring practically no exertion, as the weight of the operator's body produces the effect, and the swinging forwards and backwards some thirteen times a minute which is alone required, is by no means fatiguing. t This statement also applies to the supine-pressure method when slowly and without undue violence. But not only IS thiS method less efficient than the prone-pressure method, but there are undoubted dangers attending it, especially in those. cases where the asphyxial condition is due to droWnIng.

The. method, as compared with the others, has It has all the disadvantages of the pOSitIOn, IS most laborious, and is relatively ineffiCient. As regards lhe Marshall Hall method the most effectual part that metho? is the exertion of pressure in the prone posItIOn) roll.mg over is quite unnecessary, an.d attended ma.mfest dIsadvantages. The addition to th!s. method whIch IS advocated by Bowles, + consisting in :alS1l1g the one aI:n: over the head after the body is placed 111 the lat eral pOSitIOn, has been found in measurements we have made, introduce no serious' augmentation in the af!1ount of a.lr exchanged, but merely serves to render it stIll. more dIfficult to perform the respiratory movements effiCiently at the necessary rate.

It was unanimously decided at a meeting of the Court of Common Council of the City of London on February that the honora:y freedom of the City be presented to MISS Nlghtmgale as a testimony of her philan· and. successful efforts for the improvement of hospital nurs1l1g. The date of the presentation has not yet been fixed.

3' e

"One has to be careful what one does nowadays,"

AI D.- February, 1908.

Hremorrhage.

By HEATON C. HOWARD, M.R.C.S., L.R.c.P., Lond.

(Continued from page I09.)

closure is effected .by two processes (I), adheSIOn m t.he vessel and surroundmg parts, and (2) continued contractIOn of the artery.

1. Adlzesio1Z.-In a few hours after the injury, lymph (a liquid plastic material which has the property of becoming organised into a fibrinous structure) is poured out in and around the cut vessel, forming in a short time a large effused mass which amalgamates with the internal and external. clots already form ed, thus completely closing and blockll1g up the vessel from the outside, the colouring matter of the clot in time becoming absorbed leaving the plastic material to become organised.

the same time as these things are takmg place, the artery goes on contracting, em bracing the coagulum so that they are apparently one piece. The ultimate change that occurs in the transformation of the artery up to the nearest branch into a dense fibrocellular cord, which, of course, never becomes pervious again, the plastic effusion in the artery becoming organised and vascularised and incorporated with the arterial walls.

In the case of arteries that have been wounded by a puncture-a small slit-a clot forlns between the artery and its sheath by which the vessel is compressed, and the tendency to the escape of blood lessened. In some cases where the .wound is it may be closed permanently by the.formatlOn of a scar 111 the coats without closing the caVIty, but usually the lymph is effused and fills up the calibre of the vessel which is permanently blocked. It may become a source of weakness and danger if the artery is not converted into a fibrous cord.

In the case of venous th e same process takes place as in the arteries, with the exception that it is not quite so perfect.

In capillary hcemorrhage the minute vessels contract, and the blood clots over the whole surface of the wound and beneath this clot a layer of lymph is poured out which completes the permanent closure of the vessels by becoming organised.

FIRST AID TRE:ATlIIEKT OF ARRESTIN G H IEThIO RRHAGE.

Having gone through the natural process of arresting we can now understand what our first aid treatment should be. We must assist Nature in accomplishing the following objects :- (1) By increasing the contraction and retraction of the arterial coats, (2) by forming an artificial coagulum.

February, 1908 -FIRST

sleeve, a tight collar, or vest, any and every obstruction to the venous circulation must be removed, for the backward pressure will necessarily tend to increase the As regards position, no doubt your attention has been drawn to this, the object of it again is to help the venous circulation.

The next point, the application of cold-either as cold water or exposure to the air, is of consiJerable importance, and rather that. ambulance pupils do not pay quite suffiClent attention to It. Never be afraid of thoroughly examining any wound, do not cover it up until you know whether the bleeding is simply oozing from a large cut surface which may be severe for a few minutes, especially from an surface, or :vhether some large artery is divided, which of course Will tell by seeing the stream spurting out- a vessel the size of a straw-say the radial artery, will stop in a short time by simply being exposed to the air, but our object is to save even this loss of blood, so you would apply ,in addition a little pressure over the bleeding vessel. An Idea of the general public is immediately to cover up a wound with cloths, a proceeding which naturally increases the bleeding because warmth encourages it. Of course you would not use warm water to arrest for the same reason. The application of cold acts by helping the contraction and retraction of the muscular coat.

Although warm water increases bleeding, vei.Y hot water is, at times, used to stop particular kinds of hage, but first -aiders will do well to leave it alone.

Another that is some.times used is the appliof to their different properties, act either by astnngl11g the vessels, that is, increasing of the muscular coat, or by destroying the vltahty of the tlssues and so coagulating the albumen of the tissues and sealing up the mouths of the vessels. I will just mention some of the best-the solution of the perchloride of iron, a most powerful astringent which can be soaked in strips of lint and applied, or merely dabbed on, it clots the blood directly) Matico leaves-the under of the leaf or the whole leaf ground into a powder applied to the wound; tiJrpentine being applied by beIng dabbed on with a piece of lint. There are others, but these are the most handy, especially turpentine. A strong solution of carbolic acid, 1'20 may also be used. Useful also as an antiseptic. Before applying the styptic take care that the bleeding surface is wiped clean and is also clear of clots.

AID.-

the wound itself assists in the formation of the clot by temporarily closing the mouth of the vessel.

(To be continued.)

Obituary.

WF- regret to announce the death of Mr. Dittman the Chief Officer of .the Bremen Fi:e Brigade, who died od Saturday, the 8th mst. C.O. DIttman had many friends in this country who will be grieved to l earn the loss of a real comrad e. We sympathise with our German colleagues in their loss of a real leader. The funeral took place on the 13th.

IT is with deep regret that we have to r eco rd the death on the 25th January of Hon. Surgeon Eagar Mitchell of the Though not altogether owmg t? the senous int ernal complaint from whIch he suffered, hiS many friends did not anticipate that end was so near. During his residence in Sutton, Dr. Mitchell had made a circle of friends , amongst whom the deepest sympathy IS expressed for his 'widow. He had been an ardent worker in the ambulance cause and was always ready to give of his time and talents to its furtherance. The fur:eral, :-vhich was largely attended, testifying to the esteem m which the deceased gentleman was held, took place on the 28th ult. The remains were borne from Osman House to the grave by mem bers of the Sutton-in· Ashfield Division of the S .J.A.B.

The service in the church was choral, and on arrival of the the organist played Chopin's funeral march and Mendelssohn's" Rest in the Lord» as it was leaving. After the committal sentences the members of the Ashfield Lodge of Freemasons, of which the deceased was a member deposited a sprig of acasia on the coffin, the last token of Masonic regard for a departed brother. " The Last Post" was then sounded by Bugler Parkes.

The Metropolitan Street Ambulance Service.

.

Mr. Nynn ,\V estcott, the Coroner, at a Hackney mquest "Some time ago a little girl acted very bravely 111 trymg to save her sister's life. The case attracted some attention and a lady gave the little girl a A few days later my officer found the father the .doll in a public house, telling a tale, and obtammg contnbutions."

t. I ha\'e o n one occasi.on continued it for nearly an h our with o ut the least fallgue, a.nd the subj ect haying any deslle to bleo.lthe naturally or feelIng at allmconyenienced

:t R. L. Bowles, "A :'Iethod for the Treatment of the apparently Drowned," London, 1903.

You have already learnt in your first aid lectures th e methuds to be adopted to attain these ends, and as I do not wish to you what you already know, I will merely go. over the hst and draw attention as we go along to some POInts that have probably not been noticed, and more especially in the tourniquet, as to when and how it should be applied.

T?e methods then that are used are :-( I) Removal of all hIndrances to the return of the blood to the right side of the heart, (2) position of the patient, (3) application of cold, including tbe avoidance of measures which increase bleeding,. (4) styptics, and (5) pressure, including digital compressIOn and the application of the tourniquet.

It is essential to see that all hindrances to the return of the blood to the right side of the heart are removed. It does not much matter whether it is a tight garter, a tight

The next method employed, that of pressure is perhap.s the most important to ambulance pupils. It is always no matter where and when the accident occurs, and It follows therefore that you should thoroughly understand where, and when to apply it. It can be divided into two kinds-digital compression and pressure with the tourniquet.

There one or two general rules about digital compreSSIOn which you ought aJ-.vays to remember, and which you will forgive me for reminding you of. Firstly, always wherever possible, use the last phalanx of the thumb in preference to the fingers - for one reason you can get a grasp of the limb with your fingers, and your thumb IS stronger and quite big enough to cover any artery, also you are not so liable to press the large nervous trunks which causes pain. Secondly, always use the flat portion of phalanx and not the end. Thirdly, ahvays press a bone. A moderate amount of pressure is sufficient and do not use more than is required to stop the of blood. Pressure of this kind helps the formatIOn of the clot by diminishing the force of the current of blood through the vessel at the injured part. Pressure on

IT is expected that the Departmental Committee appointed last year to enquire into the provision of ambu lance requirements for the Metropolis will shortly issue its report. On January 24th Sir Kenelm Digby, the Earl of Stamford and Sir William Collins visited the Northern Hospital, Liver· pool, for the purposP. of enquiring into the horse am bulance service in that city.

The working of the service was fully explained. The members of the committee asked a number of questions bearing upon the question as to the necessity for a doctor to accompany the ambulance as is done in Liverpool. A " call JJ was received during time that the Committee were present, and the ambulance turned out in minute 5 seconds. Before leaving the Committee expressed their satisfaction with the arrangements.

DANGERS OF HORSE Ai\lTIULANCES.-A man nam ed McAuley, who had fallen 40 ft. in a Belfast shipyard and was frightfully injured, had a terrible experience while being taken recently to hospital. The horses conveying the ambulance suddenly bolt ed , and dashed away at a f:-ightful pace, ultimately colliding with a lamp-post and smashing the ambulance. The driver was pitched on the street, and McAuley was taken to hospital in a grocer's van in a state of collapse.

No. District (Metropolitan Corps.)

ST. JOHN'S GATE NUHSING DIVISlON.-In COlllmemoration of the 15th anniversary of the f()undation of this Nursing Division, the ufficers and members have presented a clock for use in the Brigade Room at St. John's Gate, the headquarters of the Division. Five members of the Division, including the present Lady Supt., are taking their service medals this year.

SOUTH METHOPOLITAN GAS COMPANY'S DIVISION.Deputy-Inspector-General Preston, R.N., inspected the members of this Dlvision who are enrolled in the Royal Naval Auxiliary Sick Berth Division on Tuesday, Jan. 28th. The r:nen. put throug.h a series of drills and a practical exam mallOn, 10 all of whIch they acquitted themselves to the satisfaction of the inspecting officer. Asst.-Commissioner Morgan, Supt. J. C. Lines, and other officers were present.

No. 2 District.

BRISTOL - The Assistant Director of the Am bulance Department of the Order of St. John (Col. Sir Richard Carnac Temple, Bart.) visited this city on Jan. 20th, and formally opened the new headquarters of this Corps, The which ,was formerly a warehouse, has a large room for meetmgs, dnlls, &c., accommodation for four ambulance stabling for four horses, and provision for three dnvers, Ambulance assistance is available at any time of the day or night.

EXETER.-A pleasant gathering took place at the Barnon Jan. 27 th when the annual social and dance In aid of the funds of the City of Exeter Division, was held u?der the patronHge of the Mayor, Sheriff, &c. An programme had been arranged and was greatly enjoyed by a large company.

,During the evening His Worship the Mayor presented certd'1cates and medallions, and in the course of a brief warmly eulogised the work which the Division was domg 10 Exeter.

A: very pleasant item in the programme was the presentatIOn by Sergt. Rivers, on behalf of the members of a handso.rl?-e solid brass inkstand to Hon. Surgeon Pereira, in of the valuable services he has rendered to the DlvlslOn, A dance foll.owed social and business part of the prog.ramme. It IS gratlfY10g to learn that the Division is mak10g progress, in addition to increased sUDport from the Citizens, the City Council this year voted £5 to the funds.

No. 4 District.

, BOLT.oN. - The annual inspection of the sick berth reserViStS of thiS corps took place on Feb. 5 th & 6th at the corps' headquarters, Artillery Drill Hall. Inspector' General T. J. Preston, R.N" M.D., conducted the inspection on

AID.- February, 1908.

behalf of the Admiralty, and was accompanied by Col. C. J. Trimble, C.M.G., Chief Supt. F. Lomax, and Hon. Surgeon W. A. Hutton.

The inspection consisted of practical am bulance work and viva-voce examination.

The Inspector General afterwards addressed the men, saying they might take to their credit the fact that not only had Lancashire responded nobly to the Admiralty's call for aid ill time of national warfare and emergency, but Bolton in particular stood out far above all other towns in England in proffering aid. At least two-thirds of the Bolton Reservists had passed the examination in advanced first aid and nursing, and having gone through a period of nursing on one of the warships or at the naval hospital; had become senior reserve attendants, and became entitled to a higher rate of pay. The question of periodical training was now occupying their minds. The matter would be considered, for the reservists were looked upon as part and parcel of the Royal Navy.

Col. Trim ble thanked the Inspector-General on behalf of the Bolton Corps. So far as that corps was concerned, all tl:e work had been done by Chief Supt. Lomax, who had put his heart and soul in the movement, and had been ably assisted by the hon. surgeons.

Chief Supt. Lomax expressed the corps' indebtedness, both to Inspect')r-General Preston and Colonel Tri m ble. The Navy, he said, occupied a very warm place in the hearts of their members. They in Bolton were proud to be the pioneers in the work for the army, and in that kind of work for the navy. Personally he should continue to strive to secure annual training for the men.

The members were then dismissed.

There are now one hundred and thirty-two members of the corps enrolled in the reserve. The Corps Bearer Company is at full strength, with three medical officers.

No. 5 District.

ILKEsToN.- The annual dinner in connection with this corps was held at the Rutland Hotel, on January 24th. The Mayor (Alderman Sudbury) presided and was supported by a large number of local gentlemen and the officers of the corps The Vicar of llkeston proposed the toast of "The St. John Ambulance Brigade" and referred to the splendid work it was doing. It was gratifying to know that the efficiency of their own local corps was never higher.

Chief Surgeon Dobson responded and said the total effective strength of the Ilkeston Corps was 103; about 4 00 cases had been attended by the men while at their work, and about 50 on occasions when public duty had been undert aken. Their financial condition was sound.

SUTTON-IN-AsH FIELD.-This Division has long felt the want of suitable headquarters, with a drill hall for the ambulance and nursing sections, and they feel that the present as a most suitable time to take steps to accomplish this purpose by building them as a memorial to their late Hon. Surgeon (Dr. E. Mitchell). The Division voted the sum of £20 to the fund and ten of the members have each the sum of £1, they h ave thus the sum of £3 0 as a neuclus before canvassing the public for donations. The suggestion has received the approval of many of the principal inhabitants, and already an offer of £10 has been made on condition that nine sim ilar amounts are forthcoming. Mr. R. F. lIubbl e, of the Union of London and Smith's Bank, Sutton -in-Ashfield, has been appointed hon. treasurer to the fund. This who was

February, 19 08 . -FIRST

formerly the Chief Supt. of the I1keston Corps, is wellknown in No. 5 District, having been Adjutant of the District Camps at Morecam be, 19 0 4, and About £400 is of the and It I.S hoped that the publJc w.111. show their appreclaLlon of. their latc townsman by asslstlng a IS to perpetuate his life and work among his fellow CitIzens for the public weal.

WORKSOP.- The annual dinner of this corps was held at the Lion Hotel on February 13th. Hon. Surgeon and Supt. A . .J. presided, supported by the Rt. Sir F, MIlner, the VIcar of Worksop ot?,ers, SIr F. Milner, in making the speech of the evenmg,. Tl;,e sop Division of the St. John Ambulance .Bngade, . said It was a great pleasure to the opportumty of agam meeting the members of the dlvlslOn; It was now some twelve year since the corps had. been formed, and the results reflected the greatest credit and honor upon all concerned; however, two things were wanted.. The people of "':'orksop should recognise a little generously the work of the brigade, and he dId hope more would be forthcoming. He thought that a town the size of Worksop ought to muster at least 100 instead of 50, as the strength of the brigade now stood, T?e. good clearly set ought t? induce others to Jom. Durmg the evening a presentatIOn was made to Hon. Surgeon Montague.

No. 7 District.

RHONDDA (Glamorgan). -On T.uesday eve.ning,. February 4th, before a large assemblY J LIeut.-Col. Sn Richard C. Temple, Bart., Asst. Director and of the S.J.A.A., paid a visit to Ton Pentre and delIvered an eloquent and interesting address at the new Workmen's Hall under the auspices of the Rhondda Fawr Corps. Mr. w. jenkins, Asst. Managing Director of the Colleries, presided, and in his opening remarks emp.haSlSed need of giving support to the Rhondda Corps m carrymg out a necessary work.

Sir Richard, in the course of his remarks, stated that it had been thought that the found support in the North of England, but It had been discovered that in Glamorganshire and South Wales they had as good a representation as in the North. .

It was, he said, very necessary 10 all. work that dIScipline must be observed, and particularly m rescue work in mines, and ambulance training furthered that He urged women to the importance of home nursmg, and regretted that it was very much It was a necessity, especially industrial centres..

Sir Richard was supported by Chief Supt. Tom DaVIS, Rhondda Fawr Corps, Chief Surgeon J. R. Armstrong, Chief Supt. T. E. Richards, Mardy Corps; T. O. Osmond, Supt. Secretary, Rhondda Fawr; Dr. Campbell, Hon. Surgeon.

A smart exhibition of ambulance work, under the command of Chief Supt. Davis, was given by the No. Squad of the Maindy and Eastern Division during the proceedings, the patient being supposed to suffer from a scalp wound and fracture of the leg.

SOUTHAl\T?ToN.-Colonel Bance, chairman of this Centre, has generously given the ot the Royal Victoria Rooms for the presentation of certificates by Lady Perrott, on March 2nd. By permission of the Chief Constable the Band of the Southampton Police will be in attendance. There are 2 14 certificates for presentation.

National Fire Brigades Union.

THE annual general meeting of the Council was held at the Holborn Restaurant, London, on Wednesday, February 5th , at 3 p.m.

Col. Seabroke presided, and there was a large and representative gathering of the mem bers present. The Report and Balance Sheet were presented and adopted.

Col. Seabroke was unanimously re-elected to the position of Chairman, and Capt. Graham (Hampton) and Capt. Levy (Rochester) were elected Vice-Chairmen, The following new brigades were enrolled :-St. I ves (Hunts), Emsworth (Hants), Bury (Lancs ), Gloucester Fire Float, Andover, Newhaven Town, Buckfastleigh, Cradley, Halesowen, Cokemore, r'ditcham, Greenhall & Co., and Vaynor (South Wales).

The subject of Foreign visits was discussed, and eventually referred back to the General Purposes Committee to consider and further report upon

The Tournament Committee reported that satisfactory arrangements had been concluded with the Corporation of Scarborough to hold the Camp on the Castle Grounds from July roth to ] 8th. A strong local committee had been formed, and Lord Londesborough, who had a keen and active interest in the gathering, had promised to take all possible steps to ensure success, and had also stated that it was his intention to be present and remain in Scarborough during the time the Camp was on. The Bishop of Kensington had promised to preach at the Church Parade on Sunday, July 12th. A full programme of events had been prepared, and would shortly be issued to all brigades. The Yorkshire District intend to hold the annual District Competitions in the Camp on Saturday, July r8th.

The Long Service Medal Committee recommend the grant of r28 medals to qualified applicants.

It was decided to hold the Annual Banquet at the Holborn Restaurant on Wednesday, March 11th. The President His Grace The Duke of Marlborough, K.G" presiding: Prior to the Banquet the annual general meeting of the Union and of the Widows' and Orphans' Fund will be held.

With a view of obtaining better terms for firemen travellin 6 to any gatherings, a sp,ecial comm.it.tee was appol11ted to interview the raJlway a'!thontles..

It was decided that Dlstnct Secretanes and District Treasurers are entitled to vote at all District meetings by virtue of their office.

Capt. Graham announced that an exceedingly fine cinemetograph show illustrative of a fireman s life work was about to be put on at the Palace Theatre, and It was intended subsequently to send it on tour. through th.e Provinces under the patronage of the Umon, Majesty had given his the same. The IntentIOn being to benefit the WIdows and Orphans Fund of the Union.

I26 -FIRST

EASTERN DrsTRIcT.-A meeting of this District was held at Liverpool -street Hotel, on February r 5th, Capt. H. Miller pre siding, and amongst those present were Mr. H. F. 1. Hallows, vice-president, CO.'s. Johnson, Jeffery, Bunsaull, G. M. Horn, Summers, Sayers, Wheatley, Second Officers Roe, Wood, Hatcher, Ransley and Capt. Woollard (hon. secretary and treasurer).

The District decided to hold the Competition at Loughton, on Easter Monday, and voted about ;/;15 from District Funds to the pri ze fund.

Sp ecialll£altual E ngin e Drill C01lZpetitz'07Z.- The team makmg the best aggregate time in the one and two man dry manual drill, with one length canvas hose v thread and one length of suction" No Dam" to be the winners.

Horn, .of Clarnico Fire Brigade, kindly offered -and It was receIved with thanks - to send a steamer the house for fire escape drills, and to arrange for' the attendance of his band, etc.

The Hon. District Secretary was instructed to write

Mr. C D.ennison, of Loughton, thanking him for kmdly presentIng a challenge shield to the District for the additional manual en g ine drill competition.

. Conddions of Holding tIl e Shields.-Proposed by Wood, seconded by S e cond Officer Roe, that the &c., be kept as championship shields, and that be to enter and win, if possible, all four atlOnal trIa! drIlls. by Capt. Johnson, by Capt. Horn, that In event of a brigade winning a shIeld cup, that they be debarred from entering other NatlOnal events. The amendment was carried.

EASTERN DI STRICT VOL(JNTARY DEATH LEVY.-

ChI e f Officer Woollard, in his report on the working of this Fund for the that the calls upon it have been the. hea sIn.ce Its formation in 1898, seven members. havmg died dunng the first four months of the year. the year un.der review the sum of;/; 171 6s. was paid out to t?e of deceased members, making a grand total SInce the Inception of the Fund of ;/;5 2 4 These voluntary .are no doubt of inestimable to the. famIlIes at such a period, and the sum of une shIllIng payable by each mem ber on a call, is so small that we wonder that the system is not more regularl adopted. y

At a full meeting of the Tournament Committee h ld on. Wedn;sd a y, January 22nd, it was finally decided thiS sCamp and Competitions at Scarborough. A deputatlOn, consistIng of Mr. Horace Folker Capt. CI I the Hon. Gen. Sec., had visited Scarbor'ough the VIOUS week en.d, th e y had several interviews with the CommIttee (whIch has control of fire brigade matters 111 thIS town), the Mayor (Mr. Fowler) AId Row t ( M ) d C , n ret exayor , an Fletcher, the latter gentleman has for yea.rs champIoned the cause of the local brig-ade. The CounCll offered the full use of the Castle HI'11 G d h fi " roun s t e nest SIte 111 town, which is aptly described as' the Queen of places. The deputation visited the and found It a most excellent site for the Cam 1 he vIews also to be seen from it are grand, the hill beit a promo.ntory between the north and south ba Th g Camp WIll be opened on Friday July loth and YS:ll e · '1 h f . , .' ,WI conmue untl e ollowll1g FrIday evening.

WHEN CORRESPONDING WITH ADVER. TISERS PLEASE MENTION "FIRST AID."

We a1 e in no way responsz'b!e jor the opz'nz'om expressed or tIl e statements made, by Correspondents.-EDITORS.

IPSWICH AMBULANCE HEADQUARTERS.

SIR,-Referring to review of 1907, in FIRST you calle.d a.ttet;tlon to. the fact no corps or diVISIon 111 N? 3. DIstrIct IS yet In pose5SIon of headquarters. ThIS IS Incorrect, as the Ipswich Corps have had he:=tdquarters over four years. These consist of a large hall for drill pLll and a small room for games, classes, &c., in con nect.IOn WI th tl-:e corps.

ThiS .roon; bell1g h iS'her than the.hall, is used as a stage for cancel &c., by takll1 g- ou t a sectIOn of loose panels.

There IS a comfortable cottage for the station attendant and a co.ach-house for tile ordinary a mbulance carriage and well-eqUipped. both of which are in constant use. Horses are wlthm a mmute of the station

I think, therefore, 1pswich can claim' to be up-to-date in every way.

The of course is on the 'phone, and so is the transport supenntendent.

I shall probab}y be too-late in sendin g you this correction as sor:ne of the semor officers of the district will have hastened to wnte you on the subjecl.

I would just add that the town and district, as well as ourselves., have to. thank the local Hon. Secretary, Miss CouIcher, for sp!endId result, and she is supported locally by an enthUSIastiC band of workers.- Y o urs faithfully,

J. H. CUCKOW.

Late S.upt. .Sec. Ipswich Corps.

[We thank Mr. for hIS kmdly correction. We must confess that until r o":,, we had under the impression that the headquarters so kindly provided through the liberality and efforts of Miss Coulcher, really belonged to the I S ] .A.A., and that the variOlls divisions of the I psvnch Corps S.] .A.B., were permitted to use them fur drill purposes, lectures, &C - E D "F.A."J

CANTLIE S " FIRS'I· AID TO THE INJURED."

page 118, paragraph 5, of Dr.

CantlIe s text-book First Aid to the InJured" 10th edition 't that "Electric is conveyed by' a cable, wire,' raIl or bar, called the .and returns to the source of supply by another cable, Wire, rail or bar, called the' negative' or through the earth." On page 119, paragraph I, it is stated how proceed when the sufferer is in contact with the "POSItive ."

May I ask, throu g h the memiuJl1 of your valuable paper if the same should be adopted when the sufferer is'in cO.ntact WIth the" negative,?" whicll, in the case of an electric railway, be a fourth or the running rails.

I .take It that the mechum through which the current is returnmg, whether a rail or a running rail, is a live rail, :=t nd the same precautIon must be taken as wben the sufferer is 111 contact With the" positive."

Referr ing to page 32 of the same edition, some first alders are of Opl11lOn that the "seat of injury " referred to i the para g raph definin g " indirect violence " the hand the case of fractured clavicle or fore-am';, when the hand has been outstretched to break the fall I s the "seat of" " the of fracture, " or the spo't where the force applIed? If the" seat of injury" means the" seat of fracture" then the first part of t.he paragrapb contradicts the other.

I shall be glad If some of your readers will enlighten me

February, 19 08 -FIRST on these subjects, which I think will prove of interest to many fi rst aiders.

Apologising for so of your space, and thanking you for the 1l1SertlOn. - Yours faithfully, WrLLl !\ill GOODLEY, First Officer G.E.R. Amb. Brigade, March Division.

DEAR SIR,- I shall esteem it a favour if you will allow me a little space in your valuable paper. I should like to know if there are any open indi v idual competitions held either in NO.5 district or any of the other district?

Also if male nurses are taken in any hospitals or infirmaries outside the RA.;Vr.C. If so, what are the necessary qualifications ?-Yours truly, FIR. STA. ID.

FIRST AID NAME PLATES.

SIR -With reference to the letters which have appeared in the of FIR ST AID concerning the affixing of name plates to the doors of ambulance men, I enclose a copy of the membership card which is issued by our committee to members, thinking that perhaps it nJight be of interest to your readers. These c ards, more or less, obviate the necessity for the door plates. Any number of them may be obtained by ea c h member on his applying to the officers, and by this means the cards can be circulated amongst a large number of the public.

- Yours truly, A. H. W. MO FF .\T, First Officer S.J.A.B , Gippeswyk Division. Ipswich, Feb. 1 rth, 1908.

[We publish Mr. Mo!fat s.letter and suggestions, bu.t we candidly confess that the Idea IS not one that cOITmends Itself to LlS; it savours too much of the lay pract z'tion er, and we should say, not be cOllntenanced by the medIcal profeSSIOn. -ED. " F.A. "J

SPHERE OF WORK 'CROSS OF THE BRITISH SOCIETY. RED

DEAR Sm, - There have been several paragraphs in your Journal concerning the British Red Cross So c iety. But up to the presen t I have not seen any defi ni.te form of worl'. assig!1 ed to this body to undertake, although It IS stated that thiS SocIety is now the only One recognised by the Government, through which aid can be tendered to the army and navy in the time of war. Sir Frederi ck Treves, in a discLlssion, suggested certain movements which he said might be associated with this Society, such as a iving- lectures on sanitation and hygiene. Another leading ;entleman suggested that some of the should provide hospital accommodatIOn and aSSistance, 111 order that the Territorial forces might get in touch with the requirements needed in actual warf:=tre.

I should like, sir, if YOll can gIve me the 1I1formatlOn, to know what sphere of work the British Red Cross Society really proposes to undertake?

In Japan in time of peace, tra1l11l1g In all kInds of .hospltal work ambulance work, sanitation, and in fact, anyth1l1g that would tend to reduce and minimise suffering, etc., in t ime of is taught to the people.

I should also like to know if the Society can take on the work as suggested by several prominent which short notices of their remarks have been published m your first aid J ourna!. Thanking you in for full a reply as you are able to furnish.-I remain, yours obediently, E. R MORPIlET.

Halstead, Settle, February IIth, 1908

[In reply to our correspondent we would sugges.t. that he should communicate with the Secretary of the BrItIsh Red Cross Society, Adam-street, Adelphi, London. As as understand the character and scope of work of the So c iety In time of peace, it will confine itself t? members and associates who will guarantee finanCIal aid for the of providing hospita l equipment, &c., in time of war. St;ggestlons

AID.- 12 7

have been made from time to time that with the funds at the Society'S disposal it should assist in the tra ining of auxiliary aid for the but we believe no steps have been as yet taken 111 thiS dire c tIOn. In Japan, it must be borne in mind, they have no So c iety an a lagous to those of the St. JOhl1 and St. Andrew s. - ED. "F A."]

RECITATIO S WANTED.

SIR,-I should be glad if you or any of your readers could inform me of a book of recitations and readings suitable for Ambulance Soc ials, &c. If it is one tou c hing upon Ambulance work it would be so much the better.-Yours truly, W. A. K NOTT, Hon. Sec. Dover Division. 20, Alfred-road, Buckland, Dover. 14th Feb., 1908

First International Congress on First Aid and Life Saving.

THE following gentlemen form the Committee for Great Britain of the above Congress which will be held at Frankfort-on-Maine, during Whitsun tide :-

The Rt. Hon. His Grace the Duke of Marlborough, K.G., chairman.

Sir John Furley, CB , Vice-Chairman St. John Ambulance Association.

W. Collingridge, Esq , M.D., M.A., Medical Officer of Health, City of London.

Horace S. Folker, Esq., Vice President National Fire Brigade's Union.

Lieut.-Colonel W. G. Macpherson, CM.G Royal Army Medical Corps.

Lieut.-Colonel H. J. Barnes, Secretary, St. Andrew's Am bulance Association.

G. H. Makins, Esq , CB., F.RC.S., Surgeon to St. Thomas's Hospital.

Comma.nder St. Vincent Nepean, R.N., M.V.O., Chief Inspector of Life Boats.

E. O. Sachs, Esq., F.R.S., F.S S., Chairman of British Fire Prevention Committee.

S. Osborn, Esq., F.R.CS., J.P. ( Hon. Secretary).

Albert M. Oppenheimer, Esq. (Assistant Hon. Sec.)

We have receiv e d the report of the International Fire Congress which was held at Milan last year. rt is a wellbound volume containing many illustrations, and the papers which were read are printed in three languages, to all members who took part in the congress this report is supplied free provided cost of postage is paid. Application should be made to Mr. C. Kusel, 36, Newton-road, Westborne- grove, London.

FIRE AT A C ONVENT.- The presence of mind of the Mother Superior and nuns of the Convent of the Sacred Heart, Newcastle, prevented a great catastrophe re c ently, when the residential portion of th :; Convent, including the dormitories of the girls' school and the female teachers training college, were burnt out. Escape by the staircase was cut off. It is unknown how the fire originated, but the building being old burnt like In. order to escape from the building the nuns had to ImprOVIse ropes of knotted sheets to let down their charges fr0111 the upper storey windows. This was accomplished, and some fifty children were saved without receiving any injury. The nuns then slid down themselves, the Mother Superior bringing up the rear, and being th.e last to leave. The building, a fine old hall, was gutted 111 two hours.

Ju st Read y. Fifth Edition. 30th Thousand. WIth 234 Original Drawings. Limp Cloth with Flap, 25. 6d. net; Paper, IS. net Post free IS. 3d. "FIRST AID" TO THE INJURED AND SICK.

An Advanced Ambulance Handbook.

By F. J. WARWICK, B.A., M.B., Cantab., and A. C. TUNSTALL M.D., F.R.C.S., Edin.

" Has already taken its place as a standard work. "-Brit Med. Jour.

Fourth On Sheets 2 ft. 2 in. by 3 ft. 4 in. 25. each, or 275. 6d. net. the set of 18 Sheets, or mounted on Lmen 455. net. With ckel Head for Suspe nsion. Adopted by the WAR OFFICE, the ADMIRALTY and the LONDON SCHOOL BOARD.

LARCE SHEET "FIRST AID" DIACRAMS

Of the Illustrations in Warwick & Tunstall 's'" FIRST AID' TO THE INJURED AND SICK."

Seventh Edition, Revised !and Enlarged. With Additional Illu strations Post 8vo, 2S. net.

FIRST AID TO THE INJURED.

Six Ambulance Lectures.

By Dr. FRIEDRICH ESMARCH. Translat ed from the German by H.R.H. PRINCESS CHRISTIAN.

The Schoo/m.a st.e?' : -" Anyone anxious to gain knowJedae m the art of r el levmg. pam, ?r possi? ly of saving lik, cannot do better than study these Il1 te restmg and Ill st ructive pages.

London: SMITH, ELDER & CO IS, WATERLOO PLA CE, S. vV.

Policy No. 600,093. £100

"FIRST AlD." Free Insu.rance

UNDERTAKEN BV

The Ocean Accident and Guarantee Corporation, Ltd. (Empowered by Special Act of Parliament.)

Principal Office: 36 to 44, Moorgate Street, London, E. C.

This Coupon =lnsurance =Ticket must not be detached

WILL be paid by THE OCEAN ACCIDENT AND £100 GUARANTEE CORPORAT I ON, LIMITED, PRINCIPAL OFFICE, Nos. 36 to 44, MOORGATE STREET, LONDON, E.C:., to the legal personal representative 01 the bona }ide ho ld e r of thIS Coupon-Insurance-Ticket if the holder sh.a lJ be killed or fatally injured by an accident within the United KlI:gd.om or. Channel to any. Rai lway C:0mpany's passengertram III which the holder IS trave lhn g as a lIcket-bearing or farepaying passenger.

Provided the above undertaking is sub ject to the following speci a conditIOns, which a re of the essence of the con tract , viz. (a) death result. within thirty after the accident; (b) that the holder shall, pnor to aCC Ident, have wntten hIS (or her) usual signature n ink in the space. (c) that noti ce of the a::cident be given to the Corporatlon at ItS Pnnc'.pal in London within ou rte en days after its occurrence; medIca l certificates and other info rmation he furnished by th7 person c1almll1 g.upon request for the same by the Corporation; and (e) that thIS appl ies only to persons over twelve and under seven ty years of age, IS lImIted to one Coupon·Insurance-Ticke for anyone holder, and holds good for the current month of Issue only

Thi s the h older to the benefit of, and s subject to t?e condItIOns of Ocean Accident and Guarantee Company, LImIted Act, 1890, Risks N os 2 and 3 when they are not in compatible with th e special conditions above

Tlu jJqssl!ssion o.f iltis CoujJon-InStwance. Ticket is adlllitted to be tIle jJayment oJ t1;jJr.emmm under Sec 33 o.f the Act. A Print 0/ tlu Act can be seen at tIle Pr71lcijJalOlJice o/tlle Corporatio?.

Sig"nature lWo ntl. 0/ issue: Fd r7frlry 20t/1 to lWa?·cll

The Independent Journal for the Ambulance and Fire Services.

To

As it is the wish and desire of the Proprietors to make this Journal as instructive and entertaining as possihle, correspondents in all parts of the country are asked to give it all the help they can Superintendents of Corps and Officers of Divisions of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, Officers of the Royal Army j\f edical Corps (Volunteers), the Volunteer Ambulance School of In st ructi on, and Chief Officers of Fire Brigades will, it is hoped, do their best to make it known amongst the members of their re spective o rganisations, and will also send for publication their official news and no t ices. Suggest tions are invited for Prize Competitions and other matters which will advance the interest of the] ouma!.

We particularly desire to ask our correspondents to he brief and to the point in any communications they may send us for publication.

Correspondents sending in photos are urgently requested to state on the back of the same the name of the individual or the Corps or Brigade, and give a lso the name and address of the sender.

We Leg to advise our readers that we do not pay for photographs o r copy sent, unless previously agreed upon in writing. " First Aid" is published on the 20th of the month.

EDITORIAL.

FOR many years past, in fact we might Warning. say ever since the issu e of our first number, this Jouma1 has consistently advoca t ed th e cause and principles of Peace, and has left no stone unturn ed to foster and encourage the promotion of those international gatherings between municipalities, and other institutions, which have done so much to break down the barriers of reserve and suspicion which until recently characterised the action of one nation to another All this fee ling, if not exactly a thing of the past is, mainly owing to the instrumentality and statesmanlike actions of King Edward VII., becoming less and less as time goes on We, in common with other Peace advocates, r ejoice that it is so, but we do not tndorse, indeed, we strongly con d em n, the ill-advised action of thos e who, owing to this present satisfactory condition of affairs cry aloud for the weakening of th e d efensive forces of this great Empire. Such conduct is reckl ess in the ex tr eme Th e Peace blossom is a slow-growing plant, it has taken many years to bring it eve n to the surface, and any attempt to hasten its grow th in any particular part of the world by total or even partial disarmament until some universal-some inter-

national-understanding has been arrived at by the nations as a whole, will inevitably lead to disaster and probably once more set back the cause of peace for many years. We are led to make these remarks owing to the constantly recurring attacks which are being made upon LOld Roberts, and others for their advocacy of the promotion of rifle clubs in this country, in order that every able-bodied citizen may be enabled to take part in the defence of h earth and home should the occasion ever unhappily occur, which, God forbid, that this country should be engaged in a war which might possibly tax all its resources.

Lord Roberts is a Christian gentleman, albeit he is a soldier, and it is unworthy of any right-minded Englishman or woman to impute to him the "swash-bucklingt principles which they do. I t is childish to infer that because a man is instructed in art of rifle shooting it will inculcate within his breast the desire to kill his fellow men. It might just as sanely be argued that citizens who are sworn in each year as special to assist the civil force-the police -in case of emergency or riot, will thereby become imbued with a }onging desire to provoke a breach of the peace, in order that they may have the oppcrtunity to arrest one of their fellow townsmen.

No, the tim e is not yet ripe for a dimunition in the price we pay for national defence, and for the present we would counsel all patriotic peace-loving Englishmen and women to cease from reviling our soldiers, because they advocate the doctrine of self-defence; let them rather endeavour to promote th a t unity amongst our own countrymen, so that other nations recognising the strength of the ties which bind all classes together, may realise that the friendship of this great country is somethin g worth the possessing, and rely upon it they will find that such a policy will be one of the strongest guarantees of the maintenance of international peace

The executive of the "General Sir Charles Warren" Amb u lance Shield competition met at the Porth. Porth und er the presidency of Dr. S. G. Morns, chIef of Mardy Corps. It was decided that the co:npetition be held at M ardy in June. Mr. Tom Davles (secretary), chief of the Fan: r Corps, was instructed to mterview WrIte General SIr Charles Warren invitin g him to VISlt Wales to award the shield a nd prizes to the winners.

-FIRST Hremorrhage.

By HEATON C HOWARD, M. R.CS., L.R.c.P., Lond.

(Concluded from page I2J.)

TH ERE is also another kind of pressure which is sometimes employed and is very useful, that is forcible flexion. Flexion of the for ea rm on the arm with a small pad in the elbow will stop or nearly stop the radial artery, this method is useful in wound of the palm and so in the ham, and also in wounds of the foot.

We now come to the last resource we have for the arrest of serious bleeding from a large artery, viz., the application of the tourniquet. This as you know is a mechanical contrivance for maintaining pressure on an artery. It really means screwing down a pad on to a vessel, but we us e the t e rm for any kind of contrivance that will ke ep up the pressure.

There are one or two points in connection with this that you ought to remember. Always take great care that your pad is placed exac tly over the artery and that it keeps in its place during fixing. In puiling on the "Spanish windlass" you sll.ould. always put the bandage on slack then put your stick 111 the knot, taking care that your pad does not move away from the artery. It is also advisable to place a thin piece of wood or cardboard beneath your t:nist, twist up rapidly to prevent the venous con gestlO n whIch would bother you by increasing the venous h cemorrhage. The next question now comesWhen should it be used? To answer this I must just tell you when it is not required. From what I have seen of ambulance pupils in the many examinations that I have

I am driven to conclusion that they would immedIately put on a tournIquet for every slight hcemorrhage they see. .It is not required for any wound of the hand. The worst you can get here is wound of the palmar arch, and, thIS be controlled for the time being by a well applted pad 111 the hand coupled with forcible flexion of the elbow. You may put pads on the radial and ulnar arteries, but that does not stop the whole of the blood that comes into the hand.

You do not require a tourniquet for any wound in the forearm, unless for some reason such as glass in the wound or a broken bone sticki!1g into the artery you cannot apply on bleedmg vessels; it is certainly not reqUlred for capIllary bleeding. If you have a severe wound of upper arm with the blood pumping out of the brachIal artery, then you must apply a tourniquet. With r egard to limb, the same remarks apply to the correspondmg portions. I was called once to a lady who had cut her hand (the ball of the thumb! by slipping down on some glass, They sent for me, and 111 the meantime it by ambulance pupil in the house. He had a tIghtly round the wrist, and the wound was stlll bleed.mg. He could not understand it. I saw at once that It venous bleeding-I loosened the ligature and the bleed1l1g stopped. The application of cold as water. or exposure to the air would have stopped this in a few mmutes.

next point ,o f importance is how long can the tourl11que,t be on WIth safety? You must remember that tourmquet IS a severe re.mo;dy and must only be applied I_n cases urgent It prevents all the blood trom .enterlng or leavmg the limb and therefore it is essential for you to know the length of it may remain

AI D.- March, 1908.

on. It acts by stopping the current of blood at the wounded part, giving time for a firm clot to form. The utmost limit of time you would be justified in allowing it to rf"main is two hours, in all probability before that time a doctor would have seer: the ca3e and have done what is necesary, probably have tIed the vessel.

If the tourniquet is removed in two or three hours the will be to have stopped. If not, the tournl9uet can be re-applled. If the bleeding be stopped, a clot WIll have formed blocking up the vessel. A pad and bandage should then be fixed carefully over the wound taking care not to displace any clots, and to keep patient perfectly quiet.

VENOUS H JEMO RRHA GF.

The process of arresting h ce morrhage in the veins is practically the same as in the arteries. There is the contraction of the muscular coat, and the formation of a clot the only difference being the process is not quite complete.

I, have only to impress upon you the absolute necessity of seelOg that anything likely to hind e r the return of the verlOUS blood is rem.ove d, such garters, tight clothing and also to pay attentlOn to the posltlOn of the patient. Also remember t?at if a large vein is divided you will very likely from both ends. The bleediug from a vancose vell1 ll1 the leg can easily be stopped by a small firm pad placed <:>0 the wound and kept in position by a bandage or a stnp of good plaster. Of course raise the limb, This variety of bleeding is interestin g , inasmuch as on account of t he great pressure behind, the blood spurts out very often 10 a ,stream o,r smal.1 j et , and is distinguished from artery bl : edll1g by ItS belOg continuous and not jerky.

Capillary blteding, if likely to become serious as ' it may be when occurring on an inflam e d surface, r eq ui'res, of course, pressure on the wound itself. It is generally pretty for a few moments, as you may have seen in persons WIth cuts about the hand, but soon lessens if left alone exposed to the air, and also is encouraged by being co vered up ",:ithout the application of pressun>. Do not a capillary bleeding for a serious arterial bleedlOg as ll1 the case of the woman with the cut hand that I have mentioned.

I hope that in my attempt to explain to you the natural of .the arrest of hcemorrhage you will not gather the ImpreSSI?n that you h.ave to leave the bleeding alone and to allow It to stop of Itself, your first aid treatment is to stop the bleeding, and not allow the patient to suffer from the loss of blood.

Wolseley Tool and Car Company, Ltd., have just supphed, to the order of His Majesty's Office of Works a combined private omnibus or ambulance for the use' of at the Convalescent Home at Osborne Isle of .The vehicle is built on a Siddeley with cham dnve, and a wheel-base of ft. I in., fitted with a 40 h.p. motor, having high tension electric a!1d magneto Igl1ltlOns. When required for private work SIX, bucket seats, with special spring sockets are used whIch,. when the vehicle is wanted for ambuhnc'e work, ?e removed, and replaced by stretchers. The body IS pall1ted a dark green, and the seats are upholstered in .leather of the same .colour. A luggage rail is fitted, whIch IS of carrymg about 9 cwt. Owing to its power, th.e car IS fast, and good on hills, and will no doubt prove of Immense value in urgent cases.

March, J 908. -FIRST

Our Portrait Gallery.

COLONEL SlR RICHARD CARNAC TEMPLE, BART" CI.E., A SSISTANT DIRECTOR OF THE AMBULANCE

DEPARTMENT OF THE O RDER OF ST, J OHN AND DEPUTY CHAIRMAN ST. JOHN AMBULANCE ASSOCIATION.

ONE for the success, the great success, which has been achIeved by the Order of St. John in co nn ectio n with its ambulance work, has undoubted ly been owing in a grea t

Al D.- 13 1

dispatches an? the medal for that campaign. He Rlso saw servIce ll1 the Burmese War of r887 -89 receiving the tw o clasps,

SIr RIchard was a Cantonment magistrate in the fr?m 1 88 0 to 1885, afterwards occupying a similar ll1 Burma from that date until 1887, His work the war, the creation of the Cantonment and ;vIUnIClpaltty of Mandalay, From 189 [ to 1894 he was of the Rangoon Municipality, and a Port CommlsslOner, for that Port. He was also Superintendent of Convict Settlement at Port Blair, in which are 14,000 hfe. and convicts, and from 1894 to 1903 he was ChIef CommlsslOner, under the Indi an Government of the Andaman and N icobar Islands,

The existing Cantonment Law of Ind ia was framed for the Government of Indi a by Sir Richard, who also wrote the Andaman and Nicobar Volume of the Census Repo.rt of India for 1901, in addition to which he has to the new Gazetteer of India , Whde 10 IndIa, he took the warmest interest ll1. the Volunteer Forces of our great Dependency; he raIs e? ,and commanded the Upper Burma Volunteer Rifles the Mandalay Mounted Volunteers-members ?f whIch were present and took part in the rear-guard fight 111 the War of 1887-9, He also raised and commanded the various ur:its which comprised the Rangoon Port Defence whI,ch he commanded as a whole, the force consistll1g of A:tJll.ery, Engineers and Submarine Miners (Naval) Whde 111 Burma, he held for some time the appointment of Meteorological Officer; and he has been connected antiquarian in India for twenty-five years, havlOg been the EdItor of thp. Indian Allll'quary since 1883. This is the leading Oriental journal on such subjects, it:s still conducted by Sir Richard, who has been a wnter on Indi an and Oriental subjects for many years past, added to which he has contributed articles on the peoP.le, ,history, religious, folk-lore, &c" to the journals and pubhcatlOns of many learned societies. In 1884 he collaborated, with Mrs. Flora Annie Steele, on a book of Punjab folk-lore (wide awake stories) and with the late Dr. Fulton, in 1886, on a Dictionary of Hindustani. more might .be written on the literary attamments of SIr RIchard dId space permit.

measure, to the fact that those of its members who undertook office on ,its Exec,utive hav e aiways proved workers; men who, havlOg reahsed th e value of an ambula nce training, have never spared thems elves in pressing home its advantages to the community a t large, and those of our re.aders who have the pleasure of knowing him, will agree WIth us that the subject of our sketch this month is in no way be.hind pro;decessors in his aptitude for hard work, and hIS deSire to do all that lies within his power to encourage the principles of first aid teaching,

SIr RIchard Temple is the eldest son of the late Rt. Sir Richard Temple, Bart., G,CS.I., who was at one tIme Governor of Bombay, and, subsequently M,P., first for and afterwards for Kingston, an d who was also VIce-chairman of the London School Board for many years.

He was educated first at H arrow and then at !rinity Hall,. CaI?bridge, and joined the British Army ll1 .1 I, servlO g. ll1 the Royal Scots Fusiliers, In 1877 he JOll1ed the IndIan Army and served in the 1st Ghurkas his career since that date havin g been a varied one. served in the Afghan War 1878-79 and was mentioned in

He has been on the Council of the Royal Asiatic Society, Asiatic Society of Bengal, Folklore Societies, and the of Arts. ,He is a Fellow of the Royal Geological SOCIety and hRS contnbuted largely to the journalS of all. He was recently elected an Honorary Fellow of his College at Cam bridg?-Trinity Hall - a rare academic distinction of which he is justly and deservedly proud.

As a trav eller, Sir Richard has seen much of the world, his , travels including Indi a, Ceylon, Straits Settlements, Ch1l1a and Japan. He has also toured Australia, ew Zealand, Fiji and Honolulu. He has tracked along the western coast of America from Los Angelos to Vancouver; has been through the Rockies and across Canada to Quebec; has been in St. Paul and Minneapolis, at Chicago and Niagara; has journeyed from Montreal to New York and Washin gto n. His travels in Europe have included Turkey, the Balkan States, Greece and Dalmatia, and he has also found time to visit and see all that was of interest in the country which owes so much to our great countryman Lord Cromer-Egypt.

Sir Richard r etired from the public service with the rank of Lieut.-Colonel, in the Indian Army in the year 19 0 3, since which date he has been on the Council and Chapter of the Order of St. John of J erl usalem, holding also the position of Asst.-Director of the Ambulance

Photo Jy] [,}fault & Fox

-FIRST

Department and Deputy Chairmao of the S.J.A.A. He was mainly instrumental in bringing about the City of London Street Am bulance Service and the Military Home Hospitals Reserve.

In recognition of his public services to our Indian Empire Sir Richard was made a Commissioner of the Indian Empire (C.I.E). He is also a Knight of Grace of the Order of St. John, a J.P. and D.L. for the County of \V orcestershire, and is also Chairman of the Worcester County Association (Territorial Forces). His country seat is "The Nash," 'Worcester.

From this account, all too brief as it is, which we have been enabled to give of the public life of Sir Richard, and the great services he has rendered to his Sovereign and his country, our readers will, we are sure appreciat e his self-sacrifice in d evo tin g so much of his well earned period of rest, after his strenuous life, to the advancement of a cause which has for its obj ects the instruction of his fellow citizens in the great principles of succouring the sick and injured. Sir Richard, we know, takes the keenest interest in all that appertains to the work of the Order, and when he becomes better known to the members of the Brigade they will realise this, and he may rely on receiving a real hearty welcome at their hands at any time. The members of the St. John Ambulance Brigade are always proud to have associated with them in their work, those who have given of their best for King and country, it encourages them, and acts as an incentive to them to try, if only in a small way, to emulate those principles of British perseverance, which are so typical of the subject of our sketch.

Kind hearted, courteous, and with an entire absence of side; Sir Richard is a man who is bound to make friends and to hold their friendship when he has once secured it. He is a typical soldier and an English gentleman. We wish him many years of active life, for we are well assured that although on the retired list, Sir Richard will never "rust out." May we yet have many other opportunities of recounting the result of his labours un behalf of his countrymen, although the field of operations may lack the excitement which was so characteristic of his past career. Pro 7f tililate lzominZl71Z.

The City of London Corporation has agreed to pay Post-Master Gene:al an annual rental of £329 12S. 6d. m respect of a statIOn for electric ambulances The accommodation is sufficient for three vehicles and the charge for this appears to be unduly high. '

'3 e

In a printed reply circulated with Parliamentary papers on February 7th, Mr. Haldane has informed Mr. Crooks that it is proposed to appoint Surgeon-Leiut.-Col. (Hon. Surgeon-Colonel) P. B. Giles one of the medical officers of the 1st Hereford Rifle Volunteers, to the office of principal medlC3.1 officer of one of the London divisions of the Territorial Force. He is (adds Mr. Haldane) commandant of the Volunteer Am bulance School in London an Institution ,:hich has been most successful in a large proportion of the Volunteer medical officers. He resides near London, Seniority was not the determinincr factor in selecting officers for the appointments, but officers ?est to carry the work were chosen, seniority bemg gIven Its d.ue weIght. know of no more capable medIcal officer. for thiS appointment than Surgeonf:ol. GIles, and we heartIly congratulate both Col. Giles and the service on his appointme nt.

First Aid Competition.

WE now publish the second prize paper in the recent competition, and also give below the nom de plumes of the competitors whose papers were highly in their respective orders of merit :-" Invicta, " "Ribs," "Glossy," "C lwydian," "Humerus," "Edge Hill."

MR. C. R. CURRY'S PAPER.

Problem-

In a town, WIth no orgamsed first aid appliances, an electric car (workm an's) is overturned. The car contained 15 passengers of the artisan class, and the accident happened while descending a steep gradient, the overhead wires were brought down by the disaster, and fell amongst some of the people in the street. The principal injuries inflicted were, broken left leg, compound fracture of right thigh and fractured ribs. A number of persons received cuts from broken glass and others received internal injuries, while some were suffering from shock. The fall of the overhead live wires caused a panic in the cro;vded street and serious injuries to three people, and two persons were killed as a result of the car falling on them.

Give treatment of the various injuries and the most exyou would remove the injured to the hospital, which IS a mIle from where the accident occurred.

Ans'Wer-

I think the best way to describe Our treatment of this accident is to give it in the form of a personal narrative.

On hearing the crash I immediately rushed forward, seizing hold of a tramway point lad's iron switch bar as I passed him. On reaching the tram-pole next the accident I found the trolley wire hanging down to the ground. Placing one end of the captured point bar on the ground, I dropped the other over the fallen wire, thus shortcircuiting the current. Telling a man standing near on no to allow anyone to disturb .the iron, I ran on past the to. where the troll ey wire was drooping again. Borrowing. a stIck from a bystander, I wrapped a silk handkerchIef around the handle, and holding it thus I pushed th.e wire into an adjacent sewer grate top; pressing on the Wire I asked a bystander to hold the wire there by the aid of th: stick and silk. A.n intelligent butcher from a neighbOUring shop came runnmg forward with a wooden-handled chopper, around which was wrapped a dry towel. He immediately severed the copper trolley wire, thus completely cutting off the circuit.

After seeing tbis done I hastened forward to a man who was lying on the ground and had been touched by the fallen. wire. Lo<?senin g his clothing and braces, I pulled With his. handk.erchief over my fingers and tled It over hIS teeth With a piece of string placed over his tongue, carried under the point of the jaw, crossed and tied behind the neck. Pushing his hard felt hat under his shoulders, I commenced Silvester's method of artificial respiration.

By this time the people had re ga in ed confidence and began to close around. Asking one of the to open the man's shirt, I told him to take his scarf and rub briskly over the region of the heart. After a while the patient began to breathe regularly. Selecting four men from the crowd I told them to get a tradesman's barrow which I had noticed further down the street. On this we the man in a recumbent position, his lower legs hangmg over the end of the barrow, wrapped the men's coats over and around him, and sent him off

March, 1908

-FIRST

under the care of these men, telling them to inform the hospital authorities of the accident so th at they might prepare for further cases, also telling them to bring back any spare stretchers with them.

I then went forward to another group of people and found an ambulance man already performing artificial respiration on another victim of the wire. He remarked he did not know how to get the patient to the hospital. Looking around I noticed the ends of a short lamp lighter's ladder protruding above tIle heads of the people. Calling to the man carrying it he came forward; the patient, who was sufficiently recovered to be moved, was placed upon it, two coats having been laid on the ladder, two more coats were put over him, and the four owners of the coats lifted the ladder each taking a shank of it, and then moved off to the hospital.

The police by this time ,""ere fairly numerous and had the crowd under control. Telling the police I was a member of the S.J.A.B., I passed through the crowd to where

AI D.-

the patient steady. Another individual I asked to kneel at the feet of th e patient and to take hold of the right ankle and pull gently and steadily towards him.

A policeman who came forward had succeeded in wrenching from the car a piece of to make a long splint: Padding this long splint we It agamst the patIent's leg, extending from the right arm pit to beyond the right foot. We then put the short splint on the i?ner side of the leg from the fork of the legs to the "knee. We tied these splints as follows, two stnps of Imen, above and below the fracture around bot.h splints and , A policeman's belt around the long splmt and the pattent s hIPS, a scarl' from a workman near by, around the chest; a bait cloth tied round both splints and leg below the knee, two bait cloths tied together around both knees and splint, a lady's necktie tied around both ankles and splint and knotted on the sole of the left boot completed the fixing of the splints.

Seeing a sergeant of police passing, I asked him if he

By permiss ion of 1 [Tile CO/lllllercial .]{o{or.

The illustration above shows the War Office Ambulances which haye been made by the \Volseley Tool and !\Iotor Car Co., Ltd. Each body is fitted with two hinged falling seats capable of holding six sitting-up patients, another seat provided at the top of the 'bus for the nurse. The two stretchers, which are can g,o t:nder seats when not in use, and everything inside is so fitted that it can be taken out with great ease for !hlS has been carried to the extent that even the windows can be removed bodily and at once. The 1l1s1de IS of ,natura l wood, which can be washed with a minimum of exertion, and a maximum result in cleanliness. The outSIde IS paInted 111 dark War Office khaki, with the usual red cross.

the car was. In doing so a man touched me on the shoulder and said that although he was not an am bulance man he would do anything he could. I asked him to see if he could get any broad shutters or narrow doors; another man I asked to get linen or cotton for bandages, another to get some water, hot and colu, in basins or jugs. Luckily one or two of the police were ambulance men, and were already at work.

The first man I noticed had evidently a broken thigh; this could he seen frOtn the way th e foot was lying, and the perceptible shortening of the leg. We cut off the patient's boot, and in order to ascertain if there was any further damage ripped up the trousers at the stam, and it was lucky we did so, as there was the thigh bone protruding thlou gh the skin, a compound fracture. During the time I was bathing the injury with warm water, and placing and tieing a pad of clean linen dipped in "",arm water upon it, I asked a mun to kneel at the patient's head and keep

had made any arrangements for getting the injured th.e hospital. He said he had sent for cabs. I asked hIm If he could get hold of a flat cart or a bus He thought he could and sent one of his men to commandeer the first he could'see. My messenger had now arrived with a shutter and a door. Calling on some workmen who were handy, I placed the shutter at the head of the man with broken thigh and told these men to go to the Slde of the patient, one at the shoulders, the .hlpS and at the knees, I myself going to the mJured Side of the patIent. Telling the men to pass their hands ,Palms uppermost underneath the patient I joined hands wlth the centre man, and on the word lift, we lifted him slowly and gently on to the knees of the men. A policeman then passed the shutter under the patient and he was quietly lowered to it. Covering him with some clean sacks .obtamed from a shop, and putting one under his as a pIll?w, the four men lifted the shutter, two on each SIde, and WIth two

-'F'IRST

men as reliefs, went 0[[ with him to t1:1e hospital. After this man was dispatched I found two policemen and a St. John's man splinting up a case of fractured left leg. A stretcher having now arrived from the hospital, accompanied by my first squad, the patient was placed upon it and carried off by the men who bad brought it. A bus arrived on the scene and into it we placed five men. One of the men was unconscious, pallid in face, white lipped, breathing short and troubled, and the pulse exceedingly faint at the wrist, evidently a case of internal h ce morrhage. We loosened all tight clothing, laying him flat on the seat, raised his legs up by putting a box under his feet, winding some cloth spiral fashion around his arms and legs fairly tight. Another man was in a state of shock. 'Ve examined him as far as as we were able, but could find no external injuries. He was laid on the other seat, and covered with a blanket obtained from an adjoining house. A kindly housewife came forward with a hot-water bottle wrapped in flannel, this we placed against his stockinged feet.

The other occupants of the bus had been attended to for cuts, one being seated upon the floor with his back resting against the head of the bus, the other two being seated upon the seats, at the feet of the recumbent patients. An ambulance policeman mounted the steps, two other helpers got up beside the driver and they hurried off to the hospital.

After these had been sent away other persons who were suffering from shock and who had been treated, were placed in cabs, the two worst cases being laid immediately on to a shutter and a door, which were then placed angle ways across the cabs. These were sent off with an ambulance man in charge of each. other cases required treatment, one a man with broken ribs had been treated by having three turns of part of a bed sheet wrapped firmly around his chest, and his arm supported in a sling. The other two cases had received cuts, and after being treated were too shaky to walk. These two were placed on the cart with their backs to the frontboard, and the patient With the broken leg was then laid flat on the cart. A man them to the hospital. The wrecked car had by thiS tIme been partially raised and two men taken out from underneath. Th ey seemed past help, poor fellows, and a doctor who had arrived pronounced life extinct. The bodies were taken charge of by the police.

In the following letters of thanks, we may say how grattf1ed we are at the great interest which many of our readers have displayed in these competitions. We commend the letter of the winner of the second prize to those of our readers who have hitherto lacked the courage to enter :-

DEAR SIR,-I am very pleased at ha vi ng done what our frIends on the North-East ern .ca ll "catching the judge's eye." And I would tender to YC:JU, SIr, and to the judge my sincere tha.nks. YOL:, for promotlOg the competition, the character of whIch I conSIder far more instructive than any previous ones whi ch have been conducted by FIRST AID and to Colonel Gibbon, for undertaking a task which is not always an easy one to accomplish satisfactorily.

prize is a very neat, compact and thoroughly up-todate artlcl.e, and one that I shall value, buthope never to have any occasIOn to use 10 my home.

I heartily endor se wishes that the medical profession wIll come forward and aS51st you to continue the competitions. -Yours truly,

W. L. G IRLING, DIstrIct Secretary, L.B. & S.c. Railway Centre of the S.J.A.A. Brighton, Feb. 26th, 1908.

AI D.- March, 19 0 3. "

DEAR SIR,-I duly received your first aid case, as awarded or the se cond prize in the recent competition. I was much surprised to know I "vas second, as I entered the competition more to test my first aid knowledge, than with the thought of gaining any award. I think the question set was a test of practical common sense, for no matter how learned one may be in ambulance work, if you cannot apply your knowledge in a practical way, using the common articles of every day use, then first aid loses half its value.

Wishing your] ournal the success it deserves, and thanking you very heartily,-I am, Sir, Yours faithfully, G. R. Y, Sergt., N / C. Div. S.J.A.B. Gosforth, Feb. 25lh, 1908.

Coming Events.

Particlliars of fortlteomiJl g events will be iltSe rted ilt tltis COll1l1tl 1 free of clta7ge, if rece£ved not late?' tItan flte I4th of each mOllth.

Bnghouse.- The Annual Fire Brigade and Ambulance CompetItions, in connection with the Brighouse Friendly Societies and Trade Demonstration, will take place on June 13th next. Hon. Secretary, S. Widdop, 19, Thornhill-road, Rastrick.

Lessines.-The committee of the Belgium Federation has decided to hold their 19th Congress here, on the I Ith, 12th and 13th of July next, in conjunction with Namur. The Committee is very anxious to see a numher of English officers and firemen at this gathering. Special facilities are offered. Particulars of Mr. C. Kusel, 36, Newton-road, Westbourne-grove, London. W. LOU;;ht01Z.-1 he trial competitions for the Challenge Shields and Cup of the Eastern District of the N.F.B.U., will be held here on Bank Holiday, April 20th. Particulars of C.O. J. Woollard, Fire Station, Ilford, Essex.

Namur.- The 19th Congress of the Belgian Federation will be held here on June 6th, 7th, and next. I t is hoped that a good many English Firemen will attend.

Paris. -An international competition has been arranged by the Union de la Seine, to be held here at Whitsuntide. English sted.mer brigades are invited to take part. Particulars of Mr. C. Kusel, 36, Newton-road, Vol estbourne-grove, London.

Scarborougll.- The Camp and Competitions of the N.F.B.U. will be held here from July 10th to 17th. Further particulars from the Gen. Hon. Sec. Chief Officer Hill, Bedforel. -------.--.-----

On 4th the British Fire 'Prevention Committee conducted a further series of tests with first aid fire appliances of the Fire Extinguisher type, there being an extensive series of tests with two different types. There was a largp- attendance of mem bers, including officials representative of various pu blic departments concerned. One of the extinguishers was of the liquid type known as the" Accurate" Fire Extinguisher, the other of the powder type known as the" Diamond" Fire Extinguisher, the latter being p rimarily intended to deal with the extinguishing of small petrol fires. Official reports will be issued in due course. The special Sub-Committee in charge of these tests included Mr. Percy Collins, J.P. (Directing Member), Mr. Herbert Dyer and Mr. Horace Folker (Vice-Presidents, National Fire Brigades Union), Mr. James Sheppard (Insurance. Surveyor), Mr. Ellis Marsland (District Surveyor), and ChIef Officer Henderson.

Wh e n cor res po n din g wi th Advertisers plea s e mention " F irst Aid."

1908.

AI D - 135

THE LATE CHIEF OFFICER BANBURY, J.P. DEATH has been busy of late in the ranks of the National Fire Brigades Union. Another of its members has joined the great majority, and once again it is one who could but ill be spared, and whose loss will be sincerely mourned. To quote the General Hon. Secretary of the Union (C.O. A. Hill): "There wa,:; no better known and no more loved Chief in the fire service than Captain Banbury " John Banburywasaman who wanted knowing, for he was not prone to accept the friendship of any man until he had gauged his worth, once satisfied, however, as to his bona fides

The funeral, which took place on Saturday, February 29th, at Woodstock, was attended by a large number of the neighbouring fire brigades and the local division of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, and also by a number of fire brigade officers from other parts of the country. The Wuodstock Corporation, with the Duke of Marlborough, K.G., wearing his chain of office as Mayor, also attended, the deceased officer having been a much respected ber of the local governing body. Amongst the fire brigade officers present were: Hon. Capt. Dyer, 2nd Officer Marshallsay (Aldershot), Capt. Symonds (Oxford), Capt. Hill (Bedford), Capt. Mace (Chippmg Norton).

Forming up outside the deceased officer's residence, the cortege proceeded to Chapel, of which place of worship the deceased had been a prominent and zealous church worker. On entering the chapel His Grace the Duke of Marlborough placed a handsome wreath on the coffin. The floral tributes were numerous and exceedingly beautiful, and many of them bore written testimony to the love and regard felt for the deceased officer. The service here, which was exceedingly simple in character, was conducted by the Rev. J. Foulger and the Rev. W. E. Cousins (Oxford) Two hymns were sung, "Rock of Ages" and" Now the Labourer's Task is O'er." A short address was delivered by the Rev. J. Daun (Oxford), in which he paid a touching tribute to the earnest Christian character of Capt. Banbury, and pleaded for divine consolation for his grief stricken family.

The procession then reformed outside the chapel and proceeded to the cemetery. After the commital service the hymn" Jesus Lover of My Soul" was sung, and then the large crowd of mourners, took a last look at the coffin which c0l1tained the earthly remains of one of the best and truest hearts that ever beat beneath a fireman's tunic, turned sorrowfully away and left him sleeping "Until the day break."

IT is with deep regret that we have to announce the death of Mr. H. L. Bischoffsheim, the well-known philanthropist, who died at his house in South Audley-street on March 11th. Mr. Bischoffsheim, who was in his eightieth year, had been ill for nearly eighteen months. He will for ever be remembered by Londoners as the founder of the 1Ietropolitan Street Ambulance Service, which he maintained for many years. He also contributed largely to charitable institutions, and recently celebrated his gl)lden wedding by gi'ving .£ 100, 000 to chari ties.

THE LATE ALD. JORN BANBURY, J. P.

there was no truer friend to be met with. In the Council Chamber of the N.F.B. U his views were always put forward temperately and without any effort at oratorical effect, but they invariably carried and as a result the meeting generally supported hIS views. He was a born leader, for he had the ready tact to know how to lead rather than to aspire to drive. .'

In the little town of Woodstock he wIll be smcerely and regretably missed, for he was the friend of all, and his kind and sympathetic nature was alway.s ready t.o to the cry of genuine distress. To hIS sorrowmg wldow and family we offe r our sincerest sympathy. It should be some little consolation to them in this dark hour of trouble', to know that there are many outSIde their own immediate family circle who, having known their one ar:1 learned to appreciate his s t erling worth, are WIth them 10 this ho ur of sorrow.

He was of a singularly kind -hear ted and genial nature, and his death will be deeply regretted by a large circle of friends. We beg to tender our respectful sympathy to the members of his sorrowing family.

WE regret to announce the death of l1r. Chas. J. New, of Putney, which took place at his residence recently. i\1r. New was for many ye:us a member of the Cyclist Division 0: No I District, and was held in the highest esteem by all who knew him. In the cause of first aid he was enthusiastic, almost every public duty for years past being by him. He established a permanent am bu!an.ce statlon at the Putney Velodrome and raised a subsCrJp,tlOn the residents of Putney for the purpose of a lItter, whIch has proved of imm:nse benefit to the His loss to the Division to whIch he was attached IS meparable, as he had endeared himself to his comrades by his cheery nature and lovable disposition.

-FIRST Brevities.

THERE has been a feeling in some quarters that with the inauguration of the new Territorial Forces the Army Authorities would elect to dispense with the services of the members of the St. John Ambulance Brigade altogether, but such is evidently not the case. Speaking at an am bulance dinner at Ipswich, the other evening, Brigade Surgeon Lieut.-Colonel Elliston, in the course of his remarks, referring to the growth of the ambulance movement, added that he had been on ambulance yvork that afternoon, to Headquarters, in London, and he then proceeded to give the mem bers some useful hints as to a proposed new course towards the medallion, and also an outline of the arrangements in regard to the Home Hospital Reserve, which had been made between the Army Council and the Order of St. John of Jerusalem. This arrangement, said Col. Elliston, was not associated with the new Territorial Force; its object was to call upon the members of their Brigade to volunteer to take the place of the Regulars in times of National emergency. We do hope this spirit of uncertainty as regards the future may now considered as settled.

GENERAL BADEN POWELL inspected the Derby Battalion of the Boys Life Brigade and the Derby Division, S.J.A.B., and the Post Office Cadet Corps last month, and in addressing the various units afterwards, the gallant General said all who witnessed that parade must have been impressed with it. It had impressed him very much to see so many different branches and organisations doing good work among lads; it all pointed to the one tie of duty. We, as a nation, had risen to the head of affairs by our own merits and by the character of our forefathers. Those who had carried out the extension of our Empire, and had ruled our commercial relations with the rest of the world, had given us a name for absolute fairness and justice; but the moment we let ourselves slide away from that high standard we shall not deserve to be at the head of affairs, and what was more, we should not be. At the height of our prosperity we must not sit down with our hands folded and think that everything would be luxury with us for ever. Other people were trying to clim b to the same pinnacle, and if we were to maintain our position the rising generation must think of their duties, and strive to be as good men as their forefathers. He' was not pleading for soldiering or anything ot that sort, though he was often accused of it, but he desired to see the rising generation develop into good citizens. He wanted all citizens to be trained full of self-reliance, honesty and a stern sense of duty. Unless boys trained they must become hooligans, and so drift into the unemployed and unemployable. After alluding to life-saving in one or two directions, General Baden Powell said the motto of the boy scouts

AID. - March, 1908.

was "Be Prepared,"-prepared for anything which might arise, especially in the way of accidents. It so often happened that when an accident occurred, people lost their heads; they did not do the right thing at the right moment, and so a panic occurred. If a man was a hero in hot blood, how much more was the man who did something brave in cold blood a hero? In conclusion, General Baden Powell said that of the several organisations that were represented he had a sneaking preference for one, although he liked them all, because the members were doing their duty j but he liked the Life Savmg Brigade. It was a very fine thing for a man to improve himself and be good, but it was a far greater thing to do good.

* * *

SPEAKING to the cadets of the Hastings Volunteers on the occasion of a special Church parade, Mr. Harvey Du Cros, J.P., said :-" It was a great happiness to him to have had the privilege of inspecting them there that day, and now that he had made his inspection, that pleasure had been converted into pride. They appeared to him to be a smart, well set up body of healthy lads, who had derived manifest benefit from the instruction they had received, and he complimented them upon their bearing, which had all the characteristics to freedom which proclaimtd that , Britons never shall be slaves.' That day was the day which was specially set apart for the service of God. The first sentiment in the heart of man must be the love of God. The next sentiment in the heart of a people should be the love of country. In our glorious country the love of country was inseparable from the love of God, for England had been especially blessed in her mission to the cause of Ju5tice, Liberty, and Christianity to the whole world On Friday last a great thinker, and a great statesman, at one time Prime Minister of England, delivered the Union Jack under which they served to bodies of children in Edin burgh, and he carefully explained to those young people the significance of the Union Jack; but the point which interested them most was the account he gave of a journey he made from England to Australia, and he detailed that at every point of that journey, Gibraltar, Egypt, Colombo, and to the farthest extremity of Australia, there floated everywhere the Union Jack, and that wherever it floated it was, as he said, the emblem of liberty, justice, equal rights between man man and Christianity. Therefore in their gathering there that day they were professing their service to their gracious King, their country, and their- flag, all equally devoted to the service of their country, their empire and their God. There was a special fitness therefore in their gathering that day, and when they proceeded to church, their prayers to God would not be the less acceptable in that they were prepared to serve their country and the mission which God had entrusted to it."

* * *

IN pr esenting certificates to the successful ambulance

March, -FIRST students at Singapore, Major-General Perrott said, "The work they were engaged in was. a great and humanitarian work, and he was glad to have the opportunity of associating himself With it. They all knew the useful work whi ch the St. John Ambulance Brigade did during the South African war, when hundreds of poor fellows sacrificed their lives for the good of their country. Thousands of British soldiers during that struggle owed their lives to the care and attention exercised upon them by that noble army of ambulance men and women who volunteered for active service. What these self-sacrificing volunteers did for their country was beyond all praise. While they did not anticipate or look for trouble in the future, it was only right and proper that they should be prepared, and unless they had people who would be of untold value in the hospitals in case any trouble arose, they would be without one of the most important features in warfare He was more than pleased to know that 262 persons had registered their names with Colonel Johnston as being ready to come forward at the time of emergency."

The Order of the Hospital of St. John.

At the meeting of the Chapter-General of the Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem in England, held at St. John s Gate last month, it was reported that H. R. H. the Prince:;s of Walee; had graciously expressed her intention of presenting, at the Portm a n Rooms on May 15 th the Railway Challenge Shield awarded by the St. John Ambulance Association after the annual inter-railway ambulance competitions

This announcem e nt will we are sure be received with general satisfaction by the competing te ams of the sevelal railways, and will act as an additional stimulus to secure the premier place, and recei ve at the hands of this gracious lady the coveted" blue ribband" of the railway ambulance world. Although it is not so stated, we trust also that Her Royal Highness will on the same occasion hand to the winning team of the St. John Ambulance Brigade the handsome shield presented for annual competition in the year of the late Queen's Diamond Jubilee by Sir Thomas R. Dewar then Sheriff of London.

The Miners'

A FEW months ago the King, who, as everyone knows, is always deeply interested in deeds of heroism performed by his humbler subjects, noticed there was no medal existing which could be conferred on heroes of mines who at the risk of their own lives go to the rescue of their comrades entombed by the pit disasters which unhappily occur from time to time. His Majesty gave instructions that this omission was to be remedied by the striking of a special medal at the Royal Mint. This medal, of which we are able to give obverse and reverse pictures It is beautifully designed in silver, and attached to it is a dark blue ribbon with a yellow edge.

The two brave miners, Frederick Chandler, of Barnsley, and Henry Everson, of Hengold, South Wales, were the first two heroes to receive this medal at the hands of the King at Buckingham Palace.

Chandler has spent thirty-six years in the mines, and

AI D.-

is ageJ .anJ bent. In last he was in charge of a gang In the Holyland when a girder col.lapsed and tons of debns fell mto the workings. A bOller was damaged, and dense clouds of scalding steam were poured forth, and the terror of darkness was added to by the going out of all Two men were literally roasted, and. Chandler, In hiS gallant efforts at rescuing others, was hImself badly burned. Groping about in the

By cottrtl.',)'l [Daily Cr ap/lle. THE MINER MEDAL-O R\,ERSE AND RE VERSE YIE\\,S. dark, he managed to find one man and d.rag him !n.to.safety. He then took his life into his hands aga1O, and ]o1Omg the rescue party did all that c.ou:d be done.

Everson is a mechamc ll1 the Penallton CollIery: qn Septem ber I zth two other workers were a stagIng 10 the shaft guiding a huge barrel of water, whIch struck the staging and threw them into water forty feet below. The winding gear would not act,. and Everson went down the shaft clinging to a narrow pIpe and rescued one man. Tbe other perished.

WHEN OORRESPONDING WITH ADVERTISERS PLEASE MENTION "FIRST AID."

No. District (Metropolitan Corps.)

No. 38 DIVISION (VICTORIA, L.B.& S .S.c.R.).-:-On February 20th this division held its 7th annual dmner at Fumagalli's Restaurant, Wilton-road, S.W., Hon. Surgeon Collis-Hallowes presided, supported by Supt. Pape.

During his speech the Chairman said that the work done by the mem bers of the St. John Ambulance Brigade was much appreciated by the hospital surgeons dealing with cases which had passed through tbe bands of members.

Mr. Pape, in replying for the brigade, said bis only regret was that he had missed the previous six dinners of the division, and urged the members to make the same progress during this year as last.

A capital concert followed, wbicb was much apprecIated by tbe members of the division and their friends.

A vote of thanks was passed to Sergt. Packham for the admirable work be had done and was still doing for the division.

No. 2 District.

SOUTHAJ\IPTON.-The necessary money baving been subscribed the equipment of this division will be augmented before the end of this month by an ambulance carriage to carry three patients on stretchers.

The Corporation have kindly allowed it to be housed at the Central Fire Brigade Station and will horse it in addition, free of charge. The fire brigade being all medallion men will man it, and it will thus be available in reply to a telephone call at all hours of tbe day and night.

A nursing division is being formed 0n Marcb 24tb, with Miss Sangster as Lady Superintendent and Dr. Purvis as Hon. Surgeon. In all probability an ambulance division will be formed in the fire brigade later on.

No. 3 District.

IpSW1CH.-The kind-hearted and hospitable lady who is never tired of working and pleading for the Ambulance Cause entertained the members of the various divisions of the Ipswich Corps to a supper at the Ambulance Hall, on February 19th.

Miss Coulcher, herself occupied the chair, and was supported by Brigade Surgeon Lieut.-Colonel Elliston (Deputy Commissioner of the District), District Chief Supt. Brooks, District Supt. Secretary Gibb, Chief Surgeon S. 0. Eades, &c,

The toast of the King was proposed by Miss Coulcher and duly honoured, and after reading ::everal letters of apology from absentees), she (Miss CouIcher) gave a brief resume of the work in connection with their centre, in the course of which letters were read from Lord Knollys, on behalf of the King, from the Hon. Charlotte Knollys, on behalf of the Queen, and from the Equerry to the Prince of Wales, all expressing the interest whicb the members of

AI D.- March, 1908.

the Royal Family were taking in this old and important centre, and wisbing it increased success.

Tbe toast of the Brigade was proposed by Lieut.-Col. Hoyland, and responded to by Colonel Elliston and Dr. Brooks.

Other toasts were" The Ipswich Centre and the Transport 'Work," " The Medical Staff," and" Our Hostess," the latter toast being received witb unstinted applause, testifying to tbe affectionate regard in which Miss Coulcher is beld. Musical honours were enthusiastically given-the old refrain being somewhat slightly altered-" For she's a jolly good lady."

Miss Coulcher briefly responded, and then started the musical part of the program me with a pianoforte solo. Dr. Brooks, Dr. Hoyland, Miss Luder and others also contributed to the harmony of the evening.

No. 4 District.

RADcLIFFE.- The annual dance in connection with this division took place in the Drill Hall on February 22nd, when a large number of th':! members and their friends attended.

In the course of tbe evening able addresses on the importance of ambulance work and the progress it was making in the district, were delivered by Mr. Wm. Bowker, who presided, and Mr. Leonard Mills, who also presented certificates and medallions to the successful students, and subsequently, on behalf of the ambulance and nursing divisiuns, presented Hon. Surgeon Scarr with a travelling rug and a case of pipes.

Hon. Surgeon Scarr suitably responded, and before resuming his seat presented Supt. Entwistle, on behalf of the ambulance and nursing divisions, two enlarged photographs, one of the members of the nursing division, the other that of the members of the ambulance division.

Supt. Entwistle, in responding, expressed his surprise and gratification at the gift, which he should always value. Ambulance work would have his sympathy, and all his spare time would be devoted to its advancement.

Lady Supt. Miss Openshaw, in a charming little speech, proposed a vote of thanks to Mr. Mills for attending to make the presentations, and to Mr. Bowker for presiding.

Both gentlemen suitably acknowledged the compliment.

During the evening kindly reference was made to the splendid services which have been rendered to the ambulance cause by Col. Mellor, and the wish was expressed that he might long be spared to continue unabated his interest not only in ambulance work but in the town affairs generally.

No. 6 District.

The annual returns for 1907 record I, I70 officers, men and nursing sisters in the district.

Supt. Hickey (Gateshead Division) and Supt. John Bruce (Grinkle Mines Division) have resigned their appointments.

If sufficient names are sent in to the Deputy Commissioner before April 1st a camp will be held for four or seven days on the Government ground, near Whitby Bay, on the north-east coast. Secretaries should note this reminder.

The annual Brigade competitions, whir:h are in the hands of Dr. Modlin (Sunderland), will commence forthwitb.

District Supt. Sec. C. J. Sutherland, M.D., has been

March, 190 8. -FIRST

appointed a Knight of Grace, and Hon. Surgeon Robert Anderson, Gateshead, an Honorary Associate of the Order, in recognition of their services.

A church parade is being arranged to take place in Newcastle-on-Tyne at an early date.

Active preparations are being made for the Royal Agricultural Show, and the visit of His :Majesty the King and the Prince and Princess of Wales to the north in June.

The Hull inspections are fixed for the 26th, 27th and 28th June, and combined inspections will take place in Sunderland, South Shields and Newcastle-on-Tyne, and also at the Camp at Whitby Bay.

The Service Medal has been granted to Private Thomas Gilliatt, Central Division, Hull Corps.

A new nursing division has been formed at Sunderland and others are in course of formation at Spennymoor.

GATESHEAD.-We have always had a warm feeling for this north country di vision, for it was founded and fostered in its infancy by one of the truest and most kind-hearted of ambulance men-Mr. John Adolphus Harrison-and we trust that the good work will always flourish here, both on account of its utility and also as a memorial to his kindly generous nature.

On February 26th a concert was given at the Town Hall in aid of the funds of the division.

There was a large and appreciative audience who thoroughly enjoyed the several items on the programme. General regret was expressed at the absence of Mrs. C. B. Palmer, wife of the popular District Supt. of Stores, who had promised to sing two solos, but was prevented owing to the death of a relative. Hon. Surg. Anderson, in apologising for Mrs. Palmer's absence, which he said they all regretted, stated that she had kindly sent a cheque towards the funds, and had also secured the services of a substitute-Miss Youngson-whose mandoline solos were much appreciated. The selections hy the Gatesbead Orchestral Society were deservedly well apl>lauded, as also were the glees and part songs by the Newcastle Glee and Madrigal Society, whilst Miss Olive Patrick was enthusiastically encored for the two solos she contributed to the programme.

The whole of the arrangements were in the capable bands of Messrs. J. B. Hardy, T. Wilkinson and E. Wilson, and it is anticipated that after paying all expenses the sum of something like £30 will be added to the fund.

HULL.-The members of the Central Division of the above Corps beld a very successful social evening on Wednesday, February 26th, at their headquarters, which bad been prettily decorated. About 116 members and friends were present, and Chief Supt. M. Hopper presided, supported by Supt. Sec. J. O. Vaughan, Supt. Krause (Eastern Division), Lady Supt. Mrs. Krause (Central Nursing .Division), Hon. Surgeon R. P Ash and Supt. W. T. AtklDson (Central Division). The first part of the programme consisted of a concert.

Miss Hill and Miss Alvin opened the proceedings with a pianoforte duet; Miss C. Brindle whistled two solos, both of which called forth encores; Miss Violet Frank also gave two mandoline solos. The vocalists were Miss E. Barker, Mr. J. J. Hollingsworth and Mr. J. Wright. The Bro.thers Escott and Mr. A. Brownlee presented humorous ltems which were much appreciated by the crowded audience. Miss A. C. Shaw acted as accompanist.

One of the chief items of the evening W3.S the first appearance of the Central Division Prize (?) Band, under the able conductors hip of Bandmaster Gilliatt. The instru ments were composed of gramaphone, bells and cardboard

Al D.- 139

imitations of brass instruments. Their first appearance was a great success, and the Hon. Surgeon, when proposing a vote of thanks to them" said that in the future he should consider it his duty when called upon to attend any case of infectious disease, not only report the same to the medical officer of the city, but also to inform the bandmaster, who could then send either some, or all, the members of his band, as he was convinced that no respectable germ would or could remain within bearing of such music.

During the interval service badges were presented to Sergt. Hoggarth, Corp I. Clark, Ptes. Rhodes, Gilliatt, Purdon and Shaw by Lady Supt. Mrs. Krause. Chief Supt. Hopper handed to Supt. Atkinson his officers warrant, remarking as he did so the pleasure it gave him. It should be mentioned that Supt. Atkinson joined the Division I years ago as a private he has advanced by successive promotion through every rank to the position he now holds.

A hearty vote of thanks to all who had assisted in any way to make the evening such a success brought the concert to a close. Parlour games were afterwardS taken part in until 11.3° a. m , when all joined hands and sang " Auld Lang Syne."

G. W. R.-The sectional ambulance competItion (Birmingham District) was held at Snow-hill Station on March 6th. Seven teams entered, and the result was as follows:First, Snow-hill (No. I) team, 270 marks. Second, Snowhill (No.2) team, 250. Tbird, Stonebridge, 223. Fourth, Leamington, 2 I 2. Fifth, Bordesley Junction, 204. Sixth, Hockley Grove, 195. Seventh, Halesowen, 189. In the individual competition Messrs. F. S. Bolton; C. H. Overbury and S. W. Wilkes, all mem bers of the (N o. I) Snowhill team tied with 38 marks each. Dr. J. M. Carvell was judge.

L. & N. W. R.- Tbe London and Wolverton District of this Company held its inter-competition at Everton, on March 4th, when Colonel Lees Hal1 (Deputy Commissioner No. I District S.J.A.B.), and Hon. Surgeon R. J. Roberts acted as judges. Twelve teams took part in the competition and the following was the result. Wolverton (B) team, 216 points; Wolverton (A) team, 214 Camden (A) team, 208; Camden (B) team, 197 Bletchley team, 187; Broad-street (A) team, I74 Euston, 169; Watford, I6,S; Broad-street (B) team, Hayden-square, 157 ; Poplar, I 39 Willesden, 135· Wolverton (B) team will compete in the. final at New Bnghton, Liverpool, on March 25th. The pnzes were presen;ed by Mr. J. Bishop, Secretary of the London &. North II estern Railway Ambulance Centre. The first prIze for the best all round man in the district was secured by l'vIr. O. Toll, of the Wolverton (A) team.

N.E.R.-The success of the c:..mbulance class conducted in connection with the North Eastern Railway Co.'s Accountant's Department was demonstrated recently,

-FIRST

when medallions and certificates were presented by Mr. R. T. Swinburn (Accountant), at the Crow's Nest Assembly Rooms, Newcastle. Mr. T. K. Dobson presided. Amongst those present were Mr. J. Keith, chairman, and Mr. W. Holding, Secretary Newcastle district.

Mr. Swinburn expressed the pleasure it afforded hIm to perform the duty allotted to him. A year ago he had urged the importance of an increase in the number of their am bulance students, and he was very pleased to learn that his appeal had not been in vain,

Mr. Swinburn presented medallions and certificates to the followillg :-Medallions- J. B. Graham, W. W. Gillinder, e. H. Joy, J. E. Kent, A. Petrie, W. E. Tailford, and A. E. Gibson. Second Year Certificates--J. Bates, N. Gaudie, J. A. Eskdale, G. N. Temple. First Year Certificates-J os. Brown, H. Dales, B. Everett, H. Turner and G. Rutherford.

Mr. J os. Brown on behalf of the mem bel's of the class presented to Dr. Madfadeyn a fountain pen, and to Mr. J. Keith a spirit flask, in recognition of services rendered.

During the evening an excellent programme of songs, &c., was rendered by Messrs. T. W. Anderson, Geo. Philip, R Anderson, G. H. Brown, E. A. Abraham, R R Dent, H. Dent, W. Austin Clare, G. Johnson, F, W. Dewhirst, J. W. Wood, W. H. Bewley and others.

The general arrangements in connection with the successful and enjoyable gathering were carried out out by Mr. Alf. E. Gibson, hon. secretary. Mr. J. Johnson was accompanist.

On the 12th ult. the Tweedmouth Class held their annual smoking concert at the Union Hotel, when Ald. Marshall presided, supported by the Sheriff of Berwick, Mr. Horsley (Station Master), Messrs. Jackson (General Secretary), H ol1i ngs (D istrict Secretary), White (Class Secretary), Dr. W, B. Mackay, etc. The Alderman presented the certificates, etc" gained at the recent examination. Mr. Dodds handed to Dr. Mackay two books -" Surgical Diagnosis" and "Insomnia and Its Therapeutics "-as a token of their appreciation of his services as lecturer, and the Doctor handed to Mr. J. Elliott (Class Instructor) a handsome gold mounted umbrella, Gladstone bag, and two bronze ornaments in recognition of his faithful services as drill instructor. Mr. Jackson and Mr. Hollings gave a short of the work as carried on by the N.E.R Centre, and some capital songs, etc., were rendered.

On the 22nd ult. the Park Lane (Gateshead) Class held their second annual dinoer at the Royal Hotel, Gateshead, when, in the absence of Mr. J. Keith, through the illness of his wife, Mr. Geo. Forsyth (Yardmaster) presided, and was supported by Dr. Robinson, Mr. Bell (Chief Foreman), Mr. Thackwray (Loco. Dept.), Mr- Geo. Jackson (General Secretary), Mr. W. Hollings (District Secretary), Mr. Ritzer,la (Class Secretary), and others. After a substantial dinner had been negotiated, some capital songs, recitations, etc., were rendered. Short speeches were made by Messrs. Jackson, Hollings, Bell and Forsyth, and the Doctor, and a most enjoyable evening was spent.

On the 22nd ult. the Crosmont Class had their certificates, etc., presented to them in the Church Schools, by Mr. A. Gladstone, who also handed to Dr. W. G. Draper a handsome silver mounted umbrella, and to Mr. Thompson (Class Secretary) a silver mounted p:pe and case, for his services as secretary. After the presentation the York Station Ambulance Team gave a display of competition work, for which they were heartily thanked, and the wish

A I D.- 'March, 1908.

was expressed that they might have the pleasure of seemg them again.

S.E. & C. R-The Ambulance Competitions on this railway are now in full swing, and we are pleased to note that there is again a large increase in the num ber of teams competing. This year 78 teams have signified their intention of competing in the group competitions, an increase of 13 over last year. Four years ago there were only 25 teams competing, and the progress made speaks well for the popularity of the system in force on this railway.

It is to the beginners that we have to look for results in the future, and it is gratifiying to know that everything is being done to encourage first year men to take further interest in the work.

On the 5th iost. a very interesting and instructive lecture was given at Ashford by Dr. R. D. Muir, of New Cross, on "Mistakes made by am bulance men." A gathering of three hundred mem bers of the staff attended, and a very profitable evening was spent.

" CIarnico" Fire and Ambulance Corps.

THE ninth annual Dinner of this, admittedly one of the smartest private fire brigades in the United Kingdom, was held in the hall adjoining the works of Messrs. Clark, Nicholls & Coombs, Hackney Wick, on February, 22nd. Capt. G. Horn presided, al1d was supported amongst others \:)y Col. Fox (London Salvage Corps), Second Officer Gamble, and Lieut. Sladen (London Fire Brigade); Surgeon-Major Maitland Coffin, Chief officers Dyson and Millar, Major Graham, Major Flanders, the Mayors of Poplar and Hackney, and Messrs. Alec Horn and J. Matthison, Second Officers Simpson and Third Officer Sorrel. "Good wine needs no bush." Whatever the n Clarnico " do tbey endeavour to do well, and as usual the dinner was no exception to this admirable trait, it was excellent, and full and ample justice was done to it by the " Clamico " members and their guests,

After the cloth was cleared a brief toast list, interspersed witb a capital musical programme, was gone through, and there was also an admirable selection of bioscope pictures shown. The toast list included the "London Fire Brigade," and in responding, Second Officer Gamble referred to the excellent services rendered to the London Brigade by the Private Brigades of the Metropolis. He also congratulated the "Clarnico" Brigade on its smartness and efficiency Lieut.-Col. Fox, in one of his characteristically humorous speeches, returned thanks to the toast of the " London Salvage Corps," and said as.a representative of that body, he felt bonoured at being asked to present the prizes to the competitors in the annual brigade competitions.

We have received a r epor t of the presentation of certificates and medallions by Lady Perrott to the members of the Southampton Centre of the S.J.A.A. on March 2nd. Owing to the pressure on our space this issue we regret we are unable to record this interesting event. However, we may mention that opportunity was taken on this occaSIOn to present to Col. Twiss a vellum vote of thanks awarded to him by the Cbapter-General of the Order in recognition of the valuable services he has rendered to the work of the am bulance department of the Ordp.r.

March, 1908 -FIRST

A I D.(Mid. District), Penrhiweuber (South Wales). Col. W. Wallace, eM.G., was elected an annual subscriber.

In moving the adoption of the annual report and balance sheet, e.0. Dyer referred to the satisfactory state of the Union, intimating that there had been an increa3e of some 30 brigades during the past year, and they had extended the sphere of their labours. and had registered brigades in Ireland. Both the annual report and balance sheet were adopted.

National Fire Brigades Union.

The annual general meeting was held at the Holborn Restaurant, London, on March 11th, Hon. Capt. Dyer presiding over a large and representative gathering. Amongst those present were: Mr. H, S. Folker, e.0. H. Miller, Capt. G, Horn, e.0. Graham, e.0. T. W. Clulee, Col. Fox, 2nd Officer H. G. Marshallsay, e.0. S. E. Mace, e.0, Hedley Peters, Chief Surgeon Maitland Coffin, Hon. C 0, T. Dyson, and Mr. e. Kusel.

Prior to the business on the agenda being proceeded with, the Chairman said he regretted that it was his painful duty to move that a vote of condolence be sent by the

e.0. e. D. Levy moved that Rule 59 be altered as follows :-" That the accounts of the Union shall be audited by an incorporated accountant." Seconded by e.0. Bell c1l1d carried.

It was moved that the following addition should be made to Rule I r :-"No person shall be entitled to wear the uniform of the Union unless he is a bona fide working member of a brigade affiliated to the Union, and ready for d L.. ty, or an honorary officer or fi reman. 0 shall be an honorary officer or fireman of any brigade affillated to the Union unless he has actually filled such rank respectively in some such brigade [or a period of not less than 5 years."

Capt. H. S. Folker mOVEd that this should be referred back to the General Purposes Committee. Capt. Henderson seconded, and it was carried,

OFFICERS :AND NON-CO,\Il\IlSSlON

Union to the widow and children of the late Capt. Banbury.

e.0. Dyer referred to the admirable service rendered to the Union since 18 97 by their late esteemed comrade, and the noble example which he had set to its members.

e.0. R. G. Graham seconded the motion, which was passed in silence, the whole of the meeting upstanding.

e.0. Dyson proposed, and Col. Fox seconded, that a vote of condolence be conveyed to the widow and orphans of the late e.0. Dittman, of the Bremen Fire Brigade; this was passed in silence, the members upstandin g The Han. General Secretary baving read the minutes of the previous meeting, these were confirmed an? signed by the Chairman and subsequ ent ly the followmg new brigades were elec'ted :-Mere (Southern District\, Caversha m U.D.C. (South-Mid. District), Chillington Tool Co.

OFFICERS BRIGADE.

It was deCided that the hon. treasurer and bon. secretary of a district, whether holding position of chief officer in a brigade or not, entltled t.o vote matters coming before the Dlstnct C?uncil or Dlstr.lct Meeting. The Chairman of every me.etmg connected With the Union shall have a second or castmg vote.

On the proposition of e.0. it was to strike out the words" chief surgeon" m Rule 23, llne 7, e.O. Hedley Peters submitted that a vote oftbanks be accorded to Dr. Ettles for the excellent services he had rendered to the Union. Surgeon-Major Maitland-Coffin seconded this, and the motion was carried

His Grace the Duke of Marlborough was unanImously re-elected as Preside:1t, and Hon. e.0. J. Dyer, Lieut.-Col. Fox, Edwin O. Sachs. Esq., Hon. e.0. T. Dyson, e.0. Henderson, J.P., and H, S. Folker, Esq., were re-elected

-FIRST

Vice-Presidents, and W. P. Trench, Esq., was re-elected Hon. Treasurer.

A vote of thanks was accorded the Hon. Auditors, Messrs. Bonner and Wickenden for their past services, and a vote of thanks to the Chairman brought the meeting to a close.

ANNUAL DINNER.-The Duke of Marlborough presided at the annual banquet, which followed the annual meetina of the Union at the Holborn Restaurant on March b II tho There were some ISO persons present mcludmg Capt. Hamilton, R.N., Lieut.-Col. Fox, e.O. R. W. Henderson, e.O. J. Dyer, Mr. Guy Pym, Mr. S. G. Gamb)e, Mr. e. H. Brown, Mr. H. S. Folker and e.O. A. Hill.

The toast of the evening, " The National Fire Brigade Union," was proposed by Mr. Guy Pym, who in the course of his remarks, said that the Union was now entering upon its 21st year, and it was gratifying to see the extensive growth it had made since its inception. He thought it was a service which des e rved the confidence of the public, as the Union had carried out all the duties it had undertaken He coupled with the toast the name of His Grace the Duke of Marlborough. The Duke of Marlborough on rising to respond, was received with enthusiasm.

On reading their annual report, he said it was pleasing to him to note the prosperity and increase in the strength of the Union. That progress demonstrated the fact that the skill, capacity, and knowledge displayed by the mem bers would continue to impress the public with the value and utility of the Union, it had made the country realise that it was a great organisation, and had done a great work in preventing the loss of property, not to mention the probable loss of life.

Through the instrumentality of Mr. Guy Pym, he continueJ, Mr. J. Burns had introduced into Parliament a measure which, had it been passed, would have given more scope to fire brigades

Referring to the widows' and orphans' fund in connection with the Union, his Grace congratulated Captain Graham on conceiving the happy idea of " burning down" the Red Lion Hotel, near Hampton Court, prior to its being pulled down, and of having cinematograph pictures taken of the firemen at work It was intended that these pictures should be exhibited at music and other halls throughout the country, and a certain portion of the proceeds would be devoted to the widows' and orphans fund. He was assured that on the basis this would produce between £500 and £ 1,000 in the next two or three years for the benefit of the fund. In addition, it would provide a'1 admirable object-lesson to the British public.

His Grace referred to the changes which had taken place in the Union during the past year; they had lost by death several of their best comrades, and there had also been a change in the organisation. Mr. Folker had resigned the hon. secretaryship and his place was now filled by e.0. Hill.

In conclusion, his Grace mentioned that the annual camp would be held this year at Scarborough, and it was his intention to be present.

The toast of the visitors W.lS proposed by e.O. J. Dyer, and was responded to by Lieut. Wiemer (Berlin) and Councillor Fletcher (Scarborough). A musical programme under the direction of Mr. S. Harvey was given during the evening.

WIDOW S AND ORPHANS' BENEVOLENT FUND.-The annl!al meeting is connection with this department of the Union preceded the Annual General Meeting. Capt. R. G. Graham, presided.

A I D.- March, I 908.

The minutes of the previous meeting having been read and confirmed, e.O. H. Miller moved th e adoption of the balance sheet, and this was carried.

In the course of his opening remarks e.O. R. Graham made an earnest appeal to brigades for more support, intimating that it was only by their enterprise that this fund could be successfully carried on.

It was reported that e.O. R. G. Graham and e.O. B. T. Gales had been elected to represent the Central Council.

e.O. Graham was re-elected Chairman on the proposition of e.O. Miller, seconded by Hon. e.O. Dyer, and a vote of thanks was accorded to him for the excellent services he had rendered to the fund; it was also mentioned that through the instrumentality and on the initiative of e.O. Graham, a biosocope entertainment would tour the United Kingdom, and that 10 per cent of the gross profits would be allocated to the Widows' and Orphans' Fund.

e.O. W. L. Bradley and Mr. B. Richard Isaac were re-elected to serve on the Committee of Management.

e.O. Hill was elected Hon. Secret!lry.

The meeting closed with the usual vote to the Chairman for pre5iding.

The twentieth annual Report of the Union shows continued progress in all departments, and Chief Officer Hill must be warmly congratulated on the success which has attended his first year of office. Fitting reference is made in the Report to the loss which the Union has sustained by the death of some of its most able advocates. Generous and just also is the tribute which is paid to the past services of the late Hon. Gen. Sec. (Mr. Horace Folker), as the report truly says, "the heartfelt thanks of every member of the Union are due to the man who lived and worked for it and who now has the proud knowledge that he achieved the success he sought that of seeing the N.F.B. U. recognised by the nation at large as the undisputed representative body of the Fire Service of England."

Reference is also made to the valuable services rendered to the Ambulance Department by Chief Surgeon Russell, Chief Officer Ettles, and Second Officer Poncerot, and regret is expressed at their resignation. Allusion is made to the heroic work on the part of Dr. Ettles in preparing the squads sent out for ambulance work during the South African war.

EASTERN DISTRICT.-The ambulance report of this district which appears above the signature of the Hon. District Surgeon is not of a gratifying character. There seems to be but a lukewarm interest taken in amb ulanc e work. This is to be regretted, and it is a poor compliment to the popular and energetic Hon. District Surgeon. Dr. Greene appeals to Chief Officers for a higher and more efficient training of firemen, and we trust that his appeal will not be in vain.

Just as we are going to press we learn that arrangements are being made to hold an International Competition at one of the French Channel watering places during August next.

We regret that by an error the illustrations of Professor Schafer's articles in our last issue were wrongly worded, the top one should have read "Expiration," and the lower "Inspiration," instead of Inspiration and Expiration.

March, 1908 -FIRST

A I D.- 143

I also notice that you comment in a footnote that in your opinion it savours too much of the" lay practitioner."

The post-card, of which I understand yo u had a sample, had the words "first aid" and "assistance" made more prominent by larger type, and it was also expressly stated thereon" before the arrival of the doctor."

<:l4J> £':::J

We are in no way responsible jor the opinions expressed, or the statements made, by Correspondents.-EDIToRs.

PROPOSED CHURCH PARADE AT BROMLEY, KENT.

DEAR SIR -Perm is sion has been granted me by Headquarters to organise a Church Parade for Divisions South of the at St. Luke's Church, Bromley Common, Ke,nt, at 3 p.m., on Sunday, July 1908. The sermon WIll be preached by the Re v Telgnmouth Shore, M.A., Canon of Worcester and Chaplain-in-Ordinary to H.M. the King.

Teawillbeprovlded after Divine Service, closetothe Church. I hope Officers in charge of Divisions will note the date, as I want a large number of men to attend, and I will send out invitations nearer the time.

Thanking you in anticipation for inserting this in your next issue.-Yours very truly, J. H. YOLLAND.

Bromley, March 6th, 1908

IPSWICH AMBULANCE HEADQUARTERS.

DEAR SIR,-I have seen and read in your February issue the letter from Mr. Cuckow, also your footnote.

You are perfectly correct in your supposit,lOn, Impression and belief. The title deeds of the above are m the name of the Ipswich Centre of the St. John Ambulance Association; but that does not necessarily permit the inference the Ipswich Corps is without The dIfferent divisions of the corps use the bUlldlllgs for dnlls, lectures, &c., although they do not handle the parchment.-Yours fa ithfully, \V1\I. KEEBLE. Transport Supt. for the Association. 46, Upper Orwell-street, Ipswich.

March 2nd, 1908

DEAR SIR,-In a way you are right, but _ we kn?w no difference between Association and Bngade m IpswIch Centre and Corps. This you will see from th e er:closed The corps uses the hall whenever it wishes, whIch IS practically daily.- Yours truly, MARY C. COULCHER. Beecholme, Ipswich.

February 27th, 1908.

[We have pleasure in the above two letters. It will be noticed- that both MISS Coulcher and Mr. Keeble admit that in the main our contention was correct, and we certainly think It was. Our statement had to corps or divisions possessing their own as In case of Bury, Radcliffe, etc. Ipswich we admit IS as well placed; inasmuch as they have and privileges of part ownership in conjunctIOn With the Centre and in a town where centre and corp work in this arrangement is !he best the district. We hope our Ipswich, fnends ,dId not that by making the statement we we , Intended III any to minimise the good work whIch IS bemg done there, nothmg was further from our thoughts; we have much respect for, and too high an appreciation of the splendId work whIch has beeQ done by the hon. secretary of the centre for so many years past.-ED. " F. A. "J

FIRST AID NAME PLATES.

SIR -I notice 1st Officer Moffat's letter in the February issue of FIRST AID, and as Supt. of the Division I feel it my duty to support the idea conveyed m 1m letter.

Surely no individual can mistake the spirit exhibited in a card bearing such distinctive proofs that a person with only a first aid knowledge would be sent when required, and that the individual in question must further secure the sen' ices of his medical adviser.

N ow as regards the objection raised by you, I am able to state that I kr:ow of several instances during my term of office where a doctor would never have been summoned to the cas e had it nJt been for the presence of an ambulance man who persisted in his persuasions for the summoning of a medical man. Surely this being only an example, shows that the average "first aider" helps rather than supplants the practitioner.

trust you will give my letter fairplay, as I can testify to the real spirit in which cards are issued, and in fact we have always re ceived noth ing but praise from our local medical profession for the loyal help we as first aid men have always given them-e xac tly the opposite feelin g to that suggested by you.- YOl}rs truly,

F. H.

Supt. S.J.A.B., Gippeswyk Division. I pswich, March 7th, 1908.

[We always desire to deal fairly with the views expressed by correspondents, although we may not at all times agree with them. Supt. Gooderham therefore need have had no apprehension that his letter \voule not have fair play at our hanJs. We think Mr. Gooderham s letter rather supports our v Iews against these cards He says he knows of several instances where a doctor would not have been summoned but for the presence of the ambulance man. That looks very much as though the ambulance man had been called in by. the patient's friends, instead of,the doctor. Of course, any minded ambulance man might be expected to correctly adVIse in such a case but that does not prove that these cards are desirable. We should like to have the opinions of some of our medical readers.-E D. " F.A."J

NAMUR.-C.O. H. Miller, 3 officers and 8 men will attend the annual Congress of the Belgium Federation to be held in this town at Whitsuntide. e.O. Dyson has been elected by the Belgium Committee to act on the Int e rnational Jury. Officers wishing to tearr:s and participate in this Congress should commUnlcate WIth Mr. e. Kusel, 36, Newton-road, Westbourne Grove, London, 'V.

Where to stay at ScarborouQh durinQ the Camp Week.

TH E GRAN 0 HOTEL is the finest and large on the To rth-East Coast, directly overlooking the Bay, and adjoining}he Spa. 350 rooms. The only Hotel in Scarborough with Hot and Cold Sea ,Yater (a lways ready) in Bathrooms. Band performs tw ice daily during Season. Tariff II. MUNRO JOHNSTON, Nat. Tel.: No. I, Scarbro'. Manager " ST. ALMA" (Sou nr CLIFF)

First-Class Boarding Establishment. Over 30 Bedrooms. Billiard and Sm oking Rooms. Terms, from 65. 6d. per day. J. COPELAND, Pro-pr£etor.

Resc ue App aratu s for

The ONLY one of BRITISH MAKE on the MARKE T

The ONE GOOD SION ON WIINES (See C omllliss z"on's R epo rt.)

FLEUSS - SIEBE=GORMAN AplJ&ratus is the ONLY on t h e Market that received UNIFORWIL V WIAR KS from the R OYAL CO WI WIIS -

Makers also of OXYGEN REVIVING TRUNKS, SMOKE HELMETS, RESPIRATORS, &c. CATALOGUES and FULL PAR.TICULAR.S FnEE on application to SIEBE CORMAN & Co. Ltd. 187, Westminster Bridge Rd. , , " LONDON§ S.C. Tt:lephone: Hop 2SI. T e legrams: "Siebe London. "

FIRST AID - ON LAND. Fifth Ed ition. Revised, with new plates. Cl oth, 4s . A MANUAL OF AMBULANCE.

By J. SCOTT RIDDELL, lI1.Y.O., C.M., M.B., 1II.A"

Senior Surgeon and Lecturer on Clinical Surgery, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary; Examiner in Clinical Surgery to the Uni\'ersity of Edinburgh : E:xaminer to the St Andr"w's .'mbulance Association, Glasgo\\', alld the St. John Ambulance Association, London. "A capital book The directions are short and clear, and testify to the hand of an able surgeon. "-Hdin. -'fed. jourllal.

FIRST AID - AT SEA.

Third Edition, Revised. In Handsome Cloth, 65. A MEDICAL AND SURCICAL HELP FOR A"n OFFICEI1S 1:-1 THE NA\'Y, INCLUDING

FIRST AID TO THE JURED.

By WAI JOH NS O:\'

Consult ing Surgeon to t·he Seamen's HospitaL and to the Branch (Seamen's) Hospital, Royal Albert Docks. " \Ve recommend the work to every Shipmaster and Officer."-Live>jJool j ottrJlal of COIIIIJle1-ce

lONDON : CHARLES GRIFFIN & CO LIMITED, EXETER STREET : STRAND

l US T PUB LI S II ED Crown 8\'0 Wi th Port rait.

I'uhli-hed at S/-, post free 4 /-

Seventh Edition, Revised :and Enlarged. With Add it ional Ill ust ra ti on s P ost 8vo, 2S. net

FIRST AID TO THE INJU RE D.

Six Ambulance Lectures.

By Dr FRIEDRICH ESMARCH. T ra n slated from t h e Ge rma n by H.R H PRINCESS CHRISTIAN.

The School711.asler : - "Ar yo?e a nx ious to gain k no wl edge m the a r t of relIevmg pam or pass]b ly of sav in g life, ca nn ot d o bett er than stu dy t h ese inte res ting and instruCt ve pages London : SM IT H, ELDER & CO. , IS, WATERLOO P LACE S. W

Policy No. 600,093.

£100

"FIRST AlD." Free I:n..sura.:n..ce

The Ocean Accident and Guarantee Corporation, Ltd (Empowered by Spec ial Act 0 1 Parliament.)

Principal Office: 36 to 44, Moorgate Street, London, E C

This must not be detached

£100

WILL be p aid by THE O CEAN ACC IDENT AND

G UA R A NT EE CO R PO RATI O N, LI M ITE D PR IN-

To

As it is th e wi sh an d d esire of h e P rop ri eto rs to make this J o urn a l as in stru cti ve a nd en te rt a inin g as possib e, co rresp ond ent s in a ll o f h e co untry are a sk ed to give a ll the h el p they ca n. Supe rin endent s of Co rps an d O ffi ce rs of Di visions o f h.e St. J oh n Amb ulan ce Bri gade , O ffi ce rs of th e R oyal Arm y M ed Ical Co rps (Vo luntee rs ) the V ol untee r Ambulanc e S ch ool of In stru cti on, a n d

Chief O ffi cers of Fir e Briga d es will it s ho pe d, d o th eir b es to ma k e it kno wn a mongs th e m em be rs of their res pective organi sati on s, a nd will a lso send fo r pu b li cat ion the ir offi cial n e ws and notices Suggest tions a re in vi te d fo r Prize Com pet it io ns a nd oth e r mat ter s whi ch will adva nce the in te rest of h e ] a u m a l.

We pa r cula rl y des ire to ask o ur co rres pond en ts o be brief a nd to the point in a ny co mmuni cati ons th ey may se nd us fo r pu b li cati on Co rr es p ond ent s se ndin g in ph o os a re urge ntly r eq uested to state on the u ack of th e same h e n a me of th e individ ual or th e Corps o r B ri gade a nd give a lso th e name and addre ss of he sender.

W e b eg to advise o ur r ea d ers th at we d o not pay for photog raph s or copy sent, un ess p revio us y ag ree d upon in w ritin g

ED ITORI A L .

REMINISCENCES IN

THE LIFE OF Surgeon=Major George A. Hutton, L a te R ifle Brigade (The Prince Consort's Own) H onora ry O rgan izin g Commissione r, 5 1. J oh n Am b ul ance Associati on. W th a n I ntroduction by R. LAWTON ROBERTS, M.D., J.P. L ecturer and Exami ner of the 5t. J ohn Amb ul ance Asso cia ti on

H. K L EWI S 136, GOWER S T R E E T W e. (.A1ld of all Booksellers.)

AMBULANCE BOOKS AT GREAT REDUCTIONS ! NEW

B O O K S at 25 per c ent. Di scount. A ll kinds of M edi ca l a n d other B ooks s upplie d S ent o n a pp r oval. Cata lo g ue s fr ee. Bo oks pur chase d .-W. & G F O YLE, 135 Ch a rin g C ro ss -ro a d , L o n do n, w .e.

WHEN CORRESPONDING WITH ADVERT I SE R S PLEASE MENTION ., FIRST AID."

CI PAL OFFICE , N os 36 to 44 M OORGATE STREET, E.e., to h e lega pe rsona l r eprese nt at ive 0 1 the bona }ide ho lder of this Coupon- Insur a n ce- Ti cket f the ho lde r s ha ll be kill ed or fata ll y injured by a n acciden t wi th in th e Un i te d or Channe to any.Railway Company's passenge rtra l?- m whI ch the ho lde r IS trave ll mg as a ti ck e t-b eari ng o r fa repay mg passenge r Provided that the above undertaking is subject to the following special conditions, which are of the essence of the contract, viz, :(a) death res ul t. within thirty afte r the acc iden t; ( b) th at the holder shall, prior to t.he aCCiden t, have wntt en (or her) us ual signa ture in ink in the space prOV ided un.derneath; (c) t.ha t not ice of the a:ciden t he given to the Corporat,lOn at ItS PnnClpa l In London wlt.hin fourtee n days aft er its occurrence; «0 med ica l cerll ti cates and other In for mati on be furn ished by perso n claimIng.upon reques t for the same hy the Corpora ti on; and (e) tha t thiS app lI es only to persons over twelve and under seventy years of age, IS lI mited to one Coupon·Insu rance·Ticket for anyone ho lder, and ho lds good for the curren t mon th of Iss ue only.

This In sur an ce en itles t h e h olde r to the b enefit of, and is subj ec t t o! t? e con dition s of ,t,he ." Ocean A ccid ent a nd Gu ara nt ee Co mpa ny , LImited A c t, 1 8 90, R Isk s N os 2 a nd 3, wh en th ey are n ot incompat ib le with th e spec a l co nd i on s above sta ed.

TI,e possession o fltis Co upon- ! ns2wa nce- is a dmitted to be the p ay m ent

a p1-e11l1um under Sec 33 of t he A ct A Prznt 0./ the A ct

" First Aid" i s p u blished on t h e 20th o f the mont h F i re Protec t ion in S chool s

H APPILY in this country we have had no such calamity, m anyone of our ele mentary schools, as that which occurred at Cleveland, Ohio, on March 4th; indeed, it is claimed that our sys te m of school fir e drill is of so perfect a character, that such a panic as that which led u p to this disaster is well nigh impossible. But in this outbreak, if all accounts are true, no system of fir e dnll would have succeeded in avertin g the terrible calamity which ensued. The School House, which was a building of three storeys high , cons tructed on the usual American methods, was provided with but two exits only, both of which we re on the ground floor, and accord ing to the evide nce to hand on e of these wa s so congested with lu mbe r, consisting of spare forms and chairs which were packed against it, that it was practically us eless The narrow width of the stairs and passages leading to this exit, and the doors of the class rooms which, in the majority of cas es, opened inwards, lik e wise prevented free exit when the stampede towards safety ensued Heroic efforts were made by members o f the staff to save the lives of their pupi ls, wi th the r es ult th a t severa l of the teachers perishe d

m the flames in their fruitl ess e nd eavours to rescu e their charges, and the total loss of life is estimated to have been a bout 170 p ersons. Truly a te rribl e dea th roll. Of course, it may be argued that all this happ e ned in Ameri ca, where it is well known that the laws relating to building constru ction, are not so exacting as those r equired by the author ities in this country, and this is no doubt tru e, but at the sa me time so terrible a cal a mity, e ven th o ugh it ma y ha ve occurred in another contin e nt, should ac t as an inc entive to our own school authorities t o make d ou bly sur e, th a t the methods to be adopted in case of fire in th e schools , within their own area, are of such a ch a racte r a s to pr eclude the possibility of a nything approaching so g revi o us a cal a mity. Fire drill is undoubt edly a most n ecess a ry trainin g a mongst the scholars in our publi c element ary schools , but at the same time we think th a t me thods sh o uld be adop ted in every school for promptly d ealin g with a n out bre a k in its incipient stage Most of th ese sch o ols a re in ch a rge of a caretaker, and this individu a l sh ould , esp ecia ll y in th e case of large towns, be, if possibl e, a n ex- fir e ma n, or some oth e r person possessin g a knowl edge of fire extinction Provision should also be mad e for pl acin g ha nd pumps or ex tinct e urs, in places readily acc essi bl e to th e va rious cl ass -roo ms. It is exacted, in the case of our theatres a nd o th er pu blic places of amusement, that som e such pr ovisi o n sh ould be made, if, it is n ecessary in th e case of an audience of p eople, which invariably consists of grown up persons, how much more necessary is it in the case of those of tender age To our mind th e ma le teachers should also be instructed in fire drill , und er the chief officer of the local fir e bri ga de, and th e lo cal go verning body which would lead the way in this direction would des erv e the thanks of the commun i ty at large. We trust th a t it may never be our misfortune to have to chronicl e in this country, so terrible a disast e r as that which has be fallen our An glo-Saxon kinsm e n across the "pond," but in order to guard against its possibility no methods should be left untried which it is well within our power to ma ke.

ST. DENI S, P ARI S - C.O Laurenc.e Bradl ey wil l.take over a team to comp e te in th e CompetltlO.ns, arrang ed by the Uni o n d e la Se me, to held Whitsuntide, we also understand hIS team WI gIve a d isplay drill, similar to the one WhICh he conduct ed so successfully at Milan and Bru.ges last year.

The Vascular System.*

THE following article is a remme of a lecture given to the members of the Gippeswyk Division, St. John Ambulance Brigade, at the" People's Hall," Stoke, Ipswich, by their hon. surgeon (E. J. R. Bartlett, M.RC.S., L.RC.P. London) on February 13th last.

The lecture, which was illustrated by original sketches specially drawn for the occasion, gives several interesting points which are very often overlooked by other doctors when lecturing on the heart and circulation of the blood, so it is here reproduced for the benefit of ambulance workers in general.

.By the ." Sy.stem " is meant the beart, lungs, artenes, capllianes and vems. All organs connected with the circulation of the blood.

The heart is a hollow muscular organ divided by a longitudinal septum into two parts, right and left sides. Each of these sides are again subdivided into two cavities, upper and. lower, tenned respectively right auricle and right ventncle, and left auricle and left ventricle.

The. right left sides of the heart do not directly commumcate with each other, but the upper cham ber or auricle communicates with the lower chamber or ventricle on .its side, openings known as the aunculo-ventncular openmgs. These openings are guarded by valves, namely, the tricuspid on the right and the mitral on the left.

These valves. are open to blood passing from the auncle the ventncle, 1;>ut closed to blood attempting to pass In an upward directIOn from ventricle to auricle. The process of circulation commences with impure blood from the body entering the right auricle of the heart by means of the superior and inferior vena cava. From the right auricle it passes into the right ventricle to be forced to the lungs, the pulmonary artery, for purification, its return prevented by the closing of the semilunar valves situated at the outlet of the ventricle.

Here the blood comes into contact with air extracting oxygen. and, parting with harmful gases: thereby being pUrIfied. In this healthy state the blood returns to the left auricle by the pulmonary veins, as pure .blood. The. now filled left auricle contracts, squeezIng Its contents Into the left ventricle the mitral valve dosing, forbidding its return. The left' ventricle then in turn forcing. its contents into the already filled aorta causIng the elastiC walls to swell out its return into the ventricle being prevented by the of the semilunar valves placed at the outlet of the ventricle. From thence, it is passed on the general circulation to supply all tbe organs and tissues of the body. All arteries With o?e exception (pulmonary artery) convey pure scarlet blood the system of circulation, whilst all veins with one exceptIOn (puln:onary veins) convey impure or blue blood.

The IS the main arterial channel, leading from the left ventr.lcle down the and abdominal cavity.

l.tS. whole. course It IS constantly giving off side bra.ncbes, at ItS lower end into two main branches, whIcb agam off branches for the supply of the lower. extremities. In early part it is very elastic, and thus much distended every time the ventricle emptIes Itself.

All the brancbes of the aorta again divide and subdivide

* We are indebted to the kindness of Mr. A. 11. W. Moffat, r s t Officer of the Gippeswyk Di\ ision S.J.A. B. for the '-8W11le of this lecture.

AI D.- April, 1908.

into smaller and smaller arteries which form a complete system of small arteries throughout the body. These small arteries, known as arterioles, end in a fine network of arterial capillaries, which by union with one another form a complete meshwork or anastomosis of minute vessels.

This meshwork communicates with a similar meshwork of venous capillaries, these in turn collecting into minute collecting again into larger veins, the largest vems beIng called the vena cava, superior and inferior which are the tributaries of all the other veins. veins, as aforesaid, discharge their contents into the right auricle. By the time the smaller arteries have reached the arterioles their walls have become muscular in construction. An arteriole thus has a narrow calibre and a powerful muscular action.

The nervous system, acting upon this muscle, is able to bring about contraction or relaxation, and thus the calibre of these small vessels is made larger or smaller. Now, it will be seen that the elastic aorta distended by a charge of blood from the ventricle can recoil with greater ease when the calibre of these: small arterioles is increased whilst on the other hand much more resistance is offered when the muscle of the arterioles is contracted, and so the calibre lessened. Upon this depends the pressure of the blood. The blood having passed these minute arterioles enters the channels in the capillary network. These minute vessels allowing of the exudation of nutriment for the tissues in that area.

The structure of the walls of veins differs much from that of arteries. Here muscular action and elastic recoil is not required, and the walls of the veins have but little of these structures.

The blood in the veins is not pumped back to the htart as is the blood from the heart into the arteries but finds its way back steadily as the result of slight behind it, suction action in front of it, and the contraction of the outside muscles of the body between which the veins lie. Thus, when a vein is severed, the blood flows from it but does not spurt in a stream, as when an artery is cut.

All bl00d vessels have a thin lining or membrane called the which, if it is once injured, causes the blood In that vessel to immediately clot. This lining, so long as it remains uninjured, will not allow the blood to coagulate.

. The ?lood consists of a straw-coloured fluid containing solId portions known as corpuscles, of which there are two main varieties, the red and the white. The red are the absorbers and carriers of oxygen. The white act as scavengers, offering resistance to invading organisms.

The pulse is the result of a wave of contraction travelling along the blood vessels, its rate v.Hying with rate of the heart's beat, its fulness with the resistance required to overcome the resistance at the

The pulse is usually felt at the wrist in the radial artery, this vessel being conveniently situated.

SITTINGBOURNE.-Chief Officer Hedley Peters is to be congratulated on his report of the year's work of the local Fire Brigade. A good Chief invariably ensures a good and Brigade, and there is no Brigade better served in this respect than Sittingbourne Active and enthusias tic with an aptitude for hard work, with the pen or fire gear, he is the right man to inspire confidence in those working under him, and we can only hope that Sittingbourne may l ong have the services of its popular Fire Chief Officer.

April, 1908 -FIRST Our Portrait Gallery.

SURGEON-MAJOR CASPAR R. LAURIE, M.Res., L.RC.P., &c. ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER No. 2 DISTRICT S.J.A.B.

THE su bject of our sketch in this month's Portrait Gallery was educated first at a private school in England, proceeding su bstquently to a public school in Germany, to finisb his training for a mercantile career.

In 1875, having secured the post of assistant manager to a tea plantation, Surgeon-Major Laurie, at the age of

AI D.- 147

the value that the doctor places upon this most important subject.

In 1892 Surgeon-Major Laurie took steps to form a division of St. John Ambulance Brigade, it was not, however, registered at headquarters until October in the following year, when he was appointed Honorary Surgeon and Superintendent. In 1899, in consequence of the " growth of the Sout.hern portion of the No. 2 District, Surgeon-Major Laune was asked to accept "_the position of Assistant-Commissionerand, consenting todo so, his appointment received the sanction and confirmation of H.RH. the Grand Prior of the Order. In the discharge of the important duties appertaining to this appointment, he has been most indefatiguable, and mainly through his efforts promising Divisions have been formed at St. Ives, Ludgvan, Cam borne, &c., and other divisions are now in course of formation, amongst other places, at Falmouth, Porthleven, and Truro. The annual inspection of the several units of the Brigade in this part of the District is invariably undertaken by Surgeon-Major Laurie, who is a keen and critical inspecting officer.

Our readers will have gathered from this brief account that the doctor is an enthusiast in all that appertains to first aid teaching, and it is in a great measure due to that, coupled with his pluck and perseverance, that he has so successfully brought ambulance matters so prominently to the front in this district. Prior to the formation of the Redruth Division, such an appliance as a stretcher, litter or other comfortable conveyance for the transport of the sick or injured was practically non-existent. The district being a mining centre it will readily be realised how necessary some such provision was, for there has been many serious accidents in the mines and quarries. Since 19 0 5, however, with the advent of a thoroughly up-to -date ambulance carriage, 811 this is now changed, and the medical men in the district, as well as the general public, have learned to appreciate and recognise the urgent necessity for a service, which at first they were inclined to regard as a fad. if not an altogether unnecessary innov8.tion.

nineteen, went out to Cachar, in N. E. Bengal, where he had many opportunities of indulging in that favourite pastime of all Britishers-big game shooting. Four years later on, however, in 1879, the state of his health was such that he was invalided home.

In the following year, on his return to England, he entered as a student the medical school at St. Bartholomew's Hospital, and after a course of study there obtained the diplomas of M.R.C.S., L.RC.P. and L.S.A., in 188 4.

On quitting the hospital, Surgeon -Major Laurie commenced practice in Essex, in which county he gave several courses of first aid, these, however, were not held under the auspices of the St. John Am bulance Association. In 18 90, realising that the climate did not suit his health he decided to take up practice on the South Coast, and accordingly proceeded to Redruth, in Cornwall, where he has since continued to reside.

Firmly convinced as to the value of first aid instruction, he at once commenced lecturing, this time under the auspieces of the Association, and he has since given two, and sometimes three courses of lectures in each year, covering a period of about eighteen years, a record which proves

The Surgeon-Major has for many years taken an active interest in the volunteer medical service, joining the 1St V.B. Devon and Cornwall Light Infantry as Surgeon-Lieut. in 1892; he was promoted Surgeon-Captain in 18 95, and Surgeon-Major in 1904. He is most anxious that a feeling of good comradeship should at all times exist between all branches of ambulance work, and it is mainly due to his personality that most of the mem bers, belonging to the Redruth, Cam borne and St. Ives Divisions of the Brigade, have joined the Military Home Hospitals Reserve. .'

In conclusion, it may truthfully be said that the active interest now displayed in ambulance matters generally in this district, is mainly due to the unselfish labours and devotion to the cause which is so characteristic of the subject of our sketch. Surgeon-Major Caspar Laurie is one of those men you instinctively take a liking to, and the more you know of him, the greater grows your regard and esteem for him, hence it will be readily understood that he is deservedly popular amongst all classes. The Order of St. John in 1899 marked their appreciation ?f the valuable services rendered to the Order, and ItS Ambulanc Department, by Surgeon - Major lal!rie electing him an Honorary ASSOCiate, and In thIS year, on the recommendation the Chapter. General, H.RH. the Grand Prior, WIth the sanctlOn and approval of his Majesty the King, the Sovereign H ead and Patron of the Order, conferred upon him the dignity of a Knight of Grace.

-FIRST

Rescue Training School.

THIS School, which has been established at Howe Bridge, near Atherton, by the Lancashire and Cheshire Coalowners' Association, was on the 2nd inst. the scene of a series of tests of apparatus designed for the use of rescuers in colliery disasters. The School is fitted with an imitation coal mine gallery. Round three sides of the hall runs what looks at first sight to be a large aquarium. It has a continuous plate glass front, and on peering through this one observes rock work, shored up by pit timbers, leaving" workings" from three to four feet in height, here rising and there falling in level, as they do in coal mines. There are two of these "workings," one situated behind the other, forming a pair of roughly made tunnels on the switchback principle, but as one dips where the other rises, and vice-versa, both can be seen by those on the outside of the glass front.

It is proposed to form a trained rescue brigade for each colliery in the district, and to connect all or most of the collieries in the district with the School by telephone, so that, in the event of a disaster, an alarm may be communicated all round and trained help called up.

On the occasion when the tests were given the hall was darkened. Behind the screen could be seen men in what appeared to be divers suits, and dimly vIsIble to the outsIde spectators by the light of the safety lamps carried. The first impression was that they looked lIke some strange fish, the element in which they were apparently immersed having the appearance, through the glass, of muddy water. It was in reality a dense, unbreathable atmosphere, which had been rendered so by voluminous fumes o.f sulphur. It was a strange, almost uncanny scene, as wItnessed by those outside the glass, assem bled to watch the experimt:nts.

One of the teams which took part in the test included the three Normanton men who participated in the attempt to rescue at the recent Hamstead disaster. Two men also who exhibited the working of the "Draeger," and who belonged to the Tankersley Rescue Brigade had rendered efficient service at Hamstead. Before en'tering the" workings" each competitor was medically examined as to. his and fitness to undergo the test, and as a speCIal precautlOn, several medical men were in attendance the whole of the time in case any of the competitors should be overcome.

The doctors who examined the competitors and remained on duty were Dr. Arnold J. Greene, of Wigan ; Dr.. J of St. Helens; Dr. Mair, Manchester U.l1lverslty; and Marsh, of Atherton. After each of air were taken from the inspiration tube, Imt?edlatelyabove the breathing bag, and tested for CO . ThiS work was undertaken jointly by Professor Dixon and Dr. Coward.

During the time that the men were in the gallery were closely watched by the members of the Commlt.tee, who were acting as judges, with a view to noting their under the several tests. Consideration was to the following points. Weight of apparatus ItS capac.lty,. an.d. durability, liability to ment whIle m of construction, &c., also as regards .the reqUl!ed for charging the apparatus a which IS well mgh of as much importance as that relatmg to the breathing apparatus proper' points were. awarded under t?e following heads :-Cost of mach,inery, upkeep, facIhties for collieries, simplicity compactness. '

Having donned their outfits, each tea.ru walked six

AI D.- April, 1908.

times up and down the length of the hall. This was presumed to represent the distance from the bottom of the pit shaft to the supposed scene of the disaster. They then entered the galleries, and in accordance with the conditions of the test they had to travel twice over the whole road, going by one gallery and coming back by the other. At the further point from that which they had entered lay a dummy miner, presumedly unconscious, and weighted to over twelve stClne. They had to convey a stretcher through the first gallery to the spot where lay the victim, and having placed the patient upon it, convey him back to the starting point.

Both in going and coming back, various obstacles had t<? be surm(;>unted. Falls of roof had to be cleared away, a pile of bricks loaded on a coal "tub" and removed, dangerous places in the "workings" retimbered, and apparatus used in the ventilation of the mine adjusted. It was exhausting work, and there was a strange fascination in watching how these men fought their way yard by yard through all the varied difficulties they encountered especially laborious was the work entailed by the removai of the dummy on the stretcher.

The following firms entp.red for the competition :-

Mr. W. E. Garforth (Altofts Colliery, Normanton), " \Veg."

Messrs. Henry Simonis & Co. (Norfolk House, Norfolk-street, Strand, W. C.), "Aero lith."

Messrs. Siebe, Gorman & Co., Ltd. (Neptune Works, London, E.C.), "Fleuss."

Mr. Richard Jacobson, (II, Water-lane, E.c.), " Draeger."

Messrs. Clarke, Steavenson, & Co., Ltd. (Hoyland Common, near Barnsley), "Shamrock."

The Valor Company, Ltd. (Rocky Lane Aston Cross, Birmingham), "New Era." ,

The first team to compete was one trained by Mr. Garforth, ar:d was with apparatus, the "Weg." The breathmg mouthpiece of thIS apparatus is of limited capacity and size, and in it is ensured a rapid exchange of exhaled breath for fresh air and oxygen, mica valves being placed on the inhalation and exhalation tubes, which pass over the head to the generating apparatus. The exhaled breath is impelled by lung action and valve adjustment to traverse a pipe running as a crest over the helmet to a flexi.ble pipe communicating with a. metal purifying box, carned on a saddle on the back. ThIS box contains caustic alkalies, absorb the carbon dioxide from the lungs and permit the flow of unused ?xgen and nitrogen to a dorsel breathIng bag. From here Its atmosphere is returned by a flexible pipe, and a second pipe, on the crest of the helmet, to the mouthpiece, in which it is mixed with fresh, pure oxygen supplied by a separate pipe from the oxygen cylinders. On this occasion on account of the nature of the atmosphere goggles had to be used, but these are as a rule under actual working condmons. It IS fitted WIth a gas pressure-gauge indicating the quantity of oxygen, the cylinders, a telephone for messages, and electric lamps. The apparatus is manufactured by Mr. Garforth in his own workshops, and has not yet been manufactured on a corr.mercial basis.

The team, with one exception, remained in the gallery the (ull two hours performing with apparent ease the various tasks assigned, they had, however, some little difficulty with the patent st.retcher. One found it necessary to leave the gallery five m1l1utes before the expiration of the allotted time, owing to a loose nut at the expira tion tube. He appeared, however, in no way distressed.

The" Aerolith" apparatus in the invention of Herr

April, 19 08

Suess, who was present with Mr. Otto Simonis to witness the tests. This apparatus, which has already been described in FIRST Am, utilises the principle of liquid air for evaporating into 700 or 800 times its own volume ot breathable air. In this test the four competing came from the neighbouring collieries of Messrs. Fletcher, Burrows & Co., had only been trained in the use of the apparat us three days prior to the competition, and therefore were scarcely conversant with its use under the conditions laid down for the tests. In the event two of the men had to leave the gallery before thirty minutes had passed, and they were shortly afterwards followed by t!te other two. The" Fleuss " apparatus, the principle of which is the absorption of the by means of an alkali, and the enrichment of the purified air by compressed oxygen-the same principle which underlies the" Weg," "Draeger" and " Shamrock" appliances. On the score of weight it has some advantage over these, the weight, charged, being slightly over 30 Ibs. The apparatus is provided with mask or half mask. At Howe Bridge, however, the competitors used mouthpieces, noseclips and goggles. Two of the competitors were experienced in the use of such appliances, but had not had acquaintance with work below ground. One of their number, however, a young medical student, who had also been a mining student, had undertaken to superintend the operations, such as setting props, &c. He had only worn the apparatus on three previous occasions and was a trifle nervous at the outset. After remaining in the gallery for about twenty minutes, he had to come out, giving as his reason that he had been unable to form a closed joint about the mouthpiece. Another man took his place with the same apparatus. After remaining in the workings for just over an hour and three quarters, during which they exhibited skill and dexterity, one of their number had to come out, his oxygen supply having given out. It was stated it had not been fully charged at the outset. The other men remained their full time in the gallery.

The "Draeger" apparatus is the one that is in general use at the Tankersley Station. In this apparatus the oxygen cylinders are fitted with a reducing valve set to de1i\'er a constant supply of 2 litres per minute through an injector, which draws the expired air through patent cartridges, containing caustic potash on baffle trays and a cooler. The whole of the apparatus, with the exception of the breathing bag, which is formed in two divisions, is situated on the back.

The team consisted of two men only, consequently the tasks had to be somewhat modified. They were performed by the men easily and skilfully, the full two hours being spent in the" workings." The test may be regarded in every way as successful.

On Saturday the same two men demonstrated with the " Shamrock" apparatus. In this as in the" Draeger," the motive force for the circulation within the apparatus is afforded not by the respiratory movements, but by the oxygen delivered through an ejector. With this machine, however, both cylind =rs must be used simultaneously. The apparatus is supplied both with helmet and mouthpiece, and the men were equipped, one with either form. The apparatus was, however, severely handicapped, inasmuch as it had been despatcheri. direct from the works, and neither man had any practical experience of its use ThIS led to some little delay at the start. After several little minor omissions and defects had been remedied, the men got to work and remained in the gallery the full two hours, so that the trial may be regarded as on the whole successful. The makers exhibited also a stretcher of an ingenious design, equipped with an oxygen reviving apparatus. This

AID.-

ingenious arrangement is equipped with a mechanical device for impelling oxygen through the mouth of an unconscious man and drawing off the carbon dioxide from the lungs. This is a factor of great importance, as by its use one is able to proceed with the resuscitation of the injured man during the journey from the "workings."

The final proceeJings were brief. The apparatus to be tried was the" New Era." It has been used, and we believe, with success, in com bating fires above ground, but it is not suited in its present form for dealing with the more subtle and dangerous conditions of conflagrations ground. Only one of the four men had had any previous experience of colliery work, and the whole team found it impossible to remain in the workings, as the mouthpiece wa" not proof against the admission of sulphur dioxide.

During part of the tests, Mr. H. H. S. Cunynghame, Permanent Under Secretary of State for the Home Department, and a member of the Commission, was present and evinced a keen interest in all the proceedings. Dr. Haldane had been expected but was detained by a prior engagement. Luncheon was provided each day by Messrs. Fletcher, Burrows & Co.

Speaking on Saturday at the luncheon, the Chairman said it had been rumoured that one of the men taking part in the tests on the first day became unconscious, and remained so for twenty-five minutes. The story was absolutely untrue, one man abandoned the test because the mouthpiece of his apparatus did not fit him, but he only rested for a mmute or two until the smoke got out of his mouth. Not one of the men who had competed was any the worse for what he had gone through.

Dr. Greene also denied the rumour, and, in reply to a question, said "No one has had to be brought round."

The Chairman said all the trials up to the present had been most successful. He thanked Messrs. Fletcher, Burrows & Co. for their great kindness. He hoped that both coalowners and mining engineers would co-operate in their endeavours to save life, and that which was now being done in Lancashire would be adopted in other parts of Great Britain.

Mr. Burrows thanked the Chairman for his kind remarks and said that while he had been struck with the wonderful degree of perfection which had been reached in these life saving appliances, still he felt it was better to take every precaution beforehand rather than trust to efficient remedies afterwards. He urged all those present to look round the several collieries with which they had to do and see if all necessary methods had been adopted .for the prevention of accidents. He allude? ,to the great Importance of checking near the pIt s mouth at the inception. Prompt actIOn 111 the few. seconds was more effective than the efforts of the Fire Bngade half-anhour afterwards. His own firm had appliances for fire extinction, and men were practised in their use every month. The cost of installation was more than made up by the immunity from danger which was secured. Only recently a fire broke out and was promptly by the fireman and engineman alone, and before senous damage was done. That paid for the apparatus.

A vote of thanks was accorded to Mr. Charles Pilkington for the valuable he had to the Committee. [n acknowledgmg the compltment Mr. Pilkington expressed his indebtedness to the members of the Committee for the way they had aSSIsted him.

An advertisement in this Journal is the cheapest traveller you can have.

Reviews.

LESSONS IN DISINFECTION AND SANITATION.

By F. W Anurews, M.A., M.D., F.R.C.P. Lond., D.P.H. Can tab. , &c.

WE have received from the publishers a copy of this valuable little book, the outcome of a course of lectures and practical work given by the author to the nursing staff of St. Bartholomew's Hospital. That the work has met with approval is evidenced by the fact that a second edition has been necessary. Although written in the first instance for the benefit of members of the nursing profession, nledical practitioners will find it a handy volume of reference, as it gives in a small compass a simple and intelligible description of all the most salient points connected wi th the study and theories of disinfection, the chapters dealing with bacteriology being especially interesting.

To those members of the new Territorial force who may be intending to take up seryice in the proposed Sanitary Corps, thiS book should prove decidedly welcome, as from it they will be able to derive a practical knowledge of all that appertains to that branch of medical science with which they will be called upon to deal.

I t is illustrated with numerous diagrams, and is published at 3s. 6d., by Messrs. J. & A. Churchill, l7, Great Marlboroughstreet, London.

SUPPLEMENTARY FIRST AID TO MINERS.

By William B. Arthur, L.R.C.P., L.R.C.S., &c.

THIS little book is, as its title implies, a book written more espec.ially for those in the mining industry, and as such It should prove of Immense value to those engaged in it. In preface the author disclaims any idea of supplanting the vanous well-known standard works on first aid, claiming for the result of his own labours Lthat it is written as an adjunct to manuals on the subject. I t has evidently been compiled wI.th care and. .one who has .an intimate knowledge of millers and the IllJunes and severe Illnesses to which they are liable.

Especially good the chapter on Electnc Shock; indeed, we would recommend It to lecturers on first aid it is written in that at once intelligible and and the which the letter-press will greatly assist the ambulance student In understanding the precautions and to be adopted when dealing with this allImportant subject. We confess we should like to have seen a chapter upon ?ne or more. ?f the systems of apparatus, but doubtless In future editIOns the author wIll deal with this subject.

We heartily recommend this little work to all of those who are connected the mininb .industry. It is published by John Wnght & Co., Bnstol, at the popular price of sixpence.

AIDS TO MEMORY FOR FIRST AID STUDENTS.

By L. M. Frank Christian, M.B., C.M. Edin.

is a concise and comprehensive little work, written with a view to. enable ambulance students to more readily grasp. and· retalll the knowledge they have acquired while attend1l1g a course of lectures on first aid and to prepare for the qualifying e,xamination. V!e have and read many text-books on thiS subject, but It has not been our privilege to review one, of which :Ne S? .th<;>roughlJ:' approved; the author has systemlsed the vanous 1l1Junes and Illnesses under different he<l:ds in such a w.ay as to make them intelligible to the novice up .the .subJect for the first time; whilst to the seasoned first alder It Will. prove a boon, in enabling him or her to readily rub up any portion of the subject of which for the time they may have lost touch.

AI D.- April, 1908.

As an aid to those who enter for ambulance competitions it should prove invaluable, for we know of no work which gives the details of any injury or sudden illness, and the treatment to be adopted, in so concise and terse a form; in fact, it sets it out in just the manner that a judge likes to receive the answer to his question. We anticipate for it a ready sale amongst ambulance competitors training for the various events which mark this season of the year.

The tabulated chart dealing with injuries and diseases of the brain is especially good, as also is the chapter on H ce morrhag-e. In the matter of artificial respiration, too, the book is quite up-to-date, inasmuch as it has an abridged but well thought out chapter on Schafer's method.

The book is published at sixpence, and may be obtained from the Stores Department, St. John Ambulance Association, St. John s Gate, London. By post, seven pence.

THE ROYAL ARMY MEDICAL CORPS (V OLS.)

GLASGOW COMPANIES ANNUAL.

Edited

by Capt. R. T. Halliday.

WE heartily cong'ratulate Capt. Halliday on the very entertaining number of the Annual which he has again issued. It teems with interesting matter; interesting not only to the members of the Glasgow Companies, but to all of those who take an interest in the doings of our medical volunteers. There is a note of sadness, both in the opening and in the concluding paragraphs, wherein allusion is made to the passing of the Volunteer force, in which, as the Editor says, "many of us have spent so many happy years. " vVe trust, however, that the passing of the Volunteer does not necessarily imply that Ca.pt. Halliday's smart little "Mag." will not appear again. The new force will be equally dependent upon some ca)!ab le scribe to record, at least once in each year, the history of its camps, its contests, and, may we say, its increased efficiency; and surely no more capable pen could be found thus to maintain the traditions of the past than he who has endeared himself to every member of the force by his kindly courtesy and his ever-ready wiU:ngness to do anything that lay within his power to help the Glasgow Companies to attain their present high state of efficiency.

The International First Aid and Life Saving Congress, Frankfort.

THE organising committee have informed us that all arrangements for this important gathering are now well advanced. The Congress, as our readers are aware, takes place at Whitsunlide, and the promoters earnestly desire that as many of their English colleagues, not forgetting those of the softer sex, will make an effort to attend this, the first International gathering ever held in connection with these two important subjects.

We understand that as many as ninety-three papers dealing with the subjects have been submitted, these may be summarised as follows :--

Section I.-Medical First Aid in cases of accident, 8 papers.

Section II.-Ie.struction of non-professionals in first aid (First Aid and Ambulance Lectures), II papers.

Section IlL-Ambulance work in towns, 2 papers.

Section IV.-Ambulance work in the country-in industrial and small commercial centres, 5 papers.

Section V.-Ambulance work in land traffic (Railway, Automobile, &c.), 11 papers.

Section VL-Ambulance work at sea and on inland and coast waters, 10 papers.

Section VII.-Ambulance work in mines and similar working establishments, 13 papers.

April, 19 08 .

-FIRST

Section VIII.-Am bulance work by Fire Brigades, 8 papers. .' Section IX. -Am bulance work m the mountams, 3 papers. Section X.-Ambulance work and sport, 3 papers. The following p1pers have been promised from Great Britain :-

"Suggestions to improve First Aid on Railways," by James W. Cro.sto.n

" First AId m the Fue SerVIce," by Horace Folker.

"Suggested Rules for Recovering of Coal Mines after Explosions an.d !ires," by W. \7arforth, President of the Mining of

"First AId and LIfe Savmg m Coal Mmes," by Albert M. Oppenheimer.

"First Aid in the Streets of London," by S. Osborn, F.R.C.S.

The printing - of the various papers is now in full progress, and the Committee urgently desire that they may receive without further delay those papers not yet to hand including their synopsis in the two other languages to used in the Congress. This it will be readily understood is as much in the interest of the authors as of the management of the Congress.

It is hoped to shortly be in a position to publish full details as to Railway and Boat facilities, hotels, lodgings, &c. These .we understand are i.n hands of. a special Traffic Commltt.ee at Frank.fort which engaged. m making arrangements With the leadmg companIes attending the Congress.

Eight foreign Governments have signified their intention of taking part and propose to appoint delegates to officially attend. It is also extremely gratifying to learn that the Industrial Communities of many countries will be represented by delegates, as will also the leading sanitary associations.

In connection with the Congress it is proposed to have an exhibition of life saving appliances and first aid apparatus, including means of transport for the sick and injured. For this purpose the Velodrom, situated close by the Congress building, has been most kindly placed at the disposal of the Committee by Herr Kommerzieurat Klayer, of Frankfort. Demonstrations with scientific exhibitions will be given in Linckenberg Library which is in direct communication with the Congress building. All communications and all enquiries concerning the Exhibition should be addressed to the Exhibition Committee, 3, Bethmann Strasse, Frankfort-on-Main.

With regard to the details of the programme which has been arranged, the Committee have decided that having regard to the large number of papers to be read, the whole of the third day of the Congress-Friday, June 12th - shall be devoted to that function. Provisionally the programme as arranged is as follows :-

Tuesday, June 9th.-Reception and welcome of the delegates in the Rathaus followed by supper m the Ratskeller.

Wednesday, June 10th.-Inaugural meeting of the Congress in the Aula the Academy for Social and Commercial Science (J iigelhaus). This takes place in the afternoon after which the individual sections will be constituted the sectional meetings commenced. Banquet in Frankfurter Hof.

Thursday, June Ilth. Sectional meetings followed by united meetings.

Friday, June 12th.-Sectional meetings. Garden Party in the Palmeragarten.

Saturday, June 13th.-Closing meeting of the C:.mgress

A I D.-

followed by visits to the Institutes of Serum Cultivation, at Hbchst, inspection of same, followed by an excursion to Saalburg. Supper at the Kurhaus, Hamburg.

It is also proposed to arrange practical demonstrations with life-saving apparatus, and drills and life-saving exercises will be given. The data for this however is not yet sufficiently arranged for publication.

In conclusion, we can assure those of our readers who may propose attending the Congress, that they will receive a most cordial wefcome from our German "first aid" confreres, and thus we hope another link may be forged in the International chain of friendship. The Organizing Committee are taking all p05sible steps to ensure that the Sanitary Institutions, public buildings, and other sights in the City of Frankfort, shall be accessible to the members of the Congress, who will be conducted round under the guidance of experts.

DOVER.-The annual competition for the Challenge Cup (presented by the president, E. P. Barlow, Esq.) took place on March 25th, in the Wesleyan Schoolroom, Buckland. The judge was Lieut. Burgess, R.A.M.C. (Vols.), assisted by Brigade Chiet Supt. Church-Brasier (retired), both of Margate. There were four teams in the competition, and the work was watched with keen interest by a large number of visitors. The result was as follows :-I.St (winners of Cup and Gold Medals), Tupper (111 charge), Ptes. Young, Gore and Watson, With 188 marks ; 2nd (winners ::>f the Hon. Surgeon's prize), CorpI.. Goodburn (in charge), Ptes. Tugwell, Belsey and Goodlff, 147 marks; 3rd, Ptes. Jones (in charge), Baily, Norley and Hopper, T 46 marks; 4th, CorpI. Vincent (in charge), Ptes. Seath, Boddy and \Voodhurst, 121 marks.

The cup was handed to Corpl. Tupper hearty applause, this being the fourth time he has been 111 charge of the winning team.

In reply to a vote of thanks proposed by Sergt. Plater to the judges, the "Chief" expressed his great pleasure in being with the men again.

Where to stay at Frankfort dDring the "First Aid" Congress.

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THE ENGLISH 61 Central position.

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Brevities.

THE terrible calamity in Castle-street, whereby eight persons lost their lives, and twenty were more or less seriously injured, once more emphasises the urgent necessity which exists for a properly organised ambulance service for the Metropolis. On such an occasion as this there is nothing to be gained by mincing matters, and we say, and say deliberately, that the delay, the criminal delay with which this most urgent question is being treated is a disgrace to our civilisation; it is a blot on the Metropolis that here, in the twentieth century, after years of agitating -we commenc ed our crusade in 1894-nothing of any practical value has yet been done to remedy this disgraceful state of affairs. It is true that upon this occasion the London Fire Brigade and London Salvage Corps did yeoman service in removing the debris and extricating the unfortunate victims of the catastrophe, and we tender warm commendations to Col. Fox, Lieut. Sladen, and the gallant fellows who worked under them, for the intrepid and skilful way in which they carried out their hazardous, and at times, heartbreaking task.

FmsT aid was rendered, we also understand, by a staff of medical students and nurses, hastily summoned from the Middlesex Hospital, to which institution the sufferers were afterwards conveyed; but what about transport? The police, it is true, brought out their antiquated litters, but as we have pointed out on previous occasions, these "instruments of torture" are totally unsuited to the conveyance of seriously injured people, and, indeed, are likely to further aggravate their sufferings, if not increase the the risk of their injury. * * *

WE trust that the medical men of the Metropolis, who, under the pioneership of the late Mr. Reginald Harrison, first succeded in compelling the authorities to tackle this question, will now see to it that there is no further delay. Mr. Gladstone and the Home Office must be severely taken in in hand and compelled, by the voice of those who realise the urgency of the case, to at once take steps to remedy the defect. * **

SURELY by this time even a Royal Commission can have gr.asped the seriousness of the situation, or will they want stIll further appalling evidence, such as that shown by the Castle-street calamity, to prove that an am bulance for the Metropolis is an urgent and imperative neceSSIty. It would appear almost like thrashing a dead dog to attempt to argue seriously with those who are responsible for this state of affairs, but this Journal has never wavered in its advocacy for an up-to-date service and we to raise our voice against this disgraceful, thIS cnmmal neglect until the stigma is removed.

* * *

WE have something to say tryis month to those who

AI D.- April, 1905.

admire General Baden Powell, and they are, we know, a fairly numerous class amongst the readers of FlRs-r: Am, especially amongst the warm-hearted folk of Lancashire, where he is a general favourite, not so much on account of the heroic defence of that little outpost on the veldt, for we have it on the General's own admission, that that was not" a one man show," every man, woman, aye, and child, says the General, did his or her part, although those who have met" B. P." can quite realise that it was his cheery manner of always seeing the bright side of things, that instilled into his little garrison that dogged pluck and stern determination to hold Mafeking for the Empire against all comers.

* * *

SINCE he settled down in our midst ag'1.in, if "B.P." can ever be assumed to have settled down, he has been indulging in some straight talks to the Boys of the Empire, on the ethics of good citizenship and patriotism. In connection with the Boy Scouts Legion, of which he is the founder, he has recently brought out a weekly paper for boys -Tlze Scout-the first num ber of which appeared on April 16th. Our advice to those of our readers who have sons, is to take the paper for them. It is one of the best books for boys that we know of, and it will teach them not only patriotism and love of country, but how to live clean, healthy lives, and above all it will inculcate the spirit of true chivalry, a principle so sadly lacking in this our present age of" hustle."

The Miners' Medal of St. and John. the Order

IN our last month's issue we presented in our columns an illustration and brief account of this medal, which has been appropriately designated the Miners' "ye," the decoration being intended to be conferred only upon those heroes,. who, at the risk of their own lives, go to the rescue of theIr fellows, who, owing to those terrible disasters which occur. from time to time, are entombed in underground work1Ogs.

One of our correspondents had promised to obtain for reproduction the portraits of the two gallant heroes who were to ?e the first recipients of the medal , and also to send a few partIculars to accompany the same. Unfortunately, at the last he faIled to keep his promise, and, as we were waItIng to go to press, steps had to be taken to fill the space which had been reserved. By the courtesy of the Daily Graphic we were enabled to present our readers with an illustration of the medal, and the letterpress matter to ac.company the same was somewhat hurriedly compiled and 1Oserted.

Several correspondents have since wri tten to us calling attention to the fact that we were in error in stating that there was no medal existing which could be conferred upon those heroes who heroically risk their own lives to save the lives of others.

Amongst others, Sir Herbert Perrott, the Secretary ot the Or.der of St: John, has written an extremely kind letter calling to this error, and, in thanking Sir for hIS sourteous communication, we can assure both hIm, and the Order, that we had no intention of

April\ 1905 -FIRST

ignoring the recognition, which, has now for many years past been conferred by the Chapter General, with the approval and sanction of the Sovereign, upon the heroes of our Mines.

Reference to the paragraph in question, on page 137, in our March issue, will show that the omission of one word-viz., the word solely-made all the difference. The wording should have been" no medal existing which could be conferred solely on heroes of mines." We trust that this explanation will be considered a satisfactory one, and that the expression of our sincere regret that it should have occurred, will be accel-lted both by Sir Herbert and our other correspondents.

Ever since the present proprietors assumed the control of FIRST Am, it has never failed to give due acknowledgment of the splendid services rendered by the Order, and its several Departments to the cause of suffering humanity, and while we have not failed to draw attention to matters which we considered would be better for revision, we have never done so in any other than in a distinctly courteous manner and without any attempt at

AID.-

153

to them for many little acts of courtesy shown to us 10 connection with our Journal and its mission.

Some time since, a very general desire was expressed by certain provincial members of the S.J.A.B. that we should publish each month a list of appointments, promotions and resignations, so that they might have earlier and more frequent knowledge of such events, which we can readily understand are of vital interest to all ranks; we were favourably disposed to the suggestion, and were fully prepared to devote a page each month, to the publication of such notices and other current events of interest. That such information would be appreciated by a very large section of our readers we quite believe. But, although we made the offer long since, up to the present time we have never received a reply either of an affirmative or negative character. \V e do not wish our readers to infer that we feel aggrieved at such treatment, or that it is likely to adversely influence our line of action in the future-such will certainly not be the case. As in the past, whilst we shall continue to praise that which we deem praiseworthy, so likewise we shall never hesitate to condemn that which we hold to be blameworthy.

That the Order of St. John is doing a good work - a great work-we are convinced, and one of a distinctly humanitarian character. That being so, we hope that it may be our privilege for many years to come, to record its continual progress. In the letter which we received from Sir Herbert, he kindly favoured us with some interesting data anent the medal for life-saving granted by the Order of St. John, and as the particulars may, doubtless, be unknown to some of our readers, we have much pleasure in quoting them here.

It was in the year 1874 that the Order of St. John instituted Silver and Bronze Medals and Certificates of Honour, especially for the reward of distinguished gallantry shown in saving life in th e colliery and mining districts. At that time no reward for acts of valour on land was open to the civilian, that, is, in the shape of a decoration or medal. The soldier and the sailor could receive the Victoria Cross for heroism under fire; persons who saved life from drowning might receive the Albert Medal, the Medal of the Royal National Life Boat Institution, and uf the Royal Humane Society, and others.

dictation. We would, however, take this opportunity of pointing out, that, while we are at all times only too ready and willing to accurately report any item connected with the Order, and its several Departments, we very often experience the greatest difficulty in obtaining particulars.

From Sir Herbert, and the Departments immediately under his own supervision, we invariably receive the information we are in search of, or some courteous explanation is tendered giving the reasons for withholding it; but, in another direction, our applications for information are, at times, met in a manner suggestive of intentional discourtesy. We reget to place on record that it is so, but we desire to point the moral.

If we were accorded the privilege of receiving official matter for publication, there would be less likelihood of inaccuracies occurring in our columns, in connection with the Order and its Departments. We have always shown a desire to assist its good work by every means in our powe r, and that this is realised, and appreciated by many of its members, we are well aware, for our thanks are due

The granting of the Albert Medal as a reward for saving on land did not come about until several years afterwards. The Medal of the Order of St. John therefore remained for many years the only distinction in the shape of a reward for distinguished exceptional courage in saving life on land, and among the most distinguished recipients, during the last thirty-three years, have been a large num ber of colliers and miners. The two first recipients were Elijah Hallam and Frederick Vickers, for great gallantry displayed in saving life at a colliery disaster at Whittington Moor, November, 1875. This was followed in 1877 by the award of silver medals to one of Her Majesty s Inspectors of Mines, and four miners who savtd life on the occasion of another terrible colliery disaster. These medals were presented at Pontypridd, by a representative of the Chapter ;f the Order in the presence a distinguished company which included the Lord-LIeutenant of the County.

Still later, there was the appalhng dIsaster at the Mardy Collieries, when nine silver medals were presented by the Order to men who l:ad nobly risked their own lives in their efforts to save the hves of others.

Many other cases might be. cited, to the miners' gallantry has not gone WIthout recogOltlOn 10 the past. But the above will, we think, prove beyond doubt

OBVERSE. REVERSE.

MEDAL AWARDED BY THE ORDER FOR GALLANTRY IN SAVING LIFE ON LAND.

that the Order of St. J obn is entitled to all honour for having in the past-in fact for half a century, the means of conferring recogmtlOn upon many heroes m the hum bier walks of life, whose gallantry, but for the existence of this grand old Order of Chivalry, might have gone unrecognised and possibly unnoticed.

By the courtesy of Sir Herbert Perrott, we have the pleasure to present our readers wi.th. an of medal issued by the Order for dlstmgUlshed gallantry 111 saving life on land.

The " Addison" Challenge Bowl Competition.

FIVE teams entered this year for this competltlOn, viz.East Boldon A and B teams, Doxford's team, the Seamens' Mission team, and the Hylton Colliery team. In the premier stages of the competition East Boldon B team and that of the Seam ens' Mission were handsomely beaten, and the remaining three teams met for the final struggle on March 25th at the Y. M. C A. Hall, Borough-road, Sunderland; there was a large company of interested spectators present, amongst whom were Dr. J. Gibson Modlin, chairman of the Sunderland Centre S.J.A.A., Drs. Dillon, Chalmers, Wallace, Ilay and Carruthers, Mr. Harrison, treasurer, Mr. T. J. French, secretary, Sunderland Centre S.J.A.A., Mr. McBeth, secretary to the Compp.tition, and Mr. H. M. Parrington, manager of Hylton Colliery. The judge was Dr. Grey, of West Hartlepool, and he put the three teams through a series of stiff tests in oral and practical work and stretcher drill, and at the close awarded the challenge bowl to Hylton Colliery with 297 points. East Boldon team being second with 267 points, and Doxford and Sons team third with 122 points.

The winners are to be congratulated on this, the third victory they have achieved. During the last three years they have worked hard in preparing for competitions, and although they have been beaten time after time, they have never lost heart, nor their zeal for ambulance work cooled. In August last they won the" Kirkley)) challenge bowl, for which thirteen teams entered, securing at the same time a gold medal for each mem ber of the winning team. Their next victory was at Newcastle, in Septem ber, when they succeeded in winning the "Palmer" challenge bowl in open competition against six of the best teams to be found in the Newcastle district, securing at the same time silver medals with gold centres.

We congratulate also Dr. J. c. B. Carruthers, the hon. surgeon, on the satisfactory result which has attended his untiring labours. We are sure it must be extremely gratifying to him, to see how fully they have profited by his instruction; nor must we forget to award a meed of lJraise to Mr. W. E. Pegg, who has captained the winning team; it owes much of its success to his zeal and untiring practical instruction.

It is gratifying to know that the Wear mouth Coal Company take great interest in their ambulance men, and at all times defray the costs of the classes, and provide the necessary material, in addition to which they have also provided a lecture hall.

Mr. H. M. Parrington, the manager of the Hylton Colliery, who is president of the class, is anxiolJS that all officials and as many men as possible shall attend the lectures and prepare for examinations, aJded to which the Company have agreed to defray the cost of uniform for those who join the St. John Ambulance Brigade.

G.E.R. -The ambulance work on the Great Eastern Railway is making strenuous strides as was evidenced by the enthusiastic gathering which assembled at the Stratford Town Hall, on Tuesday evening, the 7th inst, on the occasion of the concert and distribution of prizes to the winners in the inter-corps competitions, the final stages of which were carried out during the afternoon. Lord Claude Hamilton, chairman of the Company, presided, supported by the Mayor of West Ham (Councillor J. B. More-Smith), the Rt. Hon. Alwyn E. Fellowes, the Hon. Mrs. Fellowes, Inspection General Belgrave Ninnis, and the directors and the principal officers of the Company.

During the year 36 I employes presented themselves for examination, and of that number 326 passed. Since the inception of the centre in 189I, no less than 2,547 men have secured certificates or medallions; these are very creditable results, and Mr. T. O. Mein, the hon. secretary of the centre, is to be congratulated on the success which to a certain extent has resulted from his labours.

Out of the eleven inter-railway competitions the Great Eastern Railway has secured the coveted challenge shield five times. The Hon. Mrs. Fellowes presented the prizes to the winning teams of the inter-corps competition, which were announced as follows :March, 24I marks; Doncaster, 233 ; Thorpe-le-Soken, 2 14; Stratford, 205 ; Ipswich, 189, and Palace Gates, 171 ; in all twenty-five teams took part, and March are not only the winners of the challenge shield presented by the directors of the Company, but they will also represent the Great Eastern in the coming inter-railway contest.

Lord Claude Hamilton, in a short speech, referred to the ambulance corps as doing a good work of great public utility, and they would receive every encouragement from the directors; they were setting a good example to others and should the unfortunate occasion arise they would be able to render valuable a.ssistance, not only to their fellow workers, but also to the travelling public. A variety concert was provided by the" Orchid II Concert party.

G.N.R.-The final competition for the challenge cup, presented by the officers of this Company, was held on Tuesday, April 2nd, at Culross Hall, King's Cross. Six teams entered, and the result was as follows :-King's Cross, 527 marks; Doncaster, 484; Spalding, 445; Ardsley, 430; Derby, 405; New England, Peterboro', 275. The King's Cross team was in charge of Mr. P. J. Seabright, chief clerk, G.N.R., Royal Mint-street. This will represent the Company in the Inter-Railway Competition. Doctors Ingram and Young ably officiated as judges. Mr. Oliver R. H. Bury, general manager of the Great Northern Railway Company presented the prizes.

METROPOLITAN.-The competition for the challenge shield, presented by the directors and officers of the Metropolitan Railway and the prizes offered by the Company. was held at the Neasden W9rks on Saturday, 28th March.

Nine teams competed from the Traffic, Carriage, L()('o-

April, 19 0 8 -FIRST

motive and Permanent Way Sections of the railway. The team. from the carriage shops was again successful irl winning the shield with a score of 262} out of 300, and this team will represent the Company at the forthcoming InterRailway Competition.

One of the traffic teams took second place in the competition with 23Ii marks.

C(Drs. J. M. Carvell and E. K. Houchin where the judges.

Some good work was done and there was an excellent attendance, and the closeness with which the contest was watched is evidence of the keen interest taken by the staff on this railway in first aid work.

The General Manager, Mr. A. C. Ellis. who is president of the Metropolitan Railway Centre, will present the shield and prizes some time in the current month, and the members of the first team will receive commemorative medals given by the Assistant General Manager, Mr. A. B. Garside.

S.E. & c.R.- The fifth annual dinner of the Ambulance Centre was held at the Cannon-street Hotel ton Wednesday, April 8th. The success which has attended the Ambulance Movement on this railway can be measured by the fact that it was found necessary to hold an overflow dinner in an adjoining hall attached to the Great Hall, so numerous were the company, amongst whom were Mr. H. Cosmo Or me Bonsor (Chairman of the S.E. & CR.), who presided Sir A. Watkin, Mr. E. Mellor, Mr. Vincent W. Hill, Mr. W. R. Edwards, Mr. W. Morgan, Colonel Lees Hall, R.A.M.C., Drs. R. J. Roberts, R. D. Muir, A. R. Henchley, and Coates, R. N.; Mr. E. C. Cox (Chairman of the Ambulance Centre), and Mr. E. A. Richards (Hon. Secretary Ambulance Centre).

The Chairman, in responding to the toast of the Dire,:tors, said both he and his colleagues appreciated the kind manner in which th':! toast had been received. It was useless to disguise the fact that they were living in bad times, and they had further depressions to face, the sooner they recognised the fact the better.

Mr. Vincent Hill (General Manager) referred to the excellent work which was being done by the ambulance men -they set an example which others should follow. He had recently passed through a serious illness, in of the practical help he received from the Vlctona team who so skillfully removed him, he would give them £5 if they were in either of the first three places in the coming Inter-Railway Contest.

Mr. Cox (Chairman of the Centre) announced the results of the Inter-Corps Competitions which were held at Caxton Hall, Westminster, during that afternoon as follows :-( I) Victoria Team, 33 I marks j (2) Sittingbourne No. 1 Team, 317; (3) Ashford Running Sheds, 3 1 3; (4) Beckenham Junction, 312 (5) Ramsgate No. Team, 303; (6) Cannon-street, 295 (7) Ashford Works, 29 2 ; (8) Herne Hill, 277 ; (9) Canterbury No. Team, 27 I.

The Victoria Team is the representive of the Centre in the Inter-Railway Competition.

Mr. Cox remarked that much of the success which had attended the various competitions and classes 'W·as due to the untiring energies of Ernest Alfred Richards, the Hon. Sec. of the Ambulance Centre-and there was a very general desire among officers and men to show their high appreciation of his services and respect for him in a very tangible form. There was not a single officer or on the line but who had the highest esteem for Mr. Rlchards, and all were most anxious to subscribe to give him a testimonial. He was glad to have the opportunity of

AI D.- ISS

asking the Chairman to pr esent him with a massive illuminated addtess and a gold keyless watch, and also a china tea service for his wife. In every part of lme the response for subscriptions was so great that even If treble the amount had been needed it could have been raised-so greatly was Mr. Richards admired for the enthusiasm thrown into the work.

Mr. E. A. Richards said he could not find words to express his feelings of surprise at receiving such magnificent gifts that evening, and fur the very kind and flattering remarks made by the Chairman and Mr. Cox respecting him. He was exceedingly grateful to know his efforts had met with such satisfaction, and to see the spirit which had animated the subscribers to present him and his wife with such valuable presents. He would look upon that evening as one of the happiest he had ever spent in his life-happy to receive such tangible gifts and happy in knowing his efforts had met with such a splendid recognition. He felt he was unworthy of them-and could assure all present that the whole of the work was a real pleasure to him. These gifts were also demonstrating to the Board of Directors and the medical gentleman who had assisted the classes how very grateful all were for their help, for without their co-operation they would be as an engine without steam. On behalf of his wife and himself, he heartily thanked all the subscribers for their handsome gifts, which was one more link in the chain of evidence of their sole consideration for others.

The presentation bears the following inscription:" Presented to Mr. E. A. Richards as a tok e n of respect, by ambulance men on the South -Eastern and Chatham Railway line. April 8th, 1908."

During the evening a variety concert was given under the direction of Mr. H. Demanche.

The Territorial Force.

CANTERBURY. - This city, under the new scheme, has been called upon to furnish an entire field ambulance, 251 officers, non-commissioned officers and men, and it is gratifying to report that more than half the number are already enrolled, and there is but little doubt that the unit will soon be at full strength. The corps possess both a fine brass band and a bugle band. The men are as keen as possible and turn up well at all parades, there being an average attendance of over 60 at the weekly drills.

We learn that the prize distribution will take place this month, and it is expected that a well-kn?wn nobleman will undertake the presentation. Our heartiest congratulations to Capt. Henchley on the success which has attended the hard work he has put into the movement during the past year. He is enthusiastic him.self. and he possesses that ready knack ?f c.ommUl1lCatlrJg that enthusiasm to those who work WIth hIm and those under his command.

IpswlcH.-The Bearer Company R.A.M.C (Vols.) met for the last time under old conditions on April 2nd. Lieut.-Col. Hoyland, in addressing his command, ?aid that although they had said good-bye to the .old name they would continue the work. There was nothll1g m the new regulations that would render their service more difficult. So far as camp pay went they would be better off than any Volunteers in the town and he would make every effort to obtain grants which wduld ensure their drawing in future not less than they had in the past. He asked them to follow him in the new force.

Major Freeman, R.A.M.C., staff officer to Colonel

-FIRST

G. S. Elliston, P.M.O., of the East Anglian Divison, in addressing the men, said the Territorial soldiers under canvas would be in exactly the same position with regard to pay and other matters as his regular brother in the R.A.M.C.. The drill pay in the field ambulance would be as follows :-Ordinary pay, IS. 2d.; special corps pay ranging from a minimum of 4d. to a maximum of IS., according to the efficiency and qualifications; rations of bread and meat to the value of Sd., and extra messing allowance at IS some of which would go into their own pockets. Men of all trades were wanted; was an opening for everyone, and the work would be more interesting and comprehensive than heretofore.

Tn response to Col. Hoyland's appeal the whole of the men present came forward, and were duly sworn in as soldiers of the Territorial force.

Several recruits were also present, and they also signed on and were duly enro lled.

Coming Events.

Pal'Lieulars of forthcoming eve n ts will be 11lse1'ted ill tllis column p'ee of eltalge, if received not later than tlte I4tlz of eaelt month

B7'iglzouse.- The Annual Fire Brigade and Ambulance Competitions, in connection with the Brighouse Friendly Societies and Trade Demonstration, will take place on June 13th next. Hon. Secretary, S. vViddop, 19, Thornhill,road, Rastrick.

Clzippenham.- The Annual Fire Brigade Competi tion will be held here at Whitsuntide. Challenge shields and silver cups to the value of £ J 30, in addition to money prizes, will be compet ed for. Particulars of C.O. H. S. Phipps, Union-road, Chlppenham.

Frankfort-ol1-Main.- The 1st International First Aid and Li fe Saving Congress will be held during V/hitsuntide from June 9th to 13th. An Exhibition in connection with the congress will also be held at the Velodrom. Particulars of Hon. Sec. Br!ttish Committee, S. Osborn, Esq., F.R.C.S., Datchet, near Wmdsor.

Lessines.- The committee of the Belgian Federation has decided to hold it5 19th Congress here, on the l!th 12th and 13 th of July next, in conjunction with Namur. The Committee is vet;y anxious to see a numher of English officers and firemen at thIS gathenng. Special facilities are offered. Particulars of Mr. C. Kusel, 36, Newton-road, Westbourne-gro ve , London. VV.

London.- The Inter-Railway Competitions will be held at the Portman Rooms, Baker-street, on May 15 th

Namur. - The 19th Congress of the Belgian Federation will be held here on June 6t h, 7th, and 8th next. I t is hoped that a good many English firemen will attend.

Paris -A n interna.tional competition has been arranged by the U mon de la Seme, to be held here at Whi tsuntidf' English steamer brigades are invited to take part. of Mr. C. Kusel, 36, Newton-road, Westbourne -grove, London. The Camp and Competitions of the N.F:B.U. wIll be held here from July roth to I7th. Further partIculars from the Gen. Hon. Sec. Chief Officer Hill Bed-

When corresponding with Adver t ise r s please mention "First Aid."

AI DA Mo t o r Am bulanc e Aut o m obile

April, 190 8.

of the Club . Ni ce

THE two illustrations of a 24-h.P. Motor Ambulance which we reproduce by kind permission of Tile A utoea r, is intended to be attached to a public ambulance service which has recently been organised by the Automobile Club, of Nice. The executive of the service is composed of

No.2 Dis t ric t

SOUTHAMPToN.-Since Colonel Twiss took ambulance matters in hand in this town the progress made has been well nigh phenomenal. In his report for 1907, the Colonel expressed a desire to carry out three very necessary requirements during 1908, and it speaks well for his energy and enthusiasm that he has succeeded in all three projects.

Al D. - 157

poisoning, supposed to have been caused by the injuries, • set in with fatal results.

A large number of the deceased s comrades followed his remains to their last resting place. The coffin was covered with the Ambulance Brigade Flag, upon which rested his cap, belt and pouch. Six of his comrades acted as bearers, and Bugler Clarkson (Brierfield Division) sounded the " Last Post" at the graveside.

No 5 District.

several medical members of the club, together with the local Hospital authorities. The car is not only intended to deal with emergency cases in the town, but also long distance work as well. It contains two full size stretchers on the Dr. Desprez system, one slung by straps from the roof, special arrangements beinf! made to haul it up easily intu place by means of wire cables. The lower stretcher on to rails, which are themselves swung by coiled spnngs from brackets bolted to the floor, so that vibration is entirely eliminated. The let down flap seats are fitted

The first item to be tackled was the provision of a stretcher depot on the common, next came the ambulance wagon, which is now on order, and lastly the formation of a Nursing Division in connection with the Brigade, and this last was effected on the nnd of last month, when a meeting of ladies was held in the Council Chamber, under the presidency of the Mayor (Alderman C. Sharp), who was supported by Lieut.-Colonel Twiss, The Rev. F. G. G Wright, Miss Sangster and other ladies.

The Mayor, having expressed his gratification at seeing so many ladies spoke of the desirability of forming a Nursing Division. Lieut.-Colonel Twiss then explained the objects of the Nursing Division, which, he said, would meet twice a month at 33, High-street. He pointed out how necessary it was that they should keep up their knowledge of nursing, and said that Miss Sangster, who was tmtil recently Lady Superintendent at Portsmouth, had consented to accept a similar appointment in their Division.

He (the speaker) also alluded to the possibility of th is country being engaged in war, a possibility much nearer to ac tuality than many people generally supposed. The Nursing Division which they were about to enrol would form part of a large trained reserve of men and womenpeople with a sense of responsibility-who would be capable of taking charge of the home hospitals, thereby enabling a great body of trained men and nurses to proceed at once on active service. As a result of a spirited address, of which we can only outline the summary, thirty ladies joined the Division, of which Dr. Purvis has consented to act as Honorary Surgeon. The usual votes of thanks brought the meeting to a close.

No. 3 Di s tri c t .

COLNE.-On March 14th the funeral took place at St. John'S Church, Nelson, of Pte. Ernest Baldwin, who received injuries in October last, which ultimately led to his death.

BRADFoRD.-The annual report of the Bradford City Am bulance and Nursing Divisions is of a most satisfactory character and proves conclusively that there is no lack of interest in the work which has been so admirably carried on in recent years under th e auspices of the S.J.A.B. During the year under review we find that 303 first aid cases were attended to by m embe rs of the Divisions, and of these 64 cases of a serious character were conveyed to the Infirmary or to their own homes; in the latter case, the friends of the patient being advised to, at once, call in their own medical man.

No. 6 District.

Members of Divisions desirous of joining the fatigue party on June 5th for pitching camp, &c., are required to send in their names to the Deputy Commissioner at once. Camp will tak ,: place at Whitby Bay, Tynemouth, from 5th to 9th, inclusive.

HULL. - On March 26th a grand costume concert was given in the Albion Lecture Hall in aid of the funds of the Western Division. Unfortunately several concerts had been arranged for the same evening, as also had the lecture by General Baden-Powell. Notwithstanding these counter attractions about 500 people were present, drawn no doubt by the fact that Mr. S. Woollock's Concert Party was to appear. Councillor Stephenson was. unable to preside, a good substitute was found, however, In Mr. J. R. Burden.

Those present included Chief Supt. Hopper, Transport Supt. Wingate and Supt. A. C. Carter. Apologies were received from District Chief Supt. A. H Johnston, and Supt. Secretary J. O. Vaughan.

In his speech, the Chairman alluded to the great progress mad e by the Western Division during the past year. As a proof of the us efu l work done by the members no less than 534 cases of first aid had been reported since October 1St.

Service stars were presented to Corpls. Seaman and Broadbent.

for the attendants, and the whole of the interior is lined brown all corners being rounded off to faclh ate cleanll1g, whtIe the floor slopes slightly towards so as to allow the used in washing the mtenor to run off at once. There IS an electric light in the roof, and the windows, which extend almost all the way round, are tmnslucent. The chassis is a standard 24-h p. Delaunay-Belleville and the body has been constructed by Messrs. Vedrine.

Pte. Baldwin, who was one of those who volunteered for hospital duty during the South African War, .was removing a patient in the horse ambulance from Foulndge to Colne. Seated on the front of the vehicle with the driver, he was passing through Lartht-street, when he was caught in the eye by a clothes line. Raising this up to allow the van to pass underneath he was again struck in the face by another clothes line, which knocked his head against the front of the vehicle Since that date he has complained of pain in his eye and head. Recently blood-

The programme, len.gthy, was very i?teresting, those taking part including Mandolme Band, the Kina-ston Trio, the juvel11le pupIls, Hull School of Dancing Holgate Ellison (ch!1racter impersonations from Messrs. G. A. Shaw, G. Dixon, T. IV. Ashley, and S. Woollock Mrs. Simmons, Mrs. Woollock, Miss Ada Monkman Mad"moiselle La Diddle De Vere, Miss Edie Coulson Miss Louie Dixon, the two latter juvenile performers, evoking great applause. It is impossible to praise one artist more than the other-they were all good.

A vote of thanks was accorded Mr. Sydney Woollock and his artists for presenting the concert, and to many others who had assisted in various ways.

WH E N OORRESPONDING WITH ADVER, TIS E RS PLEASE MENTI O N "FIRST AlD."

Ap ri l 19 0 8 -F IRST

AID. - 159

Fire Pr o tection for Roofs an d Windows.

OUR contemporary the D ecorators' and Painters' Maga z ine has a n interesting article on the value of wired glass windows as a fire retardent. As most of our readers are doubtless aware, directly the ordinary window glass yields to fire, which, as a rule, it so quickly does, a draught is at once created which not infrequently leads to a total loss of the property, and the imperilling of valuable human lives. Now fire resisting glass can be employed in all offices and factories, and with some modification it may be adopted in private houses.

In the United States it is claimed that wired glass has been the means of sa ving 3. number of buildings from what would have resulte d but for such protection, in total destruction. The tremendous heat which wired glass will withstand is enormous. In a case cited at ChIcago, a building is described as being entirely engulfed in fierce flames for a period extending considerably over three hours, and there was scarcely any damage done either to the building or its contents.

Another vulnerable point in the case of fire is the and again our American Cousins are directing theIr attentlOn to the best methods of roof construction, and materials for preventing the spread of fire in that quarter. Ordinary roofs are not much protection against n e ighbouring h e at, and strange as it may seem, It IS now stated that gravel roofs are virtually fireproof, and when thus cov e red will go for IS to 20 years without needing repair.

In Indianapolis, a roof made of tar and g ravel ov e r ?oards fire -swept, but though the tar lighted, the incombustibl e materials beneath protected the boards thoroughly, and after the fire was extinguished we understand the same materials were used a second time over the boards below! There is not the slightest doubt but that a slate roof would have split up in many places, in which case the fire would have had easy access between the rafters and would quickly have involved the whole building in disaster.

This film, which is practically that of a cement fireresisting roof appears an excellent one, added to which it is a very warm species of roofing, and prevents the freezIng of water tanks below, while it possesses a better water capacity under the most torrential downpour than possl.bly al!y known material. It naturally follows that It IS wInd-:-esistIng ; the breeze which occasionally lifts a slate or two In the ordinary roof with such grave consequences to everything beneath it, has no effect on a roof treated in this manner.

We have dealt wit? these two improvements whIch, we have saId, are being extensively adopted in the UOlted St.ates, we consider they are well worthy of the fullest InVestlgatlOn here In the case of hospitals helpless 'patients have to be removed, every minute, that .mlght be gained by the retarding of a fire, ,:ould be of lmmense value. Again, in the case of manSlOns, probably large SUulS have heen expended in decoratlOn of the ball-room, pictule galleries and the ltke, these should be effe ctually pr.0tected by wire glass on the on e hand, and a non -combustIble cement roof on the other.

<:l4]>

We are in no way responsible jor the opinions expl'essed, or th e statements made, by Correspondents.-EDITORS.

"FIRST AID " RAILWAY AMBULANCE COMPETITION.

DE AR SlR,-At an ambulance competition, held on March 25th, at King's Lynn, for challenge cup and prizes, the patient was supposed to be suffering from a fractured pelvis. The judge, Colonel Lees Hall, awarded the No. team 12 marks, out of a possible IS, for passing a blanket under the patient, and then lifting him on the blanket on to the stret c her According to page 44 of Cantlie's Text Book, this method of lifting only applies to a fractured spine, and I fail to see anythmg on page 58 why the pat ient should be lifted in any other way than according to No. I drill in the Text Book.

There is no wonder that the NO.3 team was dissatisfied, because its work was performed very smartly.

There is much diversity of opinion about this case, and although last week I myself was a competitor in a competition in London, when the test case was fractured pelvis, and all the teams in that competi tion lifted according to No. dr ill, I should like some of our ambulance experts to give an opinion. Perhaps Dr. Cantlie or Colonel Lees Hall will favour us.Yours truly, "LINNET. "

"THEY CRY PEACE WIlEN THERE IS NO PEACE."

DEAR SIR, - I was glad to read your note of Warning in last month s editorial. The Peace party so called-Peace at any price party, I call them - are so wrapped up in their love for,peace that they appear to have lost all love for their country and its great traditions. All honour to Lord Roberts, I say, and those who, like h im, are endeavouring to instil into the minds of their countrymen, the urgent necessity whi ch exists, for seeing to it that this country shall leave no SLOne unturned to enable her to maintain the proud pos ition, which our forefathers won for her.

At the risk of taking up spac e, I am g oing to call the attention of those of your readers who may belong to this party to the following facts. Lord Portsmouth said the other day in Parliament, "That neither he or anyone outsine a Lunatic Asylum would suppose that the Territorial Army would be equal to meeting unaided the trained and picked troops of the great powers of the continent." But as the Broad Arro w points out, most people know that the trained troops of continental powers are n ot pi ck ed. I t is precisely because they are not pi cked, but are taken from every rank and class in society, without substitutes, that continental armies formidable. They constitute the heart and brain of the whole nation, and the nation in arms is the nation that most dislikes war. Large armies are provided by continental powers, not to make war but to maintain peace. It is better to spend sixty or seventy millions a year in this way than to be forced into war. Fifty thousand hostile armed farmers forced us to spend many hundreds of millions in two years, in order to effect what the mere presence of a sufficient armed force would have effected without extra expenditure.

Speaking recently at a meeting on "Military Service and the National Preparedness," Sir George Whi te said, "There were two schools of thought among those who opposed the ex.tension of military service or training The first was composed of people who regarded all war as sin They must: remember, however, that sooner or later, if we were to main tain our position among the nations, war, with its attendant horrors,

mus t com e up on us, and h e sure st way to bring on thos e horrors was to veto all preparations for it or to fend it off."

Spe aking at Asco t of the dangers of invasion, Earl Roberts said, " I am not an alarmist, but I have no hesitation in saying, that it seems to me an absolute certainty some day, that if we remain as we are now this country will be invaded; there is nothing to prevent it. The navy may be as strong as you like, but it has to do things that no other navy has to do. It has to ensure its ow n country getting its supplies and to be all over the world Our popUlation has enormously increased, and if it failed we should starve, and we shou ld have to make peace on any terms that the enemy might offer It is a mistake to assume that compulsory training would mean hardship Everybody would be included in the scheme rich and poor. We should have no loafers, and as a result every man would be well set up and able to do what was necessary if they were called upon "

N ow these are weighty words, spoken by men who have g iven of their best for the Empite I yield to no one in my love for peace, and it is precisely because I so intensely desire its continuance, that I heartily approve any steps which will ensure that blessing. I am afra id this is a somewhat lengthy letter, but I feel that in season and out of season, one should speak out plainly, as to the onus that lays upon every citizen, to see that this country stands in the position ofTHE STRON G M AN ARl\lED.

WARNING.

DEAR SIR, - You struck the right note in your editorial last month. The misguided folk wbo are constantly crying out against the introduction of conscr iption into this country, seem to lose sight of the fact that, it is by tIle formation of Cburch Lads Brigades, Boys Brigades and Cadet CorpS, thereby training the young in tb e princi pies of self-defence, wh ich forms one of the strongest bulwarks against any necessity for conscription that this c ountry can possess. These lads on att a ining the requiSite age wiU, on their own initiativp, and as a result of their early training, naturally join the defensive for ces of the country, thus obviating any necessity for this country to adopt conscription

If the advocates of peace would but pause to think befure they inveigle against this early trainin g , they would see th 3.t by supporting this movement they were largely increasing the probabilities of the maintenance of peace. Yours truly, Cliffs End.

E. C WITHERS.

[We have received several other letters couched in similar s trains, and there is no doubt that the consensus of public op inion in this country is largely in favour of our taking all p ossible steps to maintain in the future, as in the past, our system of voluntary enlistment.-ED. " F. A. "]

ENGRAVING ON MEDALLION.

SIR,-Can any reader of "F. A. " kindly inform me if I should be allowed to have the engraving on my medallion a ltered, as my name is not correct. I t was wrongly engraved at the time, owing to the fact that I was reSiding with my stepfather. Must the error be rectified at St John's Gate ?-I remain yours, &c.,

A FIR ST AlDER.

[We should say decidedly it would be better to return it to St. Jolm's Gate and explain the circumstan ces.-ED. "F.A."

AMBULANCE CORPS AND CENTRES AND THE EMPLOYER'S LIABILITY ACT.

I nspector General H. C. Woods, R.N., writes :-" A question which is of genuine interest to an ambulance corps or centres that have ambulance vans or stretchers, &c , has arisen here

"How far is a corps or division (S.J.A.13 ), or the committee of this Association, liable for any injury whi ch effects a removal t o -( a ) the patient, ( b) the driver, (c) the horses, (d ) any injury to others or damage to property, caused by, say, a runaway horse, or orcl inary accidents

"We propose t o insure our van, &c.

"The driver and horse are supp lied by a liveryman, or taken from a cabs t and

you can give me on these points, and the Office Insure In will be received with many thanks by our Committee."

[We submitted the several queries to well-known insurance experts, and herewith have the pleasure to reproduce their decisions, as Inspector General Woods says, that they may be of Interest to those who have the management of ambulan ce transport

Dealing with the queries in rotation the insurance experts say :- ( a) The Patient. - We are of opinion that you would be liable in the event of negligence being proved by any officials or emp loyes of the Committee. This is what we should term an ordinary" third party risk."

(

b) The Driver.- You will undoubtedly be liable for any injury the driver may sustain whilst in your employ under the Workmen' s Compensation Act of 1906.

With regard to c and d, your liability to the horse and injury to persons depends upon the hiring cond itions that you make with the contractor who supplies the horse and van. If the contractor does not a cc ept any liability while su ch horse and van are in your charge, the Committee would be liable.]

DEAR SlR,-I shall esteem it a favour if you will allow me a little space in your valuable paper to answer your correspondent's letter signed" Fir. Sta. Id."

Male nurses are employed in the Poor Law hospitals in the large towns. If you get the Po or L aw Office r s Journ a l, published weekly, it will give particulars of vacancIes and all information you requ ire, or you could write to the publisher's office of that journal on the matter.

I have never heard of open indi vidu a l co mpetitions in any district, except the individual tests which are gi ven to competitors of the Dew a r Shield and su ch compet itions.

Trusting this will meet the writer s wish.-Yours truly, P. \V HAWKES , L a te Corporal Sandown Division, S.J.A.B

A WORLD'S R ECORD FO R CYCLE s.-La st year Messrs. Edward O'Brien, Ltd , the well-known Cycle Dealers of Coventry, created a sensation in the world of wheeldom by placing an order with one maker alone for 20,000 highgrade cycles. We are given to und e rstand that this order has been eclipsed by the same firm placing with a leading Coventry manufacturer an order at the last Stanley Cycle Show for no fewer than 30,000 bicycles to be delivered during 1908. It will be readily understood that it is by buying in such enormous quantities that M e ssrs. Edward O'Brien are able to se ll at exceptionally low rac '; s, and all our readers who contemplate buying a new mount for I9 08 would do well to write to this firm for a list.

Where to stay at Scarborou2 h durin2 the Camp Week

.

TH E GRAN 0 HOTEL is th e fin est a nd a rges o n th e N orth -E as t Coast , directly o ve rl ooking the Bay, a nd a dj o ining,the Spa 350 roo ms Th e only lI o tel in Scarbo ro ugh with H o t a nd Co ld Sea W at er (a lw ays read y) in Bathroo ms Band performs twi ce da ily duri ng Season. Modera e T a riff.

II. :\IUNRO JOHNSTON, N a t. Tel.: No. I, Sca rbro'. l Jlla nager

"ST. ALMA " (S OUT H CLIF F)

First-Class Boarding E s ablishment.

Ove r 30 Bedro oms Billiard and Sm okin g R oo ms T e rm s, fr o m 6s 6d. pe r day J. COl'LA 11), P ropr i eto r

Rescue Apparatus for Mines, &C.

The Independent Journal for the Ambulance and Fire Services.

To

As it is the wi sh and desire of the Proprietors to make thi s J ournal as instructive and entertaining as possible, correspondent s in all parts of the country are asked to giv e it all the help they can.

Seventh Edition, Revised ,and Enlarged. With Additional Illustrations. Post 8vo, 2S. net.

FIRST AID TO THE

Six Ambulance Lectures.

By Dr. FRIEDRICH ESMARCH. Translated from the German by H.R.H. PRINCESS CHRISTIAN.

The Sclzoolmaste?' says: "Anyone anxious to gain knowledge in the art of relieving pain, or possibly of saving liff', cannot do Letter than study these interesting and instructive pages.

London: S11ITH, ELDER & CO ., IS, WATERI OO PLACE, S.W.

"FIRST AlD."

£100 Free Insurance

UN D E RT A K EN BY

The Ocean Accident and Guarantee Corporation, Ltd. (Empowered by Special Act of Parliament.)

Principal Office: 36 to 44, Moorgate Street London, E.C.

This must not be defached.

"FIRST AID" TO THE INJURED AND SICK.

An Advanced Ambulance Handbook.

By F. J. WARWICK, B.A., M.B., Cantab:, and A. C. TUNSTALL, M.D., F.R.C.S., Ed.n.

" H as a lread y ak e n its p lace as a s a nd ard wo rk " -Br t. 111ed jour.

Fourlh E diti o n. On Shee s fl. .2 in. by 3 fl. 4 in 25. each, or 27S. 6d. nel. lhe set of 18 Sheet s or I1l ounl ed 0 11 Llllel) 45S. ne l. Will Ni ckel Head for S uspension.

Adopted by the WAR OFFICE, the ADMIRALTY and the LONDON SCHOOL BOARD.

LARCE SHEET "FIRST AID" DIACRAMS

Of the Illustrations in Warwick &: Tunstall's" 'F IRST AID' TO THE INJURED AND SICK."

Pap.:r C ove s Interlea ved, 6d. net. Post free 7d.

AMBULANCE EXAMINATION QUESTIONS.

By D. M. MACDONALD, M.B., S urf{ Lieut. 2nd S cottislt I-forse "Will be fou,nd. eXlremely useful by lh<!se attending the leclures prescribed by the dIfferent ASSo cIa tI ons and wh o a re prepann g fo r th e ex a minations '- BroadArrouJ.

BRISTOL: JOHN WRIGHT &

LONDON:

AMBULANCE

WILL be paid by THE OCEAN ACCIDENT AND £100 GUARANTEE CORPORATION, LIMITED PRINCIPAL OFFICE, Nos. 36 to 44, MOORGATE STREET, LONDON, E_ C., to the legal personal representative ot the bona fide holder of this Coupon-Insurance-Ticket if the holder shall be killed or fatally injured by an accident within the United or. Channel I sland? to any Railway Company's passenger111 which the holder IS travelling as a ticket-bearing or farepaymg passenger.

the above undertaking is subject to the following special condItions, whIch are of the essence of the contract, viz. : -

(a) death result. within thirty qays the accident; (b) that the holder shall pnor to the aCCident, have wntten h,S (or her) usual signature in nk in the un.de:neath; (c) t,hat notice a cident be given to the CorporatIOn at ItS PrInCIpal 111 London w,th,n fourteen days after its occurrence; medical certIficates and other information be furnished hy person claIming. upon request for the same by tbe Corporation; and (e) that th is applIes only lO persons ove r twelve and under seventy years of age, IS lImned to one Coupon-Insurance·Ticket for anyone holder, and holds good for the current month of Issue on ly

This entilles the holder to the benefit of, and is subj ect to t?e conditlOns of ,t,he ." Ocean Accident and Guarantee Company L1l1u ted , Act, 1890, Risks Nos. 2 and 3, when they are not incompatible with the special conditions above stated.

The possession 0./ Coupon-[nsurance- Ticket is admitted to be tlte payment 0./ a prem1um under Sec. 33 0./ tlte A ct. A Print 0/ tlte A ct can be seen

Superintendents of Corps and Officers of Division s of th e St. J ohn Ambulance Brigade, Officers of the R oyal Army Medical Corps (Volunteers), the Volunteer Ambulance School of In struction, and Chief Officers of Fire Brigades will, it is hoped, do their best to make t known amongst the members of their respe ctive organi sations, and will also send for publication their official news and notices Suggest tions are invited for Pr ize Competitions and oth er matters which will :tdvance the interest of the] ournal.

We particularly desire to ask our correspondents to be brief and o the point in any communications they may send us for publicati on.

Correspondents sending in photos are urgently requested to sta te on the back of the same the name of the individual or the Corps or Bri gade, and giv e al so the name and addre ss of the se nder.

We Leg to advi se our readers th at we do not pay for ph otographs or copy sent, unle ss previ ously agreed upon in writing.

" First Aid" is published on the 20th of the month.

EDITORIAL.

T HE pcean of praise which greated the The a dvent of Mr. Haldane's Territorial Territorial Forces and the St. John Ambulance Brigade.

Army Act is already commencing to die away, and from many different quarters one hears it queried as to in disbanding the old Volunteer Force we have not sacrificed the substance for th e shadow? One thing is quite certain there seems to be an e lement of d o ubt as to the meaning of many of the condi tions which govern e nlistm ent in the new force. To this, no doubt, must be ascribed the difficulties which, in many districts, commanding officers a r e experienc in g in their efforts to obtain the necessary 30 per cent. required by the authorities, prior to granting official sanction. The old hands hesitate to enter into a contract which may entai l serious financial obligations, whilst the likely recruit, seeing the seasoned Volunteer holds back, decides to wait and watch events prior to making up his mind.

Vie are, however, pleased to place on record that there is one branch of the Servic e , as to th e of whi ch th e re appears to be no question. We refer to the

Royal Territorial Medical Corps, which, according to the language of "the man in the street," "is going strong." There are several reasons which have act e d as factors to bring about this satisfactory result. Firstly, the present Director-General is a born administrator, and one who never fails to proat by past experience Secondly, Sir Alfred Keogh realised during the South African War that the medical arrangements in our Army were by no means as perfect as they should be, and immediately he had the reins of power placed in his hands, he at once set about quietly, but effectively, to organise and carry out many much needed reforms, and prior to taking any action in connection with the Volunteer branch of the Service, he very wist'ly entered into negotiations with eminent members of his own profession, and enlist e d not only their sympathy, but in many instances their active co-operation, with the result that to-day we have the healthy neucleus of a Medical Corps which will, we believe, be second to none.

We have in the preceding part of this editorial pointed out the difficulties which many commanding officers are experiencing in recruiting for the new force. How is it, therefore, that officers in command of medical units, many of which have only just sprung into exist ence with the birth of the new national force, are finding but little difficulty in obtaining capable recruits? We believe it IS largely due to the splendid voluntary work which for a nlatter of thirty years past has been jointly carried out by the medical profession and the laity under the auspic e s of the Order of St. John. When this grand old Order, in conformity with the noblest traditions of its historic past, again took up the r Ne of the" The Good Samaritan" and sought to inculcate the l'3ssons of sympathy and succour for the sick and suffering, its members undertook a mission which has not only earned the gratitude of their fellow citizens, but the results of which have on more than Ol:e occasion been of direct and signal service to the State. The services which its Amb..llance Department rendered during the South African Campaign are of too recent an origin to require repetition here, it sufficeth to say that it justly earned the gratitude alike of Kir.g and country. To-day its members would be equally ready to respond to duty ' S call should the nation r equire their services. That this

-FIRST

is so is amply evid e nced by it£ organisation of brigad e bearer companies, the Royal Naval Auxiliary Sick Berth Reserve, and the Military Home Hospitals Reserve, all of which are doing a good work, quietly and unostentatiously, but work which will give ample evidence of capable administration, and careful training should the occasion arise for the utilisation of the services of its members. It can thus be seen how strong is the link which binds the layman to his medical instructor.

It has been a labour of love with the latter to instruct the former in the principles of first aid, it therefore follows that the medical officers of the units in the Territorial Forces, having in many cases conducted am bulance classes in the localities in which the new unit is being raised, have an influence not possessed by the combatant officer in appealing for recruits. That the St. John Ambulance Association will form the nursery, so to speak, for the Territorial Medical Corps we firmly believe; that being so, we think the Army Medical Department will do wisely to foster and encourage a spirit of en camarade between the army and its civilian allies. In this direction there is one very important concession which might be made to medical and senior ambulance officers who volunteer for the Military Home Hospital Reserve. We unrlerstand that, in accordance wich present regulations, these gentlemen would, on mobilisation, be' accorded army rankmedical officers being allowed the rank of captain. But why wait for mobilisation? IVhy cannot these ranks be granted now and the officer's name placed on a special Arm y Reserve List?

Something in this direction is, we are sure, due to the officers of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, and it would be appreciated by all ranks.

There are many enthusiastic officers of both grades who are still actively engaged in ambulance work, but who, on account of the age limit, are debarred from joining the new force, but who would promptly place their services at the disposal of the authorities in the event of national emergency, as they did on the last occasion) and without fee or reward.

Sir Alfred Keogh has now a great chance of showing in a practical and graceful manner the gratitude of his department for valued assistance in the past, and' appreciation of the co-operation of the present. Will he grasp the suggestion? We are sure that the views which we have here expressed are those entertained by a large num ber of m:=mbers of the civilian service.

AI D.- May, I908. The Territorial Force.

lLKESToN.-On April {3th a well attended meeting was held at the Rutland Hotel, under the presidency of Alderman Horn, J.P., to consider a proposal to form a Field Ambulance for the County of Derbyshire.· SurgeonMajor R. H. Luce attended and explained the object of the meeting. In a telling speech he touched upon the wastage which occurred in time of war from disease, and paid a warm comoliment to the present Directo:-General of the Medical [or the efforts he was making to ensure that the new army was thoroughly equipped and efficient as regards its medical service. Derbyshire was called upon to provide a field- ambulance of 220 members. In Derby they had part of the Corps, and it was hoped that Ilkeston would help with a section. In Ilkeston they had an excellent officer in Hon. Surgeon and Supt. Dobson, who had expressed his willingness to take up the work. The SurgeonMajor then explained the terms of service and qualifications of its members.

SHEFFIELD.- This city has warmly taken up the new movement, and a capital start was given to the 3rd West Riding Field Ambulance at a meeting held at the Artillery Drill Hall on April 14th, when Surgeon-Major Adair attended and fully explained the objects of the Corps and the conditions under which the men would be enrolled. Recruits would have to enlist for four years, but those who transferred from the old Volunteer Service might sign on for one, two, three or four years.

In response to the appeal seven mem bers of the medical profession have already signified their willingness to join, and 7 men have sent in their names for enrolment. It is hoped that as the officers are coming in so readily, it will not be necessary for them to attend at the School of Instruction '1t Leeds, but that the Adjutant will hold classes at Sheffield. It is intended shortly to hold a meeting at Rotherham, where there are a large number of men who it is felt can be prevailed ulJon to join the new un,it

WHITSTABLE.-An enthusiastic meeting in connection with the new Royal Territorial Medical Corps was held here on April 16th, under the presidency of Mr. Sidney Brown, c.c., who was supported by several local gentlemen of infl uence.

MaYI 1908. -FIRST

to raise a complete section in Whitstahle which would ensure tbeir obtaining greater privileg e s. M e mbers who joined would do so fo: fou: years.. In first year they must put in 42 hours III dnll and JOstructlOn. In the succeeding years they would be called upon to put in ten hours and to attend the annual camp. It appeared that camp was the knotty point which seemed to worry intending recruits, but it need not do so. If a man could give a really substantial reason as to why he should be excused attendance the point would invariably be conceded.

A hearty vote of thanks was accorded Lieut. Henchley and the non -commissioned officers and men who had attended from Canterbury. The proposer of the vote sayina that they owed a deep debt of gratitude to men like Henchley and his collt:agues for the efforts they were making to ensure the success of the corps. It was to be hoped that it would be successful, and would do away once a nd for all with the bugbear of conscription.

" TIl eJour77al of tIle Royal Army M edz'cal C 01'15," says

AI D.-

wounded man while the other end of the loop is round the c h es t of th e ca rri e r, thus g ivin g in c reased support to the man carri ed, and throwin g less strain upon the single puttie. Both, these methods have b een found very useful for the transport of injured men JO broken or hilly country, and the appliances can be got ready in from fifteen to tw e nty-two seconds. In NO,3 method the two putties are so knotted to two rifles as to form nine crossbands, so making an improvised stretcher 44 in. long by 15 in. broad sufficiently long to accommodate an ordinary man, in a lying position, from th e head to the knees. This stretcher can b:! put together in one and three-quarter minutes, and the wounded man th e reon can be carried for some distance and in comparative comfort until at least the bearers come across the ordinary regulation stretcher. It has always seemed to us that the stretcher drill now taught to a certain percentage of the rank-and-file of regiments is devised too much on the principle that all the useful appliances will invariably be at hand; and we would suggest that the value of the instruction would be enhanced if

Sincere congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. E. Thiroux upon the birth of a d'1ughter, which hlppy event took place on May 1St.

Lieut. Henchley, M.D., who is in command of the Field Ambulance which has been formed in Canterbury, att<;nded and gave a spirited and lucid address. After a brief ailusion to the disorganisation which had characterised the old order of things, he went on to say that Mr. Haldane's scheme was recognised by all thinking men as an honest attempt to put the defensive forces of the country upon a proper footing. The scheme he had prepared necessitated the dividing of the country into sixteen divisions, each of which would be complete in itself. Each division would have attached to it three field ambulances, one cavalry ambulance, a stationary hospital and a general hospital. The sanitary de;partment would also play an important part in the new order of things, and it was hoped that the medical officers of health in each district would give their valued assistance in instructing the sanitary officers of the field ambulance in the choice of sites for camps and the provision of pure water supply. It spoke well for their patriotism that they in Canterbury had beell asked to raise a field ambulance A field ambulance consisted of 230 officers and men, and consisted of three sections. He hoped that in course of time they would be able

By c0 1l1·tcsy ]

[Doz'",) E-<jJ1"css.

THE MAYOR AND MAYORESS OF DOVER AND ASSISTANT-COMl\lISSlONER COTTON AT THE Al\IBULANCE INSPr:CTlON OF THE EA ST KENT CORPS AND DIVISIONS, S.J.A.B.

the BroadArro'W, "frequently contains mention of matters of other than mere medical interest, and which do not come within the purview of the regimental officer. In the April issue there is an account of how som e simple and ordinary a ppliance may be made use of for the carrying of the wounded off the field of battle. All the means necessary for uSe are putties of and by themselves, or putties and rifles. The method is fully described and illustrated by its inventor-Captain J. S. O'Neill, of the Indian Medical Service, now attached to the 2nd Battalion 8th Goorkha Rifles in Shillong. There are three methods-by means of one puttie only, by means of two putties, and with the aid of two putties and two rifles. It the first method a big loop is made in the puttie, which is then passed under the buttocks of tbe wounded man, the other end of the loop being held by the forehead of the carrier who takes up the other on his back. With two putties, the second is so looped as to pass over the back or shoulders of the

rough and ready methods of carrying injured and wounde? men-where regulation stretchers are absent, and where, If forthcoming they could, the of the country, with difficulty be used-mIght .b.e practised and

We think our esteemed mIlItary contemporary IS a tnfIe behind the times, various rough and ready methods of extemporising stretchers and othe: of transport are now and have been for a long whtle Slllce, taught; has our cont'emporary never heard of stretchers being. formed of tunics and rifles, or of transport by means or rifle slings. No doubt the idea of the puttIes IS excellent, but its principle can scarcely be quoted as new.

WINCHESTER.-Successful ambulance classes have been held in this city for many years past, and it has now been decided to form a division of the S.J.A.B. A presentation was recently made to Mr. G. Tanner, who has done excellent work in connection with the movement.

No. District (Metropolitan Corps.)

NO.2 (ST. JOHN'S GATE) NURSING DrvlsION.- The competition for the" Nursing Sisters Challenge Bowl" was held at Charterhouse on Saturday, 16th May. Eleven members competed. Miss A. Flood was, after a severe contest, declared the winner, Miss P. Halton being second.

No. 37 G. W. R (LOND::>N) DIVISION.- This Division held its fifth annual concert at Ladbroke Hall on Thursday, May 7th. The hon. secretary as usual secured the services of a first-rate company of artistes, prominent amongst whom were Mr. Chapman, A.R.A.M., at the piano, Miss Ethel Sanders, Miss Lizzie Sherwood, Mr. Felix Salmond ('cello), Mr. A. W. Allen (euphonium solo), Mr. Harry Lack and Mr. George Moir (humorists). Another item greatly appreciated was a saxophone quartette by mem bers of G.W.R and Paddington Borough Silver Prize Band, conducted by Mr. A W. Allen. A short display of first aid was smartly given by a squad of the Division under the direction of 2nd Officer A. E. Evans, after which Deputy-Commissioner Col. Lees Hall, M.V.O., presented vouchers, labels, and medallions to the members of the Division. Among the audience were Alderman and Mrs. Liddiard (ex-Mayor anQ Mayoress of Paddington), Hon. Surgeon and Mrs. Carvell, Supt. and Lady Supt. Mrs. J. Calvin Lines, several members of the Headquarter's Staff, 1st Nursing Officer Mrs. Barnes and Supt. W. H. Maunder.

No. 2 District.

DOVER.-Members from all parts of the district assembled here on the 20th of April last to participate in the annual Divisional Inspection. Hon Surgeon C Cotton, of Ramsgate, was the inspecting officer, and he was accompanied by Supts. Lawes (Dover), Mather (Ashford), Consoni (Ramsgate), Venis (Westgate), and Smith (Broughton). Mustering on the sea front at 2 o'clock, the men, who numbered over 100 strong, marched to the parade ground, College Close, accompanied by the drum and fife band of the Folkestone Division, where they were officially received by the Mayor and Mayoress. A short address of welcome was delivered by the Mayor, after which Dr. Cotton inspected the men, at the conclusion of which he .said he was glad to see the Brigade in such a highly satlsfactory state.

The whole of the arrangements where carried out by Supt. H. L. Lawes (Dover), who is to be congratulated on the results attained.

NEWTON ABBOT.-The sixth annual competition for the Devon and Cornwall Challenge Cup took place here on May 2nd. The judges were Lieut.-Col. Allport, R.A.M.C, and Major Blackham, R.A.M.C The competition, which lasted for about three hours, was Watched by a and representative audience, among those present bemg Mr. W. J. Watts, who presided, Lady Perrott, Miss Hare, and Capt. E. E. Morrison Bell, M.P., and Mrs.

A I D.- May, 1908.

Morrison Bell. At the conclusion of the contest the decision was announced as follows :-

1st, Newton Abbot No.2 (police) team, 18 5 points; 2nd, Exeter No. team, 165; 3rd, Cam borne NO.2 team, 161; 4th, Newton Abbot No. 1 team, 154; 5th , Exeter No.2 team, 140; 6th, Cam borne No. team, 13[; 7th , Torquay, 114·

The cup and prizes, consisting of silver matchboxes for each member of the winning team and gold sleeve links for the second and third teams, were gracefully handed to the recipients by Lady Perrott, who, in a neat little speech, apologised for the absence of Sir Herbert, who was unavoidably detained in London. As showing the spread of ambulance work, Sir Herbert had informed her that the number of certificates issued during the month of April exceeded that of any previous month. It was gratifying testimony to the value of the Brigade as a national organisation that the War Office had asked tr_e authorities at St. John's Gate to assist in forming a hospital reserve for service in military hospitals in case of national emergency. Enthusiastic cheers were given for her ladyship at the conclusion of her remarks, and Oll the proposition of Capt. Morrison Bell the judges were thanked for their services.

No. 4 District.

ACCRINGTON.-The seventh annual competltlOn for the Nursing Challenge Shield, open to Nursing Divisions in the North-Western District, was held in the Ambulance Drill Hall on Saturday, May 2nd. The following Divisions were represented: Nelson, Preston, Liverpool, Castleton, Brierfield, Bury, Rochdale, Ashton-under-Lyne, &c. Hon. Surgeon and Supt. Broomhead (Haslingden) and Hon. Surgeon and Supt. Cryer (Manchester) were the judges.Much interest was taken in the work of the Nurses by those witnessing the competition, and in the evening the various competitors, accompanied by their friends, assembled to learn the Judges' decision.

The presentation was made by Mrs. Haworth, in the absence of the Mayor. The shield was won by the Nelson team with 366 points out of a possible 500 Preston next with 353, and Liverpool third with 35 0 There was not a great disparity amongst the marks of the competing teams all through the competition, the lowest number gained being 279. The individual prize-a gold broochwas won by a nursing sister from Castleton.

The Deputy-Commissioner of the District, Col. Trimble, CM.G, V.D., who was also present, made one of his usually effective and happy little speeches. It was, he said, a great pleasure to him to be with them to encourage them and show his appreciation of the work done by the Nursing Divisions in the District.

Votes of thanks to the Judges, to Mrs. Haworth and others, brought the proceedings to a close.

HULME.-On May 5th the members of this division and a few friends assem bled at headquarters to attend a social and smoking concert. The company on the platform ' included Supt. Dr. Cryer, Hon. Surgeons Cran and Lund, Supt. Brunt, 1st Officers Barber (Salford) and Passman (Ardwick).

The secretary of the class gave a brief report, and stated that 27 men sat fur the certificate and 26 passed. Hon. Surgeon Lund, who lectured to the new class, presented the certificates, stating that he was very pleased with the result.

A well-arranged programme was placed before the

May, 1908

-=-FIRST

members and much appreciated. Mr. J. Race, L.L.M.S., acted as pianist. In the interval refreshments were handed round, after which Supt. Brunt, on behalf of the new class and division, handed to Hon. Surgeon Lund a silver mounted double inkstand, asking him to accept the token as an expression of goodwill and esteem.

In responding, the doctor said he was a little taken aback, as he had no idea the men valued his services so much. At the close of the doctor's speech, the whole company rose and sang" For he's a jolly good fellow."

No. 6 District.

Chief Hopper, of the Hull Corps, one of the most enthuslastlc .members in the North of England, and Supts. Bruce, Hlckey, and Purvis have resigned their appointments much to the regret of the staff and the several un its with whom their names are so familiar, and by whom they were so much appreciated.

The annual competitions for "Deputy Commissioners" Cup, Silver and Bronze Shields, "CB. Palmer" B?wl, and the" Ritchie" and" Atkinson" Nursing Bowls, wlll be held at Newcastle-on-Tyne, on May 30th, 1908, at 3 p.m. There are forty-three entries. The Whitsuntide Camp, which was to have been held at Whitley Bay, has been abandoned. Out of the enrolled strength of 200 up to the 5th May some 165 names only had sent in. This unsuccessful result is owing to the strike on the N.E. Coast, which is causing much distress in the district. The Deputy Commissioner has therefore postponed the Camp until the autumn.

A competition was held at Leasingthorne Colliery on the 2nd May, six teams entered, and Mr. Passy's team won the Silver Challenge Cup and Medals, presented by Mr. Green. Lieut.-Colonel Gibbon acted as judge.

The annual Brigade Church Parade will be held on Sunday, May 24th, Empire Day. The Divisions will parade at the N.E.R. Central Station, Newcastle-on-Tyne, at 10 a. m., and headed by the Felling Colliery Ambulance Corps Band, will march to St. Thomas' Church, Barras Bridge, when a special service will be held, the Rev. Dr. Harrison will officiate.

Two new divisions have been formed - one at Sunderland and the other at Shotton Colliery.

FELLlN G.-A social gathering in connection with the Felling Colliery Corps was held at the Church Institute on April 25th. C B. Palmer, J.P. (District Supt. of Stores), presided, and, in the cousre of an interesting address, traced the development of the Corps since its inception in 19 0 5, when its total strength was then 25 members, until the present day, when it stands at 13 2

Miss Angus having presented prizes, Dr. Millar proposed a vote of thanks to her for having so kindly undertaken the duty. This was seconded by Supt. Handyside carried with acclamation. A very pleasing little mterlude here took place, the Chairman presenting Miss Angus with a little silver souvenir spoon, brou!Sht from Malta, the ancient home of the Knights of St. John, and engraved with the eight-pointed cross.

In responding to the vote of thanks on behalf of his daughter, Colonel Angus said the work they were doing at Felling was a revelation to him.

Mrs. C B. Palmer having presented the certificates in the ladies' class, the Class Secretary was presented with a silver-mo unted umbrella, and the lecturer, Dr. Millar, received at the hands of Mrs. Bevan a silver hot-water jug

AID.-

in recognition of the services he had rendered to the ladies' class.

HULL.-On Sunday, May 3rd an interesting gathering for purpose of certificates, took place at the Spnnghead Locomotlve Works, Hull and Barnsley Railway. Opportunity was also taken of the occasion to make a presentation to Dr. H. Laslett, who had kindly instructed the class.

Mr. W. Gobey (Asst. Loco. Engineer) presided, supported Mr. M. Stirling (Loco Engineer), Mr. E. Watkins (General Manager), Mr. Vickers (Supt. of the Line), Mr. G. Scrum (General Secretary), Mr. J. Larder (Sec. of the Hull and Barnsley Railway Centre), District Chief Supt. J oh nson, H on. Surgeon Laslett, Supt. Wilson, &c. In presenting the certificates, 11r. Stirling said he hoped to be able in the future to more cl0sely associate himself with the work they were engaged in, and congratulated the successful students on having obtained their certificates. A presel1tation which took the form of two valuable medical works, was made to Dr. Laslett, in recognition of his valuable services. The doctor suitably returned thanks.

Mr. Watkins (General M3.nager), who has always taken a great interest in all that appertains to ambulance, also addressed the men and advised them to "go on" in the good work they had taken up.

A vote of thanks was accorded to Mr. Stirling for presenting the certificates on the proposition of Supt. Wilson.

District Chief Supt. Johnston then explained the mode of formation and the working of a division of the Sl. John Ambulance Brigade, and it was decided to form one in connection with the Springhead Locomotive Works. All present signed the register sheet and the following appointments were made, subject to the approval of the Chief Commissioner: W. E. Sellers to be hon. secretary; W. Bayford to be treasurer ; W. Bates to be insp ector of stores. Supt. Wilson, of the Neptune-street Division, promised to act as superintendent in charge for a few months, until the post of superintendent was decided. A hearty vote of thanks was accorded to Mr. Gobey for presiding.

NO.7 District.

GENERAL SIR CHARLES WARREN SHlELD.-The arrangements for the above competitions are nearly completed. The of the contest upon this occasion will be Mardy, S. Wales; the Mardy team being the winning team in last year's competition. Chief Supt. Tom Davies Rhondda Fawr Corps, the secretary, has been successful in securing a promise from the Most Hon. the Marquis of Breadalbane to present the prizes, &c., assisted by Mr. W. Ronfeldt chairman of lbe Locket's Westly Collieries. This will, we feel sure, be received with satisfaction, not only by the competing teams but by the Ylardy inhabitants in general.

A deputati.on from the Mardy and Eastern Divisions, of the Ocean Coal Company, Ltd., Ystrad, met IvIr. .W?1. Jenkins, J.P., managing director of the <?cean Colh.enes and president of the Sir Charles Warren with a view to securing his support for thelr dlVlslOn. Mr. Jenkins promised to £25 per annum. to the funds of the division, and to prOVIde ambulance apphances at each of the collieries.

PONTNEWYDD AND CWMBRAN.-Messrs. Guest; Keen and N ettlefolds having built a new Drill Hall for this

AID.- May, 1908.

May, 1908

A I D.-

division, the opening ceremony was on May 9 th by Mr. J. S. Martin, H. M. Insp ector of Mtnes. Mr. J. Davis under manager, occupied the chair, and during his remarks stated they had not had a single fatal accident at the colliery for over two years.

Mr. Martin also sp0ke at length on the value of ambulance training, and drew attention to the shield for teams consisting of miners in the S. Wales district.

Chief Supt. Beard commended the division upon its high of efficiency, and expressed the thanks of the brigade authorities to Messrs. Guest, Keen and N ettlefolds for their kindness in providing the division with a Drill Hall.

Responding to a vote of thanks, Mr. Weston Stevens, a director of the company, said if a Cwm bran team won the shield he would present them with £10. If, however, they succeeded in getting into the final, but failed to win the shield, he would give them £3. ----. --.

A Machine for Inducing Artificial Respiration.

IN our account of the \linin g Rescue Training School, which appeared in last month's issue, we referred to an invention which, if it fulfils all that is claimed for it, should prove a most valuable apparatus to assist in the restoration of the apparently dead from suffocation.

The inventor is Professor George Poe, an American scientist, who discovered its principles in the year r876, when in the course of some scientific experiments he succeeded in resuscitating a rat supposed to be dead, by the simple process of pumping oxygen into its lungs. Continuing his investigations he has, as a result, now apparently perfected an artificial respirator.

The apparatus is modelled as nearly as possible after nature. Experience has proved to the inventor that in order to revive persons drowned, suffocated, or whose death had been caused by amesthetics, it was necessary to remove the poisonous gases in the lungs, replacing them with oxygen, and it was to accomplish this double purpos e that his machine was constructed. The instrument consists of two small cylinders, each having an inlet and an outlet, plungers within these cylinders work simultaneously. Tubes lead from each of the cylinders, to be connected to the nostrils or mouth of the patient. The inlet of one cylinder is connected with a suitable supply of .and the outlet of the other cylinder discharges dIrectly lOto the atmosphere. The plungers are driven by hand, and timed to correspond to normal respiratory movements, and this action of the plungers in one movement draws the gases from the lungs into one cylinder , while the next movement forces oxygen from the second cylinder into the lungs. It is at once a simple yet device which anyone can quickly learn to manipulate.

Much of th.e danger of death during the administratIOn of ancesthetlcs should be minimised, if not altogether as the machine is capable of sustaining artificial respIratIOn as lon g as may be necessary. Those in a drunken stupor .should be roused and sobered by using the to qUIcken the respiration. In the case of per?ons 10 state of trance or, indeed, in any case where there IS doubt as to death having taken place, the of. the "respirator" should prove life IS actyally extlOCt. Every lire saving or rescue station should one, as indeed, sho uld all places where offiCIals are lIable to be called upon to restore respiration to persons suffering from suffocation.

The Frankfort First Aid Congress.

THERE is every indication that the forthcoming Congress at Frankfort-on-the- Main will prove a great success. Applications to participate in the Congress are being received daily, and it is now confidently anticipated that the attendance will be largely in excess of the number first estima ted. His Grace the Duke of Marlborough, K.G., who has taken the keenest interest in the Congress, and who hopes to be present, presided at a meeting of the British Committee on April 29th, when most satisfactory reports as to the progress of the Congress were reported.

Mr. S. Osborn, F.R C.S., the Hon. Sec. for Great Britain, has kindly favoured us with particulars as to the several routes and fares, and will be happy to give any further particulars to anyone interested in Ambulance or Life-Saving work who may be desirous of becoming a mem ber of the Congress and attending its meetings. Applicants should at once communicate with him at Datchet, near Windsor.

ROUTES

One of our correspondents asks us how to treat a case of fracture of the 11th and 12th ribs, right side, with injury to kidney? If our reader will refer to his" First Aid Text BJok" he will find that in the event of the kidneys being injured by a fracture of the lowest ribs (the IlLl1 and 12th), the treatment is to keep the patient quiet until the doctor arrives, and meantime apply hot fomentations over the painful or injured part. - ED., "F. A."

Where to stay at Frankfort during the "First Aid" Congress.

GRANO HOTEL CONTINENTAL. Oppo'site Central Station. FirsL-class Fam ily lIotel. Best Com [ort. Charges. Room s from 25. 6d. upw_ard5.

Telegraphic Address: "Continenthotel, Frankfurtm::tin."

THE ENGLISH

KIRCllNER·BRAUSER, Proprieto r. PENSION, 61

Central posiLion. Tram No. 17 [rol11 the S,aLion. MRS. El\1ERSONJ

Coming Events.

Particulars oj jortizcollting eve n.ts will be inserted in tltis (olullt ll (ree 0/ If received not late?' than tize I4tlt oj eaclt mOlttlt.

Bn/:llOuse - The Annual Fire Brigade and Ambulance Competitions, in connection with the Brighouse Friendly Societies and Trade Demonstration, will take place on June 13th next. Hon. Secretary, S. Widdop, 19, Thornhill-road, Rastrick.

Clecldteaton. -The second annual ambulance competition will take place here on June 20th. For further particulars apply to Mr. G. Haley, Roberts-square, Cleckheaton.

CIti/JpenltClm.- The Annual Fire Brigade Competitions will be held here at Whitsuntide. Challenge shields and silver cups to the value of £130, in addition to money prizes, will be competed for. Particulars of C.O. H. S. Phipps, Union-road, Chippenham.

Crystal Palace.-Annual tournament of the London Private Fire Brigades Association, July 18th. Han. Sec., Mr. C. IIaswell, 7, Marlborough-road, Woodford, Essex.

Dewsbury.- The "Thomes" Cup Competition will be held here on June 1!th. Prizes value £6. Supt. Sec., C. Thornes, 7'2 , Westgate, Dewsbury.

Fmnkjo1''t-01l-ilJain.- The 1st International First Aid and Life Saving Congress will be held here during Whitsuntide from June 9 th to 13th. An Exhibition in connection with the congr('ss will also be held at the Velodrom. Particulars ofHon. Sec. Br ittish Committee, S. Osborn, Esq., F.R.C.S., Datchet, near Windsor.

Lessines.-The committee of the Belgian Federation has decided to hold its 19th Congress here, on the 1 I th, J 2th and 13th of July next, in co njunction with Namur. The Committee is very :lllxiollS to see a numher of English officers and firemen at this gathering. Special facilities are offeree!. Farticulars of Mr. C. Kusel, .')6, Newton-road, Westbourne-grove, London. W.

London. - A meeting of the Eastern District, N.F.B.U., will be held at the Liverpool-street Hotel on Saturday, May 30 th, at 3 p. m.

illar((y.- The "Sir C. Warren" Shield competition for Rhone!da Valley, will be held on Saturday, June 1.1th. Secreta ry, Mr. Tom Davis, Rhondda Fawr Corps, Ton Pentre, C lam.

Namur.- The 19th Congress of the Belgian Federation will be held here on June 6th, 7th, and 8th next. I t is hoped that a good many English firemen will attend.

Paris.-An international competition has been arranged by the Union de la Seine, to be held here at Whi tsuntide. English steamer brigades are invited to take part. Particulars of Mr. C. Kusel, 36, Newton-road, Westbourne-grove, London.

Pontefract.- The compe tIti on for tbe "Pontefract" Challenge Shield will be lleld at tbe Drill Hall on June 20tb. Full particulars of Mr. J. S. Brodie, Baghill Station, Ponlefract.

Scarb01'ou.r;lt - Tbe Camp and Competitions of tbe N.F .B.U. will be held here from July loth to 17th. Further particulars from the Gen. Hon. Sec. Chief Officer Hill, Bedford.

Hearty cOYJgratulations to Mr. W. J. Church-Brasier on the anniversary of his natal day, June 9th. One of our correspond ents, who recently paid a visit to Margate, informs us that" The Chief" was lookin g better. We feel sure the host of friends of Mr. Brasier will be pleased to learn this satisfactory report, and also to congratulate him.

Water Bottle Fitted with Sterilizable Cap and Stopper.

WE have received from the manufacturers one of these new and improved water bottles, the invention of Chief Surgeon Bond, of the Brighouse Corps S.J.A.B. The bottle is made of stout gauze copper, the interior having a thin coating of galvanized zinc, and is therefore thoroughly reliable and will stand rough wear. The special advantages, however, which are claimed for the bottle is that it is fitted with a stopper, on the underside of which is fixed a cup capable of holding 30zs., which fits in the interior of the neck of the bottle, there is therefore no dirty and uncleanable cork. The cup is kept clean and is readily taken off and put on, the whole can be easily sterilized, the washer being of asbestos cloth is practically undestructable and renders the bottle air-tight. The stopper itself is well made, the catch is a good one and gives a firm grip or bite nearly one-third of the circumference, but is readily moved when necessary. A collapsible handle can be fitted Lo the bottle, which will allow it being placed on a fire and water boiled therein.

This bottle has undoubtedly many great and distinct advantages over the water bottle at present in use, and should commend itself to officers both in the military and St. John Am bulance units. It will be possible to sterilize the water in the bottle and now that it is recognised that much of the preventable disease in campaigns is due to the drinking of contaminated water, an appliance which renders such dangers less possible should be take n advantage of.

A sample bottle and all particulars will be sent for inspection to Superintendents of Corps and Brigades on application to Mr. Henry Booth, 24, Commercial-street, Brighouse, Yorks.

FELIX STOW.- - General Preston, R.N., attended here last month and inspected the members of the local division who are enrolled in the Royal Nav al Auxiliary Sick Berth Reserve. The men were put through the regulation drills and also sUb.mitted to. a vi'va vdce examination, at the close of which the mspectIOg officer expressed his entire satisfaction all he had seen. Especially praiseworthy was the qUIet and gentle manner in which the patients were handled and placed on the stretcher. He had inspected men in all parts of the country but never men so efficient in every as he had met that day. Referring to the questIOn of tralOing on a man of .var, the inspecting officer said he was pleased to hear that all of those preser:t had been that course. By so doing they had gamed a good mSlght into what their work on board ship would be like. At the same time, although this training was useful as far as it went, it did not go far enough. Many?f the men of the R.N.S.B.R. thou ght, and he agreed WIth them, that one course only of seven days was enough., and the question of giving them furteer tramIOg, of eIther seven days each year, or fourteen days other year, was now under consideration by the authontles.

When corresponding with Advertisers please mention" First Aid."

Brevities.

THE difference in the method of instruction and examination for junior officers of the Mercantile Marine, qualifying for the Ambulance Certificate is arousing considerable opposition amongst the large shipowners and others in the northern portE'. It cc-rtainly does seem only reasonable that the rules relating to the examination should be exactly alike in all ports of the United Kingdom, and we should think as a result of the agitation some compromise will have to be arranged.

* * *

IT is encouraging to see how persistently Dr. Waldo, the City Coroner, continues to point out the inadequacy of our present ambulance arrangements outside" the one square mile." It's somewhat amusing too, to notice how the daily press invariably seize upon his remarks and publish them adding a few tommcnts by one of the editorial staff, which would lead the uninitiated to believe that it was only just now begining to dawn upon the authorities that it was necessary to have a more up-to-date ambulance service instead of being a replica of the old old story of twtlve or thirteen years ago. Thus our contemporary Tlz e Evening Standard on the 29th of last month, had a special article on "Street Accidents: Suggested Re-Organisltion of Ambulance System" and in this, the writer hashed up all the old with which we are all now so familiar, and, alas, most of his facts were fiction.

* * *"

THE information that it has been proposed to construct motor ambulances, &c, is decidedly refreshing. Has our contemporary never heard of the City of London's "White Swan?" Does he never peruse the illustrated journals? The suggestion of Dr. J. S. Rodgers, of Dundee is certainly good, but we fear that that gentleman lay claim to any originality, for his suggestion for the am bua:arm already exists in certain towns, including the ltttl.e VIllage of London. We are at all times willing to our contemporaries, and therefore we have pubthe suggestion, in order that, belated though it is, It may have a chance of being brought under the notice of Ambulance Associations of the United Kingdom.

* * *

AONTHER "Rip van Winkle" appears to be attached to the staff of our contemporary the Medical Press. This individual is responsible for the following paragraph : _ "AMDULANCE ALARMS."

"The proper organisation of first aid is clearly a matter of I.mportance to modern citizens. Needless to say, the and safe transport of injured persons is, in many Inslances, no Jess essential to successful treatment than the existence of a well-equipped hospital at the end of the journey. Ambulance stations are now available in London and some other large cities, while various hospital, muni-

cipal, and police services are also available for the same purpose. Recently it has been proposed to construct motor ambulances, each carrying a skilled attendant who would be able to apply first aid on the road to hospital. The am bulance cen tre, to be of an y general service, must obviously kept in touch with various parts of the district in which it lies by telephonic communication. So far as railway stations and large centres of industry are concerned, a good suggestion has been made by Dr. J. S. Rodgers, of Dundee, namely, that an ambulance alarm should be installed after the manner of a fire alarm. The call being made, the trained ambulance men would fall in at a given spot, just as those trained to fire-drill would rendezvous at the fire signal. The suggestion seems practical, and should be brought to the notice of the Ambulance Associations of the United Kingdom."

* * *

ADDRESSING the East Kent units of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, his Worship the Mayor (Walter Emden, Esq.), who is well-known to most as an open hearted and hospitable. host, said the work they-the Brigadewere engaged in was a grand movement, having as its aim the lessening of the aggregate of human suffering. People were taught that they had a great dea.l of work to do in these days, and very strenuous work too, and yet these men with all their work and the way in which they had to compete with very little help against foreign countries, were willing to give a considerable portion of their time for love of fellow creature. Charity or love, as it was called, was the great centre thing upon which everything in the world hung. Without it there was no sunshine, and without it there were few who would pass pleasant or happy lives. It was the love of others that made their lives happy, and it was the charity they showed to those in distress which made them to a great extent happy. Men like the memhlers of the St. John Ambulance Brigade who devoted so much of their time to the benefit of others deserved not only a kindly thought and encouragement, but any town was proud to receive them, and every Mayor and Corporation desired to be of every service they could to them. He was pleased to see them there that day, and trusted their work would go on increasing in the future, and continue to give that unselfish attention to helping others which they had given so well and unselfishly in the past.

TH.E who inspected the units upon thiS occaSIOn was not qUite so happy in his remarks. Referring to the splendid services rendered by members of the brigade in the late South African campaign, Dr. Cotton said it was a glorious thing for a man to fight and get a V. c., but it was a still more glorious thing for the man who went out mid shot and shell and aided the wounded. That man had a better right to the V.c. than the man who carried a wounded comrade inlo safety.

N ow no patriotic Englishman would desire to minimise

-

May, 19 08 . -FIRST

the magnificent services which members of the brigade rendered to the Empire in her hour of need, but it is not generous to magnify the services rendered by your own cult by be-littling the gallant actions of others. It is well known that many brave men have gained the V.c. for the very actions Dr. Cotton refers to, attending the wounded in spite of shot and shell in front of the firing line.

"Dewar" Shield Competition, 1908.

PRELIMIN AR Y com peti tions for the purpose of selecting a representative corps or division for the final competition at the Portman Rooms, were held in several of the districts, and we have been courteously favoured with the results of the following :-

L.

&

AiD. -

Royal Territorial Corps, and Assistant-Commissioner T. H. Woolston, No. 3 Central and Eastern District.

The viva voce examination and individuai bandaging were taken before lunch, the afternoon being set apart for stretcher work.

Thanks to the thoughtfulness of the executive of the Y. M. C.A. in placing their billiard and bagatelle tables at the disposal of the competitors, the men were able to spend a pleasurable time when not at work and this courteous attention was greatly appreciated.

The whole of the arrangements were carried out by the. local officers and redounds to the credit of following: Chief Supt. Harvey Reeves, Supt. Sec. Wilkinson, Supt. of Stores Gardner, Supt. Rice and First Officer Adnitt.

The result was declared amidst loud cheers and Lieut.-Col. Sidp.botham, in giving his decision, said he had no hesitation in saying that the performance of the winning

Y. Rv. (NORTH MERSEY LIVERPOOL)-WINNERS OF THE INTER-RAILWAY SHIELD, I908

NO.2 DISTRICT.-The teams competing for the rigbt to represent this district met at St. John'S Gate on Saturday, April 25th, where most complete &rrangements had been made by the courteous headquarters staff. After a keen contest th e decision was announced as follows :-Ashford (Kent), 232 points; Gloucester, 22I; Chichester, 158t.

No. 3 DISTRICT.- The District competition in connection with the contest tock place at the new headquarters of the Northampton Corps, on Saturday, April 25th.

The teams competing were: Birmingham, Cromer, Leicester, Northampton, Overseal, and Wellingborough. North-East Warwickshire, who had entered, were unfortunately ob li ged to withdraw owing to the illness of a member of the team.

The Judges were: Lieut. -Col. G. W. Sidebotham, Border Mounted Brigade Field Ambulance, Welsh Division

team was equal, if not surpassing, anything he had ever seen in ambulance work. In saying that he did not wish to belittle the work done by the other teams, which was exceedingly g::>od. Anyone who watched the work could have no doubt as to the merit of the local team.

Results :-I, Northampton, 343 marks; 2, Wellingborough, 298; 3, Cromer, 288 4, Birmingham, 27 8 ; 5, Leicester, 245 6, Overseal, 219}-

The Northampton team has had the honour of representing NO.3 District in the final for the past three years, and has held the "Symons-Eccles" Cup for the la3t two years.

No. 5 DISTRlcT.-On April th.e various teams aspiring to the honour of representIng thiS district mustered at the Corn Exchange, Sbeffield. The competing teams represented the following corps and divi-

W. H. Parkinson, T. Pickering, T. Doyle, J. A. l\Iaudesley (reserve ), D. Robinson. Mr. H. E. Mellor ( Hon. Sec. of L. & Y. Ry. Centre. G. J. Tucker ( Captain )

sions. Halmarend, Ilk eston, Potteries Electric Traction (P.E.T.), Shelton NO.1 team, Shelton NO.2 team, Shipley and Sutton.

The teams were put through a keen and searching examination in both practical and viva vdce work by the several judges, District Chief Supt. H. C. Else, Chief Surgeon E. Barker-Barber, H on. Surgeon and Supt. A. Aitken Clark, Hon. Surgeon V. G. S, Deardon and Dr. \Y. Darwens. Members of the Sheffield Corps acted as patients.

At the close of the judging, which lasted about two and a half hours, Hon. Surgeon and Supt. Clark announced the result as follows;- The Potteries Electric Traction Co.'s Division first with 302 points; I lkeston second with 263. The maximum number of points which could be obtained were 350.

In addressing the winning team, Dr. CIa) k advisE.d them to go in for further study for the viva vOce part of the examination, as they were better in their practical 'work and stretcher drill than in answering questions. District Chief Supt. Else also addressed a few kindly words of advice to the winning team, pointing out that they must now remember that they not only represented their own division hut the whole of the North Eastern District, and should they succeed in winning the Shield, they would succeed in doing what no other squad in the district had previously been able to accomplish He wished them every success. Chief Surg Barker-Barber also spoke a few encouraging ,rords. /'/10/0 by]

- The annual preliminary competition in

connection with this district took place at the T0wn Hall, Abergavenny, on April 25th. Nine teams entered. The winning team in this district is entitled to hold for twelve months th e" Griffiths" Cup, the handsome trophy presented to the district by Deputy Commissioner J. S. Griffiths, in memory of his late brother, Dr. Arthur Griffiths, whose untimely death is still deplored in the district. The winning team was again Newport, this being the third occasion upon which Chief Surgeon Hamilton's smart team has carried off this coveted trophy.

The Inter=Railway Ambulance Competition.

THE round in this competition was as usual held at St. John's Gate, Clerkenwell, taking place on April 30th , and May 1St. The judges were Dr. J. Forbes, of London, and Dr. C. Lapage, of Nantwich, and the result declared as follows

May, 1908 -FIRST cannot always expect to win, we have had a fair share," and it must be conceded that they have, for the little fen town has a record of which its townsmen may be justly proud.

The following was the problem for the squad as a whole :-

You see a man slip on a banana skill; he makes a violent effort to save himself, but falls forward. As he does so he throws out his right band, which comes in contact with a sharp flint. You find him with h is left lower limb quite helpless, and there is arterial bleeding from a wound in the palm of the right hand. The bleedlJ1g is not so severe as to lead you to suppose that the deep palmar arch is wounded.

(1.) Perform the immediate treatment clearly necessary.

(2 .) Nos. 1 to 4 may consult. NO·4 is then to tell the judges from what injuries the patient is probably suffering, bearing in mind what has been stated above.

AID.-

(3.) How would you treat an abdominal wound with the intestines protruding?

(4 ) State the causes and treatment of suspended respiration.

EASTERN DISTRICT, N.F.B.U.-As a result of an appeal made on behalf of the widow and orphans of the ldte E. C. Phelps (second coachman), of the llford Fire Brigade, the district has been able to hand over the sum of £32 17s. to the deceased survivors.

An advertisement in this Journal is the cheapest traveller you can have.

The wl101e of the arrangements were, as usual, most tfficiently carried out by Mr. W. R. Edwards, accountant of the Order of St. John, who acts as hon. secretary to the Committee, which is composed of representatives from the several railway companies.

The final heats in the Annual Competition for 19 08 for the Railway and "Dewar" Shields took place at the Portman Rooms on May 5th. The judges for th e Railway Competition were Drs. J. A. Sutherland (Cleckheaton) and E. C. Fenhoulet (Herne Bay). As is usual upon the occasion of this competition, the ambulance employes of the various railways, and their friends mustered in strong fnrce to witness the efforts made by each team to secure the covet ed trophy. Owing to th e previous successp.s of the G.E.R. team from March they were strong favourites, although the members of the team th emselves were not too sanguine indeed, one was heard to remark "We

3. ) Treat the injuries stated on a card that the iudge will hand to you.

(

(

j.) State the signs, symptoms and treatment of crushed pelvis. The fracture is complicated.

The maximum number of points in each part of the competition was Ioo-giving a grand total of 300, and the following is the order in which the teams finished. As :vill be seen, the finish in some cases was very close, and It was quite apparent that the judging of such well-trained squads was not a task of an easy character. This is the second time that the L:wcashire ar;d Yorkshire Railway have been successful in securing premier honours :POINTS.

I.-Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway - - 24St

z.-Alexandra Docks and Railway (N ewport ) - 2_+£

3.- The Midland and Great Northern Joint Railway - 229 [{'iear)', Clapham junctioll.

LA DY LONDONDERRY PRESENTING THE PRIZES TO THE SUCCESFUL TI£Al\IS.

4.-North-Eastern Railway

The following were the individual tests for each member of the team :-

(1.) Compound of. left arm elbow The fracture is complicated With artenal bleedl11g. ACCident occurs out of doors.

(2.) A bullet passes through and fractures two metacarpal bones, hxmorrhage 15 not SerIOllS.

(3.) Fracture of ribs on right side with hxmorrhage from lungs.(4.) Stab in left cheek With severe artenal bleeding from facial artery.

(

5.) Snake bite of the left ankle.

The following were [he individual questions Jl1 the cli7'a V/ice examination:-

s -Great Eastern Railway

6. Great \Vesteln RaIlway -

{

7.-The i\lersey Railway - -

S - South-Eastern and Chatnam Railway

9.-Furness Railway

- 227 - 226-b- :!33t - 223 J - 21 9 - 21

The judges in the Brigade Competition wer3, for stretcher case, Hon. Surgeon J. M. and for individuJ.I bandaging and viva vuce, Chief Surgeon Hayman and Hon. Surgeon G. Davis.

(

1. ) State the signs, symptoms and treatment of phosphorus(2.)poisoning. State fully tbe treatment of poisoning by Prussic acid.

Althouah the Brigade competition does not as a rule excite the sabme amount of enthusiastic interest that is taken in the fi a ht for the Railway Shield, it was closely watched by a keenly audience. It was rumoured that Ley ton and Leytonstone were a very teal?, and many were inclined to forecast the verdict 111 then favour. Others,

22. Great Central Railway 23. North Staffordshire Railway I8S 181

24. London and North Western and Furness Joint Railways.

however, who had witnessed Northampton's previous attempts, and were cognisant of the high encomiums passed upon their skill by the judge when they won their preiiminary heat, were satisfied that they would make a strong effort to secure first place. As will be seen from the result, the first three teams were very close indeed; every team strove to win, and no district has reason be ashamed at the result. The best team undoubtedly won, but failure to win on this occasion, should only serve to spur on the losing teams to greater efforts in the future. We spotted more than one likely champion team amongst the smart and well set up teams which competed. The Order of St. John has reason to be proud of its citizen army, when it can turn out from various parts of the country, men who for physique, smartness and skill in ambulance work, could hold their own against any similar organisation anywhere.

The following was the result ;-

I.-Northampton Corps, NO.3 District... 225:1

2. - Kendal Division, NO.4 District 224t

3. - Ashford (Kent) Division, NO.2 Distri ct 223t

4.- Le yton and Leytonstone Division, No. District 211i

5. - Newport ( Mon. ) Corps, NO.7 District

6.- North Staffordshire Corps (P.E.T. ), NO.5 District... 2081

7.-Felling Colliery Corps, No.6 District J62f

The following were the individual questions ;-

(

1. ) Describe the pupils of the eyes and the conditions;

( I ) I n health, in (3) in apoplexy, (4) in

( 5) Jl1 famtmg, (6) in epilepsy, (7) in opium pOIsonmg.

(2) Gi.ve symptoms and treatment of the following metalltc pOlsonl.ngs : Sugar of lead, verdigris, and mercury.

(3. ) GIve sIgns and symptoms of dislocated shoulder and treatment.

(4. ) How would you treat a child who had been drinkirl g very water out of a kettle and was suffering from severe scalds Jl1 mouth and throat, and severe scalds outside of mouth and throat.

At D.- May, 1908.

that the ambulance movement owed much to the members of the medical profession, who were at all times ready and willing to devote much of their little leisure to this grand humanitarian work.

Lord Knutsford proposed a vote of thanks to Lady Londonderry for so kindly attending and presenting the awards In Lady Londonderry, said his lordship, they had an admIrable for Her Royal Highr.ess, for she was keenly lOterested in the kindred work of the Red Cross Society, and was herself a certificated pupil of the St. John Ambulance Association.

The vote was carried with acclamation.

Lady Londonderry, who personally returned thanks for the vote of thanks, made a charming little speech. Ste was, her Ladyship, perhaps the only person present who dId not regret the absence of Her Royal Highness. It to herself a great to be associated in any way wIth ambulance work. Every credit was due to those men who so willingly sacrifice their own time, in order to ohtain the necessary instruction, to enable them to alleviate and minimise the sufferings of others.

.A. vote of thanks to the Marquis Breadalbane [or presldlOg, and to l\1r. W. R. Edwards for the very excellent services he had rendered as Hon. Secretary to the Competition, brought the meeting to (t close.

GUESSING VERSUS FIRST AID.

By AN AMBULANCE JUDGE.

Is guessing to be a feature in the ambulance competitions of the future?

I have heard that the test for the stretcher work at the Inter-Railway Competition on the 15th inst. was as follows :-

May, 19 08 -FiRST

Making a diagnosis of a man's injuries without sufficient details being given in the question or test is pure guess work and does not necessarily produce the best team. By a "guessing" question, I mean a question that admits of more than one answer. The following is a sample. I was told it a short time ago :- " A signalman is found in his cabin insensible with a rabbit-pie near him. What was the cause of his insensibility?" "Choking," was the answer required by the judge. But it is readily seen that other conditions would answer the question.

If the test question in the Inter-Railway Competition admits of any other answer than wbat the judges require, then I submit it is a guess. Will the judges have the courage of their opinions and give us thl ir answer?

The competitions held by the St. John .l\mbulance Association ought to be the best of the kind in the country, and ought to set the example for fair and straightforward work; and if the element of guessing is going to be introduced then the whole work will deteriorate. Wbatever will the provincial competitions be like next year if this kind of thing be countenanced?

There are other methods of developing first aid and of finding out the capabilities of the candidates and I sincerely trust that these will be tried and exhausted before we go on to speculative tests.

In making these remarks, I have not the slightest desire to hint that the Judges did not select the best team, or apart from the question at issue, did not act perfectly fairly, but in my opinion all tests in which guessing forms a part ought to be eliminated, and first aid, pure and simple, ought to form the basis of the work.

AI D.-

Sanitary Committee. He was also one of the Corporation's representatives on the Joint Hospital Board, which has the control of the hospital for infectious cases. As medical officer to the various clubs and the local branch of the N.S.P.C.c., he had gained the regard and esteem of his humbler townsmen on account of the kindly sympathy he always showed in illness.

As a volunteer Dr. Russell had rendered yeoman service to his country. Commencing bis military career whilst a student at Edinburgh University, he remained in the service until it was dis banned, his last appointment being that of Surgeon-Major, with the honorary rank of Lieut.Colonel in the West Surrey Vlllunteer Infantry Brigade. He held the volunteer officer's decoration, and in his earlier days was a capital marksman.

For sixteen years the Doctor had held the position of Chief Surgeon of the National Fire Brigades' Union, resigning the appointment in the latter part of last year. In the discharge of the duties appertaining to the office, he was most assiduous, his services being always at the disposal of

(

5. ) Give signs, symptoms and treatments for Injury to stomach.

The following were the tests in individual practical work; -

r. ) Treat fracture of 5th and 7th right ribs with injury to lungs.

(

(

2. ) Treat simple fracture of leg occurring out of doors.

(3. ) .wound of forehead arterial bleeding; fracture Jl1 neIghbourhood of elbow Jomt, Jl1door treatment.

(4. ) Treat compound fracture of the right wrist with clean wound , and arterial bleeding. '

(

5. ) Treat fractu re of right clavicle.

At the presentation of prizes which subsequently took place the Most Noble The Marquis Breadalbane, K.G. (Dir.ector of the Ambulance Department of the Order), presIded, and was supported by the Marchioness of Londonderry (who, in the of H.R.H. the Princess of Wales, had kindly underta.ken the presentation), Viscount Knutsford, G.C.M.G., Col. SIr Herbert and Lady Perrott, Sir Richard K.C.I.E., .Deputy Inspector General Matthew Coates, R.N., Col. Wilson, C.B., Major Yates, Mr. W. R. Edwards, &c.

In Lady Londonderry to the meeting, the chann:an, whIle expressing regret at the absence of H.R.H. the Prmcess of Wales, expressed their gratitude to Lady Londonderry, in whom, he was sure, they had a very excellent deputy.

I:Ier I/1.dyship, before presenting the various handsome trophIes and valuable prizes to the several teams, handed to the G.E.R. team the tablet awarded for their victory in 19 0 7.

On the proposition of Mr. J. L. Wharton a vote of thanks was accorded to the judges, the speake; remarking

"You see a man slip on a banana skin he makes a violent effort to save himself, but falls forward. As he does so he throws out his right hand, which comes in contact with a sharp flint. You find him with his left lower limb helpless, is arterial bleeding from a wound 111 the palm of hIS rIght hand. The bleeding is not so severe as to lead you to suppose that the deep palmar arch is wounded.

"(I.) Perform the immediate treatment clearly necessary.

"(2.) Nos. 1 to 4 may consult. NO.4 is then to tell judge. injuries the patient is probably sufferIng, beanng 111 mlOd what has been stated above.

" (3.) Treat the injuries stated on a card that the judge will hand you."

This test is good as far as paragraph numbered 2 where the competItor has to state from what injuries the patient is probably suffering, and here the element of speculation and guessing is introduced in a strong form. With a hesitation. one put down the followmg 111Junes whIch would be 111 the lIst ;-Concussion of brain, fractured clavicle, dislocated shoulder fractured humerus, impacted fractured radius above the dislocated hip, femur, fractured patella, ru'ptured muscle of thIgh, dIslocated knee and sprained ankle. There are probably m.ore, but these are sufficient for my argument. I feel cer,tam that the judges did not want all these injuries mentioned, but must have selected some' therefore, the selection of three or four out of a dozen red uces the test to a GUESSING COMPETITION.

As an ambulance judge of many years' experience, I feel bound to utter a strong protest against this innovation.

THE LATE LIEUT.-COL. F. R. RUSSELL, M.D. ,J.P.

THE news of the death of Lieut.-Col. Russell, after a comparatively short illness, came as a great shock to his many friends, by wbom it was received with the most profound and sincere regret.

Dr. Russell had enjoyed good health up to a few weeks ago, when he was taken seriously ill with beart trouble. The serious nature of the attack was at once apparent, and the services of Sir Lauder Brunton were requisitioned. The eminent specialist took a grave view of .I?r. Russell's condition, but as a result of a subsequent VISit he was able to report more favourably ?f the Unfortunately, hOVvever, in spite of all that medical skill could do the end came on Sunday, May loth. He was engag.ed in chatting quite cheerfully witb tbe nurse 111 when without a moment's warmng he suddenly explreo. The immediate cause of death being due to a clot of rcaching the heart.

Some time since the doctor was thrown from hIS trap, and we understand that this was the primary cause of the formation of the clot.

The deceased gentleman, ,:ho born. in 18 53, ,:as a Scotchman by birth, and receIved hiS medl.cal at the Edinburgh University. Coming to GUlldford th.e year 1882, he subsequently Dr. C. J. Sells 111 .hls and became hIS partner. As a practitioner he was WIdely known, and held 111 the hIghest esteem in Guildford and the adjacent towns. As a member of local Town Council his services most valuable. He was chairman of the Health CommIttee and of the Food and Drugs Committee, and an active member of the

P ltoto by [Sltawcyoss, Gll ild.ford. the Council when required. He numbered amongst. bis personal friends many prominent of the Ul1lon, and by no class will he be more smcerely mourned. l!-e was a keen enthusiast in ambulance work and was o.n Examining Staff of the St. J ASSOCIatlOn and Honorary Surgeon to the GUlldford DIVISIon of the St. John Ambulance Brigade.

At a special meeting of the Town Co.uncll, the (Alderman J. Baker) presiding; the follOWIng res?lutlOn on the proposition of His Wors.hl p was 'passed m sI.lence, the members standing, "That thIS CouncIl ItS deepest sympathy with Mrs. Russell in the sad and ureparable loss she has sustained by the deatb of her husband."

Several of the members in the course of their remarks the sad event made touching allusion to the loss the town had sustained by the death of Dr. one and all testifyina to his sterling worth and devotIOn to any duty he to perform. Dr. Niall, old valued colleague both in a public and profeSSIOnal aptly summed up the many traits in his character had gained for him such good will. "D:. said speaker "would be missed not only m GuIldford, but 111 its neighbourhood, in many a humble home. He never

I74 -FIRST

spared himself, and' his noblest epitap h would be th at hc was regretted by the poor, and that he died in harness, J) Mr. evill, said, "It had been said, and he thought truly said, that the finest monument that could be raised to any man were the tears of t h e poor, and Dr. Russell would be sincerely and deeply mourned by many to whom he had indeed been a friend in the truest sense,"

The first part of the funeral service took place on Wednesday afternoon, May 13th, at St. Saviours' Church, of which the deceased ge ntleman was a sidesman. At 2,30 a procession wac; formed up in the High -st reet consistmg of represent a tiv es of the Surrey Imperial Yeomanry, the 5th Batt. Queen's Own West Surrey Regiment, the Fire Brigades' Union, the Guildford Division St. John Ambulance Brigade, and the Borough Police. We a re ind t=;bte d to the S?I7're) Adve7't iser fo r the portraIt block o f Dr. Russell.

AI D.- May, 1908.

e n gaged thr ee bands, one of them bei n g the celebrated band of tbe lJurball1 Light Infantry. Numerous other entertainments have also been arranged including Firemen's Sports, Confetti Carnival, Firework Display, Torchlight Procession, and M ilit ary Tattoo, and a Gala night at th e Spa. There will also be given every night conce rt s a nd other a musements in the men's canteen.

Amongst those who hav e promised to v isit the camp during the we e k are th e Lord Bishop of Kensing t on, who wi ll pr eac h at the Church Parade, on Sunday, July 12th the Earl of Lond esbo rou g h, the Duke of Marlborough, and Mr. Guy Pym. The Countess of Londesborough also h opes to atlend to present the prizes on Children's Day, July 17th. The Tournam e nt Committee earnestly desire that as many Brigades of the Union will make an effort t o attend and make the camp a th oro u g h success, and they have afttr carefu l consideration arranged that the charge for Firemen be 4S. per day inclusive.

May,

AI D.- 175

DE;\R S n , - \Voulcl yo u kindly inform me through the medium of your valuable paper, which is the correct stretcher drill now in use as given in "Cantle s First Aiel to the I njured ?" \Ve are just now putting new members through a class of instruction, and have re ceived the latest edition of the Textbook and we find that the 4-man drill is quite different as reg<lrds numhering off and position at stretcher to that in the former edition.

vVe Q?'e in no way responsible jor the opinion s expnssed, 0 1' the statements made, by Con'esjJondents.-EDITORS.

FRACTURED PELVIS, METHOD OF REMOVAL.

National Fire Brigades Union.

General r eg ret was felt by the many friends of Mr. Horace Folker at the news of his sudden illness On Ap ri l 18th Mr. Folker und erwe nt an operation for appendicitis The operation was most successfully performed by Li e ut. -Col. F. R. Russell, M.D., Chief Surgeon of the Ambulance Department, N.F.B.U. We are glad to learn that Mr. Folker is now makin g most satisfa':tory progress towards complete recovery, but it is deemed advisable that for some little tim e he should have thorough r es t and quietness, therefore all his engagements a re cancelled for the n ext six months.

The many fri e nds of Mr. A. Poncerot will be pleased to hear th a t the Council of the French Fire Federation has sanctioned his election as Official Representative of th e Ambulance Department, National Fire Brigades' Union, upon the Ambu lance Commission o f the Federation. This we are sure will be a matter of sincere gratification to our fri end, as it ke eps him on the active li st and in touch with his English co ll eagues, who will always entertain for him warm feelings of regard, for th e way in which he laboured to furth e r the best' interests of the fir e service a nd to promot e a c l oser union between the firem e n of France and England.

SC ARBOROUGH CAMP . - The Tournament Committee informs us th a t the arrangements for the torthcomin'g camp a r e now comp lete The historic grounds o f the Castle Hill, where .th e camp will be situated, is judged as one of the best s It es for a camp in the United Kingdom. It stands some 300 ft. above the sea, and has a commanding view o f the town.

The Mayor (Mr. Valentine Fow ler) and Corporation of as the. townspeople generally are enterIng most enthaus astlcally mto the visit of the Union, a nd we understand that the local Committee has a lr eady

The Railway Companies will gra,!t return-tickets from any Station at a single fare and a quarter to Fireme n travelling in uniform either singly or in numbers, on production of a voucher signed by the Hon. General Secretary. Thes e will be sent to any applica nt on receipt of a stamped addressed envelope. These tickets will be available from Thursd a y, July 9th, to Monday, July 30th, both inclusive. Entries for th e various competitions, and also for Camp accom modation, must be r ece iv ed at Headquarters not lat e r than June 13th. Later ent ri es cannot possib ly be allowed.

In conclusion, we can assure those of our readers who propose attending th e Camp that th ey will r ece ive a hear t y r ecept ion from the town of Scarborough.

Boy's LI FE BRIGADE.-The third a nnu al competition for th e First Aid and Stretcher Drill Challenge Shield, arranged by th e London Officers' Association of Brigade was held on May 2nd and 4th, when 10 companies competed. The competition was keenly fought out by the lads with the result that th e 18th London Co. (Wapping) proved the winners the second and third places wel e secured by the 1st Sutton and 1st Croydon. The shield and prizes were presented to the winners by Sir A. Sp icer at Cumberland Green, Regent's Park, on Saturday, 16th inst.

Where to stay at Scarborou2 h durin2 the Camp Week.

r HE GRAN 0 HOTEL is the finest and largest on , , , the North-East Coasl, directly overlookll1g the TIay, and adjO InIn g the Spa. 350 rooms , The only Hotel in Scarborough with Il ot and Co ld Sea Water (always ready) in Bathrooms. Band performs twice cla ily dW'jng Season. Moderate T ariff.

II. MUNRO JOIINSTON, Nat. T el. : No. I, Scarhro'. M cmager

" ST. ALMA" (SOUTH CLIFF).

First-C ass Boarding Establishment.

Ove r 30 Bedrooms Billiard and Smokin g Rooms Terms, from 6s. 6d. per day J. COPLAND, Propr£etor.

DEAR SIR,- I was mu ch interested by the letter in the April issue "l:innet." .It th ought and at the same tIme I tblllk he Wll! agree WIth me that there IS no art under the sun where com mon sense must be to S? large an extent a pr'e va iling- factor. I do not suppose there IS one cent. of Ambulance men who ge t a case tn exactly the form It is ste rotyped and laid down in the Text Book, a,nd C(:)11sequen tly the ambulance man has to make use of hIS bra.llls a nd do that which common sense states to be best. Com1l1g to the individual cas e of the fra ctured pelvis le t" Linnet" try for one moment Lo put himselftn the position of the patient and consider the results of lifting him without the aid of a blanket as compared with the comparative ease to the patient in the hammock-like contrivance of a blanket ski lfull y handled by a squad of trained men. That" Cantlie" does not say" u,se a blanket" I aaree, neither is it usu a l to te ll a man that he IS to eat his breakfast when it is placed in front of him, and on exactly the same principle I s uggest th at the judge was perfectly right in giving the squad the num,ber of marks who had made the best use of the facultIes the Great Creator had gi \'e n thelll,-Yours faithfull y, FRAN K HA TeH ( Supt.), The Potteries Electric Traction Co.'s Division, April 30th,' 1908.

DEAR SIR, - Will you kindl y allow me to support your cor re spo ndent" Linnet" in his difficulty?

At a compe tition held in London on March 4th, at. whl,ch I was a spectator, the test case was" Fracture of Pe lVIS WIth injury to Bladder." of conditions laid ?own was tl?at the" Stretcher work wIll be Judaed on the baSIS o f ExerCIse b d"" T I No. r, of Dr. Cantlie's Text Book; tenth e Itlon. we ve teams co mpeted, a nd, s trange to say, seven teams lifted to s tretcher by means of the blanket, and five teams ing to No. drill. Only one team used the lon g splInts as laId down in Mes srs. Warwick and Tunstall's Text-book,

The point is all the more interesting as Colonel Lees Hall was one of the jud g es and deducted IS marks from those teams which did not use the blanket I admit it would be almost impossible to provide definite and precise information for every injury in a text book like Dr. Cantlie'S, but we, who are 1I1terested 111 Ambu lance Competitions, often the need of someth1l1g more definite, especially as expenence shows th,at even th.ose acting as judges often have decided views of t1lelr own, as shewn by the recent do not always CO ll1 clde with the conditions expressly laId down.

In this particular instance',a;" a lr eady the t,ea n:,s whI ch ad her ed to the condItIons lo s t IS mal ks, - "\ Olll s faithfully,

C HARLE S F. LACK.

I n one book it gi ves • o as takin g head and stepping off wi th the left foot; No, 2 takin g the feet andstepping off with the right foot. I n the new book it places No, 3 at the head, and No at the foot! I sholl lcllike to know, on behalf of my comrades, which is the correc t way, as we ha ve all been through three examinations? Again, in the 2-men drill adaptable {or mines. I n the new book it places 0 2 at the head, and TO. I at the foot, with No I, one to give orders! This, I think, is incorrect, as in a cut ting he would be unable to see when the patient's head was in line with the pillo\\' of the stretcher.

Thanking you in anticipatiol1,-I am, yours, &c., "FIRST AIDER." f\Ve should cer tainly advise our corresponde nt to adopt the syst em of drill in the latest edition, but if he has any doubts as to its being correct, why not communicate with the authorities at St. John's Ga te ?-ED " "F.A."]

---. _.

Owing to the pressure upon our space, due to tl-. e several competitions which have taken place during the month, we have been compelled t o leave out various reports, kindly sent in by Corp:; Supts As far as possible we shall deal with these in the June numb er. Int erest ing reports are to hand from New Zealand, Indi a, and the TransvaaL

"RENACLANDIN" COMPRESSED Stop Bleeding Effectively. DRESSINGS.

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each 1/ 0 Renaglandin Wool, 1 oz., Renaglandin Lint, 2 oz., Renaglandin Cauze, 3 yds., " " 1/ 6 20

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[With regard to this we have made, we find the cOl1se n sus of Opll110n IS s tr ong-Iy 111 favour of ColLees- Hall's decision, and we believe that ,the method approved by that gen tlem an w ll be adopted 111 the near future,ED ., "F.A."]

Limited.

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FIRST AID TO THE INJURED.

Six Ambulance Lectures.

By Dr. FRIEDRICH ESMARCH. Translated from th e German by H.R.H. PRINCESS CHRISTIAN

Th e Sclzoolmast e1 says : - "Any o ne anxious t • m the art of r elieving. pa in, or possibly of b etter than study these IDtere sting and instructiv e pages.

London: SMITH, ELDER & CO., IS, WATERLOO PLA CE, S. W.

Policy No. " FIRST 600,093. AI D."

£100 Free Insurance

UNDERTAKEN BY

The Ocean Accident and Guarantee Corporation, L •• (Empowered b y S pecial Act of Parli a ment.) td. Pnnclpal Office: 36 to 44. Moorgate Street, London, E.C.

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WILL be paid by THE OCEAN ACCIDENT AND £100 GUARANTEE CORPORATION LIMITED P CIPAL OFFICE Nos 36 to M ' RINLONDON E C" 44, OORGATE STREET, the bont? fide hoider 'of t hi' the persona,1 repr.esentative ot shall be killed or fat a lly If the holder Kingdom or Channel I sland s to y acci ent wlthlD the United train in which th e holder is t an)I all way C;ompany's. passengerpaying passenger. rave IDg as a tlcket-beanng or fare -

Provided that the above undert k' g conditions, which are of the essenc: thiS subject to. the following special (a) Tbatdeath result witbin thirt e contract, :s ha ll, p ri o to the acc ident have a:!eC a c)c ldent; b) that th e holder the space provided (c) lb or er usu <:l sIgnature in ink in C or poration at its Prin cipal Office a :cldent be g iven to tbe occ urren ce ; (d) tbat med ica l certifi cates four!e en da y s after its pe rso n c laiming up on reques t or tbe a 0 er 111 o rmatIOn be furnished by thI S app lies only o perso ns Corpora tIon ; a nd (e) that ag e, IS lrmlted to one Coupon,ln SUe T' k and under seventy years of g ood or tbe current month of issue Ie et or anyone holder and hold s

This Insurance enti les the ho lder to the b fi '.

to, the conditions of the" Ocean A 'd dene t of, and IS subject

Limi ted Act 1890 " n' I N CCI ent an Gu a rantee Company , ,1"IS {S os. 2 and 3 h h .' patible with the special conditions above ey are not mcomTILe POSseSS;MI. 0/ this Coup on - fn s,.,'an ce T' k '. 0./ p r e m iu m u nder S ec 33 of tile A c t A ;c et lS adlllltted to be tlu payment

The Independent Journal for the Ambulance and Fire Services.

To Our Readers.

As it is the wish and desire of the Proprietors to make this J oumal as instructive and entertaining as possible, correspondents in all parts of the country are asked to give it all the help they can.

Superintendents of Corps and Officers of Divi sions of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, Officers of the Royal Army Medical Corps (Volunteers), the Volunteer Ambulance School of In struction, and Chief Officers of Fire Brigades will, it is hoped, do their best to make it known amongst th e members of their re spective organisations, and will also send for publication their official news and notices, Suggest tion s are invited for Prize Competitions and other mat t ers which will ad "ance the intere st o f the Journa!.

vVe parti cularly desire to ask our correspondents to be brief and to the point in any co mmuni cations they may send us for publication.

Correspondents sending in photos are urgently requested to state on the b a ck of the same the name of the indi vidual or the Corps or Bri gade, and give al so the name and address of the sender.

V\'e beg to a d vise our re a ders that we do no t pay fo r ph o tographs or copy sent, unless pre viously ag reed up on in writing.

" First Aid" is published on the 20th of the month.

EDITORIAL.

THE recent correspondence which has Ambulance appeared in our columns anent the Competitions. methods and rules which are presumed to govern the conduct of am bulance competitions, raises the question as to whether or not the time has now arrived when it might be more satisfactory to abandon the orthodox hard and fast rules which have hitherto prevailed, and leave it to the individual competitor to put into practice, the methods which appear to him as a skilled "first aider" most suitable to adopt, in connection with the case which he is called upon to treat.

In o ur opening remarks we have referred to the rules which are presumed to govern the conduct of these competitions, and it is perhaps o nly ri gh t th at we should explai n our reasons for adopting this lin e of criticism. It will be well within th e recollectio n of our readers who have followed the correspondence to which we have referred, that one of OUf correspondents, writing with reference to a recent competitio n, brought to bear what, in the face of anything add uced to the contrary, must be regarded as prima facie evide nce in support of his contention, that the conditions) under which the contest was held, had not been strictly

adhered to by the judge in giving his decision on at least one part of the test set for the competitors to treat.

It is not our intention to argue for or against the methods approved by the arbiter in the case in question. It is quite possible that those who gained his approval were unqu estionably the best suited to ensure the comfort of the patient; the question at issue, however, is were they in strict conformity with the conditions set out as followed by the other competing teams? If not, we submit with all deference that, to our way of thinking, the decision was not a just one, inasmuch as it was not in accordance with the principles of fair play towards the other competing teams who had strictly adhered to the conditions.

We can quite rea1ise that there are many difficulties to be faced in attempting to run an ambulance competition without some recognised standard to govern it. But are these difficulties insurmountable, or is a recognised authority of such vital importance? Personally, we are inclined to answer the question in the negative. It is a well recognised axiom that doctors differ, and when it happens that a medical man holding strong views, probably opposed to those set out in the text book, el ects to follow his own dictum rather than be hound by those adopted by its author, it would appear there is not much to be said, in favour of the practice of running these competitions, on the orthodox principles laid down in the official text book.

Most ambulance students will recall to mind that when attending their first course of lectures, the lecturer was at great pains to impress upon them the fact that first aid was largely a question of common sense, that although it was essential that they should study the instructions laid down in their text book, still in case of emerge ncy they would find that they would have to act largely on their own initiative, in deciding as to what was really the best course to adopt, in dealing with any case to which they might be summoned. If this contention is right, does it not seem more in accordance with the fitness of things that ambulance competitions should be run on similar lines, and that th e competitor should be permitted to put into practice the best methods, which should occur to him, as necessary for the adequate and correct treatment of the supposed case he is called upon to treat. If, in addition, he was r eq uir ed to make use o f a ny rough and ready appliances

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which came first to hand, it would give to these competitions an air of realism which is sadly lacking in present day methods.

We know of several medical men, lecturers to ambulance classes who have admitted that they have learned many a good wrinkle in the first aid treatment of a case from ambulance students, who have attended their classes. Competitors of this stamp, would have an opportunity of scoring, in the practical portion of a competition, run on the lines which we have indicated.

" Argenta" Ambulance Cup_

THI S handsome trophy, which was presented a few years back by the Argenta Meat Company, Ltd., for annual competition amongst units of the st.. Brigade within the No.'s 4, 5, and 6 DistrIcts. This year teams entered for the competition, which took place at the Police Buildings, Blackpool, on Saturday, June 6th. The whole of the arrangements for the competition has, as usual been well carried out by Asst.-Commissioner Derham.' The judges were Drs. Bird and and they submitted the several teams to a most searchmg test, the competition practically occupying the whole of the day. At the conclusion the winners were announced as follows ;-

1St. Winners of cup and gold medals, Newcastleunder-Lyne, with 17 3 points.

2nd. Winners of silver medals with gold centres, Barrow-in-Furness, with 168 points.

3rd. Winners of silver medals, Rochdale, with 167 points. The maximum marks obtainable were 200.

AI D.- June, 1908.

ment to the Argenta Meat Company for so kindly encouraging the work by the presentation of that handsome cup. Their thanks were also due to the judges and Asst.-Commissioner Derham for their arduous duties that day. In conclusion, he complimented all the teams on the way in which they had gone through the ordeal, and presented the cup and medals to the respective teams amidst hearty rounds of applause.

In proposing a vote of thanks to the Argenta Meat Company, Mr. Derham sketched the history of the competition, and said the Company was worthy of all .thanks, not only for the expense they went to, but for the mterest they took in each competition. As a further proof of this he intimated amidst applause, that Mr. Rushworth, of the Agenta Company, had commissioned him to say that in order to provide further competition there would in future be no entrance fees to pay. The Company would bear all cost, and had authorised him to pay back to the several teams which had competed that day the lOS. entrance fees. In concluding, Mr. Derham proposed a hearty vote of thanks to the judges, who had spent the whole day away from their professional duties. The vote was carried with acclamation and the proceedings closed.

Annual Camp NO.3 District.

THE Annual Camp in connection with this district took place at Whitsuntide at Broughton Park by kind permission of His Grace the Duke of Buccleugh.

Mustering at Kettering Railway Station on Saturday afternoon, the men marched into camp, headed by the Kettering Rifle Band. Here, after attention had been paid to the requirements of the inner man, all was soon in activity in connection with the "settling down II process. The various detachments having been told off to their

June, 19 08 -FIRST had assembled along the route and were evidently much impressed by the smart and soldierlike bearing of the brigade, and wonderfully well they look e d as they swung along with military pr.:. cision under the command of the popular Camp Commandant (Asssistant Commissioner T. H. Woolston).

The service was of a bright and hearty character, the hymns being especially suitable. The lessons were read by the rector, the Rev. Canon Symthe, who also preached an eloquent sermon. It was a sympathetic sermon, and one which particularly appealed to ambulance men, and it was listened to wit h great attention by the crowded congregation.

It should be mentioned that the Camp Police attended service at Weekley Church under the command of Chief Surgeon Dryland. The lesson here was read by the Acting Camp Chaplain (Chief Supt. the Rev. W. Dore Rudgard, M.A.).

Whit Monday the camp was early astir, and preparations were made for the receptio n of the Chie f Commissioner Inspector General Belgrave Ninnis, R. N., M.D. Prior to this, however, the detachments were pu t through various drills in connection with the "Scott Brownlow" Water Cart, which had been specially sent from Aldershot in charge of Sergt. Muirhead, who gave demonstrations in the methods of purifying the water.

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he has this year made a substantial increase in the prize money.

Tuesday. The early morning parade was taken by Chief Supt. Harvey Reeves, the men being exercised in company and battalion drill, and in individual first aid work, with wago n and stretcher drill. The "Markham" Cup Competition was advanced another stage, and four teams were weeded out. The second round was devoted to first aid in the field in front of an imaginary firing line, the third was devoted to tent pitching and striking with bell tents.

Another interesting competition was that for the Guards' Shield, the trophy for the best kept lines in camp.

The presentation took place immediately after the competition. In asking Alderman Fish to undertake that duty, Dr. Derham apologised for the absence of the Mayor through indisposition.

Alderman Fish, in a few well chosen sentences, expressed regret at the mayor's ahsence. Alluding to the value of ambulance work and the self-denial which its practice involved, he said that they must all admire such nobility of character. The Alderman also paid a compli-

allotted tents, immediately set to work to put things square, and when" lights out" sounded at 10.30 all hands were ready to turn in. Although cold, the night was fine and gave every promise of a continuance of genial weather. Sunday morning all ranks were early astir, and by 7 o'clock the various detachments paraded for a march out to Giddington and back. Then followed breakfast, after which the men again "fell in" for church parade. This took place at Kettering Parish Church. A large crowd

At 12.30 the Chief Commissioner who was acc ompanied by the District Chief Surgeon (Dr.

The daily drills have been of the usual routine character, interspersed with further instruction with the "Scott Brownlow" [H. Alba, Hull

water-cart. Another improvement in this year's camp is the crematorium which has been utilised for the destruction of all camp refuse. His Grace th e Duke of Buccleugh paid a visit of inspection on Thursday, when a similar programme was gone through as was wi tnessed by theChief Commissioner 0 n Monday. His

Portrait group of the Alexandra Dock team, of Hull and Barnsley Railway, winners of the No.6 District Staff Cups and ShIeld. The name s from to right are :- J. D. Carlclc, Dr. J. C. McWillie ( Hon. Surgeon), J. W. Wood, A. Stead, (Su pt. ), F. A. Hawksworth, C. Jackson (Dock Supt.), and J. W. Dye.

and sports of a humourous character. The officers and men are deeply o-rateful to his Grace the Duke of Buccleugh his kindness, and for again placing his pa;k at theIr service. They would also desire to express th eIr of their deep ind eb tedness to Mr. Douglas T. Thnng, the Duke's agent and to Mr. James, the clerk ?f the works, for the kind assistance they have at all times so readily rendered throughout the me e ting.

Grace was duly impressed with the thoroughness with which the various evolutions and exercises were g 0 n e through, showing the high standard of efficiency attained by the St. John men. Each evening there have been concerts in camp Audland) and the District Supt. Treasurer (Capt. Hughes), arrived on the ground, and was received by the parade, under Assistant Commissioner Woolston, with a general salute. After a close inspection of all ranks, the Inspecting Officer took up his position at the flag post for the march past. Th!s was very creditably performed; the men first past m returning in quarter column. The. ChIef CommISSIoner was evidently impressed by the steadmess on parade of th_e different detachments, and more than once expressed hIS complete satisfaction.

The competition for the handsome Challenge Cup, presented by Major the Hon. Lieut.-Col. Markham, was advanced a further stage. As an evidence of the interest which Col. Markham takes in this contest, we learn that

The camp has been visited daily by a large number of visitors, amongst them being Lord Charles Scott and Lord Henry Scott, the Rev. H. H. and Irs. Howard, Mr. F W. Montague Douglas etc.

The following officers were m camp, m most instances were accompanied by a detachment of their men ;-Assistant CommiSSIOner r. H.

Photo .3)'1

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Woolston in command, District Chief District Chief Supt. Capt. F. A. Brooks, Dlstnct Supt. Treasurer Capt. W. Hughes, Chief Surgeons

L. W. Dryland, H. G. Webster, Chief Supts T. H. Hllton, F. Frenery (Camp Quartermaster), F. Gilbert, Harvey Reeves, H. Luck, SUfJr. Secretary H. Supts. e. Nicholson, A. O. Groum, SWindall, G. Dixon, J. Parson LIcon, Hartland, First Offi ce rs H. J. Chapman, H. Rdby, E. F. Admitt, E. J. Emms.

The approximate strength of all ranks was

During the meeting the regulation guards police duties have been performed; in fact, as needs .no bush," it goes without saying that 10

with the annual Camp of InstructIOn and Tra1Ol11g. 10 this large and important district has, as befn. carned out in a manner that would reflect the highest credit upon well-trained and experienced troops, and when it is borne in mind that this is really the only one opportunity in the year in which these men. can it shows how thorough is the instructIOn given by their capable and popular Camp Commandant and his loyal and staff of officers. Walking through the camp and observmg how readily and cheerfully th e men were carrying all the duties appe rt aining to camp life, one could not fall to be struck by the spirit of real patriotism which must stimulate them and induce them not only to sacrifice time in the discharge of this duty but inspires them also to dip their hands into their own pockets to meet a large part of the necessary expenses which it involves. As showing the proficiency in am bulance work which had been attained by some of the detachments there were on exhibition at some of the tents many of the valuable trophies which have been won in competition, notably the "Dewar" Shield, the" blue ribband" of the Brigade, and which constitutes its holders the champion am bulance team for the year. ------.--.------

CU31berland Mines and Quarries Centre Challenge Shield.

THE first round in the competition for this trophy, which was presented to the centre by Mr. G. Scoular, e. e., of St. Bees, took place at Whitehaven on June 6th. Four teams faced the judges, and at the conclusion the" William" Pit team were adjudged the winners.

Added interest was given to the meeting this year owing to the fact that opportunity was taken to make a presentation to Mr.W. Leck, H.M. Inspector of Mines, who retired last year from the position of Hon. Secretary to the Cumberland Mines and Quarries Centre, S.J.A.A., a post which he had filled for twelve years. During that time Mr. Leek did a grand work on behalf of the ambulance cause, and that his efforts were appreciated by employers, officials and employes was witnessed by the spontaneous response which was made to the appeal for su bscri ptions.

The presentation was made at the close of the competition by Mr. H. M. James, and consisted of the following articles, in addition to purse of gold :-Silver tea and coffee service, silver hot-water jug, silver rose bowl, and silver salver; gold watch and bangle for Mrs. Leck; gold necklets for Miss Mabel Le ck and Miss Cissy Leek (daughters); and gold albert for Mr. J. Leck (son). Mr. Leek was also presented with a gold medallion and gold date label, and on behalf of the Grand Priory of the Order of St. John with a vote of thanks on vellum in recognition of distinguished services rendered in furtherance of the work of the ambulance department

No. District (Metropolitan Corps.)

No. 37 G. W.R LONDON DIVI SION - This division have their station on all Bank Holidays on Ealing Common. The photo shows the members on Whit Monday, when six cases were rendered first aid to, the most serious one being a knee cap, which was removed to the Ealing Cottage Hospital. Hon. Surgeon Dr. J. M. Carvell was Medical Officer in Charge, and 1st Officer A E. Evans in charge of the station, with five men of the division. Lady Supt. Miss Blye Bourke was in attendance with one nursing sister of No. I Nursing Division.

The annual competition for the "Osborne" Shield took place at Charterhouse School on MiY 30th, and was won by the Great Western Railway, No. 37 Division, with a score of 105 points. The previous holders, L.B.&S.e.R. (Willow Walk) were second.

T e n teams of No. I (London District) competed. This competition is always keenly contest, and especially interesting, as all the work is done with improvised material. The winning team was composed of Messrs. G. Burgess, W. Gaffney, J. Brazeley and J. Scaplehorn (in charge).

No. 3 District.

Ip SW lcH.-On May 30th the Gippeswyk Division held a series of inter-squad competitions, which it is hoped to make an annual affair. This year five teams entered The judges were Capt. W. A. Gibb, M.D. (Supt. Sec. of No. 3 District), who undertook to judge the stretcher work and individual bandaging, whilst the viva voce portion was undertaken by Hon. Surgeon E. J. R Bartlett, M .R e.S. After a keen contest the result was declared in favour of Corpi. Harris's team, with 193 marks out of a possible maximum of 300.

The prizes were distributed at the clos.e by Mrs Heseltine.

Votes of thanks were accorded to the judges and to Mrs. Heseltine.

The arrangements for the afternoon were carried out by Supt. F. H. Gooderham, who was assisted by 1st Officer A. H. W. M o ffatt and Hon. Secretary W. Bodsworth.

The annual meeting of the division was held at the People's Hall, Stoke, on May 2 ISt, when Hon. Surgeon E. J. R. Bartlett, M.Re.S., presided.

The annual report shows a record increase of members, whilst the number of individual cases treated by members has largely increased. The financial statement shows a good balance in hand.

The Hon. Surgeon, on behalf of the division, presented 1st Ambulance Officer A. H. W. Moffat with a set of gold sleeve links suitably inscribed as a token of the esteem and regard with which he is held by the members, and for his devoted services on behalf of the division.

A vote of thanks to Dr. Bartlett for presiding brought the meeting to a close.

June, 19 0 8

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NORTHAMPToN.-On May 26th, at the Angel Hotel, a dinner was held under the presidency of Chief Supt. Harvey Reeves to celebrate the winning by Sergt. Lloyd's team of the" Dewar" Shield.

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the kind things which th ey had said about them, and hoped that they would al ways d ese rv e them.

The chairman was supported amongst others by HIS Worship the Mayor, Woolston, Chief Surgeon Milligan, 1\lr. T. P. Donnan, Lleut. A. L. Donnan and a large number of local am bulance and mEmbers of the Yeomanry and Volunteer services.

The usual loyal and patrioti c toasts having been submitted and duly honoured, Mr. Wells (Secretary Northampton Centre, S.J.A.A.) read a number o f letters of apology for non-attendance. The Marquis of N orthampto.n, an old and very sincere friend of the corps, wrote expressmg regret at his inability to be present, and sent hearty congratulations to Sergt. Lloyd and his Sir Randall (Chairman of the Centre) wrote In Similar strains.

The toast of the evening, "Our Guests," was proposed by Chief Surgeon. Milligan a capital speech. The Doctor exp ressed hIS r eg ret, which h e knew was sha.red by all that their late friend, Dr. H. Jon es, had not lIv ed to that toast.

No;thampton 0 wed much to their late chief surgeon for the good

Assistant Commissioner Woolston who proposed the next toast "The Northampton Corps," and, in the course of an interesting speech, made a strong appeal for additional financial assistance for the local corps. The Assistant Commissioner pointed out that he saw by a report of 1887, th e subscriptions for that year totalled £34, and yet would it be credited th at, notwithstanding the growth of the corps, th e extra duties its members had undertaken and the willingness that they showed at all times to turn out for transport and other duty, the subscriptions list stood practically at the same amount to-day. For twenty years the transport work had been carried out and had gained the praise of not only the medical profession , but th e gratitude of a large num ber of the public; but a little help was worth a great deal of pity. Their Chief Supt. was doing his best to promote the further efficiency of his corps, he asked them to look at the sacrifice these men were making. They were practically giving the best years of their lives in the service of their fellows. He hoped that in their new venture the provision of suitable headquarters, they would have the which he inaugur ated and carried on for some years in the face of opposition. Sergeant Lloyd and his team wert worthy of all hon our for the plucky fight they had made. For the last four years Northampton had been in the finalin 1905 and 1906 when they ran second, being beaten by 3! marks, and again in 1907, when the winners 0 n I y secured the trophy by the narrow margin of 2! marks, and now in J 908 their persistency had received its reward, and they had secured the coveted trophy . Of AMBULA1\CE STATION ON

support not only of the town but also that of many residents in the county. These headquarters would provide a suitable meeting place, a home for the men, and the officers would invariably be sure of finding men there should they be wanted on emergency. Speaking as a staff officer, and not as one connected with the local corpsalthough he was proud to have been associated with it, he appealed that night for increased support, and he trusted that the Northampton Corps would go on and course that had not been done without the sacrifice of much personal leisure.

EALI1\G COMMON ON WHIT MONDAY.

prosper. He coupled with the toast the names of ChiefSupt. Harvey Reeves and Hon. Surgeon Evans.

They were proud of their tean: and th ef!1 heartily on th ei r well deserved victory, and m dnnkmg theIr health they would venture to express the hope that would repeat the victory next year. The toast was heartily drank. with musical honours. .

A pleasing little interlude here took place, whlch showed the good feeling existing amongst the mem b ers of the team, and how great was their regard for the Sergeant who had successfully led them to victory. Private Fletcher on behalf of the team asked Sergeant Lloyd 's accep tance of a handsome pipe and letter of thanks momentoes of the victory. They thanked him all hI.S work and were proud to ask his acceptance of that httle g ift as a mark of respect. ..'

Sergt. Lloyd, who WIth a r.ouslng receptIOn, expressed his intention of being very bnef. He thanked the members of the team for that tangible expression of th ei r good feeling towards himself. No sergeant ever had more loyal co-workers He thanked the many speakers for all

Chief Supt. Harvey thanked the Asst.-Commissioner for the kind way In whIch he had referred to the work of the co rps and for putting f?rward an appeal for further financial assistance to the new headquarters, they had the option of buym.g them for ;/;5 00 , of this amount they had already £300 In hand, so that on th at head they would require at least. a further of ;/; 200; in addition to this he did not think that the lISt of annual W2S a n adequate one. They shoui d have at leas t ;/; 100 to meet the expenses ea.ch year. n conclusion, Chief Supt. Harvey Reeves, paid a graceful tribute to the services rendered by the leade.rs of the 19°)5 and 07 teams (Supt. Rice and Supt.. Major l\1ackness H e c;ngratulated Sergt. Lloyd and hlS team thlen well earned victory this year. Hon. Surgeon vans a so brightly responded and testified to the. earnest. and k t · b the Chief Supt and hiS men In connectIOn wor pu In y .' with the Transport ServIce.

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Asst.-Commissioner Woolston presented to Hon. Surgeon W. H. Chamberlain the vellum vote of thanks awarded by the Order for distinguished service. The recipient having briefly replied. Other toasts were "The Visitors," "The Press," and "The Host and Hostess."

During the pvening a capital programme of vocal music and other items was rencered by members of the corps and their friends.

No. 4 District.

KENDAL.-Much satisfaction is felt here, says a correspondent, at the high position attained by the squad from division which represented the No. 4 DIstnct In the recent competition for the " Dewar" Shield. It will be r emembered that but one point separated them from the premier team. The Kendal Me:-Ctfry says: "The men journeyed to London on t?e previOUS afternoon, and on Friday morning turned out In a smart on parade. Their appearance betokened good dISC IplIne and careful drill. Amongst all the teams, they to?k the general eye of the public, and strong favountes from first to last. They were comphmen.ted by al.l in the way in which they acquitted themselves. In the dnll movements, which, however, were only an adjunct, and no real asset to them. The examination to which they subjecte? consisted of three parts. They were each given a questiOn and all acquitted themselves Vv'ell, but Sergt. Wright was actually credited with two extra points beyond the allotted marks on account of the far-seeing answer given to his question. The verdict of the judge on this portion of the work was that the team a remarkably well thought out series of answers dlsplaymg unus.al amount of intelligence. Each man was. the? gIven an Imaginary case of injury to treat, and agam WIth a good result. The last portion was a case for team to treat together. This was a difficult case Involvmg two injuries and transport across a fence. The nature of the case was such as to tax the ingenuity of all the men to the utmost, and was most creditably performed the transport being especially well done.

" At. the conclusion :of the work by all the teams, it .the Judges half an hour to decide as to the relative pOSitiOn of the teams. Fina!ly Northampton was pl.1ced first, m?r.e on account of theIr haVIng been second in the on t.he two preceding years than for any actual supenonty In thIS competition. They took the "Dewar" ShIeld, and there is no doubt their consistency for the last three years stood them in good stead, and deservedly so."

No. 7 District.

NEWPORT, annual.inspection of this corps took place on the I2th Inst., the Inspecting officer being Col. Commissioner, who was accompanied by the DIstnct ChIef Surgeon Col. Lloyd. There was a good muster of all ranks on parade, and as the weatller was favourable the various drills and stretcher exercises were performed out of duurs. At the conc! usion, Colonels Cureton and the officers and men, and expressed theIr gratIficatIon at the efficient state of the corps. The on duty were Chief Supt. Hamilton Supts. Fudge, Hdl and Lewis.

When corresponding with Advertisers please mention "First Aid."

The American National Red Cross.

IN common with this country our American kinsmen have for some time past realised the importance of making the most perfect arrangements for the treatment of the sick w.ounded in war. It is not so long since, on the InItIatIve of our own beloved Queen, that steps were taken to Cross Society on a more satisfactory baSIS by bnngmg It Into closer connection with all classes o.f by the formation of County Associations, a SImIlar crusade was also set on foot in America by the formation of

THE AMERICAN NATIONAL RED CROSS.

Th e movement, which has the approbation of President Roosevelt, and active sympathy and cordial co-operation of the Hon. WIlham Taft and the Hon Elihu Root two of America's most prominent statesmen, has already' done much good work, since its inauguration as a national movement less than three years ago

From a perusal of its journal, The Qltarted), Bulletin, whIch has been forwarded to us by the courteous Field Agent of the New York State Branch (Mr. Charles W. Hurd), at the request of a very old friend of FIRST AID resid ent in New York, we have gathered much useful and i?formation, which we propose to publish in a of artIcles, as we feel sure that English "first aiders " WIll be pleased to learn what "our cousins across the streak ".are doing, and as a result each nation may tloubtless denve some useful lesson which will tend not only to further advance the noble and humane work carried on by each under the Geneva Convention, but will serve to draw closer the bonds of friendship, in the efforts which are sure to ?e made from time to time, by both nations, to render rellef and to the victims of calamities, as apart from those resultIng from warfare.

We are constantly hearing in this country how far ahead of us they are in America in the matter of am bulance provis ion for those seized with sudden illness or inj.ur.ed. in the and undoubtedly in the larger cities thIS IS In the maIn correct. Horse am bulance stations are kept at most of the public hospitals, and on receipt of a telephone message an ambulance wagon, accompanied by a medica.l (invariably a student) and the n ecessary bearers IS dIspatched to the scene, and the patient is promytly .to, necersary, conveyed to the hospItal. In thIS directIOn, In the larger towns and cities must admit we are behind, especially in London, but In England, thanks to th.e work in 1877 by the Order of St. John, and smce that date contInuously carried on under its auspices, we have a vast army of men and able and ready to give the necessary first aid assistance to the stricken one.

Amb.ulance classes have been from time to time held In States, but hitherto they have lacked organisatIOn, WIth the result that after a time interest has flagged the students have dropped out or given up the work OWIng to the fact that no really effective effort has been made to inpire them to continue their studies. Here then we in the United Kingdom, are far ahead of the United States: both England and Scotland, owing to capable on the part of both the St. John Am bulance ASSOCIatIOn and the St. Andrew's Am bulance Association interest is not permitted to flag, with the result that out of the students of both organisations national ambulance corps ha ve been evolved which have already proved of vast to both .the State and its several Municipalities, and whIch would, In the event of national emergency, be of

June, 19 08 .

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the greatest possible service to the nation. Take the work done by the. St. John Ambulance Brigade on the large open spaces In and around the metropolis of London on Bank Holidays, and similar occasions of public festivity or upon Lord Mayor'S Day or other great function; occaSIOns likely to draw large numbers of sightseers into the public streets. Well, in no other city in the world would such capable administration and organisation for the relief of sickness, or the succour of the injured be witnessed as is now constantly seen in the streets of London. '

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channel of inter-commenication may be set on foot, that must tend to bind closer the ties of friendship.

It is proposed to organise in New York City and ultimately throughout that State an organisation similar to that of the St. John Ambulance Brigade in this country, and from No. of The Red Cross the official organ of the SOCIety, we gather that ItS alms and objects are as follows: -

To ORGANISE THE YOUTH

SERVICE.

"Ten thousand -fifty thousand -a hundred

C?ne important .s tep whIch been taken by the Amencan branch WIll commend Itself to all of those in thIS co untry who believe in the obligation which rests upon every nation, which is a party to the Geneva Convention, and that is to limit the use of the Red Cross name and insigna to the official organisation of the country and to those connected with its work. In the Bulletin attention is called to the fact that this is a treaty and therefore a government matter, and not merely as some suppose the effort of a society to obtain the exclusive right to the use of the emblem. The Executive Committee of the .N.ational Red has therefore issued an appeal to all IndlvIduals, or bUSIness firms, and corporations who employ the Geneva Red Cross for business purposes to kindly desist from such use, graduOF TH.E COUNTRV FOR THE NEWTON ABBOT POLICE AMBULANCE TEAM. all y withdrawing its employment and substituting some other distinguishing mark. We are glad to learn that the appeal has been so far successful inasmuch as several

thousand of our youth trained to render 'nrst aid to the injured ,rendering it in accidents and in great disast e rs; affiliating with the militia, strengthening the Medical Department ()f the Army in war, yet working ceaselessly for a universal peace and brotherhood; cooperating in the campaign against tuberculosis; educating the next gene ration i n com mon care and precaution, and throwing new safeguards around human life-this,"

important firms h a ve written courteous and kindly worded letters consen ting to comply with the request of the committee and tv relinquish the use of the emblem. Cannot similar action be taken in this country?

It is a disgrace to our own organisation that we find the Red

Cross em blem constantly heading advertisements, telling of says The Red Cross Magazim, "is the ideal which the Red Cross Legion of Relief columns will try to realise."

It is a grand ideal, and one to which as our readers know, we have always subscribed, "universal peace and brotherhood." What higher ideal can mankind aspire to than the best way to relieve suffering, to save life rather than destroy it, and .it is because we believe implicitly in the civilisir:g, or rather, the humanising influences of first aid, that we wish "God Speed" to the labours of our kinsmen across the broad Atlantic. We shall hope from time to time to chronicle its progress, and we would suggest to those of our English readers who believe in the international character of our work, to forward papers, photographs, and other items of special interest connected with the work in this country, to the Field AgelJt, Mr. Charles W. Hurd, American National Red Cross, 500 Fifth Avenue, New York, U.S.A. By this means a

the virtues of somebody's patent pills or magIC corn cure.

We shall hope in future numbers to give further interesting accounts of the work of the American system, but, might we, in concluding our notes this month, suggest to our American confreres the possibility of adopting some other title than that of Relief Columns! To our way of thinking the title of Am bulance Corps is much more distinctive and characteristic of "first aid" organisation.

We understand that Lieut.-Col. Finn, of Lydd, will take a team of 8 men, Capt. Plewis, of Gillingham, 14 men, and Capt. Coat Parker 6 men, t? attend the 19 th congress of the Belgium FederatIOn, to be held Les.sInes on the x Ith, 12th and 13th July. Lieut.-Col. FInn WIll be in command a nd Supt. Lacroix will be with the party.

By courtesy] [Devon Exeter Gasdte.

Portrait group of the winning team, No. 2 Division ( Police ) Newport Corps, which won the Devon and Cornwall Challenge Bowl at the recent competition. The names are :-Sergt. Creech, Constables 'Webber, Rundle, Real, Lynn and Horn (ca ptain )

Brevities.

SPEAKING at the annual meeting of the American Red Cross, at Washington, recently, the Hon. Elihu Root said, " All along that broad front which marks the progress of mankind there is a great array of organisations composed of men and women seeking to change the treatment of men towards each other from cruelty to kindness, and each one is helping every other. You are doing the work indispensible towards educating mankind to the life that will exemplify the love of humanity, and the spirit of Christ rather than the life which is of the beast bestial, and which marks the cruelty of ancient days rather than the divine compassion of the coming of our Lord." These are words which should find an echo in the breast of every "first aider j" they are so touchingly emblematic of the teaching of The Ma s ter. When the principal Statesmen of the World accept this great ideal, and not only speak upon it but act up to it, then the lessons of the past will not have been all in vain.

***

SPEAKING at the "Argenta" Cup Competition at Blackpool on June 6th, Dr. Bird, one of judges, addressing the mem bers of the competing teams, urged the men not to learn their work "parrot fashion"; he warned them against relying too much upon the text books. They should study their work sensibly and as it appealed to them. In some cases he found out that when they were asked questions the men answered them exactly as they were given in the books, even almost to putting in the com mas and full stops. Nothing irritated an examiner more than when an answer came at once, word for word from the book. He advised them to bring commonsense to bear upon their work, and added, in conclusion, if they depended simply upon text book teaching they might sometimes find themselves in a difficulty.

* * *

LAST month in this column we made an error for which we desire to take this, the earliest opportunity after its being brought to our notice, to express our sincere and unqualified regret.

It will be recalled by our readers that we drew attention to some words alleged to have been spoken by Asst.Commissioner Cotton at Dover, when inspecting the East Kent Ambulance Divisions, and we questioned the good taste which prompted those remarks. Several correspondents have since written us pointing out that the remarks in question were made by the Mayor while addressing the parade, and not by the Asst.-Commissioner, as was reported.

An advertisement in this Journal is the cheapest traveller you can have.

AI D.- June, 1908.

Comi.ng Events.

Part£culars of j07 tlt com£ng ev ents w£lI be £nse1 ted £1l th£s colu1lt11 j?'ce of c!za1"ge, if n ceiv ed not late?' than tne I4th of each month.

Crystal Palace.-Annual tournament of the London Private Fire Brigades' Association, July 18th. Hon. Sec., Mr. C. Haswell, 7, Marlborough-road, Woodford, Essex.

D ewsbury.- The "Thomes" Cup Competition will be held here on July IIth. Prizes value £6. Supt. Sec., C. Thomes, 72, Westgate, Dewsbury.

Elland.-The annual Ambulance and Fire Brigade Competition will be held here on July 25th. Valuable prizes and silver shields will be competed for. Entries close July 18th. Full particulars of A. Tate, hon. sec., 8, James-street, EIland.

Lessims.- The committee of the Belgian Federation has decided to hold its 19th Congress here, on the IIth, 12th and 13th of July next, in conjunction with Namur. The Committee is very anxious to see a numher of English officers and firemen at this gathering. Special facilities are offered. Particulars of Mr. C. Kusel, 36, Newton-road, Westbourne-grove, London. W. Millwall.-Display in aid of the National Lifeboat Saturday Fund by "Clarnico" Fire Brigade, at the Football Ground, July 4th.

RavelZsthorpe.- The annual competition for the" Nevin" Silver Challenge Cup and other prizes will be held on Sept. 12th. Hon. Sec., W. Ledgard, Broomer-street, Ravensthorpe.

Scarborough.-The Camp and CompetitIOns of the N.F.B.U. will be held here from July 10th to 17th. Further particulars from the Gen. Hon. Sec. Chief Officer H ill Bedford.

SoutllCl7llpton.-Presentation of certificates to successful candidates by H.R.H. Princess Louise, Duchess of Argyle, on June 27th, at the Hartley College.

Victoria Park, London.-The annual inspection and display of the" Clarnico" Brigade on July 25th, in the grounds of " Clarnico" Works.

Wltitjield.- The 12th annual review and competItIon of the 8th East Lane Corps and Divisions will be held here on July 18th.

We regret that an error arose in our reference to the "Thomes" Cup Competition under this column in our last issue, the date when this event takes place is July Ith instead of June lIth.

SOUTHAMPTON. -Her Royal Highness Princess Louise Duchess of Argyle, has graciously consented to rresent certificates to the successful candidates of this centre, of which Her Royal Highness is President, at the Hartley College on the afternoon of June, 27th. Colonel Twiss, the energetic local honorary secretary, is to be congratulated on the very marked success which has attended his efforts to revive the work in this important town. The new wagon is now in service and has already proved of great utility.

Some thirty English officers and men attended the I9 th Annual Congress of the Belgium Federation of Firemen, which was held this year at Namur, under the command of Capt. Dyson. The party left London on June 5th , arriving at Namur on the afternoon of the 6th. At the official banquet given by the Federation on the Sunday, C.O.'s Hall (Windsor), Brooker (Weybridge) and Knox were presented with diplomas as members of honour of the Belgium Federation. We are pleased a 1so to record that the Ley ton team were awarded a special prize in the hand-pump drill. The party returned on the 9 t g.

June, 19 08 -FIRST Our Portrait Gallery.

MAJOR A. R. HENCHLEY, M.D., ROYAL ARMY MEDICAL CORPS, 2ND HJME COUNTIES FIELD AMBULANCE.

IT has been our pri"vilege on more than one occasion to refer to the valuable services which have been rendered to the am bulance cause by the gentleman whose portrait it is our pleasure to present in our "Gallery" this Major Henchley, who was a student at the MIddlesex

AI D.- 18 5

Settling down to private practice in the ancient City of Canterbury, Dr. Henchley threw himself whole-heartedly into the ambulance movement, and after having lectured to several classes in the year 1905, he founded the Canterbury Division of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, and in which he still continues to take a warm and active interest. In connection with his servi c es as a lecturer, it might be mentioned that he has undertaken this duty for many of the classes organised by the South Eastern and Chatham Railway Co. He is at all times ready and willing to assist the men in their studi e s, and is deservedly popular with them on account of the keen interest he has always shown in all that appertains to the otmbulance movement on this system. His services are constantly re q uisitioned, both as examiner and as judge, in the annual competitions.

Impressed with the fact that the Eastern Division of Kent had but little or no ambulance personel, early in 1907, Major Henchley organised in Canterbury a detachment of the Royal Army Medical Corps Volunteers. This was attached to the Maidstone comp a nies until the disbandment. of the old volunteer movement.

Upon the formation of the new Terntorial Force, Dr. Henchley was requested by the Director G e neral A. M.S., to raise a field ambulance, and as a result of his energy and aptitude for organisation, the corps now sta nds at ISO ; and as detachments are now in course of form a ti o n both at Ashford and Whitstable, there is but litt le doubt that it will soon be at full strength.

Major Henchley is desevedly popular amongst all classes in the cathedral city. He is at all times ready to lend his aid to any mov e ment having as its aim the oi his fellow citi zens. He i3 an earnest and convmcmg speaker, and possesses that ready tact which inspires confidence in those under his leadership. He is a Freemason, and althou a h not an active worker in the craft, h e acts u? to the inculcated in its for in friendship he is truly an? a cI:cle ?f who have realised this wtll umte With us 10 WIshIng him health and tbat success to which he is so thoroughly entitled.

The First International Congress on Life Saving and First Aid.

Pltoto "J'] [If. B Collis, Canterz,uy), Hospital, obtained his degr e e of M.p. Brux in I9 0 3, L.S.A. in I903, L.R.c.P., L.R.C.S. Edm., L.F.P.S. Glas., and L. M. in 1898. .'

While a student the major took a keen lnterest m all matters appertaining to rowing .and and cups which he won attest to hIS prowess In the athletIC field. In 1895 he was one of the selecte.d to sent his hospital for the Inter-HospItal ChamplOn. Match on which occasion the Middlesex proved Victonous.

Major Henchley early identified with the ambulance movement, and since he qualified. m .1898, he has devoted much time to the furtherance of ltS aIms.

In the year 1901, upon the application ?f War Office for the services of civil surgeons, for serVIce With the Army Medical Department, Major voluntee.red and was appointed to the "Herbert" HospItal, WoolWIch, which is, as most of our readers are aware, one of military hospitals in this country. Here he remamed unt11 the year 1903, and during that period some .thousands of invalided troops passed .hospltal. It was doubtless the experience gamed at thIS. tIme that gave major that insight into military medical must have doubtless proved so valuable to hIm m orgamsing and training the men of the new force.

SPECIALL Y CONTRIBUTED.

WHIT SUNTIDE the season of congresses, brought with it this year the number the first session of the International First t> Aid Congress. The gathering has been fittingly named international, and truly it has been called so for some nine hundred d ,:, legates, representmg practically every civilised c?untry i? t.he. were present. As we anticipated, smce its mltlatlOn, has pro,:,ed a phenomenal success, so muc':1 so that a speCIal resolutlOn was passed deciding that the. next conference should be held in Vienna in five years' tIme, and that a permane?t International Committee should be immediately created m each country. We are pleased to record that Mr. S. Osborne, F.R.C.S., has.been. appointed first permanent secretary on this commIttee 10 Great Bntam.

The results of the Congress are of such a character and of such utility that their importance, cannot be over estimated. Although the best and practIcal resurts will not immediately be felt, ic will no doubt lead to the I letter making and .up on modern hnes of this neglected noble work 10 cml life.

The telegram received from the Emperor dUrIng the

-FtRST

sitting must have been very gratifying to the delegates:"I express to the first International First Aid Congress my thanks for their loyal greetings and their thought of me. I am glad that in the domain of life-saving a new bond has been created of peaceful competition for all nations interested in the great work of civilisation, and that an opportunity is afforded for the exchange of experience gained and the progress made in the various branches of this noble work. That the first meeting of the kind should have taken place on German soil fills me with particular satisfaction when I think of the services rendered by men like Friedrich von Esmarch and Ernst von Bergmann. I will follow the discussion of the Congress with the liveliest interest, and I trust that complete success will crown this humane work for the benefit of all our fellow creatures who in misfortune and need are bound to rely upon the active assistance of their fellow men."

The responsibility of the success of the Congress largely rested upon the German Organising Committee, who had spared neither energy or expense to attain this happy result. They have done much to keep the thought of serious work before the gathering and not make it, as is often the case, a series of social receptions for the delegates.

It was officially opened on the loth inst by Dr. Bumm, the President, at the Jugelhaus, an Academy of Commercial Science, the following were appointed Vice-Secretaries in recognition of the work they had done in furthering the success of the Congress:- Dr. S. Osborne (England), Dr. Mynlieff (Holland), Dr. Rene Sand (Belgium), Dr. Aladar Kovach (Austria).

In order that the proceedings could be carried through in the four days, the work was divided into three groups, each divided into three or more sections:-

Group A consisted of sections on First Medical Aid; Lay Help and Teaching; First Aid and Life Saving in Cities.

Group B.-First Aid and Life Saving in Industrial Districts ; First Aid and Life Saving in Country Districts (railroad and automobile traffic); First Aid and Life Saving on Sea and Coast; First Aid and Life and Spon.

Group C.-First Aid and Life Saving in Mines; First Aid and LIfe Saving in Mountainous Countries.

On each day the proceedings were commenced at 9 o clock, and each section was assigned a separate sessionroom in the Jligelhaus. On the 11th and 12th united meetings of all sections were held. The papers read and discussed-many of them by writers of acknowledged authority-numbered over ninety in number, dealing practically with every section of life-saving and first aid work, were intended to stimulate thotlght and study, and to promote the advancement of the two subjects.

From Great Britain we had papers contributed by Mr. Albert Oppeoheimer, on "First Aid and Life Saving in Mines"; S. Osborn, "First Aid in London"; Mr. W. E. Garforth, "Suggested Rules for Recovering Coal Mines after Explosions and Fires"; Dr. Lionel West "Methods of Rescue and Transport of Injured after Rock Climbing and Mou.ntai.neering Accidents." We hope at a future date to pubhsh 10 some of the papers, and also to deal by extracts wlth others.

That the Congress has proved a success it can be granted, but that the desired objects may be attained we beware of too .hasty an assumption, the only hnes we see on whlch these ends may result is that some form of consultive body in each country as a of the Congress, eventually emerge 10 to glve competent to industrial and public authontles as to the orgaOlsatlOn of first aid and life

At D.- Junes 19 08

saving work. It has often appeared to us most strange that England with her millions of population, her densely crowded cities and highly consentrated life, has but one organisation of any size in which this humane work is advanced. If this body suggested were formed, the practical results of the deliberations of the Congress would be circulated to the community and not remain the individual knowledge of the delegates.

We regret that our space will not permit of our dealing more fully with the proceedings of the Congress in this issue, but shall again take up the matter in our July number.

Guessing versus First Aid.

By ANOTHER AJvIBULANCE JUDGE.

WHILST in full sympathy with the words of your correspondent, that "the competitions held by the St. John Ambulance Association ought to be the best of the kind in the country, and ought to set an example for fair and straightforward work." yet I can by no means agree with him in his strong condemnation of the test submitted in the recent Inter-Railway Competition. I am not for one moment suggesting that the test is an absolutely perfect one, but what I do most formally contend is that the underlying principle is most excellent, and just what is needed in such an important competdion. It introduces the necessity for just exactly what is required in cases of real emergency, i e., concentration of thought, and prompt appreciation of the most likely possibilities, foLowed by readiness of resource, which will be shown by more intelligmt handling of the patient, prior to, and during the careful examination that necessarily must be gone through (to a greater or less extent).

The crucial point must not be lost sight of, that in actual emergency, as distinct from the usual competition tests, the patient is never labelled as to the disability from which he or she is suffering. How much more convenient would it be if this could always be the case. In emergency, therefore-whether actual, or in competition-the ambulance man or wom.an who is prepared promptly to determine, in his or her mind, as to possible contingencies, ani. to act with intelligence accordingly, will undoubtedly and most deservedly score heavily over those whose resourcefulness of mind is less active.

In such an important ambulance competition as the one under consideration, the object must be to discover the most reliable and trustworthy team for actual emergencies as they occur in daily lz/e, prior to arrival of professional advice)' and such tests are the most practically important, and most strongly to be commended, as will necessitate the exercising of the reasoning facilities-the purely mechanical task of bandaging, or otherwise treating labelled injuries, &c., being of a comparatively elementary description.

INTERNATIONAL FIRE BRIGADES COMPETITION AT PARI

S.-The two teams, each of five men, who attended this competition during Whitsun tide, under the command of Capt. Bradley, of Ton bridge, and Capt. Preston, of Milton, received an excellent reception. After the English teams had concluded their wet steamer drill, Mr. Cheron, Secretary of State of the Home Office, arrived on the ground, and at his request another display was given, at the conclusion of which the Secretary of State complimented the two officers and expressed himself highly pleased.

June, 19 08 -FIRST

AI D.-

Hon. Surgeon Vaughan Bateson reported on the work of the City Division, S.J.A.B., specially referring to the various public duties which had been undertaken by the members.

On the proposition of the Chief Constable, a vote of thanks was accorded to the Lord YIayor for presiding, and to the Lady Mayoress for having kindly distributed certificates to the successful pupils at the recent classes.

BRADFORD.-The annual meeting of the local Centre was held at the Town Hall, under the presidency of the Lord Mayor, on May 21St. The hon. secretary (Mr. J.

On June 1st Mr. and Mrs. Farndale celebrated their silver wedding, and were the recipients of many congratulatory letters, in addition to which the City Magistrates presented the popular Chief and his equally popular wife with a pair of solid silver dessert or fruit stands, whilst from the members of the City Police Force they received a silver

[ F Bailey, CaJlterfmry. P hot o by ) L.-Corp. Mannock. Pte. Constable. S.-Sergt. W. Mant. L.-Corp. Edwards. L.-Corp. Sharpe.

This annual competition, open to the non-commissioned officers men of the R.A.M.C. (Vols ) , rr Home Counties Field Ambulance, was this year seyerely contested. Five .teams entered, secured the trophy only by the narrow margm of one mark. The was presente y t y Canterbury (Alderman F. Bennett Goldney, F .S.A. )

Farndale Chid Constable) read the report, which was of a satisfactdry nature the balance in hand being £22.

The Lord was elected President of the Centre on the proposition of Hon. Surgeon Vaughan .. In accepting the office, the Lord Mayor h ls admuation of the work done by the AssOClatlOn and Its departments. Mr. Garbutt was elected Hon. Secretary, Dr. Vaughan Bateson, Hon. Treasurer, and Dr. A. Gray, Chairman of Committee.

epergne and a pair of vases to match.. friends in the ambulance world will unite WIth us 1.n wlshmg Mr. and Mrs. Farndale many more years of happmess together.

IpSWICH.-On June 6th H H. Princess Louise Augusta of Schleswi.g Holstein, :vho recently accepted the presidency of thIS centre, paId a VISIt to the for the purpose of presenting certificates and. to the successful pupils at the recent exammatlOns. Her

WINNING TEAM OF THE "BENNETT GOLDNEY" CHALLENGE SHIELD, 1908

-FIRST

Highness was received on arrival by the chairman of the centre, Col. G. S. Elliston, the hon. secretary, Miss Cou1cher, and several mem bers of the local committee and medical staff.

The approach to the grounds where the ceremony was to take place had been prettily decorated, and the long pathway was lined by members of the Ipswich Corps, the Gippeswyk Division, and the Nursing Division.

Her Highness, who arrived in a motor car, was accompanied by Mr. and Lady BeatricePretyman. Miss Hawkes and Sir Edward Poynter, and was accorded a most hearty and enthusiastic welcome, the Ambulance Band playing the National Anthem. The Princess having taken her seat upon the platform, Col. Elliston, in the name of the Centre, txtended to Her Highness a hearty welcome to the ancient town of Ipswich. Referring to the progress which ambu· lance work was making, Col. Eilisto!, pointed out that their Centre was one of the first to initiate it in connection with our railways. They were justly proud of their transport work, which would compare favourably with that in vogue in any other town in the kingdom, for promptitude in answering a call, and for the comfort and suitability of their vehicles. They were doing the same work on land as the lifeboat did on the s ':!a.

Miss Cou1cher having handed to the Princess a handsome bouquet, the presentation commenced. The names of the various recipients were read out, and advancing in turn they received at the hands of the Royal Lady the award to which they were entitled, and which in every case was given with either an encouraging word or pleasant smile. The prizes in connection with the recent Nursing Competition for Mr. Hossack's Rose Bowl were next presented, and then Her Highness handed to Chief Surgeon Eades and Hon. Surgeon Fryer respective the Insignia of Honorary Associate of the Order of St. John, which, with the sanction of His Majesty the King, had been conferred upon them by His Royal Highness the Grand Prior and the Chapter of the Order.

Vellum votes of thanks for services rendered to the Order and its departments were also to have been presented to Hon. Surgeons Hossack, Hoyland and Ward but they were unavoidably prevented from being present.

The Rev. J. Powell, in proposing a vote of thanks to Her Highness, said that her visit had given them a very great deal of pleasure, and coupled with the fact that she had gr.aciously accepted the post of president would give a great Impetus to the work and materially strengthen the hands of their popular and energetic lady secretary, who had worked so hard and unceasingly on behalf of the centre for a period of cl0 5e on thirty years.

Mr. J ackaman seconded, and said that he felt sure that the students who had taken their certificates and medallions that day would value them more highly on account of having received them from the hands of the gracious lady who they were pleased to welcome that day as their president.

The vO.te was carried with acclamation, and Mr. Pretyman, thanks on behalf of Her Highness, sajd he was desired. by the Princess to say how very interested she had been With all that she had heard and witnessed and how thoroughly she appreciated their kind welcome.

Her Highness then inspected the ambulance station vehicles and appliances, finally leaving the ground hearty cheers.

WHEN CQBRERPONDING WiTH ADVER· TISERS PLEASE MENTION "FIRST AlD."

AID.- June, 1908.

Reviews.

THE TERRITORIAL ARMY SCHEME.

By Captain F. F. Rynd, D.S.O., R.G.A., late Adjutant 1st City of London, R.G.A. (Vols. )

This little brochure should be purchased by all who are interested in the working of Mr. Haldane's new scheme. Capt. Rynd gives evidence of having made a careful study of the new Act, and he writes clearly and concisely upon the many intricate points which seem to surround it. We should certainly advise all members of county associations to possess a copy, and the intending recruit will do well to spend a shilling on its acquisition prior to enrolment. A perusal of its pages will speedily convince him that the pains and penalties which are said to beset the path of the territorial soldier are more imaginary than real.

The book is published by Messrs. Clowes and Sons, Cockspur-street, Charing Cross, S.W., at one shilling.

THE LAW OF HOSPITALS.

By Arthur Tumour Murray, B.A., Barrister-at-Law.

The object of the author, as set out in his preface, has been to bring together into one volume the many legal questions which affect all kinds of medical institutions and Mr. Tumour Murray has succeeded most admirably in attaining bis object, the result being a most valuable addition to the library of anyone interested in hospitals or kindred institutions. The author has evidently given much careful study to the law as applied to the management of hospitals, and there is hardly a legal question which may arise that is not quoted and explained. To members of Hospital Committees and Boards of Guardians this book should prove a valuable mentor in assisting them in the proper discharge of their duties.

We would suggest that in future editions it would be advantageous, bearing in mind the formation of the new Territorial Medical Forces, to give more information regarding naval and military hospitals. The book will take its place amongst the standard works on hospital administration, and we especially congratulate the author on his method of arrangement; the carefully compiled index is not the least valuable part of the book, providing as it does a ready reference to the subjects dealt with.

The book is published by John Murray, Albemarle-street, London, W., and the price is ten shillings and sixpence.

SCOUTING FOR BOYS.

Last month we called the attention of our readers to a valuable addition to the literature for our boys, by the introduction of a weekly journal, Th e S cout, edited by Major-General Baden-Powell. We have since received from the publishers, Messrs. C. Arthur Pearson, Ltd., Henrietta-street, London, a copy of the new handbook prepared by the General for the trainmg of his boy scouts. I t is a capital book teeming with interest, and not a dull page is to be found within its covers. I t should be on every boy's bookshelf and in every school library.

,

I t has been by some worthy folk that the book is mainly intended to foster a spirit of militarism, but such is not evidenced by a perusal of its pages. Its main object is to promote good citizenship, surely, one of tbe highest ideals which can be set before the youth of the Empire. It also inculcates the spirit of herO Ism in its truest sense by teaching the lesson of coolness in the face of panic; above all it impresses on the youthful scouts the lessons of chivalry, of courtesy to women, their duty to their God, and impresses on them never to forget the allegiance tbat they owe to the Sovereign of native land. Instruction is given in life-saving from fire, from drowning, and how to render first aid in accidents, and at the end of each chapter various books are recommended to enable the stydent to further perfect himself in the particular study dealtl With.

June, 1908 -FtRST

It would occupy too much space to thoroughly dilate upon the many interesting chapters with whicb the book abounds, but our advice to boys, and the fathers of boys, is to obtain a copy. A careful study of its can but tend to make them brighter and more lads, and, therefore, more promising citizens, added to which the knowledge gained may, on emergency, be the means of rendering timely aid to a comrade in distress.

The book is full of interesting illustrations, many of which help to elucidate some of the matter It is published in paper covers at one shillmg, or bound m cloth two shillings.

SUPPLEMENARY FIRST AID TO MINERS.

By William B. Arthur, L.R.C.P.

The author of this little booklet does not claim that It IS a complete first aid manual; it is written rather as an adjunct to the other official or standard text books. I t pages are devoted principally to the treatment of those casualties which are most co'mmon amongst those working in mines. Especially mteresting and instructive is that section of the book devoted

all parts of the world. Our readers will remember that in its early days this Journal lent its advocacy to bring the claims of the Society before the members of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, and as a re'3ult many classes were formed in connection with provincial corps and divisions. Although not now so intimately connected with its work we still take a great interest in it, and shall at all times be pleased to do anything we can to further its aims and objects.

Copies of the Handbook, price one shilling (post free IS. yd. ), may be obtained from the Chief Secretary, 8, Bayleystreet, Bedford-square, W.C., who will also be pleased to forward any further particulars as to the formation of classes, etc.

Caledonian Railway Prize Essay.

MR. ROBERT MILLAR, General Manager of the above Railway, recently offered a prize of two guineas for the best essay contribute d by a member of the Caledonian Railway Ambulance Brigade on the subject of "Respiration." There were a large number of entries, and Professor Knox, who adjudicated awarded the prize to Mr. Gavin S. Richard,

to the treatment of electric shock, the illustrations which accompany the letterpress are excellent, and the gi: es clear and concise directions as to the methods for dlvertlDg or cutting off the current. The book should find a ready sale amongst those connected with the mining industry. . It is published at sixpence by Messrs. John Wng ht and Co., Bristol.

HANDBOOK ON LIFE SAVING.

The tenth edition of tRe Handbook of Instruction issued by the Royal Wfe Saving Society is just to hand. I has been most thoroughly and carefully reVised and brought up to date, and includes a descriptive drill for the teachlDg of the Schafer meth0d of artificial respiration, which system we are glad to see the Society has adopted. All who incline to the opinion that every boy and gnl should learn to swim must naturally be interested in the progress of the Royal Life Saving Society, and it is gratifying to be able to report that since. its about. se,:enteen years ago, it has been the pioneer of slmtlar orgamsatlons in

a clerk ' in the office of the Distl ict Supt. of the Line, at In offering his congratulations to the successful competitor, the General IVlanare.r mentions that Professor Knox commented on the very h1gh standard of excellence attained by the members who competed,. Mr. Richard is therefore to be highly congratulated on hIS success. We have much pleasure in presenting his essay in this month s number of FIRST AID, not doubting that it will prove interesting to our readers, especially to. those who are fellow workers with the writer. We are ll1debted to Mr. Richard for the copy cf thi<; e!"Sfly.

RESPIRATION.

Why do we breathe? That we may live. But what is life? We cannot tell. We do know that there are certain functions which must be performed if life is to be sustained and that breathing is one of them. We know also the part breathing plays in the sustaining of life.

-FIRST

Every tissue of the body is in a state of perpetual chemical change. This is the source of all boddy heat. The change is of a dual character. There is a brea.king down and a building up, a rejecting of used materIal, and an assimilation of new. For the maintenance of this process three things are necessary-food, oxygen, and an elimination of waste products.

An engine rece ives coal into its furnaces, but, unless there is a continuous supply of air, there will be no combustion. The fuel will not burn unless oxygen is brought into contact with it.

Similarly in a living creature, the fuel takes the form of food) which is prepared by the digestive organs and distributed throughout the body.

Some of the food has oxygen in its substance, which aids the combustion, but the principal supply is obtained by bringing the blood into close proximity to the oxygen of the medium in which the creature lives.

In fishes, this is brought about by means of gills on the outside of the body. These are in constant contact with the water in which the fish lives, and hence the blood is able to receive from the water, oxygen, which it conveys to the tissues, and at the same time, to rid itself of its impurities.

Man's natural surrounding medium is air, and the exchange is effected by means of lungs. As the lungs are situated within the body, apparatus is necessary to bring the blood into contact with the oxygen of the air.

(I.) RESPIRATORY MACHINER Y

The air passage to the lungs is made up of the nostrils and the mouth, the pharynx, the larynx, the trachea and the bronchi.

On entering the substance of the lungs, the bronchi divide into bronchial tubes, which subdivide and grow smaller in diameter and thinner in wall the farther they penetrate into the organ.

The lungs occupy almost the entire space in the thorax. They are of a spongy elastlc texture, and each is enveloped in a membrane called a pleura. This has two layers, one of which adheres to the lung, and the other to the chest wall. The layers slide smoothly over each other, and thus prevent friction between the lung and the chest wall in the movements of respiration. Each lung is divided into lobes. The right lung has three and the left two. A lobe is subdivided into many lobules, each of which contains a branch from the bronchial tubes, air cells, and blood-vessels. The blood-vessels, or capillaries, surround the air cells, and are separated from them only by a very thin wall, thus bringing the blood and the air into very close proximity.

The principal muscle used in respiration is the diaphragm, a large thin membrane, which separates the thorax from the abdominal cavity. It is dome-shaped with the concavity downwards, and has great power _ of contraction and expansion. The muscles of the ribs are also used in enlarging and decreasing the chest cavity.

(2.) RESPIRATORY MECHANISM.

Respiration has two acts-inspiration, and expiration

In inspiration, the chest is enlarged in all its dimensions; vertically, by the fall of the diaphragm; laterally, and from back to front, by elevation of the ribs and the lower end of the breast bone, brought about by the contraction of their respective muscles.

This expansion of the chest wall causes an increase in the capacity of the internal cavity. is, therefore, a diminution in the air pressure in the lungs, and so there is a rush of air from the outside into the lungs to eq uali se the pressure.

AID.- June, 1908.

In forced inspiration, as in choking, or in violent exercise, a number of chest and neck muscles come into operation to assist those in ordinary use. Expiration is accomplished by the elastic recoil of the lungs and chest wall, subsequent on a relaxation of the muscles contracted in inspiration. There is no muscular effort. In forced expiration, however, as in loud singing, and speaking, blowing, coughing and sneezing, the abdominal muscles press on the lower viscera. These press against the diaphragm, which, in turn, presses on the lungs, and thus forces out the air. The muscles which depress the ribs ale also used.

(3.) ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION.

The fact that enlargement of the chest cavity causes a natural inrush of air to the lungs, is the basis of artificial respiration, used where persons through immersion in water, or other cause, have lost consciousness. If the arms be raised above the head, the muscles elevate the ribs. This expands the upper part of the chest, and admits air. A lowering of the arms allows the ribs to fall back and drives out the inspired air.

(4.) CHEMISTRY OF RESPIRATION.

The air in a single inspiration reaches only as far as the larger bronchial tubes. The smaller tubes and air cells receive it by diffusion. In these there is always cc Stationary Air," whi c h, while it changes in composition with each inspiration and expiration, is constant in quantity, and in the air cells is always in juxtaposition to the blood. The blood in the capillaries gives off carbonic acid gas and water, throu g h the dividing wall of the air in the air-cell, and, at the same tim e, is a rterialized by th e oxygen which it receives through the wall from the air.

The carbonic acid and the water are th e products of chemical change in the tissu es where the oxygen of the arterialized blood has combined with the carbon and the hydrogen elements.

Thus the function of inspiration is to carry oxygen to the while that of expiration is to carry carbonic acid gas and water in the form of vapour from the blood.

(5.) HYGIENE OF RE SP IRATION.

Since oxygen is essential to the chemical activities throughout the body, strict attention to giving the lungs an ample and continu'ous supply must be conducive to health.

In the open air, even in large cities, there is always a sufficient quantity, but, as we spend much of our lives indoors, it is necessary to make the ventilation of our rooms effective, that the atmosphere may be kept fresh.

In these days ventilation is receiving more attention, and has become a science. This is only as it should be, since so much depends on it for the well-being, not only of the individual, but also of the community, and even of the country itself

That energetic and enterprising firm, Messrs. Henry Simonis and Co., of Norfolk House, Strand, has just celebrated the fifth anniversary of the establishment of their business in London. Our readers will remember how at the time of the Fire Exhibition we expressed the opinion that there was an opening in this country for an up-to-date, go-ahead manufacturer of fire appliances; the very marked success which has attended the business efforts of this enterprising firm proves our contention was correct. Chief Officers w.ho may be contemplating additions to their gear should wnte to Messrs. Simonis for prices for hose, pompier ladders, life-saving appliances, including turn-table or watertower escapes, &c.

June, 19 08

Al D.-

more exits should be provided, especially by means of iron stairs on the outside of buildings. Rooms divided from other part of the school, such as the carpentry rooms, should have two e xits, one at each end, and these would have to be provided, if it was a place of amllsement The po:;sibility of fire is far greater here, and yet only one e xi prevails.

Let us hope that the Board of Education will see that the local bodies do carry out this work and that speedily.-I am, sir, yours, " 0 NE WHO THIN KS."

-<S4J>

We are in no way responsible jor the opinions expressed, or the statements made, by Correspondents.-EDITORS.

FRACTURED PELVIS, METHOD OF REMOVAL.

DEAR SIR,-I am pleased with the letters in May FIRST AID in reply to mine of April, and I have to thank Supt. Hatch for his remarks.

I had occasion once to treat a man suffering from a fracture of the iliac spine, and I am fully aware that the utmost car e and tenderness is required when lifting the patient, but even when lifting on a blanket there is a great tendency for the broken portion of the ilium to be pressed inwards and so excruciating pain, and my opinion is that if the broken pelVIS is co mfortahly supported with bandages, the lifting, according to No. drill, can be successfully effected But I may point out that my letter in the April issue did not refer to actual first aid, but to an ambulance competition, and I maintain that these should be judged strictly in accordance with the text book and not according to the Judge s personal ideas.

If competitions are to be judged according to private opinions and not upon the text book, then we must have a published, containing the various ideas of dIfferent Judges, In order that we may all have an opportunity to learn their peculiar fads and fancies.

As far as I understand r:ompetitions, and the marking sheets for them, the several tests are copied from the text book and marks awarded accordingly.

I t may be interesting to some to know that the team that Co lonel Lees Hall declared the winners of the" Lynn Town" Cup finished 8th in the G.E.R. competit.ion, and t?e team that was declared last by him at Lynn finIshed 3rd 111 the InterRailway final. -Yours, &c., ." LINNET. "

FIRE PROTECTION IN SCHOOLS.

DEAR SIR,-I read with pleasure your editorial in the April issue on the above important. It is , .as you say, claimed that the system of preventIOn agamst fire IS of so perfect a character that a pan ic is well nigh impossible; but are we justified in making this claim, seeing .that m?st of our Co uncil Schools in the suburbs are practically WIthout aI?-Y protection at all; and I maintain that an of fire 111 many places would prove very disastrous even thIs. sIde of tl:e "pond." How many of our schools have doors whIch open tn and out? How many of the doors of the class-rooms open inwards? What an eye-opener it would be if the Government Inspector had to report on this on next visit.

You say most of our schools are tn charge of a true if of any size but what chance have they of dealtng WIth an a fire pail most of have no other means of extinction. How many of these paIls would be found ready when owing to their been taken ?-way by the school staff? They have no applIances beyond thIS, even in schools where 1,500 children are assembled, yet the owner.s, the Councils, are the people who of publ.lc amusement to provide fire hydrants and extmgUlshers tn prominent places. Lodging houses, too, must have eXIts on either side of the room, and ladders from top floors to street, &c.

Fire drill is an excellent thing and needful, but how lIke the horse we should find rr.any of the cbildren when they face to face with fire-possibly they would not budge an. tnch; and if they did, like the elephant, it would be to turn and run back Then provision should be made and that qLl1ckly;

[Our correspondent is a little in error; we d id not say in our edi torial " that it was clai med that our system of prevent ion against fire is of so perfect a character, &c." Our contention was that it was "claimed that our system of school fire drill is of so perfect a character, &c." The whole trend of our article went to show that as a rule the methods available for fire extinct ion were inadequdte. We are glad to know that our views are endorsed by many of our readers, and shall hope to hear more about this important question.-ED. "F. A. "]

National Fire Brigades Union.

The" Clarnico " Fire Brigade has to add yet another laurel to its crown, having had the proud distinction of being selected as Guard of Honour to their Royal Highnesses tbe Prince and Princess of Wales, on May 28th last, the occasion being the opening of the new Public Library at Hackney, presented to that borough by Mr. Andrew Carnegie.

The Guard was commanded by the Chief Officer, Capt. G. M. Horn, with 2nd Officer Simpson, 3rd Officer Sorrell, and eighty N.C.O.'s, men and band.

The Guard formed up inside the boundary of Hackney, at the canal bridge in Cam.bridge Heath-road, in readiness to receive their Royal HIghnesses, and after they had passed on to the Library, marched Mare-st:eet and took up position outside Hackney RaIlway StatIOn, that being the route by which the Royal party left the borough.

The men looked exceptionally smart and busmesshke, thEir bearing and marching being excellent, so much so that an Army officer was heard to remark that they would be a credit to any line regiment.

The detachment was enthusiastically received all along the route, the Brigade being well known and appreciated throughout the district.

Where to stay at 5carborouQh the Camp Week.

HE GR "N D HOTEL is the finest and largest on T f-\ the North-East Coas t, directly overlooking the Bay, and adjoining the Spa. 350 rooms. The only Holel in Scarborough with H ot and Cold Sea Water (always re ady) in Balhrooms. Band performs twice daily during Season. Moderate Tariff • H. MUNRO JOIINSTON, Nat. Tel.: No. I, Scarbro Manager.

"ST. ALMA" (SOUTH CLIFF).

First-Class Boarding Establishment. Over 30 Bedrooms Billiard and Smoking Rooms. Terms, from 6s. 6d. per day. J. COPLAND, Projrt.'dor.

Rescue Apparatus for Mines, &C.

To

the Brigade were allowed to lapse and no further opportunity seemed likely to occur.

Aids to Memory

FOR First Aid Students.

By L. M. FRANK CHRISTIAN, M.B., C.M., Edin. lIon. Life l11eJllber o/, alld Examiner for, the SI jolm A mbula1Zce AssociatioJl.

" I it to the members of '!'y class last night, and am ordering 3 dozen from SI. John s Gate for Ihem. Wish the book all the success it deserves"

" The h igh water mark in books of its kind." is most admirably arranged, and should prove invaluable to those con' cerned In ambulance matters."

" \Ve haye seen and read many text books on this subject, but i has not been our pnvilege to revIew one of which we so thoroughly approved."

PRICE SIXPENCE NET (post free 7d.).

Ordo's oj one dozen and over, fost Jree.

STOCKPORT: CONNELL & BAILEY, "EXPRESS" OFFICE, ST PETER'S SQUARE, and ST. JOHN AMBULANCE ASSOCIATION, ST. JOHN'S GATE,

AMBULANCE BOOKS AT GREAT REDUCTIONS!

N EW B.OOKS at 2 5 per cent. Discount. All kinds of MedIcal and other Books supplied. Sent on approval. Catal.ogues free. Books purchased. -W. & G. FOYLE 135 CharIng Cross-road, London, W.C. ' , 8 UPERINTEN .DEN TS Uniforms, Mess Dress, and very complete for Sale, .height 5 ft. 8 in.-For partIculars and prIce apply W. Hamson, Stramongate Bridge KendaL '

Seventh Edition, Revised Enlarged. With Additional Illustrations. Post 8vo, 2S. net.

FIRST AID TO THE INJURED.

Six Ambulance Lectures.

By Dr. FRIEDRICH ESMARCH. Translated from the German by H.R.H. PRINCESS CHRISTIAN.

Tlze Schoolm.asl.el' : . anxious to gain Imowledge m the art of relIeVIng pam, or pOSSIbly of saving life, cannot do better than study these interesting and instructive pages.

London: SMITH, ELDER & CO., IS, WATERLOO PLACE, S.W.

Just

"FIRST AID" TO THE INJURED AND SICK.

An Advanced Ambulance Handbook.

By F WARWICK, B.A •• M.B., Cantab., and A. C. TUNSTALL M.D., F.R.C.S., Edin. " Has already taken its place as a standard work. "-Bn·t. Med. jour.

Founh Edition. On Sheets 2 fr. 2 in. by 3 ft. 4in. 25. each, or 27S. 6d. net. the set of .8 Sheets, or mounted o n Linen 455. net. \V ith ,ekel Head for Suspension.

Adopted by the WAR OFFICE, the ADMIRALTY, and the LONDON SCHOOL BOARD.

LARCE SHEET "FIRST AID" DIACRAMS

Of the lllustrations in Warwick & Tunstall's" 'FIRST AID' TO THE INJURED AND SICK."

Paper Covers, Interleaved, 6d. net. Post free 7d. AMBULANCE EXAMINATION QUESTIONS.

By D M. MACDONALD, M.B., Sltrg Lieut. 2nd Scottislt Hone. ." Will be fou,nd extremely useful by lh<!se attending the lectures prescribed by the dIfferent ASSOCIatIOns, amI whoare preparIng for the examinations. '-B"oad An'ow.

BRISTOL: JOHN WRIGHT & CO. London Depot: "4, Paternoster Sq., E.C.

LONDON: SIMPKIN, MARSHALL, HAMILTON, KENT & CO., Ltd.

DEWSBURY CARNIVAL AMBULANCE COMPETITlON

OR THORNES' CU p" July 11th, 1903, at Dewsbury

Open to tbe RaIlway, Police and Collieries. 1st pnze.-Challenge Cup and 5 Hall Marked Silver Keyless Lever Watches, value 5s.

As it is the wish and desire of the Proprietors to make this Journal as instructive and entertaining as possible, correspondents in all parts of the country are asked to giye it all the help they can. Superintendents of Corps and Officers of Divisions of the St. John Ambu lan ce Brigade, Officers of the Royal Army Medical Corps (Volunteers), the Volunteer Ambulance School of Instruction, and Chief Officers of Fire Brigades will, it is hoped, do their best to make it known amongst the members of their respective organisations, and will also send for publication their official news and notices. Suggest tions are invited for Prize Competitions and other mallers which will advance the interest of the] ournal.

'Ve particularly desire to ask our correspondents to be brief and to the point in any communications they may send us for publication.

Correspondents sending in photos are urgently requested to state on the back of the same the name of the individual or the Corps or Brigade, and give also the name and address of the sender.

We beg to advise our readers that we do not pay for photographs or copy sent, unless previously agreed upon in writing.

" First Aid" is published on the 20th of the month.

EDITORIAL.

However, in 1903, in conjunction with the International Fire Exhibition, an effort was made to arrange for an ambulance congress to be held in this country to follow the Fire Brigades Congress which was being held in connection with the Fire Exhibition. A strong committee was got together and several meetings were held, but the movement lacked the support necessary to ensure its success, and it was finally abandoned, much to the regret of several enthusiastic supporters of the cause, who, had they received the support upon which they undoubtedly relied, would have carried the movement to a successful issue.

We must admit that the programme of the Exhibition, even without the addition of the ambulance items, was a very full one, and to this fact no doubt may have been partly accountable the lack of support, both moral and financial, which was accorded to the Ambulance Committee by the Exhibition authorities.

Frankfort.

THE first International First Aid and Life Saving Congress has been held. and although we may regret that this country did not take the initiative in promoting the gathering and arrange for it to be held in our own metropolis, we to offer to our German confreres our heartiest cong ratu lationss on the very signal success which has atte nded their venture.

It will be within the recollection of our readers that as long ago as 1897 we first advocated the holding of such a Congress, pointing out that this country had practically been the pioneer in first aid instruction among all classes of the civil community, and th at in order to still further aid its progress other nations should be approached and !nvited to send delegates to attend the annual Conference of the St. John Ambulance Brigade which was then about to be held. It was a very modest proposal, and one that would not have involved any large expenditure either in connection with the organisatisn or propaganda, but enterprise was lacking and the proposal came to nothing, and shortly afterwards the annual Conferences of

It is, however, useless to mourn over lost opportunities; this country has had chances in the past, but has hitherto neglected to take advantage of them. It would appear that for some years at least the opportunity will not occur again, as we learn that the selected venue for the next Congress, which will take place in five years time, is Vienna. We could have wished that the interval of time before the holding of the next Congress had been less, and that the place of meeting had been in our own country; but we must admit that Vienna has many claims to urge in its favour, not the least of which is the fact that it was in this city that the late Baron Mundy planned and carried out so many reforms for the benefit of suffering humanity.

It is early days yet to speculate as to the benefits which are likely to accrue to the movement as a result of this, the first International Congress, but it is gratifying to know that one very practical outcome of the gathering is the formation of an International Bureau. This will serve to maintain a friendly interchange of views between the various represent9.ti\ces, and assist in the promotion of fef'lings of friendship, one to another, which is the logical outcome of an enthusiastic interest in all that appertains to the minimising of human suffering, and the saving of human life,

Notes on Railway Ambulance.

A PAPER READ AT THE FIRST INTERNATIONAL FIRST Am CONGRESS.

By JAMES W. CROSTON, F.G.S. (MANCHESTER).

RAILWAY ambulance work is now coming to the front by reason of the large number of men attending first aid classes and obtaining certificates, yet there is something wanting, for Corps drills and practices are not attended as they should be, few men seeming to take an interest in the work after obtaining their certificates. Others may continue to Ul:dergo instruction until such time as they have gained their medallion, when they allow the su bject to drop, sending any case of accident which may come under their notice to one of their fellows, or, perhaps, taking no notice of it at all, an omission which is perhaps as well, many of them, dGubtless, having already forgotten what they once knew just sufficiently well to gain the certificate.

It is well known that but fe,,, of the men, in comparis ::m with the number going through the classes, afterwards join the corps or brigade, and some of these are quite unable to answer questions put in any other form than that given in the text book. The reason is obvious.

Tile question naturally arises how can ambulance work be conducted in order to give the greatest help to those who, owing to the nature of their occupations, are at all times liable to accident or sudden illness.

Is there not some way by which railway ambulance work may be made a most important branch of first aid in peace and war, by thoroughly training men in both first aid and advanced first aid or nursing, so that in case of invasion they could act in conjunction with the Royal Army Medical Corps, by taking charge of all medical trains conveying the sick and injured to the base hospitals. I shall deal with such a train latter on in my paper.

Railway ambulance work at present depends largely upon individual effort and the personality of certain men. Those taking up the work have to do so in their own time, the Company providing the text books and paying for the instruction. To this fact is partly attributable the small number of men who afterwards keep on with the work.

Could not this be remedied to a very great extent if the hea ds of department would give more encouragement by example and assistance?

One way which has been mentioned is to make the ambulance work a term of the service, but this is distinctly objectionable, as all compulsion must be, and furthermore it would not encourage or make good men.

Before further considering the subject let us look at the principal departments of a railway which are the most liable to accidents.

They may roughly be divided as follows :-

AI D.- July, 19 08

tions for the instruction and training of men for the transport of injured persons.

TRAINING.

As regards the method of training the men, first let the chief of each department at a centre be asked to form one of a committee, with one of the officers of the Company as chairman. On behalf of the Company this committee should have power to guarantee the payment of class fees and other class expenses, and to arrange for a timE. of instruction. On the formation of a class the committee should also arrange for the attendance of a medical man to lecture, and the necessary assistants for the instruction in bandaging, &c. The men having gained their first certificate should then be encouraged to form a corps. If possible a room of fair size should be set apart for drill and practice, and the men given at least one hour per week in which to carry this out. If it is only possible, however, to admit this in the man's own time, some reasonable inducement should be offered as recompense-such as a small sum for so many attendances-as is now done in the case of some rail way fire brigades, or by the granting of an extra day or two in connection with the annual holiday.

Upon the formation of the corps, the instructor should at its introductory meeting give a brief address upon the history of the Order of St. John, pointing out the honourable record that has been borne by that organisation through all ages, and urging those present to maintain the honour of their corps by discouraging the use of alcohol and fIlth, and maintaining their bocties in as fit and healthy a condition as possible, in order that they may always meet as friends and brothers, pledged to help each other in sickness and adversity, and also help, where possible, those whose conditions in life is not so good as their own. If the work were carried out on these lines, and in this spirit a better feeling would be engendered between the different departments than exists at the present time.

For the first year's training let the instruction and practises be in the principles of first aid and in first aid pure and simple. In the second year pick out the best men in the corps and instruct them in hygiene and first aid. In the third year again take the best workers and instruct them in the principles of nursing, coupled with first aid. The reason for thi5 enlarged range of instruction will be apparent later on.

When the several corps are in good working order let each railway company form its own ambulance brigade with its own distinctive uniform, assisting those of their employes who join to provide the same.

July 19 0 8 - F IRST

first cost might be regained, in addition to which the extra relief and comfort given to the injured should not be lost sight of.

Central depots should be formed at several of the larger stations on the line, from which well-equipped corps be dispatched at short notice, added to these would be the ordinary stations, signal cabins, workshops, &c., where would be, at least, one trained man with a box of first aid appliances as at present in use, and at each of these sub-stations one person should be held responsible that the boxes were properly supplied with material, and that the contents were kept in a thoroughly asceptic condition.

At the central depot-of which there need be only a few-a mortuary should be located in a good position, easily approached by a ambulance. This obviate the sad, not to say disagreeable, spectacle, which IS sometimes seen at our large stations, of persons who have died suddenly from accident or natural causes, waiting till a town policeman can be found. to remove the body to the nearest police station or publIc mortuary. It would also form a central spot where any case of sudden illness could be treated and minor cases dressed. The building should be comfortable, clean and light, with a few plants if desired. This would all tend to relieve the sad duty of relative:; who attend to identify the bodies.

THE POST MORTEM ROOM would, of course, be reserved exclusively for the doctors, an d should be well ventilated and drained.

The W3.11s of all the rooms should be faced with opaline tIles or other washable materials, with a good supyly of water, both hot and cold, and such other arrangements as may be suggested by the medical staff of the Company.

THE ANTE RooIl[.

This should be fitted with first aid appliances, lavatory basins with hot and cold water, desk, couch, and all such drugs, tabloid or otherwise, as may be requisitioned ?y the medical staff. A telephone should also be fixed 10 the room with a list of the names and telephone numbers of the nearest doctors, the horse ambulance and .the hospital or infirmary. This should be prmted. or legibly wr itten on a card and hung adjacent to the receiver.

The care and custody of this place should be deputed to some of the most reliable men in the Corps.

AID - 3

detachment of the special1y trained men I have alluded to before should be detailed to accompany the train.

On arrival 2t the scene of the accident some of the men would take out the tents and pitch,them in convenient positions near by, having whilst on the journey prepared the beds, stretchers, &c., and got all ready.

One of the tents would be available as a temporary mortuary, to the others the patients would be transferred for examination, those requiring immediate operation being passed to the van, where the operation would be performed and the patient put to bed. When the most serious cases had received attention and the patients put to bed, a card might be attached to each, stating the injuries and treatment, &c., and the train would then proceed to the central depot, where horse ambulances would be in readiness to convey the patients to hospital with the least possible delay and without removal from the stretchers or beds, as these should be interchangable to fit either train or ambulance wagon. The labels which had been attached giving the nature of the injuries in each case, would save a good deal of valuable time, which is at present lost by taking to the hospital a large num ber of unexamined cases. This would probably result in the saving of many lives which are now sacrificed owing to deJay The train would of course make as many journeys as were necessary until all the injured had been removed

It may be thought that when accidents are few no use could be found for these coaches, but when it is considered how large a number of invalids conveyed gu.ards' vans to the large towns for hospital treatment, It Will at once be s -=en that one of these carriages attached to the train with a trained assistant in charge, would give ease and to the patient, for which they, their friends, owners of mills, collieries, or other employers and local authorities would not begrudge paying a sum in excess of the ordinary fare for the journey, added to which it would leave the guard's van free for its n?rmal use.

Again, how useful these trams w?uld prove 10 the event of a serious colliery disaster or aCCident at works or mills, when it could be taken into the siding nearest to the scene of accident.

I n addition to all these advantages, in the case of invasion should this ever occur, how easy to transfer the injured and sick from the scene of action at front to the hospital bases without having to convert carnage, wagons, &c., at the last moment, for most railways having same gauge, the whole of those. in possession of such trams could hel p each other in exceptIOnal cases.

.

(r) Mechanical engineering; engine erecting; carnage ana wagon and electrical workshops.

(2) Permanent way: Workshops, painters, platelayers, slgnal fitters, ballast men, &c.

(3) Passengers and goods: Warehouses, stations, wharves, signal ca bins and outside workers generally.

The first two of these divisions are specially liable to aCCidents, yet.of the breakdown or ballast train gangs, how few, comparatively speaking, are trained ambulance men. This fact alone is largely in favour of the proposed sugges-

In the ranks of such corps there will be found many men of intelligence, and if the brigade is attached to the Royal Army Medical Corps some of these members might be permitted to undergo a fortnight's training in hospital, in the duties of nursing orderlies, &c. Others, again, might be trained as dressers; whilst a few might be instructed in the duties appertaining to the position of compounders; these latter would of course require to possess a knowledge of chemistry, and in order to acquire this they might be assisted to pay for further instruction in order to qualify for these important positions. With regard to this training, it should not be undertaken in the men's time or holidays, which in many instances are the only opportunity for uniting families together.

EQUIPMENT.

Let us now consider the matter of equipment, and here, I know, the question of expense will be urged by many against the suggested improvement, yet much of the

This would then be the centre where all cases happening on the station could be examined prior removal home or bospital, or, in case of death occurnng, placed 10 the mortuary to await &c. This, of course, would not interfere With su b-statlOns.

We now come to what I consider one of the most important improvements in this paper, that is, that at the main centres-prmclpal statIOns-to have specially fitted trains of say, a van and four or five coaches of corridor pattern. The van would be. fitted up as a te.mporary opt:rating theatre, the walls bemg covered With opalme or other material easily .washed, an even wood or cement floor with an operatmg table 10 the centre and appliances neatly arranged; a top light over the table should also be arranged.

The carriages would be occupied witb beds, and a small folding tent should be placed 10 each. .,

Supposing such a train be fitted up, how It It be of service? An accident is reported, say 20 mdes from the centre the doctors can be summoned by telephone, and on arrival can make use of the van and appl iances. As is well !mown, many doctors when called out. to a serious accident take their amputation imrlements With them. A

We should like to have the views of our railway readers on the various proposals suggested by Mr. Croston.

Coming E v ents .

Pm'tiCltfars of jortlt{oming events will be inse?'ted in tltis colUlIIlI free of charge, zj ?'eceived 110t fater than tile I4tlz of eaclt lIIonth.

Elland.-The annual Ambulance and Fire Cometition will be held here on July 25th. -yaluable prIZes and rilver shields will be competed for. Entnes close July 18th. Full particulars of A Tate, hon. sec., 8, J ames-street, Eiland. RavL'llstltorjJe.- The annual con;petiti<;)\1 for the (C Nevin" Silver Challenge Cup and other pnzes will be held on 12th. Hon. Sec., W. Ledgard, Broomer-street, Ravenstholpe Victoria Pad;, London.-The annual and display of tbe " Clarnico" Brigade on July 25 th , 1\1 the grounds of " Clarntco" Works.

GOSPORT. - A large company assembled in the gr?unds of Edinburgh House School, to the annual demonstration and presentatIOn of certificates in connection with the Gosport, Alverstoke and Fartham Centre. Col. E. J. Hunter, V .D., chairman of the centre, presided, and was supported by Lady Parker, who made the presentation, Inspector General H. \. 'Yoods , R.N., M.D., c.B., c.V.0., K.H.P., the enthusiastic. and hardworking honorary secretary, to whom the centre IS so indebted, Mr. W. M. Clay, hon. treasurer, and other ladles and gentlemen interested in the movement.

After the presentation of a handsome to Lady Parker by Master Stuart Cruckshank the chairman opened the proceedings with a few words of welcome to her. ladyship for her presence there that afternoon. Refernng to the growth of the ambulance movement, Dr. Hunter said it behoved every man and woman to go through a course of instruction, and not only obtain the certificate, but see that they did not forget the knowledge once they had acquired it. Colonel Hunter went on to say that in the Territorial Royal Army Medical Corps they wanted men who had acquired that knowledge and who would be able to assist in time of national emergency.

Lady Parker then presented the certificates.

Inspector General Woods in addressing the meeting, referred to the spread of the movement in the self-governing colonies. The growth, too, of the St. John Ambulance Brigade was most encouraging. As a service man he had always recognised that the time would come when both the army and navy would require men who had been trained outside the sel vices, and so it proved in the South African war, to which, they would remember, the Brigade sent out over 2,000 men to assist the Army Medical Staff. It would be impossible to keep up a sufficient staff in either the army or the navy, and they had now eight bearer companies and a strong Military Home Hospitals Reserve for the army and upwards of 800 men enrolled in the Royal Naval Auxiliary Sick Berth Reserve for service with the navy. In their own immediate locality the work still continued to make good progress.

During the afternoon a series of demonstrations were given by certificate holders and by mem bers of the local ambulance and nursing divisions. On behalf of the latter, Lady Superintendent Miss Marsh presented Lady Parker with a handsome bouquet.

SOUTHAMPTON.-H.RH. Princess Louise, Duchess of Argyle, the Royal President of the Ceutre, was accorded a loyal and hearty welc\,Jme em June 27th, on the occasion of her visit to present certificates to the successful students in the classes held last session.

Her Royal Highness, who was accompanied by the Duke of Argyle, and attended by the Hen. Eliot Yorke and Capt Probert, her equcny, ""as n .ce iH.d on

AID.- July, 19 08

arrival at the railway station by the Mayor (Alderman C. J. Sharp) and the Sheriff (Councillor R G. Oakley).

Entering the waiting carriages, the and CIVI C parties, attended by an escort of Rants CarabInIers, drove through the crowded streets to the Hartley Hall, where the presentation took place. "

On arrival the band of the "Mercury training shIp played the National Anthem, the larg e audience meanwhile standing. A pretty interlude here t?ok place when Her Royal Highness was handed a bouquet by a pretty little laddie, Master Rupert Martin, the three year old son of Major Martin, RA.l\1.C.

Alderman E. Rance, J.P. (Chairman of the Committee), who presided, was supported, in addition to Pri?eess Louise and the Duke of Argyle, by a large and dlstmgUlshed company.

In opening the proceedIngs, Chaml:an, I? the course of his address referred to the mterest whIch Princess Louise had taken in the Centre since she accepted the post of President, and on behalf of those present he offered Her Royal Highness a hearty welcome and thanked her for her kind attendance. Referring to the valuable aasistance at all times rendered to classes by the mem bers of the medical staff, Alderman Bance especially expressed their indebtedness to Lieut.-Col. Twiss for the whole-hearted way in which he had worked for the cause since the resuscitation of the Centre.

Her Royal HIghness first handed to Col. Twiss his warrant or appointment as District Chief Superintendent, No.2 District, S.J.A.B., and the recipient having briefly expressed his thanks, Col. A. Swaim, American Consul, on behalf of the Consular representatives of the port, presented Her Royal Highness with a handsome bouquet. The Princess, in returning thanks, expressed her pleasure at receiving it.

Following this came the presentation of 292 c2rtificates to the male and female students. In handing the recipients their awards the Royal Lady had a gracious smile or word of encouragement for each one.

A hearty vote of thanks was proposed to Her Royal Highness on the motion of His Worship the Mayor, seconded by the Hon. Mrs. Eliot Yorke. The proposition was carried amidst enthusiastic applause

In returning thanks for the Princess the Duke of Argyle expressed the pleasure it had given her to be with them that afternoon. She felt it was a very great honour to be their president, and in congratulating the successful students she desired to express the wish that their example might be followed by other students, and that in the future there might be many more to receive them, either at the hands of herself or someone else.

The playing of the National Anthem brought the proceedings in the Hartley Hall to a close. Prior to their departure the Royal party accepted the invitation of the Mayor and Mayoress, and took tea in the Mayor's parlour at the Audit House.

On leaving the Audit House the party, escorted by the mounted police, proceeded to the landing stage where, prior to entering the gig from the Hon. Mrs. Eliot Yorke's yacht, "Garland," H.R.H. cordially shook hands with both the Mayor and the Sheriff, at the same time thanking his Worship for the reception which had been accorded to them.

We must congratulate the Committe of the local centre, and especially its enterprising honorary secretary, Lieut.-Col. Twiss, on the very excellent arrangements which had been made. The whole organisation was perfect and left nothing to be desired.

July, 19 08

-FIRST

General Sir Charles Warren's Shield.

NOTHING has given so great an impetus to ambulance work in the South Wales District as the competition now annually held for the right to hold the handsome shield presented by that gallant soldier Sir Charles Warren. It was a happy idea on the part of Sir Charles to do something to promote ambulance work among ".The Boys" and right loyally they shown t?elr appreclatlOn of his gift, for not only as It acted as a stImulus to ambulance work but each year shows that an increasing interest is taken in the competition by the inhabitants generally.

On Saturday, June 13 th , Mardy, in which town the competition held this year, was en and bunting were dIsplayed everywhere-and It IS to be regretted that the weather did not fall in with the general air

AID.- 5

a mining district, as serious results often followed lack of proper treatment after an accident. Besides being humane, first aid work was also economical, both for employer and employed, inasmuch as its prompt application in mines prevented simple injuries being complicated.

The Marquis Breadalbane, who responded, endorsed all that had been said by Mr. Gray, as to the value of an am bulance training. He had himself, in the days gone by, seen cases dealt with in a way that must have aggravated the injury, but now, thanks to the spread of ambulance instruction, all that was a thing of the past. The St. John Ambulance Asscciation would, however, be of little service were it not for the splenoid support it received from those in charge of its various branches. The Commissioners of the several districts were doing excellent work, and their own worthy Secretary (Mr. Tom Davies) was devoting himself heart and soul to the movement. They also owed

of rejoicing, as it was the competItIOn which it had been proposed to hold in the open had to be held in the more hospitable shelter of the Workmen's Hall .

The Marquis Breadalbane, K.G., who kmdly attended to present tl:e Shield and prizes to the winning and who was the guest of Mrs. Williams, of MaskIn Man.or, was met on arrival by a large number ?f the gentlemen of the district and escorted 10 proceSSIOn, headed by the Ferndale Brass to the Workmen's Hall, where luncheon was served, preSIded over .by. Mr. W. Ronnfeldt (chairman of Locket's Merthyr Colhenes) who was supported by the Marquis Breadalbane and a large number of invited guests.

The loyal toasts having been duly honoured,. the toast of the St. John Ambulance Association was submItted by Mr. F. A. Gray, Chief Inspector of Mines, who to the great value of ambulance training, more espeCIally 10

a debt of gratitude to the members of. the medical profession for their yaluable aid and co-operatIOn.

The Chairman proposed the toast of the St. John Am bulance Brigade, coupled with the name of. Colonel Cureton, V.D., Deputy Commissioner of the Dlstn ct. Colonel Cureton in replying, rem ar ked that the Ambulance Brigade making splendid strides in Wales. The Lord Mayor of Cardiff proposed the toast of the Locket's Company, which was responded to by Mr. Griffin, one of the Directors.

The judges for the CompetItIOn Colonel Curelon, Deputy Commissioner No. 7 D!str!ct; Colonel Lees Hall, Deputy l,ommissioner No Dlstnct; Lloyd, District Chief Surgeon, and ASSIstant-CommissIOner J. W. White. . h h

The Competition was followed throughout WIt l e keenest interest by the large body of spectators. Ten

MARD\, TEAi\[- WINNERS OF SIR CHARLES WARREN' S SHIELD. Chief Surgeon Glanville Morris is seated in the Centre.

6 -FIRST

teams competed in the following order :-Mardy, Great Western Collieries, Tynybedw, Ferndale, Cymmer, Maindy and Eastern (Ton), Treherbert, Abergorchy (Treorchy), and Ystrad Rhondda. It was close upon 6 o'clock when the last team finished, and as the Marquis was compelled to leave shortly after six, no time was lost in announcing the decision.

The result was declared by Mr. Ronnfeldt, and when Mardy were declared the winners with 233 points out of a possible 253, a loud outburst of cheering plainly showed how popular the victory was; equal applause however greeted the announcement of Ferndale as the second team, when it was announced that they were only one point behind the winners. Abergorchy secured third place, and Tynybedw came fourth.

In handing the Shield to Mardy, the Marquis Breadalbane congratulated the district not only upon that large gathering, but also upon the efficiensy of its men. He had seen many competitions, but had never witnessed one so keenly contested or so well organised. He desired to take the opportunity of expressing his thanks to Colonel Cureton, Chief Supts. Richards, and Tom Davies, and Dr. Glanville Morris, all of whom had taken such great interest in am bulance work in the district. He also desired to express his thanks for the opportunity which had been accorded him of attending there that day and witnessing such a fine turn out.

The other prizes were subsequently presented by Mr. Ronnfeldt.

The Mardy Division, which has thus won the Shield for the second time, als? recently won the Glamorgan County ShIeld (second tIme) added to which they also retain for the second time the South Wales and West of England (White Horse) Shield.

the progres.s the Competition the Deputy CommIssioner of the DIstnct (Colonel Cureton) inspected the Rhondda Fach Corps. Chief Supt. Richards was in command of the parade, and the men-to the num ber of 200-100ked smart and well set-up. Owmg to the threatenmg state of the weather the drills had to be but at the the Inspecting Officer expressed hImself as thoroughly satlsfied with what he had seen.

LEYTON AND LEYTONSTONE DIVISION.-By its victory on Saturday, July II th, this division has been successful in securing premier honours in three out of four team comheld in .co nnection with the district for 19 08 VIZ. :-Flrst place 10 the preliminary district competition for t?e "Dewar" Shield, a.nd winners of the "Massey-Mainwaring" Cup and the EffiCIency Cup. The division has thus established a record, for the two latter tr,)phies have never before been won by anyone division in the same year. A team also won the Massey-Mainwaring Cup last year" and they were. the holders of Efficiency Cup in the) ear 1906. It IS. worthy of mentIOn that this was the first on whIch the division had entered for the Dewar ShIeld. The following formed the team :-Ptes. G. Fuller, H. Bate, A. S. Barker and J. B. Barkam, under 1st Offi.cer J ?hn T. Olley. The same team won the MasseyMamwanng Cup. For the Efficency Cup competition the team was c?mposed as follows :-Sergt. A. R. Burland Corpl. S. Wmepress, Ptes. A. L. Reynolds F. W C c' Fuller, H. Bate, H. J. Rayment H S Da'vI's C' D Ox d A G " ,. a wson an " Barker, under 1St Officer John T. Olley.

No. I District (Metropolitan Corps.)

The annual insp ection of the Metropolitan Corps was held i!1 Hyde Park on July 4th and passed off in a highly successful manner.

The corps mustered on the Horse Guards Parade, some 850 strong, including roo nursing sisters, and marched via Constitution Hill to the park, proceeding to the Guards Parac e Ground, "hich had been specially reserved for the occasion. Punctually at 6 p. m. Admiral Sir Edmund R. Freemantle, G.c.B., the inspecting officer arrived, and was received by the Chief Commissioner, Inspector General Belgrave Ninnis, M.D., R.N., the Deputy Commissioner, Col. Lees Hall, late R.A.M.C, Asst.-Commissioner F. D. Mackenzie, and District Chief Surgeon James Cantlie.

The corps, which was under the command of Asst.Commissioner W. H. Morgan, at once gave a general salute, and the inspecting officer then proceeded to inspect the ranks, passing up and down the lines and noting with evident interest various badges worn by many 0[' the men, signifying their enrolment in either the Royal Naval Auxiliary Sick Berth or Home Hospital Reserves.

At the inspection the corps was formed into column of companies and marched past the saluting point.

In addressing the men at the conclusion of the ceremony the inspecting officer expressed his gratification at the smart appearance of the corps and the officers on the excellent display he had witnessed. He had been surprised to learn how large an organisation the Brigade had become, and recognising the invaluable work they were doing, would lose no opportunity that might present itself in furthering the interests of the cause. He also paid a high tribute to the nursing sisters, whose services he knew by experience were of the utmost value to the sick and injured. In conclusion, he said that if his own sailors could come off their ships and give as good an exhibition as he had witnessed that day he would have no cause to feel dissatisfied.

The arrangements were carried out in a highly satisfactory manner by Asst.-Commissioner Morgan, assisted by Staff Officers Pontin, Piers and ,Vinny. Special thanks are due to the police under Supt. Wells, for the excellent arrangements made for keeping the parade ground.

The annual Church parade of this corps was helt! on Sunday, June 28th, about 500 of all ranks being present.

The corps, under the command of Asst.-Commissioner W. H. Morgan, paraded in Finsbury Circus and marched to St. Paul's Cathedral, where they were met by the Deputy-Commissioner of the District, Col. Lees Hall and District Chief Surgeon, James Cantlie. After' the service the corps returned to Finsbury Circus. An efficient band accompanied the column and played some spirited selections.

July, J 908 . -FIRST No. 2 District.

HASTINGS.-A desire has long been expressed by the members of this division to recognise in some small way the splendid voluntary work of Hon. Surgeon and Supt. Loske, and at a pleasant little social meeting held at the Tower Road Schools, the worthy doctor was presented, on the part of the members, with a gold-mounted umbrella.

There was a gathering of about fifty of the members and friends present, and on his arrival the guest of the evening was with hearty applause.

In a few words of apology for being late, Mr. Locke :-ererred to the progress the division was making, and their need of a new home. They must get fresh quarters, for they were being gradually crowded out of the room at the Brassey Institute by a lot of rubbish-stuffed birds which were moulting, heads which were losing hair, in fact all sorts of queer objects were filling up the space.

In making the presentation, Mr. Manley, the hon. secretary, referred in E:ulogistic terms to Mr. Locke's work. Thanks to his devotion and interest, the division was going along by leaps and bounds. He asked his acceptance of that little present as a slight token of th eir esteem and appreciation.

In acknowledging the gift, Hon. Surgeon Locke expressed the terror he should feel at carrying it about with him, as he was a genius at leavmg such things in tramcars and other similar places. The work had been to him a ISreat pleasure, and it was gratifying to him to know that its value was now more fully realised, inasmuch as they were now attached to the Territorial Army as part of the Military Home Hospital Reserve.

An excellent musical programme was rendered by several talented mem bers and their friends.

No. 5 District.

MANSFrELD.-The annual tea and presentation of certificates and medallions to successful pupils of the ambulance class, held under the auspices of this division, took place on the lawn at Hon. Surgeon Wordsworth's residence, on Ju Jy 4th.

The presentation was kindly undertaken by his Worship the (Councillor J. D. Wallis, J.P.), who, in the course of a few kind words, expressed his pleasure at being present, and how gratified be was at the interest displayed in ambulance work. Twenty-three first aid certificates, five re-examination vouchers, ten medallions, and two labels were presented.

On behalf of the class a very pleasing duty was next undertaken by the Mayor, who requested Hon. Surgeon Wordsworth's acceptance of a Thermes Flask. In expressing his pleasure at having been asked to undertake this duty, his worship said he felt sure he was only voicing the feelings of the class, when he assured the doctor that the small gift which he was pleased to present, was only a very small token of the appreciation in which he was held by his class.

The doctor, on rising to respond, received quite an ovation. After thanking the class for their kind present, he went on to refer to the great interest which he had always taken in the work, and expressed his pleasure that so many had joined the division. Turning to the Mayor, Dr. Wordsworth informed his 'Worship that they were somewhat handicapped, as they wanted on additional stretcher.

The hint was promptly taken, the Mayor and Alderman Singleton very generously offering to one at their joint expense. Both gentlemen were heartily both for their gift and for their presence there that even mg.

AI D.-

Subsequently about seventy members and friends sat down to tea. The Mansfield Excelsior Prize Band, under the conductorship of Mr. F. Suttle, rendered a choice selection of music during the proceedings.

No. 7 District.

IRONBRIDGE.-By the kind invitation of Lord Forester, the members of this corps, under Chief Supt. A. W. Bartlam, gave an ambulance demonstration at Willey Park on Saturday, July 6th. The proceedings were witnessed by a large and distinguished home party, among whom were Lord and Lady Forester, Colonel Sir Herbert and Lady Perrott and General Sir Charles Warren. An interesting programme of work had been arranged and was carried out by the members. Subsequently the work was inspected by Colonel Sir Herbert C. Perrott, c.B., who was accompanied by Asst.-Commissioner J. W. White and Hon. Surgeon N. Fox-Edwards.

At the conclusion of the proceedings the members were entertained with an excellent tea kindly provided by Lord Forester.

Later on in the evening Nursing Certificates were presented by Lady Forester to those members of the Madeley Nursing Division who were successful in the recent examination held in connection with a class promoted by that division.

In the course of a brief address to the mem bers of the corps, Sir Herbert Perrott said he had a very pleasant duty to perform that evening. He had that day received a notification that His Majesty the King, who was the Sovereign Head and Patron of the Order of St. John, had graciously sanctioned the election of Mrs. M. H. White, Lady Superintendent, Ironbridge Nursing Division, as an Honorary Serving Sister of the Order, in recognition of her long and valuable services. Sir Herbert then gave some interesting details in connection with the inception and development of the ambulance department of the Order, a subject upon which, from his long connection with it, few members, if are more able to speak. Referring to the work which he had witnessed that afternoon, Sir Herbert expressed himself as highly gratified at the smart and expeditious manner in which the wurk, both first aid and nursing, had been gune through. He was also extremely pleased at the smart manner in which the corps had turned out. In conclusion, Sir Herbert urged his hearers to continue to take an active interest in ambulance work and to encourage others to come forward and help the movement which they all had so very much at hear.t.

General Sir Charles Warren also saId a few words, m which he referred to the invalvable services renJered to the by the members of the St.) ohn Ambu)ance in volunteering for hospital duty In South Afnca durmg the Boer war and also at the present time in enrolling as members either the Royal Na\'a l Reserve or the Military Home Hospitals Reserve. In c?ncluding.' he complimented all ranks on the very fine dlsplay \vhIch they had given that afternoon.

Asst.-Commissioner J. W. Whlte thanked both Slr Herbert Perrott and Sir Charles Warren for their kindly references to the services rendered by the Brigade and for the interest they had shown in the proceediugs that day. He also desired on behalf of the lronbrid ge Corps to thank Lady Forester for presenting the certificates, and .Lo.rd Forester for his kind invitation and the generous hospltahty shown that day to the corps His Lordship on responding was heartily cheered by all ranks.

The J ackfield Prize was In and played a selection of music dUring the proceedmgs.

Brevities.

VERY general regret will be at the illness of Lord Egerton of Tatton, which has necessitated his lordship's resignation of the post of Chancellor of the Order or St. John. Lord Egerton of Tatton has always taken a warm and active interest in the various departments of the Order, and his valued co-operation will be greatly missed.

* **

No more popular selection could have been made in the appointment of a successor. Viscount Knutsford, during the time that he was Director of the Ambulance won the love and esteem of all with whom he came in contact. His never-failing courtesy, his ready tact, and, above all, his kindliness of heart, did much to smooth away difficulties and differences of upinion at a period in the history of the St. John Ambulance Brigade when a leader possesing these quali fications was most essential.

* * *

WITH reference to the sad circumstances under which the late Mr. Cave-Browne-Cave, an Oxford undergraduate, lost his life by drowning near Modley Weir, the Oxford Chro?Zlde of July loth, says: Sir Herbert C. Perrott, of the St. John Am bulance Association, has written calling attention to the sad circumstances surrounding the case. The watermen who got him out of the river did all tbey possibly could to help the doctor to restore animation; but the doctor did not arrive until twenty minutes after the body had been taken out of the water, and the water men, with all the willingness in the world, did not know what to do without the doctor's instructions. Sir Herbert says that the whole case "bears striking testimony as to the fatal results which often ensue from the want of a little simple knowledge, and proves the strange aversion that those ,,,,ho make their living on or near the water have to acquire information as to the means of restoring the apparently drowned." He regrets that the St. John Am bulance Association has no longer an efficient centre in Oxford, "though there is a small local unit of the St. John Ambulance Brigade;" and he thinks it specially to be deplored "that the dons and other authorities at Oxford University-and, unfortunately, the same thing may be said of Cambridge University-offer no personal support and encouragement to the members of the various colleges for the acquisition of information which has been repeatedly proved to demonstration to have saved life and to have alleviated untold suffering.

IT is perhaps hardly fair, says the Oxfo rd Chronicle, to hold the University authorities responsible for the want of information on the part of Tham es watermen but clearly knowledge about first aid to the injured is much less diffused in Oxford than it ought to be. *

IN the course of an unusually interesting account of

AID. - July, 19 08 .

the Frankfort Congress, our contemporary, Engineering, says :-Congresses are frequently the scenes of surprises, and it was certainly something of a surprise to find the Fire Servvice section the scene of an animated debate on the difficulties of life-saving at fires, when a discussion on first aid and ambulance work was expected. As it happened, some forty members connected wi th the fire service, chiefly the presidents of the different associations that had been invited to attend, were present, and, arising out of a paper on some life-saving work in Berlin, the grievance was very generally aired that although building regulations might do much in the way of structural exits, littl.e or nothing was done to facilitate the work of the fire brigade when such structural exits failed; and that with the increasing height of buildings, the narrow dimensions of courtyards, areas, &c., life-saving in certain circumstances had become a practical impossibility for the fire brigade. The discussion on this su bject was continued for two days, and led to the forming of a sub-committee for framing suitable resolutions dealing with the subject. There can be no doubt at all that, although fire appliances are improving in efficiency, and indeed, in many instances, are nearing perfection, the difficulties to be contended with in certain classes of buildings have so increased during the last decade that fire service work under certain conditions is becoming very onerous, and this unexpected ventilation of a grievance certainly claims attention.

Tlze Broad Arrow of July 11th sa)s :-" The Army Council has notified the Territorial county associations that consideration has been given to the possibility of adopting a system whereby the Territorial Medical Service and the am bulance department of the Order of St. John of J erusalem in England may be brought into relation with one another, so that, while each organisation shall maintain its own individuality, mutual aid and support may be rendered by one to the other. Many thousands of persons are annually trained by the organisations controlled by the Order but while a large num ber of these pass into the St. John Am bulance Brigade, many others, after instruction, sever their connection with the organisation. On the other hand, soldiers of the Territorial Medical Service, on completion of their time, will not under existing conditions have opportunities of passing into any of the St. John organisatIOns, in which the conditions of service and the liabilities are less stringent than in the Territorial Force, and in which they might continue to place at the disposal of the country the special training and knowledge acquired in the military service. After conference with a special committee of the Order of St. John, proposals have been submitted to th e county associations by which it is believed that both the Territorial Medical Service and the St. John Ambulance Brigade may be str e ngthened."

* **

OUR readers will remember that for a lon g time past

July, 19 08 -FIRST

we have argued that it should be possi ble for the authorities at the Gate and the War Office authorities to arrive at some sort of working agreement. We are gratified to know that something is being done in the matter. We hope, however, that the agreement will be based on generous lines towards the Brigade. To our mind it forms a splendid reserve for the medical branch of the Territorial Army, and should be treated as such. We should say that Mr. Haldane would be a happy man if he coulo only look round the country and see organisations run on similar lines-purely voluntary and finding their own kit and equipment-available as reserves for the other branches of his new force.

The First International First Aid and Life Saving Congress.

HEARTY congratulations to the promoters and members of the several organising committees on the success, the very marked success, which attended this the first Internatio[Jal Congress devoted to one of the most important questions affecting this and future generations.

Re::tlising as we do the importance of the various subjects dealt with at the Congress, we propose to give in future issues a translation of the whole or part of some of

nationalities, has hitherto done so much to keep apart those nations whose only rivalry should be in the paths of peace, with a view to securing premier honours in the arts and and organisations which have as their objecthe of human suffering and the minimising of rISk to human hfe. Once this great ideal is realised, we

the papers read at the Congress, and, where possible, a brief synopsis of the discussion which ensued thereon. We have been promised every assistance on the part of the British members of the committee, and our thanks are especially due to Mr. Sam Osborn and Mr. Albert Oppenheimer for the kind and valued aid they have already rendered to us. Like ourselves, th ese gtntlemen realise the importance of this subject now that it has an international character, and with us they are desIrous. of promoting and fostering that. spirit. of C7l comaradie whIch has been awakened and whIch will tend to break down racial prejudicies, discourage those symptoms of ill will which, engineered by a certain section of the Press of all

believe that the nations will mor <; readily adopt the principles of arbitration in International questions, and if the advocates of the peace party could only be prevailed upon to give the same active support to a project, which, has for its aim such real and substantial benefits to humanity, instead of pursuing such wild and improbable projects as total or even partial disarmament, we believe they would advance the cause they haVE; at heart to a much

rrreater dearee than they now do, by the holding of Peace ::, ::, h' h Conrerences, the results or which a re, or have been It erto, of a more or less neg ative cha ract er.

To return to the subject of the Frankfort Congress. Regret has been expressed in some circles that the of delegates from this country was not but must be remembered that the place of meetmg entalled a

SIR JOHN FURLEY, c.u.

SlR HENRY CUNN INGH Al\I .

SIR FRANCIS OPPENHEIl\lER.

-FIRST

long journey, and in addition to this, th e inestimable advantages which must assuredly result from such an international gathering are but partially realised by the g reat mass of ambulance workers in this country. However, the fact that Great Britain was represented by such prom in ent worker.:; in the cause as Sir John Furley, one of the pioneers of the movem ent, and one to whom this country is tmder a

A I D.- July, 19 08

of some of the more usual terms used in first aid, and this must have proved of immense value to the d e legates to whom it was presented. We congratulate these gentlemen on the result of their labours, which we are sure must have been appreciated by their colleagues, and we are gratified to earn that H.M. the Queen of Spain-an English Princess, who, like the rest of our royal family, takes a keen inter-

July, 19 08 -FIRST

"First Aid in Railway Accidents," by Chief Dr. P. Redard, Par is.

"First Aid by Samaritans in Accidents on the Russian Railroads," by Dr. A. T. Tscherbend, Moscow.

"The First Aid and Life Saving of the Vienna Fire Brigade," by Dr. Emil Scwarz, Vienna.

"Transportation of the Sick under Medical Supervision," by Dr. Paul Streffer, Leipsic.

"Sanitary Detachment in the Fire Department of Russia," by Colonel Edward von Lundt, St. Petersburgh.

"The Organisation of the Life Saving Columns of Volunteer Fire Brigades," by Chief Adjutant A. Krivoschejew, St. Petersburgh.

"First Aid in London," by Sam Osborn, F.R.C.S., Windsor.

" Rules for Rendering First Aid in Cases of Railway Accidents in Holland," by Dr. D. Romeyn, Venlo.

"First Aid and Life Saving in Mines," by Albert M. Oppenheimer, London.

Although the pri mary object of the Congress was the discussion and ventilation of all that appertains to the safeguarding of human life the social side was not neglected,

AI D.- II

Medical Corps Drill of the United Ger= man Red Cross Medical Corps, Frankfort= on =Main.

WE are indebted to Mr. Osborn, F.R.C.S., for the illustrative plan and particulars of this drill.

Explanations :- 1. Rampart. 2. Ditch. 3. Building blown up (scene of explosion). 4· Field Hospital. 5. Refreshment tent. 6. Waggons (stopping place). 7. Auxiliary train. 8. Auxiliary trams.

Idea of the drill (drill plan).-A serious explosion has taken place during the afternoon in a chemical works (assumption), situated on the Griesheimer drill grnund. According to the vague information received by the District of the Voluntary Nursing Department, Medical CouncIllor Dr. Robb, a considerable number of people have been mortally, or more or less seriously, injured. ',fhe District Inspector orders the medical corps at hiS disposal to the scene of the accident.

great and lasting obligation, Sir H. Cunningham , who represented the Home Office, Major Macpherson, who represented the Army Medical Department, Co l. Barnes, of the St. Andrew's Ambulance Association, Mr. Sam Osborn, who for so many years has rendered such yeoman service to the Metropolitan Corps of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, Sir Francis Oppenheimer, who as British Consul General represented the Foreign Office, and his brother, Mr. Albert Oppenheimer, the latter as Joint Secretary to the British Committee, and who, in conjunction

MR. SAM OSBOl'<N, F.R.C.S. est in ambulance work-has graciously allowed the authors to d edicate the book to her.

Among the various papers read, the following were of more than passing interest, and we shall hope to deal with some of them more fully later on :-

" The Training of Life-Saving Crews in Coal Mines in the Kingdom :of Saxony," by Burgomaster Herold, Frieberg, " First Aid in Accidents," by J osepb Corman, Brussels.

"Organisation of the Means of Life Saving in Industrial Centres,'.' by S ur geon-Major Fisher, Chentz.

PLAN OF DRILL GROUND, FRANKFORT.

and the delegates were entertained by the Municipality and others.

The Exhibition of life-saving appliances, &c., was of a singularl y interesting character and well repaid the promoters the time and labour that it must have entailed in its arrangement. It was divided into two sections and contained specimens of life-saving appliances for use on both land and sea, and it is gratifying to know that not the least interesting exhibits were those that hailed from our own country; among these might be mentioned those of 1\1r.

W. E. Garforth

The British delegates are specially indebted to Sir Francis Oppenheimer, whose guests they were at the British Consulate, and who never spared himself in his efforts to make their visit a pleasurable one.

It will be especially gratifying to English first aiders to know that Sir John Furley, our own veteran ambulance chief, met with a most enthusiastic reception at the Congress

It is found that 35 to 40 workmen have been injured, some of whom are still lying under the debris of a building destroyed by the explosion. Further explosions, particularly of stores of benzine, are to be feared, and the works are already cleared. To meet this position of things the following measures are taken :-

with Mr. Osborn, did so much to make th e visit of the British delegates a success, will serve to show that we were represented by able advoca t es

. The two latter gentleman also compiled a very handy httle book- a vocallUlary in English, F r e nch a nd German

"The First Aid-a Work of the Physician," by Dr. Korman, Leipsic.

" Life Saving Apparatus for Self-Saving at Conflagrations before the arrival of the Fire Bri gad e," by Franz Scherer, Berlin.

The first detachments of the Red Cross Medical Volunteers extricate the wounded from the ruins of the wrecked building (see Sketch NO.3) and carry them-seeing that it is not feasible, in view of the possibility of further explosions, to apply bandages within the works buildings-to the adjoining Griesheimer drill ground, where, at a considerable distance from the scene of the accident (assumed), there is a bandaging tent (Sketch NO.4). After bandages have been applied, the wounded are attended to by ladies of the National Women's League in the refreshment tent (Sketch NO.5). Meanwhile, a number of waggons have been prepared and have mustered on the waggon halting place (Sketch No.6), whence the wounded driven to the auxiliary train (Sketch NO.7) and the aUXIliary trams (Sketch No.8) for conveyance by these into the Frankfort Hospitals.

The smart and expeditious way in which the drill was gone through evoked hearty applause.

COL. BARNES.

MAJOR MACPHERSON.

MR. A. M. OPPENHEI MER

When corresponding with Advertisers please mention" First Aid."

The Order of the Hospital of st. John of Jerusalem in England.

ON June 24th, St. John Baptist Day, the anniversary Commemoration Services and the annual General Assembly in connection with this ancient Order of Chivalry were held in the Priory Church and the Grand Hall at St. John's Gate respectively.

By request of some of the mem bers of the Order, Holy Communion was celebrated in the Chapel of St. John the Almoner, within the crypt, at 10. J 5 a.m., the celebrant being the Rector of St. John's, the Rev. T. W. Wood. At the annual service, which was attended by a large number of the mem bers of the Order, the prayers were read by the Rector. The first lesson was read by the Rev. T. C. Elsdon, Vicar of St. Phillip's, Clerkenwell, the second by the Rev. Canon Shepherd, Sub-Dean of the Chapels Royal. The Rev. R. Duckworth, Canon of Westminster, the Rev. Paul Wyatt, Chaplain of the Savoy Chapel, and the Rev. ] oscelyn Beck, late Rector of Rotherhithe, were also present. The Rt. Rev. the Lord Bishop of Gibraltar, who is Sub-Prelate of the Order, preached, and at the conclusion of the service an offertory was made on behalf of the charitable objects of the Order.

Subsequently the members inspected the several improvements which have been made in the recently restored ancient priory crypt, following which the annual general assembly was held. In the unavoidable absence of the Chancellor, Lord Egerton of Tatton, the meeting was pTesided over by Sir John Furley, c.B. (Honorary Baliff). Various interesting reports showing the progress of the various departments and charitable organisations of the Order were submitted, including those relating to the Opthalmic Hospital maintained by the Order in Jerusalem. Especially gratifying were the reports showing the progress and development of the work of the St. John Ambulance Brigade both at home and abroad. The movement has been warmly taken up in Australia, India, New Zealand and South Africa. The Royal Naval Sick Berth Auxiliary Reserve, the Brigade Bearer Companies and the Military Home Hospitals Reserve were also reported upon, in addition to which it was stated that arrangements were now in progress with the War Office by which it was hoped to facilitate the recruiting for the Medical Companies of the new Territorial Force from amongst the certificated pupils of the St. John Ambulance Association. Eulogistic testimony was borne by both military and naval medical authorities to the efficiency and zeal displayed by the mem hers of the Am bulance Brigade, and it was stated that warm appreciation of the services of the Ambulance of the Order had been expressed both by the War Office and the Admiralty.

In the course of the proceedings Sir John Furley gave an interesting acc'Junt of the meetings held in connection with the First Aid and Life Saving Congress recently held at Frankfort-on-Maine, and of which he was one of the ioreign Honorary Presidents.

His Majesty the King, Sovereign Head and Patron of the Order has sanctioned the recommendation of the Prince of Grand Prior, for the nomination of Viscount Knutsford as Chancellor, in succession to Earl Egerton of Tatton, who has resigned on account of illhealth.

On Friday, July loth, His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, Grand Prior, presented life saving awards and

AI D.- July, 19 08

long service medals awarded by the Chapter and Council of the Order, the former in recognition of acts of gallantry in saving life on land, and the latter for lon g and meritorious service in connection with the ambulance department of the Order.

Mustering at St. John's Gate at an early hour, the recipients drove in brakes to Marlborough House, where they were presented to His Royal Highness. The Secretary General of the Order (Sir Herbert Jekyll) announced the names of the several recipients, and in the case of those who received the life saving award a brief description of the act of gallantry which had tamed for them the coveted distinction was read by the Chancellor of the Order.

The recipients, who came frOtH all parts of the country, were presented in the following order :-The first two men to be decorated were Alfred Barton Stevens, a storekeeper, and Richard Grantham, a labourer. They had both dis· played much bravery in endeavouring to rescue a man named Bowler, who was overpowered by foul air in a sewer at Burnham in May of last year, Grantham being also overcome by the gas, Stevens making four attempts to rescue him beff)fe he was successful. Bowler was brought to the surface dead. Stevens received a silver medal and Grantham a bronze medal.

Archibald Mitchell Bomphrey, a shipyard manager, George Williamson, an engineer-fitter charge-hand, and William Foley, a foreman-labourer, were each decorated with a silver medal for their gallant conduct in the rescue of a lad from the boiler-room of a steam launch at Southampton in the midst of the flame and smoke which followed an explosion.

Private Arther William Lang, of the Exeter· Division of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, was awarded a bronze medal for the rescue of a boy who had fallen on the rails at Queen-street Station, Exeter, in front of an express train, alld James Bridge, a porter, received a similar decoration for the attempted rescue of a fellow-porter at Birscough J unction Station (Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway) Bridge only escaping death hImself by a hair's breadth.

A lad named William Henry Beadle, of Woolwich, was given a certificate of honour for dragging a child from beneath the hoofs of a hOL,e attached to a butcher's cart in Beresford-square, 'V"oolwich. James Newsham, a carter, was similarly honoured for stopping a runaway horse attached to a fire-engine which had galloped into a crowd, and had already killed two people. A parcels porter named Frederick Arthur Gibson a certificate for saving the life of a man in front of an express train at Ashford, Kent, and for a similar action at Battersea Park Station, a London, Brighton and South Coast Guard named James Wilson, also received a certificate.

Stewart Rowley, a porter on the Metropolitan Railway, for saving a man at Bishopsgate-street Station who had fallen between the electrified rails, received a certificate. David Meyrick, a Rhondda Valley miner, for bravery during an explosion in the Dinas Mine Colliery, received a certificate, and Charles Painter, Frank Smith, Hugh Patrick Logue, and George Humphrey, who displayed gallantry in the attempted rescue of a man from a sewer shaft at tbe Willesden District Council Sewage Farm, were each given certi ficates.

The service medal awarded for conspicuous services to the Order and its departments was presented to the following members of the St. John Ambulance Brigade:Assistant -Commis.3ioner Lawrence Whittaker, No. 4 District; District Supt. Secretary W. J. Phillips, No. 2 District; District Supt. Secretary W. J. H. Pontin, No. District ; Chief Surgeon J. B. Wilkinson, (Oldham), Chief

July, I9 08

-FIRST

Supt. T. E. Foort (Oxford), Hon. Surgeon T. Fort (Oldham), Supt. Secretary H. Wilkinson (Northampton), Supt. of Stores W. H. Bullock (Accrington), Supt. Treasurer J. H. Wingate, (Hull), Supt. E. Scott (Colne), Supt. J. J. Olley, No 4 (Ley ton and Leytonstone) Division, Metropolitan Corps; Supt. A. O. Groome (Higham Ferrers), Supt. J. O. Vaughan (Hull), Lady Supt. Mrs. M. E. Church - Brasier (Margate and Westgate-on -Sea Nursing Division), Lady Supt. Mrs. R. Krause (Central Nursing Division, Hull Corps), Lady Supt. Mrs. A. C. Lines, NO.2 (St. John's Gate) Nursing Division; Lady Supt. Miss L. J. Law, No. IO (Balham and Streatham Nursing Division); First Nursing Officer and Lady Secretary Mrs. P. W. Hinds (Ramsgate Nursing Division, Ramsgate Corps), First Nursing Officer Mrs. L. Barnes, No. 2 (St. John's Gate) Nursing Division; First-class Sergt. G. Rawcliffe (Accrington), First-class Sergt. W. Norris ton), First-class Sergt. J. Whitehurst (Accrington), Sergt. J. W. Francis (Wellingborough), Sergt. A. Burland, NO.4 (Ley ton and Leytonstone) Divi sion, Metropolitan Corps; Sergt. J. Woods (Preston), Sergt. ]. Bundy, No. 22 (Hospital Saturday Fund) Division; Pte. F J. Weth (Rochdale), Pte. Wilkinson (Read), Pte. T. Gillet (Hull Corps), Pte. B. Green (Ley ton and Leytonstone), Pte. J. Curtis (Bacup), Nursing Sister P. J. Long (Ramsgate), Nursing Sisters S. Richards, A. Flood and A. Brown, of No. 2 (St. John's Gate) Nursing Division. The recipients were afterwards entertamed at luncheon at the First Avenue Hotel, the chair being taken by Assistant Commissioner William H. Morgan (No. District).

Royal Visit to Leeds.

THE Leeds Corps is to be congratulated on the excellent arrangements which were made and carried out under the personal supervision of Chief Surgeon A. Ellison, Yr. R.C.S., and Supt. Secretary Eddison, for dealing \vith casualties likely to occur along the line of route, on the occasion of visit of their Majesties on July 7th, 1908, to open the new buildings in connection with the Leeds University. There were about 500 officers and m e n an duty, drawn from the following Corps and Divisions \vithin the District :- Leeds, Dewsbury District, Brighouse, Shipley and District, Rotherham, Castleford, Barnoldswick, Huddersfi e ld, Keighley, Bradford, Morley and Ardsley, Sheffield, Rockenham, Farnley, Birstall, Ossett, Hasland, llkes\on, Denaby, Birchwood, and Ilkley. Wagons were loaned by Batley, Morley, Ossett, and Farnley. Each Corps and Division was called upon to pay its own out of pocket expenses for railwa) fares, &c., save that one meal was provided for those on duty by the Corporation of Leeds.

The mem bers first mustered at the headquarters, and were then marched to the various stations, of which there were 32 along the line of route. Th ese carefully planned in order to ensure the work bell1g carned out as expeditiously as possible. Each station was in telephonic communication with headquartel s throughout the day, and the staff at several had to be frequently increased.

In Cowper-stre e t a marquee was erected, and t.his served as a temporary hospital in which to treat cas.es whIch could not for the moment be transferred to the IOfirmary or other institutions. It was perhaps fortunate that the weather was not too hot or the casuJ.lties might have been larger, as it was 758 cases received attention during the day. By far the most serious of these occurred at Harewood, where a char-a.-banc from Harrogate was overturned, result-

Al D.-

ing in the following: Injury to spine and internal fractur e d radius, fractured radius and ulna fractured ribs, sprained ankle, injury to thigh, and severa't patients more or less bruised and cut.

Other serious cases treated during the day were a girl with a fractured forearm, man with fractured jaw and severe bruises to face and arms. In this latter case, the detachment in charge of the case remained with the patient all night, when they left him in of h1S friends.

The several stations in the centre of the city were kept very busy from an early hour. At 10 a. m. application was received at headquarters for additional assistance. Emergency sections having been arranged one of these was promptly dispatched.

On his arrival at headquarters, the Deputy-Commissioner of the District (Mr. C. S. Wardell) made a very careful inspection of the arrangements there, and afterwards visited the various stations along the line of route, being acsompaaied by District Chief Supt. H. C. Else, District Superintendent Secretary P. Ratcliff, and Chief Surgeon A. Ellison. The route being a long one this was no easy task, everything was found to be working satisfactory, and upon his return the Deputy Commissioner expressed his entire satisfaction with the very excellent arrangements made by Chief Surgeon A. Ellison and Supt. Secretary A. Eddison.

After the passing of the royal procession the various detachments remained at their posts for a short time, and then proceeded to report themsel ves at headquarters. Here a capital meat tea had been provided, and was much appreciated. Alter tea a few short speeches were made. Referring to the excellent arrangements which had been made, Hon. Surgeon Bigg said, " During the last few days I have been going round with Surgeon Ellison as a spectator, and I was not a little surprised to see how much work this royal visit entailed. All the arrangements which had been madE=! for the comfort of the staff on duty were due to Dr. Ellison's endeavours. I have much pleasure in proposing a vote of thanks to Chief Surgeon Ellison and Supt. Secretary Eddison."

At this point Chief Surgeon Ellison interposed, and said that Supt. Secretary Eddison had done far more work in connection with the visit of their Majesties than he had. He desired to give credit where credit was due.

On the proposition of the Chief Surgeon, hearty cheers were given for Supt. Secretary Eddison, at the conclusion of which the several corps and divisions paraded outside the headquarters, and headed by the bugle band of the Leeds Corps marched to the centre of the city, where they were dismissed.

On the way they were loudly cheered by the thousands of spectators who lined the route, and there is no doubt that the work done will be the mearlS of placing the St. John Ambulance Brigade in Leeds on a much more satisfactory basis for its value will not soon be forgotten.

Thanks' are specially due to Messrs. Reynolds and Branson, who kindly provided, free of cost, a large q uantity of first aid material for each station.

THE FIRE BRIGADES UNION CAMP,-

The date at which we go to press precludes our givir.g a detailed account of the Annual Camp, which is being held this year at Scarborough. Just as we go to press, we have received a wire intimating that the NarlOnal Manual Challenge Shield has been won by the Wanstead Fire Brigade. Hearty congratulati?ns to Chief Officer Horatio Miller, and hIS promlSll1g purJis.

Ra ilwaymen's Ambulance and Fire Demonstration.

AT the Lonahedge Works, Battersea, on Saturday afternoon, June °27th (by kind permission of Mr. Harry S. Wainwright, J.p., M.I.C.E.), the second ambulance and fire demonstration took place under the most favourable circumstances, in the presence of a large and distinguished audience, which included Miss Maud Leigh Pemberton, the Countess of Lindsey, Mr. W. R. Edwards (St. John Ambulance Association), 1\1r. W. H. Morgan (Asst.-Commissioner No. I District), Lieut.-Colonel Fox (Chief Officer London Salvage Corps), Colonel Lees Hall, Dr. Watts (Ton bridge), Dr. Southey (Maidstone), Dr. R. D. Muir (New Cross), Mr. J. W. Barber, M.I.M.E., and Mr. Ernest A. Richards (Centre Secretary).

The proceedings, which were presided over by Mr. E. C. Cox, commenced with an inspection of the Battersea loco ambulance van, equipment, and staff, followed by a demonstration of emergency ambulance work, which was very minutely supervised by Dr. Watts, Dr. Southey and Edwards, whilst the various teams carried through their work with extreme smartness, and were rewarded with much applause. The second part consisted of an inspection of the Longhedge Work Fire Brigade and appliances by Lieut.-Colonel Fox, followed by a display of fire drill, the whole terminating with manual engine drill.

Colonel Lees Hall warmly complimented the ambulance men on the display given, and said that if ever it was his misfortune to be in a railway accident he hoped it would be on the South Eastern and Chatham Railway, for he was sure he would get skilled treatment there. Dr. Watts also expressed himself as being pleased with all he had seen.

Lieut.-Col. Fox said that the fire brigade had given an admirable display considering the equipment at their disposal.

Throughout, the demonstration was watched with intense interest.

The S.E. and c.R. Military Band enlivened the proceedings, and altogether a most profitable afternoon was spent.

The " Perfection" Chemical Fire Distinguishers.

THERE are at the present time many kinds of "first aid» fire appliances on the market, but we know of none which to our mind so satisfactorily answers all requirements as does the "Perfection." It is well made and simple in and any pers.on of either sex can at once get to work 111 case of fire WIth perfect safety, and "vith the utmost certainty of minimising if not effectually quelling the outbreak We have tested this machine and can vouch for the accuracy of all that is claimed for it. Private fire brigades who are on the look out for a "first aid" machine cannot do better than try the" Perfection." The manufacturers, Messrs. F. Walker & Co., 27 and 28, King London,. will :eadily send one on approbatton 111 order that 111tendmg purchasers may test its capabilities No institution, factory, or other large bUlldmg should be WIthout adequate fire protection, and to obtain that at a minimum of cost get the " Perfection."

AI D.- July, 19 0 8

Ambulance Work at the Royal S how.

THE county of Northumberland has action of the Council of the Royal Show 111 theIr declSlon to revert to the old order, by holding the annual meeting of the Society in different parts of the country, in preference to the Park Royal venture. At Newcastle this year everything contributed to make the meeting a success, record attendance, re ce ipts and weatber. The ambulance arrangements were carried out in the main by the Newcastle-on-Tyne Division of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, under the general supervision of the Deputy-Commissioner of the District, Lieut.-Col. Gibbon. The ambulance station, which was in medical charge of Hon. Surgeon J. M. Gover, M.B., assisted by Supt. A. L. Gibbon and Sergts. W. J. Verrier and G. R. Curry, was the well-known little building, consisting of four well-appointed rooms, so well known to the old campaigners who have had the pleasure and privileg: of doing ambulance duty at "The Royal" in the past.

The following was the staff detailed for duty each day -one hon. surgeo n, one superintendent, one lady superintendent, one non-commissioned officer, eight privates, .and two nurs1l1g sisters. Assistance to the latter was glVen when required by two sisters from the Newcastle Infirmary, who were on duty at the pavilion se lling souvenirs of the new infirmary. The St. John Am bulance Brigade desire to tender their thanks to these ladies for the kind assi:::tance so readily rendered. Night duty was undertaken by two men of the division.

It was singularly fortunate that the Newcastle Flower Show was being held in conjunction with the Royal Show, and thanks to the kindness of the Flower Show officials the members of the division were enabled each morning to tastefully decorate the several rooms of the station with fresh flowers.

A visitors book was as usual kept in the receiving ward, and several nctable signatures were recorded, including that of the Duke of Devonshire, who visited the station on behalf of their Royal Hignesses the Prince and Princess of Wales, and who was pleas ed to express warm approbation of the ambulance arrangements.

The total number of cases d ea lt with during tbe five days was 91, and may be classified as follows :-Injuries from kicks by animals, 2; cuts, contusions, and abrasions, 38; h cc morrhage from the lun gs, I; epitaxis, I; sprains, 4; faints, 20; foreign bodies in eye, 4; burns and scalds, 4; beat stroke, 7 ; fractures, I nervous collapse, 1 j epilepsy, and concussion, 1. Four of the patients were removed to the infirmary, and five were conveyed to their own homes.

The grateful thanks of the staff on duty are specially due to the following for their great kindness and assistance rendered :-The Stewards of the Dairy for ice and milk; the Oxo Company for supplies of OXf); Messrs. Jeyes Sanitary Disinfecting Company for disinfectants; and to Messrs. Atkinson & Phillipson, coach builders, for loan of wheeled litter.

The mem bers of the division also desire to place on record their appreciation of the kindly and courteous way in which they were assisted in the discharge of their duties by the members of the Metropolitan Police. It was a pleasure and a privilege to work in conjunction with the officers of this splendid force, and the of the division were impressed not only with their admirable method of controlling the crowd, but also by the patience which they showed at all times in the discharge of their duties.

Visit of t he B rit ish Fire B rig ade to Lessines.

AFTER a pleasant passage across, leaving England (Dover) about 1 I.25 a.m., and then by th.e. State from Ostend to Lessines, the Bntish contmgent arnved at 8.25 p m The .officers a?d brigades Fetes, were the :-Chief Officers Plewls, GIllingham; Parker, Chatham; and Finn, Lydd. Superintendents Lacroix, Brighton; and Allison, London Salvage

The contingent consisted of about 24 men, Lleut.Col. Finn in com mand.

On arrival at Lessines the cont1l1gent was receIved by a guard of honour, headed by bands and .commanded by Capitaine Commandant Lesneuxq, Les51l1es. the National Anthem had been rendered the contmgent marched off, proceeded by b.and, to the de Ville where the firemen were dIsmIssed to seek theIr lodgings,' which were to be .their for the next two or three days. The follow1l1g mormng, at .9. a. m., a was held at the Hotel de Ville, the Bntlsh officers bemg invited attended Supt. Lacroix kindly acting as interpreteI'. , After the men formed in the Place and marched off to take their place m the proceSSIOn, which proceeded through the town.

On returning to the Grand Place about hours later, the manreuvres and prize distribution took place.

In the evening a dinner was given in the Hotel de Ville, the English officers being amongst. the guests. Complimentary were made. dI?ner ?y the President of the FederatIOn to the vlsltmg FIre Bngades.

Col. Finn responded in a few suitable words, thanking the mem bers of the Federation and all the officers present for the kind way they had received the British firemen. Supt. Lacroix again kindly acting as interpreter.

A very pleasing evening then took ChIef .Officers Plewis and Parker, and Superintendent presented with the badge of hon. ar:d the dIploma of the Federation. Each of the reCIpIents, 111 a few wellchosen words, r e turned thanks.

The toasts of the evening were the Royal FamIly of Belaium and the King and Queen of England. ousosinaina of the British Nation al Anthem by the Enghsh officers ° w;s followed by the singing of the Belgian and Frencb National airs also.

A fine display of fireworks took place later in the Grand Place, followed by a ball at the

The following day (.Monday) a was paId to. a large match factory and the stone quarnes, where a blastmg operations took place, when some of tons of stone were displaced. In the afternoon the vls.ILors were taken by their hosts in carriages to visit other quarnes the surrounding, and in the eve.ning to private dmner partIes.

The visitors left Lessmes on Tuesday 8 a.m., arriving at Brussels about 8. A motor bus at their disposal, and the C:h1ef of the Brussels Fl1e 1?r?gade kindly lent his private carnage for the who a number of fire stations, where a short drIll was g Iven. After l unch, a trip was made to the of returning to Brussels about 4 o'clock, leav1l1g by !ram for Ostend about 6.15, arriving at Dover 4 p.m., 15 th mst.

It is a great pleasure to place on record. that the officers and men were treated right well and and everybody took the greatest pains to cater fO r thel! comfort and p leasure. Great thanks are due to the ge11la1 ChIef Office r of Less i nes, Commandant Lesneuxq -ANTI-GARLICK

We m ' e in no way responsible lor the opinions or the statements made, by Correspondents.-EDITORS.

THE S.J.A.B. AND THE TERRITORIAL FORCES. DEAR SIR,-Doubtless you have seen the latest bngade order which forbids enlistment by the members of the brigade into the new territorial force. Now can you tell us whether this order is to be retrospective? I am myself, and I know others who are members of the force Hitherto it has never clashed with our brigade duty, why should it be assumed that it is now going to do so? l\1r. Editor, is. rule to apply to highly placed offiCials 111 the brigade, or IS ItS application to be confi ned to the rank and file? Perhaps you can answer that ?-Yours trul y, A "TERRIER" AND ::YIE}IDER S.J.A.B.

[We regret that we are not in a poslt.ion to enlighten <;>ur correspondent; we h ave not seen the bngade order to which he refers. If it is as he asserts, the order does seem at first blush somewhat arbitrary, but doubtless the Gate authorities have some good and valid reason for the step they propose to take. The fact must not be lost sight of that the bngade may now almost be considered an ambulance reserve for the regular forces and that beInU so it is open to question whether it is that men belong to both bodies, but as .we said at first, not havin g seen the. order we scarcely advise. We should think, howe\'er, Its .would be applicable to all ranks? both high and low. It It IS deemed advisable that the man 111 the ranks should not belong to both forces, how much more so is it that an officer not so engaged. In the tim.e of emergency hiS servIces might be most essential to the bu.t the forces of the Crown would naturally have the pnor claIm, and would be hardly likely to waive that claim. Doubtless s01'? e of our readers who are in the know may be able to enlIghten our correspondent.-E D. "F.A."].

SIR -I am a bricrade surgeon. and I also belong to the voluntee'r for ce' or rather the territorial force; 1'?y first officer has just to my a brig-ade or?er Issued. by the Chief CommI sSIoner forbIddIng the holdmg of. thIS dual position. This has placed me on the horns of a .I strongly resent the suggestion. I. should resIgn H.'s Majesty's con:mission at the 111stlgatlOn of an a utocratIc civihan authorIty, and on hand I am to my briO'ade and take a warm 111terest 111 my men and their work, and should regret hav ing to gi,·e them up. there are other surgeons similarly so. placed \Vhat IS the proper course to pur sue? If r must resIgn my brIgade. I do not think I shall do so alone Nor is this all the eVIl lIkely to accrue from this mischievous order, ever since I quailfied I ha\'e taken an interest in the Association and given several lectures, and all gratuitously If I resign the one r wlthdra:v from the other and I shall find some other outlet to which I may devo(e my spare time..

I am writin O' this more 111 sorrow than anger, but :vhatever can be thinking about to Issue so. drastIC an order. I trust that some other brigade surgeons wIll take the matter up. 1 f I enclose my card (not for and than.:: you or kindly inserting this leter.-I am, SIr, yours fa ith fully, JESTHESIOJ\IETER.

FIRE DRILL IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS. SIR, - Having mi.staken. the point you raised your April issue, and haVIng wntten you on the compal1l0n of

-FIRST

"Fire Drill," "Fire Protection," I feel t h at the importance of tbe two subjects, justifies my adding, tb at from my experience fire drill as now tau g ht, is simply a method of more rapid exit than that usually adopted, and would prO\ e but of little or no value in a case of real emergency.

No, Sir; fire drill to be of any benefit at the time needed, must of ne cessity be of a very practica l character, and should include the use of tbe jumping sheet, life line, canvas sheet, scaling ladders, &c.

Experience has tau g ht myself and others, that to get a child to jump from any hei g ht is the hardest thing in the world, therefore, by practice it is necessary that the y shou ld have the confidence within hem, that the jumping-sheet will bear them, that the rope ladder be ca use it bends and swings is not going to give way, &c.

maintain that t he boys, and g irls, too, of the senior standards should be told off and instructed in various duties such as giving the alarm at the nearest call-post in the street, to man and fix the hydrants, and to fetch the chemi cal extinguishers, when sLlch are on the school premises; the se duties should, o f course, be under the supervision and direction of a tea cher. Seeing that we are more t h an ever used to copying our American friends in the building- o f minature s k y scrapers, three -s torey buildings, planting a boiler house under

o ne fligh t of s t airs a n d the main gas-meter under ano ther, two good bombs to assist in the cutting off of escape in a real emerg-ency. I say, therefore, that we need a drill in our schoo ls which shall be of a very practical kind to make it efficient, especially when we know that some thousand chi ldren are on the premises.

When we have a dril l of this character in li se in our schools, then we might be justified in our statement that such a calamity is well nigh impos sib le this side of the" herring pond."

Thankin g you for insertion - I am, Sir, yours truly, FIRE DRILL.

[With a ll due deferen c e to our correspondent, we must take exception to his contention that "fire drill," or, as he prefers to term it, "a more rapid method of exit," would be of no avail in case of real emergency We know of several instances where pupils who have been thoroughly grounded in this e xercise hav e on the rp.al alarm of fire been quietly conduc ted to a place of safety. We do not say that his suggestions are not of real value. We think they are, and having seen a compa ny of very young lads belon gi ng to a Boys' Life Brigade go through the several drills he suggests, we know that they not only can carry them out in a most pra c tical manner, but they that take a keen and earnest interest in the in s truction.- ED " F.A. " ]

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Aids to Memory

FOR

Clinical Surgery, Aberdeen Roya l Infirmary; Examiner in Clini cal Surgery to the University of Kdinburgh; Exam iner to the SI. Andrew s Ambulance A<sociation, and the Sl. John Ambulance Association, London. " A capital book The directions are sbort and clear, and testify to the hand of an able surgeon "-EdiJt. llled. journal.

FIRST AID - AT SEA.

Third Edition, In Handsome Cloth, 6s. A MEDICAL AND SURCICAL HELP

FOR SHtP \tASTEt!S AI<IJ

First Aid Students.

By L. M. FRANK CHRISTIAN, M.B., C.M., Edin. Iron. Life j1le/ll(,er oJ, and Examiner./01', tlte St. joiln A IIIb7tlancc Asso c iatioll.

" I t is a splendid little borok-kindly send me 40, cheque 1,1 encloser!."

As it is the wish and desire of the Proprietors to make this Journal as instructive and entertaining as possible, correspondents in all parts of the country are asked to give it all the help they can.

Superintendents of Corps and Officers of Divisions of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, Officers of the Royal Army Medical Corps (Volunteers)., the Volunteer Ambulance Schoo of In struction and Chief Officers of Fire Brigades will, it is hoped, do thei r best to' make it known amongst the members of their respective organisations, and will also send for publication their official news and notices Suggest tions are invited for Prize Competitions and other matters which will advance the interest of the Joumal.

vVe particularly desire to ask our correspondents to be brief and to the point in any communications they may send us for publication.

Correspondents se nding in photos are urgently requested to state on the back of the same the name of the individual or the Corps or Brigade, and give also the name and address of the sender.

We beg to advise our readers that we do no t pay for photographs or copy sent , unless previously agreed upon in writing.

" First Aid" is published on the 20th of the month.

EDITORIAL.

THE sad calamity which occurred durRealism in in g a Fi re Brigade Display in Fire Displays. On the 22nd of June, whereby three ch ildren of tender years lost their lives , tempts one to ask the question whether, in their desire to make these sp ectacles as realistic as possible, the organisers are not incurring grave responsibility by placing in possible jeopardy th e lives of human beings?

Of co urse, it may be argued that provided all the details of the program me arranged to safeguard the performers are carefully and accurately carried out no danger can ensue but it is just the possibility that they may not be so carried out, which l eads us to ask the question whether, considering the possibility of risk, the organisers are justified in permitting thos e taking part to be placed in a position, which, may in th e event of a hitch, involv e immin e nt risk to the performers? No doubt it is more exc itin g to the spectators to see the intrepid fire fighters effec the rescue of a living subject, rather than to see him carry down th e escape th e in animate dummy, which in the old days did duty a s the rescued inmate j and to the morbidly inclin ed amongst the onlookers, it is just the element of risk which lends a n additional zest to th e spectacle;

but is it wise or right to pander to this taste? We unhesitatingly say it is not. The ri sk involved, even under the most careful conditions, is a very serious one, and human life is much too sacred to justify its being risked either to enhance the realism of the spectacle or to prove the intrepidity and courage of the rescuers.

To our comrades across the seas so tragically deprived of their littl e ones, we tender our sincere and heartfelt sympathy May we venture to hope that the lesson which this sad event has taught, may not be altogether without effect, and that for the future those undertaking the organising or conduct of such displays, will refrain from yielding to the desire of the popular taste, for a realism which may have so sad and tragic a result.

London Ambulance Service.

IN the last session of Parliament a series of questions were submitted to the Horne Secretary by Dr. Cooper (member for Bermondsey). In reply to a question as to the L.e.e. Bill of 1906 the Rt. Hon. gentleman said that the Bill provided for general pow ers to establish an ambulance service, but the intention was only to provide a service of an experimental and limited character. The clauses were thrown out by a Committee of the House of Lords after consideration of the Home Office report on the Bill and a Departmental Committee was shortly afterwards appointed to enquire into the whole question.

In reply to a further question as to whether he was aware that during the sitting of the Departmental Committee on London Ambulance, litter ambulances amounting to more than 100 were placed in the streets of London, and if so, whether he would state by whose authority these ambulances were placed in the streets ; how much was the total cost; and whether the cost would be a charge upon the rates.

Mr. Gladstone replied that a large number of litter am bulances had been placed in the streets by his authority, some were authorised before the appointment of the Committee, others since its sittings commenced. The cost of a wheeled litter, with the appliances and shelter, was £35 14S 6d. This was defrayed out of the Metropolitan Police fund.

To our mind the purchase of these litters can only have been made with one object, viz., to still further in_ definitely postpone the provision of a thoroughly up-to-date and reliable ambulance service. We trust that the Metropolitan Streets Ambu lance Association have noted the replies of the Home Secretary, and will at an early date reopen a vigorous campaign a nd carry it on until this really pressing q u estion is adequately dealt with.

street, E.C.

New Ambulance Headquarters at Colne.

ONCE more Lancashire is to the fore with another local division well housed in commodious and handsome headquarters.

We congratulate Col. Trim ble on the zeal and energy which is so conspicuous a characteristic of the units under his command, and we especially congratulate Hon. Surgeon Dicky and Supt. Scott, and the officers and members of the Colne Ambulance and Nursing Divisions on the success, the very marked success, which has attended their efforts to put Colne, in the matter of ambulance equipment, on a su bstan tiai footing.

The new headquarters which were formally opened on July 18th by Col. Sir Lees Knowles, are situated in Swan Croft, and with the land, has cost £1,800, all of which, with the exception of about £300, has already been raised. The premises comprise an assem bly hall, which will also be used for drill purposes; a reading-room, committee room and nurses' room, and has also accommodation for the am bulance wagon.

Prior to the opening ceremony a procession was formed in Bridge-street and proceeded through principle streets to the new headquarters where, on arrival, a gold key was presented to Col. Sir Lees Knowles on behalf of the members of the ambulance and nursing divisions, by Hon. Surgeon Dicky.

Sir Lees Knowles, Nho was in uniform, then opened the hall door and led the way upstairs to the platform of the assembly hall, where an inaugural meeting, presided over by the Mayor, was His Worship was supported by Sir Lees Knowles, Col. Trimble, C. M.G. (Deputy Commissioner), and a brge and distinguished company.

The Mayor, in formally opening the proceedings, gave an interesting address on the growth of the am bulance movement in Colne, and in conclusion, alluding to the formation of the new Territorial force, urged that the scheme, which was an ideal one, provided the Government would only find the necessary funds, should have a fair trial and the support of all parties.

Col. Lees Knowles, who received a rousing reception, expressed the pleasure which he felt at visiting Colne for the purpose of opening their new headquarters. As Chairman of the East Lancashire Territorial Association, he paid a warm tribute to the work of their Mayor as a member of the Council of the Association. Alluding to the promise of his Majesty the King, to present colours to the West and East Lancashire Territorial Divisions, he said it was an honour which he hoped would put fresh enthusiasm into their men, their athletes, and those men who could and would make g?od Territorial soldiers. He also came among them as a Kmght of the Order of St. John, to which he was proud to belong. The Order was doing a splendid work, and one which entitled it to the gratitude of the nation. Speaking of the progress of ambulance work, Sir Lees Knowles said it was an admitted fact that many a life had been saved which must have been lost but for the timely intervention of someone skilled in first aid. While he had no desire to interfere with the units of the St. John Ambulance Association, it seemed to him that those who were pupils and those who had obtained their certificates might very well fill up the Territorial units. One work was following on the other. At all events there was no reason why there should be any rivalry. The two should work hand in hand; they both had the same objects and aims at

A I D.- August, 1908.

heart and the good of the community, and the good of mankind. He wished their grand organisation every success.

Col. Trimble, in proposing a vote of thanks to Sir Lees Knowles, spoke of the early struggles of the Ambulance Brigade and how little it was recognised or understood prior to the South African war. He congratulated the officers and Members of the Colne Division on the acquisition of permanent headquarters. In concluding, the Colonel said, it was the duty of every young man to do something for his country, either by joining the ambulance brigade or enlisting in the Territorial army. Hon. Surgeon Hey seconded, and it was carried un animously.

Alderman Hewett-Dean proposed, and Supr. Scott seconded a vote of thanks to his Worship for presiding.

During the proceedings the \1ayor decorated P.e. Dunphy, of the Colne pJlice, with the bronze medal cf the Royal Humane Society for saving the life of a boy from drowning.

The St. John Ambulance Brigade Bearer Companies.

THE Bristol or "F)J Bearer Company travelled to York on Sunday, August 2nd, to undergo a course of training in hospital work. The contingent num bered 36 and was in charge of Sergeant-Major Jones. Entraining at Temple Meads Station, they arrived in York at 8,30 and marched to Fulford Baracks, a distance of about two miles.

The daily duty consisted of about five hours work in the medical and surgical wards, also duties in connection with the dispensary, laboratory, office, &c. They were also required to attend three daily parades. The men entered thoroughly into the work, which was made in every way interesting by the willingness with which they were assisted by their comrades of the R.A.M.C.

Reveille sounded each morning at 5.30, and after the evening meal, which took place at 4. IS, the men were free to enjoy themselves for the rest of the day. The weather was delightful and the men thoroughly enjoyed the training.

The Sheffield or "C" Bearer Company underwent a week's training at Aldershot. Leaving Sheffield on Sunday, August 2nd, they arrived at Aldershot in the evening, and having been posted to their tents and drawn their bedding and other equipment, were supplied with a good hot meal prior to turning in for the night.

The camp was pitched close to the hospital, and the men partook of their meals in a large marquee the sergeants being made members of the sergeants' mess. A splendid spirit of en camarade existed between the S.J.A. B and R.A. M.C., the N.C.O's and men of the latter having done everything in their power to make the visit a pleasant one as well as instructive.

As far as possible in so short a period the men had experience of every duty, the majority were detailed to the nursing- wards. Instruction was also given in company cooking, X Rays, and massage. Duties were also undertaken in the surgery and operating theatre, stewards, linen and pack stores. The men also attended two lectures each day-one in the morning, by a medical officer, on general hospital and field ambulance duties; and one in afternoon, by the matron or One of the nursing sisters on nursing and the care of the sick and wounded.

Sergt.-Major W. A. Browne had charge of the men during the training, the Commanding Officer of the Company (Ron.-Surgeon A. Asken Clark) being unable to attend.

August, 19 08

The Mounted Nurses of the Yeomanry Corps.

By F. CORDEUX-RHYS.

-FIRST

Girls

COLONEL RICARDO, C.V.O., after inspecting the mounted section of The Islington Drill Brigade Girls Yeomanry, said, "He did not know that there was anything like it in the world,)) adding, "I think it a very good idea indeed. It is splendid to see girls so smart and enthusiastic."

The Girls Yeomanry is a development of the Islington Drill Brigade, which has for its founder Captain Baker, a well -known advocate of physical culture and a thorough disciplinarian. This gentleman deserves nO stinted praise

AI D.- 19

yellow sash, red and blue service caps, with chin straps, a natty riding whip completing the equipment.

The members are all strong and efficient riders and handle their mounts in a manner calculated to excite the admiration of critical equestrians. This is obvious from the fact that Colonel Ricardo has invited them to give a display next year at the annual Naval and Military Tournament.

The corps is as yet in its infancy, but its future should prove a success. The idea of "mounted nurses" is good, and if carried out properly there is no reason why each re g iment should not have attached to its strength nurses wearing the regimental dress, riding with "the boys;" in time of peace making for their moral and physical we ll fare, and in time of war acting as their ministering angels.

To those who, like myself, have smelt powder burned in earnest, and have had experience of the horrors of war as seen during the strife and after the fighting is over, it must bp obvious that there is ample room for the work of first aid and rescue, and this scheme should be car efully watched, as there is no reason why this, the first troop of Girls Yeomanry, should not be the nucleus of many similar institutions both at home and abroad. Any way, the experiment is an interesting one, and certainly calculated to stimulate the spirit of patriotism and pride in our Army.

Apart from a military aspect it must be kept in mind that a girl who can ride well, and can also administer first aid in cases of emergency, is a valuable a cquisition in a new country. It is quite probable that some of these who are getting their training here will go abroad, a nd they will certainly keep up the honour and glory of the old country better if they are able to hold their own with their C olonial sisters, who can ride anything and anyway - sid e- saddle, astride or bare-back; and this how English girls should be taught.

Reviews.

]OHNSTO ' s STUDE TS ' ATLAS OF BONES AND LIGA:\IE N TS.

By C. \V. Cathcart, M.A., F.R.C.S.,

both for the inception of the brigade and the excellent state of training and discipline to which he has brought it. The corps is now some 500 strong, has an excellent band, and its latest feature is this section of mounted nurses.

Up to the present there enrolled in t?is section some thirty members, lOcludmg Lady Ernestme Hunt and the two Misses Greenall, who ably second her as lieutenants. Lady Ernestine has had considerable experience in the field hospitals of South .and thus utilising practical knowledge of nurslOg gamed m war time and under adverse circumstances to advantage.

The sergeant-major, Miss Kate Baker, is a most efficent nom. com., and although this young lady is only sOI?e IS years of age she handles the mem bers of her troop With the ease and a;surance of an soldier. She is an excellent horsewoman and a capable exponent of first aid, as are her superior officers and most of the girls. . .

The uniform is workmanlike and attractive, conslstmg of a crimson zouave, with the usual badges, crossed spurs, &c., on the sleeve, blue riding skirt and riding boots,

&r ,

and F. 1\[, Caird, l\1.B., F.R.C.S

THIS work has been most carefully and acc uratel y prepared, and reflects credit alike on those respom.ible for both the illustrations and the letterpress. To the medIcal student of the present day the book should pro\ e 1.'he descriptive letterpress which appears on each plate IS a capItal idea and should enable the student to accuratel y remember points which it is necessary for his to vVe congratulate all concerned.in the productIon of invaluable work and commend It not only to the medical student but to all of those who take an interest in the study of anatom'y. It is published by l\lessrs. W. & A. K. Johr.ston, Ltd., London and Edinburgh.

We have received from Messrs. Thomas Christy & Co., of Old Swan-lane, a specimen of their "Double Christia." This is a most useful substance and has many advantages over rubber sheeting, as it is not only waterpro?f, but it is unaffected by spirit, chloroform, ether,. grease, 011, &c:, the price is also in its favour bemg. but two"shllhngs per yard. Medical and nurses. Will find Double Christia" most useful as It packs away 10 a small compass.

BRISToL.-On the occasion of the recent visit of the King and Queen to this City to open the nlw dock, ambulance duty was undertaken along the line of route and at the Docks. There were 310 on duty, all fine, well set up men, who made a brave show as they marched through the streets to take up positlOn at the 32 selected stations. They were under the command of the Deputy-Commissioner Dr. J. S. Griffiths, assisted by his staff officers, Asst.-CommisMajor Laurie, Dr. Cotton, and Mr. Sprawson; Dlst. Supt. Eugene Street and Chief Surgeon and Chief Supt. Chas. Hayman, M.D., each taking charge of a sub· command ; Avonmouth Docks being in the charge of Supt. J upe, the hon. surgeons beingUeputy Inspector-General M.D., R.N., and Dr. Rolfe. The returns from the various stations show that over 1,000 cases of fainting and slight injuries occurred. The temporary hospitals at St. John's Schools on the Downs, and at Park-place were kept busy throughout the day, and found to be of great service for the more serious cases. At 4 o'clock 260 officers and men sat down to a ;mbstantial meal at the Men's School, Redcross-street, where the Deputy Commissioner and his staff welcomed them and thanked them for their services commending them for their self-denial in giving up the 'holiday for the benefit of those who were suffering-words which received with loud cheers and much enthusiasm.

Among the messages received by the brigade were the following :-" Their Majesties noticed with pleasure the successful means to ensure the safety and comfort of those gathered in the streets and in such vast numbers. His Majesty could not fail to notice the help given to the veterans by the St. John men, and also to those who were treated by the way." A letter from an officer in the Territorial Army to the Deputy Commissioner said: "May I congratulate you on the successful organisation of the Ambulance Brigade arrangements on the 9th. Your men had the hardest work by far, and did it as well as it could be done." From the secretary of the Bristol Education Committee came the compliment: ,. I congratulate you upon your successful ambulance arrangements on Thursdays." The Lord Mayor referred, at the close of the Tournament, to the work of the St John Ambulance Brigade on the 9th in words of the highest commendation. In fact, the general opinion of the citizens upon the St. John Ambulance work was that it was beyond praise.

DOVER.-The local division, assisted by detachments from the neighbouring units, undertook ambulance charge at College during pageant week. Beyond a few fa1l1ts no cases of Importance required treatment but no little indignation was freely expressed by some of the doing duty, at the fact that the ambulance tent was utlltsed for the repairing of rents and tears in the of some of the performers It was felt that the posltl?n was not. a ?ne for the brigade, more espeCIally as outSide was exhibited a notice, "Mending of

August, 19 08. all kinds done here." Surely a separate tent could have been provided for this purpose

No. 3 District.

NORTHAMPToN.-The annual inspection of this fine corps was held on the 18th in the cricket field of the St. Andrew's Hospital in the presence of a large concourse of people. There was a total of 159 of all ranks on parade. The inspecting officer was Asst. Commissioner T H. Woolston.

After the corps had gone through a series of drills, which were carried out in a manner which reAected the highest credit on all engaged, it was paraded in front of the pavilion, where Lady Randall presented prizes and certificates. The handsome silver challenge cup presented by the Marquis of Northampton for annual competition, was handed to Sergeant T. Worth, who was in charge of the winning team.

Addressing the parade, the Inspecting Officer said the corps had well maintained its efficiency and was a credit to Northampton. Apart from their first aid work it would be a calamity to the town if it ceased to exist. Their services in the matter of transport, both by day and by night a work they had undertaken voluntarily now for many years past, entitled them to the gratitude of the townspeople. He hoped that the time was not now far distant when they would be properly housed in their new headquarters, and by this time next year the premises would be paid for and that there would be effaced from his memory that miserable subscription list which had not advanced a farthing for the past 24 or 25 years. That was, however, all going to be altered; the matter had been taken thoroughly in hand, and they would not only have new headquarters but a handsome annual subscription list as well. They had done their duty to the town, and he felt sure the town was proud of them, and for the sake of the sick and injured whose sufferings it was their aim to alleviate, would see that they received adequate and proper support wherewith to carryon their work. He regretted the absence of Col. Elliston, but he should send him an excellent report on their efficiency and the progress they had made. In conclusion, he moved a vote of thanks to Lady Randall, and asked her ladyship to present to BuglerSergeant Elliott a silver-plated bugle, in recognition of his services. The presentation was made amidst applause, and at the request of Lady Randall, Sergeant Elliott then sounded the "Assembly," subsequently returning thanks in a neat little speech. District Chief Surgeon Audland seconded the vote, which was carried with acclamation and acknowledged by Sir Henry Randall, who ventured to predict that, as a result of that inspection, and the very marked progress they were making, as evidenced by their having won the" Dewar" Shield, they would shortly have a subscription list worthy of the corps.

Chief Supt. Harvey Reeves returned thanks to Dr. Bartley for kindly placing the parade ground at their disposal. This was seconded by Hon. Surgeon Cham berlain.

The corps band discoursed a selection of music during the afternoon, and after the speeches tea was served by Linn =11 Brothers.

WOLVERHAMPTON.- The annual inspection of this division took place at the DE.anery on Sunday afternoon, July 26th, Asst. Commissioner T. H. Woolston was the inspecting officer, and at ,the close expressed his entire satisfaction with the drill and the state of the stores and the way the books and records had been kept.

August,

19 0 8 -FIRST

No. 4 District.

BURY.-District Supt. Treasurer F. de Beho hm was the inspectll1g officer at the annual ins?ection of the Ambulance and Nursing Divisions here, which took place in rooms of the Y.M.C.A., on July 30th. There was a good muster present on parade of both divisions, and at the conclusion the inspecting officer stated that he had been satisfied, and should make a good report to the Deputy Commissioner. Pte. Stanley Thomas qualified as Sergeant, and Ptes. Royds and Sharples as Corporals.

LANcAsTER.-The Ambulance and Nursing Divisions were inspected on July 21st by the Deputy Commissioner of the District, Col. Trimble, C.M.G., V.D. There was a good muster on parll:de! and at conclusion the inspecting officer spoke appreciatively of the general advance in both divisions, and expressed the hope that the public of Lancaster would rally to the support of a cause so noble, and which represented so much real self-denial and selfsacrifice.

TOTTINGTON.-A meeting was held here recently to consider the position of the local division. The discussion which ensued, according to the local press, showed a lamentable state of affairs.

Mr. Grindrod proposed that the division should be disbanded, owing to the lack of interest shown by the members and the lack of public support. As a result of not attending practice he (the speaker) did not believe there was a member at the present time fit to render first aid. The first aid boxes were not in a good condition, and the place of meeting was in a shameful state. The work had all been lcrt to one or two.

Supt. Masser said if the division was disbanded it would result in all thE. property being sent to headquarters. That was according to rule. Asked what was the value of the property, the reply was £50.

Mr. Peers thought it would be a pity to disband, he believed there was sufficient enthusiasm in the division to carryon the work. He thought before they allowed their property to leave the district-property subscribed for locally-they should consult with the Chairman of the District Council and ascertain if it was not possible to gtt more support.

Supt. Masser, while agreeing with certain of Mr. Grindrod's strictures, thought that the statemE.nt that not a mem ber was com:Jetent to render first aid was a mistaken one. Unless, however, more support was given, he failed to see how the division could go on.

The proposition of Mr. Grindrod was not seconded, and commenting upon the fact that gentleman said that though sorry in one sense he was glad in another, it showed that some of those present were favourable to its continuance and prepared to work fur it. He therefore withdrew his previous proposal and substituted the following, "That we convene a meeting and invite District Councillors to attend, and circularise the district with a view to re-organising the division."

This was seconded and duly carried, and a consu1tative committee was appointed to further discuss the question.

Replying to Mr. Peers, who asked how the nursing division was going on, Miss Bentley said it was in a gooJ state of efficiency, and seven new members had recently joined.

"WHITEFIELD.-The annual review and competitions in connection with the South-East Lancashire Corps _a nd

A I D.- 21

took place on July 18th. Twelve Ambulance and Nursing Divisions took part, the inspectll1g Asst.-Commissioner J. c. Derham. The mspectll1g officer was received with a general and, after inspecting the ranks, took up posltlOn the salutll1g pomt for the march pa'3t. This was very creditably performed, there being almost an entire absence of swaY1l1g when passing the saluting point. The competitions which followed were keenly contested and closely watched by a large concourse of spectators. The result was subsequently declared as follows :-In the ambulance competition Crompton took first place With 102 marks, Ashton was second with 98 marks, and Rochdale ran Ashton very close with 97 marks. In the nursing competitions Crompton was first Bacup second and Ashton third.

Addressing the parade, at the conclusion the Inspecting Officer expressed his satisfaction at the he had witnessed, and stated that his report to the Deputy Commissioner would be a favourable one. That was the third occasion on which it had been his privilege to inspect them, and on each occasion, since the first time he had noted a marked improvement. He consideled display he had witnessed that afternoon had been excellent, and he was also pleased to see that the strength of the several units was well maintained.

Before presenting the prizes Councillor Bradshaw, on behalf of himself, his wife, tne members of the District Council and the inhabitants generally extended to the various corps and divisions a hearty welcome to Whitefield. It was the first time they had held the review there, and although Whitefield was a small place it took a great interest in the work which they were engaged in. After the presentation several votes of thanks were passed, and subsequently the officers and members were entertained by Councillor Bradshaw and the mp.mbers of the District Council.

No. 5 District.

HEANoR.-Headed by the Heanor Old Brass Band this division, on August 1st, marched to Shipley Hall, where Mr. E. M. Mundy, J.p., presented certificates to several of the mem bers, and Mrs. Mundy, on behalf of the members of the division, presented Hon. Surgeon and Supt. W. H. Turton with a silver mounted umbrella, suitably engraved, as a mark of appreciation of his strvices as instructor to the recent class.

Addressing the members at the conclusion, Mr. Mundy said he had for some years taken a keen interest in ambulance work. Every credit was due to the men who sacrificed time and money to perfect themselves in such work. He hoped the day was not far distant when ambulance corps would be recognised by the Government of the country.

After refreshments had been served, Mr. and Mrs. Mundy accompanied the members around the grounds.

TIBSHELF.-The annual inspection of the Birchwood, Blackwell and Tibshelf Corps took place in the grounds of Doe Hill House on August 1St. The inspecting officer was Surgeon General Sir William Taylor, K.C.B., and the parade was under the command of Deputy Commissioner Stuart C. Wardell. The ambulance tent and nursing division was under the supervision of Lady Supt. Mrs. S. C. Wardell.

After going through several movements, compns1l1g company and stretcher drill and bandaging, the several corps were drawn up and addressed by the inspecting

-FIRST

officer who said their work that afternoon had been excellent. 'The officers and men presented an appearance of which Deputy Commissioner Wardell might well be proud. He desired also to congratulate Lady Supt. Mrs. Wardell on the efficiency of her nursing divisions.

The officers and men were afterwards entertained by Mr. and Mrs. Wardell. The Birchwood Ambulance Band was in attendance, and played a choice selection of music.

lLKESTON.- This corps marched to Shipley Hall on August 5th, where they were received by Mr. E. M. Mundy who presented certificates and to some of the mem bers. They were afterwards entertamed by Mr. and Mrs. Mundy, and subsequently made an inspection of the handsome grounds and gardens. Chief Surgeon and Chief Supt. Dobson was in command and there were about 60 men on parade.

,VORKSOP.-This division was inspected on July 26th. Hon. Surgeon and Supt. Helm Montague was in command, and the inspecting officer was District Supt. of Stores F. S. Lambert. Headed by the bugle band, the division marched by way of Bridge-street and Central-avenue to the cricket field, where the inspection was held.

The inspecting officer first closely inspected the men and their equipment, after which they marched past. Sergt. Fuller then put them through company drill and Corp. Frecknall through stretcher drill, and finally Dr. Montague put them through stretcher drill in extended order by signal.

The inspecting officer at the close addressed the parade, and expressed his gratification at the improvement he had noted since his last visit. He urged them to increase their numbers if only out of compliment to their hon. surgeon, who devoted so much of his time to their advancement. After pointing out a few slight errors, the inspecting officer concluded his remarks and subsequently inspected the stores and ambulance wagon.

No. 6 District.

A camp of instruction in connection with this district was held during the Bank Holiday week. A fatigue party under Supt. Troy, Felling Corps, pitched the camp, which was located in the grounds of the Black Hall Rocks Hotel.

During the meeting important and interesting work was carried out under the supervision of the camp commandant, DIstrict Supt. of Stores Claude B. Palmer, consisting of stretcher drill, lectures in field sanitation, and first aid work generally.

On Sunday, service was held in camp, the sermon being preached by the Rev. Dr. Steel, the Vicar of Heworth. The service was accompanied by the band of the Felling Colliery Corps, and at its close a collection was made on behalf of the funds of the British Ophthalmic Hospital at Jerusalem.

On Monday the Felling Colliery Corps was inspected by District Chief Surgeon Robertson Crease. The march past was faultlessly executed, and was witnessed by a large num?er of spectators. The splendid band of the corps was m atten.dance and played a s:;lection of music during the proceedmgs. Camp was struck on Monday night and the several corps and divisions marched off headed by the band.

The officers in camp were :-District Supt. of Stores

C. B. Palmer in command, District Chief Surgeon Robertson Crease, Chief Surgeon Millar, and Hon Surgeon Dr. Watson, Supt. Krause, Hull Corps (adjutant), Supt.

AI D.- August, 1908

A. L. Gibbon, Supt. Sec. W. Handyside, Supt. of Stores

A. Bloomfield. Supt. J. Oliver, Supt. Wilson, ISt Officer W. Robson, and 2nd Officer Dobbs, the total number of officers and men in cam p being 15 0

The catering was done by the proprietor of the Black Hall Rocks Hotel, and was carried out in first-rate style, and gave universal satisfaction.

No. 7 District.

CARDIFF.-About 70 ladies attended at the City Hall on July 2 Ist, at the invitation of the Lady Mayoress, to consider the desirability of forming a nursing division. The Lady Mayoress presided, and the objects were explained by Mr. Herbert Lewis, the hon. sec. of the Cardiff Centre, S.J.A.A. Speeches in support of the proposal were made by Dr. Wallace, Dr. Thomas, Miss Morgan, of the Jubilee Nurses Institution, and others, and it was unanimously decided to form a division. Almost the whole of the ladies present gave in their names as members, the initiative being taken by the Lady Mayoress amidst applause.

Colonial.

NEW ZEALAND BRANCH.-A district ot this branch was held in Christchurch, in June. The Council of the Christchurch Centre, S.].A.A., placed the Council-room of the Association at the disposal of the officers. The agenda paper was a fairly comprehensive one, and the subjects for discussion were as follows :-

The institution of a banner or other challenge trophy for competition. Establishment of an unattached list of officers on the same basis as the unattached list for military officers. The form of examination for officers, sergeants and corporals. The question of providing permanent quarters for units of the brigade. Formation of corps or divisions in connection with fire brigades, railway workshops, tramway services, etc. Attendance at sports, etc. Establishment of dressing stations on all sports grounds. Formation of suburban sections in connection with city corps and divisions, and extension of brigade work in various towns. Issue of a certificate of commendation for services rendered in connection with the brigade. Abolition of the annual re-examination. Supervision of ambulance stores and depots by members of the brigade. Contributions from units towards the administrative expenses of the brigade. Regulations governing the issue of a service certificate. Issue of a service medal-either for New Zealand or over-sea branches. Equipment list for ambuand nursing divisions. Use of wall plates to indicate the residence of ambulance men.

All the above subjects were submitted for discussion and recommendation by the Deputy Commissioner for New Zealand (Major George Barkley, V.D.). The District Chief Superintendent for Canterbury and West Coast, submitted the following:-

Methods to be adopted to call out members of divisions to attend at any great disaster and the procedure to be adopted. The advisability of adopting a uniform equipment throughout New Zealand. The formation of a life-saving section to act in conjunction with fire brigades and salvage corps, and to work independently when required. The appointment of extra offices to act as staff instructors. The advisability of fixing the maximum strength of nursing divisions at 60 members. The formation of an ambulance library. Adoption of the text-book on " Military Sanitation." The institution of a street tele-

August, 1908 -FIRST phone service for ambulance calls. Increased training of. nursing divisions-sick room COOkery. Schools of instruction for officers at district headquarters and the issue of certificates to successful candidates, etc. Finance of the brigade in the district. Instruction in swimming and lifesaving. Social gathtrings of mem bers of the brigade. Institution of a brigade band. Out-of-doors practices. Instruction in the use of military equipment and general conference for New Zealand.

District Superintendent Secretary Fitch (temporary appointment) submitted for discussion "The question of combined meetings and practices."

Acting Lady Superintendent Irene Staveley forwarded the details of a uniform for nursing officers and sisters for recommendation to St. John's Gate.

Superintendent Secretary J. H. East submitted: "The question of obtaining the attendance of tramway employes at Brigade practises. Tramway men wearing brigade badges on uniform while on duty, providing they are of the brigade."

Superintendent Crowley forwarded: "The advisability of forming an auxiliary force from amolJgt Association certificate holders, to act in times of great disaster."

Lady Superintendent Smith sent in: "The advisability of instituting enquiries on the new first aid boxes being instituted in Paris, with a view to their adoption III Christchurch."

Explanatory notes were attached to each subject set down for discussion, and this system very greatly aided the officers in their del i berations.

District Chi e f Officer A. S. Lindsay presided, and a large number of medical, ambulance, and nursing F.<\IlY'S TANDEl\[ CYCLE officers attended and took part in the deliberations.

The thanks of the Brigade are due to the Association for providing a special reporter for the Conference and for the use of the Council-room. The proceedings of the Conference are now being revised by the District Chief Superintendent and will shortly be available for perusal by officers and members of the brigade. Committees, which are set up to deal with the details of certain subjects, will forward a return of their decisions for attach ment to t he proceedings. One Committee has already concluded its work and sent in its returns.

CANTERBURY AND WEST COAST DISTRICT, N.Z.-

The first Church Parade under the auspices of the Brigade in the Canterbury and West Coast District took place on Sunday morning, June 14th, when the Nursing Division of the Christchurch Corps attended Divine Service at the Cathedral.

The district staff were represented by District Chief Superintendent A. S. Lindsay and District Superintendent

AI D.-

Secretary (acting) H. H. Fitch. In his sermon the Rev. P. Haggitt (Precentor of the Cathedral), after welcoming the division, in preaching from the text "God is Love," saM that Am bulance and all other charitable institutions were but illustrations of God's love here on earth.

The best thanks of the division are due to the Precentor of the Cathedral, who spared neither time or trouble in making the first Church Parade in Christchurch a success.

At the last meeting of the division, held in the new Brigade-rooms ll1 'Vorcester-street, the Honorary Surgeon, Captain J. Restell Thomas, delivered a practical and instructive lecture on "Fractures."

The annual report of the New Zealand Branch also to hand is a record of steady progress. Fifteen new units have been formed, with a total membership of 368. Therp. are now 41 corps and divisions on the strength of the Brigade in this district with a membership of I,039 A large amount of transport work has been carried out during the past year. Amongst the nursing divisions, Wellington is deserving of special mention for its excellent district nursing scheme. As the result of a bazaar over £ 400 was cleared, and this amount has been invested by trustees for the nursing of the sick poor of Wellington. It is proposed to obtain the co-operation of the United Fire Brigades Associatiun of New Zealand to assist in the formation of Fire Brigade Divisions. -._.

Messrs. Dennis Bros., Ltd., of Guildford have recently constructed a new fire engine which marks a distinct change from r\l\IHULA;-\CE (s ee page 26). the type at present in universal use. We hope to give details of this in our next issue.

Al\IDULA CE \\' ORK.-The Chapter General of the Grand Priory of the Order of the Hospital of St. J of Jerusalem in England has enrolled as ASSOCiates in recognition of services rendered 10 the cause of ambulance in connection with the Dundee Centre of the S.J.A.A. the following gentlemen :-Colonel Wm. Gordon Thomson, Colonel Howard Hill, Professor Stalker, Dr. Forrest, Auchttrarder; and Mr. Peter Kerr. The S.J.A.A. Dundee Centre recently over the of their property to the St. Andrew s Amb.ulance ASSOClation the members of which are arranglllg for cb.sses during the coming winter in the city.

When corresponding with Advertisers please mention "First Aid."

Brevities.

A LEAFLET, issued by the Peace Society, asks the trenchant question, "which wields the mightier power-the pen or the sword?" Its author then proceeds to discuss the question from every aspect which will give a preference in favour of the pen. A much more pertinent question in considering the relationship of either to the cause of peace would be which wields the more mischevious power? and here the answer would require no long argument or pream ble to arrive at a conclusion, it would be given unhesitatingly in favour of the pen. We are as keen and anxious that the peace of the world shall be maintained as are any of our very good friends who are members of the Peace Society. We do not, however, agree with their methods-some are much more likely to provoke hostilities than to soothe friction. The tongue is a small member, but a very unruly one, and at times its power for evil on the public platform is very marked. This was very much in evidence at the recent Peace Conference.

***

IT is sad also to reflect that even the most advanced members of the Yeace Society have not as yet completely and finally overcome the natural inclination to resort to physical force when all other methods have failed. This was very evident on the occasion when one of their meetings was disturbed by a band of militant Suffragettes. Now we have no sympathy with these ladies nor with the methods which they adopt with a view to obtaining their own ends, but at a meeting of the Peace Society-the members of which are inalienably opposed to the principles of physical force-we should have expected that the persons uf these militant but misguided women would have been sacred. But, no! A correspondent writing to the public press, says that they were ejected with a maximum display of brute force which was far in excess of that made use of by members of the police force when effecting their arrest after the failure of a House of Commons raid.

* * *

QUITE so; for it must be borne in mind that the members of the Police are a body of men trained and disciplined more or less on military lines, and therefore capable of exercising their power 'with the lesser display of physical force. It is just the same with nations. The country that has an efficient police force-that is in its defensive forces-goes placidly about its business full well assured that it is capable of maintaining the peace without having to resort to methods of aggression. Its power lies in the moral conveyed by its preparedness for war-hence it assures the maintenance of peace. Some of the members of the Peace Society where very angry with the Bishop of Carlisle on account of his remarks. But the reasonIng of his Grace was correct. The present time is not yet propitious for any weakening of the defensive forces of this country, all thinking men

AI D.- August, 1908.

and women must realise this if they study carefully the trend of public events. Even the treatment of the Suffragettes at a meeting of the Peace Conference conveys a lesson.

* * *

By the foregoing remarks our readers must not assume that we are advocates for the principles of war. Our views on this question are well known, but we do believe that by systematically traInIng the youth of every country in the principles of succouring the sick and attending the sufferings of the injured, that we are likely to bring out the nobler qualities of humanity, and thereby inculcate the lessons of mutual forbearance and fraternal sympathy one with the other. That this is so was touchingly exhibited at the lamentable colliery disaster which occurred at Lens, in France, when a Miners' Rescue Corps from the country which is regarded as the hereditary foe of France, was dispatched with all the necessary rescue appliances to assist in the rescue of the entombed miners. This spontaneous and generous action on the part of Germany did more to create and further the principles of confraternity between those two nations than would ever be achieved by any amount of discussion on the principles and ethics of arbitration It was a real object lesson on the brotherhood of man irrespective of country.

* * *

Two papers interesting to members of the St. Juhn Ambulance Brigade were and discussed at the recent meeting of the British Medical Association at Sheffield. We shall hope to publish them in a future number; in the meantime we are glad to place on record the fact that in the paper by Lieut.-Col. Twiss, two or three details in connection with the Military Home Hospitals Reserve are pressed home. Col. Twiss, who is a far-seeing and enthusiastic ambulance man, considers there is a place for the St. John nurse in connection with this reserve. He also claims for the ambulance officer enrolling a recognised status and rank on enrolment.

Coming Events.

Pal ,ti eulars ofJortlt eollting events will be inserted in tltis eolu1lt11 free oj cltar ge , if n eeiv ed not later than the I4th of eaclt month

Rav ensthorje.- The annual competition for the "Nevin" Silver Challenge Cup and other prizes will be held on Sept. 12th. The entries will positively close on Monday, Aug. 24th . Han. Sec., W. Ledgard, Droomer-street, Ravenstborpe.

Br£erfield. - The annual ambulance competition for the "Tunstill" Memorial Silver Challenge Shield, and other valuable prizes, will take place in the Wesleyan Schools Brierfield on Saturday, October 3rd. For further particulars 'write A. G: Smitb, sec., Quaker'S Bridge, Bnerfield, near Burnley.

The annual competition for the Dublin Ambulance Challenge Cup, rthe gift of Lord I veagh will be held to-day, August 20th. The present holders of the Cup are the Belfast Fire Brigade.

August, 19 08 -FIRST

Our Portrait Gallery.

THE REV. W. DORE RUDG.:"RD, M.A., DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENT STORES NO,3 DI STRICT.

CNE of the strongest proofs of the thoroughly unsectarian character of the Am bulance work initiated and controlled by the Order of St. John, is to be found in the universal sympathy extended to it by ministers of all denominations. Both in the pulf?it and on the platform they constantly advocate its _claims to public and support.

AI D.-

the District was recently shown by his promotion to the ran.k of District Superintendent of Stores, a promotion gave general for the reverend gentleman IS deservedly popular With all ranks.

The interest of the popular cleric does not however at organisati?n, for, recognising that a healthy stimulus IS given to effiCient work by the promotion of friendly ri valry in the com peti tion field, he has presented several trophies for annual competition. To the Corps of which he was Chief Superintendent he presented a cup which is competed for annually by teams from each Division in the Corps, he also presented to the district the Guards' Shield which is held for one year by the sma.rtest guard doing dut; at the annual District Camp he was also instrumental in supplying the cup which is awarded for the best kept and cleanest lines in camp during the annual training.

Many and various too have been the handsome and useful giits which the rev. gentleman has presented to the District to assist in making the annual camp a success, and to add to the comfort of those attending. The admirable camp kitchen which was used at Broughton Park this year for the first time was his gift and both the officers and men are sincerely appreciative of his generous and kindly forethought.

In his own immediate neighbourho<O)d of Foleshill and Longford the Rev. Dore Rudgard is determined that every ambulance detail shall be up-to -date, and the ambulance wagon for use in case of a ccident or illness was one of his gifts.

In the Corps which was founded by his untiring energy and zeal he is immensely popular, and n eedless to say the men under his command were deeply sorry to lose him J.S their chief. They recognise, however, that after the grand \york he has accomplished he was entitled to promotion, and are proud to know that he has attained Staff rank. Residing in their midst and at all times willing to aid the progress of the work, he will it is certain continue to take a paternal interest in their welfare and will never begrudge the time or trouble it may entail.

The Clergyman, however, whose portrait appears in our gallery this month has shown his interest and sympathy in even a more marked and convincing manner, inasmuch as he is an enrolled member of the S.J.A.B.

The Rev. Dore Rudgard was educated first at Harrow, proceeding afterwards to Christ College, Oxford, where he took his degree as a Master of Arts. In 1885 he took clerical charge of Longford, and in 1904 he was appointed by the Lord Chancellor to the living of Foleshill with Longford.

Taking his first certificate in 1902 he at once diSplayed a keen and active interest ambulance wor.k an? took a prominent part in its promotIOn and extension 111 the district in which he resides.

In connection with Brigade work the reverend gentleman has been the means of the formation of several Divisions in the No. 3 District: commencing with the Foleshill and Longford Division of which he was. Superintendent, he gradually fo.rmed DlVlslOns. in the neigh bourhood, and these ultimately bell1g formed into the Warwickshire North-East Corps, the Rev. Dare Rudgard was appointed the first Cl?ief Superintendent. That his work was valued and apprecIated by the Staff of

The Territorial Forces find in the reverend gentleman one who has its best interests at heart, this is shown by his holding the appointment of chaplain to the 7th Ba tt. Royal Warwickshire He is also a member of the Warwickshire County Council, and in spite of the many calls upon his little leisure he is at all times ready to discharge any duties which the position demands.

From the very brief account which we are able to give of the reverend gentleman S career and services, our readers will have realised that he never spares himself in his desire to benefit his fellows; he is a generous and largehearted man, ever rcady to dispense hospitality or do anything that lies within his power to brighten the lives of those around him. It is sometimes said that parsons know more about books than they do about men. This charge could not be laid at the door of the subject of our sketch. He possesses a and varied knowledge of both and his life work is an evidence th a t to him, at least, the s'tudY of the needs and aspirations of the latter is the more interesting.

Motor ambulances are to form a speciality of construction by Straker & Squire, Ltd., Nelson-square, Blackfriars-road, London, S. E.

An advertisement in this Journal is the cheapest traveller you can have.

-FIRST

Fahy's Tandem Cycle Ambulance.

MESSRS. FAHY BROTHERS, cycle and motor engineers, of Morcambe, have recently introduced on the market a cycle tandem ambulance of which we give an illustration. The construction of the ambulance is quite simple consisting as it does of a Tandem Cycle with a permanent side attachment which rests on parallel wheels, to this is affixed a platform to hold a full-sized stretcher, any vibration being fully counteracted by the use of spiral springs and 2-inch tyres. The steering of the ambulance is exactly the same as that of an ordinary cycle, the two front wheels being connected with a steering rod.

At the r equest of the War Office Authorities Messrs. Fahy have sent one of their machines to Aldershot with a view to its being tested to see if it is suitable for service in his Majesty's Forces, and during the visit of their Majesties the King and Queen the ambulance was submitted for their inspection.

The us e of the ambulance is recommended in connection with Ambulance Brigades, Railway Companies, and by the Police. We think it should also prove of service in large manufacturing works especially where they are situated some distance from Hospital.

The manufacturers will be pleased to submit one fur trial by intending purchasers and will gladly give any further information concern in g it.

The American National Red Cross.

I N the article on th e above, which appeared in the June number of FIRST AID, we intimated with a view to drawing closer th e bands of friendshi p between the am bulance workers in this country and those of the U niled States, we proposed from time to time to chronicle the doing of the latter for the mformation of our English read ers, and it will, we are sure, be gratifying to those of them who, like oursel ves, see in the propagation of first aid work a great factor in the cause of international peace to learn that our American kinsmen are keenly appreciative of our desire to foster and encourage this feeling of en camaradie.

In a letter received just recently from Mr. Charles W. Hurd, the energetic and enthusiastic State Field Agent, of the New York State Branch of the American National Red Cross, the writer says :-

"I believe with you, that this Red Cross and First Aid work should be one of the greatest mediums for the promotion of friendship between all nations. Gencrous competition in play and spurt, no doubt, is productive of the highest ideals which youth can conceive, but these and ideals, it seems to me, must give way 111 adult to the fraternity of social service, and the Ideals sp.rll1glOg from that. I believe it is guing to be perfectly pOSSible to develop first aid drills exercises and rituals, which will be as ficlal and lOtellectual, and as morally stimulating as the best of our sport."

This endor.sement of our views is very g ratifying and WIll serve as a stimulus to encourage us to still further efforts. With the object of utilising the services of" first aiders " in time of peace or in preparation for national emergency the American Red Cross has founded

TIlE GRAND LEGION OF THE RED CROSS, to which we briefly alluded last month, the objects of

which are very similar to those set out for our own St. John Ambulance Brigade, and they may be b:-iefly summarised as follows :-

To help the sick and injured when physicians are not at hand, and also to assist the latter

To help care for those sick or injured in great public celebrations.

In time of war to serve under the Army Medical Department in field, hospital and camp.

To spread a knowledge of simple hygiene and assist the struggle against tu berculosis.

To teach ordinary care and forethought for the prevention of accidents.

To teach what to do in moments of danger to prevent injury or loss of life, as in panics and street rushes.

To help esta blish a higher regard for human life.

The Grand Legion is made up of four or more legions. Each legion has four relief columns. Each column has four detachments, and each detachment four squads. The column has 64 men and 24 officers; the legion 256 men and 104 officers. A legion is commanded by a director-inchief, the column by a director. Both director and director-in-chief must be physicians.

Each column in time of peace will ultimately have an auxiliary relief corps of women.

In an appeal asking young men to enrol, the promoters ur ge that it offers an opportunity for social service of an attractive and chivalrous kind, in fellowship with active men of high standard; that this is true the results of the teaching and training in our own ambulance service amply demonstrate. Although the Grand Legion is as yet but in its infancy, as we may say, in some districts the National Cros.s has aJre.ady actively engaged in putting lOto practIce the servIce laId down in the second paragraph of the objects of the Grand Legion. In Texas, for instance, on the occasion of the holding of the annual State Fair, at Dallas, the Branch established a valuable adjunct to the Fair Grounds in the form of a modern up-to-date emergency hospital. The hospital was arranged and equipped like a military field hospital, with a spacious reception room, an o perating room fitted up with modern appliances, and had separate wards for men and women, also. dispensary equipped with bandages, dressings, medlcll1.es, &c., for emergency cases. A corps of physicians and traIned nurses were on duty the whole time. The emergency hospital was visited by Governor Campbell who was highly pleased with the excellent work of the Red Cross at the Fair Grounds.

In Buffalo, during the celebration of "Old Home Week," the Health Department of the City, under the capable direction of the Commissioner (Dr. Ernest Wende) made preparations in case of emergency. The Sub-Division of the Red Cross, under the presidency of Dr. Roswell Park, had also planned relief work. The two plans were combined and the Health Department carried out the scheme under the supervision of Dr. Roswell Park.

The most important feature of the work was the maintenance of relief stations day and night through the week. Two of these were in vacant stores--fronting on main streets, and two were in tents; two other emergency tents followed the crowds. Each Station was furnished with a small surgery, and had telephonic communication with the hospitals. Seventy physicians and fifty nurses volu?teered their services, the hospitals in many cases spanng the latter.

Although the weather was cool, there were, nevertheless, many cases of fainting and collapse from exhaustion.

On the day of the dedication of the McKinley monument,

August, I g08.

-FIRST

the emergency tent pitched near at hand had a dozen cases at one time-three being of a very serious nature. The Am bulance Service was in charge of Dr. F. E. Fronczak (another of the physicians attached to the Health Department of the City). A first aid department, made up of members of the German Young Men's Christian Association, in charge of Dr. A. E. Sohmer patrolled the line of parade each day on the look -out for cases of exhaustion and fainting. In addition to this two hundred boys, wearing small red cross brassards, served water each day to those in the parade. These lads were under the direction of the Supervisor of the City Playgrounds. It was a commencem ent but its record showed the need of such organization.

We have pleasure in presenting a portrait group of a detachment of the Grand Legion on duty. Mr. Hurd, who sends it, states that the notice for duty was short, and the uniforms for all the men could not be obtained in time,

AI D.Visit of French Fire Brigades.

T.HE members of the French Fire Brigades (Sapeurs Pompiers) who are about to visit this country will leave France on Sunday, August 30th. They will be received on arrival at Dover by the Worshipful the mayor (Walter Emden Chevalier a la Legion d'Honneur, Member of Honour of the French Federation )

An pr<?gramme has been arranged for them dunng then stay 10 thlS country, which will include official visits to the Franco-British Exhibition, Brighton, Windsor, Bradford ani Leeds. It is hoped that a large number of ladies will accompany the party.

'!' e are satisfi ed that everything will be done by their Enghsh comrades to render th e visit to this country enjoyable; and when we say that 1VIr. Charles Kusel, who has

A DETA CHMENT OF THE FIRST LEGION OF THE GRAND LEGION (AIIIERICAN NATIO NAL RED CROSS) ON DuTY.

nor are these absolutely correct, but it will give some idea of what is being aimed at. We are gratified to learn that our enthusiastic countryman Lieut.-Colonel Twiss, who is in the States on a visit, called on Mr. Hurd who greatly appreciated the compliment. Colonel Twiss was to attend a meeting of some of the officers of the Grand Legion with a view to telling them something about the work in England. Upon his return home we hope he will favour our readers with a descriptive article in our columns, detailing his experiences and expressing his views as regards the future of the work in the States.

A meeting of the National Lifeboat Institution was held on the 15th inst. Awards amounting to '£265 were granted for services rendered by lifeboats during the past month.

for so many years interested himself in drawing nearer the bonds of friendship that unite the fire services of the two countries, has th e arrangements in hand, our readers may rest assured that nothing will be ove rlook ed which might serve to enhance the pleasure of th e visit.

'Ve do not know what arrangements have been made for their reception on arrival in London, but as a particular mark of honour, and to still further demonstrate the spirit of elZteute cordiale now existing we should like to see a representative guard of honour posted at the railway station on their arrival, composed of members of the London Fire Brigade, the London Salvage Corps, Volunteer Fire Brigades and members of the London Private Fire Brigades. It is customary to pay such compliments to British firemen when arriving in France, and it undoubtedly adds to the warmth of the welcome. W e trust some steps may be taken to give effect to the suggestion.

N.F.B.U. Cam p a t Scarbo ro ugh.

THE ambulance arrangements wert; quite up to the standard of all the other excellent plans made to ensure a successful camp, and withstood well throughout every test to which they were put.

The historic old castle has seen many vanetles of armed and uniformed men beneath its ramparts, and within its protecting keep, but doubtless throughout its centuries of existence it has never looked down from Its craggy heights upon so picturesque and peaceful an army as that of Britain's Fire Fighter's in camp. . .

The old" Red Barracks," so well known to the vISItor to Scarborough, perched on the sky-line of the Castle Hill, was put to a new use in being turned into the ambulance hospital.

Surgeon-Major Maitland Coffin was the chIef am bulance officer, and received indispensable assistance from his staff-Dr. Greene (Norwich), Surgeon Vaughan Bateson (Bradford), and the energetic am bulance officers A. W. Slater (London), and E. \Y. Tabor (Reading).

The visits from Dr. Heald and Dr. Murray were also frequent and welcome.

The hospital had been well arranged and was well fitted; the beds were kept aired, and fires ensured a plentiful supply of hot water being always ready, the Hospital Orderly being most efficient and attentive to his duties.

The usual number of minor medical and surgical cases consequent on a camp and competitions of a keen nature kept the staff constantly on duty. Fortunately there were but few cases of a serious nature, but they were attended to with fire-brigade like promptitude and skill. One of

AI D.- A u g u st, 19 0 8. and is progressing favourab ly. expressed h imsel f more than repaid for the rudeness of his welcome to the camp by the kindness and care he received at the hands of t he am bulance staff.

Capt. H. Young, of East Grins t ead, also gave the department some work in connection with the popular "Camp Lady "

The ambulance competitions were keenly contested, Brierley Hill again proving the winners of the Challenge Cup.

It is to be hoped, however, that at the next camp there will be more members of the Union who have qua ified for the N.F.B.U Ambulance Badge, as th is branch of knowledge is one which is essential to every fireman and officer who desires to be a model fireman, who should carry a life-escape in his head, as well as a life-line at his waist .

DURBAN.-On June 22nd, the fire brigade of tqis tOWll held a grand fire brigade demonstration, the concluding idea on the programme being a house on fire scene, which included the rescue of three children from the top floor of a burning building. The two little sons of the Chief Officer (Mr. Lambert), accompanied by the little son of the 2nd Officer (Mr. Scott), were sent up to the top floor, several firemen being on the roof. A quaf!tity of rubbish soaked in petroleum had been placed in posJtlOn below ready to be ignited at a given signal, which it was arranged should be the firing of a rocket.

The programme

SCARRBOROUGH CAMP

OFF ICERS OF THE AMBULANCE DEPARTMENT, N.F.B.U. a most unfortunate variety happened to a mem ber of the Horwich Brigade, who, in jumping off the engine with two lengths of hose on his shoulder, dislocated the internal lateral cartilage of his knee joint which laid him up for the rest of the camp, with the possibility of h;lving to face an operation to bring about a cure in thE; future. He bore his ill-luck in an admirable manner, and a handsome subscription was got up for him by the officers in camp

The services of this department were most regrettably required also for a guest, Capt. Jas. Boyce, who came to represent his battery (the 3rd Northumbrian R.F.A.), and who, when handing a letter from Col. Milburn to Camp Commandant Clulee, caught his spurs on a rope and fell heavily to the ground, sustaining a dis l ocation of the ulna and radius backwards. He at once received attention from Major Coffin and Surgeon Bateson, who reduced the dislocation, and after being detained in hospital for a short time was taken to his home o n the turbine mo t or e n gine,

Annual Display Fire

of the " Clarni c o " Brigade .

" IT is undo u btedly the finest brigade of its kind in the world." S u ch was the r emark I heard passed from a gentleman of high authority in the fire brigade world at

A l D.-

The house was fired electrically from the platform, and in a few seconds the automatic alarm was ringing. Chemical engines were got to work, quickly followed by hydrants, but owing to the increasing fierceness of the fire, which, bythe-way, gave off plenty of thick black smoke, the steam fire engine was requisitioned, and very soon a dozen powerful jets were being directed upon the house. The fire was speedily extinguished and the brigade withdrew, receiving much applause from the visitors.

An ambulance display followed, in which four cases were treated by the firm's nurses, and an ambulance tent was quickly erected by the brigade. The patients were carefully conveyed to the tent, and the Belgian and other officers present were invited to inspect the work. This they did, and expressed their approval of everything that had been done. The terminating event was a march past in true military fashion, and a general salute by the whole brigade.

Col. Fox spoke a few words, in which he praised them for their smartness and businesslike appearance. He said he had often been amongst them, and he found that they improved every time he saw them.

A speech was also delivered in French by one of the the Belgian officers, after which a very pleasing and unexpected incident occurred.

Commandant de Gunot delivered a speech in English, in which he thanked the brigade for their excellent display, and recalled the time when the" Clarnico" Brigade visited Belgium, a time which they had not forgotten. He then announced that the Belgian Order of Merit had been presented to the .officers of the

brigade, who were then called up in turn and the order was pinned to their tunics.

the close of the "Clamico" Fire Brigade's annual inspection and display, which took place on Saturday, July 25th, at the firm's large works at Hackney Wick.

included a display by seamen from H.M S. " Hercules" with their field guns. This immediately preceded the house on fire scene, and u nfortunately the firing

of one of the guns was apparently mistaken for the sig n al to start the fire, before the life-saving apparatus could be brought 111tO requisition the whole structure was in The firemen, it is said, succeeded 111 theIr escape by sliding down a rope, but the th ree chIldren lost their lives; two sustaining fatal injuries by jumping to the ground and the third being burnt to death. There was a large concourse of spectators present, who at first did not appear to realise the extent of the cragedy ; when h owever, the full extent of the disaster was known the pai n ful scenes wh ich followed were heartrending.

The annual competitions of the F u r n ess Ambulance Centre were held on the 18th inst at F u rness Abbey. Result :-Barrow Team, I; Mi ll om, 2; Moo r e Row 3· The Duke of Devonshire was amo n gs t th e spectator s.

I t was a glorious afternoon, and the large ground reserved for the purpose was gaily decorated for the occasion. The usual large stand for the work people was absent this year, but in its place was a long covered platform draped with the English and Belgian flags. I n the centre of the platform could be seen several officers of the Belgian Federation of Sapeurs Porn piers, who had honoured the brigade with a visit. Lieut.-Col. Fox was with them, and one also noticed such well-known men as Mr. Gamble (2nd officer of the London Fire Brigacie), Hon. Capt. Dyson, Surgeon-Major Maitland Coffin, Major Windus, Mr. Kusel, Capt. Miller, Capt. Dane (Croydon), and other officers.

The disp lay started wi t h a drill on the various fire escapes possessed by the brigade, in which dummies were rescued from the smart little villa which had been erected at one end of the ground. Vario u s other exhibitions followed, including a chemical fire extinguisher display, pompier ladder drills, &c, The chief event on the programme, however, was t h e " ho u se on fire" scene, in which t he wh o le of the brigade took part.

The proceedings closed with another general salute, in which the Belgian and English National Anthems were played by the splendid band of the firm, under the d1rection of Mr. G. Bass, and which had enlivened the proceedings with various well rendered selections during the afternoon.

LIEUT.-COL Fox ADDRESSING THE PARADE AT TIlE CONCLU SION OF

THE INSPECTION. IN THE Il\1l\IEDIATE REAR ARE THE OFFICERS OF THE BELGIUM FEDERATION.

AMBULANCE DISPLAY BY "CLARNICO" NURSES AND MEN FIRE BRIGADE. OF THE

-F I RST

During the proce e dings Col. Fox the Long Service Medal of the N.F.B.U. to the men.:Firemen Prince, Newstead, Storey, Saunders, ElIlOtt, Johnson, Woods, Benjamin and Keen, and L.-Corp. Lovett.

Subsequently Capt. Horn en.tertained a party to dmner at the Great Eastern Hotel, Liverpool -street. .After the cloth had be en cleared, Capt. Horn, who presIded, submitted the toasts of "His Majesty King Edward VII , and "His Majesty the King of the Belgians." Other toasts were "The Visitors," "The Directors of Messrs. Clark, Nickolls and Coombs," and" The

An excellent programme of vocal and mstrumental music interspersed the several speeches.

During the evening, Commandant de Gunot, on of the Federation Royale des Corps des de Belgique, decorated Capt. G. M wIth InSlgma of the Federation, and presented hI m wIth the Diploma of Honorary Membership.

On Sunday, Capt. Horn took his guests to Wmdsor by train and thence by launch up the river to Cookham, where lunch was served. R e turning to Windsor, the party made a tour of the Castle and then took train back to London.

On Monday, accompanied by Capt. Horn, the party made a tour of the sights of London in a well-appointed brake. Amongst other plac es visited were the Headquarters of the London Fire Brigade and of the London Salvage Corps.

The Belgian officers entrained for home by the 9 p. m. from Cannoll·street, one and all expressing themselves delighted with their visit, and inviting all their English friends to visit the Brussels Exhibition in 1910.

AI D.- August, 19 0 8.

Th e Status of th e St. John Ambulance Brigade.

THE following letter appeared in our contemporary the Britislz Medical Journal. The question raised by the writer is a pertinent one, and one to which we have ourselves frequently drawn attent.ion. Undoubtedly the authorities are desirous of enrolhng the men of the Bngade as a supplement to the Royal Army Corps, in of emergency, it is only fan they shou ld give every factl lty and some financial assistance to enable the mem bers to become more efficient during time of peace. We hope that the several Deputy Commissioners will press this suggestion home in the interests of the units under their command :-

SJR,- Two papers are do.wn to be at the meetino- of the British Medical ASSOCiation, one by the diStinguished Chief Commissioner .of the Brigad.e, the other by Colonel Twiss. Those papers will be of great mterest to many medical men throughout the country who take an interest in am bulance work.

We are in no way responsible )01' the opinions expressed, or the statements made, by Correspondents_-EDITORS.

FIRE DRILL IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS.

A I D.- 3

defama tory statement respecting the attitude of the railway ambulance man toward s an injured comrade, implying as it does that the ambulance man is a most inhuman being.

A railway ambulance man, as soon as he IS known as such on the railway, has to play and act the part of a man; the numerous calls for his servi c es compels this,and in many cases he has to bring all his comnJon sense to bear upon the case he is called upon to attend to.

Now regarding the suggestion as to the training of men to take up this ambulance work, it is, of course, essential that there should be centres, where le ctures could be held, with pract ices in bandaging and trainin g in the removal of the si ck and injured; for without practice no man can remain effi ci ent in first aid work.

As to the formation of a committee, feel that other individuals should have the opportunity to serve, irrespec tive of the rank they hold.

National Fire Brigades Uni o n.

N ORTH WALES DISTRICT.-The District Honorary Secretary, Lieut. J. O. Huges, Rhuddlan, has just secured the fifth trophy for this district, namely, The Law Union and Crown Insurance Company ' s Cup for the . Am bulance Department.

The cup has been designed, modelled, and manufactured by that well-known firm, ME.ssrs. Elkington, Ltd., Cheapside, London. The upper portion is a model of " J usti se " holding the Balance in one hand and the Sword in the other.

Altogether it is a beautiful piece of workmanship, standing on an ebony base with a number of shields, and being over two feet high it must have cost a very large sum.

We understand that Lieut. Hughes has also been promised another challenge trophy next year, and it is doubtful whether another district in the Union has such a valuable array of trophies as the North Wales district. It might be pointed out that when Lieut. H ugbes became secret::try, not a single competition was in existence, much less a trophy, and the value of all the latter must be considerably over £600.

Under the St. John Ambulance As.sociatio.n lectures given aud examinations held, on which a man I_S eligible to join the Brigade. After passll1g" three such examInations at yearly intervals a pnvate IS entitled to hiS medallion. He also has the opportunity of gaining the nursing certificate after lectures and examination. A private in the brigade with the medallion and nursing- certificate is a valuable unit whose training can only be some experience. o.f hospital training and camp life PrelI.mll1ary. h?spltal could easily be arranged, espeCially m hospltal.s by n:any officers who, like myself, are connected with local mstltutl?ns. This would obviate absen ce from home, as at present entailed in the Military Home Hospital Resen-e. The question of camp training is more difficult. The great I?rivates in the brigade are working men who support theIr diVIsIons by contributions out of their own pockets supplemented by money obtained from the public by appeals or other more or less undignified means. Thus the further expense of the necessary camp training is just what most men cannot afford, and only a very small percentage can think of going into. ambulance camps as now held. The latest Ambulance Brigade order states definitely that the brigade supplements the regular army. This being so, it surely is too much to expect these men to perfect their training out of their own pockets. Camps provIded by the Government for tr.aining efficient of the Ambulance Brigade would, m the exent of mobilIzatIOn, result in a larrre number of efficient men being at the disposal of the countr/'either for the bearer companies of the army or the military hospitals at horne or abroad.

It is to be hoped that the papers y) be read at Sheffield will urge this view on the army authontles.-I am, etc., M.D F.R.C.S.E., Honorary Surgeon and Superintendent, St. John Ambulance Brigade.

July 18th, 1908.

-----. --. -------

MIDLAND. - In connection with the recent examination held at the Poplar and Victoria Docks Class Room, Mr. Irving (goods !:l.gent), on July 17th, presented 12 bronze medallions and IS enamelled badges and vouchers t o successful candidates. It is evident from this that enthusiasm in ambulance work is well maintained at the Dock Stations It is of interest to mention that several of the recipients have received marks of appreciation from headqua r ters for the skilful way in which injured persons have been treated, and at the presentation those mem bers who had not passed the third examination were exhorted and encouraged to do so A vote of thanks was passed to Mr. H. J. Carter, the secretary of the classes, for his varied efforts in assisting to bring about such a successfu issuE".

DEAR SIR,-Your correspondent who writes in your July number under the n om de plume of " Fire Drill )) is, I should say, an alarmist ofa very extreme character. As one who knowssomething about the subject, I maintain that your contention is correct, and that the" fire drill" in our schools is so thorough and practical that I think we may safely assume that such a disaster as that which occurred in America is not at all probable. (, Fire Drill)) can only theorise as to what mig-It t occur, but I could point to dozens of instances where after the alarm of fire-a real one-the building has been cleared in an incredibly short space of time. Is" Fire Drill)) aware that the school buildings are inspected from time to time to ensure that all due precautions are taken, if not I would refer him to the interim report of the Building Sub-Committee of the L.C.c. Education Committee, wherein he will see that the Sub-Committee have visited eighty-six schools, and that where the exits were not considered satisfactory _ remedial measures were ordered to be taken.

Various alterations and improvements considered necessary to ensure the safety of the schoolars were san ctioned, a n d in most of th e sch oo ls £;z qU CS ft'Oll th e wo r/;: h a d alrea dy bee n co mpleted.

I t is further stated that the use of the ordinary school bell for the purpose of fire alarm does not meet with the full approval of the Committee, and the Norwegian flag horn, or in some cases a whistle, is being substituted. In certain schools the provision of outside iron emergency staircases is proposed and tenders are now being obtained for the execution of the work. It is found that the children are able to leave the schools and assemble in the play-grounds in periods varying from less than minute to zt minutes.

It is the opinion of the Sub-Committee that some of the fire regulations should be revised, and that fire drill should be taken more systematically and mere frequently. I t is also under consideration to provide gates to the play-grounds, sufficiently wide to allow of the passage of fire escapes in all cases.

From the above, "Fire Drill )) will see that the authorities are fully alive to their responsibilities in the matter, and he may rest assured that all is being done to render it well nigh impossible for a calamity such as occurrecl across the" herring pond)) to happen in this country.-Yours faithfully, A. C. MYERS.

THE S.J.A.B. AND THE TERRITORIAL FORCES.

SIR,--Under the above beading, " !E sthesiometer, )) in your issue dated July, 1908, having stated his case, asks "\\That is the proper course to pursue ?))-and the answer is obvious. He should communicate with the headquarters of the district to which he belongs-vide General Regulations, dated June 1st, T908, paragraph 26.-Yours faithfully, A, J. HELl\{ MONTAGUE, Surgeon-Capt. 8th Dattn. Notts and Derby Regt. Hon. Surg. Supt. Worksop Division, S.J A. B.

RAILWAY AMBULANCE.

SIR,-I have read with surprise the paper read by James W. Croston, F.G.S., Manchester, before the International First Aiel Congress, Frankfort. To my mind it contains a most

The whole crux: of the question is "time for practice," provision of passes to those who travel to such centre for the purpose of drill, or to lectures-for every penny taken from a man s wage is to hiin a serious item. All le ctures, whi c h should be held at several centres at various times a day, s hould be open to an unlimited number of ra ilw ay men at one time, and the fee paid by candidates, and the money e xpended for books, should be refunded to ea ch su ccessful candidate. The t ime , place and hour of duty should be noted of those su cc essful, and then arrangements should be made so that when on duty they might be relieved for practice; it should not be left to the candidate to have to ask and a r range for such, for indire ctly he has to suffer for being an arr.bulance man, as the various calls upon his time which take him from his work are apt to incur the displeasure of his super ior, who has to c over h is work, many times doing it himself, thus when the opportunit y comes for promotion , he is not re commended on a c count of these fa cts.

Upon the formation of a c orps it is su ggested as a means of encouragement that a brief histor y and re cord of the codes of St. John should be given; that those p resent be urged to discourage the use of alcohol and filth, and g ive help where needed.

Cleanl iness IS stron g ly urg ed and prO\-ed to be essential in first aid, but I am afraid if we br ing cant and teetotalism into our syllabus tha t we shall kill honorary work in the railway ambulance service. I say this with all due respec t as a youn g Christian man, a teetot aler, and an ardent first aid worker.

To attach the corps to the R.A.M.C., with all its bright outlook of a fortnight 's training in hospital as orderlies and dressers or even the chance of becoming a compounder, would strike the death blow to the ma ority of married men in the S.J.A.B.

Let us by all means have first a id , where we have to make our splints and other fi.rst aid from the things around us; let there be no plckmg or choosll1g of t he men, for by competitions and the exams. for the two certificates and the medallion, the best man should certall1ly come out on top.

As regards the equipment, no. station should be witho.ut a first aid box, central and large statIOns W thout a wheeled litter. At the centre there should always be a supply of stretchers, first aid boxes, and list of ambulan ce men showing time and place of duty.

Referring to the keeping of fitted hospItal trams, I feel that in the hour of real need It would be found that they would hinder speedy loading and limit the sent off one time. On receipt of an intimation of an aCCl.dent those m authority at the chief station call upon a.Il the to tra\'eJ down to the scene of the aCCident by speCial train. I n this train , rugs, pillows, blankets, sheets, ropes, boar9s, hot water bottles (if it is the time of the year when they 10 etc., are put in. Doctors, ?fficials, etc.! trave l by thiS tram, which is speedily converted mto an hospItal tram; sileets, rugs and boards are swung up as hammo c ks, anc! it is found that for this class of practical first aid work the g uard s van IS the most suitable. This has been proved on one or two occasions by Mr. Sam Osborn , F.R.C.S., in connecti?n with the practical sham rai.lway accidents condu cted under hIS control at King's Cross StatIOn.

0, I maintain that when the railway compa.mes gIve more attention to the ambulance man, and make It pOSSible f?r him to attend practices, public duties, etc., then the men will

take this work up. The ge neral run of men do not ask or look for remuneration, other than out of pocket expenses.

I feel that the provision of ambulance trains in. case of invasion should be the work of the Government, and lt should not be left to a body o f private individuals, such as a railway co mpany, to provide them. -Yours faithfully, J. J. ASCOTT. 6 r, Park-road, Crouch End.

Mr. Terry, hon. secretary M e tropolitan Railway Centre, has forwarded lJS a copy of the rules and standing ambulance arrangements in force on that Company's system. By it we see that some of the suggestions made by Mr. Croston are already adopted by the Metropolitan Company.

Fees.-A payment of o ne shilling will be made by each candidate attending a course of le c tures for the first time, and he will be supplied with text book and triangular bandage. Th e subscription will be returned to each membc:r submitting himself for examination.

Practices.-Classe s for practice are held at Edgware-

road, N easden a n d Uxbridge, a n d hol ders of first aid certificates and other awards of the St. John Ambu lance Association are eligible to attend At least one pract ice i n each month should be attended apart from competition practice. Members attending a minimum of twelve monthly practices annually, and submitting themselves for progressive examination, will be ent itled to a day's special leave with pay during tbe followi n g year, on a date to be suhject to t he convenience of the Metropolitan Railway Company. We have received o t her communications on this subject, but the space at our disposal will not admit of t heir insertion this month.-ED F.A.

Recently William Bowen, a caretaker, of Dartmoorstreet, North Kensington, was engaged in making some experiments with a patent fire extinguisher. A fire had been kindled in the rear of the galleric:s, and he was holding the extinguisher when it sudden ly exploded, inflicting fatal injuries.

Rescue Apparatus for Mines, &C.

The ONLY one of MAKE on the The Appa r atu s is the ONLY ONE o n the Ma rk e t th at r eceived UNIFORMLY # GOOD MARKS fr om t h e ROYAL COMMISSION ON MINES. (See Commission 's R epo rt )

Makers also of OXYGEN REVIVING TRUNKS, SMOKE HELMETS, RESPIRATORS , &c.

As it is the wi sh and desire of the Proprietors to make this Journal as instruc ive and entertaining as possible, correspondents in all parts of the country are asked to give it a ll the help they can. Superintendents of Corps and Officers of Divisions of the St. J ohn Ambulance Brigade, Officers of the Royal Army Medical Corps (Volunteers); the Volunteer Ambulance S chool of In struct ion, and Chief Officers of Fire Brigades will, it is hoped, do their best to make it known amongst the members of their re spective organisations, and will also send for publication their official news and notices Suggest tions are invited for Prize Competitions and other matters which will advance the interest of the Journal.

We particularly desire to ask our correspondents to be brief and to the point in any communications they may send us for publication.

Correspondents sending in photos are urgently requested to state on the back of the same the name of the individu a l or the Corps or Brigade , and give also the name and address of the sender.

We beg to advise our readers th at w e do n ot pay fo r photographs or copy sent, unless previously agreed upon in writing.

Central Executive Committee had any other alternative but to retain them on its register j but, with the advent of a purely Scottish Association, there was no further need for the English Association to extend its area of operations in the sister kingdom, and we believe we are correct in saying that the St. John Executive has now for some years past adopted this line of action, and has ceased active operations in the Scotish area.

Of course, as we have pointed out in our opening remarks, it was the absence of any recognised ambulance organisation in Scotland which first led to the introduction of the St. John Association. There was a good field for its work, the call was made for its assistance, and the St. John Executive responded to it; practically, they were first in the field.

of CO}/I1ILe,'ce.

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AI.I applicants seen, without first having the trouble or procunng a Governor's letter, each week day at 2 p.m.

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J UST PUBLISHED. ENTERED

Aids to Memory

First Aid Students.

"

"The blgh water mark in books of its kind."

"All our members have a copy, and are delighted with same."

ED ITO RIAL.

" First A id" is publis h ed on t h e 20th of the month. The Amb ul ance Certificate.

THE mutual agreement which has been arrived at between the Executive Committee of the St. John Ambulance Association and that of the St Andrew's Am bulance Association will, we are sure, gIve satisfaction to all of those who have the best interests of the Am bulance cause at heart.

In the early days of the movement, pnor to the formation of the St. Andrew's Association, classes were started in Scotlancl by the ambulance department of the Order of St. John, in exactly the same way as they were In other parts of the United Kingdom, mainly in response to appeals from residents in the district who, taking an interest in the work, desired to promote classes for the spread of its knowledge. Whether it would have been a graceful act, on the part of the English organisation, to have volunta r ily abandoned their sphere of action within the Scottish border on the formation of the St. Andrew's Ambulance Association we are not prepared to say. We believe, however, that there were two or three ambulance centr es formed in the early days, which strongly desired to retain their continuity of service under the Cross of St. John, and in view of this sentiment we do not see that the

The need for the presence of the St. Andrew's Association on this side of the border was, however, never real, and its English centres ha\'e invariably been formed at the reg uest of dissatisfied or rejected supporters of the sister Association. We have on previous occasions adversely criticised this line of action, and in view of this amicable arrangement do not propose to re-open the subject. We are pleased, intensely pleased, to think that a truce, honourable alike, we feel sure, to both parties, has been arrived at, and we have every belief that both Associations will now in their respective spheres work with but one aim in view-how best to still further promote the advancement of the ambulance movement.

We have discussed somewhat fully the present position of the two recognised ambulance associations within the United Kingdom, and we have done so with a purpose we trust that the present decision to arrive at a workiug agreement will enhance the reputation and extend the powers of both organisations. Both are in possession of a Royal Charter of Incorporation, and both may, therefore, be termed National. In this sense the certificate of either should have a national significance, and its possession should be the recognised authority to entitle the holder to pose as a civilian ambulance man, or woman, in any part of His Majesty's Dominions.

Doubtless many of our readers will exclaim, "But this is already understood!" They are not, however, perhaps,

-FIRST

aware of the fact that within His Majesty's Dominions there are one or two small s'.:!ctions of individuals who, ignoring the fact that His Majesty is the Soverign Heau and Patron of the Am bulance Department of the Order of St. John, have constituted themselves into an ambulance body, and that they issue certificates and medallions, which are practically a plagiarism of those issued by the recogniseo ambulance associations of this country.

We are willing to admit that the instruction g iv en under the auspices of these non-recognised bodies is on the same lines, and is, we believe, as thorough as that laid down by the syllabus of the St. John and St. Andrew's Associations, and, furthermore, that no pupil is awarded the certIficate unless he or she has fully satisfied the Examiner as to his or her efficiency. The medical gentlemen who undertake the role of lecturers or ex, aminers to their classes are, we feel sure, above reproachand doubtless held in high esteem within the localities in which they practice. We would, however, ask these gentlemen what view they would take of a medical practitioner presuming to practice within their locality who was only possessed of a qualification which was not recognised by the medical authorities?

This line of argument may be r egarded as somewhat far-fetched but after all it is but fair criticism of a system which we consider requires condemnation. Of what value is this so-called certificate outside the area within which it is issued? N{)ne, absolutely none. It would be regarded with a species of contempt by anyone possessing the recognis ed national ambulance certificate. Is it not therefore time that so grotesque a farce were abandoned, and the issuing of these non-recognised certificates by irresponsible bodies, if not actually prohibited, at least be discountenanced by the medical associations of this country?

The "Cantor=Hess" Stretcher.

THIS stretcher is undoubtedly one of the best on the market. Although so light-its weight being only I8Ibs.it is very strong, and, unlike most stretchers, the parts are interchangeable, this applies more particularly to the folding traverse bars. When closed it occupi:!s but little space, and should certainly find room in the box of a fire engine; while on account of its lightness it is the id eal stretcher for boys brigades. Since it was first placed on the market it has steadily grown in public favour, and many corps and divisions of the St. John Ambulance Brigade have one or more in active use. The London County Council have also adopted it, and we should think colliery owners would find it a useful stretcher to have in the workings of their mines. The handles are of bamboo, and the canvas can be easily taken off, washed and replaced. The manufacturers are Messrs. Samuel Hess and Son, Bethnal Green-road, London, E.

Visit of Me:nbers of the French Federation des Sapeurs = Pompiers.

IT seems to be agreed on all hands that the party uf French officers who visited this country from August 31st until September 6th have no cause to regret their sojourn here and the opportunity it afforded of renewing acquaintance with their English c07ifreres. The primary object of the visit was to inspect several of the principal FIre Brigade Stations in this country with a view of seeing if any improvements existed on French appliances. Not unnaturally was their time solely devoted to this purpose, nor perhaps was it neglected, but a programme formulated by Mr. C. Kusel (representative of tbe Federation in England) had to be adhered to, and the magnitude of which kept them occupied from their arrival on English soil until their departure.

Arriving at Dover on August 31St, the party, which consisted of Monsieur Guesnet, president of the Federation, Capts. Leon, of Abbeville; Robineau, of Checy; Lieuts. Nicolle, of Hirson; and Lebeuf, of Vrignes au Bois, were received by the Mayor (Mr. W. Emden), and amongst those on the pier waiting for them was Baron de Belabre (French Consul for Kent). They were conducted around the Harbour works on a tour of inspection in a Sleam launch, and after landing at the Prince of Wales Pier they were conveyed in motor cars to the Town Hall, where tea was served. In the evening a banquet was given, after which the party proceeded en route for London.

On Tuesday their programme opened in London, the first item of which was a reception at the Headquarters of the Fire Brigade. Here they were received by SecondOfficer 9-amble, who, in the absence of Captain Hamilton, the chIef officer, conducted them around the Station, pointing o ut and explaining the various appliances. In the evening the party visited the Franco-British Exhibition.

On the following day Brighton was reached, and here the party was accorded the same cordial reception by the Mayor and Corporation and Supt. Lacroix as they received elsewere. Speaking at the banquet given in the evening, the Mayor said there was a link between the Federation and themselves, because the head of their Fire Brigade (Supt. Lacroix) was a Frenchman. During the evening the visitors were made recipients of small silver loving cups, bearing the Anns of the County Borough, as souvenirs of their visit to Brighton.

On Thursday the return was made to London, where the p.arty were received at the Salvage Corps Headquarters by LIeut.-Colonel Fox. Here also a tour of inspection was made, and the visitors expressed their satisfp,ction at what they saw. The French officers were afterwards entertained at lunch eon by Lieut. Col. Fox. Subsequently they accepted an invitation to attend a performance at the Empire Theatre, where special boxes were reserved.

On Friday a visit was paid to Windsor, where they were shown the principal places of interest in the Royal Borough, including a visit to the Castle and St. George's Chapel. The party returned to London by the 6,30 p. m. train, and, after dinner, proceeded to a performance at the Ti voli Theatre.

On Saturday, September 5th, the visitors left for This was a .memorable day in the history of the CIty of Bradford, as It was the first occasion that the French Tricolour has been flown over the Town Hall Here they were the guests of the Lord Mayor (Councillor

September, 1908. -FIRST

J. E. Fawcett, J.P.) They were accompanied by Dr. Vaughan Bateson, hon. surgeon to the Yorkshire District National .Fire Union, who had journeyed with them dunng theIT VISIt to England.

On. tl:eir" arrival the City Police Band played the "Marse Ill aIse, and there was a Guard of Honour from the City Fire Brigade in attendance The Great Northern Station was crowded with those assembled to witness the arrival, amongst whom were Ald. James Freeman (chairman of the Fire Brigade Committee), Mr. W. W:tde (deputy-chairman), Ald. Wm. C. Lupton, Chief Officer Scott, Capt: Roper, Mon. C. Lievre (French Consul), and O. SmIth (the Lord Mayor's secretary).

The party drove to the Town Hall in motor cars On arrival they were recived by the Lord Mayor, and a formal took place. After li.ght refreshments, they proceeded to the fine Central StatlOn, where, after a detailed inspection of the engine house, the Gamewell signa 1 alarm rooms and switch boards was explained by Electrical Officer Field.

Commandant Guesnet expressed himself greatly pleased with. the comfortable housing of the staff, and the laundry sItuated at the rear of the drill yard, 300 feet long, excited much admiration.

A turn out followed, when at a signal from Chief Officer Scott men seemed to appear from nowhere; the stable doors opened automatically, the horses trotted to their positions between the shafts, and in an incredibly short space of time-only a few seconds-a steamer tender and escR.pe were dashing down the road. On side exclamations of " Tres Bien" were heard. This was followed by a smart exhibition in the yard, and the visitors were again obviously delighted with the life-saving and am bulance drill from the tower.

Before they left e.0. Scott presented the guests with a souvenir in the form of an enamelled badge displaying the Bradford City coat-of-arms and the Union Jack and Tricolour, inscribed in gold "Entente cordiale, Bradford Sept. 5th, 19 08 ." '

On returning to the Town Hall a Yorkshire luncheon was served, and the comments of the guests on the Yorkshire pudding and the grouse were most favourable. After which the usual toasts followed.

In the evening a dinner was served at the Victoria (G.N.) Hotel, and a pleasing French menu compensated for the English luncheon.

After dinner there were several interesting toasts honoured, and Chief Officer Scott made a telling speech to his comrades in proposing their healths, which was responded to in felicitous terms by Captain Dyson, of \Yindsor, and Superintendent Lacroix, from Brighton, whose only complaint was that Bradford was so far from Brighton, that their visits were, therefore, too few and too short. At the invitation of the manager, Mr. Percival Graig, the officers afterwards visited ,he Empire Theatre. As they entered the boxes reserved for them the orchestra played the" Marseillaise," and the large audience rose to their feet and accorded the visitors a rousing welcome. The officers were accompanied by Chief Officer Scott, Alderman Arnold and Councillors W. Wade, Dr. Walker, Dr. Bateson, Supt. Lacroix and others

After a pleasing performance the visitors retired to their hotel well satisfied with their journey north. Next day, accompanied by the Bradford officers, they, in acceptance of Captain Roper's invitation, continued their journey to Leeds, and in motors were taken to the Low Fold Mills, where, under Supt. Dixon, the private brigade of Captain

AI D.35

"!:oper very smart exhibition of what he described FlrSt Ald. FITe Work "-a huge blaze being extinguished 1!1 a few mmutes by the" Vanguard" hand engines and a sample. of excellent fire drill. was. executed. party then to the Leeds Clty FIre Station, viewing the of the cIty en route. In spite of the fact that the bngade had been up all night in attendance to three calls S.upt. made a smart turnout in 8 seconds, and VISitors wItnessed an excellent demonstration of the local methods.. huge escape evoked great Interest, and In spIte of the hIgh wmd Lieutenent Ie Boeuf ascended to the. and was loudly applauded on his descent. The VISIt to places of interest by motor car havconcluded their visit in the north, the party departed for London.

The following day the party left London by the 2.3 0 tram.

t?e station, where the adieus were said, the evident appreCIatIon of all for the hospitality was most gratifying to those. who had undertaken the arrangements for the visit, If the remembrance is not to be from the they declared, it will in no less manner remain mdehble 111 the minds of their hosts.

We regret, owing to the call upon our space, we are unable to deal more fully with the visit of the French officers:. It anticipated that. a larger contingent would have VISIted thIS but owmg to the shooting season and other causes thIS wes not possible.

-

Competition for Dublin Ambulance Challenge Cup.

THE annual for the Dublin Ambulance Challenge Cup, .the gift of Viscount Iveagh, was held at Lord I veagh's pnvate grounds, by his kind permission, on August 20th.

The competition for this handsome cup, which is now regarded as the blue riband of the ambulance world in has greatly stimulated ambulance work in Dublin. Elg.h.t teams and a very keen and interesting competltlOn was wItnessed by a large num ber of people.

Unfortunately the weather conditions were unfavourrain falling. However, the fine riding school adJ.ommg was utilised, and the competition was satIsfactOrIly earned through. The judges were Col. Burtchaell, R.A.M.C., Dr. Dallas Pratt and Dr. Stevenson. The result was as follows :-

I. London and North Western Co. team, 435 marks.

2. St. James's Gate Division, S.J.A. E., 433! marks. 3. Messrs. Jacob's No.2 team, 4I4 marks.

At the conclusion of the competition the men were paraded, and Dr. Lumsden presented the members of the first three teams to Her Excellency the Countess of Aberdeen, who congratulated the winners and presented them with the cup and medals. Her Excellency also commended the St. James's Gate team, who were only marks behind. I is interesting to recall the fact that year the same team lost the cup to Belfast by a still narrower margin, namely, 1 mark.

Her Excellency, who was present during the greater part of the afternoon. was deeply interested in the work of the respective teams, and expressed the hope that their example would influence many others to take up the humane and useful work of first aid.

-FIRST

AI D.- September, 1908.

Chief Supt. NO.2 District). The following divisions were represented: Sandown, S'banklin Ryde, St. John's and Newport.

CHICHESTER.-This division underwent its annual inspection at the hands of the District Chief Supt. (Col. Twiss) on September loth.

. The .annua.l competition was also held, the adjudicatmg be1l1g kmdly undertaken by Col. Twiss assisted by Dr. Richardson.

No. District (Metropolitan Corps.)

LEYTON AND LEYTONsToNE.-We have much pleasure in reproducing in our Journal this month a portrait group of the Champion Ambulance Team of this district. Supt. Olley has every reason to be proud of his Division, for we believe it has scored a record in having carried off in one

The prizes. we:e p!esented the evening at a meeting called for the dlstnbutlOn of certificates, &c., a duty kindly undertaken by the Mayoress.

In the course of the evening Col. Twiss made an earnest appeal to those who were present to come forward and take up am bulance work, home nursing, and home hygiene.

September, 19 08 -FIRST line, and afterwards the Ambulance Divisions marched-past in column and quarter-column.

Subsequently the corps repaired to the Football Ground, where a display, which included a mimic battle was given. whole affair was capitally arranged, and gave ample eVidence of the careful training which the coms had received, showing that they would prove valuable auxiliaries for the Regular Forces in case of National emergency.

At the close of the inspection the corps was entertained tea,. and the Inspecting Officer addressed them, expressll1g hiS pleasure at the very marked improvement which had been made since he last inspected them two years ago. They were a fine body of men and he felt sure the City of Birmingham must. be proud 'of them, but he regretted to see that the finanCial support accorded by the citizem was shockingly poor. He felt sure, however, that the matter had only to be brought to the notice of the people of influence in Birmingham to insure a subscription lIst worthy of a body of men who voluntarily rendered such splendid service. Alluding to the next camp it had suggested that he should take them to the sea-side. It was, however, a question of expense. If he and the othe r officers did their part, would the men do their's? Did they intend to come? (Cries of "yes" I). Well, that settled the matter. They would go to Cromer, and if he, as a result, got hopelessly in debt, they must get him out of someh.ow. He was glad to see so many men enro lled lO the MIlitary Home Hospitals Reserve. It was a great honour to be enrolled in that body, and it behoved eve ry man to maintain his efficiency, so that should his services be required, he would be capable of carrying out the duties entrusted to him.

The reputation of this corps for effiCie ncy and smartness IS well known, for many years it has been reg.arded as one of the first in the brigade, and on the occasIOn of the annual inspection on August 29th the members fully maintained the high reputation they have gained.

Mustering at headquarters, under the command of their popular commandant, Chief Supt. Hilton, the corps marched, headed by the volunteer band and accompanied hy the ambulance wagons of Welling borough and Wollaston, to the playing fields of the grammar school. Here, despite occasional showers, a good concourse of spectators had assembled, and much interest was taken in the proceedings.

No. I DISTRICT.-LEYTONSTONE DIVISION.

year the" Massey Mainwaring Cup" and the "Efficiency having also secured right to represent the District m th.e competition for the" Dewar Shield." The mel? bers. takmg part in the competition for the" Massey Mamwanng" Cup and the" Dewar" preliminary were First Officer J. T. Olley, Ptes. G. Fuller, H. Bate, A. B. Barker and J. Bartram j and for the "Efficiency" Cup First J. T. Olley, Sergt. A. R. Burland, S. Wll1epress, Ptes. A. L. Reynolds, F. W. Cox, G. Fuller H. Bate, H. J. Rayment, H. S. Davis, C. Dawson, and A. G:. Barker. Supt. J. J. Olley, in command of the DIVISIon, also appears in the photograph.

No.2 District.

OF WIGHT.- The vanou ; ambulance divisions at "The :Sriars Shanklin, on September 2nd, the ll1specttng officer bell1g Col. Twiss, R.A.M.C. (District

No. 3 District.

BIRMIN GHAl\I.-This £1.ne corps, the strength of which IS now about 363, enrolled 111 eleven Ambulance Divisions and tW? Nursing Divisions, was inspected on August 22nd. Mustenng at the headquarters of the corps in Cambridgestreet, t.he corps marched, h.eaded by its Bugle Band, to the. Cncket Ground of K1l1g Edward's High School. Chief Supt. Fred. Gilbert :vas in command, and other officers on para?e were Chief Surgeon F. Nelson, Supt. Secretary Hawk1l1s, Hon. Surgeons J. Hinton -White and W. Donovan, Supts. Williams and Nutt, First Officers Challoner, Shaw and Taylor, Second Officers K:ng, - North, and Martindale, and Nursing Officers Miss RIchardson and Miss Grainger.

The Inspecting Officer was Assistant Commissioner T. H. Woolston, who was accompanied by District Supt. of Stores the Rev W. Dore Rudgard as Staff Officer.

The men and nursing sisters were first inspected in

The inspecting officer was Asst. Com missioner Woolston, and upon the arrival of the corps, he made a close inspection of the men's kit and equipment, after which a senes of bandaging and other practices were gone through, and the corps then marched past. The methodical way in which the various manceuvres were gone through, and the steadiness of the men on parade, evoked much favourable criticism, and proved how thoroug'l and systematic had been their training.

During the time that the ambulance division were engage d in field work, the nursing sisters were engaged in a competition, and of so high a standard was the work done that the judge, Hon. Surgeon Pickering, had no little diffiin making his award, finally Nursing Sister Miss Tlbbitt was placed 1St, Nursing Sister Miss Hodges 2nd, and Nursing Sister Mrs. Bugby 3rd.

At the conclusion of the inspection, the corps was up in a square and briefly addressed by t:1e inspect109 officer. Mr. Woolston congratulated all ranks on the high state of efficiency the corps maintained, and expressed

Al

D.- 37

his pleasure at the continued interest taken in their transport Th.eir work that afternoon had been of a very high order, ?e was also particularly pleased at the wo:k of tht: nursmg sIsters. He heard of the good service which they rendered to the sick poor in the town and in the ne!ghbouring villages, and was sure it was appreciated Refer.rll1g to camp.. he stated that he intended to try and hold It at the seaSide next year, possibly at Cromer. After expressing pleasure at seeing so many men wearing the badge of the.R.N.A.S.B.R., and commending the Military Home Hospital Reserve to their consideration he concluded by wishing continued prosperity to the

The men then marched back to the town and were subsequently entertained to tea. '

The were on parade: Hon. Surgeons Watson and Plckenng, Supts. C. Nicholson Francis Swindall, Groom and Eatley, First Officers Pasenhall Bugby and Parsons, and Lady Supt. Miss Smith. was a total of about 200 of all ranks on parade.

Ip SW ICH. - The Deputy Commissioner of the District (Colonel G. S. Elliston, V. D.), who was accompanied by the District Supt.-Secretary (Capt. W. A. Gibb, M.D.), inspected this Corps in Wherstead Park, on Saturday, September 5th. There was a total of about 110 of all ranks on paradej and considering all things this was a very fair muster. The officers on parade were Chief Surgeon S. O. Eades, and Hon. Surgeons W. Fryer, J. F. C. Hosack and G. M Hetherington and Supt. Smithers, Curtis, Damant and Pawsey. We wer e also pl eased to note the presence of Miss Coulcher, the indefatigable Honorary Secretary of the Ipswich Centre S.J.A.A A capital demonstration in ambulance drill and bandaging was given and critically examined by the Inspecting Officer, who, addressing the corps at the conclusion, expressed hir!1self as very pleased with all that he had witnessed. It was especially pleasing to know how scrupulously clean everything used in the treatment of the cases was k ept. He complimented all ranks on the progress they had made upon previous years. He knew their corps was noted for the excellent first aiders who were enro lled in its ranks, and who were equal to any in his district. He urged the men to join the Royal Naval Sick Berth Reserve, and thereby help to form a special reserve against th e hour of national emergency.

The members of the corps were afterwards entertained to tea, by the kindness of Mr. Burn ell Barton, and before marching back to town, strolled through the handsome grounds.

The annual inspection of the "Gippeswyk" Division took place on Saturday afternoon, Septem ber 12th, on the beautiful lawn at "Westlyn," Norwich -road, by kind permission of the Hon. Surgeon (Dr. Bartlett).

The Inspecting Officer (District Chief Supt. Capt. F. A. Brooks, M.D., of Felix5towe) having been received with a general salute proceeded to inspect the pouches and equipment, after which a squad, under Supt. Gooderham, gave a demonstration of !he new str e tche r and handseat drills, whilst the remamder, und er FIrst Offic:!r Moffat, went through several bandaging exercises. Th e whole division, under Supt. were then examined in various company formatJOns

In his address to the officers and men, Capt. Brooks congratulated them o? the .increase in their numbers since the last annual mspectlOn. He would be able to report to Colonel Elliston that he was quite satisfied with

-FIRST

all he had witnessed during the afternoon. He. was also pleased to state that he had been unable to dIscover a single "granny" knot.

It was satisfactory to learn that a few of theIr number had volunteered their services for the Home HospItals Reserve in case of war.

Dr. Bartlett and Supt. Gooderham havlOg returned thanks for the words of encouragement spoken to them by Dr. Brooks, First Officer Moffat called for three cheers both Dr. Brooks and Dr. Bartlett, a call which was readily responded to. At. the close the inspection Dr. Bartlett very kindly entertalOed the ladles present and the members of the division to tea.

No. 4 District.

LIVERPOOL.-Amidst every token of sincere regret and in the presence of a large gathering of perso.nal friends and members of various societies, etc., the remalOS of Mr. Richard Edgar Orforrl. were carried to their last resting place on Tuesday, September 1St. The first part of the service took place at St. Cleopas Church, Toxteth Park, and was conducted by the Rev. Webster Hall, M.D and the hymns" Lead Kindly Light," and" For Ever with Lord," were impressively sung by the. large present. A procession of 120 fr.lends ll:nd employes of the Liverpool Overhead RaIlway, wIth whIch company the deceased had been connected since the line opened, and in which he was recognised as a leader in any movement which had as its aim the improvement and benefit of his fellow employes; and as .the respect ll:nd esteem in which he was held by hIS supenors the followlOg officials attended :-Mr. Smith (representing the electrical department), Chief Inspector Charity, Asst. Chief Inspector Penthall and Asst. Jackson. Representing the St. John Ambulance Bngade were ChIef Supt. J. C. Ellison, Hon. Sec. J. Roberts, Inspector of Stores F. Pugh, Sergt. Dutton and Corpls. Allen, Bradley, Broadhurst, Lydiall, and about 30 men. There were a large number of floral tokens, including a wreath from the Liverpool Corps (S.J.A.B.).

The late Mr. Orford was well known as a keen and enthusiastic ambulance man. He was a Sergeant in the Liverpool Corps, and Ambulance Instructor to the Florence Institute, the Y.M.C.A., and Liverpool Boys' Brigade. He was also well known in the competition field, and doubtless many of our readers will remem ber that it was he who captained one of the first five teams which competed for the National Railway Shield at the Crystal Palace in the year of its inauguration.

Thoroughly kind-hearted and ever ready to render assistance in any deserving cause, he will be sadly missed by his comrades and railway mates, to whom, as well as to the members of his sorrowing family, we tender our sincere sympathy in their great bereavement.

PRESTON.-The genial and popular Deputy Commissioner of NO,4 District S.J.A.B. (Colonel Trimble, C.M.G.) never appears so happy as when he is assisting at some function which has as its main aim the amelioration of human suffering, or when he is assisting at the honouring of a brave citizen. As the local representative of the Royal Humane Society, at the close of the ordinary business at Preston Police Court, 0n September 28th, the Colonel requested the Mayor to present to Ernest Howell the Vellum Certificate for gallantly saving life on the Ribble, on July 3rd. Howell, who it is stated is only sixteen years of age, rescued another youth named Calder bank, who

Al D.- September, 1908. was in imminent danger of drowning whilst bathing in the river.

In presenting the recipient with the Certificate the Mayor congratulated him upon his brave action: Colonel Trimble afterwards shook hands WIth Howell, remarking, "I congratulate you, you are a brave chap." These few words are characteristic of the Doctor, and those who know him will realise how fully he meant them when he uttered them.

No. 5 District.

LEEDs.-The annual inspection of this corps took place on Saturday, September 5th, at the Corn Exchange, Leeds. There was a good number on parade, all the various divisions of the corps being well represented.

District Superintendent Treasurer C. W. Eames, M. D., was the inspecting officer. Other officers present were Chief Surg. and Acting Chief Supt. A. Ellison, M.R.C.S.; Hon. Surg. G. P. Humphrey, M.B. (A Division); Supt Sec. A. Eddison; Supt. of Stores J. McCullagh (Leeds Corps) Supt. J. Kaye and 4th Officer J. W. Bellamy (H Division; Nursing Officers Miss A. G. Morton and Miss A. Simpson.

The members of the corps were put through infantry and stretcher drill, bandaging, etc. At the close of the inspection the inspecting officer expressed his satisfaction with the work done during afternoon and said he was well pleased with the smartness of all on parade.

The annual competition of the corps took place immediately after the inspection, the District Supt. Treas. acting as judge.

Five divisions entered for the competition, the work throughout being very smartly performed, each team taking a keen interest in it.

"A" Division (Armley and Wortley) won first prize, viz., Silver Shield and five silver medals with gold centre. "C" Division (Kirkstall, Burley and Headingley) winning the second prize, viz., five silver medals. This is the second occasion on which the "A" Division has won the first prize.

ILKESTON.-This corps underwent its annual inspection on Septem ber 5 th, the inspecting officer being Asst. Commissioner S. W. Malkin. There were 86 men on parade, uncler the command of Chief Surgeon and Chief Supt. Dobson.

After a series of drills and" first aid" work, the corps was formed up and addressed by the inspecting officer, who warmly complimented the members on the very excellent way in which all the various drills had been performed and intimated that his report on the work would be " first class."

SHEFFIELD.-In connection with this corps, and with a view to still further promote the efficiency of its members, a series of lectures will be inaugurated in the beginning of October. The subjects will embrace advanced first aid, nursing and military sanitation; in connection with the latter subject, we would recommend the members to obtain from Messrs. Churchill" Military Hygiene," by Col. Firth, R.A.M.C.

No. 6 Dstrict.

ADDISON annual inspection of this di visi0n took place on Septem ber 5th. The inspecting officer was District SupL of Stores C. B. Palmer, J.P.

September, 1908 -FIRST NO.7 District.

PONTYPOOL.-The second annual competition for the Southern Mines Inspection District Ambulance League Shield took place at Newport on July I.Ith, when teams competed each havJl1CT won the SectlOna I commne '. ., h D etition in their respectIve dIStricts. Col. eputy tom mIssioner No. 7 al'l:d Dr. q-nffiths, Deputy Com missioner NO.2 DIstrict, offiCIated ll:s J a.nd after a very close contest awarded the first pnze, of a gold medal for each member of the team .and the to hold the shield for 12 months, to the Tnpentwys CollIery Team (Pontypool). The members of the team wereMessrs G. H. Neens (captain), E. Jones, H. Jones, A. Williams and T. Evans reserve, B. Challoner ; Instructors S t A J England and 1st Officer R. S. DavIes; all the up. h P 1 members of the team are enrolled 111 t e ontypoo Division of the S.J.A.B.

The shield was presented for by. J. S. Martin, Esq., ChiEf Inspector of Mines, WIth the VIeW to

AID.

- 39

Meeting of the Service International Council. Fire

AT the meeting of the International Fire Service Council held at Luxemburg, the Englishmen. were elected to hold office :-Mr. EdwJl1 O. Sachs (ChaIrman of the British Fire Prevention Committee) to be a Vice-President, Mr. Horace Folker (Vice-President of tbe N.ational Fire Brigade Union) to be a member of the ExecutIve, Mr. Ellis Marsland (Honorary Secretary of the SOCIety of Architects) to be a Deputy Honorary Secretary..

Chief Officer Meyer, of the Amsterdam was elected President, and Monsieur De Mane (PreSIdent of the Luxemburg Fire Brigade Union) was elected General Honorary Secretary.

The meeting was attended by from nearly the countries represented on the Council, the countrIes represented having an aggregate of .over 2,500,.000 The meeting was mamly WIth administrative matters and the reVISIon cf the statutes which will now allow the Council to also financially assist in the organisation of Fire Congresses in countries where they may be beneficial.

The next Executive meeting of the Council will take place in January, and the next General Council meeting will probably be held in 1909, at St. Petersburg.

The occasion of the meetmg at Luxemburg was taken for a parade of .firemen from country brigades and for exhIhltlOn drills and the efficiency of the fire gades of the Grand Duchy was most satlsactorily demonstrated.

THE TRIPE:NTWYS COLLIERY TEATI!. (PONTYPOOL DIVISION.-No. 7 DISTRICT.)

O age ambulance work in the collieries under his enc ur 1 d supervision, and it is surprising what It 1as crea e in the short space of 18 months: teams only are allowed to compete, and the dIstnct from Cornwall to Kent, and includes Gloucestershire and Monmouthshire.

Mr. R. Jacobson, of 79, Shoe-lane, London, E.-C., has t placed on the market several Asbestos Protectmg. and Appliances, which are indispensa?le for ?re work and kindred occupations that entaIl any rIsk of beIng burnt.

Practically all the members of the of London Police are now capable of rendering first aId In the case of accident or sudden illness. A return that last year such assistance was given with good effect 111 no fewer than 124 instances.

Mr. Edwin O. Sachs, Chairman of the British Fire Prevention Committee, has accorded the Russian Gold Medal for on the Ribbon of St. Andrew" .SIr Edward Grey, in transmitting the. dIstmctIOn to Mr. Sachs, has intimated to hIm that th.e medal was awarded at the request of. Imperial Highness Grand Duke. VladImIr for services rendered Jl1 the preventIOn of the outbreak of fires, and that the King has been pleased to grant the permission for its accept-

ance. . M

We beg to ten.de.r sincere congratulations to r. Sachs on the high dIstmctIOn that has been confeued upon him.

Coming Events.

Particulars oJ jo r th "ollling eveltts will be iltSert ed ill thi s ( 01ll1ll11 110ee .1 1 U P lifre ceived Itot later thalt tile I4.th of cadI 1II0lltk 0, Cllaro ",

B --hId-The annual ambulance competition for the rzerJ'e 11 Sh' Id d other value( Tunstill" Memorial Silver Cha enge le, han 1 B' fi ld ,'11 ke lace in the Wesleyan Sc 00 s, .ner e , able prizes, \\ "rd. For further particulars wnte A. G. °Sn Brierfield, near Burnley. mlt), ., ort of the formation of Albz'17dta1Jl-A meet1l1g 10 supp 'll b held the proposed International Ambulanc 8 e on Wednesday, 23 rd , at p.m. a , Altrincham, CheshIre.

Brevities.

IN our editorial we have dealt with the agreement which has been arrived at between the recognised English and Scotch Ambulance Associations, and we are sure that our readers will share our feelings of satisfaction that an honorable understanding has been arrived at, and will join with us in wishing" God speed" to both in their humanitarian mission. '''Ie also make reference to the of unauthorised ambulance bodies; and in this column we would appeal to those responsible for their conduct to carefully consider their position, feeling convinced that upon calm reflection they cannot fail to realise that it is one of antagonism to an Association which has both the sympathy and1iupport of all members of our Royal Family, their action is therefore not only undignified, but savours of a want of loyalty. One point we would especially desire to call attention to here, it has been brought to Our notice that there are individuals who are members of the Sr. John Am bulance Association and are also active workers in an opposition body. It is a well -known scriptural proverb "That no man can serve two masters," and our correspondent who writes us on the subject surely proves the truth of this assertion Referring to th e case of a man who is connected with both the national and the local organisations, he says he never loses an opportunity of displa) ing his antagonism to the parent Association, and yet he has no scruples, when the chance offers, of figuring in the list of competitors in an Association team for pri zes by his employers. This is "pot hunting" with a vengeance.

THE most disconcerting feature of the terrible mInmg accident at Wigan, says the Medical Pre ss is the extreme difficulty with which the heroic comrades of the entombed men were confronted in their endeavours to go to the ir assistance. We do not read of any masks or helmets or other respiratory appliances which enable human beings to exist in an irrespirable atmosphere being available on the spot, although they were used by the rescue party that came from. a distance. This is the more surprising because we In England have probably more experience of such accidents and their consequences than all the rest of the world put together. Surely it ought to be made comon m.ine owners to provide all necessary appliances In VIew of thIS ever-present contingency. The scenes after this lamentable catastrophe were a repetition of those that marked the holocaust at Courri e res in France, where the only efficient service was rendered by a squad of German properly equipped with air reservoirs and life-saving appllances. We trust the matter will receive the attention of Parliament in due course, for the present condition of things is little short of a scandal.

ONE of the most gratifying features in connection with Mr. Haldane's Territorial Army scheme has been the

AI D.- Septem be r, 1908

patriotic response which has been made to it by members of the medical profession. When one realises how littl e these gentlemen have to call their own, it is marvellous how readily they sacrifice it in the interests of their country and their fellow citizens. The medical profession, all honour to them, have set an example which, if it were only followed by members of the more leisured classes, would soon assure the SUCCeSS of the scheme. The community is so apt to witness the self-sacrifice and unselfishness on the part of mem bers of the medical profession, that, we fear it fails to realise the obligations, which, it is under for much devoted service, ungrudgingly rendered in the interest of the public weal.

*

COLONEL SIR RICHARD TEMPLE recently gave som e interesting evidence before the Royal Commission on Safety in Mines. His evidence is very fully reponed in our contemporary Th e Iron &> Coal Trades' R eview. We were somewhat surprised to learn by it that the Hom e Nursing Classes carried out under the St. John Am bulance Association are not popular in mining districts. Sir Richard, in the course of his evidence, said "The Home Nursing Classes are specially open to women, but the Association finds many prejudices against their establishment among so conservative a class as the miner." We have always been under the impression that the admirable nursing divisions connected with the Tibshelf, Birchwood and Babbington Collieries Ambulance Corps were largely recruited from among the women members of the miners' families, and we have felt [hat those large-hearted ladies, who, were at the head and were responsible for the training and efficiency of the nurses were carrying on a work, the value of which it was not possible to over -e stimate. * , * *

IT is a common misapprehension to assume that the spirit of enten t e cordiale hetween the people of England and France is of the most recent origin. This is not so, for upwards of thirty years the firemen of both countries have been striving to bring about closer relationship. There have been frequent meetings, both on English and French soil, between the Services of the two countries and there is no doubt that the good seed planted many ago by the firemen, and tended to carefuliy ever since, paved the way for the splendid results brought about by the tact of our beloved King, and the illustrious Presidents of the French Republic. Had the pioneers of the movement in this country been members of the Diplomatic body they would long ere this have received national recognition for the service rendered, but being simply firem e n, and connected with a force that up to the present has received but scant encouragement from the State, their claims to recognition have therefore been ignored by both the great political parties of the State. It is otherwise in France, the authoritie:; there have fully realised the value and importance of the friendship promoted by these fire brigade gatherings and they have honoured the" fire

September, 19 08 -FIRST

fighters" of both countries. Many of our English firemen are in possession of the French Order of Merit, and their names are household words in many parts of France

AI D.Our Portrait Gallery.

MR. \VILLl Al\l HA Rl\lAN F1SHI£R. SECRET ARY BRITISH MAN TESl\fAN WORKS, AMI3ULANCE CLA SS ES, SWANSEA.

THERE are few more earnest or active workers in the am bulance cause in South Wales than the ge ntl ema n whose portrait we present to our readers this month.

FARNHAM.-The m e mbers of this centre gave a display in the grounds of the Castle, by kind permission of the Bishop of Winchester, on August 12th, and during the proceedings Mrs. Ryle kindly presented certificates and medallions to successful students at the recent classes.

The display, which was taken part in by members of the Farnham, Badshot Lea, and Wrecclesham classes was followed with great interest by the large company present. Subsequent to the presentation of certificates the rector made a few remarks, and alluding to the popular and energetic secretary, of the centre: said that to look at him one would say he was a man devoid of weakness, but the members of their classes had discovered that he had one, and that was his fondness for a pipe, and in order to show how much they appreciated the time and labour he gave in his devotion to the ambulance cause, he would asks Mrs. Ryle on their behalf to present to him that handsome cabinet full of his favourite tobacco and other things as well.

Mrs. Ryle then handed over the gift in the name of the corps and in the name of the Bishop and herself.

Mr. Winslade, in reply, said he felt it was well nigh impossible to adequately express his thanks for the handsome gift, it had come as a complete surprise to him. He thanked them from the bottom of his heart. The work for the past 25 years had been a g reat pleasure to him, and he hoped he should be able to continue it for many years yet.

The rector said he had been requested by Dr. Coad, who was away at present with the Territorial Army, and who was desirous of obtaining some recruits from their corps to serve in the Farnham section of the Royal Army Medical Corps, to appeal to them. The doctor wanted at least twelve men. They would do their drilling in Farnham under Dr. Coad, who expressed the hop e that members of the Farnham corps would come forward and show that they were actuated by a spirit of patriotism and self-sacrifice. He (the rector) was certain after what he had seen that evening that they would not consider the Territorial Army safe unless they had twelve of their best men able and ready to render first aid In conclusion, on behalf of that ga thering, he desired to return their thanks to Mrs. Ryle for her kindness in making the presentations.

In Replying, Mrs. Ryle said she had been intensely interested with the proceedings, and she was only sorry that the Bishop was not able to be present. He took a great interest in their work, and it was a great joy to him to know that they had such an efficient corps in Farnham.

The past session of the centre has been a record one, four classes have been held, and out of 74 candidates who were examined 64 were succ ess ful in the examinations.

Mr. Fisher, who was born in Bermondsey, London, in the year 1869, and educated at th e Halford School, Swansea, is now engaged in the engineering d epa rtm en t of the British Mannesman Tub e Works, Landore. T a king a keen and practical interest in ambulance work and recognising its value to those who are engaged in the la rge engineering works in the locality, he threw himself whole heartedly into the cause, a nd th e various medical men who have acted as lecturer s h ave one and all borne testimony to the

very valuable assistance he has rendered to th em in the practical part of the instruction, and there is no doubt that much of the great success which has attended the various classes in the district and the large number of c('rtificates gained, has been due to the unfla gging energy and enthusiasm displayed in the work by the subject of our sketch.

Speaking at the recent distributi on of certificates in connection with the Mannesm an Works, Mr. Kohn, the manager, who presided, said: "It was six years since their first class was formed, and he was pleased to say that, in all the examinations which ha d since been he ld, they had not had a single failure. Over 100 certificates, twenty medallions, and two labels (or bars) had been gai ned by their members, and the Mannesman ambulance class regarded with pride the fact that one of its. members, Fisher, the secretary, was the first to obtam the label In Swansea."

-FIRST

Although the Mannesman classes have naturally a first claim on Mr. Fisher, he yet finds time to render valuable aid to other classes in the district, and in this connection he has acted as lay instructor to classes held in connection with th e Great Western Railway, the Swansea Higher Grace Schools, the Graigold Merthyr Fuel Works, &c. In the competition field, also, teams coached by this gentleman, have been singularly successful. At a recent competition held in connection with and under the Swansea Local Education Authority, competitors trained by Mr. Fisher, secured 18 out of the 22 prizes offered. This, we should say, almost constitutes a record.

At a recent meeting the subject of our sketch was presented with a handsom ely-framed photograph of the members of the class, and the applause which greeted the recipient was a practical proof of his popularity. We trust that for m3.ny years he may have health and strength to carryon the work, and that the time and labour he so ungrudgingly devotes to amhulance work may result in a large accession of am bulance workers in South Wales.

The "David Davies" Ambulance Shield.

THE first competition in connection with the Ocean Collieries for this challenge shield, presented by David Davies, Esq., M.P., took place at Ton Pentre last month, in the presence of a large concourse of spectators.

The following teams entered for competition: Treharris, Lady Windsor, Maindy, Bwllfa, Garw, Nantymoel, Dare, Park. The proceedings commenced at 2.30, and were not concluded until 9.

The judges were Drs. H. G. Cook and W. Martin, of Cardiff, and at the conclu$ion of an interesting and keen competition th ey awarded the shield and silver medals to Garw. securing 2nd and 3rd places, and Dare and Bwllfa tI e Ing for 4th place.

In h5s award, Dr: Cook paid a high compliment to the wInnmg .team, he said, obtained 90 marks out of a pOSS1 ble 100 In practIcal work, and a like number of marks in the viva voce.

In handing the shield to the winning team, Mr. Davies made a strong appeal to the young men of the to forward and qualify in ambulance work, pOIntmg out Its value to those working underground. It was hoped that they would shortly have a mining school at Cardiff, where special attention would be devoted to the methods of minimising the risk of underground work.

Messrs. W. Jenkins and Thomas Evans also spoke, aQd a hearty vote of thanks was accorded the judges.

Royal Army Medical Corps (Territorial).

LINC OLNSHIRE.-Preparations are now in course of pro&ress a m.ounted of this corps for serVIce WIth the Lmcolnshire TerntorIal Force. Grimsby has been selected for headquarters, and Surgeon-Major Pocket, M. D., has unaertaken to organise the unit.

NOR WICH.-The d.rivers of the 2nd East Anglian Field Ambulanc e mustered In strength at t h e White Lion last for th.e smoking concert. Sergt. -Major Pntchard preSIded, m th e absence of Col. Stacey.

In the course of the evening, the Chairman spoke at s?me length on M.r. Haldane's sch e me, which he conSIdered should be gIven a fair trial. It might surprise some

AI D.- Septem ber, 1908

of his hearers, said the speaker, to know that the 2nd East Field Am bulance had recruited better than any other In the country, and they were now practically at full strength.

A presentation was made to Sergt. Everitt of a handsome silver cruet in recognition of the interest he has shown in the mounted branch.

The recipient suitably responded.

MANCHESTER.- The East Lancashire Territorial Royal Army Medical Corps held the annual ambulance competition here last month.

The prizes were awarded as follows :- Stretcher drill : I, C (Bolton) Section, No. I Field Ambulance' 2 C (Bury) Section, NO.2 Field Ambulance. : I, C (Bury) ?ection, NO.3 Field Ambulance ; 2, A (Manchester) SectIOn, NO.3 Field Ambulance.

The judges were Major Fairclough, and Capts. Wooley and Smith.

The Yorkshire Agricultural Society's Show.

THE annual show held at Halifax in August last proved, as usual, a huge success. The weather being favourable there was a large attendance.

The ambulance arrangements were carried out by the HalIfax Ambulance and Nursing Divisions, assisted by a few bers the Division, the general supervlSlon being under Dlstnct Chief Surgeon Major E. West Symes, M. 1)., A.M.R.

The Ambulance Station was in the medical charge of Surgeon Capt. J. Crossley Wright, Hon. Surg. and Supt. of the Halifax Division, and Hon. Surgeon T. H. Hunt, M.D., assisted by Lady Supt. Miss Warneford and 1st Officer S. Aurr.

The staff on duty each day consisted of one officer or eight privates and four nursing sisters ; the night duty bemg undertaken by one corporal, two privates and three nursing sisters.

:rwenty-seven cases were during the three days, claSSIfied as follows ;-ConcussIOn I, cuts and bruises 8 fainting I I, forei gn bodies in eye 3, burns and scalds 2' sprains 2, and redressings 2.

Mr. Maughan, the secretary of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, most kindly conveyed to the members of the division and to the local press the Council's approbation of the ambulance arrangement.

The station was inspected by a large number of visitors, all of whom expressed satisfaction at the very complete arrangements whIch had been made to deal with any casualty.

The thanks of the officers of the division are due to the Chief Constable for the loan of the wheeled litter and blankets,. and also to the memb.ers of. the Borough Police for the kind and ready manner In whIch they assisted the ambulance staff in the execution of theIr duties. •

We hope to publish in our next issue an article on " Poisoning," by Dr. Heaton C. Howard.

When corresponding with Advertisers please mention "First Aid."

September, 1908. - FIR S T

The Dennis Patent Turbine Fire Engine.

THE latest machi?e for [Ire fighting is the Dennis Patent TurbIne FIre EngIn e The machine which is the invention of Messrs. D e nnis Bros., Ltd., well-known motor manufacturers of Guildford, is the first petrol-driven fire engine. and tuxbine pump ever constructed, and undoubtedly It has a great future before it.

The manufacturers recently exhibited it at the Fire Camp, Scarborough, an.d at the close of the meeting the eng Ine returned to Gulldford by road, visiting several of .large en route, where displays showing its capabIlItIes were. given several municipalities and prominent fire bngade chIefs, and th e universal opinion, as by these and e ndorsed by the public press, IS that the engIne is one of the best fir e fighting machines ever placed upon the market.

AID.- 43

it is quite to commence work at once, th ere is no delay as IS often experienced in the case of a steam fire engme.

. Messrs. I?ennis issue a very full explanatory circular, whIch they WIll pl ease d to send to any fire brigade or others nterested in fire brigade matters. The of the eng me (£850) cannot be said to be exwhen one compares the very distinct advantages It possesses over ?ther machines on the market.

Reviews.

MILITARY HYGIENE:

A MANUAL OF SANITATION

FOR SOLD

IER S.

By Lieut. -Co l. R. H. Firth, R.A.M.C., F.R.C.S., D.P.H.

THIS is.a most valuable little work, and now that a knowled ge o.f samtary matters is compu lsory in all candidates for to rank captain in the British forces, should prove of mestlmable assIstance to those preparing for exami-

It is a very powerful vehicle, fitted with a 40 -6 0 horsepower engine, and capable of travelling 30 miles an hour. For the purpose of propulsion th e engine is applied to the back whe els, and from there it can be disconne cted alld utilised to drive the mechanism of the turbine pump. The ]Jump, which is of the centrifugal high-pressure or turbine type, is made by Gwynnes, Ltd., the well-known pump manufacturers of London. It is capable of discharging about 400 galhms of water in two jets, each 120 ft. high, and possesses the peculiar advantage of being able to add a pressure of 200 (t. or so to the pressure of any wate r main with which it mi g ht be connected. This is a featur e possessed by n o fire engine of the ordinary type. In th ese latter th e water has to be let into a tank or dam, and then drawn up through the suction. Another point which is greatly in its favom is that immediately on arrival at a fire

nation. The author has treated his various subjects in language readily understandable by the layman, and a careful digest of its pages should enable the company commander to adopt and carry out many of the rules of hygiene which conduce to the preservation of good health amongst his men. V.,re ar e glad to see that this subject is takin g such a prop.Jinent place in military life, for there is no doubt that a stricter observance of the well-known axiom" that prevention is better than cur e, " would often tend to minimi se the effe cts of preventable disease which so often depletes the effective strength of an army in time of war. The author, who is now in charge of the School of Army Sanitation at Aldershot, has treated his subjects in a most practical a nd comprehensive manner, dealing in turn with the methods to be aclopted for ascertaining the physical condition of the recruit, and his training as a soldier, upon which he offers many valuable Other subjects dealt with embrace food, clothing, equipmen t and barrack accommodation. Valuable hints are also laid down as

THE "DENNI S" TURBINE FIRE ENGINE.

regards personal hygiene and the necessity for ensuring the purity of the supply.

We consider It one of the most valuable works on thIs important subject that we have yet met with, and all our readers, whether connected with the regular forces or solely engaged in civil uccupations, will find in its pages many valuable and useful hints which are capable of application in everyday life. It is published by Messrs. J. & A. Churchill, 7, Great Marlborough-street, London, W., and the price is three shillings and sixpence.

Obituary.

SIR EYRE MASSEY SHAW, K.C.B.

IT was with deep and sincere regret that his many friends, both in this country and abroad, learned of the death of Sir Eyre M. Shaw. The deceased officer, who a few years since had one of his legs amputated, had never fully recovered his old form, and in December last it was deemed advisable to amputate the second leg. In spite of this double affliction the " old chief" bore his trials with unfailing courage, and his many friends had hoped that in spi te of his advancing years, he might have been spared to us yet a little longer. Unfortunately these hopes were not fulfilled, and the deceased officer passed away at Folkestone, whither he had gone to recuperate, on August 29th.

Sir Eyre Shaw, who was born in Ireland, was originally intended for the church, and with this end in view he graduated at Trinity College, Dublin, where he took his B. A. and M.A. degrees. The

AI D.- Septem ber, 1908.

to his calling, he never spared himself, and he was beloved by the men serving under him, who had the most implicit confidence in his skill and judgment, and appreciated the kindly interest he at all times took in their welfare, both while in the service and after quitting the ranks.

Sir Eyre was the author of many valuable works on Fire Brigade Organisation, &c., and was at all times willing to give practical advice to Municipalities and Provincial Fire Brigades on matters appertaining to the question of fire extinction.

The National Fire Brigades Union had a warm :riend in Sir Eyre Shaw, and it will be remembered that prior to the departure of the members of the ambulance department for service in South Africa they were inspected by the deceased officer, who wished them "God speed." Few whose privilege it was to be present on that occasion will ever forget its impressiveness-the almost pathetic sight of the grand old cllief standing uncovered, facing the stal wart band of young firemen who were proceeding to a distant land to do service for Queen and country. The keen east wind was blowing about his silver hair, and tears were coursing down his cheeks as he admonished them to do their duty, fin · ishing the few remarks which he addressed to them, and which were broken by emotion, by saying, "As I look down upon you and realise that you are going out in the dicsharge of a duty to your Queen and country, I long with a longing that is almost indescribable, that I might also have that privilege and could accompany you."

September 19 08 -FIRST

Cemetery, the grave being situated in the "Fireman's Corner," a few yards from the monument erected to members of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade, many of whom had died" fighting the flames" under "the grand old chief," who now rests by their side. A guard of honour, composed of members of the London Fire Brigade, London Salvage Corps, and the National Fire Brigades' Union, was mounted at the cemetery under Lieut. Sladen, R.N. (Third Officer London Fire Brigade), and after the committal it marched past the grave and saluted.

" The proudest laurels are not always won Amid the carnage of the battlefield; But earned by faithful duty bravely done In saving human life."

The Military Home Hospitals Reserve.

By

AI D.- 45

How TO BE OBTAINED.

It is essential that the personnel should be reliable and trustworthy, and those who, like myself, had an opportunity of judging the work of the Brigade on active service will bear testimony that these qualities, capability and aptitude to learn and perform the work required of them, were manifested in a high degree by its members in South Africa.

It is therefore to be expected that with this experience one would naturally turn to the St. John Ambulance Brigade for help, and if the scheme finds favour with its mem bers, not only is its success assured, but their country in its time of need and their fellow-citizens of this great empire will indeed owe them a debt of gratitude.

INDIVIDUAL REQUIREllfENTS.

LIEUT.-COLONEL

G. E. TWISS, R.A.M.C. (Ret. pay), Supt. and Honorary Surgeon, I?ivision S.J.A.B District Chief Supt. NO.2 Dlstnct.

THE personnel of medical units cannot in peace time be kept at war establishment. It would be a waste of public money and also a waste of time on the part of those would find no work to do. In time of war the most Important medical unit both at hot?e and in the. field is th.e hospital. There the real surgIcal and medIcal work IS done, and there a proper establishment of nurses, male and female and of all who are necessary to the wants of the is indispensabl.e. It does lie withir: the scope of this paper to deal With the questlOn of hospItals out of Great Britain, but it is obvious that if the personnel of the hospitals at home goes to the seat war. have thoroughly trained, efficient, and relt.able md1vl.duals ready and willing to take their places. It to do thIS a.nd meet the additional strain caused by the mflux of patlents, far exceeding both in numbers and the severity of their ailments those usually treated, that the Military H?me Hospitals Reserve has been maugurated by a CommIttee representing the Army Medical and the Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem 10 England.

In the Nursing Divisions of the Brigade all have been trained in first aid and home nursing, and their practices conse1,uently cause them to be well informed in the alphabet of hospital work. The men of .the Brigade h.ave all learned first aid, many have passed m home nursmg, and a large number are now attending the course by which th8y will obtain certificates ir: Here, then, is the material from whIch, WIth a httle trammg and experience in r eal work, the lady and male nurses can well be developed. The officers and non-commissioned officers of the Brigade- reliable, trustworthy, capable, and zealous -are well fitted to take the places of the warrant officer and non-commissioned officers and clerks in the military hnspitals, where it is of no small importance that the management of discipline and of etc., should be in the hands of men of mtegnty. If It be not possible to have an officer. of the Royal Army Medical Corps either on full or pay to. take charge of the hospital, without doubt the other senior officers, could be obtamed from the d1stnct, and quartermasters could similarly be found- Cooks .and compounders could be specially to the Bngade and thence to the Military Home HospItals Reserve. It would be an advantage that the general duty men be taken fr?m the ranks of the Brigade, as the whole personnel bemg St. John men would tend to esprit de and consequently to both smooth and effective workmg. TRAINING.

OF

OFFICER. idea of a clerical life, however, did not appeal to young Irishman, and he gave up the idea and went for a to Amer,ica, intending to adopt a seafaring professlOn. On h1.S return, however, he again altered his plans and went mto the army, from which he retired in 1860 to take up the position of chief officer in the Belfast Police and Fire Brigade.

As a result of the tragic death of Supt. James Braidwood at the Tooley-street fire in 186r it was decided to reorganise the London Fire Service, the task being taken over from the Insurance Companies by the Metropolitan of Works. Capt. Shaw was selected for the post of ChIef Officer, and under his skilful management the brigade became one of most efficient fire-fighting services in the world Kmg was always a great admirer of Capt. Shaw and hIS work, and on many occasions, when Prince of Wales, accompanied him to fires.

In 189 I he retired on a pension and was honoured with a knighthood in recognition of his services. Devuted

OF

The funeral took place on Saturday, August 29th. The first COFFIN LEAVING

part of the service was rendered at St. Saviour's Church, St. George's-square, S. w. The coffin was carried from the hearse to the church by eight of his old comrades, who also acted as bearers at the cemetery. His Majesty was represented by Sir Archibald Edmonstone, and amongst those present were Mr. John Burns and Capt. Lionel Wells, also several members of the London County Council.

The pall bearers were Capt. Hamilton, chief officer of the London Fire Brigade; Lieut.-Col. Fox, chief officer, London Salvage Corps; Lieut.-Col. Sea\:)roke, chairman National Fire Brigades' Union; and Mr. Sydney Gamble, second officer London Fire Brigade.

The coffin was covered with the Union Jack, and upon it was laid the helmet, belt and axe of the deceased officer. At the door of the church the cortege was met by the choir and the Rev. A. F. Watkins. During the service the following hymns were sung, "Now the Labourers Task is Done," "Lead Kindly Light," and "On the Resurrection Morning." The interment took place at Highgate

PERSONNEL NEEDED.

The number required is not within my knowledge, except that I do not doubt that,. however large the number available there would be no gnevance on the part of the medical that it was excessive; and though probably, when arises, many mem botl? of the Brigade and those trained. by the WIll come forward and offer their serVIces, yet It IS necessa.ry to have both on paper and know in reality the number whIch can be relied on.

As regards the character and qualifi.cations of the Military Home Hospitals Reserve, WIll be requlfed in our hospitals to the ar:d carry out the many duties in connectlOn WIth nursmg, comfort and general well-being, besides the medIcal officers :Lady Nurses.

Male Nurses. Warrant and Non-Commissioned Officers. Cooks. Compounders. Clerks. General Duty Men.

The lady and male nurses should be encouraged to attend at the nearest military hospital to see .and take in any work going on, and so be instructed m the dutIes which would fall to their lot when actually employed. The warrant officers, non-commissioned officers, and men should similarly be instructed when they can wllo would be placed in ?f stores makmg a spec1ahty of their own stores, then workmg returns, etc. !he comounders, in civil life, do practIcally the work whlc.h be required of them in war time, and need no speCial tra!nthey would soon make themselves conversant WIth mg, as .' h t the forms) etc., to be rendered 111 connect.lOn WIt recelp and expenditure of drugs, etc. An attendance at the hospital dispensary would be .deslrable, but not t · 1 It would be an advantage If the cooks .could essen 1il h k g of attend at odd times in the mornmg to. see e .wor 10 the kitchen and the duties in WIth It, an? here it might be stated that a g.ood plam cook to work. hImself, and not a gentleman. to ISsue orders to others, IS what a military hospital reqUires. UNIT.

No fixed unit as to numbers can be laid do,:n in the Military Home Hospitals Reserve, but each UnIt should

FUNERAL

SIR EYRE M. SHAW.

THE RESIDENCE

DECEASED

-FIRST

exactly correspond with the wa1' establisll11wlt of its own hospital and be called "Military Home Hospital Reserve" (station or hospital). Its individual members should, as before indicated, be trained in peace time to step into the exact places they would occupy on the departure of the Royal Army l\Iedical Corps.

LOCAL TRAINING.

The local training should, as before stated, be not necessarily so many days, but as many hours as the member can spare flOm the leisure which the employment by which he earns his livelihood permits.

It is essential that this should be thoroughly understood both by those in supreme command as well as those in petty authority in the military hospitals, so that no man who comes for instruction shall be told: "There is nothing for you to see, do, or learn now; come at eight in the morning.)) There is no period of the twenty-four hours in a military hospital when those eager to learn cannot be taught, or those willing to work cannot be found useful employment, and in many cases such teaching would relieve the monotony of some routine duty. There is always something to see and something to do, and willing brains and hands can always be taught and employed. It must be remem bered that it is not idle curiosity which animates the members of the Brigade. They already give up much of their spare time, and often of their spare money, to the cause of humanity without reward. They would come with a sincere desire to render themselves more useful to their fellow creatures, whether they be civilians or soldiers, and consequently to help them in acquiring knowledge which shall hereafter cause the great work which in time of war devolves on the military hospitals to be carried on in such a way as to ensure all that is best for those treated thE-rein, is not only the duty of the Royal Army Medical Corps, but will, when understood, be to them a labour of love. In the work of the Order, there is neither race, creed, nor sect. In the work of a military hospital the care of the sick and wounded is the primary object, and its accomplishment the aim of the Army Medical Service, no matter how styled.

WHY HAVE so FEW JOINED?

Why have not more members of the St. John Ambulance Brigade joined the Military Home Hospitals Reserve?

What are they at present asked to do? To put down their names, to give up their present employment at a moment's notice, serve for an indefinite period for a soldier's pay, and then possibly, when they have completed the work which the country and the army requires of them, join the ranks of the unemployed.

This is terse, but I venture to think true, and what acts as an additional deterrence is that men cannot know how they or their families will be placed when the call comes.

SUGGESTIONS.

.There is plenty of for all willing helpers in the medIcal work whIch actIve service entails, and there should be emulation but no rivalry between those whose aim is to organise such helpers a,nd provide medical and other necessary equipment.

At the present time, when a new branch of the medical service is being called into existence and the force to which it belongs is being discussed throughout the length and breadth the land, it is only natural to expect men to make compansons and form opinions.

In such comparison the member of Brigade

AI D.- September, 1908.

notice that his service in the Military Home Hospitals Reserve does not give him army rank.

This may seem a matter of mere sentiment, but sentiment often counts for a great deal. The grievance, if grievance it should be admitted to be, could easily be obviated, and would cost nothi?tg. .

Beside the question of rank comes that of serviceservice in the Military Home Hospital Reserve does not count as service towards military badges, long service medals, etc. The Brigade man who gives up so much of his time for the public good surely deserves this recognition if he adds army work to it. Could not this be rectified?

The uniform consists of an arm badge, which may be worn with plain clothes. Serviceable, perhaps; smart and attractive, celtainly not; suitable for work in a surgical ward, emphatically no.

Could not the Government, considering what this reserve would save them in money (which they can estimate) and alleviation of suffering and diminished mortality (which they cannot estimate), see their way to provide the uniform (khaki) of the R.A.M.C. with the Brigade Badge on the right upper arm?

The question of pay is one which is, and always will be, a difficulty, but possibly an annual retaining fee might be granted. Again, what would be saved in money and lives when war broke out might counterbalance this outlay.

The period of service should, when called up, be compulsory for three months, and extension of such service be voluntary. A man would then know what he promises to do, and, if the conditions attracted sufficient numbers, the work in the military hospitals could be done, so to speak, in three monthly reliefs; and, apart from the men being satisfied, patriotic employers might assist and permit men to be away from their work for three months, but be absolutely unable, however willing, to spare them for a longer time, and consequently have to replace them.

The training of the Military Home Hospitals Reserves should be carried out in the military hospital in which they are to serve, or if they live too far away, in the military hospital nearest to them. Spare hours, which they can devote to this work, should first be utilised, and later it will be found that the week now permitted for certain grades will, if made be accepted by all.

There are many military hospitals in Great Britain where the Brigade belonging to the district could have both a pleasant and instructive summer outing, and I cannot help thinking that if, in this way, the Brigade as a whole were int? .touch not only vV'ith hospital work, but the workmg of mIlitary hospitals, such outing would be welcomed by its members, and not only the Military Home Hospitals Reserve but the Brigape itself be largely increased, both in numbers and efficiency.

DISCUSSION.

Colonel Atwood Thorne, v.D., said that as he was endeavouring to organise the 4th County of London General Hospital he was particularly interested in the subject. He had hoped that, after the recent memorandum issued by the St. John Ambulance Brigade he had little more to do than to apply to the S.J.A.B. for all the men he wanted. Unfortunately the recruits were not forthcoming, although the various requests of Lieut.-Colonel Twiss were granted in the case of the Territorial Army, that is, pay, army rules, uniform, and to a large extent provision was made for families. He was distinctly disappointed at the result up-to-date, as to the recruiting for

Septem ber, 19 0 8 -FIRST

NO.4, but he fully realized that tremendous demands were already made on the St. John Ambulance Association, in the reserve which it kept for the army and navy.

Dr. F. F. Bond, Civil Surgeon in charge of "H " Bearer Company, St. John Ambulance Brigade, was sorry that Lieut.-Colonel Twiss was absent, and thal he had not included a full descri ption of the three varieties of reserves from the St. John Ambulance Brigade Bearer Company's Royal Naval Sick Berth Reserve and the Home Hospitals Reserve. There appeared to be a great lack of knowledge in the Royal Army Medical Service of the value and relative positions of these reserves. He was also sorry that Lieut.-Colonel Twiss had not drawn more distinction between the position of the rank and file and the officers. As a Bearer Company Officer, he found that when up for training he was always made very happy in the Mess, but the fact of not holding a rank when up for training, which they would when mobilised, caused. a rather distinction and prevente::i many medlcal men takLOg up the position. There was a good reserve of men in the St. John Ambulance Brigade of a higher type, who could undertake the obligations of the Territorials and who would not sink their identity of being St. John Ambulance men, but who could be relied upon for duty when necessary. It might be a good idea if the lady nurses could attend a training at a military hospital. ...

The President said that as regards uttllzmg the services of ladies who had passed the nursing classes of the St. John Ambulance Association in the territorial general hospitals, he could only say that the matter had not been lost sight of, but that hitherto lady nurses had not been employed in any military hospital unless they had had three full years' training in a hospital of not less than a hundred beds. The question of affording honorary or temporary rank to officers and bearer companies whe? up for their annual training he suggested should be submItted to the Central Executive Committee at St. John's Gate. Of course, when called up for duty on mobilisat.ion, whether as Bearer Companies or for the Home Hospltals Reserve, presumably rank would be granted and pay at army rates, and the non-commissioned officers and men would wear a khaki uniform with their own badge.

Colonel Wilson drew attention to the fact that only men of the St. John Ambulance Brigade were eligible for the Home Hospitals Reserve, and they would .not be permitted to join the Territorial General Hospitals. The Territorial General Hospitals could avail themselv.es of candidates from the Association but not from the Brtgade, as this had already undertaken sufficient responsibility in connection with the preparation for war.

Letters to the Editor.

We are in no way responsible jor the opinions expressed, or the statements made, by Corre sp ondents.-EDITORS.

THE S.J.A.B. AND THE TERRITORIAL FORCES.

SIR, - I crave the indulgence of and reade.rs for returning once more to the above questIon F If.St, I to thank Surgeon Capt. Helm Montague for hIS kmd. adVice. I referred to paragraph 2? of the Brigade but I must candily confess I fall to see what It upon the objectionable brigade order referred to In my prevIous let.ter; however, [he order in has been somewhat modified by the issue of B.O. [39, In It IS made clear that members of the medical staff of the bngade are not affected by B.O. 137· d' . 1 'd 1 So far so good; but even now the. Itlons al c own appear to me to be contrary to the Sptrlt of the agreement

AI D.- 47

which I understood had been arived at by the Order of St. John and the Army Council. Had this B.a., I wonder, the approval and san ction of the AI my Council before it was issued? To my mind it appears to ha ve been framed som ewhat in a spirit of opposition to the C i rcular Memorandum No. 65, dated July 2nd, 1908, and issued by Sir Edward \V a rcl on behalf of the Army Coun ci to Secretaries of County Territorial Forc es. Let any fair-minded individual outside both Associations read them side by side and tell your readers whether they appear likely to lead to harmonious working.

Apologising for again trespassing on your valuable space, whi ch I would not have done did I not feel that a most serious situation has been createc1.-1 a111 sir, yours faithfully, " IESTTLESlOl\lETER."

DEAR SIR,-Being in a similar pos ition to your correspondent " .IEsthesiometer," i.e., holding H.M. Commission in the Territorial Force, and being also an hon. surgeon, S.J.A.B., I can fully sympathis"! with his remarks, and cordially endorse his expression" at the instigation of an Autocratic c iv ilian authority" (s ee July iss ue of FIR ST Am )."

Since" lEsthesiometer's" letter was written, however, an amendment has been issued ( B.O. 139) making an exception in favour of "officers of district staffs, and all medical officers." In my opinion. however, this does not improve matters. Everyone connected with ambulance work, must recognise that the the medical staff is vital to the very existen c e of both S.J.A.B. and S.J.A.A., it therefore strikes me as being somewhat strange that the Chief Commissioner should allow to belong to the two units the very men upon whom the S.J.A.B. relies for its existence, and whom, therefore, one would think must above all others, be bound to the S.J .A.B. There is another point, which will doubtless affect many besides myself (i n spite of B.a. 139 )·

Roughly speaking, about 50 per cent. of my St. John Division belong also to the Territorial Forces. If this order ( B.O. 137 ) is to remain effective I fancy that the major ity of the members affected will resign the S.J.A.B. in favour of the Territorial Force, thereby depriving my d ivisio n of a large percentage of its best members..

I n that case, can the Chief 'Co mmlssloner reasonably expect me to take the acti ve interest in a division seriously depleted of" mind and matter " that I have previously don.e?

Another point (a nd I feel that lowe you many apologies for so largely encroaching upon your valuable space ).

In B.O. 139, one finds that "Medical Office rs who enlist in the Territorial Force should consider themsel ves bound ill izonour not to make use of their position in the Brigade to induce Brigade men to join the I emphat ic ally .that. thiS IS absolutely the best man in my oplmon, IS he who belongs to both umts. The St. Tohn' teaches hi m his first aid,. and the teaches him in drill, and I regard thiS as an exhIbition of "small-mindedness" that one does not expect to emanate from the " Seats of the Mighty."

Furthermore, have the" powers " that wOlild be any duly constituted authority to what a man .shall, or shall , not do in his spare time, prOVided he does h iS duty as St. John man. See General Regulations S.J.A.B. Rule 2, Qualifi cation for Membership. "

I wonder if the Chief Com.mlssloner the fact that the Territorial Force prOV ides a With unlfor.m equipment gratiS, also affords an opportumty of a fortl11 g ht m camp (a fine of work and play by the way ), also jays him for It. On the contr.ary, the S.J.A.I? allows him to 'wear ul11form, and also allo7.us him to. pay for It out of own pocket, and also expects to 111 the upkeep of hiS division by an annu8.1 subsCrIption? ThiS lJ?ay .be a rather " low-down)) point of view, but all the same It wtll appeal to most men, and it \V.ill be the S.J.f\.B. that suffers. - I enclose m card, anr! remam, SIr, yours faithfully, y LIEUT R.A.M.C.T. and HON. SURG S.J.A.13.

DEAR SIR, - It is as I funy e,xpected, B.a. 137 was aimed onl at the rank-and-file of the Brigade, and as a humble be/of the class affected I beg to a strong agamst it. As I implied in my letter which appeared 111 your July

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number, if any good reason could have been show n for its application the authorities would have been justified in the course they have taken; but from my own personal knowled ge I feel sure that some of the best and most regular attendants at drill and duty are men connected with both organ isations, and under proper conditions there would be no necessity for their duties in either to clash. B.O. 137 says, " It should be clearly understood that the Brigade supplements the Regular Army." That being so, what possible objection can there be to a member of the Brigade joining the R.A.M.C. (Territorial). By so doing his position would be somewhat analogous to that of a member who joined one of the Brigade Dearer Companies or the Royal Naval Auxiliary Sick Berth Reserve of the S.J.A.B. He would be taking his place in the defensive forces of the country, and only in the event of national emergency would the claims of the State override his obligations to the Brigade, and in this connection he would stand on an exactly similar foot ing as his brother in the Brigade Bearers Company or the R.N.A.S.B.R.

With regard to B.O. 137, the two concluding paragraphs, I and 2, reyuire a legal training to interpret their exact meaning. Paragraph I sugge<:ts the return of the prodigal to the fold at the expiration of his first year of enlistment in the Territorials. Paragraph 2, by implication, suggests that he has never Jeft it, as it insists on his maintaining his efficiency in accordance with Brigade Regulations.

Truly the ways of the wise sometimes pass the comprehens ion of ordinary mortals.-Yours truly,

A TERRIER AND ME:\IBER OF THE S.J.A.B.

FIRE DRILL IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

SIR,·-Allow me to inform your correspondent. A. C.

AI D.- September, 1908.

Myers, that I do not speak from theory, but from facts gained by actual experience in roy personal contact with a school accommodating some 300 children in the 3 departments. I have yet to see our present system of fire drill enable a school of this class turn out in the time of I to 2i minutes. I find that the time chosen for the sounding of the alarm is nearly always just on the point of playtime, when every scholar is practically waiting to scamper out. Is this a fair test?

I know that periodical visits are made by inspectors and sub-committees; that just recently, owing to the instructions of the Board of Education, these officials have been round and sanctioned the expenditure on certain things which the Board insisted must be done; such as the provision of outside doors made to open either in or out; that where onlione exit existed for a certain number of children another should be provided, in the form of an iron emergency staircase. But this was compulsion, not choice. Yet, in spite of these visits, class-room doors still open inwards, fire-pails are used for umbrella stands, and at this particular school no key has been seen in the door of the emergency staircase for the last six years. These are facts: 1,300 on the premIses, no fire hydrant or extinguisher; and yet they visit for the safety of the children.

Drill we want, but let it be practical, or do not be alarmed at the result.- Yours truly, "FlRE DRILL."

[We think if our correspondent is absolutely sure of his facts, it is his duty to lay the matter before the proper authorities, and in not taking- this course he is almost laying himself open to the charge of being an accessory to the fact-legally, perhaps not; but morally, decidedly. - ED. " F.A."]

Rescue Apparatus for

The ONLY one of MAKE on the

The FLEUSS-SIEBE-GORMAN

to Memory

To Our Readers.

As it is the wi sh and desire of the Proprietors to make thi s Journal as in structive and entertaining as possible, correspond en ts in all parts of the country are asked to giye it all the help they can.

Superintendents of Corps and Officers of Divisions of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, Officers of the Royal Army Medical Corps (Volunteers), the Volunteer Ambulance School of Instruction, and Ch ief Orficers of Fire Brigades will, it is hoped, do their best to mak e it known among t the members of their respective organisations, and will also send for puhlication their official new s and notices. Suggest tions are invited [or Prize Competitions and other matters which will advance the intere st of the Journal.

vVe particularly desire to ask our correspondents to be brief and to the point in any communications they may send us for publication.

Correspondents sendi ng in photos are urgently requested to state on the back of the same the name of the individual or the Corps or Brigade, and give also the name and address of the sender.

vVe beg to advise our readers that we do not pay for photographs or copy sent, unle ss previously agreed upon in writing.

" First Aid" is published on the 20th of the month.

EDITORIAL.

a tactical error had been committed in the issuing of the original order. Would it not therefore have been wiser, or more discreet, to have withdrawn the obnox ious order in its entirety, instead of attempting to modify it? We are inclined to answer this query in the affirmative. Indeed, we will go still further, and admit that although we have given serious thought to the 1uestion we have hitherto failed to find any good or sufficient reason for the promulgation of the order. We believe we are correct In stating that for many years past, indeed ever since the inception of the Brigade, members of the Auxilliary Forces have been enrolled within its ranks. Have these men in the past proved undesirable, have they been wanting in loyalty or negligent in their duties?

From all the enquiries that we have made, we gather that quite the contrary is the case. The men belonging to the Auxilliary Forces have been amongst the most regular in attendance at drill or duty, and O\ving to the habits of discipline inculcated by their military training they have proved most valuable examples for their purely civilian comrades.

The S.J.A.B. and the Territorial Army.

GENERAL and widespread seems to be the feeling of irritation which has been aroused in the ranks of the St. John Ambulance Brigade by the promulgation of an order from the Chief Commissioner forbidding its members to enlist in the Territorial Army. That this feeling is not confined to the humble private, is amply borne out by the large amount of correspondence which we have received on the subject Ambulance and medical officers alike have written us, protesting against the order as an unwarrantable attack upon their actions as private individuals. It may be argued that the matter is one with which we as an unofficial Journal have no concern, and it may be regarded as presumptious on our part to presume to criticise this order. But, in reply to this contention we would remind our readers, that this Journal was brought into existence primarily to safeguard the privileges of the Brigade, and although it long since passed out of the hands of its original founders, it has never gone back on its old traditions.

The modification of Brigade Order 137 by the issue of Brigade Order 139 proves that the authorities admitted that

If these facts are as stated, we ask where comes in the necessity for such an order? We have been informed, but we cannot credit it, that military Vobnteers are not popular at Headquarte rs. It must not be forgott en that the Sovereign of these realms is also the Sovereign Head and Patron of the Order of St. John, and, at th e creation of the new Territorial Army, he summoned a meeting of the Lord-Lieutenants of the several counties, and intim a ted to them his desire, that they should do all that lay withi n their power, to make the new force an effective part of his army. Furthermore, it is well known to our readers that both the Director and the Assistant-Director of the Ambulance Department of the Order of St. John are chairmen of County Associations, and, by virtue of that office, pledged to use their best endeavours to promote the success of the Territorial Army. Do these two gentlemen approve of an order, which, directs " officers of the Distrid Staff and medical officers who eJllist in the Te1'ritorials to consider tlze17lselves boun d in hOJlOU1' ?tot to make ?lse of their position ill tIle Bngade to induce Bngade 1J1871 to join tile T er ritorials." We can hardly think so. We have been asked to express our views, and

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we have done so, and have spoken out plainly. We have no desire to dictate-indeed we unreservedly admit we have no right to do so-but we cannot but recognise that a very serious crisis, involving perhaps the very existence of the Brigade, has been rais ed by this question, and we feel that we should be lacking in our duty did we not, with all d eference, urge upon the authorities the desirability of at once abrogating an order, the existence of which can only act prejudically against the best interests of the corps, which has done so much to enhance and uphold the best traditions of this grand and historic Order.

In conclusion, we may say that we have made enquiries from the St. Andrew's Ambulance Association as to whether that organisation had issued any order prohibit ing memb e rs of its Corps from joining the Territorial Forces, and in reply we have been advised that far from prohibiting such action they encourage their members to join the Territorial Forces. Surely, if in the northern part of the kingdom, it is not considered detrimental that an individual should belong to both forces, there can be no valid reason why another individual in the south should not also be enrolled in both Brigade and Territorials.

We think it will be conceded that we have dealt with this question in a fair and impartial manner, and in no spirit of hostilIty to th e Order of St. John. We are too fully conscious of the debt this country owes to the Order and its several Departments, and it is mainly because we appreciate and value very highly its B ;igade of self-sacrificing volunteers, that we should deplore any scheme which. might have the tendency to check its progress or militate against its career of usefulness.

The Practical Use and Value Colliery Rescue=Apparatus, and Organisation of Rescue Corps. *

By GEORGE BLAKE WALKER.

AID. - October, 1908.

based upon the rules as drawn up for German collieries, but modified to suit the conditions of British mining. The following paper bas been submitted to and approved by Mr. Meyer, and may be regarded in the main as being his own paper.

In England the value (or rather, the necessity) of being in a position to cope with accidents resulting from fires or explosions underground is just beginning to be realised. These dangers are bad enough on the surface, but underground they are tenfold more terrible. The expenditure on apparatus to deal with them is, therefore, of the nature of an insurance fund.

(I) Rescue appliances should repay their cost in the preservation of valuable property, in addition to the humanitarian idea of saving life. The latter object is liable to overshadow the former; but the writer wishes to urge that rescue appliances will pay for themselves where ever there is any liability of fires or outbursts of gas to occur, and that at such places it will be good policy to have them. Again, when fires do occur in modern pits they are terribly destructive; the ventilating current carries the flame on and feeds the fire, and, in the early stages, moments are all important in regard to the possibility of extinguishing the flames. For this purpose, artificial breathing-apparatus is of the greatest value.

At a large colliery in Canada, in which two pits were lost for many months by underground fires, it is believed these might have been extinguished had Pneumatophores been available within the first hour; and no'¥, after such sad experience, the colliery company has provided itself with a complete equipment. The cost incurred through one bad fire will pay for a large installation of rescueapparatus.

(2) The next point to be considered is that all forms of modern rescue-apparatus depend on chemical reactions for their efficacy and, if not in perfect order, they are not only useless but dangerous. Hence they can only be entrusted to skilled persons as caretakers, and can only be kept in working order in properly equipped stations. Continued immunity from accident must in course of time, lead to slackness in the care of such apparatus, and some system of periodical inspection should be altogether independent of the owners of the station.

of the

AT the International Life-Saving Congress, held at Frankfort-on- the -:Main: in the Whitweek of the present year (1908), a paper embodytng a set of rules for the organisation of rescue-corps and the use of artificial-breathing rescueapparatus in mines, was read by Mr. G. A. Meyer, director of the Shamrock Collieries, Westphalia, and his colleague, Dr. H:.tgemann. This paper em bodies the result of the experience of many years on the subject of which it treats by the men who are admittedly tbe first experts on subject. It was Mr. Meyer's intention to prepare a translation of this paper for the Institute of Mining EngineErs' but, having regard to the differences in the and staff of German, as compared with English collieries, he has aske d the writer to prepare a short paper

* A Paper read at the General Meeting of th e In s titute o r Mining Engineers held Edtnburgh, September 2nd. Thi s paper s pLlhl lshed hy kmd perrm SSlO n or the In stit ut e or Mining Engineers.

(3) For the same reason it may be desirable that the efficiency of the appointed recue-men should be tested from time to time by some independent persons specially appointed.

(4) When it has been decided to form a rescue-corps at a colliery, there must be an organisation of the personnel with the responsible manager at its head. It is very important that tbis work should not be left to subordinate officials, but that the responsible manager should take a personal and individual interest in, and responsibility for, its efficient working. He should require that at certain quarter-days reports signed by the responsible persons should be produced to him, and he should countersign these reports and present them as a matter of routine to the board of directors at their next meeting. The manager should once a year, at least, review the corps and see the members go through their practices. When the rewards, which will be referred to later, are made, the chairman of the company or managing director should award them, so as to prove to the men that the company take a serious interest in the rescue work.

(5) Under the manager should be a captain, to whom the management and supervision of the rescue work in all its branches should be specially confided. It should be his duty:-

October, 19 08 -FIRST

(a) To see that the apparatus is properly attended to and that supplies of everything needful are at hand. He should receive a weekly report from the caretaker, which should be countersigned by the captain and dated. Notes on requisitions or defects should be made to him on such reports.

(b) To select suitable men for rescue work. These men must be of good character, sober, trustworthy, and such as are always to be relied on to be at hand when wanted. Nervous and excitable men should not be enlisted. Physical fitness is the first consideration, and every unit must be certified by a doctor to be healthy and vigorous and of sound constitution.

(c) To arrange tbe practices and see once a week the reg ister of the attendances at the practices and the work done, togetber with the reports of the inspector on the performances of the men. These reports should also be co untersigned and annotated.

(d) To take the direction of the rescue work whenever tbis is called fOT, to organise the working-parties, and to be the medium through which the direction of the manageme nt should pass to the men who may be sent into the mine (so far as these are equipped with special apparatus).;

(6) Parties and L eade rs.- The unit of a rescue p'1rty sho uld be five, one of these being tlte leader, who would be in command. He should be a mine official, and, besides bei ng educated and intelligent, must be thoroughly trained in wearing the apparatus. Two of the men should be supe rior workmen (it is desirable that one should be a fitter or mechanic); one of the two should be competent to replace the leader in case anything should happen to him, whilst the other two may be merely strong labourers, but intellige nt.

The leader's special duty would be to direct and see to the safety of bis party. It should be understood that he should not do work when in charge, otherwise he could not keep watch on his men. He must be well acquainted with the mine, and the details of the ventilation. (Alteration s in the ventilation should be posted in the rescue station, and every such notice should be by leader to show that he has perused it). When 111 the mll1e with his party, it would be his duty to observe the state of the apparatus of each man, including the reserve of. oxygen and the physical condition of each man. If pOSSIble, he should carry a telephone and a light roll of wire communicating with a base.

When a party has entered a mine after an accident, an d such mine can be safely pentrated without apparatus to a certain point, a base should be formed at some suitab le place, where a reserve party can wait in to relieve the party which has penetrat.ed tbe foul. aIr.. The laborious work of bringing out bodIes or workmg 111 gas should be shortened as much as possible by means of such a base. Besides this, it affords the means of succour to the rescue party itself, in case it should get into difficulties.

A rescue troop should consist of four parties of five men each. At a large colliery there would naturally be several troops. The members should have some distinctive badge, and should be encouraged to compete for the credit of being tbe most efficient.

(a) Members should only be enlisted as In work of this kind no pressure ougbt to be used. ApplIcations to join should be made in writing to one of the leaders, who should forward it to the captain.

(b) Applicants should not be under 25 or over 45 years of age

(c) Applicants must submit themselves to a medical examination.

A I D.- 51

(d) Applicants must resict.e within a mile of the pit. Any member of a rescue corps who once disobeys the orders of his superior, or who refuses to come forward when called upon, should be dismissed from the corps. Any member may retire whenever he wishes, but any man retiring should not be re-admitted except for special reasons. The captain may grant temporarily withdrawal from the corps for such time and on such conditions as he may think fit.

(7) Training .-The training of rescue men should take place at the station, where there will be a competent instructor or inspector. The instruction to each party should be given by the leader of the party, but in the preof the instructor, so that the teaching may be uniform. A recruit is admitted for training, but only becomes a recognised member of the rescue corps when he is reported as qualified (in writing) by the instructor to the captain. The captain (if satisfied) will then issue to the recruit a card of membership.

The test to be gone through by each recruit should be as follows :-

(a) Ez:nciency.- Uninterrupted work in foul air for two hours, wearing artificial-breathing apparatus. Half the time raising a weight by means of a rope and pulley, with intervals during which some form of underground labour should be performed, such as setting timber or brattice, building, or creeping over obstructions.

(b) Knowledge of Apparattts.-An examination of an hour's duration, in which the recruit must satisfy the instructor that he understands the principle and working of the apparatus.

Admitted members of tbe corps must make four practices a year, wearing the apparatus. These tests to include the strength and endurance-test, raising the weight, and such practical exercises as are likely to be useful in rescue work in the mine. If any member at the quarterly practice is not considered efficient, he may be called upon to perform additional practices. !he captain shou!d personally inspect these quarterly practIces. All d ep utIes, v:hether they belong to the rescue corps or not, should practIce the use of the breathing-apparatus twice a year.

(8) While the main inducement to join a corps will usually be a noble desire to be able. to save lIre, any men willing to take the risks should be lIberally paId. In Germany, the proposed scale for men who fulfil thei.r duties for a full year is as follows :-Leaders, £4; nary mem bers, £2. To these amounts are added 4 S 111 every subsequent year to leaders, and 2S. to, men,. up to fifteen years thus, at the end of years cont111uous service, the leaders would be recelv111g £2 I6s., and the men £1 8s. additional, making £6 16s., and £3 8s., respectively. Men who continue to serve after fifteen years should have a medal and fifteen years' scale plus 50 per cent.

When men are called upon for .work ground, where it is necessary to apparatus, a high rate of should be paId, say SS. per hour, with a minimum of £ I.

(9) Cantaker.-(a) The caretaker must be a fullytrained mem ber of the rescue corps, who has gone through and obtained all necessary certificates. He understand scientifically the construction and pnnClple of the apparatus of which he has cha!,ge (he ought to bave had a course of chemistry at a techmcal school), and must be a handy workman.

(b) The caretaker is responsible that every part of the apparatus and stores are in stock to the prescribed schedule, and he has to report 111 wntmg to

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the captain veekly as to th e completeness and quality of his stock.

(c) He will have to see that all the materials necessary for the practices are supplied, and the apparatus charged for use.

(d) To cleanse thoroughly and wash the apparatus after use ; and

(e) To superintend the work of any assistant.

(IO) hI Cas e of Accident.-(a) The principal rescue station should be connected by telephone with all the pits for which it serves.

(b) Where telephones are erected in the workings of a mine, they should be arranged for communicating with the time-keeper or someone who is always on duty.

(c) So soon as the time· keep er rece ives warning of an accident, he must a t once communicate with the surface manager and send word to the captain and the general

AI D.- October, 1908.

The captain (or his acting substitute) should, immediately after party has been arrange for further partIes 111 support, see to theIr bell1g properly equipped, and assign to them the precise duties that they are to perform.

The duty of seeing that a sufficient supply of oxygen and other necessities for renewing the apparatus are as close as possible to the scene of the accident should be entrusted to a qualified expert.

(II) When a unit has been formed to enter a min e arter an accident, the leader of the party must be satisfied that the work assigned to him is within the competence of his party, and he is not bound to take any man of whos e capacity he is doubtful. Preferably, men accustomed to work together should be selected.

In entering foul air the advance should be made in close formation, the leader in front and the others keepin g

October\ 1908

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guilty of gross breach of discipline, and should forfeit his claim to reward.

As soon as a point in the mine is reached where foul a ir prevails, a base or place of refuge should be established; a nd at such base there should be a second party, or at least two men with a leader, or a deputy who is equipped with the apparatus, two spare sets of apparatus, one oxygenreviver, and one stretcher. The base should be connected by telephone with the pit-top.

Where work can be done within a comparatively short distance from the fresh air, and other circumstances permit, and the work is of a laborious kind, helmets supplied with air by tubes and forced by pressure pumps are preferable to Pneumatophores.

Messages and orders should be transmitted to the leader of a rescue party by telephone, and a record kept in writing of such messages and the replies. Records should be kept, both at the receiving point on the surface and at the base underground. Men working in gas are not expe cted to make notes. Leaders should, however, carry note-books, and when not in foul air anything important should be put on record.

(I 2) A transcript of all notes and messages should be ma de by a clerk for the captain, who, after the accident, will make a full report on all the circumstances of the resc ue work, in which a summary of these notes will be embo died.

In such report the captain should point out the lessons to be drawn from the experience obtained at the accident, and read it at a meeting of the mem bers of the rescue cor ps within a fortnight, while all the circumstances are fresh in their minds.

The writer gathers that what is likely to be done in Engla nd is to have central rescue stations maintained by the Coal Owners' Associations. In Germany each large colliery firm will have its own station. But, so long as too many collieries are not served by one station, the result will be the same. It is, however, of the greatest importance that the training of the rescue corps at the various collieries sho uld be as equal as possible, and that when an accident happens each colliery should be prepared to furnish its ow n troops, and only rely on its neighbours for extra support.

[SOlltit Trales Dally News.

By courtesy]

ANNUAL INSPE CTION OF THE RHONDDA FAWR CORPs.-MARCH PAST OF THE CORPS. offices, who will telephone to the rescue station. The surface. manager will at one summon one or more rescue the of which are above-ground at the and the captam, as soon as he arrives on the scene, WIll take command. !he will be determined by the of the mll1e, who will ll1struct the captain as to what IS to be The captain, on the arrival of the m.en, WIll gIve them their instructions, and see to theIr eqUlpme.nt. In the absence of the captain, the manager or the highest underground official available will take over his duties.

o.n receiving a summons, or on hearing that a fire or exploslOn occurred, every official trained in the use of the breathl?g-apparatus, and every member of the rescue corI?s who IS above ground, must hasten to the ambulance station, ?r other appointed rendezvous, and place himself at the dIsposal of the captain.

close to him. When a point is reached at which there is work to be done, the leader will distribute his men, but no one must be allowed to work alone.

As a rule the leader would carry nothing but his lamp and apparatus. Next to him would follow two men carry!ng tools, and lastly two men carrying a stretcher, oxygen111haler, etc.

It is the duty of the leader to keep himself informed as far as possible while his men are working, as to the state of the r:nanometers indic.ating the reserve of oxygen. He must WIthdraw the men In ample time to allow of their safe withdrawal from the foul air, and he must act as if the distance to a place of safety was 50 per cent. farther away than it actually is.

When the signal has been giyen to return, any member of the party who refuses to retIre should be considered

For the second year in succession the Newcastleunder-Lyne Team have won the "Tunstill Memorial" Challenge Shield, the competition for which took place at Brierfield, on Saturday, October 3rd. The second and third place was won by Nelson and Compton respectively. Sergt. Holgate, of Nelson, gained the individual pri ze in the contest.

The Chapter-General of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem at a meeting held during November last, awarded the Service Medal of the Order in recognition of conspicuous services to the Ambulance Department to Major G. Barclay, YD., of Auckland, thf Deputy Commissioner in charge of the S.J.A.B. for the Dominion of New Zealand. The presentation of the medal was made by His Excellency the Govenor (Lord Plunket) on behalf of H.R.H. the Prince of Wales (Grand Prior), at the "YIilitary Review held at Auckland, on August loth, upon the occasion of the visit of the U.S.A. Fleet to New Zealand.

WHEN OORRESPONDING WITH ADVERTISERS PLEASE MENTION .• FIRST AlD."

AID.-

Poisoning.*

By HEATON c. HOWARD, M.R.C.S., L.R.c.P., Lmm.

THE subject of poisoning, with its symptoms and treatment, has always seemed to me to be one th::1t first aiders only comprehended with great difficulty, and whether it is the of the subject itself, or of the way it is put before them 111 the text-books, or of both, I do not know' still I must admit that to the mind of the layman, the and of the various poisons are. somewhat confusing. If then, ca? .be done to Simplify the subject, or to Impress It more vlVldly on the mental camera it will be a distinct gain, and wh ether I shall succeed re-arranging the section in a differe nt manner, I do not know, but with the Editor's permission I will make an attempt.

As is well known to first a id ers , poisons are divided

into three classes-irritants, corrosives and narcotics. When anyone is called to a case of poisoning there IS some prominent symptom showing itself in the patient ; it is the symI?tom you have to grasp and examine, and from It you learn the nature of the poison, and the remedy you have to apply.

* Thi s article was written by Dr. Heaton C. Howard and published in this Journal some years back. ;\t request ot some of our readers we have consented to reproduce It fO! the bene,fit of new subscribers - the original copies in which it bemg of print. We have submitted article to 111 he desire to make any alteratIOn, but Dr. IIo\l aId th,lt he considers the article in its present form fully meets all reqUIrements.

It is on these lines I propose to treat the subject, therefore I shall discuss each symptom separately.

Just a few words on cases of poisoning generally. On being called to a case you find evidence of what the poiwn is apart from the patient's symptoms; in fact, unless it is a case of murder, or of suicide in which it is possible for the patient to make away with all traces of the drug before he is attacked by the symptoms, you will discover the receptac\e-a cup, glass, bottle or piece of paper -containing the remains of the poison. If, on a cursory examination of the room you do not ascertain the nature of the poison, or there is no one present who can give the necessary information, do not waste any time, but devote your whole attention to the patient and the symptoms he is suffering from. Be careful that any vomited matter is not moved out of the room, it should be kept for inspection by the doctor. It is hardly necessary for me to mention that the services of a doctor should be obtained as speedily as possible. The evidence of a first aider (who can exercise his common sense) as to the condition, position and appearance of the patient and his surroundings might be of value, and is certainly more to be depended upon than that of the relatives or people in the house, who, as a rule, "lose their heads" on occasions of this kind.

It is somewhat difficult to draw the line as to what poisons to mention and what to omit, but I think it will be sufficient to give those that are commonly taken either by accident or design, and the symptoms of ,which come on suddenly. Cases of slow poisoning, such as by lead, or arsenic in daily doses, will not be dealt with.

Each prominent symptom will be described with the method of examination appropriate to each.

INs ENSIBILITY.

This is a symptom that is always produced by narcotic pOlsons, and some other poisons as well; the time that elapses between the taking of the poison and the insensibility. varying according to the drug. In all cases where there IS no external of the poison, the patient must be closely eX::l.mIne,d by you in order to try and find the nature of the pOison. In conducting this examinatlOn you must be careful to take note of the following :Look at eyp.s and observe the pupils-whether large or sm.lIl, or If they respond to light, examine the mouth and smell the breath, see if there are any marks about the tongue and lips, observe the colour of the face note the breathing, and see if there. are ,stains about the fingers or In cases of lnsenslblltty, even if you are told that a pOlson has been taken, it is just as well to remem ber that the dose may be small and the condition may possibly be caused by a fit, concussion, etc.

all the limbs are quite flaccid, the face pale, the heavy, the pulse slow, :skin cold, pupils dilated, WIth a strong. of some variety of alcohol in the breath, th.e pOIson IS alc.ohol. If the patient is not very far gone, It may. be pOSSible to rouse him. In poisoning by ether, the signs ,are similar, but the effects pass off sooner, and the pecultar smell of the drug is noticed.

If the face IS pale or dusky, and the pupils of the eye very much contracted, the poison is opium. The breathing becomes shallow, the pulse quick and weak.

In p01somng by the symptoms are practically the same as tllat by opIUm, and the treatment is the same.

In of chloroform the insensibility is profound, with dIlated pupils, and the smell of the drug in the breath.

Cases where l!fe is in danger from inhalation of chloroform are not likely to come under your notice .

October, 190 8.

If the unconsciousness comes on almost immediately, followed by convulsions and great difficulty in breathing, eyes fixed and glistening, pupil3 dilated, then the limbs become flaccid and the skin cold and clammy, with a smell of bitter almonds in the breath, the poison is prussic acid or cyanide of potassium, and it is generally fatal in a few minutes.

In the latter stages of poisoning by carbolic acid unconsciousness comes on after the vomiting, etc.

In considering a case of insensibility, it is just as well to remember that the condition may be produced by noxious gases, such as coal gas, carbonic acid gas, etc. VOlVIITING.

There are various points to take note of in a patient suffering from this symptom. A cursory examination of the vomited matter may give you a strong hint as to the nature of the poison. You will observe what it consists of -whether food only or frothy substatlce or blood or if there be any strong smell with it, such as that of carbolic acid or opium, &c. It is also advisable to ascertain how soon the vomiting commenced after the taking of the drug and how long it has continued. You will also probably observe whether pain accompanies the symptom and where it is located. Look at the lips and mouth for any white or yellowish coating.

Vomiting is a symptom produced by strong acids and alk.alies, by some metallic and vegetable poisons and by pOisonous foods.

If the vomiting be accompanied by intense burning pain in the throat, chest and stomach, and the vomited matter consists of food mixed WIth blood or shreds of mucus, or brown in colour, and there is great difficulty in speaking or swallowing, the poison is one of the strong mineral acids. If in addition the lips are covered with a thick yellow coating, the drug is nitric acid or aqua fortis. If it is a thick white coating the drug is sulphuric acid or oil of vitriol. If the coating is not so thick or somewhat brown, it is caused by hydrochloric acid or spirits of salts.

If the lips are white and shrivelled accompanied by the characteristic smell, it is carbolic acid, which also soon causes increasing drowsiness. If the vomiting and pain, &c., are coupled with a very weak pulse and excessive languor, followed by death within half-an-hour. the poison is oxalic acid otherwise salts of lemon. This is the most speedily fatal of all these acids and very easily procurable. It has often been mistaken for Epsom Salts being very much like it in appearance. Carbolic acid is more often t<:.ken by accicient, being an anicle in com mon use, but the suffc!rings it causes are dreadful. The action of these st,rong on the tissues causes the formation of gas , distendIng the stomach and increasing the pain, Acids stop the action of the bowels, but the alkalies increase it.

If the vomiting and pain be accomp mied by violent purging and the passage of blood the poison is a caustic alkali (soda, potash, or ammonia). In poisoning hy ammonla the "apours may get into the air passages and lungs causing inflammation which is speedily fatal.

In poisoning by mercury (such as corro')ive sublimate) the symptoms are practically the same. There is also a brassy taste in the mouth accompanied by excessive secretion of saliva.

In poisoning by arsenic the vomiting is very like that of a bil ious attack, and comes on about half-an-hour or an hour af[er taking the drug. Painful cramps in the calves of the legs are caused by this drug.

The symptoms of poisoning by other metals or metallic SlIts (phosphorus, chlorides of zinc, tin, antimony,

October, 19 0 8 - F(.t R S l'

nitrate of silve r, &c ), viz.:-Vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhcea, are very much alike, and will probably be unable to be distinguished by the first aider. The vomited matter of phosphorus is luminous in the dark. Generally the vomiting is so violent that the bulk of the poison is ejected, and as the local action of these salts on the tissues is not so corrosive as that of the mineral acids, the results are not so fatal.

The vomiting produced by poisonous foods comes on some time (varying according to different conditions) after the ingestion of the food. The symptoms are not likely to be so urgent as to require your services, and the diagnosis and treatment must be undertaken by a medical man.

(To be contt'nued.) -

The Use of Rescue Appa ratus .

MR. F. W. GREY, of the Dominion Coal Co., Ltd., Glace Bay, Nova Scotia, reports that the "Draeger" Apparatus, belonging to that Company was successfully used recently in extinguishing an underground fire in one of the mines of the Nova Scotia Steel and Coal Company, Sydney Mines, The latter colliery is situated about 20 miles from the central rescue station of the Dominion Coal Company, and is on the other side of Sydn-::y Harbour. Assistance from the station was requested on Thursday, September loth., late in the evening, and about 25 men under the guidance of Supt. McMahon, were got together and proceeded to Sydney Mines, arriving there about 2 o'clock in the morning.

The scene of the fire was about a mile and a quarter from the sh3.ft at the extreme limit of the workings of the Sydney Mines' No. Colliery. The fire had originated -from a blown-out shot and had been burning for about 4 8 hours. The rescue party were able to get down about 50 yards of the fire the helmets, ventIlation being good up to that POlOt. When they arrIved they found that the fire, which had originally been confined to a single room, was spreading up the deep, and there was danger of it coming up the return air-way. The supply of water was irregular and insufficient, owing to the fact the water was carried in air pipes and firemen's hose which were unable to withstand the enormous pressure of the water due to the fact that there was a head of 720 ft. The men fought the fire from 6 am to 4 p.m. in the afternoon and succeeding in driving it back into the room, where the officials of the N. S. Steel Company were able to dam up the room and flood the fire.

The conditions of the test were of the severest nature, the heat was so great that the men could not stand it for more than ten minutes at the outside, when they had to retreat. McMahon says the apparatus got so hot that it burned his hands to handle it. The men appeared to suffer most discomfort from the scalding steam that was given off, and the helmets proved to be a One of the rescue party was of such extraordInary phySIque that no helmet would fit him and he used the MouthBreathing Apparatus. Although he was one of most experienced of fire fighters, he was severely handicapped by not having a helmet and was not able to advance so far as the other men.

When corr'esponding with Advert ise rs please mention "First Aid."

Al

Pic ric Acid in Treatment the of First Burns. Aid

IN the International Journal of Su rger) " for August, Dr. Martin draws attention to the treatment of burns with picric acid, and he recommends its use in the following manner :-

A solution of picric acid is made by dissolving 60 graines of the acid in 16 fluid ounces of sterile water. In this solution sterile gauze is soaked and applied to the burnt surface, this is next covered with rubber tissue and wool, and the whole is held in position by means of a handage.

THE ROBIN HOOD COLLIERY TEAM.

W BOOlh. {'I. Joyce. S. Gledon. J. Carson (caplain).

\VINNER S OF THE SOUTH AND WEST YORKSHIRE AMBULANCE LEAGUE COMPETITION.

The advantages that picric acid has over oily dressings are:-

(1.) It is antiseptic and

(2.) It stimulates the productlOn of new

(3,) It prevents septic infection by absorbIng the discharges from the burnt surface.

(4.) It need not be removed for forty-eight unless septic infection has. ?ccurred, so. that the tIme during which we most shock IS passed before the patient needs to be disturbed for a new dresslOt:>'

(5.) The necessity to tlwroug/t!y I!te bllrnt mr/ace after the application of oily dreSSIngs IS aVOided. .

In ambulance outfits picric acid may be carried in the form of picric acid which IS best applied by moistening in cleaJl 'Water whIch has been first 'Well boiled and then allowed to cool.-F. J. W.

-FIRST Brevities.

WE learn from what we believe is a thoroughly reliable source, that in connection with the Military Home Hospitals Reserve it is intended to give a certain number of commissions to lay members of the St. John Ambulance Brigade who will undertake such responsible dutiee:; as that of Steward or Quartermaster. If it is so, we must express our gratification that the military authorities have realised th':! justice of recognising the Brigade's work in a generous spirit. As our readers know, we have persistently called attention to the subject, and insisted that it was only fair that some recognition should be given to the ambulance officers of the Brigade, seeing that it was to them in a great measure that the rank and file have to look for their training in dnll and practical work. We are convinced that this recognitioll will all tend to still further promote the success of the Hospitals Reserve; and provided special facilities are given, in a financial sense, we are sure that no difficulty will be experienced in securing a very large per centage of the Reserve for annual_ training. It might be possible to arrange such trainings in conjunction with the annual District Camps, the expenses being borne jointly by the Government and the Brigade. Some such scheme would, we believe, be heartily welcomed by the various District Staffs.

WITH reference to Mr. Haldane's proposals that it might be advantageous for the unemployed to consider the advisability of enlisting in the Special Reserve, the drills of which could be arranged for the winter months, several of the Lord-Lieutenants of Counties and Chairmee of Territorial Forces have made interesting communications to the public press on the subject. Amongst others the Marquis Breadalbane and Sir Richard Temple have both given in detail their views on the proposal. Sir Richard pays a warm tribute to Mr. Haldane for the t'fforts he is making to ensure the success of the scheme, and expresses the opinion that it is the duty of all parties to try and strengthen the hands of the War Department. Sir Richard intimates that politically he is not in accord with Mr. Haldane, and that fact makes his pronouncement the more valuable.

* * *

IT is even now a matter of wonder to many members of the Ambulance Brigade as to why the Brigade Conferences have been allowed to drop. Surely, if there was a need for a conference ten years back, with the growth of the movement and the fresh obligations whIch it has undertaken there is a more pressing need for such a gathering to-day: NO·4 District still holds its annual conference. What is good for a district surely should be good for the whole. Matters are brought forward, discussed and if not universally approved are not heard of again. To use the old theory, it is the safety valve, and many subjects which might

AID. - October, I908.

become matters of burning interest, if allowed to ferment unchallenged, are discussed in a friendly spirit, and either relegated to the rear or adopted subject to the requisite permission being obtained from Headquarters.

***

THE delegates always approach these questions in a fair minded spirit, they have no wish to dictate, it would be contrary to their training to do so, but matters are thrashed out temperately and in a businesslike manner. Should a speaker wander away from the recognised path of discussion, he is promptly recalled by the genial but level headed chairman and rarely offends again. We deplore the discontinuance of the annual Brigade Conference. Doubtless the social element played a very large part in its organisation, but that is all for the good of the movement. Men and women make friendships that last a lifetime, and frequently consult each other on matters affecting the conduct of their divisions. Thus much good may often ensue as a result of these friendly gatherings. We have a recollection of one of these meetings which we attended at Blackpool, and we are sanguine that as a result of that little congress, the feeling of good comradeship was increased all round and the spirit of esprit de corps strengthened.

LONDON AMBULANCE SERVIcE.-The Departmental Committee which had been sitting for some time under the chairmanship of Sir Kcnelm Digby to inquire into the ambulance provision which is made in the Metropolis for dealing with cases of sudden illness, will conclude the consideration of its report in the course of about four more sittings. The committee, the only two other mem\:)ers of which are the Earl of Stamford and Sir William Collins M.P., will, it is believed, be unanimous in recommending an extension and reorganisation of the existing system in order that it may be made more in conformity with modern requirements.

:J • E

BRIsToL.-AparadeoftheCityof Bristol Corps was held on Sunday, October I1th. Th<; officers and men, numbering about 16o, met at the headquarters, Union-street, and headed by the Bristol Central Mission Bano, marched to the People's Palace for service, at the kind invitation of the Rev. Geo. Whitley. The pit had been reserved for them.

The Rev. Geo. Whitley in opening his address thanked the men for tu:ning out in such good numb.ers, also for the grand serVIces rendered by them at the1r Sunday meetings during the years they had been held. The grand work which they performed reminded him of the Knight Crusaders of Jerusalem, from whom they took their name. They were truly carrying out the example set by the Great Physician in the good work which proved so beneficial to this great city. It was truly a sacrifice to deny oneself the usual half-holiday at the end of the week to be ready, when duty called, go forth and tend some poor, suffering mortal, or convey h1m to one of those grand institutions of which we are so proud. The officers present were ;-Dr. Chas.

A. chief superintendent; Mr Maynard Froud, superIntendent secretary; Mr. A. Cotton, corps superintenrlent; Superintendents F. Holmes, A. Froud, R. Parker, and C. W. Jupe; Ambulance Officers \Y. Tratt, L. R. Crew, H. Trott and W. Wiggall.

October, I9 08 -FIRST

Our Portrait Gallery.

ROBERT H. MUiR, ESQ., M.D., M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P.

FEW more popular medical men have appeared in our " Gallery" than the gentleman whose portrait appears this month.

Dr. Muir received his early training at the Royal Naval School, proceeding afterwards to Portsmouth Grammar School. In October, I886, he gained a Senior Entrance Scholarship at Cbaring Cross Hospital. In the

lutely just. It is no use the student learning his book " parrot fashion" should he have to face the examination OI:deal at the han?s of Dr. Muir. The doctor speedily recogmses the character of tbe candidate's knowledge, and. the result follows; indeed, we may say Dr. MUlr sets a very h1gh standard for the ambulance certificate and we could only wish that all examiners were like him this respect.

The importance ann value of tbe instruction to railway men is fully recognised by Dr. Muir and in connection with the classes on the South and Chatham Railway he is in constant request both as lecturer and examiner, and as an evidence of his popularity all over the system, at a lecture which he recently gave at Ashford, he had an audience of over 500 men who had travelled from all parts to hear him.

One thing is certain, if the railway men entertain for him a feeling of affectionate regard, it is not to be wondered at, for the worthy doctor is at all times ready to sacrifice his own personal interests rather than break faith with his railway lads. One who knows him well says, "He is a real man, and a firm friend, possessing a heart full of sympathy for those in sickness or distress. Courageous in tbe expression of his opinions, yet withal at all times courteous to those with whom he may differ. "

To write even a brief account of the life work of such a man, as the subject of our sketch, is always a pleasure. One feels that as a result they will gain the sympathy and appreciation of many readers who, having met, and learned to appreciate the value of the man about whom you write, cordially endorse your every kindly wish or sentiment regarding him. Those of our readers, therefore, who belong to the S.E. & c.R. branch of the S.J.A.A. will, we feel sure, re-echo these words and will join with us in tbe hope that for many many years yet to come, first aid work may rely on the skilled assistance and valuen co-operation so readily and cheerfully given by their large hearted friend and doctor.

Twelfth Annual Conference of No. 4 District.

year 189I he obtained the post of junior house surgeon at the Poplar Hospital for Accidents, and in 1892 he received the appointment of hOUSE surgeon at Charing Cross Hospital, subsequently holding tbe appointment of house physician, which he resigned in 1893 to take up the appointmp.nt of resident medical officer to Queen Charlotte's Hospital.

The subject of our sketch took an active interest in, and was a member of the Charing Cross Company, of the Volunteer Medical Staff Corps, during the time tbat its commanding officer was lVIr. James Cantlie.

Charing Cross students have always been for the keen interest they take in all matters connected wlth ambulance work, and it is doubtless well known to many of our readers that it was the first hospital to haye an "Ashford" litter ready day or night, in case of an accident in the Strand.

On settling down into private practice at N ew the doctor continued to manifest his love of first ald work, and he has given several courses of to men and women students. As an examiner he IS much In request for classes, the pupils of which desire to feel that they have earned their pass. He is strict, but abso-

THE annual conference in connection with this important district was held tbis year in the Auditorium, Port Sunlight, Cbeshire, on September 26th, about 400 delegates and friends attended under the presidency of the Deputy Commissioner (Colonel Trimble, C. I.G.).

Prior to the meeting a large num ber of the visitors inspected the Works and Village Institutions and expressed themselves as delighted with the admirable arrangements made to cope with any accident in the works. Placed in different localities, the firm has provided six surgeries, eight ambulance stations, thoroughly equipped with all the necessary appliances for promptly dealing with any accidents which may happen. At each ambulance station a list of ambulance men is posted, any of whom would be available for service in case of emergency. Messrs. Lever insist that all injuries, however trivial, shall be reported at once, rightly holding the opinion that proper attention to slight injuries such as cuts and abrasions may be the means of preventing any serious results therefrom.

In opening the Conference Colonel Trimble expressed the indebtedness of all concerned to 11r. W. H. Lever, I.P., for his kindness in inviting them to hold this Conference at Port Sunlight, the opportunity they bad had of inspecting those marvellous works and for the privilege

-FIRST

of meeting in that beautiful Hall. In conclusion he asked Mr. Lever to kindly say a few words.

Mr. Lever, who met with a most enthusiastic reception, expressed his pleasure at being present, and on behalf of his firm tendered a very hearty welcome to the delegates. In the course of a most full of anecdote and incident, he expressed his admlratlOn for the great work which was bei:Jg done by .the ambulance brigade. A generous compl1ment was paId to qray (Works Manager) and Mr. Atkinson (Supt. of the DlVlslOn) for their whole-hearted work on behalf of the ambulance cause. In concluding, the hon. gentleman assured his hearers that there was no institution connected with Port Sunlight of which they were more proud of than th eir division of the St. John Ambulance Bngade.

On behalf of the Conference, Col. Trim ble thanked Mr. Lever for his kind and flattering remarks, and expressed the pleasure they all felt by the presence of Mrs. Lever. In conclusion, the chairman said: I would like to say that the fact of the brigade meeting here has no bearing on motor accidents to you, sir, we hope you car will go sweeping along for many years, and that Providence in its goodness may watch over you and Mrs. We thank you, sir, and we thank Mr. Gray, and we thank all t?e representatives of your company for the very cordIal welcome you have extended to us this afternoon.

Mr. Lever and party then left, and the chairman proceeded with the agenda, which was a somewhat lengthy one, and the two most importllnt items were the followmg:-

Proposal by Supt. Wolstenholme, Altrincham, "That the opportunities for acquiring a hospital training in the Military Home Hospitals Reserve should be extended to a pri\:ate in a division that has no sergeants in the Reserve."

Proposal by Supt. Ogden, Accrington:-

(a) That this Conference requests the Deputy Commissioner of the District to bring before the notice of the Chief Commissioner the de.,irability of altering Brigade Schedule V., Dress Regulations, so far as regards the following items :-

Head dress, which it is sugge5ted should be a light helmet in black for full dress purposes.

Black putties, in place of leggings.

White gloves for full-dress purposes, for all ranks, which in the case of officers would be white buckskin.

Brigade Badge now worn on the arm to be a small white metal one, and to be worn on the collar-both sides-by all ranks. Officers' of rank to be worn on the shoulder knots.

(b) That in the opinion of this Conference, the rank of lance-corporal should be instituted in the Brigade.

Up to the ti me of going to press we had not received full particulars as to the discussion which ensued, but we believe we are correct in stating that there was a distinctly sympathetic leaning towards the proposals.

At the conclusion of the Conference the delegates, as the gut;sts of Messrs. Lever, <gathered in the Hulme Hall for a most appetising tea, the menu was as follows:-

Cold chicken and ham, Roast beef, Roast lam b, Ox tongue, Pressed beef, Salad, White and brown bread and butter, Cake, French and Swiss Confectionery, Tea, Coffee.

After ample justice had been done to the very excel-

AID. -

October, 1908

lent spread, which was presided over by Mr. Gray, the Deputy Commissioner addressed a few remarks to the delegates. Col. Trimble said he would not : keep them long, but he felt that they could not leave that hospitable board without tendering to Mr. Gray their very cordial thanks for the generous hospItality t.o them. T.hey would be lacking in courtesy and wantmg m appreClatlOn If they separated without according to all for t.he kindly way in which they had been receIved and entertamed: He intended, therefore, to ask the delegates to "whIsper" their thanks in good old Lancashire fashion. In so doing they would demonstrate to Mr. Gray their to t hr: firm which he represented. He asked them to )010 WIth him in thanking Mr. Gray for the kind thought and kind efforts which his firm had made to ensure the success of their conference, and in doing so they wished all success to Messrs. Lever Bros.

The "whisper" was loud and prolonged, and Mr. Gray, in the course of a brief speech, the of his firm at the honour they had paId them by acceptmg their invitation to hold their conference at Port Sunlight. They regarded it as a great honour, and they thanked them for their visit, and were gratified to know that everything had passed off so satisfactorily. They hoped they would renew their visit on a later occasion.

Unge's Aerial Torpedo for Life=Saving Purposes.

ONE of the most interesting exhibits at the recent at the recent First Aid Conference at Frankfort was U nge's Aerial Torpedo. This life-saving apparatus was invented by Lieut.-Col. W. T. Unge, of the Swedish Artillery, and was originally designed for the destruction of war balloons and for other military purposes, and the patents for such were acquired by Messrs. Krupp, of Essen, the apparatus under review, however, is intended for a more peaceful mission, viz., for the purpose of conveying a life-line from shore to ship, ship to shore, or ship to ship, and it is claimed for it that the many drawbacks and imperfections in the present life-line saving rocket have been successfully overcome. In its original form as designed for war purposes the torpedo carried a charge of .high explosive. The torpedo for lIfe-savmg purposes IS of the ordinary form, 14 inches long, 4 inches in diameter, and weighs 201bs. The steel shell contains a charge of 4 lb. of a patent mixture, similar to black powder; this is made up into flat cakes to fit the interior. At the end is a turbine, which gives to the torpedo a rapid rotary motion in its course, thus securing a steadiness and precision of aim not otherwise obtainable. Electric ignition is used in firing, or a fuse can be worked if necessary. The combustible is ignited at the point or muzzle, and the powerful gases generated escape backwards through the hollow centre.

The launching cradle is an iron frame 52 inches long, carried in one side of a box, so constructed that any angle of elevation can be obtained. The shell is placed at the base of the cradle, and a steel collar is held loosely at the other end. This collar is attached to the rocket line by means of a short length of long link chain with swivel, and when fired the torpedo rushes through the ring to within 3 inches of its base, when a ring projection on the torpedo e n gages the collar and carries it, with the line, to its objective. The torp edo was successfully tried recently on

October, 1908. -FIRST

the Mersey, Liverpool, at the suggestion of the War Office with a view to testing its capabilities for line throwing. The patent rights are in the hands of Mr. Gustaf Roos, Hendon, and Capt. Dundas of Birmingham, and full partIculars may be had of the former gentleman.

AID.- S9

self-sacrifice which was so marked a characteristic of the workers in the ambulance cause.

. A capital programme of musical and vocal items mterspersed the several speeches.

G.E. R.-At the Castle Hotel, Cambridge, a large and enthusiastic meeting was held, presided over by Mr. A. C. Hutchinson (district goods manager), who was supported by the Mayor (Councillor H. G. Whibley), Mr. Almeric Pagp.t, Mr. Apthorpe Webb (hon. surgeon), Mr. T. O. Mein (secretary G.E.R. Centre), and other influential gentlemen. About 2 I certificates, 8 re-exam. vouchers and 9 labels were presented by the chairman to members of the recent class.

In the course of an interesting address, Mr. Mein spoke of the growth of am bulance work on the Great Eastern Railway, and especially eulogised the work of the local honorary secretaries and other workers. He knew the sacrifices that this work often entailed; there was often a great difficulty in keeping together a body of men engaged in work, such as first aid, which often demanded so much personal sacrifice. Their Secretary in the Cambridge Division was most earnest in the discharge of his duties and most prompt in dealing with all matters of correspondence. The letters G.E.R. might be interpreted to mean ., Great Efficiency Required," and in the matter of ambulance work" Great Efficiency Rewarded." He hoped they would bear in mind that those who were doing their best for the service and the pu blic generally, were doing a noble and humanitarian work. He looked forward to the time when every man and woman would be trained in ambulance work, when it should have become an essential part of the education of every boy and girl to know the principles of first aid. If that were so many a life might be saved. With regard to rail way ambulance work he thought they might fairly claim that the G.E.R. was the premier railway. They were either the first or second railway to take it up. The work went on amongst the men themselves, but it was n0t until some years after its inception that the Directors recognised its value', and the G.E.R. am bulance corps was formed, the Company agreeing to pay all outgoings in connection with lecturers' and examiners' fees and material. As they all knew, their Directors and officials took the warme;;t interest in the work, and encouraged it in every possible way. In connection with the Inter-Railway Competition there had been twelve con · tests and the Great Eastern Railway had won the Shield five times, they had been in the final on four other occasions, and had been awarded badges of merit on three other occasions. No other railway company in the country could boast of such a record, and therefore he thought he was justified in saying that they were the premier rail way in regard to ambulance work.

Other speakers were the Mayor, Dr. Aplhorpe Webb and Mr. Almeric Paget, all of whom eulogised the spirit of

G. N. ambulance display and of certIficates, medalilOns and labels took place on Sept. 26th, at Northern Cricket Ground, Derby. A lengthy but mterestmg programme was gone through by members of the ambulance class. In the course of a brief address Mr. A. J. Grin.ling, President of the Class, who had attended to dIstribute the awards, said that he had had recently brought to his notice several cases where the value of efficient first aid had been proved. He hoped he should se.e a great many more lake up the work in the coming wmter. It was a grand thmg to be able to render aid in the case of an accident, and perhaps be instrumental in saving the life of a fellow-creature. The certificates, &c., were then presented, and the company afterwards adjourned to tea, kindly provided by Mr. Grinling, in the Great Northern Institute. Before the party broke up a hearty vote of was accorded to Mr. Grinling for attending and makll1g the presentation and for his generous hospit:tlity.

G.W.R.-In connection with the Swansea Class a smoking concert was held at the Hotel Cameron, on Saturday, September 26th, Sir Griffith Thomas presiding. In proposing" The Town and Trade," the Chairman referring to the growth of Ambulance work in the district, said, he should at all times be pleased to associate himself with any effort which might be made to still further promote its progress. He wisheJ every success to the Great Western Railway Classes. The toast was responded to by Mr. Hopkins Davies (Docks Supt.).

During the evening a presentation of certificates, medallions and labels was made to pupils from the recent classes, and occasion was taken to present a fountain pen to Dr. Dan Evans, the class lecturer, and an umbrella to Mr. George Benyon, class secretary. A capital musical programme was much appreciated.

N.E.R.-Mr. T. H. Curry, buoking clerk at Darlington Station, who is also secretary of the Darlington District of the N.E.R. Centre, has just been appointed an Honorary Serving Brother of the Order of St. John. Mr. Curry's connection with ambulance work has been a long onedating since 189 r, when he took his first certificate. On the formation of the N.E.R. Centre, Mr. Curry did yeoman service, and was appointed secretary of the Hartlepool district, a post he occupied until his removal to Darlington, when he was asked to act as secretary for that This was in 1903, and ever since he has worked hard to maintain a high standard of ambulance efficiency in the district. There are now three members of this Railway Centre who are Hon. Serving Brothers of the Order.

SOUTH-EASTERN AND CHATHAM RAILWAy.-On this railway the District Secretaries are elected annually by the ambulance men throughout the system, and it speaks well for the satisfactory manner in which these officials have carried out their arduous duties during the past season, that in every instance where the retiring secretary has sought reelection he has been re-elected.

Owing to domestic reasons, the secretary for No. 2 District (Mr. E. J. Taylor, inspector, Cannon-street) did not seek re-election. The meeting for the appointment of a successor to Mr. Taylor was made the occasion of a very

pleasing incident, in the shape of a presentation to him of a handsome Louis XV. cabinet, on behalf of the various am bulance men in his district.

Mr. E. C. Cox (Chairman of the Centre) in the presentation spoke of. the whole-heal:ted ma.nner 111 which Mr. Taylor had carned out the duties of his office, and said how grateful all were to him for his endeavours in the cause of first aid-in fact, a very large share of the success which had attended the classes in No.2 District, since the formation of the Centre in 1905, was due solely to Mr. Taylor's personal efforts. Although they would no longer have the benefit of Mr. Taylor's counsel on the Committee, he was glad to know that he would still be actively engaged as Secretary of the New Cross Class. He trusted that he would be spared for many years to carryon the good work, and that both his wife and himself would look with pleasure, on the tangible ' expression of esteem, which had been given by those who had received benefit at his hands.

In thanking the donors, Mr. Taylor (who was visibly affected) said that it was with regret that he bund himself unable to again take up the office of committeeman, but he had by no means done with the ambulance work . It would always be his aim to further the cause to the best of his ability. In conclusion he asked, for his successor, Mr. T. A. Oliver, signalman, Spa· road, the same support that had been afforded him dunng the time he had been on the Committee.

To inaugurate the re-forming of the classes for this season the members of NO.4 District held a very successful smoking concert at New Brompton, on Wednesday, 7 th inst., and a similar function was held at Ramsgate on the 9th inst., brought together a large number of members belonging to NO.7 District. In each instance there is every promise of a successful season and a record number of new first yearmen is confidently looked for.

We regret to hear of an accident that occurred to one of the S. E. & c. R.'s most enthusiastic ambulance workers at Red Hill, in the person of John Holman, a shunter. Holman was riding on the footplate of an engine, and in jumping off unfortunately fell between the platform and the engine. The latter wen t over his legs cutting off both feet. Fortunately several ambulance men were at hand, and porters Ingram and Chapman, with Inspector Ottoway and porter Penfold, were at once able to apply tourniquets and arrange for the transport of the patient to the hospital.

We are inrormed that as a result of the prompt and efficient first aid rendered, Holman arrived at the he spital with very little loss of blood and he is now making rapid progress towards convalesence.

We feel sure that those who attended their colleague on this occasion are happy in the knowledge that they were able, as a result of instruction received by them, to render such good service to a comrade, and that they can realise that their labour in this grand work has been time and trouble well spent.

One of our subscribers writes :-May I congratulate you on your last number of FIRST Am. Paper, print, subject-matter and all, are above any other publication at double the price that I know of. All good fortune attend the ship FIRST Am -it should forge ahead fast.

The family of the .late Sir E. M. Shaw, former ch.lef of Lond?n Fire. Brigade, have presented to the brigade hiS portralt and hIS helmet and axe. The gift was announced to a general muster at headquarters on October 15th, by Captain Hamilton, the present chief.

No. 2 District.

OXFORD.-The annnal meeting of this corps was held under the presidency of Hon. Surgeon Fn:eborn, at the Corn Exchange, on Tuesday, September 29 th The reports and balance-sheet were presented and adopted.

Chief Supt. Foort, in the course of an interesting address, referred to the dearth of officers in the Summ:::!rtown and Wolvercote Divisions, as a matter which required attention at an early date. It was recommended that a litter was required at Summertnwn, and he agreed with that recommendation, one was required there quite as much if not more than in the central part of the city. The speaker next referred to the selection of Hon. Surgeon Freeborn as an Hon. Serving Brother of the Order of St. John, an bonour which was deservedly due to their hon. surgeon for the splendid services he had rendered to the corps. Their thanks were due to the Supt. Secretary for the £ 10 he had collected for their funds, and their treasurer was also entitled to their gratitude for his able work. He congratulated the top man in the G.W.R. Division on having won the gold medal for the year. Continuing, he said the chief constable h'ld told him that but for the am bulance brigade they would require a considerably larger number of men on duty at St. Giles' Fair. As it was the police were enabled to attend to their own duties and leave ambulance work to their members Various other matters in connection with the regulations, &c., were discussed before the meeting ended.

No. 3 District.

KETTERING.- This corps was inspected by the District Chief Surgeon (Dr. Audland) in the Paddock, Lower-street, September 25 th

The inspecting officer, who was accompanied by Chief Supt. Harvey Reeves as orderly officer, made a careful inspection of the clothing and equipment, and the men afterwards went through stretcher drill, bandage practice, &c.

Addressing the parade at the conclusion, the inspecting officer said he was exceedingly pleased with all that he had witnessed that afternoon. He was glad to see that their numbers had increased. The work of the nursing division under Lady Supt. Mrs. Lane was specially to be commended. The sisters had done some beautiful bandaging, which made one of his proftssion envious. The police had also done some very good work. He was especially pleased with the improvised work, and the fractured thigh was beautifully done-quite good enough to win a prize in competition. The work was being watched very carefully at headquarters. They felt, and the Chief Commissioner felt, that in the event of war they would be called out even before the Territorials to man the hospitals. They must remember that, and for that reason they must keep themselves in a state of great efficiency. He had seen a map in the Chief Commissioner's office, and the

October, 19 08 -FIRST

flags on it showed that there was a much larger amount of ambulance work in the Midlands than in other parts of England, and the same applied to Lancashire and South Wales.

No. 4 District.

DUBLIN. - On August 19th, this Division was inspected by the Deputy Commissioner Colonel Trimbli", C.M.G., V.D. There was a muster of eighty men on parade. At the close of the inspection the Inspecting Officer complimented all present on the continued efficiency of the Division and suggested that the men should enter into competition with Divisions on the other side of the channel.

On the 5th inst. in conjunction with the St. James' Gate Athletic and Cycling Union Sports five teams from this Division entered into a friendly Competition which was witnessed by a very large assem blage, Colonel

AI D.- 61

regret that their numbers did not increase. Newcastle was behind in ambulance organisation, and he was surpnsed that the city authorities did not give more help and encouragement to the Division.

NO.7 District.

RHONDDA VALLEV,- The general meeting of the "General Sir Charles Warren Shield" Competition was held at Porth Hotel, Porth. The following were re-elected as of!icers: Hon. Preside.nt, Sir Charles Warren, C.M.G. ; PreSident, W. Jenkl?S, J.P:, Managi ng Director of Ocean Col henes, Ltd.; Vlce-Presldent, W. D. Wight (agent), Corys Bros. & Co., Ltd .; Chairman of Executive Chief Superintendent, T. E. Richards, M.E., (Merthyr) Collieries, Ltd., Mardy; Treasurer, Major R. C. Dyke; Secretary, Chi ef Superintendent Tom Davies Ocean Collieries, Ton Pentre. '

The annual review of the Rhondda Fawr Corps took

Burtchael, R.A.M.C., being the judge. The competitors wore the Brigade uniform and looked very smart. The competition resulted as follows :-1st prize, No 2 team, 162 marks; 2nd prize, No. I team, I42 j 3rd prize, NO·3, I3 0 marks; NO.4 team, 128 marks; NO.5 team, 97 marks.

Names of winning team - Messrs. F. Morton, H. Thomas, S. J amtson, M. M'Cormack, and John O'Brien

No.6 District.

NEwcAsTLE-oN-TvNE.-District Supt. of Stores, C. B. Palmer, inspected this Division on October 1St, at the Headquarters, Rutherford-street. After inspecting the books and records, all of which had been most accurately kept, the Inspecting Officer witnessed a series of drills and first aid work, at the conclusion of which the men were drawn up and addressed. After expressing his pleasure at again having had the duty to inspect them, the Inspecting Officer congratulated the Division on the very mark ed improvement in the drill and efficiency. He expressed

place at Tre :'lerb e rt on Saturday, 26th, in summer weather. The inspecting officer was Surgeon-Colonel E. Cureton, M.D., Deputy Commissioner, who was accompanied by Chief Supt. A. South ham as staff officer. Seven divisions were represented-with about 130 men-on parade, under the command of Chief Supt. Tom Davies, Ton Pentre.

In the address to the men the insp ect ing officer remarked that he had watched the development of the Corps with great interest, and he was gratified to witness such a strong muster. From the report books he found that good work had been accomplished both on the surface and underground at the Rhondda Collieries, and he hoped that the public would show their appreciation of the movement by sub scribing to a fund in order that the men might have a fortnight's continuous training each ) ear. He wished to suggest that the officers might, with advantage, go to a hospital for a week annually, to train and provide for the emergency of war. He highly complimented th eir Chief Superintendent on the work which had been done.

L ' ENTENTE CORDIALE.- VISIT OF FRENCH FIRE lEN TO BRADFORD.

Top row (left to right) -e. O. Roper, Supt. Scott, e.O. Bradley, C.O. Middlebrook. Bottom row (left to right)-Lieul. Lebellf, Capt. Robineau, lIon. Surg. V. Bateson, Capt. Nicolle, Commandant Guesnet, Supt. Lecroix, Capt. L eon, lIon. Capt. Dyson.

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During the afternoon the well-known Corps Prize Band rendered selections.

The review of the Corps was watched by a crowd of spectators who evinced a keen interest in the proceedings. After the inspection the Corps marched through Treherbet to Treorchy a distance of three miles, and were accorded a hearty reception on the line of route, they wer e subsequently dismissed at the Institute

Colonial.

MASTERTON (NEW ZEALAND).-On the 20th August, His Excellency, the Governor, visited this place at the invitation of the local divisions.

In the afternoon he was driven o various places of interest about the town, being accompanied by Capt. Gathorne Hardy, A.D.C., His Worship the M a yor, the Superintendent Donald, 1st Officer Parton, and Secretary Lewis, of the Masterto? Division. Subsequently the regal party was entertaIned to afternoon tea at the ArcadIa Tea Rooms.

In the evening an am bulance demonstration took place in the Town Hall, when there was a large attendance of the general public. Apologies for absence were received from Mr. Hogg, M.P., the Deputy Commiss:oner (Major Barclay), and District Chief Supt. Seed.

The Mayor in the course of a welcome to his Excelle ncy, sa id that they were fortunate in receiving a visit from the Governor. He was the President of the St. John Ambulance Association in New Zealand, and had come to Masterton to assist the local division. They were fortunate also in having a division in their midst which was doing much good work. The members had in view tne obtaining of the services of a trained nurse for the district. He hoped that the people would realise the importance of the movement and would assist them to carry out this very desirable object.

His Excellency, on rising to reply, was warmly applauded. In the course of his remarks he said it appeared to him to be a good sign when a town invited the representative of the King to come amongst its people, because it demonstrated that that town was enterprising and was proud of what it was doing. As regards the work of the St. John Ambulance Association there was no question as to its great value, and he did not think there was any part of the British Empire, taking into consideration the population, where it was doing better or larger work than in New Zealand. He congratulated the local divisons on the object which they had in view and wished them success.

Lord Plunket then presented ambulance certiflcates to a large numb e. r of those present, after which a demonstration in ambulance work was given by the members of the ambulance and nursing divisions under the direction of their respective superintendents, Mr. Donald and Miss Gillespie.

The performance was greatly assisted by an orchestra, which played popular selections during the intervals between the various items.

At a meeting of the Committee of Management of the Royal National Life Boat Institution held on October 8th. Clayton, V.P., Deputy Chairman, was unanImously appOInted Chairman, in succession of the late Sir Edward Birkbeck, Bart., and the Earl of Hardwick was appointed Deputy Chairman.

We are in no way responsible jar the opinions express ed, or th e statem ents made, by COrl'espondent s.-EDITORS.

THE S.J.A.B AND THE TERRITORIAL FORCES.

SIR,-I quite agree with "Aesthesiometer, " B.O. 137 appears to ha ve been drawn up in a spirit of opposition to the W. O Memo. 6 5, in whi ch the St. John Ambulance Association certificate holders were looked upon as possible rE' c ruits for the R A.M.C. (Territorials ), and men who retired from the latter were to be stron g ly re c ommended to join the S J.A.B.

In obje c ting to the enlistment of its members into the Territorial Forces, why did not the framers of B.O. 137 make an exception in the case of the R.A.M.C? seeing that the work of the two organisations runs on almost identi cal lines ; and seeing that the excellent training the men get in the R.A.M.C., with an unlimited supply of stores, equiprrJem, etc., must necessarily tend to make them even more effi cient mem bel s of the brigade than they now are.

Allowing the medical officers to remain members of both bodies (v ide B.O. 139 ) seems to sug g est weakness on the pa rt of the brigade authorities. They can threaten the unfortunate N.C.O.'s and men, but are afraid to tackle the medical officers.

However, the following alternatives are open to "Lieut., R A.M.C. " and" Hon. Surgeon S.J.A.B.," and others similarl y placed.

( I ) Take no noti ce of the Order, and let St. John's Gate take the first step.

(2) Call a meetin g of the division and ex plain the whole position to the member s, and place before them the relative merits of both and act on the result of the vote.

(3) Secede from the brigade, as many have done, and are doing, or contemplating, and form a local ambulance corps. Uniforms, etc. (except the badges and buttons of the brigade ), can be used, so that no expense will be entailed by this step. This is the course I propose to adopt, and the whole of our officers and men are with me in so doing. - I am, S ir, your obedient s ervant,

ANOTHER R.A.M.C. (T .) AND S.J.A.I3. O FF ICER

SIR,-With reference to the controversy re St. John Ambulance I3rigadp. and the Territorial Forces, I quite agree with one of your correspondents that a "most serious situation has been created."

I venture to say the member!: of the S.J.A.B. have proved themselves good men and true, and no men have done more purely voluntary service for their country and the public.

To say the least, B.O. 137 is a great disappointment, especially to long servi ce men. By th is new order many of us are deprived of the only compensation we expe c t, viz., the long service medal.

Which ever of the two we resign ( I am referring to the men who are members of both ), we shall be losers in more senses than one. In all fairness I think that now we are counted supernumerary to the Regular Forces, that service should be continuous for the long service medal, otherwise we shall lose credit for all our sacrifice and toil, and the many years which we have given in order to make ourselves what we are, a force to be relied upon in a national emergency. - I am, Sir, AN OLD VOL. AND A MEYl BER OF THE S.J.A.B.

THE AMBULANCE CERTIFICATE.

DEAR SIR,-I was glad to see your outspoken criticism last month on this subject. I think it is high time that some f:.teps were taken to prohibit irresponsible individuals from issuing certificates in first aid; the subjer::t is too serious to per-

October, 1908 -FIRST

mit of its being played with by amateur administrators. It is well known that the two recognised Associations to which you refer as the pioneers of the work, have for many years had the conduct of classes in all parts of the United Kingdom, in the course of which they have rallied to their support the leadin g members of the medical profession, whose advice and cooperation has enabled theI!l to rules and. regulat!on s which effectually ensure the ll1f:.tructlOn bell1g carned out III a thoroughly systematic manner.

This is not the case I belie ve in the mushroom or ga nisations to which you refer as local asso ciations, the condu c t of these is verv often left in the hands of a small band o f laymen, the medicai men confining themselves purely to the ta sk of lecturing.

I heard recently of a first aid class for women, consisted of ninety members, lectured to by a young pra c tltlOner. A class of so unwieldy dimensions would never have been allowed by a responsible association, but I suppose the idea is to get the fees to swell the local funds. What practical work could the members do ? I dare sa y some members ne ver put on a bandage at the lectures, and probabl y within a week or two of the examination had forgotten all about the little the y h ad managed to pick up.

I sincerely hope some pra c tical effect will be given to the suggestions which you throw out. Ambulance work is a serious subject, and as su ch should be carried out under effi cient control.

More power to you -Yours trul y, M EDA LLI ON N o. 6 5.

DEAR SIR,-I was somewhat surprised to see your scathing remarks last month in your article concernin g the formation of any ambulance org anls a tlOn outSIde those of the St. John and St.

I quite agree WIth your remarks III De cember, 1906, when t he Bexhill split occurred, that we, a s ambulance worker s, s hould try to the best of our endeavours to be loyal to the original movement; but it takes a deal of tryin g at times Surely the time has arr ived when ambulance men can no lon g er stand the red tapeism whi ch now e xist s, and a s a re s ult we see the formation of a n independent body whi c h (kindl y note ) has for its objects, amon gs t others, the ad van cement of t he ambulance movement, not its retard a tion.

I belie ve I am correct when I say there are a good man y a mbulance workers, not alread y conne cted with the new mo vement, who gladly welcome it and wish it every su ccess.

One has only to refer to the colum n s of your valuable paper to see these feelings bursting out almost ever y month. For one example, the severe comments on the memorandum issued with regard to the Territorial s cheme.

A point which I myself feel ver y stron g:ly on , the continual re-issuing of new rules and regl1latlons whIch we, as members, have no voi ce to raise again s t. - Yours truly , AN O FF IC ER OF THE S J.A B.

SIR,- - ln your editorial of this mor:th I note that rou rejoice over the mutual agreement whIch has been arrived at between the Executive Committee of the St. John Ambul a nce Association and that of the St. Andrew's Ambulance Asso c iation.

So far, good; but rou proceed.to hold these up as the only AssociatIons the necessar y tions to grant certificates and medallions worthy of re cog n ltlOn, whilst you admit being aware of the fact th a t there are other sections of individuals who a r e g iving instru c tion on the same lines and, you believe, as thorough as th a t laid b y the syllabus of the St. John and the St. Andrew ASSO CIatIons, and, furthermore, that no pupil is awarded the certificate unless he or she has fully satisfied the ex a mmer as to hIS or her efficiency.

The medi cal gentlemen, you c ontinue, who undertake the role of lecturers or examiners to their cl a sses are, we feel sure, above reproach, etc. Yet !sthis\o-cal1ed certificate outside the area wlthll1 whI ch It IS Issued Your answer being: None, absolutely none ; over wh ich you seem o gloat, as you refer to these" non-registered " bodies as a system which you consider requires condemn a tIOn, and ask, IS It not ti me that so grotesque a farce were abandoned, et c

AID.-

Now I, and no doubt, many others, would like to know to what bodies you refer as being non-recognised, and therefore commg under the pale of your denunciation. Then when we get on fair grounds, there might be an opportunity for these bodies to defend themselves.

On the g eneral p rinciple it seems to me, as a "first aider " holding the St John cert ifi cate we should welcome effi ci ent men and women from wh a tsoever sour ce they come, even if the y do not hold a ny certifi cate at all.

If a person meet s with an a cc ident, it is not a certificate bearin g tbe hall-mark of any particular Asso c iation that is required, but efficient belp, and all who can effi ci ently help should be re cognised, not condemned.-Yours truly, THO S N EAL E 29, Lambton-road, Homsey-hill, N

[As our correspondent truly points out, we were will ing to admit, for the sake of argument, that the instruction being run on similar line s to that of the Asssoc iations whose cau se we espouse was therefore as thorough; but we referred to the chara cter of the instru ction imparted, not to the methods. We believe it is common kn o wled g e that the classes in man y instan ces are only held at rare intervals, and as a result they are so unwieldy that it is impossible for the le cturer to devote careful attention to, or direct supervision to individual students We agree with our correspon d ent that we should welcome effi c ient first aid from wh a tever source it comes, but it is just because we believe that these non-re cogn ised bodies open the door to possi b le non-e ffi::i en cy that we protest against the ir continued exis ten ce -E D "F A. "]

S OUTH A FRIC A.-Dr. O. J. Curri e, whose name will doubtless be familiar to many of those of our Ambulance Brigade readers who served during the Boer War, has after residing for some years in Maritzburg left for Cape Town. Prior to his departure the D o ctor was entertained at the St. George's Hall. On behalf of the N.G. R. Mutual Benefit S ociety , of which Dr. Currie was medical officer, Mr. D. Renni e pr esent e d him with a handsome set of studs and sl e eve links, at the same time presenting Mrs. Currie with a card-case.

A presentation was also made on behalf of subscribers from all sections of the community and consisted of an X Ray apparatus for the D o ctor, and a bracelet for Mrs. Currie. In handing ov e r the gifts Mr. Tatham said. that in the departure of Dr. Currie h e felt they were losmg a very dear friend. He (the speaker) had seen the Doctor in all phases of life. In municipal matters he had known him as health officer at a time wh e n sm a llpox raged in the town and when he thought only of the sufferers. He had seen 'him dischar g e the duties of a soldier in the field with a nobility which it was almost impossible to Ladysmith , if there was one who out. 10 that heroic defe nce it was Dr. Cume. HIS name dId not find its way into the n e wspapers-he wore no decorations - but he lived in n-'any a gr a teful heart. As the commandant of the "C " B a ttery, Natal Field Artillery, Dr. Currie had brought it up to a high stat e of efficiency. For his valuable services to Grey 's Hospital they would always be grateful.

The R e v. C. de Bornville, Dr. Cross (MedIcal Supt. Grey's Hospital), a repr esentative of the Ambulance Corps, and Dr. Campbell Watt also paId to the worth of Dr. Currie and the loss they were sustammg by his departure..

In responding, Dr. CUrrIe referred to he had at all times received from the Nursmg Staff and from the medical m e n of the city. He had always felt proud of Natal and he should always retain recollections of the Colony and the many acts of kIndness he had receiv e d from its people.

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National Fire Brigades Union.

EA STERN DI STRI CT DEATH LE\ ' lE S FUND.-As a result of the call made on behalf of the survivors of the late H. A. MarkilJe, 3rd Officer of the Wisbech Fire Brigade, who died as a result of an overdose of laudanum, the s um of £25 r6s. has be e n collected and paid over.

New rul p. s for the gov e rnment of this fund have been approved and adopt e d, and will com e into force on January rst ne xt.

RHYL.- The annual demonstration and competition in connection with this district took place in the Belle Vu e Athletic Grounds on S eptember 4th. Fourt e en out of twenty-four affili a ted bri g ades attend ed.

Mr. W. Conwy B ell, district chairman, was in command, and the onerous duties of h o n. secretary were carried out in a most efficient manner by Lieut. J. O. Hughes.

Mustering at the Town Hall the various brigades marched, headed by the Rhyl Amateur Brass Band, to the Athletic Grounds, where upon arrival they we re addressed by Mr. Conwy Bell.

The results of the various contests we re as follows;-

For the best drilled and smartest turned-out teamrst, Bodrhyddan 2nd, Carnarvon.

One-man manual drill, nine entries.-rst, Abergele ; 2nd, Bodrhyddan.

Two-men manual drill, e ight entries .- Ist, Llanduduo ; 2nd, Oswestry.

Hydrant drill for the Byrn e Chall e nge Shield, el e ve n entries. - Ist, Llandudno; 2nd, Bodrhyddan.

AI D.- Octo bel', 1908.

:Manual wet drill for the Dolgelly Challenge Shield, seven entries.-Ist, Dolgelly 2nd, Bodrhyddan.

Steamer wet drill for the Mostyn Challenge Shield, ten entries.-rst, Rhyl; 2nd, Dolgelly.

Manual wet drill (dressing) for the Abergele Shield , seven entries.-Ist, Bodrhyddan; 2nd, Oswestry.

Only one team faced the judges for the ambulance competition, viz., Bodrhyddan. The prize was the handChallen g e Cup presented by the Law Union and Crown Insurance Company, with silver medals and certificates. After a real1y splendid display of first aid work on the lines of Dr. Ettles' Ylanual for the Fire Service, the team was adjudicated justly entitled to the honour of holding the cup and medals. The percentage of marks gained was 95.

At the close of the competitions the prizes were presented to the successful competitors by Mr. G. A. Taverner, chairman of the Rhyl Urb:m District Council. In the course of his address at the conclusion, Mr. Taverner warmly congratulated the various brigades on th e high character of the work they had witnessed that afternoon. They esp e cial1y thanked those teams which had com.:; from a dista':1ce in such unfavourable weather and had given them such good sport.

Much sympathy will be felt for Lieut. and Mrs. Hughes who were two of the uufortunate sufferers in the omnibus accident which occurred at Stanley Bridge, Chelsea, on S e ptember 13th. Mrs. Hughes suffered from cuts and bruises and shock, whilst Lieut. Hughes suffered from a fractured nasal bone, bruises and shock. We are glad t o learn that both the popular officer and his wife are progressing favourably. Hearty good wishes for a speedy and complete recovery.

EST AnL IS HED 1841

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Aids to Memory for" First Aid" Students.

By L. M. FRANK CHRISTIAN, M.B., C.M., Edin. 1101l Lift lJcm{'c r o/, alld Rxallfiner for , tIle St. j(lllll A IIfIJ7flatlcc /lssoc

The Independent Journal for the

and Fire Services.

As is lhe wi sh and desire of the Proprietors to make this J ourn a as in stru ctiv e and enterta ining as possible, correspondents in a ll pa rls of the country are asked to give it all the help they can.

Sup e rintendent s of Corps and Officers of Div isions of the St. John Amb ula nce Bri gade, Officers of the Royal Army Medical Corps (T erritorials ), th e Volunteer Ambulance School of In struction, and Chief Offic e rs of Fire Brigades will, it is hoped, do their best to make it known among st the members of their respective organisations, and will also send for pu b li cati on their official news and notices. Suggest tio ns a re invited for Prize Competitions and other matters which will ad -ance the interest of the Jouma!.

We p a rticularly desire o ask our correspondents to be brief and to th e p oint in any communi cati ons they may send us for publication.

Correspond ent s se nding in photos are urgently requested to state on lhe ba ck of th e sa me the name of the individual or the Corps or B rigade and g ive al so the name and addre ss of the sender.

We beg lo a dvi se o ur readers th a t we do not pay for photographs or co py sent, unless pre vio usly agreed upon in writing.

" First Aid" is published on the 20th of the month.

EDITORIAL.

IN our last month's issue we dealt very The S.J.A. B. fully-and we hope it will be conceded and the Territorial Army.

in a spirit of fairness, with the action of the St. John Ambulance Brigade Authorities, in discountenancing the enlistment of its members in the new Territorial Force. In that article we disclaimed any intention or desire to dictate; the subject was approached in no spirit of hostility to the Brigade, but in the hope that the authorities would reconsider their decision, and abandon what we felt was an altogether untenable position to take up.

In another part of this month's issue we publish the copy of a letter addressed by the Chief Secretary of the St. John Ambulance Association, to the Honorary Secretaries of its local CEntres, and others interested 10 the work, requesting them to afford every assistance towards recruiting the ranks of the newly formed Medical units, by urging pupils who might pass through their classes to join the Territorial Force. This letter is dated in July last, but we frankly admit that ,until it was brought to our notice we had no knowledge

of any such action on the part of the Executive of the Association; we would, however, point out that in our article last month we did not refer in any way to the Association, our remarks applied solely to the action of those responsible for the conduct of the Brigade) and we cannot admit that the patriotic efforts initiated and pressed home so forcibly by the Executive of the Association minimises the counter action of the Brigade authorities.

We quite realise that any member of the Brigade who has been enrolled in eitller a Brigade Bearer Company, the Home Hospital Reserve, or the Royal Naval Sick Berth Reserve, should not be allowed to tnlist in the Territorial Medical Corps; indeed, we do not doubt that the applicant, prior to attestation, would have to disclose the fact, that, he had already placed his services at the disposal of the Naval or Military authorities and would be rejected.

The men for whom we pleaded were those members of the Brigade, who living in districts in which there are no Brigade Bearer Companies, or having no inclination to join the Naval or Military Reserves, were yet desirious of undertaking some military service on behalf of their country, for these men we pleaded, that, provided it could be shown that it wouln not interfere with the loyal observance of their obligatory duties in the St. John Am bulance Brigade they should be permitted to enlist in the forces of the Crown. Surely, it were better to concede a point like this, than that the services of valuable first aid men should be lost, or be not available for public ambulance duty on the occasion of any large demonstration, or other civil function.

As a further argument in favour of our plea, we would point out that there are, we believe, but ten Brigade Bearer Companies in existence in connection with the St. John Ambulance Brigade, and these are located at certain centres only, and are not therefore available for many members of the Brigade who have a leaning towards the military side of first aid work. Men so circumstanced naturally turn to the newly formed Territorial units, and as many of these units have small sections in outlying towns and villages adjacent to their headquarters, it naturally follows therefore that a young fellow with a leaning towards the military, 111 addition to his

enthusiasm for ambulance work, aspires to join a corps which will give him special facilities for gratifying his inclination in both directions, and fit him to take his place in the defence of his country, what possible objection can there be to his taking this course, provided, as we say, he complies with the regulations of the Brigade, as regards efficient service in that organization?

We are glad to give publicity to the appeal so forcibly put by the Noble Chairman and the Executive of the St. John Ambulance Association, and we trust that the response will be such as to ensure the success of the new Force as regards its medical units, but we would once more, and with all deference, appeal to the Brigade Authorities to permit those of its members who are not enrolled in either of the organisations alluded to by the Chief Secretary, to enlist in the new Force; for we cannot but feel, judging by the letters which have reached us, that should this permission be refused it cannot but militate adversely against the present strong position held by the Brigade in this country. That the members of the Brigade as a whole are loyal, and at all times ready to comply with any order, which, has as its object the increase in the standard of efficiency, is well known, but it is possible to strain that spirit of loyalty to breaking point: It only requires a little tact to save the situation, and we do hope that the Order to which this country owes so much, on account of the splendid services it has rendered , in organising and maintaining for so many years past this modern Hospitaller work, will see that the tact upon this occasion shall not be lacking.

The following is a copy of the circular letter referred to in our Editorial:-

ST. JOHN AMBULANCE ASSOCIATION, ST. JOlIN'S GATE, CLERKENWELL, LONDON, E.c., ISt fitly, I9oB.

A I D.·- N ovem ber, 1908.

enrolling as mem?er of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, whIch constItutes, facto, membership of the St. John ASSOClatlOn. But at the same time they recogmse there may be reasons why an individual who is unable to join the Brigade, would nevertheless' like to enlist in the Territorial Force, if the fact of the valuable services would thereby be to his country and to humamty was brought to h1s notIce. Moreover, it is hoped that many men, who have joined a medical unit of the Territorial Force and have been thus able to render good servicp to their country, will on completion of their Territorial service be disposed to join the St. John Am bulance Brigade, for which they would have become qualified by the training they had undergone in the Territorial Force.i especially if it were pointed out to them that they would thus be further qualifying to acquire in course the distinctions awarded by His Majesty the Kl.ng, on the recommendation of His Royal Highness the Pnnce of yYales, for service in the culminating after a num.ber of serVice 111 the receipt of the Ord.er s Deco.ratlOn, which IS one of the recognised sanctlOned by .the Sovereign and can be worn 10 umform and on other sUltable occasions.

With a view to the furtherance of these ideas the Director and Chairman has furnished the Territorial Force Officer charged with recruiting in your locality, with your name and address as our local representative and it is ear?estly h.oped you will. afford that Officer every assistance 10 callIng the attentlOn of the above described pupil.s at your Branch to the advantages of service 10 a medIcal unit of the Territorial Force and of subsequent service in the St. John Ambulance Briiade.

* It is thought well to point out that so much patriotic service is now rendered by Brigade units, over and above their ordinary civilian work and public duty in the prOVision of personnel for the Royal N Sick Berth Reserve, the Brigade Bearer Compames, the Military Home Hospitals Reserve, and of volunteers for service with an Expeditionary Force, that it behoves everyone who is interested in humane work which is carried on by the Am bulance Department of the Order of St. John, and especially those who hold office at its Centres and Branches, to spare no effort to aid the Medical Companies of the Territorial Force and to assist in . augm.enting the strength of the St. John Am bulance Bngade 10 the manner pointed out.

DEAR SIR,

I am by the Director and Chairman to .draw y?ur attentlOn to. the importance, from a patriotic pomt of View? of, the medIcal units belonging to the newly tormed Terntonal Force being brought up to their full strength. As the work of the St John Amb I A ". u ance ssoclatlOn continues to flourish l'n your d' t 't 't h ". lS nc, 1 lS oped that suffiCient mterest ,,:t11 be taken in the spread of our good work by. those certIficated pupils, who have no of becom1Og mem bers of the local, or nearest DlVlslOn of the. St. J Ambulance Brigade, taking fa the opportunity of joining a Terntonal medIcal unit.

Marqu.ess of Breadalbane and the Central Executive Commlt.tee naturally think that the first duty of an pup.!l should be, beyond the fact of holding of Its Ambulance Department certificates to become still further connected with the Order of St. John by

The Marquess of Breadalbane and the Central therefore venture to rely upon your cordial co-operatlOn In the support of the above scheme, and you may be assured that should considerable success in obtaining recruits for the two Forces mentioned without the present position of the St. John Bngade, attend your efforts your services will not be overlooked.

In order to save you trouble it is suggested that you should apply to the Territorial Force Medical Officer with whom you will be put in communication, with su'itable extracts from your class attendance sheet after its contents have .been recorded in the register of your Centre. The 1OformatlOn which it is necessary for the Territorial

* If the,e men join the Territorial Force they would and abet an unpa rIotic sltam, counting the same men twice over In and Army returns. Moreover, on mobiliz ation the above are reqUIred for service with the Regular Army, i.e. the R.M.A.C., or on war3hlps. What then becomes of the blanks in the TerritOrIal Force? Or are they to throw over the Sick Berth Reserve and A. ;\,I. c. (in defiance of signed contracts) and stick to the local Terntonals? They cannot be in two place at once.

November. 1908. -FIRST

Force Officer to have is the names and addresses of those certificated pupils who have passed examination at your Centre and who have no chance of joining the Brigade, I am, Dear Sir, Yours faithfully, (Signed) HERBERT C. PERROTT, Chief Secretary.

Competition for the "Colman" Cup at Redhill.

ON the 29th ult. Redhill was all excitement, for in this town the people take great interest in ambulance work, and it had been notified that Sir Jeremiah Colman, Bart., had offered to present a Challenge Cup for competition amongst teams, the members of which resided in the Redhill district.. .As a result of th.e worthy Baronet's generosity pubhc mterest had been stImulated, and at the hour which the competition was announced to commence there was a large attendance of the public in the King's Hall, Colman Institute, Redhill, to witness it.

The arrangements were carried out by a Com mittee consisting of the Mayor of Reigate (Alderman T. Malcomson, J.P.). Rev. Canon Vine, Dr. Collingwood Fenwick, and Messrs. J. Swann, W. Dolding, J. Shillingford, H. Lee, G. Stone and 1,. Nutley, with Mr. W. H. Fowler Chairman; the duties of Secretary were undertaken by' Mr. C. Garbnel, and Col. Lees Hall, Deputy-Commissioner No.1 District, S.J.A.B., acted as judge.

The stretcher test consisted of treating a person found lying in the roadway unconscious. The injured man had a fracture of the lower jaw,. blood was issuing from. both ears, and there was also a gapmg wound on the outSide of the right elbow joint caused by falling on the sharp edge of the curb. The member of each team was also examined individually as to the treatment of injuries, and had also to submit to a viva voce examination.

In the evening the awards were announced as follows :-

Redhill, S.E. & c.R. Station, 256 points; Reigate, S.E. & c.R. Station, 242 Nutfield, S.E. & c.R. Station 232; Redhill Police, 186; Farm School, No.2 Team, Farm School, No.1 Team, 157.

Lady Colman, who was accompanied by Sir J eremiah Colman, kindly undertook the ceremony of presenting the CUP.i the meeting being under the presidency of Archdeacon Daniell.

Mr. W. H. Fowler, in giving a history of the St. John Ambulance movement in the borough, said that some six months ago it was thought that a competition for a Cup would enlist the sympathy of the public, and it was decided to lay the matter before Sir Jeremiah Colman, and that gentleman with his usual generosity, gave one to be competed for annually. An appeal was also made for subscriptions to add other prizes, and Mr. H. C. Brodie, M.P. gave medals, and Col. Rawson and the Mayor of Reigate, with many others also subscribed, and so the Committee were enabled to give a second and third prize.

The Chairman said it was very consoling to him to think that the railway men were so zealous in their work, and it was comforting also to be able to realise that should one ever be removed by the police, these latter had learnt how to do it in the gentlest way possible. Fitting reference was made to the great kindness and the public spirit displayed by Sir Jeremiah and Lady Colman in the great

AID.-

works which they undertook. The Ambulance Cup wOlJld he felt sure, be an incentive to others to take up the and qualify in the important knowledge of how to render first aid.

. Lady Colman than graciously presented the Cup and pnzes to the successful teams.

Responding ?n behalf of Lady Colman to a vote of thanks, SIr JeremIah Colman said that it had given him .much pleasure to be able to offer the Cup for competItlOn. He was able to realise that the cause was an excellent one, and it was a sourC E. of much gratification to know that the competition that day had been carried through with so much success, and that so many teams had

He hoped that next year a large increase 10 the numher of teams competing would show itself. He felt, in .offering this Cup for competition he was doing somethmg to help those, wh? were endeavouring to help themselves, and It was hiS Wish to always assist any good cause to the best of his ability.

The results, g,athered from the judges marks, goes to show that the raIlway men were far in advance of the other competing teams. We hope, however the competition will stim ulate the losers to further

---._.---

J\IEMORANDUl\f.

IT has been brought to the notice of the Executive that many members of the medical profession, especially in the provinces, are under the impression that no acknowled ament, beyond an occasional resolution of thanks expressetld in general terms, is made by His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales and the Chapter-General of the Order of the Hospital of the St. John of Jerusalem in England of the invaluable services gratuitously rendered by medical men since the institution of the St. John Am bulance Association. These services have earned for the Association its reputation, and have enabled it to carryon its work for the benefit of humanity. It has therefore been thought desirable to publish this memorandum for general information and circulation :-

1. Members of the medical profession , male or female, whose names are on the register published under the direction of the General Council of Medical Education and Registration of the United Kingdom are elected " honorary life members" of the St. John Ambulance Association by the Central Executive Committee at headquarters, for acting as honorary lecturers for not less than four cours es of instruction in First Aid to the Injured , Home 1\ ursing, Home Hygine or Sanitation. This distinction is generally published after their names in their biographical notices in the medical directories and similar works.

2. "Honorary life members" who have continued to instruct gratuitously for several years, that is for not less than five or six, have their names submitted through the proper channel for the award of the "Vellum Vote of Thanks" bestowed by His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, Grand Prior of the Order; and the ChapterGeneral, this document bearing the signature of His Royal Highness.

3. Those who continue to work as honorary lecturers and by assisting in administration and organisation at centres and branches for a further number of years are

The Grand Priory of the Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem in England.

recommended by committees of their centre or branch for selection as Honorary Serving Brothers or for enrolment as Honorary Associates of the Order. This recom mendation is submitted to the Chapter-General of the Order through the official channel as pointed out in the regulations and if approved and sanctioned by His Majesty the King. the Sovereign Head and Patron of the Order, carries with it the award of a decoration which has to be worn at Court, in uniform, and on the various occasions, official and otherwise, when it is customary in Great Britain to wear recognised decorations.

4. Further voluntary service to the Order of St. John or its departments is recognised by promotion in the Order to the grade of Squire or Knight of Grace, or even to that of Knight of Justice, subject to the other qualifications ordained by Statute.

5. The names of recipients of honours mentioned in paragraphs 3 and 4 are published on the Roll of the Order, which includes almost the whole of the Members of the Royal Family in England and nearly a thousand Members and HorJorary Associates, a large proportion of the Members and Associates being members of the medical profession.

Poisoning.

By HEATON C. HOWARD, M.R.C.S., L.R.c.P., LOND.

(Co71tinued from page 55). CONVULSIONS.

THERE is only one drug that produces convulsions lasting. any length of and that is strychnine, In a few. mmutes takmg the poison the patient has a feelmg of suffocatIOn followed by a convulsive attack over the whole body lasting for about a minute the body becoming perfectly stiff and backwards. ' Very soon muscles relax an? there IS a complete cessation, but it IS not of long duratIOn, as the slightest movement brings on another attack. If the dose is a fatal one, the attacks are repeated and the patient dies in about half-an-hour or an hour; on the other hand, if not fatal, the fits become less and less. eventually cease. This drug is a common mgredlent m "vermin powder," etc., and is generally taken by accident.

.In by prussic acid after a little difficult respIratIOn, a VIOlent convulsive movement sets in and the patient dark in the face from inability to breathe. Afcer thIS stage has passed a period of calm comes on followed by death, the whole process only taking few mmutes.

DELIRIUM.

There is only on.e that produces this symptom, Belladonna, It .IS as well for you to bear in m.md-t?e condltIOD: characteristic-the pupils are dIlated, there IS mtense thirst, the skin is covered wIth a rash, delirium is restless and mirthful causmg the patient to be very violent. Bella?onna IS often contained in lotions which are occasIOnal.ly swallowed by mistake, and the berries of the Deadly from which it is obtained, are at times taken by chIldren.

TREATMENT AND REMEDIES.

In considering the treatment of cases of poisoning by

AID.-

November, 19c8.

first aiders, I would ask you to bear in mind the following rules ;-

Ist.-Clear the poison out of the body by causing vomiting (if advisable), and (or)

2nd.-Counteract the effects of the poison by giving antidotes or similar substances.

I n dealing with these cases it is necessary to remem ber that it is your duty to obtain medical assistance as soon as possible, therefore send a message to the nearest doctor with information as to [he nature of the case, so that he may bring a stomach pump and any drugs that he may think necessary.

Having examined the patient and made up your mind as to what the poison is, you then decide as to your treatment, and this will mean, is an emetic to be given or not? and if not, why?

You will observe that there is one set of poisons the action of which differs from all others, where an emetic must not be given, and these are the strong acids and caustic alkalies, thp. reason of this being to avoid the powerful burning liquid passing over the tissues twice. Practically in all other poisons the first thing to do is to administer an emetic.

•

The remedies that you as first aiders are to give are found in every house and can be procured immediately, but it may happen that such articles as lime water, Epsom Salts, or sulphate of zinc, have to be obtained from the chemist. Always remember that as a rule the best remedy is that which is to hand, it being better to give something directly, even if it not quite the right thing than to wait and merely look on.

ACIDS.

In poisoning by the strong acids, nitric, hydrychloris and sulphuric, your course of treatment is identical in each, viz., not to give an emetic, but to neutralise the effects of the drug which is burning its way through the tissues. For thi" purpose an alkali is to be given, and the best is calcined magnesia mixed with water, the only objection being that you will probably have to send to a chemist for it. Failing that you can give lime water in large quantities, and if not in the house, you can make it very quickly by scraping some plaster off the wall, reducing it into a powder, placing it into a large jug and mixing it well with water and making the patient drink it. The next best thing is soap dissolved in warm water also to be given in large quantities. Tbe reason that these three are the best remedies is that the alkali contained in them is not a carbonate and therefore does not effervesce with the acid already in the stomach. The other alkalies you can give are chalk, whiting, washing soda, and bicarbonate of soda, but as these are all alkaline carbonates, they must be given in small quantities at a time, in a large amount of water, otherwise the stomach will become so distended with carbonic acid gas that there will be great danger of rupture. After a sufficient quantity of the alkali has been given and the patient seems likely to recover (which is very doubtful if he has taken an ounce or two), oil, white of egg, milk and gruel should be administered; or, they can be given between the doses of the alkali.

CARBOLIC ACID.

This deserves special mention on account of the somewhat different treatment, and also on account of the frequency with which it is taken either by accident or by design. The antidote to this drug is in any soluble sulphate, and the one most easily obtained is sulphate of magnesia or Epsom Salts, a couple of tablespoonfuls should be given immediately in water, but it may not be

November, 19 08 . -FIRST

handy, therefore you want something else to fly to and that is found in olive oil given freely, it allays the pain and renders the acid much less dangerous. An emetic of sulphate of zinc should also be given, and if the stomach is emptied, white of egg and more oil can be continued.

OXALIC ACID.

In poisoning by this drug the best remedies are chalk, whiting or lime water, on account of their forming insoluble compounds with the acid. Bicarbonate of soda or potash must not be given as these oxalates are just as poisonous as the acid itself. Death occurs very soon if a good dose has been taken. In appearance it is very like Epsom Salts, and is sometimes taken for it in mistake.

PRUSSIC ACID.

This kills very quickly and therp. is not usually sufficient time to do anything. If possible apply strong ammonia smelling salts to the nose, and give an emetic. Artificial respiration can also be employed. If there are signs of recovery give plenty of brandy.

CAUSTIC ALKALIES.

Poisoning by these are uncommon. No emetic is required. An acid of some kind must be given, such as vinegar in plenty of warm water, or lemon juice, followed by oil, milk, or white of egg, &c.

OPIUM, LAUDANUM, CHLORAL, CHLOROFORM (SW ALLOWED ).

The well known course of treatment in these cases is to make the patient vomit by an emetic or otherwise, give black coffee at frequent intervals, and keep him awake, by walking him up and down a corridor or ot'Jer means. As opium comes next after carbolic acid in the number of deaths that it causes, we may with advantage consider these remerlies a httle more closely. The first thing to be done is to evacuate the stoOlach which is usually done by giving an emetic, a most simple proceeding, but there are difficulties. If the patient is stupidly drunk or wishes to commit suicide, you will most probably fail in getting him to swallow anything. A doctor can by injecting a certain drug beneath the skin make him sick in a minute or two, but in his absence you must do the best you can by trying to open his mouth and push your finger down his throat, for even the efforts he makes to resist you will be beneficial. A piece of wood between the teeth may prevent your being bitten. If he is insensible, it will be useless to attempt it as he may l:Jave lost the power of swallowing. After the stomach is emptied, you must then give strong coffee, for the tallnin it contains forms an insoluble compound with the opium, and it also acts as a stimulant. If a moderately large dose has been taken you will experience great difficulty in keeping him awake. Two, three or more assistants are necessary to walk him about, flick him with a wet towel, and use such other strong measures as may be deemed advisable. If the patient's condition becomes worse and the breathing slow and laboured and you are still acting on your own responsibility, you will be justified in resorting to artificial respiration, which will have to be kept up for bours, but probably by that time the case will be in the bands of a medical man. Individuals differ as to their susceptibility to the influence of opium; one or two tablespoonfuls as a rule will cause serious eHects, but some people can take much more without ill consequences.

ALCOHOL.

Alcohol with which may be coupled ether. The treatment of this is well-known, viz., an emetic and keep the patient warm.

AtD.-

ARSENIC.

The vomiting must be encouraged by giving an emetic of sulphate of zinc (30 grains to an ounce of water) or some salt and water, then afterwards oil and Ii me water and keep the patient warm.

MERCURY.

This is usually taken in the form of corrosivp. sublimate (perchloride of mercury). It has a strong local action and immediate steps are necessary. Albumen (white of egg) forms an insoluble compound with. the drug, therefore beat up in a little water the whites of two or more eggs, and give quickly, failing this flour made into a thin paste with water is an excellent substitute. Afterwards a simple emetic of mustard and water.

PHOSPHORUS.

Acute poisoning by this drug is very seldom seen. The best way of treating it is supposed to be to give an emetic, followed by a tablespoonful of Epsom Salts, then oil of turpentine in small doses. Phosphorus is contained in paste, and rat poison, and used for killing vermm.

BELLADONNA.

Cases of poisoning from this are rare, and may occur by taking some kind of liniment of which this drug forms part. A mustard emetic followed by a dose of castor oil, should be given, and animal charcoal is also recommended.

STRYCHN1NE.

In a case of this kind the stomach must be emptied as soon as possible by means of an emetic of sulphate of zinc or mustard. A first aider can do very little, but if in the intervals of spasms he sees signs of impending suffocation, he would be justified in resorting to artificial respiration. A good deal can be done by the administration of drugs to lessen the effects of the poison, but I do not think that you would be considered capable (at lea5t by the public) of handling dang erous drugs-they must be left to the medical man.

OTHER CASES.

In all other cases of poisoning, such as those caused by any metallic salt, or the administration of wrong medicine, lotions of liniments, or drug of any kind the nature of which you may not be certain, the best thing you can do is to encourage vomiting by means of an emetic, and then give some demulcent drink such as some of those I have mentioned.

EMETIC.

There are many methods of making a person sick, and it is necessary that you should be acquainted with some of them. Tickling the throat with a feather, putting your own or his finger down his throat, that is, if he is willing, should be remembered as handy methods. There are also many substances in common use which will haye the desired effect, such as warm water, two tablespoonfuls of salt in half-a-pint of warm water, one tablespoonful of mustard in half-a-pint of warm water, 30 grains of sulphate of zinc in half-a-tumbler of warm water. Do not give more than one dose of sulphate of zinc-you can give more of the others.

SHOCK.

OLe of the results of many of these poisons is the state of shock or collapse to which the patient is reduced on recovery. This must be attended to by keeping him warm and if able to swallow, and if it be deemed advisable by giving stimulants in the shape of tea, coffee, wine or brandy with water.

-FIRST AI D.- November, 1908.

POISONS USUALLY TAKEN.

Judging from the returns of the Registrar-General of the deaths caused by poisons, I find that opium, carbolic acid and oxalic acid, in the order named, are those commonly used. Of course this does not include recoveries of which it is not possible to obtain a record. People intending to commit suicide seem to prefer carbolic

SYi\lPTOTlIS

IN SENS IBILITY with dilated pupils with dilated pupils "

and smell in breath with contracted pupils with contracted pupils during sleep and dilated when awake. coming on immediately, followed by convulsions, difficulty in breathing, eyes fixed and glistening, limbs flaccid, cold skin, smell of bitter almonds in the breath.

VOMITING with intense burning pain in throat, gullet and chest -vomited matter consists of food and difficulty in speaking and swallowing, lips and mouth covered with a slough like a coat of white paint. Like a coat of yellow paint

As aboye, with smell of drug in mouth and vomited matter.

with abdominal pain and excessive languor

with profuse purging, and other symptoms same as poisoning by acid.

with violent purging, and other symptoms as III acid poisoning.

with pain in abdomen, vomited matter, luminous in the dark.

and purging, cramps in calves of legs, abdomen tender-symptoms appear a bout half-hour after taking drug.

CONVULSlONs.-Attacks last about a minute, body strongly arched wards, difficulty in breathing.

After a varying interval attack is renewed -as case becomes worse attacks become more severe.

acid, because, I suppose, it is easily acquired. Poisoning by a strong mineral acid usually produces a fatal result, and prussic acid is almost always fatal. I give you in a condensed and tabular form the symptoms and treatment of the common poisons, and I venture to think that you will find it useful if you cut it out and paste it in your text book or note book.

NAME OF TREA TJ',1ENT.

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November, 19 08 -FIRST

Our Portrait Gallery.

MAJOR GEORGE LANE MULLINS, M. D., AUSTRALIAN ARMY MEDICAL CORPS, COl\IMISSONER ST. JOHN AMI3ULANCE BRIGADE, IN AUSTRALIA.

MAJOR MULLINS, the popular Commissioner of the St. John Am bulance Brigade in the Australian portion of our Empue, was born in Sydney, New South Wales, in the year 1862. He was educated at St. Mary's College, Lyndhurst (Sydney), and at the Sydney Grammar School.

AID.-

Order of St. John, and was promoted K.night of Grace in the year 1905.

Recognising the inestimable value of the instruction in swimming and life-saving given under the auspices of the Royal Life-Saving Society, Major Mullins took an active interest in the formation of the New South Wales Centre and now holds the position of Principal Medical Officer that organisation in the Colony

He is a major in the Australian Army Medical Corps, and staff officer for medical services, New South Wales, and also holds the appointment of chief instructor to the A.A.M.C. Schools of Instruction for Officers, added to which he has upon several occasions acted as Principal Medical Office r.

} Emetic and Warmth.

Ether.

Alcohol. {

Electing to enter the medical profession, he subsequently proceeded tC' London and entered the tLondon

Chloroform (swallowed )

Opium.

Chloral.

Prussic Acid or Cyanide of Potassium.

1 J A strong Mineral ACid suchl as Hydrochloric Acid or Sulphuric Acid or J!

Nitric Acid. I Carbolic Acid.

Oxalic ACid or Salts of Lemon or Sorrel.

Corrosive Sublimate (Perchloride of Mercury. )

Caustic Alkalies ( Soda, Potash, Ammonia.)

Phosphorus. Arsenic. Strychn ine. All other Poisons nature unknown.

half-pint

Emetic of mustard or zinc, then strong coffee keep patient awake by walking up and in coo l passage and flicking with wet towel -later, artifical respiration.

Apply strong smelling salts (a mmoni a) to the nose-Emetic of sulphate of zinc or mustard -Stimulants.

No emetic-large draughts of warm water calcined magnesia or lime water, plaster off wall pounded up and mixed with water or chalk, whiting, washing soda mixed with and in small quantities, then white of egg, od, milk, gruel.

Two tablespoonfuls of sulphate of magnesia in water, then emetic and plenty of olive oil followed by white of egg.

Give chalk, lime, or whiting mixed with wateravoid soda, potash, and ammonia salts.

White of egg mixed with water, or flour and water, then emetic of mustard and water.

No emetic-plenty of warm water, then vinegar -and water, lemon juice and water, followed by white of e gg, milk, gruel, and oil.

Emetic.-Then half ounce of Epsom Salts 111 water, followed by small doses of oil of turpentine.

Encourage vomiting by sulphate of zinc emet ic, salt al:d water, then give oil and eggs, or 011 and lIme-water.

An emetic of sulphate of zi nc or mustard as soon as possible, get medical aid with utmost If danger of suffocation, use artificial respiration.

Give enletic, and then demulcent drinks as milk, gruel, white of eggs, &c.

w:arm water or

tablespoonfuls

Hospital as a student, subsequently entering TrinilY Co ll ege Dublin. He took the degree of B.A. in 1886, M.B. in 1887, and M.A. and M.D. in J888. He is also an M. D. of Sydney.

The Major has for many years past been keenly in terested in am bulance work, and he is even now a lecturer and examiner, as well as a Mem ber of the Executive Committee of the New South Wales Centre of the St. John Ambulance Association. In recognition of the voluntary services rendered he is also an Honorary Life Member of the Association.

In 1902 Major Mullins was appointed Commissioner for the S1. Jobn Ambulance Brigade in N ew South Wales, and in 1904 was appointed Commissioner for the whole of Australia; and it is undoubtedl y due to his untiring zeal and unflagging energy that the Brigade movement is now making such steady but substantial progress in the Commonwealth. In reco gnition of his services in this direction th e Major was in 1903, on the recommendation of the Chapter General, appo inted an Honorary Serving Brother in the

Among other appointments held by Major Mullins, who like most members of his profession, willingly sacrifices his leisure in the cause of humanity, we may m e ntion that of Lecturer on Medical Electricity to the Australian Massage Association, New South Wales and Hon. Consulting Physician, St. Vincent's Hospital, Sydney. Of the latter Institution he was formf!rly Hon. Assistant Physician. Incidentally we may here mention that he was one of the found ers, in 1896, of the Civil Ambulance and Transport Brigade (New South Wales). Our readers will perhaps remem ber that a few years since we gave an interesting account of this organisation with details of the valuable services which it bad rendered in Sydney and the neighbouring suburbs. This corps , it may be stated, is now amalgamated with the St. John Ambulance Brigade.

On the occasion of the inauguration of the Australian Commonwealth the ambulance arrangements were in charge of Major Mullins, and were carried out in a most satisfactory manner by those acting under his command Did space permit much more might be written about the subject of our sketch. Undoubtedly he is the right man for the responsible positions he so ably fills. Full of energy and not afraid of hard work, he sets an example of enthusiasm to those working with him, and to those under his control. A Colonial himself, he thoroughly understands the Colonial temperament, and such men as he are invaluable in the prosecution of brigade work in the British Dominions beyond the seas. We trust that a full measure of success may attend the efforts he is making. He deserves it, for of him it may truthfully be said he never spared himself in his efforts to attair: it. It. is this lov e of hard work which has made hlln so ul1lversally popular with all ranks in the Colony; t?ey recognise in him a chief, who, not only can rule and direct, but who can also, if required, turn to and work shoulder shoulder with them in carrying out the objects of the BrIgade.

The Tsar has presented Major Richardson with a gold watch, with the Imperial Arms in diam?nds, in ciation of the work of his ambulance dogs 111 Manchuna.

BRIERFIELD. - Mr. T. Veevers, of the Mount, has promised to provide a silver r?se bowl f?r c0tr:petiti?n at the same time that the Tunstdl Memonal Shield Will. be competed for. The competition is to be for nurs111g sisters, and will be open to all England.

YSTRAD RHONDDA.-A lecture was given by that wellknown lectur e r Mr. Alexander Watson, of London,. at Bodringallt Chapel, Ystrad Rhondda, on Thursday even111g, November 1St, in aId of the funds of Ystrad Rhondda Division of the St. John Ambul::tnce BrIgade.

An Emetic i.s made .by one of in

?f

two

of salt 111 half-pmt of warm water, or thirty grallls of sulphate of Zll1C 111 half-tumblerful of water.

-FIRST Brevities.

THE Report of the Director-General of the Army Medical Department on the health and sanitary conditions of the Army for 1907, recently issued, is on the whole sat isfactory. Not only were the admissions, death, invaliding, and constantly sick rates lower than those for 1906, but they show a still further diminution compared with the preceding ten years. While the decline in sickness has not been confined to anyone locality, it has been most marked in Egypt and India, where the admission and death rates have been the lowest on record. Malta fever is now practically non-existent among the troops; important inq uiries into the nature of enteric and malarial fevers are being carried on; and a strong Sub-Committee of the Army Medical Advisory Board, including civilian experts, has been formed at home to co-ordinate and direct individual and collective efforts, and thus secure the best results from any new medical discoveries. In regard to recruits it is stated that the average ratio of rejections per 1,000 declined from 321 for 1897-1906 to 284 in 1907. While this diminution is attributable to alterations in the standards, the Report states that there has been also a decline in the number of those diSCharged as unfit after election, due to "a wiser system of physical training which excludes the more injurious exercises of the old system." The majority of the recruits were growing lads who would not be fit for the work of a mature soldier for two years, and ninety-five per cent. were out of work at the time of enlistment. It is worthy of special note that, next to chest measurement, the most frequent cause for rejection in 1907 was loss and decay of many teeth. There is matter for senous thought as well as satisfaction in the Report.

I AM sorry to hear, says the Tailer, that there is trouble in the London Fire Brigade. It seems that certain members have been refused promotion on the ground that they are too fat. Of course, I do not pretend to have expert knowledge in the matter, but it seems to me, as a member of the public depending for nightly sleep on the efficiency of the Fire Brigade, that a fat fireman is just as good as a thin one. Fat men, everybody knows, are often lighter on their feet than thin men. A fat fireman would be up a ladder and down again whilst his thin mate was thinking of the job. Again, if it were ever your lot, as I hope it never may be, to be thrown from a top-fioor window, would you rather land on a thin fireman or a fat one?

Here,. I thi'1k, the fat malcontents have a very strong argument in favour of their promotion. As they point out, they cannot help getting fat. Unless there happens to be a fire or false alarm, they have to sit indoors and play nap. Policemen whose duty lies in picture galleries) museums and cathedrals complain of the same thing. You must have noticed how fat the poor fellows get, many of them being compelled to climb over turnstiles on going to work

Al b.- November, 1908. in the morning. In cases of this kind the authorities should look all round.

Many other papers have had humorous paragraphs anent the" fat ones," for whom, however, we have a certain amount of sympathy. It's hard lines to have one's promotion harred by an excess of adipose tissue. What wou IJ our old friend Falstaff have said to such a decision. Many of our readers will doubtless remember what Shakespear's corpulent knight has to say regarding fat men.

* * *

WE have on previous occasions referred to the gratifying progress which the medical units of the new Territorial Force are making, and we heartily congratul ate the Director General on the success which has attended his appeal to the patriotism of his professional brethren. Those whose privilege it has been to meet Sir Alfred Keogh must have been struck with his absolute sincelit y of purpose in this matter. Before approaching the members of the medical profession he had undoubtedly given [he subject much carefui thought and consideration, anu this had enabled him to grapple with the intricaci es and problems which must necessarily arise in any effort towards reform.

That there yet remains much to be done before thi s country has an absolute perfect system in connection with its Army Medical Department we are quite willing to admit, but given time and money and we unhesit ating ly assert that the present Director - General will hand to his successor the important office which he now so ably fills, a military medical service second to none in th e the world. Sir Alfred Keogh is the right man in the right place, and it is fortunate for the medical branch of the service that it is so.

WHILE admitting out that much of the success which has attended the development of the new units can undoubtedly be traced to the time and attention given to the service by its popular chief, we have not forgotten that the Director-General himself owes a deep debt of gratitude to the members of the medical profession who have so ably seconded his efforts; indeed, but for their patriotic and unselfish assistance the results would have been far less satisfactory. Owing to the wholehearted manner in which the medical profession has approached the question, the roll of officers, is, we believe, quite complete, and nearly every unit is at full strength. This is most gratifying, and we congratulate the commanding officers, many of them busy general practitioners with but little leisure, on the success which has attended the result of their patriotic example. The Empire already owes a very deep debt of gratitude to the members of the profession for valuable voluntary services in the past; the way in which they have rallied to the call of their country in this instance is one more proof that their own interes ts always receive secondary consideration where the wellbei,pg of the community is concerned.

November, 1908. -F1RST

SPEAKIN G at the annual meeting of the Bromley Division of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, Bishop Taylor-Sm ith, Chaplain GEneral of H.M. Forces said:" He was glad to have the opportunity of expressing his gratitude for what they did for his comrades in the South African War. He thanked them on behalf of the British Army. Speaking of his own experiences as a first aider, the Bishop said he knew from personal experience the ad vantages of belonging to such an institution as th eirs. He could only say if their work was appreciated by the public of Bromley, as it deserved to be appreciated, they would not be lacking in funds. He did hope that the Bromley folk who read the account of that meeting would realise, or try to r ealise, what good work they had been do ing, and were doing, and show their approval by rend ering adequate financial support. He hoped they would go on and prosp er. Might their numbers and their serv ices be appreciated, and might they continue to set to the generations who would come after them, examples of real patrotism and good citizanship. * * *

THE St. Andre'w's Association, which, owing to the kindness of members, says the Scotsman, has had the gift of a motor am bulance wagon for transport work in Glasgow and district, gives the result of its experience during the year and a half of it s use. The wagon has covered 8,824 miles, and has been very us efu l, especially for the long distance removal of invalids. Its value for accidents in Glasgow has not been so marked, though on several occasions it has proved of great service. From the eigh teen months' experience the Council is of opinion that, owing to the greater reliability and cheapness of the horse-drawn wagons, it would not at present be advisable to replace them altogether by motor vehicles, though, doubtless, as the latter improve, it may become necess ary. Sufficient experience has, how ever, been gained to show th a t, apart from the first cost, which is, of course, considerably higher than a horse wagon and it would be necessary for the su bscriptions to be increased before the Council could face the additional expenditure involved. Commenting on the experience gained of the motor wagon, Sir George T. Beatson, who presided at the a nnual meeting of the Association, said that both expense and rapidity of being on the scene made it imperative that they should keep to their present arrangement of horse-drawn vehicles.

At an inqu est on November 9th on Chas. Malcolm, aged 62, stoneman, whose right leg W!01.S by. a fall of stone at West Pit, Sherburn Hill, medical eVidence showed that death was due to heart fallur e consequent on bronchial pneumonia, following on shock and sustained by the accident, and the jury returned a verdict to this effect. The Coroner commented on the absence of any ambulance and sp:)ke of the value of amb ulanc e work. Mr. Murra;, mal1'lger of the pit, said they had considerable difficulty in getting men to attend the classes. It seems hardly credible that the statement of of the pit could be true. If it should thmk It IS a state of things peculiar to the dlstnct.

SOUTH EASTEPN & CHA1BA11.- lY e raw Hctiw:d a copy of the Annual Report uf this centre fur 1908. It has been most carefully compiled, and is full of items of interest, not only to the employes of the company who are taking such a ke en and gratifying interest in ambula nce work, but there is much in it which is of more than passing interest to the travelling public. For instance, in perusing its pages we were particularly struck by th e following :-

"Whenever invalid passengers are required to be moved to and from the trains, &c., care must be taken to see that, as far as practicable, the services of qualified ambulance men are utilised, so that the movement may be effected with the least possible discomfort to the invalid. "

Now this is perhaps but a small matter in itself, but to those who may have to travel with invalids proceeding either to the Continent or to one of the many health resorts served by this company it means a great deal i the knowledge that both at the commencement, and at the termination uf the journey, the invalid will receive assistance from men who are carefully trained, and skilled in the practice of liftin g the sick and injured will rob the journey of half its terrors.

A certain class of individuals are never tired of reiterating that there is friction on this or that railway between the staff and the directorate. Well, we have alwa) s noticed that this never applies to the am bulance man. We think it may be said in all sincerity, that) he is loyal and fully appreciative of the encouragement whlch he receives from the directorate and th e heads of departments. It is for this reason that we are always so gratified to hear about the extension of amb ul ance work on our railways. It is the one great movement which tends to bind all classes and ranks in a universal bond of sympathy.

As showing the progress which am bulance work has made on this railw ay since the inauguration of the centre, we give the following figures extracted from the Report :Year. No. of members who passed. Total. 1st Exam. Voucher. Medal. Label 1906 408 145 86 93 73 2 I907 26 7 295 I34 179 875 I908 274 201 257 302 1034

The increase shown is most gratifying, and shows how thoroughly k ee n are the committee and officers in men to join th e classes. In the report under revIew an appeal is made to stationmasters and heads of It is admitted that many are already holders of first aId certificates, but to those who are not it is pointed out, that, it is a great encouragement to mem bers of the staff to continue to take an in .the work, if they th;t their immediate supenors are 111 full sympathy WIth It. " e are sure that it is so, and we feel sUl:e that the aI?peal so forcibly, yet kindly, put will result 111 a most satIsfactory resp onse .' I

Speaking at the ann.ual meet1l1g on Apnl 8th, i\ r. Mellor, of the Board of DIrectors, expressed, on behalf of

-FIRST

the Board its satisfaction at the unqualified progress which the was making, and in the hope that. it might prove a still stimulus, he stated that SIr Watkin and himself intended to present a Challenge ShIeld to be comp e ted for annually. It is these marks of appreciation which serve to bind so closely together the am bulance men and their employers. It is this spontaneous recognition of good work. appeals to the man, and proves to hIm, that hIS supenors are unmindful of the services which he has so ungrudgmgly rendered.

The Report also contains much interesting information regarding the formation and conduct of classes and the results of the last competitions.

We should call attention to the ambulance van at Longhedge Works, illustrations of in the Report. It is a roomy and commodIOus carnage, and well fitted. Its conception we understand was due to Mr. H. S. Wright (locomotive engineer) and Mr. J. 'Yo (assistant locomotive engineer), and the e nthUSIastIC and devoted ambulance men who work under their directions.

It was formerly the custom to sneer at the S.E. & CR., cheap jokes regarding its punctuality and its carriages were the stock in trade of certain music hall artistes. All that is now changed, for punctuality the S.E. & c.R. can hold its own and it is constantly improving its rolling stock. All this is satisfactory, but we think th e most satisfactory signs of progress are those which we have briefly outline.d in connection with its am bulance department, and thIS result is due in great meffsure to the hard work and interest taken in its progress by the Chairman of the Committee, Mr. C E. Cox, and his popular Centre Secretary, Mr. Ernest A. Richards; the several committee men have all done good and valuable work in their respective districts, but they would, we are sure, unhesitatingly support our assertion, that, to the two gentlemen named is due the siJlendid progress mad e.

The shield presented for competition amongst ambulance teams on this railway by Sir Alfred "\V"atkin, Bart., and Mr. Mellor is now exhibited in a suitable case and placed in a prominent position at Victoria Station, where it has attracted the admiration of passengers and staff alike.

The directors of the company have recently provided at Victoria Station two new rooms for the exclusive use of the ambulance men for lecture and competition purposes, one of these it is proposed to furnish, and make use of as a room where ambulance men may meet for practice and social intercourse. Photographs of ambulance teams, or other suitable railway pictures, for exhibition in this room will be gladly received by the Centre Secretary, Mr. E. A. Richards.

To inaugurate the commenc e ment of the classes ih NO.3 District a concert was held at Paddock Wood on the 22nd ult, and a very pleasant evening was spent by about 200 men and their wives.

The proceedings were made the occasion for the presentation of a purse of gold to Mr. J. Cloake (the energetic district secretary, and late inspector at Paddock Wood) by the passengers using Paddock Wood Station, on his promotion to the post of Travelling Inspector, as a slight acknowledgment of his extreme courtesy, and as an indication of the esteem in which he was held by passengers using that portion of the S.E. & CR. Company's system.

On the 12th inst., a very succ essful smoking concert was h eld at Ashford, and on the 13th inst. a concert was given at Ash by a choir party from Redhill, who volunteered

AID.- November, 19 0 8

their services and travelled specially from Redhill for the purpose.

There was a large attendance, and the co ncert was much appreciated.

G.W.R. - An interesting demonstration in connection with the am bulance employes of this Company took place at Castle Cary, on Sunday, November 1st, in the presence of a large number of spectators. Sunday was chosen for the demostration, this being practically the only day upon which many of the men could attend About 67 men took part in the display, being brought by special train from various parts on the Great Western system

The following was the plan of campaign :- A passenger carriage and some goods wagons had been placed on one of the sidings to represent a collision between a passenger and a goods train. Scattered all around on the ground were splinters of wood, and other suitable debris for first aid use. Placed in and around the passenger coach were anum ber of men with labels attached, showing the nature of their supposed injuries.

At IOAO, after the arrival of the last outlying detachment the roll call was taken, and at a. m. a series of explosions given by detonators announced the commencement of the proceedings? and the assembled men at once hastened to the scene of the supposed catastrophe and commenced the work of rescue. Forming up into little groups they quickly proceeded to extricate the patients, administering the necessary treatment and subsequently removing their patients to the goods shed, which had been converted into a temporary ambulance station.

It was all very realistic, and to some, perhaps, somewhat gruesome, but one could not help feeling as the y watched the men at work, what valuable auxiliaries they would prove in the event of a real disaster. There were twenty-two cases in all to be dealt with; the first case was extricated and brought out from among the debris in eight minutes of the signal "Get to work," the last a "live" case at 11.30; one man, assumed to be dead, being left to the last, his removal being effected about I.32. Subsequtntly the medical men present proceeded to the temporary hospital and inspected the work, freely criticising the methods adopted, and pointing out where other means would have been more effectual.

Mr. T. A. Williams proposed a hearty vote of thanks to the medical men for their presence and valuable assistance.

Dr. Gee, who responded first, apologised on behalf of Dr. Price, who had been called away. That gentleman wished him to say, however, that he would suggest that each group or squad of men should be better orgamsed and act more under their leader; other important details also required attention.

Dr. Page expressed his pleasure at being present. He was always glad to assist in the promotion or advancement of am bulance work. Their efficiency, as demonstrated that day, should be very gratifying to the Great Western Railway and those of its representatives who were present that day. It should also be very gratifying to the large number of the general public who were present, as showing the importance that railway companies attach to the teaching of ambulance work among their officials. It should also serve to assure them that in the event of a railway disaster the injured would receive every attention.

When c o rresponding w ith Advertisers please mention "First Aid."

November 190 8 -FIRST

Vickers, Sons and Maxim ' s Ambulance Corps .

THE firm of Messrs. Vickers, Sons and Maxim is well known as having branches in different parts of the country, all of which contribute to make it a huge warship factory, supplementing and adding to the power of the British and Foreign Admiralties In this article we propose to deal with their Naval Constructior: Works at Barrow-in-Furness, works consisting of large iron, steel, and brass foundries; forges, marine engine works, capacious boiler shops, and its gun mounting shops; and in the ship-building department its fine joineries, frame sheds and launching berths, all of which tend to make it one of the premier works in the country.

Previous to their acquisition by Messrs. Vickers, Sons and Maxim, the works were owned by the Barrow Shipbuilding Company, who employed about 4,000 men, but under the present firm the whole place has been transformed. New buildings added, new machinery added, with mechanical power the chief denominator, and this hive of industry n o lV employs 10,000 workmen. _ EThe re-modelling

A I D.- 75 appliance for the administration of oxygen. These infirmaries, it should be mentioned, are under the control of a medallionist, whose sole duty it is to look after the ambulance appliances throughout the works and to see that everything is ready for an immediate call. The corps officers are a superintendent, two captains and five lieutenants, and in order to encourage them to attend practices the ComlJany has sanctioned a payment, which enables the superintendent to have a standard section as well as a voluntary section; the first named consisting of men who have qualified for that position by their close attention to practice.

The Directors have given va luable prizes during the last two or three years, and these are competed for inside the works ; and ea ch season concludes at Christmastime with an ambulance party and ball. No expense is spared by the Directors, either in th e equipment or in the well bting of their ambul a nce corps, and the liberality which is shown to the members is thoroughly reciprocated by the staff.

In the ordinary walk of life, or ev en in getting the pleasures of life, accidents will occur, and it will be readily understo o d that in such large works as th ese, with its swiftly revolving ma chin ery, its giddy heights to which

of the workshops necessitated the re-arrangement of the methods of dealing with accident cases, and out of this has grown a well-equipped ambulance corps, a photograph of which is here presented. The members are scattered all over the works, and follow various occupation, but each one is readily identified when at work by wearing the ambulance badge. The badge is in the form of the Company's flag, with a red cross running through it and a white enamel background.

With regard to the equipment for minor accidents, there are about fifty stations throughout the works where an ambulance box, containing oils and antiseptic dressings, can always be found. For serious accidents there are other and more important stations, which contain hand stretchers, canvas jackets, and the requisite appliances for raising injured workmen out of the holds of vessels, or for lowering them from the overhead cranes in the lofty. workshops. In addition t.o this, at each gatehouse t.here IS kept a wheeled litter, and at the main entrances leading to the engine works and shipyard, is a properly constructed ambulance infirmary, fitted with hot-water appliances and " Clemetson " stretchers, and all that is requisite to afford relief to the injured, the most recent addition being an

men must go, and the risks that are always pres e nt that accidents do occur, and it is gratifying to lea rn that the services of the members of the corps have me t with warm approval from their fellow workmen. ., .,

At the present time the depreSSIon In trade IS bemg keenly felt in Barrow, as it is elsewhere, and several of the members of the corps have had to seek employment elsewhere' but the instruction in first aid which they have learnt the Vickers ambulance classes will prove of service wherever they may obtain employment.

Mr. W. M. Bradley, the superintendent of the corps, who appears in centre of group, was edycated at the National Schools in Dlverston. On leavmg school he entered the Time offices of the predecessors of Messrs. Vickers Sons and Maxim, and has, therefore, put in 35 years' Almost from the beginn.ing he has ide?tified himself with first aid work, and the Improvemen! 111 the ambulance appliances; may be largely credited to hIS knowledge and sympathy. He is a large-hearted man, and extremely popular with all the members of the who recently, as a proof of their esteem, pr esented hIm an enlarged copy of the of. th.e corps, beautIfully framed and bearing a suitable 111scnptJOn. The presenta-

MEMBER S OF THE AM BULA N CE CORPS O F ME SS R S VICKERS, SON S & MA X IM BARROW- !:i'\- F URNESS

-FIRST

tion was kindly undertaken by 1\1r. Barr, the Company's chief accountant, who said he should like to thank the members of the corps for the opportunity they had afforded him of associating himself with them on that occasion It was an honour which he much Mr. Bradley and himself had been very good friends for many years. It was well known, particularly in the shipyard, that Mr. Bradley's whole heart and soul was in ambulance work. He could assure them that the Directors of Vickers, Sons and Maxim desired to give every encouragement, to the men in their employ to study ambulance work. In presenting the certificates and medallions to the class members, he could not fail to be impressed with the enthusia<;m that many of them must possess, to go forward and prosecute their studies in the way they had done. With great pleasure on their behalf, he asked 11r. Bradley's acceptance of that token of their H'gard and esteem for him in the capacity of superintendent of the works brigade.

In thanking the members for their handsome gift, Mr. Bradley saiJ that his mind had carried him back far more years than he cared to mention, but they all got into a certain groove of life, and his had been cast in these works for the last 25 years or more. In addition to his other duties he was now the employer's official to deal witll accidents. Their organisation was now something very different to what it was in the earlier days, when they had to carry the old heavy stretchers, which required four men, one at each corner, and sometimes they got queer patients. He remembered on one occasion they were taking a man to the hospital, and when they got about half-way down to the old Sailors' Home, the patient refused to be carried any further, but got off and walked hon'e. The man had b ee n stunned, and when he got up he had recovered. He had, of course, seen serious cases, and he had another in his mind now, that of an old man-an old Evangelist-one of those who live for the life beyond, and whose watchword was" Sudden death, sudden glory." He had the honour of holding the old man's hand as h e passed away to the life beyond to merit his watchword. The old man had entered the works as well and strong, apparently, as any of them might be. Continuing, the speaker said that in other cases it had been his sad duty to break the news to those at home; and if there was one thing that fell to the lot of an ambulance man that was more trying than attend ing the injured, it was that of having to convey the sad intelligence to those at home. Of course there was a brighter side to it all, and that night's proceedings were on the bright side. Ambulance work in connection with the works was first seriously started 10 years ago, when Mr. Barr asked the speaker to arrange for ambulance classes. He took the matter up and had looked after it ever since. Six years ago they started their corps, and although they suffered by of the fluctuation in trade, yet each year they enrol from classes. Mr. Barr had spoken of the value whIch the directors had put upon the services of the corps, and the members could speak of the value put upon the equipment which the directors had proVIded. There was a considerable improvement upon what it is, to what it was, when they had to run to the gatehouse to get a drop of Friar's balsam. Speak ing of the earlier days of rendering first aid, he rem e m bered a certain mem ber being called t? a severe accident in the engine works. The bad got 111 the way of a travelling crane, and one uf his legs was almost severed. The ambulance man wanted to finish the work off, but he had not a knife big enough and strong envugh to do it. After that they could always find him .with a knife about two feet long ready for th e next aCCIdent. Ambulance men were not to attempt

AID.- N ovem ber, 1905

surgical work, but to render first aid only. They were always prepared to stop h Ge morrhage by digital pressure or bandage, to relieve broken limbs, and generally to make a patient secure from further injury until placed under the care of a doctor or in the hospita l. The speaker then outlined their programme for the coming year, and in conclusion again thanked the members of the corps for their handsome present.

In addition to his keenness for ambulance work, Mr. Bradley is a keen sportsman, is fond of the rod and gun, and for the last five or six years has been the secretary of the Barrow Angling Association, and under his guidance and skill the Association has considerably improved its sphere of usefuln ess and membership.

He takes a keen interest in the Borough affairs, and when the Walney Bridge question was in evidence and the town was being polled, he had a big committee in its favour, and he was the subject of one or two humorous cartoons. He has been a member of the Sons of Temperance, during the time he has been in Barrow, and is a trustee of the Furness Tontine Club, the most flourishing in the district.

Fire Prevention Conference at Paris.

A CONFERENCE on Fire Prevention was held in Paris last month under the Hon. Presidency of M. Lepin e, Prefect of Police, the object being to establish a Society on the lines of the British Prevention Committee, and to arrange for a ground on which official fire tests could be conducted on similar lines to those in London. There were prEsent the representatives of all the French Public Departments concerned. Invitations had also been issued through the French Foreign Office to the Foreign Offices of the different countries primarily interested, for delegates to attend and asssist. Among those present were ;-Mr. Edwin O. Sachs, F.R.S. E;d., of the British Fire Prevention Committee; Chief Officer Reichel, Berlin Police Fire Brigade; Colonel Meyer, Copenhagen Fire Brigade; Professor von Emberger, Austrian Engineering Society; and others.

Among matters decided upon is the completion of a schedule showing the Fire Prevention measures in force in different countries, with a view of standardising those applicable to all countries.

KOYAL ARMY MEDICAL CORPs.-The Duchess of Albany, accompanied by Prince and Princess Alexander of T eck , on the 25th ult. honoured th e 3rd Home Counties Field Ambulance (Surbiton) by witnessing their drills and inspecting their equipment in Claremont Park, Esher. Her Royal Highn ess went into all the details of stretcher drill and "searching for wounded," the n ew ambulance wagon for four lying down patients, the surgical havresacs, th e "operating tent," field kitchen, etc ., which were ex· plained by the commanding officer, Li e ut. -Co l. J. J. de Zouche Marshall, and Capt. G. A. Edsell, M.D

The strength of this unit (late E. Surrey Bearer Company), is now recruited up to over) 00 of all ranks. The Surrey County Territorial Association has purchased the house and grounds known as " Kent Villa," 24, Claremontroad, s urbiton, for permanent head q uarters, and the architects to th e County Council are engaged on plans for the erection of a large drill hall, wagon shed, e tc., in the gro unds at the back, the existing hous e providing orderly and store-rooms and quarters for staff sergeant-instructor. Sunday route marches (whole day with field training) are now taking place.

November, 1908. -FIRST Reviews.

FIR S T A I D TOT HE IN J U RED.

By James Cantlie, M.A., M.B., F.R.C.S.

TUE official text book of the St. J obn Ambulan ce Association now in its eleventh edition, is, in many respe c ts, a decided improvement on the previous editions.

In the prefa ce, the author states that " an endeavour h as been made to simplify the study of first aid to the injured, by drawing up a number of general rules for the treatment of accid ents and sudden illness, and by the omission of all detail which is not absolutely necessary, to enable the student to acq uire an intelligent knowledge of the subject." T.hough this object has to a la rge been syccessfully .carned out, we consider that the gUlllotIne has In several Instances been ;:Jpplied too ruthlessly, and essential details are omitted which detrac t somewhat from the value of an otherwise useful text book for beginners in first aid.

In dealing with fracture of the spine a stretcher (a nd we take it that a canvas one is meant ) is recommended for removal, this by sagging with the weight of the patient prevents the fra ctured ends from remaining in apposition and accentuates the injury, the orthodox method of transport on a board or shutter is better.

When we turn to the chapter on h ce morrhage we find that the points where pressure .should be in the digital compression of vessels are, In several Il1 stances, not sta ted, but are referred to by numbers on a diagram depicting the pressure points. It would be easier for the student to locate the points on the body by referring to the d ia gram if their positions were accurately defined in the text.

Compression of one facial artery for hce morrhage from wounds of the face is not always suffiCIent to control bleedmg, owing to a very free anastomosis round the mouth, both vessels should be compressed at the same time.

Again, a pad and crossed supple.ment dIgItal compressio n of the temporal an? occIpItal arteries omi tted, this is a most effectIve method of malntammg pressure.

The drawing to illustrate compression of the subclavian artery is fault y, and does not convey an intelligent idea of the method recommended; also the "inner seam of the coat" is not always a safe guide to the position of the brachial artery, and especially so when the arm is

Fig. 5 intended to denote compresslO.n of the femoral artery, it is also very doubtful whethertt would be pOSSible to compress effect ively the this through the clothing as I:ecommended, espeCIally I.e the patient to be wearing cords, though we qUlte endorse the writer s statemen t, that time is all important, yet it would take a moment to hare the groin at the spot where pressu r e IS to be applied.

I n recommending digi tal compression dIrectly over. woun?s, the very necessary precaution as to thumb or finger bemg qUite clean before use, has been omitted.

In the applicatition of tourniquets, the tIme dUring which pressure can safely be kept up is not stated, and i,n ing pressure by flexion it should have been mentIOned that thIS is a very painful method and cannot be long endured.

In the treatment for burns we note that Carron oil has at last been consigned to the limbo of the dust heap, and a safer method adopted; th is is a

In a the chapter on methods of carryIng, the Illustration of the three-handed seat does not co rr espond with the description, the patient's arms should be rour:d the r:ecks .o f the bearers, and this is important as the patIent IS carned hIgh up, and unless well supported is apt to fall forward. .

The description of the fireman's 11ft would have been of more use if the illustrations had not been omi tted.

Stretcher drIll with four, three, two a nd six bearers is given in detail and though we quite admit that it is very necessary for bearers to act in concert, it is equally necessary to see that the patient is also placed in a position suitable to his injury, and that he is carried in a satisfactory manner, the

AI D.- 77

position of the patient on the stretcher, and rules for the carriag e of stretchers have unfortunately been omitted.

I n the chapter dealing with preparation for the reception of accident cases, a "draw sheet" is referred to, but there are no instructions how to put it on; also how to make a « fracture bed" might have been give n with advantage.

Finally, we note with satis fa ction that questions are given at the end of each chapter, with referen ces o the pages where the answers ca n be founcl.

THE

We ha ve received from the publishers, Messrs. Josiah Clarke & Son, printers, De vo nport, a copy of this little namphlet. It is a n abbr evi at ed hi story of the Order of S . ] ohn, from its inception to the present time To those a 1) out to organise classes or centres in co nnection with the S : John Ambulan ce Asso cia tion, and who desire material for an introdu c tory a ddress our advice is obtain this little work and you will by its aid be enabled to place before your farts and figures in so interesting a manner, th at , you will arouse an interest in the subject and enlist the sympathies of your audience.

THE Al\1BULA CE IN CIVIL LIFE. By

the late Reginald Harrison, F.R.C.S.

The author of this little work will be remembered by our readers as one of the prime movers in the efforts of the medical profession to obta in for London a really efficient ambu lan ce service, and one worthy of the capital of the Empire. The book which contains interesting inform a tion, much of which is given in the form of anecdotes, has a somewhat pathetic interest now, in view of the fact that the gifted author is now no longer with us to aid and advance the progress of that movement which certainly owed its inception to his initiation. That his professional brethren will pp.rsevere with the movement we feel assured, and we hope it will not be lon g now before the Service for which 1\lr. Harrison worked so long and loyally becomes an accomplished fac t. The book, which is well printed, is published by John Bale, Sons, and Danielsson, Ltd , Great Tichfield-street, Oxford-street, London, W., at the popular price of one shilling.

AIDS TO MEMORY FOR FIRST AID STUDE TS.

By L. M. Frank Christian, M.B.,

&c.

We have re ceived from the publishers, Messrs Connell and Bailey, StockpC?rt, a copy of the Second Edition of this valuable little treatise. As our readers will doubtless remember, we praised very wa rmly Dr. Christian's when it was first issued. I t has now been thoroughly reVIsed and brourrht up to date. I t may also be obtained from the St. Association, St. John 's Gate, Clerkenwell, E.C. The pnce IS sixpence.

FIRST AID TO THE INJURED.

Published by Allman & Son, Ltd., 67, ew Oxford Street, London, 'N.C.

WE have received from the publishers a copy of the second edition of this work which ha s been revised. I t is, perhaps, a little too far advanced for the ordinary" first aider, " but would doubtless prove of great service to members of the new units of the Territorial Force. vVe were somewhat to find there was no mention of Schafer's m.ethod of artifiCial respiration considering it may now be said to be the one system This omission will, doub tless, be remedied in future editions. By the way, like to see the author'S name appended. A work of thiS descnptlOn.lacks originality when this !s ab.sent. Vole the publis.hers on the way the work IS printed. It IS a man ell011s book for the price, threepence.

WH IT E CROSS OF SAINT JOHN. By Major Robert J Blackham, D.P.H., R.A.M.C

No. I District (Metropolitan Corps.)

No. 37 (G.W.R) DIVIsION. - On November 2nd, Col. James Cantlie, V.D., RA.M.C.T., examined a class at the headquarters of the divisi o n, Carlton Hall, Westbourne-park, in "Military Sanitation." The course of le ctures had been given by Hon. Surgeon J. M Carvell a nd 26 members we re pr e se nt for examination.

At the conclusion Col. C a ntlie bri efly addressed the members, saying that he was proud to examine the pioneer class of th e move ment in NO.1 District, and he felt sure that many other divisions would follow their lead. In conclusion, Col. Cantlie paid a very hi g h compliment to Hon Surgeon J. M. Carvell by referring to the high state of efficiency of the class, which show how great was the interest taken in it by the lecturer. The fact that the whole class of 26 pass e d sp eaks for its e lf.

Mr. A. E. Evans was Hon. Class Secr e tary.

No. 46 (lLFORD) DI VIs ION.-On 6th October the first comp e tition for th e " Robert James Magnus " Ambulan ce Challeng e Cup was held, and eight members of the divisi o n enter for t h e c ontest. Th e judging was very kindly und ertak e n by Hon. Surge on J. M. Carvel, the result bein g as foll o ws :-

Sergt. and Hon. Sec. Matthews; 2, Pte. Aldridge; 3, Pte. Butcher ; 4, Pte Apling ; 5, Pte. Welsh ; 6, Pte. Medcalf; 7, Pte. Croker; 8, Pte. Mitchell.

It is hoped that on a future occasion the whole of the mem bers of the division will compete.

On 15th October the fifth annual concert in aid ofthe funds of the division was held in the Ilford Town Hall an? engaged were of a very high order, opmlOns b e mg expressed by the various patr8ns at the musical treat provid e d.

No. 2 District.

FOLKESToNE. - News has reached this town that the Queen of the Netherlands has sent a medal to Private Care, of this division, for great gallantry in putting off in a rough sea to render aid to a seaman who was snpposed to have been injured in the collision between the Scheldestroom and Forfarshire in December last. The presentation will be made by Sir E. A. Sassoon, M.P., at an early date.

On November 4th the division held a successful concert at the Town Hall. The programme was an excellent o?e, and a large audience, all of whom appreclated the vanous ltems which were contributed by wellknown artistes.

No. 3 District.

HA VERHILL. - The annual inspection of this division was held in the Council school yard, on November 7th. A small muster of members, under Hon. Surgeon and Supt. Goodman Officer R , Potter, were put through the regulatlOn dnll and first aid practice, following

AI D.- November, 1908.

which Hon. Surgeon Goodman requested Col. Elliston to present to First Officer Potter a vellum vote of thanks awarded ,by the Grand Priory Order of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, as a slight recognition and token of his services as Secretary of the classes which had be,=n held during the last eleven years.

Colonel Elliston, in making the award, said he had known Mr. Potter for a great many years in connection with ambulance work, and he had always displayed great energy, zeal and esprit de corps.

Mr. Potter, in responding, said that all he had done had simply been because he had liked the work.

Colonel Elliston, addressing the parade, said they might tell the absent ones that he was quite satisfied with the work he had seen. He could only hope that what h e had seen was a fair sample of what those who were absent could do. He was very g lad to see that two of those present were wearing the badge of the Military Home Hospital Reserve. Speaking of the advantage of a visit t o the annual camp, he said that as there was a likelihood of next year's camp being held in the Eastern Counties, h e hoped that more Haverhill men would be able to attend for a few days.

WELLING BOROUGH. - Owing to the many calls upon his time, Supt. Hilton has r esi g ned the command of this corps. He will still continue as hon. local secretary to th e centre of the St. John Ambulance Association. Mr. Hilton has been for twenty years an officer in the Wellingborough Corps, and has rendered splendid service to the ambulance cause. The Chief Commissioner has sanctioned the appointment of Supt. of Stores Cuth bert Nicholson to command the Wellingborough Corps, with the rank o f Chief Superintendent.

Mr. Nicholson has served as an officer of the brigad e for nearly twenty years, and is a most capable and efficien t officer, and has fully earned his promotion.

NO.4 District.

DUBLIN. - On October 28th Inspector General Preston, R N., inspected the R N. A S, B. Reservists of the St. James's Gate Division. Fifty reservists paraded and went through the various drills.

The inspecting officer complimented the men on their continued efficiency. Ten members of the division volunteered for the S.B.R, bringing the list of reservists up to 65.

ROCHDALE. - On October 24th a re-union of past and present bers, which was formed over 15 years ago, was held 111 the Dnll Hall, Summer-street.

Over 175 person'> sat to an excellent tea, supplIed by the Rochdale Provldent Co-operative Society.

Amongst those present were Lady Royds (Lady of Grace of the of St. JOhn) Alderman J. R Heape, J.P. (Hon. Presldent), Chlef Surgeon and Chief Supt. Irvine Sellers and Mrs. Sellers.

Later in the evening District Chief Supt. Garnett, of Bur.nley, addressed the gathering and gave some valuable advlce to b?th past and present members, urging them not to relax thelr efforts on behalf of ambulance work as he considered it was one of the noblest works that 'anyone could take up.

The tea was followed by a concert which was much appreciated.

The remainder of the evening was spent in dancing,

November, Ig08.

-FIRST

which, after a most enjoyable tim e was brought to a cl ose at 11 p.m.

The musicians were Mr. Arthur Buckley, A. N.C. M. (piano), and Mr. Edgar Howarth (violin).

Sergeants Crosslanrl Helsbv acted as M.C.'s. No. 5 District.

MANSFIELD. - The annual ge neral meeting of this Division was held at the Drill Hall, on N ovem bel' 1St. Supt. R. K. Childs referred to the work done durin g the year, the report of which was considered very satisfactory. The balance-sheet was submitted, showing a balance in hand, and was approved and passed.

The Honorary Secre.tary reported t hat the number of e fficients for Ig08 was 37 as compar e d w ith 27 in Ig07a n increase of 10. Advantage h a d been taken of the invitation given by Hon. Surgeon W. J. Wordsworth to drill on his lawn, with the result that the extra number of drills put in durin g the summer months had increased the

AID.- 79

Durin g th e year CorpI. Co oks ha s bee n prom o ted to th e rank of Serg eant, and P t es Ch an e y, Woodcock and Waldron to that of Corporal.

Mr. T. Taylor (the Mayor) wa s elect ed President of the Classes; Mr. J. Cowling, Tr easur e r; a nd M essrs. W Musson and F. Ward, Audi t ors. vote of th a nks to th e Hon. Se cr e ta ry (Se rg t. F W . C o mn e ) and t o Se rg t. W. Muss o n fo r th eir wo rk on behalf of the Div is ion durin g the year m e t with h earty approval. Thanks were als o ac co rd e d to Dr. W. J. Wordsworth for his kindn e ss in placing his lawn at th e disp osal of the the Division for drill purposes.

No. 6 District.

H UL L -A very co mpre h e nsiv e sy lla bus of drills and le ctur e s, & c., in c onn ectio n with th e vari o us div !sions o f this corps has a gain be e n issued. Th e lis t o f lec tur es to be giv e n during the session is a m ost inte restin g o ne, a nd

Li eul. Hu gh es, F ire ma n Jones. F ir eman W illiams Fir eman EYans F ireman Ellis (resen e).

Winn e rs of the Law Uni o n and Cro wn Insuran ce C o m pa n y' s C hallen ge Cup , prese nted fo r co m pet ition amongst the F ir e B rig::t d e s of the N.W. Dis t ri ct, N a tio n a l F ire Briga des' U n io n

average attendance from 14, in Ig07, to 2g for Ig08. Seventeen mem bers have already join e d the Military Home Hospitals Reserve and the remainder have signified their intention of joining during the ensuing year ; 15 members attended camp, at Blackpool, at a cost of £21, and £22 was expended in new uniforms.

The Division has been inspected by the Deputy Commissioner (Mr. S. C. Wardell), who commended the officers and members on the manner in which drills and first aid had been gone through. An attitional stretcher has been added to the Stores, this was provided by the kindness of the Ex-Mayor (Mr. 1. H. Wallis) and Alderman W. Singleton.

Squads were in attendance at Mansfield, Kirkby and Annesley Flower Show and Sports where several cases recei ved attention.

Sixty-one cases of first aid rendered by members were reported during the year, and 4 transport removals \<v-ere carefully carried out

might we take the opportunity of suggesting to the various m e dical m e n who have k indly undertaken to g iv e th e m, that we should appreciate the courte sy if th e y wo uld favour us by forw a rdin g copi es to us for publica ti o n in FI RST AID, so th a t thos e of our re a ders who will not h a ve th e privil ege of personally attendin g, may have th e pl easur e and a dv a ntage of reading them in our columns.

The m e mb e s of the Pier Divisi o n (Great Centra Railway) of this c o rps, together with th e ir wives and friends, responded to an invitation g iven th e m by th eir officers to muster at the Gr e y-street Rooms, Park-street, on October 30th. A concert, in which the foll o wing artist es took part- Mrs. B?-rtrop, Miss Eth e a nd M essrs. Simpson, McDonald and Howell, o cc upl ed the first p a rt of the evenin g' s programme.

Supt. R Winte r, in a brief speech, spoke of the good work that had been done by the division during th e past year, and said he was pleas ed to b e abl e to sta te th a t they still continued to get new members, and h o ped t hat each

THE B OD RIIRDD AN A MBULAN CE TE AM

member would do his best to further the good cause of ambulance work.

Miss Ethel Lord, in a few well chosen words, then presented certificates to several mem bers.

Refreshments were afterwards provided, and the remainder of the evening was spent in a sociable manner.

1st Officer N. Lord nccupied the chair. Acting 2nd Officer and Hon. Sec. J. Howell had the arrangements in hand and brought them to a successful issue.

The members of this division held their fourth annual concert at the St. Georges' Hall, Storey-street, on October 30th. Councillor G. F. Wokes occupied the chair, supported by Ex-Chief Supt. M. Hopper, Supt. Sec. J. O. Vaughan, Supt. R. Winter and acting 2nd Officer and Hon. Sec. J. Howell.

There was a large audience, all the seats b e ing filled.

In his remarks, Councillor G. F. Wokes stated that most of those present knew more of the ambulance work than he himself did, but all must have noticed t1:le good work that they do for the benefit of others. They had only to look at the recent Hull Fair where the corps had treated over 100 cases, consisting of fractures, fits, cuts, etc He deeply regretted to say that there was one fatal accident whereby a boy had lost his life.

The corps has now over 400 members ready to undertake duty at any moment if called upon.

Supt. R. Winter proposed a hearty vote of thanks to the Chairman. Supt. Sec. J. O. Vaughan seconded the proposition by paying a warm and well-merited tribute to Councillor Wokes, who, he felt sure, must have made a great sacrifice to COUle and help the ambulance cause, seeing that at present election meetings were so prevalent throughout Hull.

Owing to want of time the progra mme had to be curtailed, and the end came only too soon.

The Hull Corps was accompanied to the church on the 25th ult. by the members of the local Field Ambulance, R.A.M.C. (T), under Lieut. Ash. The ambulances of the Boys' Brigade, and the Boys' Life Brigade.

The several contingents, numbering over' 300 men and boys, were precf!ded by the Hull postmens' band, and attracted considerable attention on the route. The service, conducted by the Rev. J. H. Hirst, was of a bright, cheery and helpful nature, to the members present, and to all interested in the work.

Upon the return to headquarters the Mayor, Alderman H. Feldman, J.P., presented to the ex-Chief Supt. M. Hopper, a handsome testimonial consisting of an illuminated address, fish cutlery and a silver cigar case. subscribed by the members upon his retirement after 24 years command of the corps. His worship also presented to Supt. Secretary J. O. Vaughan and Supt, Treasurer J. H. Wingate the vellum vote of thanks <, warded by the Order of St. John.

A miniature of the Deputy Commissioner's Cup, was presented to Supt. T. Lamb and team, they having won the trophy two years in succession. A vote of thanks was accorded to the Mayor on the proposition of the Chief Surgeon A. Scott, seconded by Hon. Surgeon O. L. Appleton.

District Chief Supt. A. H. Johnston was in command of the parade.

During the recent Pleasure Fair, members of this corps undertook public duty, in Stations kindly provided by the Hull Corporation, 310 officers and members took part in the duty, including 40 nursing officers and sisters The following is a summary or cases treated :-Cuts and wounds, 45; sprains, 22; fainting, 14-; epilipsy and

AI D - November, 1908.

other fits, 5 ; fractures and di310cations, 7 ; foreign body in the eye, 7 ditto, throat, blow in abdomen, 2; shock, 2; dog bite, 2 nose bleeding, 2; burns and scalds, 2 total, 111. There was one death resulting from fracture of the base of the skull. The work was much appreciated. The number of cases treated proves how much it is needed. The station h as been maintained during each fair for the past eleven years.

FIRST AI D.

'The Independent Journal for the Ambulance and Fire Services.

To Our Readers.

We al 'e in no way responsible jor the opin ions expressed, or the statements made, by Correspondents.-EDITORS.

THE S.J.A.B. AND THE TERRITORIAL ARMY DEAR SIR,-I usually find myself in full accord and sympathy with the views expressed in your valuable journal. I must, however, take exception to your le ader in last month's issue. To my mind I think the Executive have s hown a very wise discretion in protestin g aga inst any attempt on the part of the members of the medical staff to use their influence, as honorary surgeons in the brigade, to recruit the ranks of any territorial medical unit with which they may be connected.

'With the passing of the old volunteer force the St. John Ambulance Brigade remains tbe only purely volunteer service in this country, and to my way of thinking we should use every endeavour to maintain it on that footing. I think it would bave been better to have stood by original order No. 137, and given all its members, from the hi g hest to the lowest, the privilege of electing in which they would serve. Then it should have been the aim and ambition of every member of the brigade to maintain our organisation at the highest pitch of proficiency, and at our own expense, ready, should our country require its aid, to do as we did in the South African War.

Under present conditions, our members will, on emergency, be absorbed into one of the two re gular services and their identity lost, and any credit which they may earn will be reflected on the unit to which they are attached, not as auxiliaries, but as fully enrolled members. This to my mind is giving away our birthright for an empty sham.- Yours respectfully, ANTI-MILITARIST.

NORTH EA S'1"ERN.-The circular issued by the President of this centre upon the result of the competitions for 1908 has been received, and once more gives evidence of the great progress the am bulance movement is making upon this railway under the fostering care of Mr. Geo. Jackson, the popular and energetic general secretary. The j udges reports on the several competitions which are incorporated, contain many valuable hints, and should prove of much service, only to the recruits in the work but to older and more practised hands.

PATENT No. 7I40/07 for Foldable Ambulance is for Sale or on License.-Chatwin, Herscbell and Co., Patent Agents, Gray's Inn Chambers, London, W.C.

P[inted and Puhlished by Messrs. DALE, REYNOLDS 6l. Co., Ltd 46 Cannon Street London, E.C., to whom all communications should be addressed.

As it is the wish and desire of the Proprietors to make this Journal as instructive and entertaining as possible, correspondents in all parts of the country are asked to give it all the help they can Superintendents of Corps and Officers of Divisions of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, Officers of the Royal Army Medical Corps (Territorials), the Volunteer Ambulance School of Instruction, and Chief Officers of Fire Brigades will, it is hoped, do their best to make it known amongst the members of their respective organisations, and will also send for publication their official news and notices. Suggest tions are invited for Prize Competitions and other matters which will advance the interest of the Journal.

We particularly desire to ask our correspondents to be brief and to the point in any communications they may send us for publication.

Correspondents sending in photos are urgently requested to state on the back of the same the name of the individual or the Corps or Brigade and give also the name and address of the sender.

We beg to advise our readers that we do not pay for photographs or copy sent, unless previously agreed upon in writing.

" F ir s t Aid " is published on t he 2 0 t h of t he mon th.

EDITORIAL.

SUCH was the message which nearly " Peace and two t housand years ago heralded the Go od =Will." birth the of Messiah. Since that time, altho u gh the nations of the world have attained a high state of civilisatIOn, and sympathy with, and relief for the suffering is never lacking, yet we do not appear to make any solid progress along the road which leads to that period whe n "Nations shall no more learn the art of war" and " s words shall be beaten into ploughshares and s pears i n t o p ru ning hooks " Contrary to this ideal the higher the state of civilisatio n to which man attains, the more deadly are the engines of war which are evolved by the ingen u ity of men, for men's destruction

Once more we are abo u t to celebrate the birth of the Saviour o f t he wo rl d, yet i n spite of His herald's message, the air is pregnan t w ith rumours of wa r an d from the Bal ka n d istr ict we read o f re serves being called up, ostensibly to mai n ta in peace , b u t more possibly to provoke, or prepare for eventu a hos tilit ies

To the thin k in g man or woman the present si uation is o n e for grave concern , and it wi ll require the greatest dip loma tic ski ll an d stat esman ship , if war is to be averted.

In the British Minister, who is responsible for the conduct of the Foreign Affairs of this country, we have a Statesman who will not fail to point out to those, who would break the peace, the terrible responsibility they will incur, should they start the prelude to a war, which might eventually spread to the whole of the European continent. God grant that at the present juncture peace may be maintained; this is our prayer, and it will be re-echoed by all loyal subjects of our Gracious King. To the people of this country it is a matter for sincere congratulation that, at the present crisis, they may rest assured that all the weight of His Majesty's powerful influence will be exercised towards the maintenance of peace. May success attend his humane efforts, and mayan all-wise Providence grant that a life so precious to the cause of peace and the interests of humanity may long be spared to us, and may "E;dward the Peace-maker," as each succeeding year rolls by, see the ideal for which he has striven so assiduously, assume a real and more abiding influence among the different nations of the earth.

In a few more days we shall be celebrating the advent of the message, and we take this opportunity to send to our readers throughout the Elllpire the old, old wish, "A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR."

SOUTHAMPTON. - Ambulance work in this to\\'n, thanks to the untiring energy of the popular and local hon. secretary, Lieut.-Col. Twiss, is now 111 full SWll1g, and classes are now running, or are in course of preparation, in parts of the town and suburbs. The statement of accounts in connection with the Ambulance Wagon Fund we have received, shows that by the number of it has been requisitioned that Col. Twiss had not under estimated the need which existed for its purchase. The Colonel pays a generous tribute of thanks to Mr. J oh?son and the members of the fire brigade for the promptitude, and the zeal and efficiency with which they have responded to all calls received The Annual Report of the Centre also to hand shows that financially it is thoroughly sound.. The press has been carefully compiled, and contams many Items of more than local interest. In the early days of the ambulance movement Southampton took up the but for some reason it was permitted to until It was revived with renewed vigour by Col. TWISS, to whom .the town certainly owes a deep of gratitude for the tIme and labour he has devoted to It.

NeE

IVe are greatly indebted to several readers connecte d with the Railway Service for much valuab l e help Since this Journal first started they have by willing co-operatio n and by enlisting fresh subscribers done much to ensure the success it has attained, and we are desirous of showing our appreciation of this valuable assistance; we shall, therefore, at ail times be pleased to carry out any further suggestions which they may make with a view to rendering FIRST AID more interesting to Railway ambulance men Will our Railway readers send their suggestions?

L. & N. W. R-Gratifying testimony was borne by the local hospital authorities to the useful character of the work performed from time to time by the members ?f the Euston Station Ambulance Corps The opportumty for thIS testimony, conveyed in communications read, was seized in connection with a smoking concert at the Euston Tavern Restaurant, and the presentation to the corps by Mr. John Royer, proprietor of the" Globe," Drummondstreet, N.W., of a beautiful floral chased silver cup Additional importance was lent to the occasion by the fa.:t that the Mayor of St. Pancras (Councillor Alfred Mills, J.P.), attended to formally commit, on behalf of the donor, the trophy to the safe keeping of the corps, his worship being supported by gentlemen associated with the whulesale and retail liquor industry.

Mr. Royer stated that, excellent as the work o f the Euston Station Am bulance Corps had been, he, as an old first aider, had thought that they were worthy of every encouragement, and that his trophy would be a help in that direction. It was proposed that the cup should be awarded to the member who in a series of competitions was adjudged to be the best at all-round ambulance work, and ownership would be established by the man who achieved three successes, not necessarily consecutively.

The Mayor of St. Pancras, in asking Mr. W B. Trew to accept the cup on behalf of the corps, praised the public spirit shown by Mr. Royer in thus encouraging first aid, a movement which had been responsible for saving many lives. Thousands of cases had, he added, been dealt with by the Euston Corps, and its mem bers had in three years raised by means of concerts over £100 for the University and the London Temperance Hospitals. He hoped that the cup would be a stimulus to the corps to further exertions and that they would soon be able to defeat the Wolverton Corps, which had gained United Kingdom hono ur s.

The London and North-Western Railway staff (Euston) have also recently presented to the Euston Station Amb ulance Corps a shield for team competition.

LONDON & SOUTH-WESTERN RtdLwAy -Pres iding at the annual smoking concert and presentation of prizes, held recently in Brunswick House, the social hall of the L. and S. W. R employes, Mr. J. W Jacomb Hood, the Company's engineer-in-chief, gave an interesti n g accou n t o f t he

Decem ber, 19 08.

am bulance work performed by the staff during the past year. Since the ambulance movement was started by the Company eight years 1,676 of their employes had ?btained first aid certIficates, and 380 were medallIon holders.

In the past year, classes, conducted voluntarily by medical men of eminence, had been held at 14 centres, and 671 cases of injury had been attended, one am bulance 'man alone (A. Illston, of the Eastleigh team) having rendered first aid in no fewer than 675 cases.

To evince the importance which the directors attached to this particular instruction, which was offered free to all the Company's servants, they had doubled the prize money divided between the four competing teams in the final trial, held in April last, for L. and S W. R Challenge Shield, and the board wished it to be understood by all ranks in their employment that they regarded first aid knowledge as a valuable qualificatlol1 in any man eager for promotion

This year the shield had been won by the Exeter team with 228i marks out of a possible 300; the Wimbledon team second, with marks; Eastleigh third, with 2 I3t marks; and Southampton Docks fourth, with 19 It marks.

Members of the winning team received silver clasps, with £20 in cash for equal distribution; the second team, bronze medals and £15; the third team £10; and the fourth £5.

Porter J. Powell, of Woking, was loudly cheered by all his colleagues when called up to receive a silver medal and £2 2S. for having saved the life of a fireman, whose legs and right arm had to be amputated, after he had been knocked down by a light engine. Other meritorious first aid services by the staff met with due recognition, and in several instances it had been acknowledged that the aid thus rendered was prompt, efficient, and creditable.

The Chairman announced that a class of 20 girls employed at the Eastleigh Works of the Company was now recei ving am bulance instruction.

MIDLAND.-The usefulness of the Nottingham Branch of the Midland Railway Ambulance Corps is apparent from the fact that on more than 300 occasions during the past twelve months members of the corps had been called upon to render first aid in Nottingham streets, and this is sufficient indication that valuable work is being accomplished by the instruction given in classes conducted by Dr. Blurton.

Mr. H. J. Weinberg, who presided over a gathering in the Castle-gate Lecture Hall on Nov. 23rd, when certificates, medallions, &c., were presented, said that there were now IS0 members in the corps. Five students had obtained gold medals and five silver ones for rendering first aid.

This gratifying record must be attributed, in a large measure, to the indefatiga.ble efforts of Dr. Blurton, to whom Lord Henry Bentinck made a presentation on behalf of the corps. It consisted, he said, of what was vulgarly termed a "toe warmer" for use in his motor car. Dr. Blurton su itably replied, saying how much he liked his work as instructor to the corps.

.An enjoyable concert programme was given during the evenmg.

During t he interval between the concert programme, a display was given, and several men received "labels" for fourth and fifth examinations Two railway employes at Carlis le have been awarded gold and silver medals by the directors of this Company for rendering first aid

Mr. D Patrickson, goods guard employed by the Company, h as been awarded a gold medal for rendering first

Dece m ber, 190 8 -FIRST aid to Mr. J. Birkett, farmer, Low Northsceugh, who received serio us i n terna l injuries and suffered from severe shock while entraining a large bull at Armathwaite' and Mr Alla n, foreman engine at Durran Hill shed, has been awarded a sIlver medal for rendering first aid to a fireman who was severely scaled at the above shed Bot h cases we re treate d in a satisf Lctory manner and both men have fully recovered from their injuries.

SOUTH-EASTERN AND CHATHAM RAILWAY.- The increased g rowth of the am bu lance movement on this line is proved by fact that tl:ere are .now 32 classes running, and we are that 111 every 111stance an increase may be for. 111 the number of candidates attending for exammatlOn m the early part of the new year. This means that additional teams should be formed, and, after all, what can be better for the success of any venture than healthy competition.

Ambu lance competitions undoubtedly go a long way towards ensuring that the first aid interest shall be maintained fully alive amongst the mem bers of a -Centre, and in this connection it is very encouraging to learn that the directors and officers of the Company, in addition to the various cups and shields offered for competition, award substantial money prizes to the best teams

The stationmasters have expressed a desire to offer several prizes for competition amongst the am bulance men employed on this railway, and for this purpose a committee has been organised, with the object of instituting a fund which will be confined only to stationmasters. The subscription will be limited to IS and will be known as the" Stationmasters' Shilling Ambulance Fund." We have been asked to request those gentlemen who have not yet forwarded their subscription to the hon. secretary, Mr. H. Harris, stationmaster, New Brompton, to do so as early as they conveniently can.

It must be very pleasing to the Chief Officers to know that the stationmasters appreciate the services of the "first aiders" under their charge, and we are likewise quite sure that the "first aiders" will appreciate this thoughtful action on the part of their immediate" chiefs."

A concert under the auspices of the Queenborough and District Corps was held in the Board Schools at Queenborough on the 20th ult., and was largely attended. The object of the concert being to raise the necessary funds in order to provide various ambulance requisities for the use of the Corps, and Mr. E. R Greenstreet, the energetic local secretary, with his committee, are to be congratulated on the success, financial and otherwise, which attended the undertaking.

On the 25th November, a concert was held in the large Concert Hall of the Albany Hotel, Folkestone, to inaugurate the opening of claSSeS in that district. Large as the room is, it was not spacious enough to accom modate all those who desired to be present. The musical programme which Mr. E. J. Pont, with the assistance of the Class Secretaries, Messrs. S. Osborn and W. Woodhams, of Folkcsto n e and Dover respectively, had got together, was of the h ighest order, and each item was much appreciated.

MARKET HARBOROUGH.-Members of this Division did a smart piece of work, on November 21st, when they removed a case from this district to Margate, in Thanet. At this time of the year Ma rgat e is not an easily accessible p lace, b u t t he d iffic ul t journey was, we understand, accomplish ed mo st sa tisfac tori ly.

A I D.-

The Grand Prior y of t he Orde r of the Hospital of St . Joh n o f Jerusalem i n Eng la n d.

Clzancery of tIle Order, December 8tlz,

THE King has been graciously pleased to sanction the following promotions and appointments to the Grand of the Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem 111 England

As Clzaplain.

The ReV. Hubert Murray Burge, M.A., D.D. As Knights of Grace.

Major George Lund (from Honorary Serving Brother), Hon. Secretary Bombay Centre, S.J.A.A.

Lieutenant-Colonel George Edward Twiss, Hon. Secretary Southampton Centre, S.J.A.A

Major Sir Alan Percy, M.D., D.P.H., Hon. Sec. Ceylon Centre, S.J.A.A.

As Lady of Grace.

The Honourable Mrs. Joyce.

As Esquire.

Lieutenant. Colonel Henry John Barnes, General Secretary St. Andrew's Ambulance Association. All of them selected in recognition of ambulance services rendered.

Selected as Honorary SerVi1tg Brother. William Henry Noble (Mersey Missions to Seamen). Enrolled as Honorary Associates. Wortley Searson Lovell, Leicester Centre. Frank Henry Turner, Leicester Centre.

In recognition of work on behalf of the St. John Ambulance Association (November Chapter, 1908.)

Epsom Salts as a First Dressing for Burns and Scalds.

IN the October number of the Illternat/o1lal Jour/lal of SurgfJY, is published a paper by Dr. M. N. Stowe of Jesup, Georgia, on the local use of magnesium sulphate as a primary dressing for burns and scalds. The paper was read at the annual meeting of the Association of Surgeons of the Southern Railway at Birmingham, Alabama. Dr. Stowe recommends the employment of magnesium sulphate because it gives instant relief and the inflammatory reaction is much reduced while there is no risk of poisonous effects from absorption.' Epsom salts are nearly always and the dressing is very inexpensive, and it is also eaSIly removed. In many cases no further dressing may be required, but even when it is thought desirable to employ any other form of dressing later on, the magnesium sulphate is valuable as a first dressing.

Dr. Stowe uses the sa Its as follows :-Where the burnt part can be imersed a saturated solution of the salts should be used and the part should be kept in it until no pain is felt on withdrawal. We may mention that water 62 Fahr dissolves more than its own weight of magnesIUm sulphate. If it is not convenient use a solution, the salts may be applied and covered WIth a wet cloth; vf a thick paste may be made and placed on the affected part, s u ch as the eyes or nose The method is simple and it appears to be worthy of trial.

-FIRST

Mistakes Often Made by First Aiders. *

By ROBERT II. MUIR, M.D., M.R.CS.

I T commencing my lecture it is hardly necessary for me to pomt out to you that a knowledge of ambulance work IS at but a little knowledge, and an old adage says "That a little knowledge is a dangerous thing." The amount of instruction which is given you in your course of lectures is very small, and the information in the official text book is very smal!, but it is sufficient for the purpose intended, If.all the details are thoroughly mastered, otherwise you Will be apt to make mistakes-and big mistakes. It is not in ambulance instruction to leave out any and the more you learn the more fully you will realtse how little you know, that is, if you are conscientious and capable ambulance men. I know of some ambulance .who, because they have passed a first aid examination, lmagme that they have nothing further to learn. I heard of instance an ambulance squad was -treating a and was Just a.bout to do the very thing they had been to aVOId when a doctor appeared on the scene, and pomted out to them their error. The men were indignant at having their treatment called into 9uestlOn, and one of them especially resented it and turn109 to the doctor, said sm!1ltly: "We are qualified members of the St. John Ambulance Association, and I think we know what we are about."

Well, let me warn you .against the display of any such spmt; .remember., as I said before, that what you are taught IS a very httle, a very useful little we will admit, but from. a lack of knowledge you may be apt to make mistakes, and there should chance to be somebody at hand who can you with timely advice, don't turn up your nose and lOtlmate that you are above receiving instructive hints because you. a:e qualified members of the St. John Ambulance ASSOCIatIOn.

object of first is, as you are aware, pnmanly to save hfe and mIn.lmlse suffering ; but I am sorry t? say I have known in which, owing to the IneffiCIency of the first aId rendered suffering instead of being mitigated has been aggravated: and even life has been thereby endangered.

I was on the staff of a hospital for accidents, and durmy term ?f office I saw many lOjured persons brought Into the hospital, and .some which .had brought in by ambulance men. were In a worse plight owlOg to improper tre.atment than they been left seriously alone; that so you Will readlly the importance of makIng sure that y?u are .dolOg the correct thing in your treatment, ar:d havlOg satIsfied yourself on this point, see that you do It well and efficiently.

.Unfortunately it has been the experir:nce of a few medlc.al men to meet with many of these bad examples of aid and as a consequence they are prone to thInk first aId as a be, if not actually harmful, IS at least but of httle service to mankind. Those of u.s, however, who studied the question thoroughly, realIse full well that thiS first aid movement has been of to the community, and if properly superVised WIll continue to be so. No doubt there are some men, .and. women too,. who manage to scrape through the exammatlon. and obtaIn the certificate, and who, failing to keep up their study and practices, when they do meet with

AI D.- December, 1908

a case, lose their heads and naturally make a hash of the

A great deal of my experience of the mistakes "first has been gained from examinations, and I propose 10 thIS lecture to recount to you some mistakes which are commonly made, but which if the "first aider" only exe:cises a little forethought and common sense, may be aVOIded.

For the want of a little forethought many men make the most absurd errors in both examinations and competitions. Sometimes I have doubted whether they were aware of the silly things they have said. In order to gIve them a cha.nce I have asked, "What was my question ?" And not, untIl I. heard them repeat my question correctly dId I reahse that they thoroughly understood it and that the treatment they suggested in their answer what they really meant. I am sure when they got home and :eferred to the text book they have been ready to kIck when they realIsed what a foolish answer they gave.

Of course, many of these mistakes which one meets with at examinations would not be likely to occur if the was dealing with a real injury; but I should Impress on you that you must try and realise that the case you are called upon to treat in the examination should be regarded as an case and treated in that spirit.

In an exammatlOn I am constantly told by candidates that they would" send for a doctor," and yet how often in one's actual everyday experie nce does one find that is just what the individual forgets to do-he does not send for the doctor. I do not know why it should be so· it is drawn attention to in the text book and is, as a rule) well "rubbed in" by the lecturer during his course of lectu:E's and is well to the fore in connection with the candidates' answers at the examination, and yet when it comes to the actual thing they allow it to go by default.

I could give you quite a small volume on mistakes but I do not propose to catalogue them all here, it would !ake too l?ng; I shall content myself, therefore, by draw109 attentIOn to a few of those most frequ ently met with.

The first mistake I should like to draw attention to is the error that "first aiders" sometimes m.ake in to realise that a patient who has met WIth an aCCident, and is suffering from fractur e or other severe injury, will in all probability feel very faint. Now, what usually happens? Candidates make such a case stand .up whilst they apply bandages or administer other first treatment. It is quite the exception to find a can.dlda.te attempt to the subclavian artery with the patIent m any other pOSItIOn than that of standing up. like this happens. You are aware that the patient has bleeding and are to arrest it by pressure on the subclavlan artery. Sho uld the man be sitting down you promptly tell him to stand up, with the result that you fail to obtain full marks. You should remember that would be accompanied by a feellOg of famtness, and In no end of cases if the patient made to stand.up he would promptly fall down.

Agam, I have known Instances where the patient has been made to stand up whilst splints were applied' in real life had. patient he might have come'down upon the lOJury and made It much more serious. Please remember that when you are next asked by your examiner to put up a fracture.

In course of studies you learn that bandages are applied to keep dressmgs or splints in position and thereby to assist in bringing the ends of the broken 'bones together, but some men apply their bandages so loosely

December, 19 08 -FIRST

they useless to retain the splint firmly the h.m b; Indeed, the bandages are so slack that it IS qUIte pOSSible to get my fist them. They may be but they are not Neatness is, of course, but the first pomt that an examiner looks to IS \\ hat. has been done is of any real servIce I t.hmk I am correct in stating that the maJonty of apply their bandages so lo?sly they are 01 very lIttle service. As a reverse to plcture we have others who apply the bandages so tIghtly that they cause the patient a great deal of unsuffenng. Remem there is a happy medium, and It IS to the happy medIUm you should aspire to attain.

In the course of my duties as an Examiner I have pupils who, either from nervousness or from failing to thmk beforehand, and treat the wrong limb. Now, at the hands of some examiners they would lose all marks. I am not as hard as that, but the fault is a careless one Make quite certain before you start your treatment you are on the right side. I know an instance where a lady met wi th an accident near to a hospital; the am bulance who attended to the injury prior to her removal used hiS umbrella as a splint. After her leg was secure she was conveyed in an ambulance to the hospItal, where, on 'arrival, she was seen by the House and after limb had been properly set and the patIent put to bed m one of the wards, the doctor handed the umbrella to porter, the same time telling him, when the owner caded for It he should like to see him. The doctor's .instructions were duly noted, and when the owner of umbrella called, the House Surgeon was sent for; the man, he said, "I perceive you know somethIng about ambulance work, and I desire to congratulate you now on the way in which you put that umbrella on your patient's l.eg; just .a hint, however, in future, remember to apply It to the 11mb which is broken." Even in a real case this" first aider," either from nervousness or self-consciousness, had lost his head and attended to the uninjured leg.

As showing that this is not an isolated case I may men.tion a I .had with my partner the ot'her day. I saId to hIm, I m gOIng down to Ashford to give a lecture on mistakes made by ambulance men, can you teU me of any?" He replied, "The only one that occurs to me at this moment is the very common one of puttin a up the wrong limb." b

One of. the questions frequently asked by an examiner IS: "What IS a compound fracture?" Now I think I'm well with in the mark by saying that there is not one man in .who can give the correct answer to that question. It IS mcorrectly answered not only by candidates at examinations, but by men in the competition field. !he reply almost invariably gi\'en to the question IS "that a compound fracture is a bone that is broken and showing through the skin." I have no doubt tha.t this absurd mistake is the outcome of that diagram which, for the purposes of illustrations, is sent to all classes the lecturer's use, but I would remind my readers that they study their interesting little text book they will find It most clearly and accurately described. "A compound fracture is one where the skin being broken, allows the air to get to the seat of injury." Think of this when you are next asked the question. Many men, in fact most men say, "A compound fracture is one where the bone sticking right out of the skin, and the air gets to it." Well, probably it would

N ow, with regard to a fractured spine, one does not

AID.-

get made in replying to a question conmJury, although very few people can tell w at part IS fractured. Occasionally, however one gets a remarkdbly strange answer. I was told not ldng since b a student that the proper to treat a fractured to get a long padded splmt and put it up against the splOe before you did anything else 'Veil 1 h . d \ ave never receIve such an answer here, nor should I expect to do so.

I have been present at some railway centres when a team has had injury to treat, and the way the poor unfortunate patIent has been placed on a plank has been enough to make one's blood creep. It must be remembered that ar:y of the spine is calculated to inthe mIschief, more especially to the spinal cord, and yet the way that poor unfortunate patient has been shuffled about on that plan.k has been most alarming; apparently they forgut the. senous nature of the injury and what might result from their want of care.

" Another that is rarely answered correctly is Wh.at are the. sIgns of fracture of the base of the skull?" In replymg, candidates give the distinctive features about the blood or clear fluid from the ear, swelling behind head, and. blood commg from mouth, and it may Involve the orbIt, but. they seldom say patient may have sympt?ms of concuSSIOn and compression. I know it sometImes happens that men do not attend all the lectures and consequently they miss the fact that a fracture of skull has" distinctive" as well as other signs.

If you saw some of the methods for the treatment of a fractured jaw, which it has been my privilege tu witness you. would be intensely amused. Many men seem to an Idea that the correct thing to do is to cover up the mouth, just to keep it warm I suppose, for undoubtedly the bandage w.ould not k.eep the bones in position, for, generally the patIent can put out his tongue, talk and do anythlOg else Without the slightest discomfort.

asked to put up a fractured rib I'll guarantee the maJonty of men would apply the bandages incorrectly. The ribs most frequently fractured are the 6th, 7th, 8th, or 9th, and most." first aiders: put on the lower bandage well below the nbs. It certamly keeps the stomach nice and warm, but it is not of the slightest service to the fractured rib. One other point in connection with this it is invariably applied very neatly, but I have sometImes seen bandages so slack that it was possible to put one's arms underneath. Not much support for a fractured rib there. I once asked a pupil how to treat a case of fractured ribs with bleeding from the lungs, and was answered that it should be bandaged and a long splint applied to keep it still.

Now, regarding the treatment of a fractured clavicle, I do not think that many men understand that the object of the pad in the arm pit and the bandage round the ribs is to force the outer fragments of the clavicle into their proper position. I assume this because I find that in the majority of cases only a very small pad is used, and in many others the operator only puts a bandage round the elbow. Its these little details which score in examination or competItIOn. Pupils who pride themselves on having treated their test very nicely and very neatly are surprised when they find the examiner inserting his band here and there between the bandages, and they are still more surprised when they learn they only got balf-marks. This is the point, if this man was called upon to treat an actual case would he try only to make it look pretty, to look neat, or would he, in the interest of his patient and to relieve

* A Lecture given to the Members of the S E Ambulance Centre at Ashfurd. & C. Railway

-FIRST his pain, apply his bandages so that the treatment should be effective?

Take the case agam of a fracture involving the elbow joint. An examiner sees this very neatly put up with an angular splint, but the average man seems to think that there his treatment ends, he never tells the examiner that when he got the man home he should apply ice or other cold applications to the elbow, and having put the arm in a comfortable position he would keep his patient at rest and quiet until the arrival of the doctor. Why they do not say so, I cannot understand it's part of the treatment.

In the case of a fractured pelvis, there is one thing that is olten omitted by a candidate in giving his treatment. They put on the bandages, but they omit to say that they would place the man in the most comfortable position, now if you do not say it, how is an examiner to that you would do it? By the way, the text-book tells you to put the bandages round the pelvis, practically it is the same position which some candidates select for the treatment of fractured ribs, and the Examiner has to put the query as to whether the treatment is intended for fractured ribs or pelvis.

It is exceptional on the South-Eastern and Chatham Railway to find a fractured knee-cap that is not put up neatly, but it is rarely put up properly As a rule, the so far apart that the broken bones would not bekept m positlOn The object of this bandage is ,to press the lower fragments and up the upper fragments down. -r:he bandages are apparently put on solely with a vIew .to look neat. Well, they do look that, but as an effective bandage, they are ab-solutely useless.

Now, it often occurs to me that when some men read text-book, they miss that portion which deals with dlslocatlOns You ask them a question upon it and they look at you, fidget about, say, "ahem," and cough. Some perhaps, say "I t.hat" quit.e well." You say, well, go on-out With It! FmaUy, they admit they do not know. Now, I am not going to tell you the treatment simply to point out that apparently lDstructIOns m the book are sometimes ignored. You know the Manual distinctly tells you that should you come a.cross a dislocation, never attempt to It-never. to get the JOlDt back into the socket.

IS because thIS IS one of the rules which is sometimes disreg.arded by " first aiders " that some doctors do not like first ald. not the fault of first aid-it's the fault of the me!1 who fad to d? :vhat they are told to do or do that whIch they are dlstmctly warned against doing. Please n.ot to go beyond what you are told in that mterestmg ltttle book.

(To be continued).

AnnoT.-Sixty-five men of this smart Corps under Chief Surgeon R. H. Grimbly and Chief Supt. Jewell, paraded last month for inspection by Deputy Inspector-General M Coates, M.D., KN. Headed by the band the corps. marched from headquarters to the market. At the. conclusIOn of the inspection the inspecting officer all ranks on the excellent work he had wItnessed .He especially complimented Sergt. Rice on the way lD which the books and records had bee k t TI n ep 1e care nea.tness with which they had been kept was most creditable and should be brought before the notice of the Deputy Commissioner. He (the inspecting officer) should make a most favourable report.

The Motor Ambulance.

IT is now genera ll y recogn ised that, as in the case of the .fire service,. for ambu lance purposes is supenor m pomt of speed and capability for long distAnces.

On December 6th the Metropolitan Asy l ums Board received the report of the Ambulance Committee which stated that experience with motor am bulances had convinced them that the time had now arrived when it was desirable that they shou ld be used for the general co n veyance of acute cases. It was decided that the Western at .Fulhar.n should be first eq u ipped, and in comWith thiS recommendation the Board agreeJ to obtam tenders for the supply of eight motor ambulances to that station

Although, of the number of motor ambulances on active .service is small as compared with those drawn by horses, still the above shows that the leading authorities are now favourably impressed with the results of the experiments which have been made, and we do not doubt that at no distant date the majority of municipal police and military authorities will adopt the motor for purposes

As v:e believe that some of our readers, who are in111 transport work, have under consideration the questlOn of further ambulance provision, we think it would not out of place to give a few particulars regarding the of a motor ambulance. For much of the descnptive matter we are indebted primarily to our contemporary lIfotor Traction.

The principal objects for which an ambulance vehicle is are briefly as follows:- The conveyance of patIents from home to hospital or convalescent home and vice versa, to proceed promptly to street and other accidents, and afterwards transport the injured to the hospital the. of wounded soldiers in time of war. In majorIty of cases dealt with question of both space and comfort c:f utmDst Importance, and in both these .respects It IS claImed that the motor is decidedly supenor to the horse drawn vehicle.

In both vehicles there are many necessary features whIch are common to both, but these are for the most part confined to the body. In the motor ambulance chassis however! there ar.e one or two important points that caii for speCIal from the intending purchaser.

Speed of c?u,rse, an essential qualification, as life may be.lost If the m]ured person is. not promptly conveyed hospital. It would also be an Important consideration In. the case of an epidemic in s.ome large town, when it might be necessary to convey patIents to isolation areas in the shortest possible time.

The brakes which an ambulance is fitted should be capable of the pace quickly in crowded traffic, but th: t1r.ne .smooth in action, to minimise any ]oltmg or Jarnng, the effects of which might have senous conseq u ences for the patient.

The steering mechanism be such as to give a Wide lock, so that the vehIcle may be readily guided through traffic, and for this reason also the wheel base should not be te:o l.ong, if the carriage is to work in towns or on narrow wmdmg roads. Crowded traffic is often the cause of delay in convey.ing patients to hospita l, but we are that much of thiS would be avoided i f ambuvehicles were fitted with a distinctive go n g to hera ld their approach.

T h e cl utc h of a petro l dr iv e n ambu lance a lso meri ts

Decem ber, 19 0 8. -FIRS T

special attention, for while it should ensure a gradual engagement of d riving and driven members to lessen any shock that mIght ?e felt whep. starting or changing speed, for traffic work It should be capable of "picking up" quickly

Silence of the engine, and in fact of the whole of the working of the mechanism, is desirable, combined with as little vibration as is practicable. As regards flexibility of the driving power, the steam engine and electric motor are all that can be desired. In this connection the mechanism of the petrol driven vehicle should be such as to render the action of changing speed as little as possible, and as quietly also For this reason a fairly powerful engine is desirable

As in all other types of mechanically-propelled vehicles, reliability is one of the chief considerations in connection with a motor am bulance, for should it break down whilst conveying a serious case to hospital, the consequences might be serious. In order to guard against this contingency, the engine and driving mechanism of the vehicle _should be constantly inspected to ensure its being kept in good working order, and all repairs when necessaryshould be carried out with as little delay as possible.

Although to some extent the vibration of the ambu-

A I D.-

tion and the desirability of reducing this as much as possible by the chassis springs and smaller springs underneath each stretcher. If, however, horizontal spring;s were also fitted at each end of the stretcher carriers, theSe ,,-auld serve to any. occasioned by sudden starting and stopptng or vanatlOns IU the speed of the vehicle.

The question of ventilation is of great importance in all am bulance vehicles, matter what their type but with the motor am bulance, oWing to the speed at which it travels there is always the risk of having too much. The most for ventilators has been found to be high up on either Side, and on the door at the back, so that whatever the speed the vehicle is travelling at, no draught is felt inside.

Much more might be said which would doubtless be of interest to many of our readers, but space is limited we will therefore conclude our article this month with just a few remarks as to the upkeep.

As regards the cost of running, there is no reason why the motor should not prove the more economical if given proper treatment.

In the case of at motor ambulance which is kept for the sole purpose of dealing with street accidents, the cost of maintenance should work out at a very low figure, owing tn the fact that the vehicle, except in very excep-

BJ' coudesy 1 [Thc COll/II/crcial .lIolor

The body of this Ambulance Brougham was recently constructed in the workshops of the 1Ietropolitan Asylums Board, to whom the vehicle belongs The chassis is a standard 16 H.P. Argyll.

lance vehicle may be minimised as far as the patients are concerned by means of suitable spring suspension for the stretchers, the suspension of the chassis should also be arranged to absorb as far as possible the larger shocks experienced when travelling on bad roads. For this purpose shock absorbers, of which there are several good types on the market, might be fitted with advantage.

The class of tyre; most suitable for the motor ambulance will of course depend principally on the weight of the vehicle itself. Whenever possible, pneumatic tyres should be fitted, on account of their superior re3ilience, as compared with solid, provided that adequate steps be taken to deal with as little delay as possible. For cases of this kind a spare wheel should invariably be fitted. These wheels can be fitted in a few minutes alongside the wheel carrying the deflated tyre, or can be substituted for the entire wheel and tyre. There is, however, another method quickly detachable rims and tyre -o f which there are quite a number of suitable tyres on the market-are used.

Of course, for the military ambulance wagon, solid tyres would be more satisfactory on account of the very rough ground it would often have to negotiate.

We have previously referred to the question of vibra-

tional cases, only runs a very short total distance every day. For this reason, therefore, although th e interest. on capital must be far larger than for a horse-drawn depreciation and repairs can be reduced to such a 011111mum that the total running and standing charges would probably work out to less than the cost of horse traction. Assuming, however, that this result was not reached, and motor haulage proved the most expensive of the two, the difference would be so small that the advantages of the motor would be obtained at a cost far below th eir value

Should, however, the motor ambulance be attacl:ied to a military or other hospital where it is likely to be kept hard at work for the greater portion of the time, a strong argument may be brought forward in favour of. its lower cost, owing to the large amout of work It can get through, in comparison to that of which the horse am bulance is capable of in a like period.

The Prince of Wales and the Chapter-General of the St. John Ambulance Brigade have of honour to Pte. J. Weeks, of the Exeter DIVISiOn, tn recognition of his gallant conduct in jumpin g before an express train and rescuing two children.

Brevities.

THE new food regulations recently drawn up by the Local Government Board in pursuance of the Public Health Act, [907, are now in force. The regulations have been framed with the object of insuring that articles of food which are unfit for human consumption shall be dealt with at the port of discharge, so that the danger to the public health from the consumption of unwholesome food may be prevented. The medical officer of health is empowered by the regulations to examine any articles of food landed within his district, and if, in his opinion, an article is unwholesome, he may prevent its sale until it has been examined by a justice. Should the magistrate be satisfied that the article he examines is unsound, he is required to condemn the food and order its destruction, unless it is proved to him that the article is not intended for human consumption. If any difference arises in relation to anything done under the new regulations, the dispute is to be referred to the Local Government Board for determination. With a view to securing greater efficiency and uniformity of inspection in the regulations, the L.G. B. will be glad at any time to receive information in cases where foods have been found to present unusual or suspicious characteristics.

SIR RICHARD TEMPLE, Assistant Director of the Ambulance Department of the Order of St. John, who recently gave valuable evidence before the Royal Commission on Mines, in the course of an interesticg interview with a contemporary referred to a suggestion emanating from mine managers themselves which was that a first aid certificate should be demanded of all boys and youths before they can become miners proper. It would not be difficult to secure this, and it wO'lld result in every miner being in a very short time hence, competent to help his brother miner in case of accident. Lastly, the establish_ of fixed rescue parties should be made compulsory in every mine and colliery under a Home Office Order; and at the same time the Mines Regulation Act of 1887, which provided that am bulances or stretchers, with splints and bandages, should be kept at the mine ready for immediate use in case of accident, should be amended so as to include such other appliances, books, and information as may be required by the Home Office. Rescue parties would be attached to rescue stations, and become corps or divisions of the St. John Ambulance Brigade. They would be taught on a special syllabus from a special text-book on the lil"!es of those already existing for first aid, horne nursing, and so on, and would be instructed and examined on the same principles and by similar methods. The expense of forming classes and corps is, under the association system, very small, and as all the necessary instructions on the subject have long ago been cut and dried, it is quite easy to start them.

AID.- December, 190 8.

The London Pr iv ate F ire B r ig ade s' Associ at ion.

A LARGE and representative numbers of the members of this Association assembled at the Finsbury Town Hall, on November 25th, to witness the presentation of prizes won at the last annual tournament, and to listen to an enjoyable musical programme carried out under the management of Mr. J. F. W. Ashby, of the Railway Clearing House.

During the evening Sir J. c. Bell, Bart., late Lord Mayor of the City of London, who was introduced by Lieut.-Colonel Fox, who presided, presented the prizes. These, in accordance' with the rules of the Association, have to be in kind, and very miscellaneous was the sorting out for presentation to their respective owners was no S111esure.

A hearty vote of thanks was accorded to Sir John at the conclusion of the ceremony, and, in responding, he (Sir John) stated how pleased he W.lS to support the Private Fire Brigades, for he fully recognised the excellent work they were doing in minimising the risk of fire, by the prompt rendering of first aid fire service in the case of an outbreak occurring on their employers premises. In his opinion Private Fire Brigades were performing almost a national service in thus preventing serious fires, and he appealed for sympathy and encouragement for their _ Association and its members.

Hearty votes of thanks were also accorded to the Chairman for presiding and to the Artistes.

The annual competition for the Ambulance Challenge Cup, presented by the proprietors of FIRST Am, took place at the Mason's Hall Tavern on November qth, when the honorary surgeon (Surgeon Major Maitland Coffin) officiated as judge. Two teams only faced the music, namely, the" Clarnico" (Messrs. Clark, Nicholls & Coombs) and the" Macdale" (Messrs. McCorquodale & Co.). After an interesting contest, "Clarnico" were declared the victors, with 20 points, as against 104 secured by their opponents, the last year's winners.

By invitation of their Honorary Chaplain (the Rev. T. W . Wood), the mem bers of the Association a ttenden Divine Service at the Priory Church, St. John, Clerkenwell, on Sunday, November 15th. Mustering 111 the Guildhall Yard, the firemen to the number of about 150 marched, headed by the Royal Small Arms Band, via the city to the church. Before entering the sacred building, the brigades were inspected by Lieut.-Col. Fox, Vice-President of the Association, the inspecting officer being accompanied down the line by the Chairman, Capt. Miller, who was also on parade. A shor.tened form of morning service was used, and an appropnate sermon was preached by the Honorary Chaplain. At the conclusion of the service the brigades marched back to the Guildhall, and were subsequently dismissed after a few encouraging words from Capt. Miller.

We are given to understand that the meeting which it was proposed to to the best means for promotmg a greater mterest m amb ulance first aid amongst the several brigades affiliated to thp, Association has been indefinitely postponed This we think is a matter for regret in these days when the risks and dangers of the streets increasing, these cool-headed first aid fire-fighters would prove with proper training, valuable ambulance auxiliaries in the event of a serious s t reet acc id ent.

r December, 190 8. -F I R ST

Our Portrait Gallery.

VAUGHAN BATESON, F.R.G.S., &c., &c., HON. SURGEON, BRADFORD CITY FIRE BRIGADE, DISTRICT SURGEON (YORKSHIRE DISTRICT) N.F.B.U., HON. SURGEON BRADFORD CITY DIVISION, S.J.A.B., HON. TREASURER BRADFORD CENTRE, S.J.A.A.

THE subject of our sketch in this month's Gallery is a son of the first Borough Solicitor and Town Clerk of Harrogate-the late A. Malcolm Bateson-and he inherits not only the features, but also the well known characteristics of his father, for like him he has been actively

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Company there. An ardent and enthusiastic Volunteer, he was a regular attendant at the annual camps, whether at Aldershot, Netley, or elsewhere.

His career has been an eventful one. For a time he a commission in the Royal Navy, resigning for famIly reasons. He was also for a time in the Indian Medical Uncovenanted Service, and lived for three years on the frontiers of our Indian Empire, in close contact with the Ghurka, Tibetan, and Bhootanese peoples.

Since his return home Dr. Bateson has lectured to Royal, and other learned Societies throughout the Kingdom, on the interesting experiences through which he has passed, and on the proposition of Sir J. Hooker-the first explorer of this part of the world-supported by Lord Ripon, an ex-Viceroy of India, he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society of England. He is also a member of the Royal Asiatic Society.

To our northern readers Dr. Bateson is well-known, for his chatty and instructive lectures which are interspersed with a vein of humour, and there is no more popular lecturer amongst the ambulance workers in the Police, Fire, and Railway Services in the district. He has a great admiration for the members of these bodies, who are willing to sacrifice much of their scanty leisure, in order to learn how to be of use to one another in time of need, uninfluenced by mercenary or any other consideration. So displaying noble traits making one think better of one's fellow men.

Since his connection with the St. John Ambulance Brigade Dr. Bateson has been mainly responsible for changing a " paper division" deeply in debt, into a healthy and well organised division of skilled first aiders. He is a believer in strict discipline when at drill or on duty, and is a staunch advocate for a close adherance to Brigade Regulations, and anything beyond the legitimate sphere of first aid duties finds in him a stern and uncompromising opponent. An enthusiastic worker, he is apt at times to mov€ a little too fast for less energetic workers, and his rigid adherence to what he believes to be right, and his straight talking, has, at times, led to his receiving much opposition. But, nothing daunted, he has ever stri ven to uphold the honour of am bulance work, and to check its abuse, with a desire to prove to the medical profession how valuable such aid is when properly regulated.

connected with many good movements In the "Sister Services "-the Ambulance and Fire Brigades-he has for many years been an active and enthusiastic worker. Recently, when receiving one of the many tokens of regard from those who know him, and appreciate his zeal and interest in the cause, he related his first experience in connection with" first aid" work.

He was crossing the Atlantic when only in his "teens," when a sailor met with an R.ccident and had a portion of the top of his skull knocked off. There was no doctor on board, and the subject of our sketch was led to do his best for the poor fellow, who, we are glad to relate, eventually made a good recovery, whether as a result of, or in spite of, the treatment, the worthy Doctor says he will not venture to assert.

While a medical student at Leeds University, Dr. Bateson was led to take an interest in ambulance work and he became a member of the old 6th Company of the Volunteer Medical Staff Corps, and on taking up an appointment as Resident Assistant to Professor Knox, at the G lasgow Royal Infirmary, he was attached to the local

The services of the Doctor are constantly requistioned both a5 a judge in ambulance competitions, and as an examiner for ambulance classes, and in the latter capacity we may mention that although by no means too exacting, he places a high standard on the value of the ambulance certificate, and candidates aspiring to acquire it, must prove conclusively their fitness to its possession, lest an injustice should be done to those, who have already qualified and proved their worth.

One of the pioneers of the local Salvage Corps he has been attached to the Fire Service for a long period, Dr. Bateson has many friends therein, and anything appertaining to their life is an interesting topic to him. He has on several occasions regaled the members of his own Brigade with lantern and in other ways has devised means whereby to relJeve the hours on duty. He is especially pOlJUlar with child ren, possessing in a remarkable manner the gift of gaining their confidence and interp.st.

As a Surgeon on the Yorkshire District of the National Fire Brigades Union, he takes a keen and interest in the work of the Am bulance Department, and IS a member of the Amb ulan ce Committee, at the meetings

of which he is a regular attendant. He is also an Honorary Life Member of the St. John Ambulance Association. Possessing in a marked degree those qualifications which tend to make friendships, the subject of our sketch has earned the regard and esteem of all those with whom he has been associated A typical Yorkshireman, he has the ready knack of inspiring confidence, and the circle of his friends extends far beyond the centre of the busy city in which he resides.

ST.JOHN AMBUlANct

o No. District (Metropolitan Corps.) BROl\ILEY.-Dr. Yolland, who has for some time past acted as Supt. of this division, in addition to holding the appointment of Hon. Surgeon, has felt compelled to relinlinquish the former office. It is not without a certain measure of regret that we learnt this, the genial doctor has so ungrudgingly devoted himself to the needs of the division, both in training its mem bers and pleading its cause before the pu blic, that one regrets to learn of even a partial severance, although doubtless with the many calls upon his professional time, the doctor must often have felt the need of some of the leisure which he so unselfishly sacrificed for the benefit of the division.

'1Ve are glad to learn that a capable officer to succeed Dr. Yolland as Supt. has been found in the person of Mr. Healey, therecently-appointed Master at the Bromley Union. I t is interesting to recall the fact that Mr. Healey was st Officer of the Lincoln Corps, and volunteered for service in South Africa during the late war. Ordered to report at St. John's Gate, he did so in February, 190o, and was drafted to Portsmouth, from which port he sailed on the transport "Servia." Disembarking at Durban, he proceeded to Estcourt, and was made Chief Ward Master of the Medical Division in NO.7 General Hospital.

On returning to England, Mr. Healey received the of the City of Lincoln in recognition of his serVIces.

It is interesting to note that :v1r. Healey was formerly in the 24th Regiment, and saw previous service in South Africa during the Zulu War in l879.

No. l5 DIVI SION.- This division, which is composed of employes of the L.B. & S.c.R. engaged at New Cross had a tea and social gathering on November 28th in our of having won the Directors' Cup at the last' competi tion in connection with this railway.

An excellent tea had been provided by Sergt. and Mrs. Cherry, and at its conclusion a capital entertainment under the management of Private Ward, was much ciated by the mem bers and friends.

the interval Hon. Surgeon Stanley Davies, who preslded, spoke of the pleasure it had afforded him as hon. surgeon and superintendent to see the cup won by members of that division. He hoped that every effort would be made to retain it.

The evening was brought to a close by the chairman

AI D.- December, l908. proposing the health of the winning team, a toast which was drunk from the challenge cup.

TI-IE ST. JOHN'S GATE NURSIN G DIVlslON.-Never has pleasure and charity been better combined than on the evening of November 2 lSt, when the officers and members of this nursing division gave a Whist Drive in aid of its fund for the Distribution of Clothing to the CIerkenw ell Poor.

The gathering took place at Slater)s Restaurant, N ewgate-street, and over one hundred and seventy guests assembled there at seven o'clock. They were received by the Lady Superintendent (Mrs. Lines), Mrs. Barnes (lst Nursing Officer), and l4 members of the division, all of whom looked very smart in full uniform.

Supt. Lines had kindly undertaken the chief management of the evening, and after he had announced the rules, with the addition of several humorous interpolations, play was started in real earnest.

During an interval refreshments were served and partaken of by the guests, and much chatter and gaiety prevailed at the many small tables, which conveniently seated two couples each.

At the conclusion of this interesting interlude play was resumed, and at the close of the twenty-fourth game a good deal of excitement was manifest when Mr. Lines announced the several winners of the beautiful prizes which had made a tempting array throughout the evening.

The presentation of these was made by Mrs. Lines, who then in an admirable little speech thanked the guests for their kindly help, by means of which a great many more garments would be given to the des erving poor of Clerkenwell.

A very heart y vote of thanks was proposed to Mr. and Mrs. Lines for the very excellent arrangements which they had made for the evening'S entertainment, and which had doubtless necessitated a great amount of work.

The gathering then broke up.

Amongst those present were Mr. Sleath G e nt, fo r many years a nursing officer of the St. John's Gate N ursing Division, Supt. S. Vilven, of the Head::juarters Staff, the officers of the G.N.R. Division, the G.W.R. Division, the Cyclist Division, the South Metropolitan Gasworks Division, the Hampstead Division, the East Ham Nursing Division, the Children's Home Nursing Division, and the Balham and Streatham Nursing Division.

We understand that the annual distribution of clothing will take place on Decem ber 2 st, and it is very satisfactory to record that this year the number of garments is in excess of previous years.

No. 2 District.

FOLKESTONE.-On Decem ber 4th Surgeon Lieut.-Col. J. Thornton Gilbert and Pte. Care, of this Division, wer e presented with medals awarded by the Queen of the Netherlands, in recognition of their gallantry in putting off in an open boat in a rough sea to render aid to a seaman reported to be seriously injured in the collision which had occurred between the "Schelderstroom" and" Forfarshire."

No. 3 District.

BIRMINGHAM.-The annual Church parade of the Birmingham Corps was held on November 15th, at the parish church, St. Martin's, when the men, under the co mmand of the chief superin tendent, marched from headquarters accompanied by the City Police band (by kind

December, 1908. -FIRST permission of <;:hief Constable). The men appeared smart and soldler-hke, and presented an imposing sight as they marched through the streets of the city. The service was conducted by the Rector of Birmin g ham (Canon J. Denton Thompson, M.A.), who was assisted by the Rev. H. Montague Dale, M.A., and the Rev. - Asher.

In the course of an eloquent sermon, Canon Thompson said, among the many c hurch parades held in the parish throug.hout the year, he looked forward to none With greater than the parade of the St. John Ambulance Corps. They were a body of men who denied themselves fo.r the good of the sacrificing time thought 1D o:der that they mIght devote both to higher mterests .and dutIes. When he realised how many of them had qualified themselves for this work by hard strenuous sacrificial endeavour, often at the of a 'hard day's work, ?e pitied the man who was not proud of the corps. to the work the corps had accomplished, he pomted out that on public duty, a hundred and twenty cases had been dealt with, whilst nearly 4,000 cases had been. attended t.e by the ambulance men, when not on pubbc duty, dunng the past official year. That made them begin to realise the potency of the movement.

The nursing sisters, although not parading with the men, were present at the church. service, which was fully choral, was of a most char.acter, and a special anthem was renJered by the cholT, whI!e Dr. Reynolds presided at the organ.

The PolIce band accompanied the singing of the hym.ns, and the National Anthem at the close of the serVlce.

After the service the corps marched to the Town Hall where the men were dismissed. '

The or: parade were Chief Surgeon T. Nelson, M.D.; ChIef Supermtendent Fred Gilbert, Superintendent Secretary J. H. Hawkins, Superintendent S. Nutt, lSt Offi cers Gardner, Challoner and Shaw and 2nd Officer Martindale; also 1St Nursing Officer M'iss Richardson.

The annual competition in connection with this corps took place in Bristol-street Schools on Saturday afternoon December 5th, when five teams presented themselves fo; adjudication at the hands of the judges, Asst.-Commissioner T. H. Woolston and Hon. Surgeon H. G. Webster.

It was the Lawley-street railway men who had carned off the shleld on three previous occasions were not qualified to compete, not having complied with the Brigade :Reg ulations.

After a spirited contest the judges gave their decision as. follows .: - Stewart and Lloyd's team 1St, with po:nts; Mltchell and .Butler's team 2nd, with 204 points; Midland Central Station team 3rd, with 190 points ; the L. & N. W. (Curzon-street) te.am 4th, with l541 points; and Nelson-street team 5th, WIth lSI t points.

The. individual efficiency competrtlOn m connectIOn Wlth this Corps and open to members of the Headquarters Division only was conducted in three parts on November loth, 17th, and 24th. !he tests in Part 1. related to individual bandaging for mjury to the liver, and simple fracture of the left leg. The only available splint being a walking stick. Possible marks, 50. The tests in Part II. were for fireman's lift and artificial respiration. The candidates had to suppose that the patient in endeavouring to rescue a person from a burning building was suffocated by smoke, and, falling, fract,!red hIS left humerus close to the shoulder joint. Posslble marks, 100. In Part Ill. each competitor was

AID.91

to answer in writing twelve questions on ambulance work. Possible marks, 100.

Hon. Surgeon W. H. Chamberlain judged parts I. and III.; Hon. Surge?n I:'. A.. Henshaw judged Part II. Both expressed t hen satIsfactIOn at the quality of the work done.

following was judges' award : - 1, Private F. T. 'Vhltmg, 21 4 ; 2, T. G. Howe, 2 3, Pri.vate C. .W. Stafford, 20 9 ; 4, First-class Sergeant Lloyd, 200 ; 5 Pnvate F W. Fletcher, J99. The maximum number of marks whlch 1;>e obtained was 2 So. cup gIven In 1905 for this competition, by ?vIr. S. B. Wllkms.on, becomes the property of the winner. We that It has been replaced by Mr. Wilkinson with a the winning of the Dewar Shield, in WhICh It w1l1 be remembered the splendid individual work of the team was a notable The new cup will be held for twelve l?onths. Pnzes for the 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th have been glven by Supt. Secretary H. Wilkinson.

WELLIN GBO ROUGH.-A most interesting gathering took place on Decem ber 5th at the Clarence Restaurant when the officers, members and n'Jrsing sisters of this foregathered to do. honour to their retiring Chief Officer (Mr. T H. Hdto n) , and to present to him a gift to mark the affectIOnate regard in which he was held by all ranks.

. were one hundred present at the gatherwhich was preSIded over by Chief Supt. Cuthbert Nlcholson, who was supported by the guest of the evening and by District Chief Surgeon W. E. Audland and othe; officers

At the close of the repast, Chief Supt. Nicholson made a few o.f the regret which was felt by at of late Chief Supt. He had no mtentlOn of saymg anythmg fulsume about their guest, for they all knew that such a course would be distasteful to Mr. Hilton, but he might say that no sooner was the idea mootyd that they should show in some practical manner how much they appreciated his services, than it met with an immediate response, and they were assem bled there that evening to present to Mr. Hilton, something which he was sure he would value, given as it was with best wishes for his future, and with happy recollections of the past. Before resuming his seat Mr. Nicholson read a telegram from Asst. Commissioner Woolston, who would have been with them but for official duty, which detained him at Birmingham.

The presentation was made by the District Chief Surgeon in a few well chosen words, in which he briefly touched in turn upon the long and record of the recipient during his ambulance career, alluding to the fact that he was an Honorary Serving Brother of the Order of St. John, an d had received both the service medal and the South African medal for services rendered in connecnection with the dispatch of men to the South African War. One great secret of Mr. Hilton's success, the worthy doctor, before handing over the gift, was his unfailing good temper and his spirit of hopefulness even in the time of difficulty.

Dr. Audland then, amidst loud applause, handed to Mr. Hilton a massive silver salver, bearing the following inscription :-

"Presented to Mr. T. H. Hilton by the officers, men, and nursing sisters of the Wellingborough Corps of the St. John Ambulance Brigade on the occasion of his retirement from the post of Chief Superintendent, and in recognition

-FIRST

of his services rendered during a period of nearly 20 years. Decem ber, 1908."

Several of the officers added their personal testimony to the work and worth of Mr. Hilton, and that gentleman, who had quite an ovation when rising to respond, was evidently deeply touched by the many proofs of affectionate regard. "Words failed him," said Mr. Hilton, "to express all he felt, but he thanked them from the bottom of his heart. For nearly twenty years they had pulled together, and he should ever regard that period as the brightest in his life." After thanking the several speakers for their kindly reference to his wife and daughter, he concluded by assuring his friends that he should still take a warm interest in the welfare of the corps.

No. 4 District.

BELFAST.-The annual competition for the handsome Challenge Cups, held under the auspices of the local centre of the S.J.A.A., took place at the R.I.C Station, M usgra ve-streEt, on N o\'em ber 2 st. The judges were Col. McFarland and Drs. Cal well Leslie and Rusk. The Belfast Cup was this year won by a team representing the St. James's Gate Division, Dublin, the Lord Mayor's Cup being awarded to a team repreEenting the Belfast Fire Brigade.

CHORLEY.-Inspector-General Preston, R.N., of the Royal Naval Auxiliary Sick Berth Reserve, who was accompanied by Col. Trimble, CM.G., inspected and examined the am bulance men from Warrington and Chorley on November 25th. Inspector-General Preston complimented the men on the excellence of their work, and said it was most creditable that in their first year several of the members had undergone seven d.a) s training on hospital ships or in the shore hospitals.

CITY OF DUBLIN.- This division has recently acqu:red new headquarters at 9, Lower Sack ville-street, and a special appeal is to be issued for increased subscriptions. Supt. Thompson is to be congratula[ed on the progress that the division has made since its inauguration. Both he and those working with him have never spared themselves in carrying out their voluntary duties, and it is to be hoped th.at the manufacturers and other large employers of labour wIll respond in no niggardly spirit, and thereby assist to the further efficiency of a body of men, who have durmg the past three years undoubtedly rendered a great pu blic service.

. HASLINGDEN.-The local division here is hoping to raIse the sum of £ 1,000 for the purpose of acquiring headquarterE, and this end in view a four days' bazaar was held, commencmg on November 26th. The opening cerem?ny on the first day was undertaken by the Chief CommlSSI?ner (Inspector-General Belgrave Ninnis, M.D., R.N.), 'y\ ho down from London especially to undertake the functlOn, an act of courtesy which was much appreciated by the local division.

The proceedings were presided over by Col. Trimble CM.G., Depyty. Commissioner NO.4 District, who duced Dr. Nml1ls to the meeting.

In the course of an eloquent addrtss the Chief Compaid a high tribute of admiration to the way in whIch work was carried on in NO.4 District. Its bershlp now stood at 4,000, and in ' no district in the was their such unanimity. Continuing, Dr. Ninnis said he had been approached by the military authorities,

AI D.- December, 1908.

and asked whether in the event of national emergency the men of the Ambulance Brigade would be willing and able to take over the charge of all the military hospitals of the country. As a result of enquiries he set on foot, he could to-day put his hand on sufficient men to do all the nursing work of the military hospitals of England, Ireland and the Channel Islands for the regular forces. He regretted they had not men sufficient to do the same for the Territorial forces. He mentioned this as one instance of the service of one of the most typical voluntary organisations in this country.

PRESTWICH.-This division held its first annual whist drive and social on December 2nd at the headquarters, Church-lane, when a most successful evening was spent, every available ticket being sold and I40 persons attending. The officers present were Hon. Surgeon Stephenson and Supt. R. Gibson, of Prestwich, Hon. Surgeon Young, Supt. Crossley, and 1st Nursing Officer Brown, of Whitefield, ar.d Supt. Martin, of the Hulme Division, Manchester.

No. 5 District.

BRADFoRD.- We must congratulate both the Ambulance and Nursing Divisions of this City on the report of their year's work, which has just been received. It has evidently been compiled with great care and proves how thorough is the administration now existing in connection with brigade work in Bradford. Public duty has been carried out on several occasions. Several mem bers are enrolled in the Military Home Hospitals Reservf', and six members who are enrolled in the "I" Brigade Bearer Company attended the annual training at Aldersl at. The fifth annual brigade ball and whist drive, which is held in connection with the various Corps and Divisions of the St. John Am bulance Brigade located in the vicinity of this town, was held at the Drill Hall, Otley-road, on December 8th. The company numbered about 400 and included representatives from the following towns: Bradford, Shipley, Eccleshill, Brownroyd, Midland Railway, Bradford Tramway Drivers, and North Bierley.

HUDDERSFIELD.-The annual meeting of this corps was held on November I9th, at the headquarters, the Lecture Hall, Co-operative Buildings, Princes-street, Chief Surgeon F. Robinson being in the chair, supported by Chief Supt. Coward. The minutes of the last annual meeting having been read and confirmed, Supt. Sec. W. Roper then presented his report on the year's working, which showed there had been a progressive gain in membership. Reference was also made to the number of first aid classes, both for male and female, which had been held. Attention was also drawn to the public duty undertaken by the corps, especially that on the occasion of the King's visit to Leeds, when a number of nursing sisters and men attended.

Following the adoption of the the Chairman called upon Supt. Treasurer G. W. Haigh to read the financial statement, which showed a credit balance of };30 as against about £7 last year. This announcement was receiveq. with great applause by the members present.

Much credit is due to Supt. Treasurer G. W. Haigh for his efforts on behalf of the corps, as it is owing to his having kept a tight rein over the accounts, both for income and expenditure, that the funds are in such a healthy condition

A concert promoted by him in the autumn considerably augmented the funds.

The Chief Supt. (Dr. Coward) in a few well-chosen

December, 19 08 -FIRST

remarks, referred to the assistance he had received from Mr. Haigh, who, lle understood, in addition to his financial duties, had also been Acting Chief Superintendent, and at a time when the corps was in a critical state. He, the speaker, hoped that all members would work for the common benefit of the corps and help to make it the most efficient in NO.5 District.

A hearty vote of thanks was accorded to Mr. Haigh for his services and the meeting closed with a vote of thanks to the Chairman.

ST. IVEs.-At the annual inspection of this Division, which was held last month, there was a good muster, and the members were highly complimented by the inspecting officer, Asst.-Commissioner Laurie, upon their smartness and efficiency. He also expressed himself as being very pleased with the equipment and stores belonging to the Division. At the conclusion of the the members held a " Free and Easy" smoking concert.

WESTHAMPNETT.-There was a bit of "breeze" here at the last meeting of the Rural District Council. The Medical Officer had called attention to the urgent necessity which existed for providing a new ambulance. In the discussion which ensued, on a proposal by the Sanitary Committee that the matter should be postponed, the Rev. W. J. H. Newman, Vicar of East Dean, who strongly opposed the postponement, said "The ambulance came recently to my parish to remove a patient. It was the first time I had seen this marvellous convenience, which looks more like a ' Noah's Ark' on wheels, and I'm told it took about four hours to do the six miles. Inside the only accommodation for the patient was a mattress on the floor. The child lay on this, and the nurse was either engaged the whole time in trying to keep the door shut, to keep the draught out, or trying to keep it open in order to get a little air in. To do this she had to use a little piece of string." Eventually it was decided to fully report on the matter at the next meeting.

In New Zealand, says Tile Lan ce t, medical men have felt lately that the giving of lectures on first aid and am bulance work should be paid either by the local authorities or by the Government. Some discussion has taken place in the newspapers on this point. It has not been suggested that lectures to the general public should be paid for, but whenever police, tramway officials, and so on, have to be instructed some monetary recompense should be made to the medical instructors. There is a considerable measure of justice in this request. Many employers, steamship companies, railways, mines, and the like, require that anyone seeking admission to their services must give evidence of a knowledge of first aid. There would seem to be no just reason that medical men should supply this education free of charge. St. John Am bulance students have no need to fear that their course of lectures this winter will be interfered with by the YVellington Medical Association's action in insisting on fees for all lectures delivered in the future. Arrangements have been made for lecturers to complete the whole of this season's syllabus, a few medical men having given their services on condition that their action is sanctioned by the Association, and have consenled to lecture unconditionally. It is understood that the action of the Association ion regard to fees for ambulance lectures has not met with the unanimous approval of the profession.

National Fire Brigades Union.

The autumn meeting of the Central Council was held at the Holborn Restaurant, on November 26th, when there was a good Lieut.-Colonel Seabroke presided. The mmutes of the last meeting having been read and confirmed, several Committee Reports were submitted and advocated.

C?lonel Seabroke, on behalf of the General Purposes Comnuttee, moved the following :-

" No person shall be entitled to wear the uniform of U nion he be a ,bona fide working member of a Bngade belongmg to the Union and ready for duty, or a of. the Medical or Ambulance Departmant of the Umon, actively performing duties, or subject as hereinafter provided."

In moving the adoption of the proposition Colonel Seabroke explained that the Committee thought that the time had arrived when steps should be taken to prevent the wearing of the uniform of the Union by individuals not entitled to do so.

A great deal of discussion took place on the question. Capt. Henderson, urged that steps should be taken to protect the Fireman's uniform. Capt. Plewis pointed out that the only distinctive feature about the N.F.B. U. uniform was the badge. Capt. Miller supported the recommendation, he was continually coming across men wearing the Brigade uniform, who were, not and never had been firemen. Capt. Clulee was afraid the proposed rule would give offence. If it was insisted that because they did not attend fires, honorary officers should not wear uniform, he was afraid many Brigades would sever their connection with the Union. Eventually it was decided that the rule should not be made retrospective and it was agreed to submit it for adoption at the annual general meeting. Another series of resolutions which raised a somewhat heated discussion were the following :-

(a) When in full dress uniform at reviews and parades only those medals recognised by the S.)vereign or Government of a country, in addilion to the Fire Brigade Long Service Medal shall be worn.

(b) Ribands appertaining to the above medals only to be worn upon undress uniform.

(c) Miniatures of medals and decorations should only be worn upon evening or mess dress.

(d) Souvenir medals and badges, whether mounted or not should only be worn whilst the Congress or occasion lasts and not afterwards.

'(e) Officers only should wear tan r.egulation gloves. Appended to the proposed regulatlOns was a note to the effect that there are no authorised ribands or miniatures of foreign insignias, but on Mr. Charles. Kusel pointing out that the Federations of France, BelgIUm and Italy had recently adopted ribands this was withdrawn:

Capt. Plewis strongly opposed propOSitIOn (a), and resented the suggestion that a firerr:an should .be debarred from wearing the insignias of foretgn FederatIons. Why

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should preference be given to medals awarded by the Government? It was well known that after a war Government medals were given away in a most haphazard fashion. Why then should they be given a preference?

The Chairman urged that it was desirable to have some definite regulation. At the present time some officers appeared in public with their breasts so covered with medals and decorations as to bring upon themselves the ridicule of the public, and this reflected upon the service to which they belonged.

Capt. Horn asked how the resolution would affect the life saving medals granted by the Royal Humane Society, &c. He thought the regulations should insist that all medals before being worn should be submitted for approval.

It was pointed out that this was unworkable, and eventually on the proposition of Capt. Miller, the proposal was referred back with a view to obtaining the opinions of the several District Councils.

The final item on the agenda was the presentation of an address to Dr. Ettles, in recognition of his work on bel:alf of the Ambulance Department of the Union. Unfortunately, the doctor was unable to be ;pre8ent, but in his absence Col. Seabroke explained the object of the presentation. Before Dr. Ettles' time the Ambulance Department was, he said, very far behind what it was when he left it. Putting his shoulder to the wheel, their late Chief Officer reorganised the whole system and also wrote a book on "First Aid for the Fire Service," which was undoubtedly the best book on am bulance. for firemen, and as they knew this book had been adopted as the official text book by the Union. Unfortunately, owing to the many calls upon his professional time, Dr. Ettles had felt compelled to resign and give up the control of the Department. They, therefore, felt that it was only right that, whilst reluctantly accepting his resignation, they should not allow him to go without some mark of appreciation for the valuable services he had rendered. With the permission of the Council, he would make the presentation at the first opportunity.

The address read as follows :-

"The Central Council of the National Fire Brigades Union cannot allow you to sever your connection with them without recording their sense of the high and invalm.ble services you rendered to the Fire Service during the years of your connection with the same. The energy and enthusiasm you threw into the work of the Ambulance Department secured you the affectionate regard not only of those more immediately connected with that Department, but of all the officials as well as the rank and file of the Union. To you was due its reorganisation on its present sound basis and its constant good work in actual service will be abiding monument to your skill and devotion to this branch of the fireman's work. Whilst rejoicing with you in the cause of your leaving our Union, you may rest assured of the enduring regard and affection of those who for so many years had the pleasure and privilege of working with you as a colleague."

Colonel Fox was a visitor at the autumn meeting of the South Eastern District in October last, and gave a most practical and interesting address. We regret that the pressure on space will not permit of our printing it in ex tenso, but It has been. published in pamphlet fO.rm by the l.ocal DIstnct CouncIl, and doubtless copies WIll be obtamable from the District Secretary Captain Hedley Peters, Sittingbourne.

We were glad to note the Colonel's strong remarks about for cleanliness both in person and appltances. I have always been 'banging' at volun-

AID.- Decem ber, 1908.

teer fire brigades," s3.id the Colonel, "on one thing, and that is the question of cleanliness Things are very much altered. In the old days the volunteer firemen especially thought it was a kind of faith that he must be as filthy possible. Unless his body were dirty, and his cap like a sun-bonnet, his tunic buttoned up wrongly, and his belt worn like a kicking strap, he thought he was not a fireman. That is getting altered for the better. I teach the great importance of cleanliness for many reasons. First, a clean man is a self-resp ec ting man, and likely to do his duty in every way. It impresses the public and raises the service in their eyes."

Colonel Fo.x many other "good tips," especially WIth regard to dIsclplme and the promotion of good fellowship between neighbouring brIgades.

EASTERN DISTRICT, N.F.B.U., DEATH LEVY FUND.-

The Hon. Secretary and Treasurer of this Fund reports that as the result of a call made on October 2nd, on behalf of the survivors of the late Fireman P. J. Moyses (New Southgate Fire Brigade) the following amount has been received, ,£25 ISS.

As a result of a call made on October 11th, on behalf of the late Fireman J. Daltrey (Chingford Fire Brigade) the following amount was realised, £,24 I5S.

BRADFORD.-The City Fire Brigade has been examined for the National Fire Brigade Ambulance Badge by District Surgeo n H. Gray Heald, J.P., M.D., complimented the Chief Officer on the very intelligent and smart manner in which tl:e men had passed the tests.

The new motor turbine engine (Dennis Bros.) has been under its fire baptism and conducted itself to the satisfaction of everyone. It is to be named after the Chairman of the Fire and Licensing Committee, Ald. Jas. Freeman.

An interestin g function took place in the Town Hall recently, when Mr. Walter Firth was the recipient of a presentation from the various ambulance workers in the district, this taking the form of a half hunter go ld watch, on the back of which was engraved a St. John Cross with the Lion and Unicorn in the angles, inside was "To Walt"!r Firth, Esq., from 300 ambulance friends, 1908."

Dr. Vaughan Bateson, in asking the Lord Mayor, Ald. J as. Hill, to present the gift, re ferred to Mr. Firth as one who had been well known to the police for a lon g period, in fact, he had been under their observation for years. It was by no means his first appearance before the court, and it was a matter of much satisfaction that th e chief magistrate of the city should deem the matter so serious as to demand that he should personally adjudicate in the case. For years past none of his Majesty's subjects had been able to fall down the Town Hall steps and break their legs or otherwise disport themselves in any way, within the meaning of the Act, without being at once subjected to the kind attentions of Mr. Firth. He was a most hardened and confirmed first aider, and it was quite time he was brought before a court of justice. He had not even confessed when apprehended, and it was desirable that he be dealt with summarially and be given "time" without the option of a fine.

Mr. Firth's reply was a lesson in the history of ambulance work, and a testimony to the fact that everything he has done for that beneficient movement has been a labour of love.

An advertisement in this Journal is the cheapest traveller you can have.

Decem ber, 1908.

Al D.- 95 count towards service medals, and no restriction is placed upon them not to c<?ntmue as members of the brigade.

We are in no way responsible for the opinions expressed, or the statements made, by Corre spondents .-EDITORS.

THE S.J.A.B. AND THE TERRITORIAL FORCES.

SIR, -I have read the varied correspondence in FIRST AID re the Territorials and the Brigade. I am inclined to think the Chief Commissioner was q uite corr ect in drawing the attention of members to the fact that they could not belong to bnth. If you read the Rules of the S.J .A.B. it states, "vVe are a body of men trained in ambulance work, &c., willing to be 1Jlaced at the disjJosal of tize Military, Police and otizer atttllOrities in case of need." That being so, if the Territorial Force was on active duty and required the assistance of the S.J.A. B. for ambulance work, what would be the result if all our best hon. surgeons, officers, and men were in the field? I is in my opinion impossible for us to maintain a dual position.

The letter by an old Volunteer and S.J.A.B. member, in your October issue, brings out a point that will be of interest to many. I have myself ten years effi ci ent service in the Volunteers and Yeomanry as a first aid man. I left the Yeomanry to become a member of the S.J.A.B., liable to be called up for military service. B. O. states we are a suppliment to the Regular Army. I made application for the medal (the Yeomanry medal is ten years service ), but was informed I shou ld have to serve at least two years more and not resign till 1904. I think the Army Council are asking too much when the y want Brigade men and officers to keep filling up their ranks in various Reserve organisations, and then withhold from them the only return, which IS the medal. The B.a., under these circums tances, is an injustice. I must rejoin the Territor ia ls if I wish to get my medal there, and resign the Brigade, which means that the seven years in the Brigade will be forfeited, and I am thus debarred fr om gaining the S.J.A.B. medal. In any cas e we who should be entitled to two decorations can only gain one. I should like the Headquarters to take this matter into consid eration and make some allowance for men with nine or ten years service

I am surprised at some officers of the Brigade making a sugges tion that we detach oursel ves and form local bodies, it shows want of courage. I have had to fight such an organisation from the first day I joined the Brigade. They are without discipline, and have no restraining influence to keep them up to a high state of efficiency. No examinat i? n , no inspe ction, although a number of th em hold first a id certificates Such men, in my opinion, are a disgrace to the Order of St. John. My advice to those officers who think of cutting asu nder is to reconsider their position. I know the disadvantages such organisations are to the advancement of the ambulance movement.- Yours truly,

E.C.I.Y. and S.J.A.B.

[We must confess we do not quite follo\\l the line of argument adopted by our correspondent. In the first place he deprecates men belon gi ng to both bodies, and in another laments the fa c t that he IS not permitted to do SO.-ED. " F.A."J

SIR,-Your letters re the aboye subject in previou.s issues point to great disappointment felt by members of the brigade at B.O. 137 and 139. The greatest disappointment lies in the fact that those who have been members of both the volunteer force and brigade for years, and who are within a year or two of being entitled to the long service medal in the by rejoining the new army forces, are allowed past service to

B.<? 137 Issued St. Jolm's Gate says you must not enrol In the TerntorIals, only on conditions that you sever all connection with the bri gade. In these forces many men have several service badges, and others near attaining time to apply for service medals. But it seems service to the hrigadecounts as nothing at St.J ohn's Gate,and asaJreadypointed out you can give all your services, prOVide all your kit yourself, and yet by B.a. 137 you will be " kicked out" of the brigade,." b<:tg and baggage," if you contmue as a member of the TerntorIal forces. four hon. surgeons and offi cers would take their stand with the men, and say if B.O. 137 is to apply to the men we will not entertain B.a. 139 unless made applicable to the rank and file also, and that either B.O. 137 must apply to all ranks, or B.O. J37 and 139 be cancelled altogether. many of the brigade originally joined theIr diVISIons no restriction was placed upon their joining any other force, and I maintain these men should have the privilege of retaining their membership in the brigade (vide B.a. 137) as old members.

The latest RO. 143 rigidly insists on members who have joined the new army forces severing their connection: with the brIgade, which means that the Chief Commissioner intends to enforce the carrying out of B. O. 137. By this decision It is to be feared that many divisions will cease to belong to the brigade and become local ambular.ce organisations.

I hope the C.C, will recol'lsider his orders and deal fairly with the old members of the brigade and allow them to retain membership in both the brigade and Territorials. New members will not feel the crush ing effect as the old members do.

No explanation can be obtained from the C.C. as to why these orders were issued, and as the brigade is purely voluntary, I think these orders very inopportune, and likel y to mitigate against the smooth working of it.

Apologising for taking up so much of your space.-I remain, yours obediently,

MEMBER OF THE S.J.A.B.

DEAR SIR,-I admire the spirit of the letter signed" AntiMilitarist,'" in your issue of November. But why sign such a nom -d e-p lume?

Personally, I have been somewhat grieved to read the many letters which have appeared in your journal expr essing other sides to the q uestion.

To my mind, experience has proved that a man cannot serve two masters in a thorollgltly efficient manner, and surely it is better to excel in one sphere than to be half-hearted in two!

Putting aside the voluntary character of the S.J.A.B. in all its aspects, I should have liked the original Order No. 137 to have been rigidly adhered to.

As a commanding officer of a unit of the S.J.A.B., I say without fear of contradiction, that whenever members of my corps have, subseqllmtiy to joi711J7l{ us, Joined <l: brass or other band, or even a fire brigade or boys' brIgade, mterest not been the same, or rather, there has been a lack of enthusIasm; and with all respect to a certain class of the populace, if there is no enthusiasm, retrogression not progression, must result.

Now, what I want to impress upon members of the S.J.A.B. is this: "If your inclination is towards the stick to it, and join one of its national If you do thiS, and do it thoroughly, you will not have time to helong to some other optional but national movement. If you have not the inclination, then join the item which you most fancy. I would welcome the day throughout the cOllntry·-ne.ver mind tion grants-when the S.J.A.B. can hold up ItS head With all umis of his Majesty's forces and say we are all of the same family. No better than you, and you .no better than we, but we do reckon to be a distinguished unit of the Forces.

I shall probably bring a ho:net's nest about my head for all this verbosity, as we in Accnngton are only a little :n olehill in the Empire's defence scheme, but I want to say thiS forthe information of your readers, we did our .in South African War, as we hope we do .the same m CIvil life; and at the same time we reckon to conSider ourselves on a par

-FIRST

with local Territorials in all aspects. To my way of thinking, co upled with a lillie ex perien ce, I do think that if each member of the briga de were to perform his full measure of interest in tbe S.J.A.B th ere is not much spare time to belong to some other" unit. "

I t may be of interest to some of your readers to know that we "run" our corps on "military " lines-that is, under strict and proper dis ci pline, that we possess a drill hall second to none in the kin g dom, and that 80 of 100 members (officers and men ) are members of the Military Home Hospitals Reserve. Wbat more can I say to back up my arguments ?

I should not have troubled you with this letter except for a spirit of esprit de corps Tberefore I subscribe my name as,-

Yours truly,

AID.- December, I908.

not feel inclined to give the se self-constituted organisations a g ra tuitous advertisement. As re ga rd s the value of the certifica te issued by tIle L.C.c., a t the time that this body star te d its own amb ul a nce .classes we q ue stIOned the wisdom of s t ep, and we do so stIll. The St. John Ambul a n ce ASSOC IatIOn is and we trust will always rem a in, tIle re cog nised authority for England.-E D. " F. A. "J

The Independent Journal for the Ambulance and Fire Services.

J. OGDEN, Chief Supt. Accrington Corps, S.J .A.B. NO.4 (North Western ) District.

THE AMBULANCE CERTIFICATE.

SIR - With reference to your" scathing remarks " -as one of your' corre s pondents calls them-which appeared in the October issue, I should like to say how thoroughly pleased I was to see the subject of these opposition bodies brought forward

It is quite evident that these bogus corps and brigades are not formed with a view to making first aid more efficient, but rather from a motive of selfish a mbition or spite.

The thing th a t galls me most is what you call disloyalty. I call it piracy. indiv iduals first qualify under the S.J.A.A, then form, or join a body already formed, and oppose the very Order that gave them their qualification. They tell the public they as mu ch St. John as the brigade members, and for proof refer to their certificate. They acheive their objec of retarding the work of the authorised brigade and bring "first aid " into disrepute.

They are a body without a head a nd with no recognised standard of effi c ien cy, no compulsory inspection or annual reex a mination, yet they assume to call their organisation a corps or brigade.

The pity of it all is that the medical faculty should countenance such a farce, in the face of the fac t that there is an ambulance body recogn is ed and supervised by some of, if not, the highest authorities on first aid. It is regrettable a lso that the S.J A.A. should encourage this state of things by allowing these bogus corps the same privileges as are grauted the offi c ially re cog nised br igade corps and divisions.

I venture to say, Sir, that if the Assoc ia tion and the Brigade were more closely allied, the Association working through the Brigade, ma king the Brigade the executive in all am bulance training, and where practicable insisting on all classes being held under the immediate control of the Brigade staff, we should hear less of opposition bod ies.-I am, Sir, yours truly, PRO BONO PUBLICO.

[We think our correspondent's last suggestion is not only unworkable but also undesirable, and would, we should hope, never be countenanced at St. John 's Gate.- ED. "F. A."]

SIR,-Having seen your interesting article in the September issue, and the correspondence relating thereto in your October number, and the remarks you make in reply to your correspondent, Thos. Neale, to my mind, you do not appear to have fully replied to that gentleman's quest ion, as to what bodies you refer to as being non·recognised.

I have myself for some time past been studying" first aid" under the London County Council, fully believ ing that the certificates issued by that body to the students who passed its examinations were fully equal in value to the certificate issued by the St. John Ambulance Association.

I shall be glad to know if this is one of the non-recognised bodies to whi ch you refer.

Thanking you a nticipation,-I am, yours faithfully, INTERESTED.

[In reply to our correspondent, we may say that the London County Council wa" not one of the unrecognised bodies to which allusion was made in our Editorial. We did not, however, name the towns where unrecognised bodies exist, as we did

S. M. (Bishopstone ).-Ma ny thanks for yours and for tIle suggestion which you m a ke. We will g-o into the matter of your proposition a nd see if it is workable We s hall be ha ving another ess ay competition shortly. This we hope will engage tIle attention of a larg e number of our old n :aders, a nd be tIle means of introducing new ones. We are desirous of doin g a great deal to still further interest the supporters of FIRST Am in the coming year, and in order to carry out our intentions we take this opportunity of asking- our re ad ers to co-operat e with us in our efforts to sti ll further increase our circ ulati on, and thereby enable us to enlar ge our pages and to add additional items of interest.

British Fire Prevention Committee.

A SE RIES of fire tests of far-reachin g importance were undertaken by this Committee on December 7th connected with the ex tinctIOn o f petrol fires with th e aid of such simple m ea ns as cloths and sand. Some twenty-four tests were undertaken at th e Committee's Regent's Park Testing Station. Th ere was a large attendance o f Home Office officials as also officers from th e Admira lt y, War Offic e, Lond o n County Council and other public departm e nts, who were rec e ived on behalf of th e British Fire Prevention Committee by Sir J a mes Williams on , c.B. (Member of Council), and Mr. Edwin O. Sachs, F.R.S.Ed (Chairman of the Executive).

Th e tests were under th e dir ection o f Mr. Percy Collins, J.p., F.S.S., a nd a strong sub-committee, including among others, Mr. J. Herbert Dyer and Mr. Folker (VicePresi de nts Nati ona l Fire Brigades Union), Mr. Ellis Marsland District Surv e yor) , Mr. Foulkes (Ins ur a n ce Surveyor).

The tests were und er taken at the instance of the Incorporated Association of London Dyers a nd Cleaners, who were represented by th e ir Chairman, Mr. J. G. Moore, their Vice-C hairman, Mr. H. L. Hall, Mr. W. Eastman, Mr. W. N. Davis and Mr. W. F. Newm an , H on Sec. ; and also by some forty memb e rs of that body.

The tests we re of a highly instructive character, and went to prove the effici e ncy of simple m eans o f ex tin g uishing petrol fire

Extensive arrangements had been m a d e by the Committee to meet accidents, Surgeon-Major Maitland Coffin, F.R.C.P., being in charge of the medical and ambulance arrangements.

An official illustrated Report will be issued by the British Fire Prevention Committee tn due course.

To Our Readers.

As it is the wish and desire of the Proprietors to make this J oumal as instructive and entertaining as possible, correspondents in all parts of the country are asked to give it all the help they can Supe rin te nd ents of Corps and Officers of Divisions of the St. John Am Brigade, Officers of the Royal Army Medical Corps (Terntonals), the Volunteer Ambulance School of Instructi on, and Chief Office rs of Fi re Brigades wi ll , it is hoped, do their best to make it known amongst the members of their respective organi sations, and wi ll also send for publi cation their official news and notices. Suggest tions are invited for Prize Competitions and other matters which will ad vance the inter est of the Journa!.

We particula rl y desi re to ask our correspondents to be brief and the point in any comm unications they may send us for publication.

Corr espondents send ing in photos are urgently requested to state on the back of the same the name of the individual or the Corps or Brigade and give also the name and address of the sender.

We beg to advise our readers that we do not pay for photographs or copy se nt, unless previously agreed upon in writing.

" First Aid" is published on the 20th of the month.

EDITORIAL.

Engli sh Fire Br igades to France and Belgium, and these vis i ts have been returned, representatives from both these having visited this country Upon every occasion, It IS needless to say, no efforts were wanting to render this interchange of courtesies a means to still furth=r strengthen the bonds of friendship, which, since the holding of the Int erna t ional Fire Congress, in London in 1903, has been growing in intensity year by year.

The Franco-British Exhibition too has done much to p r omote friendly feelings not only amongst the people of the two countries most concerned, but also amongst the Colonies which belong either to the British Empire or acknow ledge the lule of France.

A Rev·iew of 1908.

In Canada, also, the celebrations in connection with the founding of Quebec were taken advantage of to pay a meed of homage not only to our own great soldier-the gallant General Wolfe-but to his equally valiant adversary -General Montclam. It is such touching courtesies as these which tend to break down the walls of racial hatred, and smooth away the friction often engendered by the celebration of events, which, while th ey are proof of the success of one country and the gallantry and devotion of its soldiers, should not be celebrated in a manner which would suggest the disgrace in addition to the defeat of an equally gallant and chivalrous foe.

F

OR Sale. - Ambulance Supt. Mess Dress; measure-1 ment, sft. 9 in.; chest, 40 in.; cost £8; will take £4, cash. Also Great Coat, Regulation pattern; cost £5; take £2; a ll nearly new.-Box 45, "F .A." Offices, 46, Cannon-street, London,

and Co., Patent

AT the beginning of the New Year it is our usual practice to pa.ss in revi e w some of th e principal events which h ave occurred in the preceding year. Bo th in Ambulance and Fire Brigade circles many events have occurred which should render the year 1908 a notable one. In conn e ction with th e former organisation mention must be made of the holding of th e first In ternational" First Aid" Congress which was h e ld at Frankfort· on-Maine in the month of June. That th s Conference has been the means of promotin g an extension of th at fraternal fee ling which should exist a mongst a ll members o f life saving corps we have no reason to doubt, indeed ample evidence has been forthcomin g to show that it is so. In connection with this gathering we feel that it is o nly right that we should once more refer to the valuable assistance which was rendered to the British Delegates by the British Consul·General at Frankfort. Not only did Sir Francis Oppenheimer extend generous hospitality to our representatives, but he spared no p ai ns to make their visit a profitable as well as a pleasurable one.

In the sister Service friendly visits hav e been paid by

One very important event of the year was the passing of th e old Volunteer Force, and the creation of a new cit ize n army under the title of the Territorial Army. It is early yet to point with any certainty to either th e success or th e failure of the movement as a whole, but it is, we think, fairly safe to assum'e that the success of the Medical Units is now thoroughly assured That this is largely due to t he whole-hearted support which the medical profession has accorded to the movement cannot be denied, and we trust th at Mr. H a l da n e will see that the unselfish devotion of th e se patriotic citizens IS fully recognised by the prompt issue of the necessary equipment to make the medical branch of our army what it should be-second to none in the world. The men who have taken in hand the working of the re-o rganised Force are keen in their work and in order to as sure success will never spare themselves, and it only requires that the au thoriti es should adopt a like

-FIRST

enthusiasm and we ne e d have no misg ivings about the future.

Turnin g once mor e to civilian ambul a nce work, it is gratifyin g to ag ain pla ce on r e cord th e continued growth of ambulanc e work on o ur railw a ys. This is e sp e cially noticeable on the southern lines. N ow that the men are receivin g encouragement at the hands of their principals, they are taking it up with a keenness and an aptitude that shows how fully they appreciate the value of the instruction give n. The handsom e shield, present e d for annual competition by the Ord e r of St. John, was this year won by a team from th e L. & y , This is the se cond occasion on which a team from this Company has secured the coveted trophy.

In the police force, too, valuable testimon y has been borne by H. M.'s Inspectors, the Chief Magistrates of C ities and Boroughs, and by memb e rs of the Magisterial Bench to the valu e of the s e r vices constantly rendered to the community by ambulance policemen.

In this connection we desire once more to throw out the suggestion that as a further encoura g ement, a National Shield should be presented for competition, amongst the members of th e police force of this coun t ry. Could not the Order of St. John undertake this, on the same lines as th e "National Railway " and the "Dewar " Shields. Such a competition would, we believe, be very popular, and would tend to creat e a keen e r interest on the part of C ity and Borough Coun c ils in the work of the St. John Ambulance Association

In mining circles the extension of ambulance work has been fully maintained, and we are pleased to learn that Kescue Stations have been formed, or are now in course of formation, in several colliery centres. Anoth e r event of interest, to all underground workers esp e cially, was the institution by His M ajesty of a M e dal, to be called th e " Edward M e dal, " to be conferred for conspicuous gallantry in savin g life in connection with disasters incidental to our collieries and quarries.

The St. John Ambulance Brigade continues to make gratifying progress, both in num bers and efficiency. The members have during the past year responded most loyally to the many calls made upon their time. Large num bers, too, have given practical proof of their patriotism by joining either the Home Hospitals R e se rve or the Ro yal Naval Auxiliary Sick B e rth Reserve. The annual competition for the "Dewar" Shield resulted in a win for a team representing NO.3 District, and hailin g from Northampton. The victory was a popular one, for in the previous year's contest this team were only two points behind the one which upon that occasion se c ured premier honours.

We have to mourn the decease of several prominent workers who will be sadly missed. The veteran fire chief

AI D.- January, 1909

Sir Eyre Massey Shaw, after a long and painful illness, passed peacefully away at Folkestone. Another fire chief, to whom the servi c e was much indebted for his ungrudgin g labours on its behalf, Capt. Banbury, has also passed away

The genial and kindly-he a rted Dr. Russell too is still sad ly missed in the county town of Surrey, by am bulance and fire brigade workers alike. London has to mourn tw o men to whom its citi zens are much indebted on account of their persistent efforts on behalf of an up-to-d a t e ambulance service- Dr. Reginald Harrison dnd Mr H. L. Bischoffsheim - who have both passed aw ay before seeing the realisation of the servi c e fur which th e y had striven and fought so hard. We trust, however, th at their labour has not been in vain, and we hope that e re we write the record of another year, London will have a service, like her Fire Brigade, "Nulli Secundus."

Baths and Ambulance Provision at a Belgian Colliery.

ALTHOUGH am bulance provision, and the instruction of th e miner is makin g prog ress in this country in connecti o n with the various colliery districts, it has not, we are inclin e d to think, made that forward progress attained by oth er countries, nota bly Germany and Austr a. Other countries can also show us som e thing worth emulatin g

By the courtesy of our contemporary T he C oll i ery G uard ia n, we have much pleasure in presenting our readers with a plan and a b r ie f acc o unt of th e first b a th and ambulance hou se recently established in the Fief Pit of the Colliery. As will be seen by the plan , the bUlldlOg con tams separate bathrooms for the engineers and deputies, an ambulance room, an ante-room and a n office.

The bathroom for the engineers measures about 20 [t. by 14 ft., half of which is occupied by three cabinets measuring 7 ft. by 8 ft., and s e parated from each other, and th e the rest of the apartm e nt by partitions rising about halfway to the ceiling. E a ch cabinet contains an enamelled iron bath, fitted with taps for hot and cold water and for a .seat and set of hooks are also proVided. In additIOn, the chamber IS also fitted with a lavatory wash-basin and ten wardrobe cupboards.

The bathroom allotted to the deputies is of about the same dimensions as the foregoing, but is partitioned off into six small cabin e ts measuring s t ft. by 3 ft., fitted with a warm shower bath, seat and clothes hooks, each one b eing sheltered off by a short partition. Every cabinet is completely enclosed, and the door fastens inside with a bolt; both door and partition, it should be stated, are of metal. In the centre of the room is a radiator, also a seat and a number of hooks for drying clothes, and twenty wardrobe cupboards of expanded metal are arranged along the opposite wall. The floor is of square tiles, and the walls are lined with gl a ss bricks to a height of over 6 ft.

The water for the baths is drawn from the mine being pumped to a high -level tank outside, whence it' runs through filter presses into two tanks, the larger being fitted with a low-pressure steam jet for heating the water when required. It is also in contemplation to erect forty showerbath cabinets for the use of the ordinary miners.

January, 1909 · -FIRST

The in the ambulance room comprises a bed, an operatmg table, and an en a mell e d iron bath, over which is suspended a kind of m e tallic hammock for low ering a pat ie nt in and out of the ba th in such a way a s t o avoid any chance of increa in g his injuri e s. Th e re is a lso a full and complete c a se of surg ical instrum e nts, st e rili ze r a microscope, and oil and e le ctric h e at e rs. In the room another bed is provid e d, a nd h e re also is the stor e containing the stock of medicines and antiseptics, &c. There is also kept here an oxygen c ylinder a nd applianc es for use is cases of electrocution or asphyxia.

A memorandum relatin g to th e fitting up of ambul a nce rooms has been issued by th e Join t Assur a nc e Associ a tion of the collieries in th e Mons district to all the affiliat e d collieries. In this the providin g o f a sm a ll ante-room for simple first aid cas es is r e commend e d. Th e sam e to b e equipp e d with washing appli a nc es, e nam e ll e d ba sins for Bureal.l

AI D.- 99

Mistakes Often Made by Pirst Aiders. *

(CoJ1tinuedjrom page 86)

AR TER IA L H lEMO RRHAGE, A GREAT d e al is said by some candidat es as to the directi o n of t h e of flood, bu t it is sa id in such a way a s to lead the. examlOer to that th e y b e lieve it goes e ither str a ig ht up or s tra ight dow n . L e t the ex amin er know that you realise that it do es not C:l m e out like th a t but that it comes out of th e cut in an upw a rd or dir e ction the artery o r ve in is cut ri ght throu gh , a nd there is n o thlO g b e tw ee n the bl ood vessel and th e skin t o divert it. As an illustr a tIOn o f this, ge t a ga rd en h ose a nd put a

A- Bath.

C -Ambu lance

D -Litter.

E-Docto rs' wash basins, h. and c.

F-Rack for antiseptics.

G-Instrument cupboard.

H - I nstrument table.

I -Sterilise r.

K-Radiator.

L - \ Vi nch fo r lowe ri ng injured

M -Grid.

N -\Yater heater for washing patients.

O-Beds

P-Medicine cupboards.

Q-Five carboids with formalin water, sublimale water, weak boric acid, boiled water, and filtered water.

R-Oxygen cylinder.

Salle de secours-Ambulance room.

Annexe-Ante·room Bu reau-Office, Slerfput-Grid.

Banc-Heat

Po rtemanteaux-Clothes hooks.

Bai ns pour porions - Deputies' baths

La\'abo-\Yash basin

Armoires - Wardrobe cupboar ds.

Baignoire - Bath.

Douche - Shower bath.

antiseptics, a two or thr e e·gall o n fla sk of b oric a c id, va rious sorts of b a nda ge s for first a id, two se t s o f List e r's fo r use in cases of s e rious h re mmorh age , &c. Th e la rge r room, which should b e r es er ved for m e dic a l a id, should b e fitted with a camp b e d, a t a bl e ( 32 in. hi gh, 6 ft lon g, a nd 30 in. wide ) with veg e tabl e-fibr e cushi o n s, which should be covered with some washable fa bric; it should also hav e four small tables, a wa ll -shelf c a pable of holdin g two-g allon bottles of boil e d wat e r (1 per ce nt. of sublimat e, S per ce nt. formalin, and 40 p e r c e nt. of boric a c id r e s pec tive l y), a cupboard should also b e provid e d in which m ay b e st o r e d the requisite medicines, b a nd a g e s, lint, absorb e nt co tt o n wool, surgical instruments, washing appli a nces, &c., and a sterilising apparatus.

An advertisement in this Journal is the cheapest traveller you can have.

g iml e t in it, a nd th e water within will co me o ut in a j e t stra ig ht fr o m th e p ip e but I d e fy yo u or an yo ne else to sa y which way it is c o min g

Now thi s q uesti o n is a nswer e d In a wh ich leads one to beli e ve th a t yo u think yo u ca n way. It IS com in g, If th a t is yo ur i d ea you mI ght easIly m istake art e ri a l bleedin g for ve nous and vice

Again, m e n do not a pp ea r t o rea lIs e the of the position o f th e limb. Th e y h a ve a ca se o f bl eedm g from the palm o f th e hand t o d eal with, and as o ft e n a s n o t it nev e r o ccurs to th e m to put th e h and up, th e m o re mon pr a ct ic e is t o all o w it t o h a ng d o wn g Iv e n a case of bl eedin g from th e sole o f th e fo ot, b ut It IS a very ra re thing fo r th e e xam i ner, wh e n go in g ro und , t o find the

A Lec tur e a iv en to the M embers of the S E. & C. Railw ay Am bula nce a t A shfurd.

foot raised. Perhaps the patient is propped up and resting in a comfortable position, but his foot is hanging down. Pupils do not appear to think, or they would readily realise that it is more difficult for blood to flow upwards than downwards.

Another big mistake made is that 'when arresting arterial hremorrhage sufficient pressure is not applied. I remember upon one occasion when I was a house surgeon, a patient was brought in by two men, one a mem ber of the police force and the other a brigade ambulance man; they had applied any amount or bandages, but to all appearances the poor fellow was bleeding to death. I at once cut the bandages away, and much to the surprise of the patient's friends the bleeding stopped of itself. A pad had been placed over the artery, alongsIde which a vein-as is often the caseis running; the vein being soft, a little pressure was sufficient to prevent the return of blood to the heart, but the same pressure was not sufficient to prevent the flow from the heart along the artery, and so the blood was compelled to force its way out through the wound.

One of the officials at St. John's Gate once told me that a certain examiner (I believe he has examined in this neighbourhood) stated that he had never yet found a man that he could not "spin" on such an apparently simple matter as bleeding from the nose. One of the omissions in the text book is, that you are not told that when a person is bleeding from the nose you should impress upon them the urgency of refraining from breathing through that organ-they should breathe through the mouth; instead of which the patient is either allowed to go on talking or the mouth is kept closed, and consequently the bleeding still goes on.

Another mistake first aiders often make, because the book is not very explicit, is in connection with p'Jtting the feet in hot water for bleeding from the nose. Now just picture the man, his fe e t in boiling water and his nose bleeding freely, and it is likely to continue to do so, for the simple reason that the steam is rising and the patient naturally inhales the steam, and "vhat is more calculated to promote and encourage bleeding than this steam? Of course the directions in the book should lay it down that you should place a cover over the vessel and the patient's knees in such a way as to prevent the steam rising. It is very evident that but few men realise the importance of this or they would mention it when answering the exammer.

To arrest bleeding from the armpit is generally done incorrectly, the pad is e ither too small or more often than not the arm is not bandaged in the way that the book tells you it should be done. Whether the candidates think that the examiner will take a great deal for granted I do not know, but you may take it from me that no examiner would pass a man for the ambulance certificate who makes gross and careless errors with regard to the arrest of hremorrhage. Just remember that unless you have effectually controlled the hremorrhage your bandages may be applied as neatly as possible, but if not efficient it is probably good- bye to your patient.

N ow with regard to arresting hremorrhage from the subclavian artery Of, for the matter of that, any artery. Men are too apt to take it for granted that they know the exact positions of all the arteries, but when it comes to actual practice they do not know; when applying digital pressure they put the thumb well below the clavicle instead of above it. You should practise finding the pulse, as well as the different points suggested, for the purpose of digital compression. A large number of men rarely find the cor.

AI D.- January, 19 0 9.

rect point. Another thing, always, where possible, let your palient sit or lie down. Al competitions I have seen a littl e chap about five fool nothing sLanding by the side of a giant about 6 ft. 2 in. trying to find the subclavian artery.

The position of the femoral artery is rarely correctly pointed out. Don't fail to remember that if you want to arrest h c:e morrhage in connection with an injury involving the femoral artery, you must be .lbsolutely sure of its position. Any undue delay may involve the death of your patient. The book tells you that the course of this artery may be indicated by a line drawn from the centre of the groin to the back part of the inner side of the knee. A tourniquet, with pad, must be on the right spot if it is to be of any use at all.

VENOUS BLEEDING.

Generally speaking, venous bleeding will stop as soon as you elevate the limb and remove garters and other constrictions. Women are very prone to varicose veins. In dealing with a burst varicose vein, the garters are removed and the leg bandaged in the manner in which you have been instructed. All very good so far as it goes, but to elevate the limb takes but an instant, and should be done as soon as the patient is lying down; when elevation of the limb is remembered it is ge nerally left till after the bandaging, and even then it is not sufficiently high. What are the different kinds of hremorrhage? That is a simple question, is it not? When I saw it in the examition papers I thought what a rotten thing to put in, but as far as my experience go es in a':tual examinations not half the ca ndidates answer it correctly. One will say internal hc:emorrhage and external hcemorrhage. Some may say arterial and venous, but very few say hccmorrhage may be internal and external. and from veins, arteries or capillaries.

FAINTING.

You say to a candidate here is a person who has fainted. But should you ask the cause you are not told that one of the commonest causes of fainting, especially amongst men, is loss of blood, yet I do not suppose that one man out of twenty, if asked to treat a case of fainting, if there is h c:emo rrhage, would say, "I should stop h c:e morrhage." It is true, likewise, that not one man in twenty appears to realise that when a patient faints the feet should be raised above the level of the head. I was lecturing to a class once, and being desirous of impressing this precaution upon them, I told them that the reason that pavements were made on the slant was that when a person fainted his head might be placed at rest in the gutter and his feet upon the pavement. vVhen replying to an in future, don't forget to 3ay, amongst other ltems of your treatment, that you would raise the feet. Ladies as a rule take smelling salts with them when visitieg crowded places, but it is very rare for any· candidate to mention smelling salts in connection with the treatment of fainting. BURNS.

If my leg or arm was burned, I should like to have that burned limb placed in a basin of warm water, to which had been added a little common baking soda, just a dessert spoonful to a basin of water. This makes the injury feel easier and less painful. It is given you in your text book, but you never give it to me.

Another thing I am rarely told is, that if there are blisters it is not advisable to prick them, I think some men must skip this paragraph in the text because some of them, when they have to deal with a real burn,

January, 19 0 9. -FIRST

often do prick the blisters-so much the worse for their patients. Perhaps the caution is not in their books, but it's in my copy.

Again, in the book you are told that should a woman's dress catch fire, and another proseed to her assistance, the rescuer should take a rug and envelop the patient within it. Now, as an examiner, I often say to candidates, supposing you were wearing a long overcoat right down to yo u feet, and a woman's dress caught fire, what would you do ? Very few men say they would take a rug and hold it in fron t of them. What would be the obvious result of neglecting such a precaution? Why the man's coat would catch fire and the would-be rescuer would himself get burnt. The

AID. - 101

Christmas Distribution to the Poor Children of Blackpool.

S URELY the Blackpool police and nursing sisters of St. John were never associated together in a better cause than when engaged in the beneficent \York of clothing the little ones of the poor resident in this large L a ncashire seaside resort, who, but for their kind ly forethought, would have to face the rigours of our winter in such attire as could be provided out of th e pittance available for such necessities after the weekly had been depleted in the payment of rent, food, &c. In times gone by many a harsh and un-

We

Editor

our contemporary, Tile Great TT 'e stern Ra/ize'ay JlIagas/m, for the loan of the above, illustrating ambulance work on the G.W.R. A supposed railway accident had taken place at Callecary, near Bristol, and a large party of ambulance men were dispatched to the spot and prompt assistance. The affair, which was super\7ised by Drs. Price, Gee, and Page, was both mterestll1g and instructive, and was witnessed by a large number of Railway officials.

dilemma is sometimes avoided by the candidate saying he would take off his overcoat and use it to smother the flames. Some men, again, endeavour to impress the examiner with their resourcefulness by informing him that they \"ould always first soak the rug in water. Would they? And in the meantime while doing so the poor unfortunate sufferer would be getting more severely burned. By all means put water on afterwards, because the clothes will probably smoulder for some time, if not completely extinguished, and, of course, they might burst into flames again.

(To be conthllfed.)

When corresponding with Advertisers please mention "First Aid."

kind thing has been said about the parents of these children, but it is rarely heard now-but, then, are the children to blame in any case? At a ny rate those who so generously help the fund do not think so. It wou.ld be wise if those carping critics, who so often take to these acts of benevolence, would recall those touchmg lmes of the American poet Russell Lowell" For whom the heart of man shuts out, The heart of God tak es in."

Tee distribution this year commenced on January 5th and was continued until January 9th, by which time 14,29 8 aa rments had been distributed, and upwards of 2,000 clothed.

are indebted to the

of

It will readily be recognised that the gathering together of a couple of thousand of the poorest Blackpool's children is no light task, for in each case the clrcu.mstances of the family are inquired into, as is necessary. If all. deserving cases are to have attentlOn that no ImpositIOn should be possible ; and to this end the members of police force ma.ke a thorough investigation, and no genume case of real necessity has been passed over, for Blackpool s " bobbies" performed their work with kindly tact and sympathy. Indeed their enquiries were .heartlly and every information tendered. TheIr reports 10 cases are sad reading, details of unemployment, short season work, broken work, and of widows who plucklly striving to maintain the home, deprived of the assistance of the loving help meet. Aye, it is a sad recordJn most cases of heartrending poverty borne sdently and patIently.

The presentation took place at the PolIce StatIOn, and those whose privilege it has not been to see one of the " Chief's" distributions have no conception of the pathetic beauty of the scene. One of our local pressmen has described it as a "Palace of dear delights," and, surely no phrase is more apt or more appropriate, for the are admitted in batches-often In rags or shabby attIre. Immediately on entering each one was regaled a of warm" Oxo " and a piece of bread. Once outsIde thIS, they next proceed to the fitting room were they are soon "in the hands of the police," assisted by surely the kindest of "specials," the ladi es of the Blackpool Nursing Division. How the" kiddies" enjo y kicking-off their" old clo'" and how proud they are after they have donned their brand new garments! It is no light task undertaken by the "kindly fairies," for the youngsters bubblin g over with excitement can scarcely be co ntrolled during the operation of fitting. Once completed, "What a transformation scene!" But, if the children's joy is great, what shall b e said of the gladness which must fill the hearts of those engaged in "this labour of love? " Sure ly, it was a sight to bring tears to the eyes of any but the most hardenedthe transformation of the ill-clad to the well-dressed. And now just a word as to the "principals" in this happy gathering. To Blackpool's " Chief" must be ascribed premier honours as it was due to his kindly forethought that the fund came into being. "The Chief" has a large and kindly heart, and as one sees him bending low over a little one, while he struggles with a refractory button on the jacket he is fitting, one realises his love for the little ones. The youngsters in their turn stare in amazement, as they watch this big man, with his kind eyes glistening with pity, as he plays the part of "children's outfitter." This fund is very near to Mr. Derham's heart, and he is justly proud of the fact that it is known as "The Chief's Poor Children's Clothing Fund."

To Mrs. Orme, the kindly, gracious lady who is at the head of Blackpool's Nursing Division, must be given much of the credit for the continued success of the movement. She and her band of lady workers meet weekly in the ambulance room at the Police Station, and make most of the garments, which are given to the girls. As one watched Mrs. Orme and her nursing sisters engaged in their self-imposed task and noted their patience with the little ones, one realised full well the great American poet's words:

"To show in what a woman true may be

They have not taken sympathy from thee ..

Who hast that gift of patient kindness,

The instinctive wisdom of a woman s heart."

These words are most appropriate to Mrs. Orme and her band of willing helpers. We would that space allowed of our mentioning all the kindly men and women

who have added one more touch of gladness to the lives of Blackpool's little ones.

P o is onous Gas e s .

THE Factory Department of the Home Office has recently issued a special memorandum dealing with the use of water gas, suction gas, and other gases in factories. The memorandum contains information of a most important character regarding carbonic monoxide poisoning, and recommends precautionary measures. Accompanying the memorandum is a notice for circulation amongst manufacturers setting forth directions for first aid.

Attention is callp,d by the Department to the fact that in recent years there has been a great extension of the manufacture and use of water gas, and other gases of a similar nature, for many industrial purposes. The particular danger connected with all these gases is that of poisoning by carbonic oxide, which is also a constituent of ordinary coal gas, but while the proportion in coal gas varies from 4 to 12 per cent., in carburetted water gas it reaches 12 per cent., and in uncarburetted water gas 50 per cent.

The Annual Reports of the Factory Department during the last eight years show a steadily increasing number of reported cases of poisoning by carbonic oxide on manufacturing premises. Thus in five years, 1899 to 1903, there are references to 51 cases, of which 17 proved fatal ; in the two years 1904-5 to 57 cases, of which proved fatal ; and in the two years 1906-7 to 136 cases, of which 14 proved fatal. It may be assumed, we think, that the decrease in the number of fatal cases was due to a better knowledge of the methods of resuscitation.

It is recommended that instructions with regard to starting, stopping, charging with coal, raking, cleaning and repairing should be posted in the engine-house, and certain structural conditions of general application are set out as pre cautionary measures, with a view to the avoidance of unnecessary risk. It is also advised that the inspection of valves and connections should be made at stated intervals by a competent person, in order to make sure that no leakage is taking place. The provision of ropes is also suggested for rescue purposes, and that notices should be prominently exhibited about in the works explaining the deadly nature of the gas, the symptoms of poisoning, and the means to be adopted in the case of rescue and the application of the necessary "first aid." The workmen should be practised in rescue drill and the use of the appliances. Instruction should be given under the per sonal supervision of a medical man in artificial respiration and the administration of oxygen, and individuals should be warned of the danger of exposing a "gased" person to cold.

Dealing with the symptoms of carbonic oxide poisoning, the memorandum says it begins with a throbbing of the blood vessels of the head, giddiness, palpitation of the heart, and weakness of the limbs. These after any exertion become greatly aggravated, owing to their insiduous onset and the cumulative effect of the gas. The weakness of the limbs may come on without attracting notice, so that the person affected is unable to make good his escape Headache, anccmia, and defective nutrition may result from the long continued breathing of the gas in an amount too small to produce immediate effects Such symptoms may be caused by defective gas fittings in workrooms. The appropriate remedies for poisoning by carbonic oxide are fresh air, artificial respiration, administration of oxygen, and the application of warmth. These should be promptly resorted to, and hence the importance of competent" first aid" being at all times available.

Superintendent Hayman 's Farewell Dinner to His Divi s ion.

THE men of the No. 30 (East London) Division, Metropolitan Corps, always muster well whether it is for drill or duty, but there was a feeling somewhat akin to sadness which marked their muster on the 19th December last, for the occasion upon which they met was to pay farewell honours to their late popular commanding officer, who had recently tendered his resignation 10 the Chief Commissioner after a service ex tending over a period of 20 years.

It was whilst resident in Northampton that Mr. Hayman first took up ambulance work. In the December of

AI D.-

annual Conference, and was on of lhe Committee which inaugurated the first one, which was held in Northampton, and he subsequently attended every other until they were allowed to lapse a few years back. It is interesting to note that Mr. Hayman while at Northampton was a member of tbe Reception Committee of tbe first Conference, and attended in a like capacity in 1896, when the gathering was held in Lnndon.

An enthusiast in everything appertaining to am bulance work, Mr. Hayman has made a study of it in other countries than our own, and letters from his pen have from time to time appeared in our columns on the ambulance systems of the United States, Berlin, &c. It is not out of place to mention here that much of the credit of starting ambulance work in Cape Colony is due to Mr. Hayman, who formerl y resided there. In 1891 an account appeared in the Cape Arg us of the death of a man from severe arterial h:Emorrhage, with the Doctor's remarks that his lifR would have been saved llad there been anyone present with a knowledge of "first aid." Mr. Hayman promptly wrote off to a friend of his-a clergyman-in Cape Town, who, backed up by the then Governor, Sir Henry Lock, who was himself a member of the Order, started classes, and thus laid the foundation of the work in that important colony.

But to return to the occurrences of the 19th Dec. last, from which we have somewhat strayed in tracing our friend's ambulance career.

The dinner which was given by the retiring Superintendent took place at the Coburn Hotel, Endsleigh-gardens, W.c., upon which he was supported by a large number of old friends both of London and Northampton. Amongst others were ex-Chief Supt. Hilton, ex-Chief Supt. Trenery, District Supt.-Sec. Pontin, District Supt. of Stores Piers, Supt. F. Hayman, Hon. Surgeon Blok the Rev. M. Adler, &c. The hotel management had prepared a most appetising menu, to which, in the wellknown phrase, ample justice was done, and the cloth having been cleared a short toast list was gone through. The Loyal toasts were most feelingly put from the chair and loyally greeted by all of those present. The Rev Adler proposed the toast of "The Brigade," to wh ich Supt. Pontin suitably responded.

the year 1888 he inaugura ted a first aid class in connection with the Randalls Factory, of which he was at that time the head. Realising the value of the work and desiring to set the men a good example, Mr. Hayman himself joined the class and obtained his certificate. Subsequently a division of the Northampton Corps of the Brigade was formed and Mr. Hayman was appointed the first superintendent. This was in December 1888, so that our friend has now been an officer for twenty years. In 1891 he was appointed Chief Supp.rintendent of the Northampton Corps, a position he retained until he was transferred to London, when he joined the Metropolitan Corps with the rank of Superintendent.

In 1897, Supt. Hayman founded the East London Division and was appointed its first superintendent, a position which he is now relinquishing to the great regret of the members of the division, who feel that in losing the services of their popular commander, they are parting with one who has by geniality and strict impartiality endeared himself to one and all. That the services so loyally rendered by Supt. Hayman have not been lost sight of by the authorities is amply borne out by the fact that he is an Honorary Serving Brother of the Order, and has received the Queen Victoria Silver Medal for Long Service He is in p ossession a lso of the King's Coronation Medal.

M r. Hayman is a firm believer in the value of the

" The Host" (Supt. Hayman) was given 10 appropriate terms by Hon. Surgeon Blok, and in responding, Supt. Hayman expressed his regret at having felt compelled to relinquish the reins of power; nothing but continued ill health would have induced the step, for he was as keenly interested in the work as ever and he should always maintain an interest in it, and especially in the progress of the East London Division.

Other toasts were the "East London Division" and "The Guests," both admirably put and loyally honoured.

During the evening the Rev M. Adler, on behalf of the members of the East London Division, presented to Mr. Hayman a life-size portrait of In making the the reverend gentleman paid a well d.eserved tribute to the long and honourable record whIch the recipient held in connection with. the cause, and especially commented. upon WIth t.he East London Division, which was 1l1debted to hIm for Its present high state of efficiency. In handing the picture over Mr. Adler expressed the hope that the original might long be spared to an interest in the work although not now on the actIve hst. .,

A capital musical programme under the dIre ctIOn ?t Sergt. Selinger, been and was taken part 10 by the Misses GertIe Bernste1l1 and Dolly Mullord, Mrs. S. Skudder and Messrs. L. Solomon, S. Rae an] Ben Hart.

Brevities.

WE learn that the several units of the St. John Am bulance Brigade who did duty at the various Ambulance Stations at the Franco-British Exhibition, treated 3,360 cases of injury or sudd en illness, 230I of these occurred amongst employes engaged on the various staffs employed in or about the "White City," the other 1,059 cases were visitors attending the Exhibition.

UNTIL recently the whole of New Zealand has constituted a district of the Brigade, but it has been decided by the Commissioner for Special Services to constitute Canterbury and the West Coast a sub-district, with a full district staff. The only appointment made so far is that of Mr. H. H. Ffitch, who has been appointed District Supt. Sec., headquarters at Christchurch. A district surgeon IS also to be appointed, also a district superintendent of stores at Westport, and this officer will control the West Coast portion of the sub-district; and a district superintendent-treasurer at Timaru, who will control South Canterbury matters. The St. John Ambulance Brigade in Canterbury and the West Coast has only been in existence for twelve months, and is the first in the Dominion to be formed.

ADVICES have been received from Malta reporting to the Central Executive Committee of the St. John Ambulance Ass')ciation that, immediately on receipt of the news of the recent disastrous earthquake, the medical staff of the local Centre, together with a number of certificated pupils volunteered their services to assist in succouring the injured at both Messina and Reggio. The medical officers in command were Col. MacNeece, P.M.O., and Major Crawford, R.A.M.C., and they were accompanied by Capt. Anderson, Dr. S. Ellne Gresh, and Dr. R. Samut, and left Malta at once for Sicily, being followed within a day or two by 30 mem bers of the Association who had just completed a further course of instruction in Home Nursing, the party being under the command of Lieut. W. R. Gatt, Royal Malta Artillery, and Prof. N. Tagliferro, 1.S.0., the Honorary Secretaries of the Centre. Lieut.General H. F. Grant, C.B Governor and Commander-inChief, states that it is greatly to the credit of the Centre that within a few hours it was enabled to dispatch doctors, men, tents, medecines, food, blankets, &c., to the scene of the earthquake

THE French Red Cross Society, with its usual prom ptitude, also des patched a corps of Red Cross Nurses to Reggio and Messina. The first contingent left Paris on New Year's Day with Viscomte d'Harcourt and the Comte de Nantois. They took with them a supply of beds, tents, blankets and medical supplies. A second detachment left on January 4th.

MR. BURDOE-GR UN DY, in presenting ambulance cer -

A I D.·- January, 1909.

" tificates at Old Trafford to forty mem bers of the Manchester Division of the Lancashire County Constabulary, said: " He would like to tell the youngsters amongst them that they did not value their services by the number of convictions they obtained, but they valued those who did noble work. Some young men among them might think that if they got a lot of convictions it would ensure them promotion, but he desired to impress upon them that it would not. What they as magistrates wanted was evidence on which they could judge the cases that were presented to them-· the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, told plainly and straightforwardly. Let them say all about a person that \Vas in his favour. If there was any redeeming feature about him or anything that would help his wife and children, let them say it."

January, 1909. -FIRST

Nineteen Years' Service.

CHIl:£F SUPERI TENDENT HILT ON

As reported in our last issue, Chief Supt. Hilton, the late popular Chief of the \Vellingborough Corps, was presented by the officers and members of the corps with a handsome silver salver to mark the esteem and regard in which they held him, and their regret at losing his guiding hand. We have much pleasure in presenting our readers with a portrait of the retired officer.

Mr. Hilton joined the first am bulance class that was held in Wellingborough, and the corps of the S.J.A.B.

SOUTH EASTRRN t- CHATHAill RAILWAY CENTRE.-

We are informed that the annual competitions for the Challenge Cups and Prizes offered by the Directors for competition amongst ambulance teams on this railway will be held as follows :Group 4, at Folkestone, on March 8th and 9 th Group 3, at Hastings, on March loth and tho Group 2, at Paddock Wood, on March 12th and 13 th Group I, at Victoria, on March 16th.

BARROW-IN-F uR NES S.-The annual tea and dance in connection with Vickers, Sons & Maxim's Ambulance Corps took place on Decem ber ) 8th and was presided over by Mr. A. J. Campbell-Shipyard Manager-who was accompanied by Mrs. Campbell. It was somewhat disappointing to the members that owing to the serious illness of Mrs. Bradley, Supt. and Mrs. Bradley were unable to be present- to preside over the evenings proceedings. Ever since the inauguration of the cops both Mr. and Mrs. Bradley have always evinced the keenest interest in its we lfare, and the officers had decided therefore to show their appreciation of their services by presenting them with a token of goodwill. After mature consideration the wives of the officers decided to send to Mrs. Bradley a handsome bouquet of flowers, bearing a card on which was inscribed, "Presented to Mrs. Bradley by the wives of the officers of V. S. & M. Ambulance Corps on the occasion of their annual ball, December I908."

For Supt. Bradley the officers had a surprise, and on the morning following the ball they met in the office of the Superintendent, and Capt. McLarby asked Mr. Bradley to accept a gold badge of the corps, bearing the following inscription :-" Presented to Supt. Wm. Bradley as a token of esteem by the Officers of the Corps, I 908."

In handing over the gift, Mr. McLarby assured Supt. Bradley how sincerely they appreciated all he had done for the Ambulance Cause in connection with the works.

Mr. Bradley, who was quite taken by surprise, acknowledged the gift in suitable terms, he alluded to the kindly feelings held towards himself which had prompted the gift and assured them that in the future- as in the past-he should at all times do all he could for the advancement of first aid.

A hearty vote of thanks was accorded to Lieut. Campbell who had carried out all the arrangements.

was started, shortly after he became Ist Officer. In 18 96 Mr. Hilton took the command of the corps, and during the last 12 years it has maintained an excellent record. One of the most notable incidents during that period was, perhaps, the terrible railway accident which occurred at Wellingborough just 10 years ago. At that time Mr. Hilton, with other officers and men were quickly on the spot, and they rendered wonderful help to the injured. From the Central Executive of the Association and the Chief Commissioner they received a vote of appreciation for the satisfactory manner in which they did their duty. Although Mr. Hilton is no longer chief superintendent he still holds that position on the reserve list. He will also retain the position of hon. secretary to the Wellingborough Centre of the S.J.A.A.

Her Royal Highness Princess Louise will visit Rhondda at the end of June to present the "Sir Charles Warren" Shield and prizes in connection with this competition.

On going to press we learn, and have to report with profound regret, the death of Lord Amherst of Hackney, which occurred on January 16th after a few hours Illn ess. Lord Amherst was a Knight of Justic e of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem in England.

The competition for deciding the teams to represent the Company in the Int er-Railway Competition will be held at the Crystal Palace on Wednesday, March 24th. This last mentioned day will also be set apart for the annual meeting of the Centre, which will be followed by a Dinner and Concert, and will be held at the Crystal Palace at 6.30 p. m. The catering will be carried out by the wellknown firm of Messrs. Lyons and Co., and the Centre Committee look with confidence for a record attendance. The concert hall at the Crystal Palace, in which the dinner will be held, will accommodate 1,200 qui te comfortably, so th a t there should be ample room for all desiring to attend. Tickets are now in the hands of the district secretaries, and early application should be made for the the same. A first-class musical entertainment will follow the dinner.

One of the special certificates issued by the Centre has been awarded to George Bailey, booking clerk, of Shepherd's Well Station, in recognition of gallantry shown by hIm in saving the life of a lady passenger at Shepherd's Well on May 2nd last. The passenger in question would most assuredly have been cut to pieces had it not been for clerk Bailey's promptitude in jumping off the platform in front of an approaching train at imminent risk to himself, and we are pleased to know that the Directors have also recognised Bailey's conduct.

A serious accident happened to a porter named Norris, employed at the Redhill Stati on, on January 11th. Norris had lighted the signals in the direction of St. Anne's Bridge, and it was supposed th at as he was re turning to the station he was knocked down by a train of empty coaches. He was terribly injured, his left arm being entirely crushed. Prompt attention was by the railway ambulance corps, and the injured man was conveyed to the porter s room, where he was further attended to by Dr. Bramet. Later on he was conveyed to the Redhill Hospital, whe:-e it was found necessary to amputate the limb. He is progressing satisfactorily, thanks to first aid.

SOUTHAIIIPTON, S.J.A.A.-This Centre has offered a trophy-silver competition. squads of Nursing SIsters of DIVISIOns of the Bngade 10 Hants and the Isl e of Wight. The conditio ns will be similar to those oC the "Dewar" Shield, and one squad (selected locally) will at Southampton in May n ext. The individual prizes WIll prob1bly be teaspoons oj special pattern ; there will be no entrance fee.

The Motor Ambulance.

IN dealing with this important subject our contemporary, Motor Traction, refers to the necessity for arriving at some sta.ndardisation for the stretchers. Recommendation is made that stretchers should be mounted on wheels and every facility offered for transferring the patient into the am bulance. " Now, it seems not unreasonable," says our contemporary, "to suggest that these stretchers might be standardised, and made equally applica?le for street or ambulance use, before the construction of lllotor ambulances bas progressed too far to permit of such a course being adopted. The same pattern of stretcher might then be used in the streets, and in many cases much valuable time might be saved, and the patient could be comfortably settled on the stretcher by the time the am bulance arrived. Those on the ambulance would then only have to leave one of their stretchers in exchange for the one that accommodated the patient." We would here like to point out for the information of our contemporary that the St. John Ambulance Association has been working on these lines for years past. All the stretchers issued from St. John's Gate are interchangeable and will fit either the two-wheeled" Ashford" lit ter or one of the Association ambulance wagons or omnibuses, and furthermore can be used also in an ordinary second -and on some lines-third-class compartments.

To give a case in point, some years ago at a meeting at which the extension of invalid ambulance service at St. John's Gate was advocated, Sir John Furley mentioned the memoval of a patient from Putney to Queenstown (Ireland). The attendant with the twowheeled hand litter, "The Ashford," attended at the house of the patient in Putney, the stretcher was carriect tu the bedside and the patient was placed up on it and well covered up; he was then carried downstairs and the stretcher again placed on the under carriage and conveyed to the railway station, here it was again unshipped and carried into a second-class compartment and rested on the seats, the undercarriage being placed in the guard's brake. On arrival at Waterloo the patient was met by one of the Association's ambulance omnibuses, and the stretcher having been removed from the railway carriage, was placed in the omnibus and driven across London to Euston. On arrival here, the patient still on the stretcher, was once more placed in a second-class compartment en route for Holyhead. On arrival, the patient was carried on board the steamer, and still reclining on the stretcher-upon which he was placed at Putneyhe was placed in a deck cabin. At North Wall the patient was again placed in the train and resumed his journey to Queenstown, at which place resource was had to a small omnibus hired from a local jobmaster. This was also capable of taking the stretcher.

We have somewhat extended this little narrative but it is our ?esire t? make it to our motoring fri'ends that the Idea of mterchangeablhty of stretcher from litter to has always been recognised by the Association, whIch may be regarded as the authority-as far as civil am bulances go-jar this country.

It will be seen that in the journey we have referred to, the patie.nt once placed on hand stretcher at Putney was not aga111 moved from off it until his arrival at his

We right in saying that the are engaged 111 slmliar experiences almost every day 111 the week, and it might be weIr for makers of motor ambulances before proceeding to tender to ask the

AI D.- January, 19 0 9.

advice of the officials at the Gate. We believe that this would be readily accorded.

Resuming our remarks upon ambulance construction, we believe it will be of interest to our readers if we give a few suggestions and criticisms culled from a speech made by Mr. H. Thomson Lyon, the Chairman of the Ambulance Committee of the Metropolitan Asylums Board.

"There is probably no branch of carriage building," said the speaker," which has made so little advance of late years as the construction of am bulances. The reason is not far to seek. The demand for such carriages is both small and fluctuating, so that it has not proved remunerative to many manufacturers to specialise in this work. The fact that most am bulances are ordered by Public Boards also militates against improvement, as a common method of purchasing is to obtain a description or specification from some other Board and then invite tenders thereto, it is not therefore a matter of surprise that makers have received but small encouragement to introduce new designs. Several axioms have long been laid down and unquestioningly accepted concerning am bulance construction, but recent experiments by the Metropolitan Asylums Board have shown them to be quite fallacious. One of the most common was that an ambulance required to be built exceedingly low from the ground, and such devices as the employment of cranked axles and placing the bed on the floor of the carriage were adopted so as to facilitate the introduction of the stretcher"

This is a point upon which we are in complete accord with Mr. Lyon. There was never a more ridiculous idea, and we thought it was exploded years since until we happened to come upon a newly-built vehicle the other day which possessed all these objectionable characteristics.

A second point, says Mr. Lyon, is the use of obscured glass for the windows. This not only renders the vehicle much more noticeable, but has a depressing effect on the patient, while it has been known in some cases to produce actual nausea on the part of the nurses, as they cannot apparently adapt themselves to the motion of the carriage, if they are unable to see external objects. Clear glass is therefore recommended as far as possible, and in the case of non-infectious cases the provision of adjustable blinds or curtains will ensure the necessary privacy.

Referring to the motor ambulances in the service of the Metropolitan Asylums Board, we understand that they have one in use supplied in 1905 by Messrs. James & Browne, Ltd., of Hammersmith. The body is constructed to accommodate one bed for an adult, and will also take an extra bed for a child. It is capable of being converted into a small omnibus, and it will then convey eight passengers seated. The wheels are shod 875 mm. by lOS mm. Michelin pneumatic tyres, with non-skids on the back pair. Prior to its delivery it was sent out on trial, and the doctors appointed to accompany it, reported on it most favourably. The speed, says the report, was much greater than that of the electrically-driven vehicle (which was also tested), or a horse-drawn ambulance. When turning corners, starting, and slowing down, there was a complete absence of the jerk so noticeable in the case of a horsedrawn vehicle. We need hardly say that this is a point of the utmost importance, as all of our readers who have had to do with the conveyance of nervous patients, will readily agree.

The Chief Constable of Swansea reports most favourably on the running of the vehicle supplied to that County Borough by the well-known firm of carriage builders, Messrs. Wilson & Stockall, of Bury, Lancs. The vehicle carries four stretchers, two on either side, with ample space

January, 1909. -FIRST

between them. It is well ventilated at the sides, at the top of the doors, at the back, and in the roof. It is heated by. an X-ray radiator in connection with the engine, and can be on or off as desired. It is lighted inSIde .by electnClty, and a portable electric hand lamp is In case of breakdown candles are also supplied. T?ere IS als? an lavatory basin (as used in raIlway carnages) whIch can be supplied with hot and cold w.ater, ?y. the and to the basin by plP.es. InSIde It IS fitted ";'lth a first al.d cabinet containing splmts, bandages, &c. [he body IS enamelled white while the wheels and chassis are a rich vermilion' on centre,Panels are the Arms of the Borough.

S111ce the was acquired, which was in February last, we learn that It has travelled over 100 miles and has 148 The cost of petrol w?rks out at about 1 2-d. per allie. For comfort, easy tr:welllOg and

AID.-

10 7

can a vehicle free from these objections we belleve there IS a great future in connection with motor am bulance traction.

FIRE

speed th.e Chief Constable says there is no comparison between It and the horse-drawn vehicle.

Lieut.-Colonel Barnes, General Secretary of the St. Andrew.'s Am bulance Association, referring to the work of th.e suppli.ed to that and working in the CIty 0: Glasgow, IS the opmIOn that its advantages over the vehIcle has been principally in reaard to long dIstance removals. He is of opinion that a tllighter type, together with a shorter wheelbase anel narrower be more suitable for the purposes of the Association: y.rlth this vehicle, he thinks, that for city work handlOess and decreased cost of maintenance alight reasonably be expected.

We ourselves believe that unless the manufacturers can vehicles on a smaller scale so that they can be more eas!lymanaged when negotiating the narrow streets and alleys ,,:b.lCh are so much in evidence in all our large towns and CItIes they will never be generally adopted. For the firm

In courSe of his appeal for donations and annual snbscnptIOns towards the motor ambulance for Cardiff Mr. the St. John Ambu.lance Hon. says,. If) ou t:ould only realIse how much this car IS I feel sure you would at once contribute towards ItS purchase maintenance, for it will certainly be the of allevlatlOg much unnecessary suffering and savlOg of. valuable lives. When a man is badly lOJured and It IS found necessary to send him to one of the Hospitals in the the usual way is to carry him on a to the Ralhvay Station, whence he is taken to the town where the Hospital is situated. He then has to be conveyed from the Railway Station to the Hospital in a cab. If you would only stand fur one short hour at almost BRIGADE. (Se e page I I I).

any time of the day at tbe accident entrance to the Cardiff Infirmary and see the terrible sufferings of the patients when they are moved, I feel certain you wotIld do everything to help us to obtain the required amount.

The annual meeting of the South-Eastern district of the National Fire Brigades Union was held at Tonbridge on January 12th. The fifteenth annual report and balancesheet presented by the district hon. secretary (c. O. Hedley Peters) showed that the district was in a very satisfactory condition and a sound financial position had been attained, a balance of £32 9s. 9d. being carried forward. At the conclusion of the meeting l1r. Edwin O. Sachs gave an interesting lecture on " Fire-Preventing Materials."

WHEN CORRESPONDING WITH ADVER· TISERS PLEASE MENTION .• FIRST AlD."

MESSRS. ROWNTREE'S

ST.JOHN AMBUlI\NCt.. __

No. I District (Metropolitan Corps.)

NO.2 (ST. JOHN'S GATE) NURSING DIVISION.-Once aaain the hearts of some hundreds of little ones, as weJl as grown ups, were gladdened by the generosity self-sacrifice of the Sisters of the St. John's Gate N ursmg Division, when upwards of 700 garments, mainly the result of the past year's work, were distributed to those whose good fortune it was to be the selected reci pients.

The week had been bitterly cold, and no provision f0r this seemed to have been made in the scanty clothing of the poor mites brought to be outfitted, and it was a pathetic sight, as the writer can testify, to see the little pinched forms made snug and cosy by the kindly sisters, who seemed to find so much pleasure in the act.

A most agreeable and pleasant surprise was experienced by the receipt of a large bale of clothing, most kindly sent by Supt. and Mrs. Morphett, of Settle, Yorkshire, whose sympathy had been awakened by reading in FIRST Am the account of a former distribution, and the grateful and cordial thanks of the Division are hereby offered them.

Toys, cakes, sweets, and oranges were also given to each child, and it was quite evident that such abundance was never before possesssd.

The distribution took place on Monday, Dec. 2ISt last, at St. John's Gate, and occupied the whole evening from 6 o'clock. The long queue gathered much earlier, and the special policemen detailed were found quite necessary to keep order and to protect the crowd from itself.

To ensure the most deserving receiving the gifts, tickets were given to the Rev. and Mrs. Wood for distribution through the parish nurse, and these tickets were most keenly sought.

The presence of Lady Furley, Lady Watson and others was greatly appreciated, and this evidence of kind encouragement will, without doubt, bear good fruit in the year to come. Rarely, we think, has charity been more practically poured out than amongst these poor uncomplaining little ones, who had not even thanks to offer in return, but it was a joy to the providers to see the brightening of the little eyes that rarely have occasion for such exercise

To the Sisters we would say persevere in the good work so long maintained, and take for encouragement the reference made to little children by the Master, " Forasmuch as ye have done it unto the least of these, my brethren, ye have done it unto me."

TOYNBEE HALL DIVISION.-After 17 years zealous and faithful duty Supt. Kimber has, owing to the pressure of private business, felt compelled to tender his resignation to the Deputy-Commissioner. It is needless to say that the resignation of Supt. Kimber has betn received with general regret, not only in his own Division, among [he members of which he was deservedly popular, but also amongst his comrades throughout the Metropolitan Corps generally. Joining the King Edward Institute Divisionwhich afterwards became the Toynbee Hall Division-as a

AI D.- January, 19 0 9.

private he successively passed through all grades until, on the resignation of Mr. Winney in 1897, he was appointed superintendent. During the time that he bas been in command the Division has maintained the high position it had attained not only in first aid work but in drill also.

First Officer H. Langley Jones has been promoted to the rank of superintendent in succession to Mr. Kimber, and Second Officer J. A. S. Coleman succee ds to the position vacated by Supt. Langley Jones. Under these two gentlemen we feel sure that the Division will maintain all its old traditions.

lLFORD.-Tbis division held a successful social evening at the Grosvenor Hall on Dec. 9th. The arrangements were carried out by a committee, with Mr. J. F. O. Rymer as secretary, and left nothing to be desired. A programme, consisting of vocal and instrumental mUSIC, mterspersed with dancing, engaged the attention of the large company present, and the final item came all too soon.

A very pleasing interlude in the programme was the presentation of the "Robert James Magnus" Challenge Cup.

In a few well chosen words Hon. Surgeon King Houchin introduced Supt. Olley, who had kindly attended to make the presentation, and who in doing so referred to the origin of the Cup, which had been presented to the division for annual competition by their superintendent in memory of his late father, a gentlemal". who was deservedly loved by all who knew him, and that handsome trophy was a fitting tri bute to the memory of a loyal supporter of the ambulance movement. In handing the Cup to Sergt. Matthews, Supt. Olley said he was sure that the best man had won, and he would venture to express the hope that he might win it again next year, but hr: would have to work very hard, as the competition had keen interest, and there were several very smart men m training anxious to wrest his laurels from him.

An inlaid Sheraton mahogany clock was also presented to Sergt. who acknowledgt:d the gift with a few appropriate remarks.

Musical honours were accorded, concludmg WIth the "ambulance whisper," which well nigh raised the

To Private Aldridge, second in the a handsome silver rose bowl was presented, and m handmg it over to the recipient, Supt. Olley referred to the fact that owing to Sergt. Matthews not being eligible to compete for the" Sleath Gent" Cup, awarded to the best a.ll round man in the Metropolitan Corps, Private w,as selected to represent the division, and succeeded m obtaming fifth place, a position which was very creditable

At the conclusion of the evening's entertamment "God Save the King" was rendered, and the guests departed one and all thoroughly pleased with the evening's entertainment.

No. 2 District.

SANDOWN (ISLE OF WIGHT).- This division has acquired further equipment, by the acquisition of a new Ashford Litter. Some time ago a serious accident in the Broadway; a gentleman while driving home m a dog-cart was thrown out and seriously injured. The Sandown Division was promptly in attendance, and having rendered first aid, conveyed the gentleman by road to the hospital, a distance of three miles. A lady who witnessed the accident was so impressed with the prompt attendance and the skilful way in which the case was treated, that the following day she waited upon the secre-

January, 190 9. -FIRST

tary, Mr. W. New, and by what means they conveyed the sufferer t<:> the hospItal. Mr. New rea d ily gave the necessary partIculars, expressing the bope that the necessity for wheeled transport had now been fullY demonstrated.. The lady endorsed this view and kindly'took the matter ID hand, canvassed the town, and obtained the necessary funds for providing the litter. The Town authorities have been approached, and have promised to build a stati?n, the plans for which have already been prepared. It IS und erstood also that a scheme has been formulated for the provision of further equipment for the division.

It is deeply regretted that the respected hon. surgeon has compelled, <:>n account of ill-health, to resign his appomtment after hIS long connection with the division. We are, however, pleased to learn that Dr. Drury Lowe has a.ccepted the app.ointmp.nt, and is at the present tlme engaged ID mstructlDg a class of recruits to fill the

AI D.- 10 9

The division entered a team for the "Decies" Cup and place, a record which they hope to beal ID .the COt11ll1g year. The divis10n has now an honorary SUl geo?, and as the result of a course of lectures on first aid, 2.1 ladles have passed out of 23 who had sat for examinat1On. Dr. Pye Oliver, the examiner, saying it was the best women's he had yet examined in the county. Their membershIp now totalled 24, of which 1 were fully qualified with nursing certificates.

Mr. Wainwright afterwards addressed a few encouragIDg words to members, and then Mrs. Wainwright presented the certlficates and medallions gained during the recent classes.

Mr. Banks, in proposing a vote of thanks to Mr. and Mrs. spoke the good work which they were always engaged ID, assuring them that deep down in the hearts of Ashfordians their names and their work lived and in the sacred memories associated with Christmas,

vacancies occasioned by many of the old members having left the district.

It is the hope of the members, by steady progress and Increased efficiency, to make the division the best and smartest in the island, both ambulance and fire service beso k eenly taken up, and so loyally supported, as is eVIdenced by the fact that Sandown was the first town in the island to possess a Steam fire engine, and having succeeded in winning high honours in the comDetitions held in connection with the camp of the N.F.B. U.; held at Scarborough last year.

WILLESnOROUGH. - A capital concert in connection with the Nursing Division was given in the New Town on December 17th, Mr. H. S. Wainwright presldmg.

Miss Homewood, the lady secretary, presented the annual report, which was of a most gratIfying character.

knowledge of having: done what they could to help others would increase their own happiness at this joyous season.

The vote was carried with rounds of "Kentish Fire." Thanks were also accorded to the artistes, and tribute was paid to the work of Miss Homewood and other members of the division who were devoting some of their leisure to assist in the instruction of members of the adult school in first aid and nursing.

No. 6 District.

H ULL.-The Eastern Division of this corps, of which Supt. E. F. Krause is the popular and enthusiastic officer in command, has just acquired new headquarters. The premises were formerly known as Holborn Hall, and they have been taken on lease.

The ball was formally opened by NIr. T. R. Fercus, M.P., who was accompanied by Mrs. Fercus, on January

A VIEW FROl\ I THE FRONT OF ROWNTREE'S FIRE STATION. (See page I).

-FIRST

9th Hon. Surgeon Appleton presided, and was supported by a large number of .localladies an.d gentlemen.

In opening the proceedmgs, the remarked that the opening of that hall put the finlshmg touch t? the efforts they had so pp.rsistently to secure smtable headquarters.

Mr. T. R. Fercus, M.P., congratulated the division on acquiring so commodious a building in .central a p.art. Referring to the good work that t?e dlvlslOn wa.s he said he did not think it was possIble to over-estImate Its value. There was another organisation in which he was greatly interested, and which would, he believed, supplement their ranks in the days to come. He referred to the Boys' Life-Saving Brigade. A large number of boys were already being trained, through its agency, i.n aid, fire drill swimming, so that they may save bfe 111 case of necessIty. The intention was that when these boys got older they should be urged to continue the work by joining the St. John Ambulance Brigade.

Col. Pudsey, Ald. Scott and Ex-Chief Supt. Hopper also addressed the meeting, the latter in proposiug a vote of thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Fercus for their referred also in appreciative terms of the untiring efforts made by Supt. Krause to secure the hall.

On behalf of the division Mrs. Fercus presented Supt. Krause with a handsome pair of bronzes in acknowledgment of the valuable services he had rendered.

In the course of his reply, after thanking the donors, Supt. Krause spoke upon ambulance matters in Hull and urged that ambulance work should be better amongst the police. He also pleaded for increased financial support for the movement locally, so that they might thoroughly equip the co;ps.

In the evening a capital concert was given, and was much appreciated by a large and enthusiastic audience.

STOKE.- The fifth annual dinner of the P. E. T. Division of the North Staffs. Corps was held at Sutherland Chambers, Stoke, on Wednesday, December 23fd, Mr. W. Thom, General Manager, of the P .E. T. Company, presided.

The toast of the evening, "The St. John Ambulance Brigade," was given by Councillor C. Hackney. In referring to the early days of the movement he remembered how it was ridiculed by people who said it was impossible to train working men to render efficient first aid, but it was now recognised on all sides that these same working men were doing a most humane and noble work. Apart, however, from its humane side, the habits of discipline inculcated by the Brigade were most commendable.

In responding to the toast, Supt. Hatch claimed that the ambulance movement was one of the finest organisations 111 the world. The great aim of the ambulance man was to save life and relieve pain and suffering. When he first took up ambulance work in the district the company had only five men they could call really efficient ambulance men. In the first year that they entered for the North Staffs. Cup he could only find one team to go out into the field, to-day they could find ten teams and then have a few over. He hoped more men of the sompany would join the division, everything was made easy to do so. Alluding to the bugle band, Supt. Hatch said it was their ambition to have the band second to none.

Other toasts, including the " lvlusical Officers" followed, and Dr. List, who replied to the latter toast, expressed the pleasure that it gave him to instruct the members. He was heartily in sympathy with the commendable way in which they strove to be efficient.

National Pire Brigades Union.

BOURNEMOUTH.-Dr. Vernon, of Boscombe, has recently given a course of lectures in accordance with the syllabus of the Ambulance Department of the Union to the Bournemouth Fire Brigade, at the Central Station. At the conclusion of the course Dr. Bottemley conducted the examination. Capt. Lane courteously allowed the members of the Christchurch Fire Brigade to attend. Nineteen candidates in all passed the examination.

EASTERN DISTRICT.-A meeting in connection with this district will be held at the Stag Hotel, Buckhurst Hill, Essex, on Saturday, January 30th, at 3.30 p.m., when the following business will be discussed :-Annual report of the am bulance department; the death levy fund; the trict; the balance-sheet; the tournament committee's report of their visit to Shoeburyness re district competitions for 1909; teams to represent the district in national contests; general business. The new rules in connection with the district death levy fund came into force on January 1st of this year.

SOUTH MIDLAND DISTRICT.- The Annual Report for 19 08 just to hand is of a most satisfactory character. There is an increase in the number of brigades enrolled, and but four are in arrears with their subscriptions. We are glad to note also that a keen interest is still taken in the annual drill meeting-we are inclined to think that "drill rr.eeting" is perhaps a better term than tournament or competition. The last year's gathering was held in a large meadow at Maidenhead, when there were 129 entries, the largest number on record. It is to be regretted, however, that owing to counter attractions there was at the finish no surplus available for that very E.xcellent institution, the Widows' and Orphans' Fund.

Generous tribute is borne to the loss sustained by the district owing to the decease of Captain Banbury, of Woodstock, and Captain Gales, of Uxbridge. Both were typical members of the fire service, energetic, courageous, and kind-hearted, "and their help and comradeship," says the Report, "will be long held in affectionate remembrance."

The financial condition of the district is sound, there being a balan:-:e in hand of £10 17S. 3d.-an increase of over £5 more than last year.

Altogether we congratulate the executive on the very satisfactory condition of the district. To Mr. Tabor, of Reading, who is the energetic hon. secretary, the result of the year's working must be specially gratifying, as we know he puts a lot of energy into his work in connection with it, and the result is shown by the annual report.

January, J 9 0 9 -FIRST

A Wen Equipped Pire and Ambulance Brigade.

THE Rowntree Fire Brigade consists of eighteen men, who live in houses adjacent tc the fire station, in electrical communication; seven of this number are permanent and fully paid men. The auxiliaries receive retaining allowances of £6 lOS. each per annum.

The fire station is a detached building of two floors, and occupies a site of 4S ft. by 28 ft. The ground-floor is occupied by the engine honse, which provides space for two horsed machines, one 4so-gallon steamer and the other 6S ft. horse escape and water tower, fitted with suspended harness. Double opening doors are fitted front and rear, giving access to the Haxby Main-road and to the works, which cover 10 acres. The brigadE also protects the Model Village, which is situated a mile away fom the chief station.

AI D.- II

possibility of doing so leaving the hydrants open. Sections of can be shut down for repair, extenslOns, &c SIX ll1ch mains from the waterworks are lai? down, to which hydrants are attached, enabling the bngade to connect steamers direct to main' also underground tanks are placed near all heavy risks, )such' as timber stores, saw mIlls, box-making mills, and the like.

A CORNER IN THE

Above the engine house is a recreation room, with a full-size billiard table and other games, workshop and store rooms. The establishment is protected by the MayOatway fire alarms, of which there are 700 points. On receipt of an automatic call the first turn-out (which is a s0rt of flying squad) proceed to the main indicator, at which is stationed a hose -cart containing all the necessary appliances to attack an outbreak; they see noted on the indicator the department or block, and can get a jet on the job in quick time. The men on station duty (two) immediately upon hearing the full coele -ring on fire station gong, switch out the night staffs, and are then ready to proceed to the outbreak or turn out with steamer and escape should it be necessary.

A very complete system of hydrant mains is fitted along the corridors and outside underground, but no hydrants are fitted inside a building. Everything is arranged so that if a brigade has to retire, there is no

The steamer boiler is always kept heated; the electric call bells are tested each evening at 7 p. m., the result of the test being telephoned back to the duty man. Bells and telephones are tested on Sunday mornings at 9 a.m. The chiet officer is in entire control, being held responsible by the dIrectors for the fire protective arrangements. He has also charge of the ambulance division-27 men. The division meets for practice on the first Monday in the month. Each man before being enrolled as a member must be in possession of a second year certificate. aid ambulance boxes are placed throughout the works, and RECREATION ROOM.

an ambulance carriage is kept in the fire station, which is the headquarters of the ."

The chief officer, Capta1l1 Laurence, receIved hIS tra1l1ing under Chief Officers Tozer and Savage, in the Manchester City Fire Brigade, in which he served seven years He was presented by the Lord Mayor and Watch Committee of that city with an illuminated address for assisting in the rescue of several lives whilst serving on ClOut Station" duty, and was appointed from Manchester to organise and equip the ROlVntree Brigade.

BIRMIN GHAJ\l CORPS.-The Commissioner has approved of the following W. E. Allard to be Supt. -Treasurer vice J. H. Rogers, reSIgned Dec., 19 08 NO.3 Division. J. B. I. l\I.R.C.S., to Surgeon vice G. M. Miller, reSIgned, No. 6 DlvlSlOn. F. S. Bolton to be First Officer.

WHEN CORRERPONDING WITH ADVER· TISERS PLEASE MENTION "FIRsr AID."

-<S4J>

We a?'e in no way responsible jor the opinions exp1'essea, or tlt e statements made, by Cornspondents.-EDITORS.

FIRST AIDER'S MISTAKES.

SIR,--I was much charmed by Dr. MUIr s paper on "Mistakes Often Made by First Aiders," in FIRST AID for December. It is one to be well pondered over by all Ambulance men and women. As well as probably saving them from mist:akes in examinations and competitions, it ought not to fail in being helpful in real work. I am glad to see it is to be continued.

As a veteran (alas, now on the shelf!) I was more than delighted to meet myoId friend" The Umbrella," which was so touchingly returned to its owner by the House Surgeon! I knew that umbrella well twenty-five years ago, having lost of him fo: many yea:s it was quite refreshing to meet agam.-I am, Sir, Yours faIthfully, A RETIRED NURSING OFFICER.

OPEN A:\1BULANCE COMPETITIONS.

SIR,-As a new reader of your excellent and valuable paper, 1 desire to ask a few questions, being a seeker after informatIOn rather than one who gives it.

1\11 and work in general to which YOll give appertam to fire brigade and ambulance corps and station work. My point is this : You never state whether these competitions are open to any competitor.

The study and practice of first aid in this district is more like a of pbysic than the pleasurable study of valuable mformatlOn to be put to practical use if required.

I, one of team, on whose bebalf I write, hold that competItIve work IS the best way to increase the interest in tbis good work, interest which it is to be hoped may never flag. Should you, therefore, know of any competitions which are ope.n to all ambulance men, I should be grateful if you would notIfy the same through the medium of your valuable paper.

Thankll1g you in anticipation,-I am, yours respectfully, EXPECTATION. of our readers may k.now of some open competItIon for whIch OUf correspnndent mIght enter his team. We at all times pleased to insert particulars of any competItIOns, &c.-Ed. "F. A. "J

THE S.J.A.B. AND TERRITORIAL FORCES.

SIR,-It is the general opinion amongst the of the S.J.A.B., that. there been an order issued, new Jom.mg. the Brigade ( if already serv111g 111 a branch of hIS MajestIes Forces ) instead of the order now very little trouble would have resulted.

Now, SIr? let me take the older members of the Brigade back to the tIme of .Boer War; previous to which period few Corps or DIVISIons were efficient, very few had full unIform, very had more than one or two stretchers, etc., by way of equIpment, and moreover knew next to nothing about the Infantry or R.A.M.C. manuals; at the present time one can scarcely open :'l paper without seeing some excellent of the annual 1l1spections being held all o ver the country.

what. <;tbout. this remarkable change?

Well, .Slr,. I, mamtai11 that It IS oW111g to many members of the p Istnct s Staffs a ttached to one or other of the AUXIlIary Forces outSIde the S.J.A. B.; secondly, that a large

A I D.- Jan u ary, 19° 9.

number of Corps and Divisions have officers, sergeants, and corporals \\'h.o are, or have been, attached to local Volunteers, and now theIr reward IS to be the dirty kick out.

Chief Supt. ca nnot be serious when he says no (;>ne, If a membel: of S.J.A.!3., can serve any other cause effiCIently \\That wdl the subject of your Portrait Gallery in your last. Issue, say to such a statement, and what will the Grand Pnor and all the other famous persons attached to the Order think of it ? If Chief Supt. Ogden has observed carefully he must be a ware of the fact that some persons can be efficient and of more use to a dozen different institutions they may be to, that?- s.ome people if devoting the whole of their tIme to one. Abdltles, exactly!

Again, says, they in Accrington "run" theIr corps on mIlItary lmes"! That cannot possibly be true or we sh.ould never find a!1 officer of that corps discussing the pl:lbllc press an order Issued by his superiors-even when agreemg WIth such order.

I ?orry to read the latter part of his letter, as we ( No.4 Dlstnct ) at least, have had enough of his ( I don't want to, but nev.er miss an opportunity ) style of bragging. Let me remmd hIm that there are others who did their corner as well as some of them more so, when we take into conSIderatIon the difference in population and the number of membe:s some of the Corps and Divisions had at that time.

Bemg one of those who helped in one of the corners but not being desirous of proclaimin5 it from the housetops, I 'sign myself.- Yours truly, " LANCA SHIRE LAD. "

HASTINGS.-At the annual meeting of the ambulance and nursing divisions Hon. Surgeon Locke made an earnest appeal for further financial support, and alluded to the good work which was being done in connection with the movement in Hastings; many of the mtmbers had the Home Hospitals Reserve. In seven years the dIVISIon had grown from comparatively nothing into a strong organisation. Referring to the need of head-

Dr. Locke said in the Brassey Institute they were pushed about. Sometimes they were with mummIes, and on occasions with birds that once had fcathers on them. Their quarters were" cribbed, cabin ned and confined," but they lived in hopes of one day possessing permanent headquarters vested In the head office in London.

The business portion of the meeting was followed by a when Dr. Locke graphIcally described a series of slides lent by the head office.

Aid s t o Memory for "Firs t Aid " Students.

By

e: Th.e improvement !s \'ery marked, both in text and illustrat ion the subst itutIOn

To Our Readers.

As it is the wish and desire of the Proprietors to make this Journal as instructive and entertaining as possible, correspondents in all parts of the country are asked to give it all the help they can.

Superintendents of Corps and Officers of Divisions of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, Officers of the Royal Army Medical Corps (Territorials), the Volunteer Ambulance School of Instruction, and Chief Officers of Fire Brigades will, it is hoped, do their best to make it known amongst the members of their respective organisations, and will also send for publication their official news and notices Suggest tions are invited for Prize Competitions and other matters which will advance the interest of the Journal.

We particularly desire to ask our correspondents to be brief and to the point in any communications they may send us for publication.

Correspondents sending in photos are urgently requested to state on the back of the same the name of the individual or the Corps or Brigade and give also the name and address of the sender.

We beg to advise our readers that we do not pay for photographs or copy sent, unless previously agreed upon in writing.

" F ir s Aid " is publi s hed o n the 20th of the month.

EDITORIAL.

Why not a " T y ler Memorial" Ambulance Shield?

THE t errible tragedy at Tottenham which resulted in the ca r eer of a promising yo u ng constable being premat ur ely cut short, has once more drawn attention to the many sided qualities of o ur admirable Police Fo r ce. P.e.

Tyler met his death in the faithful discha rge o f h is d ut y, b u h is conduct is only typical of the membe rs of the Br i tish Po ice Service. The columns of our d ai ly Pres s constan t ly chro n icle some act of heroism d splayed by po liceme n , either in resc u ing life from the perils of fire o r water, or in the stopping of runaway horses. We h ave a fai r k n owle d ge of the police in many countr ies , but w e d o n ot thi n k in one n stance ca n they co m par e wit h the m a ny s id ed q u ali ti e s o f o ur English "Robert." I n s om e Co n ti n e nt al co un t r ies, an d eve n in t h e m u c h va u nted land o f l iberty " across th e sil ve r streak" the rep resentatives o f a w a nd o rd e r a r e sometimes mo r e of a terror t o t he law abi din g citize n ha n t o m ember s o f the criminal classes. No t so h e re. Th e p o li ceman is recogn ised a s one, who, at a ll tim e s in cases o f di ffi cult y an d d a n ger may be re li ed u pon t o carr y o ut h e: duti e s o f his office honourably and effi-

ciently, and in a manner which has earned for his class the respect and esteem of his fellow citizens.

The British policeman, too, has inde,=d on more than one occasion shown how tender -i n the case of women and children - is the heart which beats beneath his blue tunic. One day he may be found relieving out of his own pocket the urgent necessities of the starving family, whose natural guardian-or, in some cases, unnatural guardians-he has been called upon, in the txercise of his duty, to apprehend; on another, we see him as in the case of the Blackpool police-as reported in our last month's issue-arranging and carrying out a fund for the purpose of clothing the children of the necessitous poor residing in that large Lancashire seaside resort. But all of this by way of introduction to the subject of our editorial this month. As our readers know we have on more than one occasion expressed the desire, that with a view to still further encourage ambulance work amongst the members of our Police Force, a National Competition for an Ambulance Trophy should be inaugurated and carried out on lines similar to those which govern the competition held in connection with the National Railway Shield. We are keenly interested in this idea, for while admitting that it is most essential that everything possible should be done to foster and encourage the study of first aid on our various railways-knowing that, as a class, railway men are constantly called upon to treat accidents of a more or less serious nature, we cannot shut our eyes to the fact that in our large towns, and even in our more rural parts, in case of an accident, the policeman is almost invarably the first man on the scene. This view being accepted, surely any movement which had as its aim the encouragement of the police not only to acquire a knowledge of first aid, but by regular and systematic practice to perfect themselves in all its branch'::!s, should receive the support of those who are brought into official contac t with members of the Force. Hitherto our appeal, addre ssed to t he authorities, for a National Trophy, has n ot me t with that response which we think it merits, and we now venture to throw out a suggestion to the members of he British Police Force as a body, urging them to p r ovide such a trophy themselves. The cost upon each individual policeman holding the Ambulance

II4 -FIRST

qualification would not be great, and the formation of a National tribute to the memory of a brave comrade who lost his life in the discharge: of his duty, would serve as a lasting testimony to the value of the Force of which he was so conspicious an example.

The connection of P. C. Tyler's name with the Shield, too, would be singularly appropriate, for it was only but a short time before his untimely death that he was especially complimented for saving the life of a would be suicide by the prompt administration of an emetic.

Doubtless there are many members of the Maoisterial Bench who, if approached, would be only too willing to identify themselves with such a fund if it received a sympathetic response from the members of the Police Force itself.

There are many keen and enthusiastic am bulance workers in all ranks of the Force, and we appeal to them to carefully consider our suggestion and see if it is not possible to inaugurate what would be a lasting memorial to the memory of a brave man and a comrade.

First Aid Essay Competition.

IN order to further stimulate and maintain the interest of our railway readers we think a competition dealing with a series of cases which they might possibly be called upon to treat in such time of emergency will prove not merely of interest, hut also in writing up this subject would prove of material benefit to them in their course of study. Furthermore', as all the railway disasters of recent years have proved that where a brigade exists in the nearest town to the spot, it has invriably been requested to attend and render assistance to the injured, therefore this subject should prove of interest to our other readers.

For the first and second best papers in the following tests we offer two complete" First Aid" Cases, value 2 IS. and I6s. respectively :-

A railway collision has taken place at a country junction seven miles from a town and away from any immediate medical help. Information has been received at the town station where you are on duty that there are several killed and many severely injured. The guard of one train has been pinned beneath the telescoped van, which is on fire and he is unconscious a driver has been severely scalded and his arm broken at the elbow.

One man crushed beneath some wreckage has a severe scalI? w.ound and five lower ribs broken on right side feeble. A man who was sitting with hIS walking stIck between hiS knees was jerked forward on the impact, and his stick breaking, the lower portion has penetrated his abdomen several inches just above the naval.

A .woman is said to have been severely hurt and is and complaining of pain in her head, and keeps tossing herself about and shouting there is no sign of any wound or bruise to be seen. Another woman from the same compartment is laid semiconscious, with a pale

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face, weak pulse and weak sighing respiration. There is no sign of any wounds or fractures. One man has a bruise on the right side of the head and the pupil on that side is dilated and larger than the opposite. arm and leg are more relaxed than those of hiS right. He is unconscious pulse strong, 50 per minute.

Another woman has been severely damaged in the back and is conscious but cannot .stand or move her legs; she states that she has no feeling below her hips. A guard has had his arm torn off and lost a great deal of blood from the axillary artery, which is still bleeding; he has fainted previously. A compound fracture with hremorrhage has befallen another case affecting the right femur.

Give your preparations for and treatment of the above cases, in brief language, from the moment of receiving [he information, with special reference to the requirements of the railway service. After rendering first aid, transport cases to the most suitable place. Do not copy paragraphs out of Cantlie's book, but tell in your own words what you would du.

The papers will be adjudicated upon by Dr. Vaughan Bateson, and his decision, in conjunction with that of the Editor, in awarding the prizes will be final, and the following conditions must be noted and adhered to :-

An entry must be made under a 110lJl de plume, and the full name and address of the Competitor must also be given on a separate sheet of paper. must .be. written on one side of the paper only. There IS no restrIctIon as to length of article, but same should not be unduly extended.

The Editor res.erves to .the to publish any of the papers submltted for competItIOn , gIVIng due credit to the authors of same. Any papers selected for publication will be regarded as the property of the Editor, who does no t guarantee to return any of them, neither does he hold himself responsible for any papers lost.

Entries for this Competition will close on Marclt I5 th I9 0 9, and all matter must by that date be in the hands of EDITOR, FIRST AID, 46, Cannon-street, London, E.C. The envelope should be marked" Competition. "

deemed necessary the Judges may, if agreed, alter or modIfy or add to these Rules and Conditions.

SANDOWN, 1. W.-A concert 111 aid of the funds of the local Ambulance Division was held in the Town Hall on J.anuary. 27th. The Sandown Band opened the proceed1l1gs With a march, and, following this, a little comedlette was most creditably performed by several ladies Dr. Drevey Pennington, during a break 111 the proceedmgs, t?ok the opportunity of thanking the subscnbers for havlllg presented the Division with an "Ashford" litter. It was, said the Doctor, a most useful and necessary part of their equipment. They had smart and bandsmen in Sandown, and he hoped the time was not far distant when their ambulance men would be equally as smart. Major Arnell, J.P., expressed his pleasure at being asked to publicly present the wheeledlitter to the Division. He hoped that all the members would join the Territorials. The concert was then proceeded with, and the evening concluded with the comedy" The Little Sentinel," which was capitally staged and acted, the several characters receiving well-merited applause. We are glad to know that the new Am bulance Station, pro."yided. by local Council for housing the newly acqUired htter, IS now ready. The Council has been th9.nked not only for providing the Station but for the courtesy with which the arrangements were carried out.

February, 19 0 9. -FIRST

Our Portrait Gallery.

HON. SURGEON ROBERT ANDERSON, M.D.. &c., GAThSHEAD FELL DIVI SION, S.J.A B.

FEW men are better known or more highly esteemed in connection with ambulance work in the North of England than the subject of our Portrait Gallery for this month.

A Scotchman by Dr. Anderson graduated at Edinburgh University, - obtaining the degree of M.D. 111

A I D.- 115

Irish labourer who had fallen from a gangway and fractured his thigh. The services of Dr. Anderson were requisitioned by the captain, and the patient was promptly fixed up with extemporised splints, &c" and eventually safely landed at Sil1oth, from whence he was subsequently conveyed to the Cum berland Infirmary and placed under the care of a fellow student (Dr. P. M. Braidwood), who was resident surgeon of that institution at the time.

1864, under the old regulations, without having previously obtained the degrees of M.B. and CM., and it is interesting to mention that the subject of our sketch was one of the last students to matriculate under these old regulations.

Dr. Anderson also studied various subjects at the Royal College of Surgeons, Edinburgh, and took the licence of the College prior to attaining the age' of twenty-one. During his curriculum he had the advantage of many brilliant professors who were then occupyin g the several chairs at t he University, amongst others we may mention Sir R. C hristian, Sir James Y. Simpson, Syme, Playfair and Goodwin.

In November, 1864, Dr. Anderson was appointed Resident Physician to the Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, under the late Dr. D. Rutherford Haldane. While holding this appointment the young graduate suffered from small pox and typhus fever, nearly losing his life from the latter disease, his being considered the worst case of typhus which recovered that year. Several of his fellow students died in the Institution from the same scourge, which was at that time very prevalent in the city, and was of a most virulent type.

During convalescence Dr. Anderson spent a holiday 111 Ireland and while there, in 1865, first practised first aid work board the S.S. "Waverley." The patient was an

In October, 1865, the subject of our sketch came to Seaton Delaval, Northumberland, as out-door assistant to the late Dr. Anthony Davison (of Hartley accident celebrity), in which capacity he had charge of a large colliery district, a position he held for two years, gaining considerable experience and seeing much practice in surgery. In 1867 he commenced practice in Airdrie, N.B., where he acted as surgeon to several large collieries and ironworks, including those of Faskine and Palace Craig, the property of Messrs. Wm. Baird and Co., the extensive iron and coal owners of Garthsherrie. After remaining. here for a period of five and a half years his former principal, Dr. Davison, requested him to join him as partner at Seaton Delaval, which he consented to do, taking the active supervision of that large practice, in which six or seven assistants were regularly employed. It was in the year 1876 that as a result of a humane impulse he was induced to suggEst cert'lin improvements in the methods of conveying injured miners from the pits to their houses Until this period the methods adopted were of the roughest, if not inhuman character ; as an example, we will presume a man suffering from a simple or compound fracture of the leg or thigh, or even a fracture of the spine, he would be brought to the bank in a square box tub and then placed OIl a "brattice board" and carried home without any attention, skilled or unskilled, having been paid to the injury or to the comfort of the unfortunate sufferer. It was just such a scene as this which camp- under Dr. Anderson's immediate notice on one occasion while at one of the collieries. A miner, who had sustained a compound fracture of the leg, was being carried on a rough "brattice" over rough roads, shoulder high, by four men, who were not marching in step, eithe'r broken or military, the screams and groans of the injured man were dreadful to hear. Dr. Anderson at once appealed to the carriers to handle and carry the patient more gently, also pointing out that if the y would follow his directions in marching with their burden it would be easier for the sufferer. Instead of complying with these kindly meant instructions, the men indignantly resented his interference, one remarking, "Does he think we're sodgers ?" Stung to the quick by this display o.f and inhumanity, the doctor resolved that all hiS !I1fl.uence should be exerted in bringing about an improved state of affairs.

Having discussed the incident with the manager, the late Mr. T. W. Asquith, instructions were given for a stretcher to be made under Dr. Anderson's personal superVISIOn. The workmen, however, in their obstinancy, ref'Jsed to have anything to do with it, and it was not until some years afterwards that Dr. Anderson. learnt of the existence of the "Furley" stretcher, supplied by the St. John Ambulance Association. By his advice one of these was placed at each mine belonging to the Seaton Delaval and Cramlington Collieries;. these were, much appreciated by the millers who sustall1ed ll1Junes. Thus, by the introduction of properly a new era was opened in the history of collIery aCCIdents, resulting in a more humane treatment of the sufferers. After being in operation for years these ar:nbulance arrangements came under the notIce of Mr. FenWick, M. P.

IJ6 -FIRST

for the Wansbeck Division of Northumberland, while on a visit to the Cramlington Collieries, with the result that when the Mines Regulations Bill of 1886 was before the House of Commons, Mr. Fenwick, in conjunction with the Rt. Hon. Thomas Burt, M.P., and others, secured the introduction into that Bill of the compulsory Ambulance clauses, clauses which have been, and are, of such benefit to the miners throughout the country to-day. Truly from what small beginning great results ensue .

In 1882 Dr. Anderson, at the request of Mr. Henry Richardson, then manager of Backworth and West Cramlington Collieries, undertook a course of first aid lectures at West Cramlington. These were under the auspices of the St. John Ambulance Association, and at the same time other classes wert formed at Backworth and Bedlington Collieries by the late Dr. P. Alexander, of Earsdon, and the late Dr. P. H. McLaren, Bedlington, respectively, and thus twenty-six years ago the systematic teaching of first aid to the miners of Northumberland was introduced by these three pioneers of the movement. Since that time, Dr. Anderson, although in charge of a large and responsible practice, has yet continued to teach am bulance and nursing, and every winter classes in both subjects have been held; he has spent upwards of a quarter of a century in the propagation of the instruction carried out under the auspices of the St. John Ambulance Association.

For many years past the Doctor has been on the Medical Staff of tile Association and has, therefore, been mainly responsible for th e instruction and passing of several thousands of in all parts of th e Counties of Durham and Northumberland.

Since relinquishing active practice at Seaton Delaval in 1898, Dr. Anderson has continued to act as Consulting Surge.on to Cramlington and Seaton Delaval Collieries, and he still continues to instruct and examine in ambulance work.

Upon taking up his residence in Gateshead, Dr. Anderson became associated with the Gateshead Fell Division of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, in which he now position of Surgeon, and so highly have hIS servIces to the DIvIsIon been appreciated by the members that they recently presented him with a handsome piece of plate.

On occasion of the Royal visit to the City of Newcastle m June, 1907, for the purpose of opening the new Royal Victoria Infirmary, Hon Surgeon Anderson was selected by the Deputy-Commissioner of the District (Lieut.-Col. Gibbon) to act as Medical Officer in charge of the Ambulance and Nursing Section on duty at the Station.

In the North of England the services of Dr. Anderson are. constantly i n. request.' either as a judge at some of the vanou.s which from time to time take place in the or, m other. ways,. his thorough knowledge of first aid work rendenng hiS co-operation especially valuable.

Among the public appointments held by the Doctor we may mention that of Medical Officer of Health to Seghill and Cramlington Urban District Councils. He is also Consulting Surgeon to the Seaton Delaval and Cramlington Coli ieries.

In February, r 908, the Council of the Order of St. John acknowledged the long and valuable services of Dr. by .his selection as an Honorary Associate, a dlstmctIOn w?lch had undoubtedly thoroughly earned, and one hIS many friends hope he may long be spared to enJoy.

SOUTH EASTERK & CHATHAM RA1LWAY. - The Stationmasters of this Railway have now handed over to th e Centre Committee a sum of money for distribution amongst the ambulance men in the form of prizes-a portion bei ng set apart to be given to those qualified ambulance men performing the best acts of practical first aid throughout th e year, and the remainder to the team representing the Company in the Inter-Railway Competition The pri zes will be distributed at the Annual Dinner, to be held at th e Crystal Palace on March 24th.

We are desired by the Centre Secretary to state th at mem bers of the staff wishing to attend this function, and who have not already purchased their tickets, should do so as early as possible, in order to avoid disappointment. The number of tickets already taken up has greatly exceeded last year.

On Wednesday, February 3rd, a Smoking Concert was held at Sittingbourne, when the certificates, medallions and labels gained by the members of the Sittingbourne class at the recent Examination were presented. Dr. Noble, the Medical Instructor, occupied the chair, and was supported by Mr. E. A. Richards, the Centre Secretary; Mr. W. Hancox, the District Secretary; Messrs. Wakefor d and Capon, Station Superintendents at Sittingbourne and Faversham respectively, and others.

During the evening Mr. Wakeford, in a pleasing "peech, handed to Dr. Noble a silver cigarette case, subscribed for by the members of the class, as a slight acknowledgment of his efforts on their behalf.

Dr. Noble suitably respond e d, and said that the fact that every m em ber of the class had successfully passed th e test of the examiner-Dr. Muir-a mply repaid him for all the trouble he had taken in connection with the instruction of the class.

Presentations wPore also made to Mr. W. Hancox District Secretary, and to Mr. Bert Goodyear. An musical programme was provided.

Lord Brassey has generously offered a shield for competition amongst ambulance teams of this Railway, to be competed for by mem bers of the staff at stations in Sussex, Southborough to Bexhill and Rye. Needless to say, his lordship'S action has given much satisfaction to ambulanc e men in the District, and will act as a stimulus to thos e taking up the work.

L. &. N-W. R.-A comoetition in connection with the Ambulance Class of the Locomotive Department of this Railway was held, by kind permission of Mr. G. Ward, at the Midland Mess Room, Shrewsbury, on Sunday, Jan. 3 1St. 1 he young members acquitted themselves remarkably well, and the smart and intelligent manner in which they went through the competition afforded excellent testimony to the value of the training they had received from Dr. U rwick.

Lieut.-Colonel E. Cureton (Deputy Commissioner N? 6 Division, S.J.A.B.), acted as judge, and awarded the pnzes as follows - 1 st, R. J. Biggs; 2nd, W. E. Fowkes ;

February, 19 0 9. -FIRST

3rd , T. Holding; 4th, P. Adamson; 5th , G. F:-anks, junr. Mr. McLellan, superintendent of the Locomotive Department, presented the prizes, which were given by Mr. E. Gough, Mr. W. H. Holt, Mr. Walker, Mr. Roche and Mr. J. Kerry.

NeEN-E.R. -A mbulance work has long been a most prominent feature in connection with this Railway, and under able direction of the Centre Secretary (Mr. Geo. Jackson) shows no signs of wainin g interest. meetinO' of the Centre was held in the Railway Institute, York, when Mr. E. Penly presided, and delegates were from the following branches of the Centre- York, Darlmgton Bishop Auckland, Shildl)n, West Hartlepool, Stockton, Gateshead, Jarrow, Le e ds, Ripon, Hull, &c.

AI D.- 117

To these classes 784 books and bandages had been Issued. Examinations had been held at Hetton, Malton, York, Grosmont, Shildon, Darlington, Blackhill and Tyne Dock.

Re-examinations had been held at Hull and Newcastle. The numbers who had passed the examinations since Nov em ber, 1895, were :-First, 5,839; second, 3,206; third, 2,322 ; and label, 433.

The accident returns were :-D:ulington District, 2,S5S; Hull, 2,426; L eeds , 1,021 ; Middlesbrough, 1,340; N e wcastle, 4,072 York, 4,956; total, 16,370, which made a grand total of 145,832 from January, r896.

Classes were already receiving their lectures at several places, and there were others just ab?ut to. commence, all this gave a very good prospect that thiS seSSlOn would more

CRESSWELL AMBULANCE BRIGADE.

[Ii ' orksop Guardian.

By courtesy] h th t' 1906 application was made This Brigade since it was in 19°.5, has was held in October 190 7, to headquarters to form a dl\'ISIO!?, permISSion gl.a n e .' 1 d hat uniforms be rovided for the Supt. Else of Sheffield bein g tIle 111 a very short whole of the members. Dr. W. !. Wood, the Hon. ffiulgeonfanL Cup., Imm. -1s t Officer Preston Sergt. Pettit, and Corps. Storey and Walden. members were eqUIpped. The other 0 ce rs 0 tIle orps are. ,

The Centre Secretary presented his report, which stated that during thE' last half-year 49 new ha.d b.een commenced at the following places :-Darlll1gton Dlstnct: Shildon North-road, Ferryhill and Barnard Castle. Hull District': Bridlington. Leeds District :. Crossgates and Masham. .Middlesbrough Dlstnct: Hartlepool, Saltburn, Dmsdale, West Hartlepool Heselden. Newcastle District: Tyne Dock, Hatton, Newcastle accountant's office, Gateshead, Park-lane, Ryhope, New Bridge-street, Blackhill, Seaham, Sunderland, Bunston, Carville, Percy Mam, Blyth, Tarrow, Tweedmouth and York Dlstnct : ford, Malton, Scarborough, Selby, York, Grosmont, Church Fenton, Heck, Pickenng and WhItby.

than equal those of the last few years, and, so far as he (the Centre Secret.ary) cou.ld learn, there .p!'ospects of larger entries bell1g receIved for the competitIOns from each district this year.

Business dealing with the competitIOns, the annual excursion, the accommodatlOn at several pla.ces for lectures, practices, &c., was discussed and dealt WI.th. Interesting letters from various. sources acknowledgl,ng receipt of the President's annual Clrcular were read, one of these was from an old member of the N-E.R. Centre now acting as Instructor to an Ambulance Class on the Canadian and Pacific Railway at 10ntr ea l. It was decided to hold the annual meeting in the Newcastle district sometime in July next.

Mista kes Often Made by First Aiders. *

By ROBERT D. MUIR, M.D., M.R.C.S.

(Coll.clttded .from page IOI),

Now with regard to artificial respir!ltion I wonder how many men there are here who, having been told to perform artificial respiration do it in the correct way as instructed by the text book? Place the patient on his back on a flat surface inclined if possible from the feet upwards. go .on to say would tie the tongue out and fix With a piece of e,lastIc W?uld you? Well you wait untIl you a case With the patient unconscious and then you, try tymg the tongne out, and if you can manage it effiCiently you are cleverer, than most folk. No, you can do ?etter than that. The, piece ,of elast,ic reads alright the bo?k, but, you wJ!1 find It well nIgh Impossible to work It 111 practice. Y?U should tell the examiner that if you had another y.ou who ,could hold the tongue whilst you performed, artifiCial respIration you would tell him to do so, but the performance of artificial respiration tongue IS liable to be drawn in and you lose time in trylOg to recover it" this will happen to a certainty if you rely solely on the piece of elrtstic, Tie it by all means or tell examiner that you would do so, but do not fail to tell him also that you somebody else at hand you would not waste time trYlOg to tie it but would have 't held, 1

In performing artificial respiration how few realise that got to imitate the movements of natural breathlOg,-lt IS pump" pump-but they would never succeed 10 restorIng breathll1g Very good e db' xerClse, no ou, t, ?xerclse for the operator, but if you are not gettlOg the air 10 and out of the lungs you are not doing it :orrectly, and however ,smartly you may be working you an exam mer or judge to be satisfied. One ?f the thll1gs that, me the first time I acted as ]udg.e a! a competItIOn was the very few times that artificial respiratIOn effectively. It often hap ens that the exam mer as to how long it be necessary ,to artifiCial respiration. Should he ask the candidate If he do it for half an hour, that to be a poser whIch requires a deal of cogitation of once ,rep,lying that he would practIce until authontatlvely advised that it wa 1 necessary. s no onger

In system you are told that you are to squeeze the patient below the ribs as though h d to fo h" you WIS e everyt mg 10 the chest upwards towards the mout.' Try and fully realise what you have to do and you wIll soon learn. how to do it. Many men when asked to treat drowned make a big mistake they turn theIr patient on to his left side In th f h h ,e case 0 a person w o. as been nearly drowned, hiS heart would be pulsatlOg ,at all and then only with the reatest difficulty; turn .hlm on to the left side and you rna g sto it altogether, but If you turn him on to the right side y ou £ill ,the heart.. ,Now don't forget that, the next tim/you do IS 10 C?mpetltl?n. I find men are invariably in too reat 10 changll1g to Sylvester's and Howard's metghod IS movement to side and squeezing is in itself aver' good method of artifiCIal respiration and goes by the

of Marshall Hall, but if asked by the examiner to treat the apparently drowned man, candidates seem to consider that they must almost immediately change tc Howard's or Syl vester's method.

Candidates when describing the treatment of a bite from a dog, leave out a most important item which should always be obser.ved. Should an individual be bitten by a presumably dog, one of the most important things is to save the hfe of the dog. You smile, but it's a fact. It is a most important thing for your pati en t that you should save the ,dog's life, and keep it under observation. Usually the dog IS allowed to escape; the patient is treated more or less correctly, but the doctor does not know what to do next. Was that d?g sane or, mad? If the dog was not mad he ?are not give the, patient the treatm en t requisite for treatl11g a case of bite from a rabid dog; the man there!ore has to run th e ri sk of going mad. Wher e the proper course is to keep the dog und er observatIOn for a few days. If you cannot make certain a veterinary surgeon will doubtless decide the point. If do,g is proved to be mad, the person who has be en bitten IS put und er a course of treatment which will ensure his life and h ealth.

Now in connection with injury to the head. Part of the treatm ent should be to allow the patient to sleep, W?O know a great deal about first aid, seem to thll1k If a chIld falls and its head it must be kept awak,e. As a matter of fact If the brain is injured it needs rest, m other words sleep, It is very wrong to keep on shaking a chJld, or, for a matter of that, an adult who ha s had a head mjury and is inclined to sleep.

Now about the removal of clothes in the case of sC,alds or Cut all round the seat of injury but never With a penkl1.lfe, always make use of a pair of scissors You not cut the clothes away with a p e nknife without domg more damage to the injured part.

If you are asked to describe the tr ea tment to be adopted in a case of choking, you all say that you would put your finger down the throat and hook it up, but you apparent,ly that before you push your finger down your patient s throat you must open his mouth the book says ,the mouth to, be fO,rcibly opened if but it requ,Ires a lot of to do this or you may find a pO,rtl,on of you,r finger bitten off. If you do not mention thIS 111 a?swenng the it ,goes to prove that you do not. realIse that there IS sometimes a great difficulty in the open and keeping it open, Som e have mformed me that they would tickle th e wlth,a feathe,r. Fancy a man who is choking havin g hIS throat tlckled WIth a feather! Others again have told me that they would administer an emetic and if the first did not act they would give another one!

ig,norance i,s when speaking of poisonin g, The IS so Interestll1g as bandaging, but, believ e me, IS m?re important than the study of what to d? In case of pOls :mll1g, What you are told about it in the lIttle black book is very Ii ttle, but it is very im portant. If you, should put up a fractured arm not quite correctl y you Will have done it sufficiently secure to prevent a SImple fracture becoming a compound, but should you do the wrong thing in poisoning the doctor cannot perhaps und? it: Remember a very large number of persons lose theIr lIves through poisoning. Very few persons who study the chapter on poisons learn all in it thoroughly.

Be sure you understand the why and wherefore of what the book says and you will perhaps find it easier to keep the treatment in your mind and give the right thing

February, 19 0 9 · -FIRST

to your patient. Here is a poison, It has first to be got rid of and then something must be given to counteract the effect of it. A man has ta,kEn an acid. What is the effect? In the first place there will be stains about the mouth, the mouth is burnt, the throat is burnt, stomach is burnt. There will be an acid taste in mouth. Retching and vomiting. In answering this question men go on to say that if the man had taken an acid they would give an alkali to counteract its effect. Quite so, but, say it cOffectly! The man has got some acid in his mouth, wash the mouth out well. The acid will burn him as he takes it, so he does not swallow as much as he intended, and although a lot comes back he has still a lot left in his mouth. The first thing, therefore, to do is to wash out with an alkali. Then give your patient a weak alkali solution and make him take it in sips. Why do you not tell me this, because you do not know why. If he has taken sulphuric acid, being an acid, there is a burn in his inside and if to this man who has taken an acid, you give a big drink of alkali they will be a big fizzing and the result will be that his stomach will burst. N ow, the most absurd answers are given as to doses ; it is of supreme importance to give the proper doses. One more point in connection with poisoning. Candidates omit to mention that they would preserve all vomited matter or supposed poison to show to the doctor. Remember it will be useful to the doctor, it may be useful to the coroner. .A stronger point still, it may be useful to save an innocent man from being wrongly punished. Always see that these things are saved. A piece of steel is imbedded in the eye, you are told to put some oil in the eye and cover it up and send patient to doctor. Excellent, but frequently not carried out in examinations or in practice, These pieces of steel are most troublesome to deal with and such cases are common in many districts. A man gets a piece of steel in his eye, he rubs it, His mate then tries to get it out; the foreman has a go at it; then someone in the office has a go; and then the manager tackles it. At last, after all these individuals have tried and failed, the doctor is called in and finds the case a much more difficult one owing to all this pulling about.

Just a few hints as rf'gards stret.:her work. Remember when going into the examining room, to enter in a proper manner. Don't lounge in with your hands in your pockets and don't start by bawling out your numbers, I, 2, 3, 4, at the top of your voice. I have sometimes noticed in competitions that the captain of a squad forgets that he has to deal with a patient suffering from very serious injuries who has to be moved as quickly as possible. Bear in mind yo u are given points for quickness, The captain should therefore not waste time by instructing the members as to how they should march, this should be unnecessary, the team should know all this detail throu gho ut. In testing stretchers remember they are not made of wrought iron and it is not necessary to toss one of the team upon it to test its reliability. In the individual bandaging when you have finished treating your patient don 't stand with your hands in your pockets waiting for the judge to inspect your work. It looks bad, Take up your position in rear of your patient and stand properly at attention.

When answering questions as to what you would do in case of insensibility, it is rare for a candidate to say If the man was bleeding, "I should arrest hcemorrhrtge."

You have an imaginary case of sunstroke, you lay him down with head and shoulders raised and then you give the examiner to understand that you pitch jugful after jugful of water over him "just any how" and in such a

A I D.-

manner that much of it will go in the mouth of the unconscious person and cause asphyxia.

One more case, and I have finished. We have a child with a bead in its ear. What is your treatment? "I wO uld send for a doctor at once," you reply. No, take the chIld to the doctor. If you must send for the doctor, also send word what you want him for, and, in the meantime, keep the away from the ear. If possible, however, take the chIld to the doctor. It Nill not hurt for the child to be taken through the streets, and the doctor being in his own house, will have at hand everything he might require which he might not have done had he obeyed the sum mons to come to your house.

Remember when you have been through a first aid class you have not studied everything. Above all, remember that first aid-is first aid only-although the treatment that you attem pt is excellent as far as it goes, Please do not go beyond it, for by doing so you are liable to bring it into disrepute. First aid is not second aid - never lose sight of that caution.

First Aid and Nursing For City Employees.

WITH a view to increasing the popularity of the first aid and home nursing classes among the employees of City firms, a display was given in the theatre of the Cripplegate Institute on the evel1ing of Tuesday, January 5th by the members of the 37th, or G.W,R. Division, Metropolitan Corps S.J.A,B" under 1St Officer Evans, assisted by Nursing Officer Mrs. Barnes and three nursing sisters from the St. John'S Gate Nursing Division.

The first scene, entitled "Worst Aid," depicted the treatment given to a person who had met with an accident in the streets of London, prior to I876. Scene 2 showed how the same accident would be treated by onlookers who had beer. through a course of instruction under the auspices of the St. John Am bulance Association. Scene 3 showed the improved method of lifting a lahourer with a broken back, caused by falling from a scaffold. Scene 4, a gun accident in the sporting field. Scene 5 depicted an ambulance station, as formed by the St. John Am bulance Brigade on occasions of public duty, In the first four scenes improvised material was made use of. Hon, Surgeon Carvell was in charge. The London qrchestral Band played a selection of music during the evemng.

BRISTOL. - There are few more enthusiastic "first aiders" or harder workers in the cause than Supt. Cotton of this corps, Supt. Cotton has for some years pa,st ?OW b,een in charge of the Transport Department, and It IS mamly due to his administrative ability that it has proved so successful. On February th, the subscribers to, and the mem bers of the corps, were entertained at tea by Dr. and Mrs. Hayman, at the University College Hall. The sion was the annual meeting of the corps, and opportumty was taken to present Supt. Cotton with a silver cigar case and pocket flask as a small token of affectionate regard from the officers and members of the corps. In aCknowledging the gift, Supt. Cotton his thanks and stated that he hoped in the future to stIll be able to work for the brigade. Experience had taught him to be happy yourself you must try and promote the happll1ess of others. Speeches commending the w?rk of brIgade to the citizens of Bristol, and appealing for mcreased financial assistance were made by the Lord Mayor of Bristol, Sir George White, and others.

A Lecture given to the Memhers of the Ambulance Centre a.t Ashfurd, S.E. & C. Railway

Brevities.

WE are all a little too prone to sing the praises of the New York ambulance system when decrying the system, or want of which prevails in our own metropolis of London. However, from details recently to hand from " the other side," the service appears to be by no means an ideal one, and we should say that many of our large cities are decidedly better off in the matter of am bulance organisation than New York is. *

Referring to the City Ambulance Service, the New York paper, L eslie' s TVeek(y, says ;-" Great progress has been made in the science of medicine and surgery, but a comprehensive plan for giving first aid to the injured in the streets or cities-a most vital need-has been neglected. American hospitals, with skilled surgeons and the most modern devices made possible by liberal endowments, promise to lead the world, but radical changes will have to be made in the present almost haphazard methods for getting medical assistance to distant points where it is needed in a hurry. Am bulance service in the cities of this country is inadequate, and, with few exceptions, there is an almost paralysing lack of organisation. Three hundred fire engines and trucks in Greater New York to 10,000 alarms each year 70 ambulances give aid to 70 ,000 cases. One thousand persons met death in the streets of New York City la:,t year.

"One of the great disadvantages of the present lack of organisation is the absence of a central authority to control the am bulance system in emergencies where concentrated aid is required quickly. The Police Department in New York apportions the city among the hospitals, makes the ambulance boundaries, and sends in the calls, but the method has proved far from effective. A recomis now before the city authorities that an ambulance bureau be established, and that all citizens be authorised to summon aid. It is suggested that if the plan is adopted this placard be posted at all telephones; 'In case of accident or need of an am bulance, call the Bureau of Ambulance, No. --. There is no charge for call.! Dr. S. T. Armstrong, General Medical Superintendent of Bellevue and allied hospitals, suggests, in addition, that a 11 policem e n be supplied with first-aid packages, such as each soldier in the United States Army carries. They are no larger than an ordinary wallet, and have been found exceedingly effective when used with intelligence."

THE New York Sun also referring to the am bulance question, says;- The decision made by the Governors of Roosevelt Hospilal to discontinue its ambulance service after next March makes plain the necessity which exists for the provision and maintenance of an adequate am bulance SYStM1 for Greater New York. The authorities of other

hospitals besides the Roosevelt believe that the city should relieve at least some of their num ber of the expense. There is also a lack of central supervision of the ambulances. The present system, if it may be called such, has grown up haphazard and fails to meet the requirements of the city. No ambulance service exists between 59th street and I3 st street on the west side. When the Rooservelt Hospital withdraws its ambulances none will be available for the length of over five miles between 67th street and Harlem. Accidents, therefore, in this district, cannot be attended to without inexcusable and sometimes fatal delay.

OTHER sections of the city are inadequately served by the hospitals, particularly in the boroughs of Brooklyn, Queens and Rich mond. If am bulance relief divisions are to be formed the city must supply the funds, and their efficiency should always be kept equal to that of the fire department. The question has been exhaustively studied by the State Charities Aid Association, which recommends the establishment by the City of at least one relief station on the west side. But it chiefly urges the creation of a regular am bulance department under proper supervision and control. The suggestion is endorsed by the hospital authorities and by the Mayor's Hospital Commission and is now before the Charter Revision Committee for action. Some such course as is advocated by the Association has now become imperative.

*

DR. James W. McLane, President of the Board of Trustees of the Roosevelt Hospital, interviewed on the subject, said; "It is the city's duty to support the ambulance service. We are perfectly willing to treat all patients brought to us. St. Luke's has no ambulance service, neither has Mount Sinai. The ambulance business is a police duty as it is now managed it is a much abused charity, for the police simply make use of the ambulances, in some cases, to save themselves the trouble of taking their , drunks' to the station-house."

SEVERAL letters have appeared in the medical Press from members of the medical profession adversely criticising the Memorandum recently issued by the Order of St. John, and which was published in our issue of November last. Now, the members of the medical profession have no stauncher champions than ourselves, for we receive almost daily evidence of what the Ambulance Movement owes to those generous and unselfish members of the profession who, constantly sacrifice their time and devote their talents to the instruction of their fellow citizens in the art of first aid, with the result that the aggregate of human pain is lessened and human suffering is minimised. We willi ngly concede that it is so, and we believe that the authorities at St. John's Gate realise that it is, but it is not the practice of the Order to distribute its honours indiscriminately. There are\ doubtless, some generous and

February, I909. -FIRST

unselfish men, who wait years for the recognition which seems never to come, but these are not the men who rush to print and air their grievances upon the house tops. to No, the medical man who adopts this method of amng his grievance is very often one who has am.bulance teaching a very efficient means of advancmg hiS local practice. Later on, too, he may. appointed upon the Examining Staff of the AssoclatlOn and there innumerable other possibilities open to him for securing emoluments in connection with ambulance training.

Now such an individual rarely takes up brigade work, because it requires the fullest measure of self sacrifice, or if he does take it up, he rarely, if ever, gins the necessary first aid instruction to the men or women of his dlvision. No this duty is left to the 18Y officers. It is this class of d'ividual who resents the promotion given to a pushful, 10 hard-working surgeon, who perhaps, upon taking uP. hIS residence in a district, found that am bulance work was 10 a more or less moribund condition. He grasped the situation, a leader was wanted, one who could only formulate schemes, but could show the way to bring them to a successful finish. Is it to be wondereri at that he comes under official notice? Certainly not, he is the class of man who has made the Association and Brigade what they are. Of course as we said before, there may be-there undoubtedly' are- instances where official recognition h3.S been delayed, but in justice to the authorities at St. J.ohn!s Gate we believe we are correct in saying, that the claIms of any medical man, or layman, too, for the matter of tha.t, properly authenticated is never igr,ored. Of course, m connection with the higher grades of the Order, there are certain dues or obligations to be paid, as there are in the c.ase of all orders of chivalry. Some writers to the medical journals seem to lose sight of this they to assume that in recognition of the serVlces whlch they have rendered, they should at least be appointed Knights without any fee whatever. We believe we are correct m stating, that the only distinctions which are conferred .by the Order without fees, are those of Honorary Servmg Brother, or Sister, and that of Honorary Associate.

A SHORT time since, says our contemporary the kfedical Press, the Paddington Board of passed a resolution allowing twenty men of the 1St City of London Field Ambulance, R.A.M.C., to attend their .Infirmary to receive instruction in the application of splmts and .the d of wounds on the understanding that no patient resslOg, h' was to be dressed by them without preVIOusly lS consent. One guardian, Col. Maunsel, strongly to the arrangement, declaring that patients, should not be practised on even with their consent, and another !!entleman supporting him, the question is :0 be shortly with a view to rescinding the resolutIOn. Now, It IS hardly necessary to say that every proper step that can be taken to protect hospital patients-pauper or eleemosynary- should

AI D.- tH

be taken, but it is equally obvious that unless would-be beginners practice on some such person, they will never be beginners at all; and one generation will suffice to see the extinction of doctors and all attendants on the sick. Students and ambulance must learn on someone, only they must do so under strict tutilage and supervision. Even at the Anti-Vivisection Hospital it would appear that nurses are allowed, under the medical officer, to sew up wounds, though that lS the only Institution we know of in London where such a practice is permitted. Should the Paddington Board do as they are asked, and go back on their resolution, they are likely to throw the wounded Territorial soldier of to-morrow into the hands of men who have never been taught to handle or deal with a sick man. Are these gentlemen aware, we wonder, of the fact that in the serious outbreak of typhoid which occurred in Maidstone, some years back, the men of the local corps-R.A.M.C.(Vols.) - volunteered for duty night anJ day, and during than trying period were engaged in nursing the patients suffering from that terrible malady?

*

IN the Journa l oj the Roya l Army iVIedical Corps , General Sir Evelyn Wood, in an article on "Tactics and the Health of the Army," says important as is the higher training in tactics, or the .art of killing with minimum of personal risk, yet all Improvements therem have surpassed by the life-saving labours of the Army. Department. It is probably that future generatIOns Will acclaim surgeons as the most notable benefac:ors lhe human race during the Victorian epoch, but theIr art 10 the Army comes mto use only after battles, and for every men saved by the skill of the surgeons, medicine saves its tens of thousands. It was not studIed in 1848. Soldiers were generally recruited from the classes of farm labourers and journeymen. Each man was carefully inspected j one-third of those offering only being accepted by the doctors as fit for serVIce. Those who got seriously ill were invalided, and thu.s passed back into the civil popUlation yet that popula:lOn had somewhat less than half the mortality of the men who d'n the Army At that time in clvd bfe clerks lO remame 1. offices furnished the greater proportion of men lO a population of 28,000,000 who dled every year before their natural time, m to who ?ecame chronic invalids. The clerks, bke the soldIers, dIed "from want of fresh air.1! Sixty years ago only we:e the barrack rooms destitute of every conveOlence found lO d · y house but were without any arrangements for an or 1l1ar , common decency. ------.--.-------

At the meeting of the Council the Lond?n Fire Brigades Association, on the 1.6 lOSt., Captam HoratIO Miller presiding, Captain Walter Hitch cock, of the Fire Bri ade, was unanimously reql!ested to hIS LL g t e 011 "The Fire Services of AustralIa and antern ec ur I d '11 London/! before the members, for which an ear y ate Wl be arranged.

New York Revisited.

By LIEUT.-COLONEL G. E. TWISS.

MANY years ago I had graduated at the College of Physicians and Surgf!ons (Columbia) New York, and been House Physician at the Roosevelt Hospital and it has always been my hope that when my retirement from the Service permitted me so to do, I should visit New York and look at it, so to speak, through the vther end of the glass.

I had left there with the world before me. I went back for a month last summer surrounded by the ghosts of "might have beens" J

It was a fine morning, hot and hazy, as it generally is in July, when we steamed into the outer harbour-and here one noted that the ancient obsolete guns which ornamented antique forts in the long ago, had been transformed into very modern ones by the influence of the late war.

In the inner harbour I was much struck with the statue of "Liberty." I hiLd seen the hand and torch at the Philadelphia Exhibition, in 1876, but it carried no idea of the grandeur, the simplicity, and the force which are embodied in the whole figure as it now stands.

Next came a vista with the Brooklyn Bridge and webs of other bridges, only the piers of the first one had been erected when I left New York, in 1877, and by comparison the houses in New York itself seemed to have disappeared and their places to have been taken by a few large houses. This, on closer approach, I found, to my surprise, was due to the fact that the skyscrapers so dwarfed the other buildings that the latter literally did not catch the eye.

The fuss and excitement of landing, the urbane Custom House officers and the sensible protective tariff had not changed in the least.

It might be appropriate here to say that I noted that now in New York people no longer asked for imported articles for which a long price used to be charged, but bought American made articles of which in many instances, coat-shirts, etc., I found to be lower in price than in England. The same is true of most clothing, underclothing, boots, all of which used to be four times the price they were 10 England.

My relations lived in Brooklyn and the trip there that morning only impressed me with the heat of New York City, of which Brooklyn has now become a part.

My trip being by way of holiday and rest, I spent much of my time with my cousins, whom I had not seen for over thirty years, and whose welcome and kindness like old wine, had improved by time but not crusted. Nevertheless, I made sundry alaru ms and of which I shall now speak, and I put them neither chronologically nor in order of merit, but just as they come t.o me, for I did not keep a diary.

Al D.- February, 1909.

to great improvement. The whole system of feeding patients is different from that which obtains in the British Service, e.g. the doctor purchases supplies, etc. This, in my opinion, is open to many objections. It was an old hospital, brought up-to-date in places, and like similar ones I have seen, reminded me of "new wine in old bottles" !

I had not the necessary leisure to visit the new General Hospital at Washington. That is, I hope, a pleasure deferred, but the strength of a chain is its weakest link.

The seamy side of war, as we call it-appeals very strongly to the public at the time, but the lesson is soon forgotten, and when the sudden call again comes I fear it will find again a lack of t.·ained hospital attendants.

This brings me to the American National Red Cross -this great Society, whose aim is the amelioration of suffering and sickness, and the prevention of disease in time of peace, and assistance-and valuable assistance it will be -to the Medical Department of the Army in time of war.

I had several interesting interviews with Mr. Hurd in New York, and spent a pleasant evening with the heads of the movement in Brooklyn-posing, in a humble way, as an exponent of how the Ambulance Department of the Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem in England worked towards the end which they hoped to attain.

I felt that the original division of the Order into languages was still holding good, and that our brethren across the water, speaking the Anglo-Saxon tongue, being modern, had adopted the flag of the Geneva Conventionbut were really serving under the banner which through different ages ha, floated proudly over Jerusalem, Cyprus, Rhodes, Candia and Malta, and now peacefully waves over our Hospita.l at Jerusalem and elsewhere. Pro utilitate lzominu11Z.

I do not doubt that, in time, thE: American Red Cross with the President of the Stales at its head, State Officials in each State, and subordinates in each lown and city and village, will be a great power for good both in peace, and, if need be, in war. But in this Society, as in all organizations which tend to the same results, the additional motto is needed, "Lest we forget."

MyoId College, through the of a millionaire had moved from its old quarters 23rd Street and 4th Avenue to a new home opposite the Roosevelt Hospital.

I use the word "home" advisedly for it is literally a place where science and art abide, and I could not, to my shame, help feeling that I was glad in my young days gO much had not to be learned. It has, however, been my good fortune lately to be associated indirectly with Baden Powell's Boy Scouts, and in perusing his book I could not help thinking, "There is much in this book which is good reading for a medical student." Memory, power of observation and common sense, are the foundation of all medical and surgical success.

February, 1909· -FIRST

corner of street, and avenue, a known drug store or a police station, the dial telegraph often. spelled out what the accident was while w.e were inspannlOg 2:nd off we went full gallop, gong ring.1Og, and traffic cleanng for us.

.

The superintendent told me that theIr new. mO.tor ambulances were not the success they hoped. Of thIS klOd of sick conveyance more anon.

One of the Brooklyn doctors kindly introduced me to a commissioller who took us in his motor (why. do the Americans waste breath by calling them automobIles?) to the hospital on the way to Coney Island.

This Hospital was an of the. of modernising old buildings, and theIr electncla.n impressed me as one of those who the shrine of science, into whose mystenes he had. beer; IOltlated by Edison, was willing to sacrifice at that shnne, lImbs and health.

Here I saw two patterns of motor ambulance, and here it was impressed on me its grave disadvantage. True, you reach. your patient qUickly; but if you want to get him to rapidly, or still worse, if you have to pull up at intervals on the way, the vibration more than counteracts the gain in speed.

AI D.- 12 3

What struck me most in New York itself was the huge increase in the size of the City itself, an extension which if it continue to the west (instead of towards the moon) will doubtless cause its Corporation to include "Frisco," as they have already done Brooklyn within its limits.

Some years ago a distinguished officer of the Department was over here to see how we m:-naged thl.ngs, and being Adjutant of the Depot R.A.M.C. at lhe time, and he "the visitor" I answered, I hope clearly many questions. We had since b?oks on mili;ary medical regulations and other such lIght literature. Now that he too has retired, he invited me to spend a week-.end with him at Princeton. Apart from pleasant conversatIOns on subjects in which we were mutually interested, he showed me over the battlefield of Princeton and its University. Of Princeton, in my student days, I had heard"Ye towne is full or talent And Higer bier salo ons " I had the talent as my companion, but he and most of the mhabltants of " ye anciente towne," like J myself does not hold with alcoholic beverages.

.

In. matters a diary is a necessity, but for other thmgs It IS best to rely on the records which our brain makes and retains, and put such records in our animated gramaphone as they come to hand.

. I spent a pleasant morning and had lunch afterwards wl.th Colonel --, at Governor's Island. It is only a few mmu.tes from New by ferry, but the change is refreshlOg to the eye. Bnefly, the Island is verdure cladNew York is not.

I had a look round the military hospital and took full advantage of I?Y position as a visitor to ask questions. I found that, as 10 other cases, finance is the stumbling block

The Roosevelt Hospital, I was proud to find-having been a resident and afterwards House Physcian in 18761877, was still worthy of its old traditions and might well be held up as a pattern.

The ambulance I had built for it in J877, when I had the pleasure of inaugurating its Ambulance Service, had been sold only a few years ago and had done its duty well. At the period of which I speak New York was divided into districts, and in each district there was a hospital and its ambulance, with doctor, driver and horse ready to turn out at a moment's notice-day or night, each hospital had its call. Our's, if I remember aright, was three-fours, his was followed by a number which meant either the

"On a sternwheeler" Nile boat the onl y place that one could write a letter or take a meal in comfort was sitting in a swinging cot, when some one with more mechanical

genu is than I have, can work this principle into motor alll bulances and other conveyances for sick and in-

SUPP LIED TO THE ASYL U:\IS BO ARD THE , , S OF WHICH WE BY ME SS RS. JAME S & BROWN, LTD., DETAI L

Through my entire trip lasted onl y a calendar month (the first I have done) from the day of starting to the day of return to Southampton. I managed to get in a little of the ancient and accepted during my sojourn. I witnessed the 3' at " The Tuscan" Lodge, in Brooklyn, and visited the " D::tmascus" Commandery there, at both of which I received the fraternal greeting and GAVE IN OUR LAST ISSUE. jured, the patients will have good reason to thank hIm.

My thoughts on skyscrapers, when I was on a skyfl d' "How soon can I scraper could be bne y expresse 10 f r with say I am ready to go down." I.t IS the ee h one experiences on the top of the Pyranl1d of not benealh you, and though mar:y ago I could e better of that feeling when 10 Egypt or \Vh.en sta:1 .lOg on the top of St. George's Hall at Gibraltar,. me It 1S a case of tempora 1nlttantuy, et nos 171/1 tamlt1' Z1l zlltS. I I venture to think skyscrapers, except to the man W 10 k v ou are as far from the owns the ground, are a rl11sta e: G h man on the 99 th (?) floor as If he were half-way up t e block. If all the houses in Broadway were skys<crapers what about the ventilation in the If they all :ad to em t their humanity at once It would not even e a case standing room only" in the The thought of what would happen to those l1vlOg 10 and these buildings should an earthquake shake Newf is, in view of recent events 10 Mess1Oa, too aw u contemplate.

kindness which masonry carries with it. The Temple, in 23rd Street, is a work of art both outSide and side though I heard is now too small to accommodate In , the many brethren in the CIty.

I had also much pleasure m meetmg the-I am sorry to say-few whom time and vicissitudes of fortune had left of myoid colleagues, and I found that the eyes are really what one remembers of the face.

When I met Dr. Burt first, we we re as strangers, but as we talked and looked each other straIght 1': the eyes, the years which had passed our last meetmg melted into space, and instead of SlttlOg 111 the roof of the Hotel Astor chatting over coffee and a cigarette and 1· t . to the band it might have been on the roof of the IS en1Og, d ., h t Corridor in Roosevelt Hospital the a ml.ss.IOI1S t a day when in 1876 he was Senior ASSistant PhYSICian and I the junior.

Not one, but several last words :-Rest on an ocean 1· fine weather is real rest-no letters, no telegrams lOer 10 .' t d (save Marconi), no bothers. The sea aIr IS not tam e

1\10TOR A"[]'U L,\NCI£

-FIRST

with sewage, boarding-house keepers, or other seaside pests.

To those who, like many of my professional brethren, want both rest and sea ::tir with freedom from worry and to those who want to prescribe the same for a patient with such needs, I emphatically say try a trip to New York, even if you only stay a week and come back on the same boat which took you out.

Obituary.

IT is with sincere regret we have to announce the death, after a long illness, borne with patience and christian fortitude, of Sir Owen Tudor Burne, G.c.I.E., K.C.S.I., which occurred on Wednesday, February 3rd

Sir Owen had a distinguished career in connection with the Indian Service, and is better rightl y described as one of the most distinguished Anglo-Indian officials.

He was a Knight of Grace of the Order of St. John, and had been a selected member of the Chapter General for several years past. He took a keen and acti\'e interest in the Am bulance Department and was a delegate representing the St. John Am bulance Brigade, and rarely failed to put in an appearance at the special parades and other functions connected with the Metropolitan Corps. At the time of the Boer war, when members of the brigade were mobilising in Ll)ndon prior to their dep :uture for South Africa, S ir Owen never missed the weekly church parade at the Priory Church of St. John, Clerkenwell. On more than one occasion he addressed a few kindly words to the members ere they were dismissed.

The Brigade has lost sever'll good fri e nds by death lately, but none was a truer friend than Sir Owen Burne; he backed up the Brigade because he believed in it; because he recognised its value, not only to the country, but to the Order which gave it birth. He had "no axe to grind," no personal idea of self-aggrandisement, his nature and principles were never swayed by personal motives. He inspired respect and esteem from all of those who were brought into contact with him, and this feeling ripened into personal regard and affection among those whose privilege it was to be associated with him in the many good causes in which he was a worker. He will be greatly missed in many a circle, and genuine and sincere sympathy will be extended to the members of his sorrowing family in this their irreparable loss

The T£mes briefly sums up Sir Owen's work in a few words which will adequateiy express our own ideas, we therefore venture to quote them :-" He was so unpretentious, so human and gentle, so genial in manner and kind in heart, that no rival could envy his success and no man be his enemy."

Captain Lefebevre, who the older members of the Fire Service in this country will recollect organised the first deputation of French Fire Brigade Officers, who came over in r889 and rode in the procession on Lord Mayor's Day, died recently, and by his death the British service loses one of its staunchest fri ends on the continent. He was the pioneer of all the meeting of the two services in the earlier days of the N.F.B.U. He was a man who P?ssE.ssed a most genial and lovable nature, which made hlm much esteemed here, and was always delighted to assist in organising those gatherings which have done so much to bring about the entente cordial. We offer our sympathy to his French colleagues and to his wide circle of friends.

AI D.- February, r 909

The Aero Fire Alarm.

Now that the various Insurance Companies have recognis ed the value of the automatic fire alarm, and make a substantial rebate in the premium, to those individuals whose premises are adequately protected by a reliable installation, we anticipate that not only will business firms more generally adopt the idea but it is to be hoped that private residents especially those residing in some of our historic mansions will also take advantage of this method of fire alarm.

One of the best, inasmuch as it is one of the most reliable, systems at present on the market is "The Aero" and it has also the advantage of being the least costly to instal. Our space will permit only of a very brief descriptIon, but to those who are desirous of learning more about it, we would say write at once to The Aero Fire Alarm, Ltd., 9 2 , Queen Victoria St., London, E.c., and they will not only send you a little booklet free, but will also be pleased to give an estimate for the installation of the system in premises of any magnitude, nature or location, at no charge, and without delay.

Briefly e xplained, the alarm consists of a copper tube, one-tenth of an inch in outside diameter, which is run round the ceiling of the rooms of a building It can be carried from room to room through walls, or from floor to floor exactly in the same way as an electric wire. Both ends of the tu be go to the indicator board, where one is joined to the detector chamber. This latter consists of a flat circular chamber, one side being made of a thin flexible disc, above which are arranged two contacts, so that if the pressure of the air in the tube caus(>s the disc to bulge, these contacts are brought together and close an electrical circuit. Near the detector chamber is a leak which connects the tube with the outer air. This is closed more or less tightly by a porous washer and adjusting screw. The other e nd of the tubing is joined to a testing chamber operated by a push button, which, on being pushed in, creates a slight temporary pressure in the tube, simulating the conditions, and producing the results of an actual fire. Its mode of operations is as follows :-

Owing to the leak, the air pressure inside the tube is always the same as that of the atmosphere, and fluctuates with it. Air is always passing in or out of the leak, and, since the pressure on the inside and outside of the flexible disc is the same, it has no tendency to move. Lighting gas jets or fires, heating by water or steam circulations, and such like, cause a slow rise of temperature which results in an expansion of the air in the tube. But th e increased pressure merely pushes so much air through the leak, and the flexible disc does not move, for, since the pressure rises slowly, it accommodates itself through the l eak A fire, however, raises the temperature within seconds. The air pressure in the tube rises faster than it can escape at the leak, and bulges the flexible disc, thus closing the contacts, completing the electric circuit, and transmitting the fire signal to outside gong, central office or. Fire Station.

A social evening was held at the headquarteas ot the Northampton Corps on Feb. 9th, over which Chief Supt. Harvey Reeves presided. The" Wilkinson" Cup and other prizes were presented to the winners by Mrs. Wilkinson.

WHEN CORRERPONDING WITH ADVERTISERS PLEASE MENTION "FIRST AlD."

February, 19 0 9 -FIRST

An Automatic Artificial Respirator.

IT is not so long since Professor Schafer introduced to the notice of the medical profession, and those interested in life saving, his new method of artificial respiration, and now information reaches us, of the invention of a wonderful apparatus, which injects oxygen into the lungs of inanimate persons, in a perfectly natural manner.

Professor Zuntz, about three years ago, suggested the investigation of the problem of arti ficial by means of inflation and abstraction of the air from the lungs. In the course of this investigation it was decided to abandon the handbellows construction; it being recog nised that the injector worked by the force of oxygen compression in a steel bottle was the only satISfactory motor power. This injector is fitted ,yith a device with which it alternately inflates the lungs, taking in fresh air mixed with oxygen, and sucking the bad or respired air ou t of the lungs.

This however, we understand, did not entirely solve the problem of artificial respiration by automatic methods, for the following difficu lties were encountered in the course of experimen ts with the invention :-

(1.) The fresh air must not be permitted to mix with the expired bad air, the socalled residual air.

(2.) The face mask should fit absolutely against every face.

(3.) It is not sufficient that air is blown through the mouth and nose, but care must be taken that the tongue is drawn forward out of the mouth, because with THE DRAEGER a lifeless person the ., soft tongue lays itself against the. opel1lng of ':'ll1dplp e and in this way prevents the aIr from I.nto the lungs. Therefore, the of artificial do es not serve thp- purpose If the tongue IS not d.rawn forward.

(4.) The respiration -rhythm for the patIent should be regulated by the hand of the ." First Aider" by ma?lpulating the apparatus, but the hfeless and .ItS sIze itself should indicate the rhythm of respiratIOn-Il1 other words as soon as the lungs are filled the apparalus should change over to "Suction," and as as the lungs are empty the apparatus should automatlcally reverse to "Pressure." The apparatus should work equally well with a child or an adult, whether the lungs are small or large.

(5.) Pressure and suction in the apparatus shoyld be balanced, the pressure should neither become too hIgh nor the suction too weak. In both cases a force up to 30 cm. water column is desirable.

A I D.-

(6.) The compressed oxygen should last as long as possible.

Those of our readers who are interested in this subject, especially those connected with the mining industry and chemical manufactories, will at once see that in the above description you h ave an almost reviving apparatus. We present an illustration of the apparatus which has now been placed on the market. It has taken about one and half years of almost continuous experimenting, and the price complete is only £20. All Collieries, Fire Brigade and Ambulance Stations should oossess one or more of the respirators. It can be obtained from Mr. R. Jacobson, 70, Shoe-lane, London, E. C. ---. ---.

Mrs. w. \ Church-Brasier, the wife of the late Brigade Chief Superintendent of the St. John Am bulance Brigade, who when Lady Superintendent of the St. John'S Gate Nursing Divis:on was keenly interested in the annual distribution of clothing to the poor children in Clerkenwell, is now engaged in similar work in Margate, having recently undertaken the position of Lady Secretary of the Boot and Clothing Fund for necessitous children attending the elementary public schools in that town. Mrs. Brasier writes us :-" I know that amongst the many kind-hearted women who are enrolled in the brigade there are some ,vho are at all times ready to assist in any good work which might claim their sympathies, irrespective vf locality. Until I accepted this post I had no idea RESPIRATOR. there was so much urgent need amongst the poor in this town. Or cou rse it is a season place, and when it happem, as It. has done that the building trade is slack, the ?Istress at thIS. time of the year is increased. If ladles have any ht.tle or cast-uff children's clothIng, and the need. Il1 then own district is not great, I sh o uld be so grateful If w?uld kindly send me any they coul? They mIght either be sent to me at Blenheim, ClIftonville, Margate, or to the Poor Children's Dinner Rooms, New Cross-street Schools, Margate."

On Feb. 11th Mr. A. W. Faire presided a large audience assembled at the Grand Hotel, to witness. the presentation of the Leicester Ambulance Cup and to lIsten to an admirable concert, arranged by W. G. Jones We understand the proceeds will be devoted to the umform and equipment fund.

N a tional Fire Brigades Union.

THE 21St annual general meeting of the Central Council of the above was held on February ] oth, at the Holbbrn Restaurant, London, when there was a large and representative gathering of officers present. Lieut. -Col. Seabroke presided, and was supported, amongst others, by Chief Officers Dyer, Henderson, W. L. Bradley, Hedley Peters, T. Dyson, H. Hall, J. Plewis , A. E. Nicholls, J. Booker and P. Clulee, Capts. G. Horn and Knox, Surgeon Major Maitland C offin, Dr A. Greene, and Messrs. Horace Folker, C. Kusel, E. O. Sachs, A. Slater, and E. W. Tabor.

Prior to commencing the business on the agenda, Mr. Folker explained that owing to illness the Gen. Hon. Sec. was unable to be present, and he had been requested to act as secretary pro t em.

Chief Officer Clulee said he was sure that all present learned with regret of the illness of Chief Officer Hill, and he thought that they should pass a vote of sympathy with him-a proposition which was carried unanimously.

The minutes of the last m eeting having b een read and duly confirmed, Col. Seabroke, rising, said he desired to inform them of the death of one who, he thou g ht, was one of their oldest comrades in France, Capt. Lefebevre. He was sure that all of those who had had the pleasure of meeting the deceased officer would agree with him, that he was one of the most pleasant men they had ever met. He moved that a vote of condolence should be sent, through Mr. Kusel, to the family of the deceased officer. The motion was passed in silence.

The following new Brigades were elected: Harmondsworth (South Midland), Kidderminster (Midland), Dudley (Midland), Bala (North Wales).

The various reports of the several Committees were then presented, each in turn provoking much discussion. This was especiallly marked in the case of the report of the Finance Committee. The report of the Tournament Committee respecting the advisability of again holding the annual camp at the Crystal Palace was submitted by Mr. H. S. Folker, who informed the meeting that owing to the financial difficulties of the Crystal Palace Company, the had been delayed'; to-day, however, the LiqUIdator had held out certain hopes of arranging terms based on those which were granted on the last occasion, but the Tournament Committee, after mature deliberation had decided to recommend that the matter should be further proceeded with for the present. The report was adopted.

In submitting the report of the Finance Committee, Chief Officer Levy, referring to the satisfactory condition of the finances of the Union, said they were never in a better condition or on a sounder basis than they were today. They had on deposit at the bankers the sum of £59 8 ; in the Post-office Savings Bank £70, and a balance in amountin.g to £25. He had much pleasure in movlOg the of the report. Prior to its adoption, however, Chief Officer Hedley Peters suggested that it

AI D . - February, 1909.

would be preferable that they should have a separate camp account, pointing out that he, although a member of the Tournament Committee, had never seen the accounts for camp.

Mr. Folker explained that the account was presented at the last committee meeting and approved and duly signed by the camp commandant Chief Officer Clulee.

Chief Officer Peters further enquired as to which committee would be responsible in case of a deficit, and it was explained that the camp and tournament committees were jointly and severally responsible, but that the £600 on deposit at the bank was available to meet any deficit which might accrue.

The following resolution was then proposed by Chief Officer Peters "That the balance sheet of the camp account shall in future be submitted to the Finance Committee and printed on a separate sheet."

This WR.S seconded by Chief Officer Nicholls and carried.

After some further discussion the report was adopted.

Chief Officer Henderson presented the report of the Committee for the Long Service Medal, hy which it appeared that 263 bron ze medals and 160 silver medals had been granted by the Committee, the awards having only been made after the strictest inve stigation. Two meetings had bee n held to consider the question of a medal for ambulance men, and it had been decided to issue such a medal. The report was approved and adopted.

The r e port of the G e neral Purposes Committee was presented, and dealt principally with suggested alterations to several of the rules, many of which related to the wearing of the uniform by unauthorised persons. The Committee also submitted dress regulations for offi c ers, men and honorary memb ers of Brigades affiliated to the Union. These, with but few modifications, were generally approved and adopted. The Mess Dress, which it was suggested should consist of a double-breasted r eefer jacket with blue or white waistcoat and black tie, did not however commend itself to the meeting, and after some discussion, Chief Officer Knox proposed that it should consist of a blue Eton jacket with roll e d collar, silver epaulettes, with N.F. B. U. badges on collar, a blue waistcoat with small _plated buttons of the Union. Capt. Horn seconded the proposal, but acting on a suggestion from Colonel Seabroke, it was decided to refer the matter again to the Committee to which should be added the names of those officers who had taken part in the discussion. This was carried. Dr. Greene pointed out that no mpntion was made of a regulation pattern overcoat, and it was decided that this matter should also be considered by the same Committee.

The report of the Committee of the Ambulance Department showed that it continued to make good pro gress, the actual number of officers and men enrolled showing an increase, although it was pointed out that the percentage was still very low considering the large number of mem bers enrolled in the Union. Tn order to increase the membership of the Department the Committee propose to request each Brigade to appoint an Ambulance Secretary.

The Committee reported that they had received from Mr Poncp.rot an oak and bronze shield to be competed for annually at camp as a "One man drill for first aiders."

The Committee had decided not to fill the vacancy occasioned by the death of Surgeon-Major Russell, and recommended that the office of Chief Surgeon be abolished.

The resignation of Surgeon-Major Harrison as Chairman of the Ambulance Committee, had been received with regret, and it was recommended that Dr. Greene should be

February , 19 0 9· -FI R ST

appointed Dep uty Chief Officer of the Department. The report was adopted

The Council recommended the re-election of His Grace the Duke of Marlborough as President of the Union, and the Vice-Presidents were also re-elected, Chief Officer Scott's name being added to the list.

The date of the annual general meeting and banquet was fixed for March loth.

The meeting closed with the usual vote of thanks to the Chairman for presiding.

. " Clarnico " F ire Brigade .

IT hardly seems possible that on Saturday 13th inst., the firm of Messrs Clarke, Nicholls & Coom bs held their loth annual dinner in connection with the "Clarnico" Fire Brigade, Am bulance and Band. Such, however, it is, and we must congratulate not only the firm, but also Capt. G. Horn on a most excellent gathering.

The men were reviewed by the well-known fire veteran, Col. Fox, of the Salvage Corps, and he had naught but praise to give them for their drill, display work, physique and discipline. With such a chief officer as Capt. G. Horn, and his two excellent lieutenants, Messrs Simpson and Sorrell, one cannot be surprised, for Capt. Horn has not only had the advantage of having had a portion of his training in this country but also abroad, and he has brought to bear on the brigade of this firm everything good that he has seen elsewhere.

After the review the dinner was held in the hall adjacent to the works, after which the presentation of pri zes was ma.de by Col. Fox. He took occasion to make much reference to the Territo rial system now in evidence in connection with the army, and on this and the fire service Col. Fox simply" wax e d " eloquent.

Various toasts were given during the evening, and the Chairman (Capt. G. Horn) set an excellent example in being very brief and very much to the point.

Anum ber of the men and staff of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade were present, and Divisional Officer Dyer replied to this toast in suitable words. The Mayors of Hackney and Poplar also had much to say in praise not only of the brigade but of the good work that was being accomplished by this well-known firm.

The toast of "The Firm " was drank with much enthusiasm, and Mr. J um., in replying, expressed the pleasure it gave the firm to advance the intere3t of this" trinity" corps.

One thing, however, we noticed this year was the absence of nursing sisters, but perhaps there is something special in reserve in the mind of Capt. Horn for the entertainment of that most excellent section.

The company numbered no less than 219, and amongst the visitors present were: Col. F.)x (London Salvage Corps), Col. Seabroke (Rugby Fire Brigade), Major Hindes (Essex Regt.), Major Coffin (N.F.B.U.), Capt. Smith (Ley ton Council) Mr. W. Stopford Brooks (Member for Bow and Bromley), the Mayor of Hackney, the MR.yor of Poplar, Mr. E. R. Dyer (Asst. Div. Officer

L.F.B.), Chief Officer Miller (Ley ton Fire Brigade), Mr. C. Haswell (Secretary L.P.F.B.A.), Supts. Robilliard (L F.B.), and Allison (L.S.c.), Station Officer Puttick (L.F.B.), Chief Officer Rushforth, Chief Officer Spears, Mr. E. T. Dane (L.P.F.B.A.), Drs. Southcombe and ToddWhite, Mr. Jackson (Eastern Telegraph Exchange), Mr. A. T. Dale, Mr. Evans, Mr. Gourlay, Mr. J. G. Locks, Messrs. A Horn, G. Mathieson, G. Morrison, Allwork and Sto llwerk.

AID.-

THE MOD E RN PHYSICIA N

By DR.

ANDREW WILSON.

A GREAT WORK FOR AMBULANCE MEN.

THE importance in the National life of the movement known as "First Aid and Ambulance Study" is now universally established, anc1 its usefulness has again and again been strikingly demonstrated.

A work that justifies its claim to be an epitome of all that specialised medical and surgical knowledge necessary for First Aiders, as well as an authoritative manual of reference on all information relating to Health and Disease, is therefore a work to be welcomed by all our readers who wish to study their subject more deeply than is possible from superficial text books.

In "The Modern Physician," by Dr. Andrew Wilson, fullest space is devoted to "First Aid" and Ambulance Work. In respect of completeness, accuracy of description, and wealth of illustration, "The Modern Physician" stands without a rival amongst the works published on this important subject in the United Kingdom. It is scientifically accurate and reliable without being dull ; the name of its editor, so long and popularly known as an expositor of Health laws and a teacher of Hygiene, is a guarantee of this. This work is absolutely complete as regards Health and Disease, and is thoroughl y up-to-date.

As a knowledge of the body in Health is necessary to the due understanding of the body when its functions are deranged by disease, a description of every part of the frame will be found h e re. The skeletons, muscles, digestive system, heart and lungs, brain and nervous system, organs of sense, skin, kidneys and the body's microscopic structure are duly described. In this connection the illustrat ions are of particular value, the "mannikins " or dummies more especially ; in these the organs are made to overlay each other exactly as they do in the human bod y

The section devoted to Hygiene includes the full exposition of the Laws of Health, and special attention is devoted to Physical Culture. Such topics as foods, beverages, air, exercise, clothing, sleep, baths, holidays, temperament, &c., are treated in this section.

The last volume is especially devoted to the Health of Women, and Dr. Wilson has here been assisted by a number of eminent women ph ysicians. Midwifery and the treatment and Diseases of Infants are here fully dealt with. Sections are devoted to Home Nursing and Invalid Cookery. The section on "The Family Medicine Chest " gives the uses, properties and doses of drugs, whether used as medicine, gargles, ointments, pills, &c.

A FREE BOOKLET.

TO T H E C.<\XTO N co PA NY C lu n H o use, urrey S re et L ondon, \V .c.

P lease se nd me, FREE OF' C HARGE an d w il hout "n y obli,fa lion on my part -

( ) Ill us trated Book.l e on " T HE M ODERN P HYS CIAN

( 2 Parti cu ars o you o fTer o de ltyer he com p let e wo r k or a firs pa yme nt of S 6d an d tb e ba ance o be pa d for by a few s m all month ly payme nt s.

NAME ( end his orm o a pos card ment on ng F IRST A ID.) AnDRESS

<S 4J> ::;,

We are in no way responsible jor the opinions expressea, 01 tIle stateme nts made, by Correspondentr.-EDITORS.

THE S.J.A.B. AND TERRITORAL FORCES.

SIR, - lf the write.r of the le.tter your January issue under the above headIng, who sIgns hImself a "Lancashire Lad, " will his ident ity either through your columns or to r will answer his vituperations, otherwise I beg to mform hIm that I take no notice of" pin pricks." r am sorry any" Lad" should be so lacking in esprit de corps as to hIS envy of another unit belonging to the good old eIght pomted cross overcome h lm.- Yours truly, J. OGDEN, Chief Supt. Accrington Corps, S.J.A.B. Also a Lancashire Lad. January 25th, I909.

. A co.urse of five lectures on "First Aid to the Injured," wtll be gIven by Dr. Samuel Osborn, F.R.C.S ., late chief surgeon to the St. John Ambulance Brigade, starting Tuesd,ay, 16th, at 8.30 p.m. sharp, at the Old Boys' Cluh, JewIsh Free School, Middlesex-street, London E. fee 2S: 6d., which will include all expenses The practIcal part wJiI be by Sergt. Ed. Selinger, of the St. John Ambulance BrIgade. Full particulars can be had from him at I43, Wilberforce-road Finsbury Park London, N. "

Aids to Memory for "First Aid" Students.

By L. M. FRANK CHRISTIAN, M,B., C.M., EDIN,

flol1. Lift Member of, and Examiner for, the St .fohn AmfJ1llallce Associatio1'. Edition. Revised Throughout. Additional Pbotographs. hTh,s valuable.. treatise . . . has now been th oroughly revised and ,roug t up to date. -First Azd ': The imp, ovement !s. \'ery both in text and illustration the .and the addIllons made ha\ e tendellto considerably increase the vallie o t e 00' In the hands of the first aider. "-Red Cross and A mlmlan ce Ne.us.

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SAMUEL HESS" SON 44, Bethnal Green Road, , LONDON, E. UNIFORMS, BADGES and Sundries of all kinds for Ambulance Brigades. THE CANTOR e HESS Bamboo Stretcher.

AI D.- February, 1909.

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Allman's " FIRST AlD."

Crown 8vo. 128 PAGES. III ustrated. THE HUM"AN BODY.

A Short Account of the Anatomical Arrangement of the \'ari ous Organs of Lhe Human Body.

By OWEN LANKESTER, M.R.C.S.

Illu st rated by a Moveable Figure show ing the exact posilion and relative size of the Organs of tIle Body. Price 2/= Net.

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By MARY TRUMAN, M.R.B.N.A., and EDITH SYKES, A.R.S.1. Crown 8vo, paper covers. Price 3d. ALLMAN & SON, Ltd., 67. NEW OXFORD STREET, Publishers, W.C., LONDON.

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Just Fift.h 30th Thousand. With 234 Original Drawings. Llnlp Cloth With Flap, 2S. 6d. net; Paper, IS. net. Post free IS. 3d. "FIRST AID" TO THE INJURED AND SICK.

An Advanced Ambulance Handbook.

By F. J. WARWICK, B.A •• M.B., Cantab., and A. C. TUNSTALL, M.D., F.R.C.S., Edin.

" Has already taken its place as a standard work. "-Brit. jJlJed .four. Fourth Edition. On Sheets 2ft 2in. by 3ft 4in. 2S. each, or 27s. 6d. net. the set of 18 Sheets, or mounted on Linen 45S. net. "Vith ickel Head for Suspension Adopted by tbe WAR OFFICE, tbe ADMIRALTY and the LONDON SCHOOL BOARD.

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Of the lllustrations in Warwick &: Tunstall's'" FIRST AlD' TO THE INJURED AND SICK."

Paper Covers, Interleaved, 6d. net. Post free 7d. AMBULANCE EXAMINATION QUESTIONS.

By D. M. MACDONALD, M.B., S.erg-. Lieut. 2nd Scottisl. llorsc. .'( Will be fou.nd. extrem ely useful by th<?se attending th e lectures prescribed uy Ihe chfferent ASSOCiations, ant! wboare prepanng for the examinations. '- Broad A

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The Independent Journal for the Ambulance and Fire Services.

To Our Readers.

As it is the wish and desire of the Proprietors to make this Joumal as instructive and entertaining as possible, correspondents in all parts of the country are asked to give it all the help they can.

Superintendents of Corps and Officers of Divisions of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, Officers of the Royal Army Medical Corps (Territorials), the Volunteer Ambulance School of Instruction, and Chief Officers of Fire Brigades will, it is hoped, do their best to make it known amongst the members of their respective organisations, and will also send for publication their official news and notices. Suggest lions are invited for Prize Competitions and other matters which will ad vance the interest of the] oumal.

We particularly desire to ask our correspondents to be brief and Lo the point in any communications they may send us for publication.

Correspondents sending in photos are urgently requested to state on the back of the same the name of the individual or the Corps or Brigade and give also the name and address of the sender.

We beg to advise our readers that we do not pay for photographs or copy sent, unless previously agreed upon in writing.

" First Aid" is published on the 20th of the month.

EDITORIAL.

this decision we are cordially in accord. Had the St. John Ambulance Association been found lacking in carrying out the instruction of women in these two all important subjects, there might have existed grounds for the formation of another and possibly more up-to-date organisation to undertake the promotion of women's classes.

WEIGHT 18 Ibs.

Women in War.

WITH the proposal to teach the Wives and daughters of the men of the Cheshire Regiment first aid and nursing we have every sympathy, for we rightly contend that every woman should be versed in both subjects, for not only may she find it useful in her own domestic sphere, but the knowledge may enable her to render valuable service for the public welfare.

As we said at the outset, with the proposal as here outlined we are confidently in agreement, but beyond that we cannot go. The request that was submitted to Mr. Haldane to recognise the movement in Cheshire as a separate organisation was, we are glad to see, politely but firmly declined, and the promoters were referred to the Order of St. John as a. body that was already carrying on work which was identical to that which the good people of Cheshire were proposing to inaugurate.

In his reply, written on behalf of the Secretary of State for War, Sir Alfred Keogh the Director-General, points out" that it is not desirable to multiply the number of organisations dealing with similar movements." With

One thing we gathp.red from a perusal of the account of the inaugural meeting, and that was, that, a request had been made to the War Office, for a distinctive badge to be issued to al1 of those qualifying under the scheme. Now we do not doubt, but that this proposed badge played an important part, in connection with the formation of this special organisation. Although the wearing of insignia in this country is rarely seen in street; upon the Continent it is constantly in evidence, and some of the lZed Cross Societies have adopted the idea not only as a means of identifying their members, but also as a method of increasing revenue, for in some 50cieties there are various grades of members, with particular insignia restricted to each, and fees are payable on each in accordance with a schedule laid down in the constitutions of the Societies. That a special service badge has an attraction even in our own country, is borne out by the fact that the members of the Royal Naval Sick Berth Reserve, and the Military Horne Hospitals Reserve in the United Kingdom, are very proud of their special badge which is not only a proof ot their proficiency but also of their patriotism.

We have on more than one occasion urged the claims of the Nursing Sisters of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, to have some position assigned to them, in connection with the scheme for National defence, and that there is a very real ,and very earnest desire on-the part of women to take up their obligations, is only too evident, and this movement in Cheshire is only another proof of its wholehearted ness.

With regard to the role to be played by women in war, however, we have one or two further remarks to make. War is a serious subject, and is often carried on amidst scenes which appal even the stoutest heart, succouring the wounded under such conditions therefore requires not only great physical endurance, but an absolute indifference to the horrors which may surround one. In such a case a women would be quite outside her element close up to the firing line, and we do not for one moment suppose that any

-FIRST

responsible officer would permit women, however persistent they might be, to approach anywhere near to it.

These remarks are called forth by the pictures we have seen and the reports we have read of the training of the Girls' First Aid Yeomanry Corps. We have no doubt the training is excellent, and there is no question that many of these young ladies would prove valuable assistants to those engaged in tending the sick and wounded, but that would not be in the forefront of the battle. No, in spite of that dashing uniform, they may dismiss any such ideas from their pretty heads.

We know it is contended in some quarters that unless she has had at least three years' experience in a general hospital, a woman would be of no use in a military hospital in time of emergency, and we suppose that is the reason why no steps bave been taken to enrol the valuable reserve which is available among the Nursing Sisters of the St. John Am bulance Brigade. The argu ment as regards lack of experience is very easily disposed of. If there was anything in it at all, how comes it that men possessing the nursing certificate can be enrolled as first-class nursing orderlies and given sptcial facilities for extra training in the military hospitals? It must not be forgotten that many of the women holding the nursing certificate and enrolled in the brigade undertake nursing amongst the sick poor, and they are constantly engaged in public duty where they are brought face to face with casualties of all kinds. Give them similar advantages such as are now permitted to the men of the Military Home Hospitals Reserve and Sir Alfred Keogh will find he has available a band of earnest and devoted women who will prove valuable auxiliaries to the regular army nursing service.

OUR ESSAY COMPETITION. - Owlng to the large number of entries we are unable to declare the results until next issue.

• E

BOG US AMBULANCE COLLECTOR. - The bogus fire brigade collector is not so often heard of now, thanks in a great measure to the efforts made for his extinction by the N.F.B. U. Some of these gentry are disposed to adopt the role of ambulance collector. Dr. Cassidi, of Derby, writing to the local press, calls attention to the fact that several gentlemen have recently been victimised by some unauthorised person soliciting financial help for the Derby Division of the St. John Ambulance Brigade. Instructions have now been given that any person canvassing for subscriptions must wear uniform, and be accompanied by another member also in uniform. We do not think that this will effectually stop the fraud if these gentry are determined to pursue it. Your bogus fire brigade collector is invariably in uniform, secondhand kit is not expensive. We would suggest to Dr. Cassidi that his better course is to provide his official collectors with an authorisation signed by himself, stating that they are the accredited <;:ollectors, -

The Grand Priory of the Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem in England.

AT the last meeting of the Chapter the following promotions and appointments were passed in recognition of am bulance services ;-

Selected as HonorarJ I SerVi1tg Brotlzet,s.

Staff Surgeon H. Montagu Knapp, RN.

Amos Howard, Preston.

Arthur Eddison, Leeds.

Enrolled as Honorary Associates.

Edwin Pulleine Pickersgill, M.B., N.E. Railway Centre.

David Rorie, M.D., J.P., Fife Co.

John William Springthorpe, M. D., Victoria

Arthur Erdsworth Broster, F.Re.S., L.Re.S. (Edm. ), Wirksworth.

Colonel W. H. Bull, Y.D., F.Re.S., North Buck s Centre.

Awarded the Velllt11Z Vote of Tlzalths.

e. J. Thompson, M Re.S., Isle of \vight.

Herbert Skipworth, M.R.e.S., Lougbborough, Mount Sorrel Branch.

H. e. Else, Sheffield.

Robert D. Muir, M.R.e.S., London, per S.E. and e. Railway Centre.

Fred Bottomley, Tankersley, Barnsley.

S. Lloyd Harvey, Radstock Branch.

Lieut.-Colonel Harold Hendley, I.M.S., Indian Branch.

The Rev. George Macalister, M.A., D.D., Indian Branch.

Major Dhanpat Rai, e. I.E., Commandant of the Imperi al Service Transport Corps at J aipur.

Awarded the Stiver jJ1'edal.

Major Caspar Robert Laurie, Assistant-Commissioner NO.2 District, S.J.A.B.

James Dyson Howarth, 2nd Officer, Rochdale Corps.

William Samuel Rees, 3rd Officer, Rochdale Corps.

John Richardson, Corporal, Rochdale Corps.

Robert Holt, Private, Rochdale Corps.

John Albert Sidney Coleman, 2nd Ambulanee Officer, Toynbee Hall, NO.7 Divison, Metropolitan Corps.

William Henry Beeton, 1st Class Sergeant, Toynbee Hall, NO.7 Division, Metropolitan Corps.

Miss M. e. Coulcher, late Lady Superintendent Nursing Division, Ipswich Corps.

Eugene Edward Street, District Superintendent of Stores, NO.2 District, Chichester.

Harry Gordon States, 1 st Officer, Hon. Secretary and Treasurer, Chichester Division.

George Green, Superintendent, Market Harboro' Division.

William Tooth, Sergeant, Market Harboro' Division.

George Thomas Cooper (Superintendent, No. 13 (G.N. Railway) Division, Metropolitan Corps.

Henry Edward Hankin, 1st Ambulance Officer, No. 13 (G.N. Railway), Division, Metropolitan Corps.

Percy John Sebright, 2nd Ambulance Officer, No. 13 (G.N. Railway), Division, Metropolitan Corps.

William Frederick Wingfield, 1st Class Sergeant, No. 13 (G.N. Railway), Division, .\1etropolitan Corps.

Alfred Badcock, Sergeant, No. 13 (G.N. Railway), Division, Metropolitan Corps.

March, 1909 · -FIRST

P.C. George Clark, MANCHESTER CITY POLICE.

By the courtesy of the Editor of the Police Review, we are able to reproduce a of P.e. G.eorge Clark, who has the distinction of bemg the first police to receive the vellum vote of thanks from .the Grand Pnory of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem m England.. Pr.evious to joming the he for some m the service of the Cheshire Lmes Railway Co., a.nd It was 'n connection with ambulance work on that I<ulway that Clark first became with the His squad was in w1l1n1l1g the. first. prIze the first competition organised by the Cheshlre Lmes Railway

Superintendent

The Suoerinlendent and 21 Constables also hold Labels. few who do not possess certificates are those who have only recently joined the Division.

P.e. Clark has been very successful at ambulance competitions with police of his own In 18 97 his team won .first pnze m. the at the Manchester City Police Sports, thiS success b:-lng repeate? the following year. In 1900 the team tramed by P.e.

Co., on which occasion prizes were presented by his Grace the Duke of Westm1l1ster. .

Mr Clark ioined the Manchester Oty Police. on J 10th', 1896, and attached to the D. DIVlswn, shortly afterwards being appomted am 1l1structor. At that time very few men h.eld the ce.rtlficate, and th edallion but since WIth the aSSistance, encourage e and 'of the Chief Constable, Superand Officers of the Divisi.on, P.e. Clark. has been able to procure and maintain a state in ambulance work from the men by him. y few indeed have failed in the exam1l1atwl!s after pass1l1g throu h P.e. Clark's hands. The foll.owmg t3.ble the ber of officers and 111 the D DIVISIon holding certificates and medalhons ;-

Clark were the winners "of Open Competition. for "M 1Ioy" Challenge Cup, whIch they untlJ 19 5· was, however, no competition. for. thiS cup 19°2. In 19°3 his team won the first prIze m a at Manchester, open to all. Police. In add! twn to these successes many second pnzes have been won.

In the course of his career P.e. Clark has .mal!Y times b Plimented by medical men for the skill displayed een com " d On one by him in rendering first aid to mJure persons. 'd occasion a surcreon of the Man chester Royal Clark had a man's life by smartly stoppmg e bleeding from a severed artery. k' d t the

On October 29th, 1908, P.e. Clar receive a hands of Councillor Edward Holt (the Lord Mayor of Manchester) the vellum vote of thanks of the Order.

N.E.R-The annual competitIOns with this railway are now in progress. On Saturday, March 6th, at the Railway Institnte, York, the competing teams from the York District met to decide the issue. Six teams faced the judges, Dr. E. J. Burnett, of Saltburn, and Dr. M. Caldwell, of Brotton. The tests set were of a most practical character and the work of the competing teams was of an exceeding high standard. The result was declared as : Carriage and Wagon Shops, York (No.3 team), 273 POInts out of a possible 300; Carriage and Wagon Shops, York (No. team)-present holders -262; Scarborough, 244; Old Station Staff, York, 243; Naburn, 238; Carriage and Wagon Shops, York (No.2 team), 19 2

Stockton was the rendezvous for the teams from the Middlesbrough District, and on March 7th seven teams faced the judge. As a result of a keen contest West Hartlepool secured premier honours with their No. team, the second place falling to their No.2 team, and the third position was secured by the home team, Stockton

L. &. N. W. R- The Annual Competitions in connection with this railway are now in full swing. As in previous years the Directors again offer prizes for each member of the first, second and third teams in each district where not less than eight teams compete, and a further prize for the best individual man in each district competition.

The Competition in connp.ction with the Liverpool District took place at the Lime-street Station on March 3rd. Sixteen teams representing various departments in Liverpool, Birkenhead, Widnes, Garston, Ellesmere Port, and Stafford took part, the Judges being Dr. T. Moore Dawson and Dr. Llewellyn Morgan. At tl:1e conclusion of a very close and searching examination the Judges awarded the premier position to Birkenhead Dock (Goods Department) the second position being secured by Stafford (Loco Department), and the third by Park Lane (Goods Department).

The individual prize was awarded to W. E. Harrison, a member of the team from the Coaching Department from Lime-street. A member of the Park Lane team (George Lawrence) proved a strong competitor, being only one point behind Harrison.

Edgehill and Park Lane tied for third place, but on being through a further test the position was secured by Park Lane.

At the conclusion the prizes were presented by Mr. S H. Hunt (District Goods Manager), and on the initiative of Mr. L. W. Horne, a hearty vote of thanks was accorded the Judges for the kind and careful way in which their duties had been carried out.

The following teams met at Rugby on March 2nd.Northampton Castle, Nuneaton, Peters borough, Rugby, Nos 1 and 2 teams; Castlethorpe, Nottingh'lm, Weedon, Colwlck, Northampton Bridge-street, Hallaton, Loughborough, Roade, Higham Ferrers, Wellingborough, Rugeley The Judges were Surgeon Colonel Sidebottom

A l D . - March, 19 0 9.

(Shropshire Regiment) an d C h ief Superintendent Fred Gilbert (Birmingham Corps, S.J.A.B.).

At the close of the competition Northampton Castle was first with 265 points, N.uneat?n second .with 239i points, and Peterborough thIrd WIth 239 POInts The individual prize was awarded to A. Lloyd, of the Northampton Castle team. The prizes were subsequently presented by Miss Pearse, of Overstrange Grange, who also gave five additional prizes for efficiency to men who did not receive prizes from the Railway Company.

It is interesting to note that A. Lloyd is the popular young sergeant of the Northampton Corps, S.J.A B., who the Dewar Shield for his corps. We wish him luck when he goes forward for the final at Manchester. It is a well known axiom that it is not in mortals to command success, but of this we are assured, Sergt. Lloyd has worked to earn it.

The Annual District Competition in connection with the Watford District took place on March 3rd, and was held at Watford. There were fourteen teams entered, including those from London. The Judges were Dr. C. E. Goddard, of Wembley, for the individual and practical work, and Colonel Lees-Hall for the stretcher work. The following teams competed-Bletchley, Broad-street A and B teams, Camden A and B teams, Euston A and B teams, Haydon-square, Maiden-lane, Watfoni, Willesden and Wolverton.

The maximum number of marks which could be obtaintd was 300, and Bletchley secured first position with the very fine of 284 points, Wolverton A coming second with 227, and Camden A third with 275. The individual prize was awarded to W. J. Brown, of the Bletchley team. The prizes will be presented at Manchester on the occasion of the .Final Competition for the Company's Challenge Shield, on March 26th.

The Birmingham and South Staffordshire District Competition was held on Wednesday, March loth, at the Co-Operative Rooms, Coventry. Twenty-one teams entered the competition, but preliminary contests reduced the total to 16 teams. Dr.Phillipps, of Walsall, and Dr. Taylor, of Brierley Hill, were the judges, the former taking the practical and questions, while the latter took the stretcher work. The test in the stretcher work was as follows ;-

" A man cleaning windows on a ladder is discovered insensible on the ground in an enclosed yard entirely surrounded by walls and buildings. He is suffering from temporal arterial bleeding on right side, and right thigh fractured. Render first aid and take to hospital and place on bed."

Part B, "Individual Injuries," and Part C, "Questions," embraced many severe tests of ability and knowledge. The result was as follows :-

I, Wolverhampton (Goods), 28 I 2, Walsall (Permanent Way), 245; 3, Bushbury Loco, 236. Maximum num ber of points 300

The contest was keenly watched during the day by many first aid students, and a very keen interest was taken also by the District Superintendent, R T. Morcom, Birmingham, and T. Can by, Esq., District Engineer, Walsall,

It was clearly evident that a marked improvement characterised the work, as no less than six men gained the maximum marks (or the best all round man, three of which belonged to the Wolverhampton team of Messrs. Dunton, Burton and Jackson, while W. Weekes, of Bushbury, carried off the individual prize.

Wolverhampton team represents the Birmingham and

March, 190 9 -F IR ST

South Staffordshire District at Manchester on March 26th, at the Loco Final.

The Oldham District competitions were held at Huddersfield on February 24th. Eleven teams competed, and after a keen contest the results were as follows :-1 st, Buxton, 249 marks; 2nd, Saddleworth, 241; 3rd, Leeds, 235 4th, Copley Hill, 234. The maximum number of marks was 3 00 STRETCHER TEST.

Compound fracture of left leg just below the knee, with arterial bleeding.

Fracture of right ribs, with spitting of blood. Wound on scalp with bleeding above the right ear.

INDIVIDUAL INJURIE S

1. Asphyxia by drowning.

2. Severe crush of right foot.

3. Wound of forehead, with concussion of the brain.

4. Compound fracture of left patella.

5. Fractured fingers of left hand.

QUESTIONS.

1. Describe briefly the circulation of the blood.

2. What difference is there between the first aid treatment of any injury of the stomach, as compared with that for injury of the liver, spleen or intestines?

3. What is the object of first aid treatment of fractures, and how would you deal with one? What would you do in doubtful cases?

4. What is the treatment for hcemorrhage?

5. What would you do if you found a person banging by the neck ar.d unconscious.

Drs. Divine and Laird (who acted as judges), in their report of the competitiun, said they were pleased to see the promptitude with which the work was done, especially in the case of hcemorrhage, but one team omitted to make use of a tourniquet. A seriously injured patient, especially one with violent bleeding, should not be left alone for a single instant; one team forgot this precaution, and the patient was quite unattended for an appreciable interval. Several members of the teams tied granny knots instead of reef knots. Ambulance students should assiduously practice tying reef knots until this becomes a habit, and a granny in consequence impossible. One team mistook the nature of the injury, and treated the thigh instead of the leg. Shock on the whole did not the attention that one would desire, and only one team offered to deal with the condition of collapse. A few teams omitted to examine the patient in transit; and only one team told the examiner that they would send for a doctor. Another team lost marks by failing at first attempt to place the patient comfortably in bed. In any competition attention to these points will guard against marks being lost.

The questions on the whole were answered intelligently and well, though one could hardly escape the conviction that much was by rote. If an ambulance student thoroughly understands a question he should have no difficulty in expressing himself in his own language. The first question (on the circulation of the blood) was well answered, though some failed to complete the circle, and others confounded the function of the right and left side of the heart. Three quite failed to appreciate that in injury of the stomach nothing whatever should be given by the mouth. The third question relating to fractures was very well answered indeed; and the same may be said of the fourth question on the treatment of internal hcemorrhage, though four failed to indicate that t.hey would. seek medical aid at once. In the fifth questIOn, regardIng a person found hanging by the neck and unconscious, three failed to appreciate the importance of taking the stress off

the rope before cutting, and one forgot to mention he would free the neck.

In the practical work the treatment of asphyxia by drowning was well carried out, and it was noticed with satisfactic)fi that several adopted Schafer's method of artificial respiration. When Silvester's method was employed a few had trouble with the tongue. One man read the card as apoplexy instead of asphyxia by drowning.

In the treatment of a severe crush of the right foot two mem bers lost marks by treating the wrong side of the body, only three appreciated that such an injury implies a considerable degree of shock, and seven failed to indicate to the examiner that they would seek medical aid.

One member treated the injury by simply applying a triangular bandage over the boot.

1n treating a wounded forehead accompanied by concussion two failed to treat for insensibility, and only three spontaneously satisfied the examiner that they would caution such a patient not to resume employment even after apparent recovery without the sanction of a medical man.

The treatment of a compound fracture of the patella was excellent, though three members treated the wrong side :of the body, and two failed to dress the wound.

In treating fractured fingers 0f the left hand, marks were lost for treating the wrong hand, tor inattention to shock, for failure of supporting the injury in a large arm sling, and for want of indicating that medical aid would be secured.

SOUTH EASTERN & CHATHAM RAILWAY - The Annual Group Competitions for the Challenge Cups and Prizes offered by the Directors of the South Eastern and Chatham Railway are now in progress, and the results of Group 4 and 3 are appended:

GROUP 1.

Held at Victoria on Tuesday, March 16th. Judges, Col. Lees Hall, RA.M.C., and Dr. Forbes, London.

Maximum number of marks 400.

No. Team Marks.

1. Superintendents of Line Office

2. Ash ford Works 339

3. Victoria 337

4. Cannon Street.. 336i-

5. Ashford Running Sheds 336

6. Sittingbuurne No.

No. T eam 7. Herne Hill 8. Canterbury 9. Hawkhurst

10. Beckenham 1I. Red Hill No. 12. Ramsgate No. I 13. Battersea 'Works

GROUP 2.

Marks. 3 14 308 299i 297 .. 266

Held at PaddOCk Wood on Friday, March 12th. Judges, Drs. J. M. Carvell, London, and M. Sealy, Paddock Wood. Maximum number of marks 4 00

No. Team Marks. No. Team Marks.

1. Sevenoaks N,). I II. Ashford Station No. I 261

2. Newington 12. Hastings " 0 I 255

3· Faversham No. 29 8 13· Reading Traffi c 239!

4· Hither Green No.1 287 14· Bexhill 239

5· Broadstairs 284 IS· Plumstead 23 8

6. Stewart's Lane Ashford Wagon Shop 23 8

7· Folkestone Harbour 17· Ramsgate No.2 228 1

8. Deal 27 8 18. Red Hill NO.2

Re adi ng Loco 27 8 19· Doyel' IIarbour No.

10. Ashford Joiner s

GROUP 3·

Held at Hastings on March loth I Ith. Judges Drs H. Oliver, Lydd, and P. MIllar-Waugh, Rye.

Maximum number of marks 4 00

We understand that nearly 900 tickets have been disposed of for the Annual Dinner at the : Crystal Palace on Wednesday, March 24th next. On this day the Competition for deciding the Team to represent the Company In the Inter-Railway <;ompetition will be held at the Crystal Palace, commencmg at 10 a.m. Tickets to view may be had of the Centre Secretary.

First Aid and Life SR Ying in Mines.

THE following is an abbreviated report of a paper which was read at the recent First Aid Congress at Frankfort by Mr . Albert M. Oppenheimer, Assistant Han. Secretary to'the British Committee.

quite recently very little, if anything, had been to secure prompt first aid to the injured in mmmg accidents or .to effectually succour those shut in by underground explosIOns, by fire, by flooding, to help those overtaken by the sudden development of an irrespirable atmosphere or to assist those faced by any other of the many underground da.ngers. Until comparatively recent years, am bulances In connection with mining were practically unknown-not altogether surpnsmg perhaps, w?e? it is remembered that the St. John Ambulance ASSociatIOn, one of the first of its kind, itself dates only from the year 1877.

We re ad in Haydn's dictionary of dates that about a thousand lives are lost annually in Great Britain alone in mmmg accidents (the latest figures are I,245), how great then must. b e t?e of requiring first aid treatment for from which complete r e covery IS often only pOSSIble If the first aid is really skileven under the most favourable circumstances, first atd must unfortunately only too often remain the last aid that can be given.

AI D.- March, 19 0 9.

The Minutes of the Evidence t:1ken in 1906 before the Royal Commission on Mines bears eloquent and melancholy testimony to the fact that at present the average miner in Great Britain is not cared for as he should be. A glance at the to the r6 [ paragraphs composing the Blue Book, whIch embodies the elaborate and detailed evidence taken before the Commission, will convince the most sceptical, that energetic steps ;11uSt at once be taken, more effectivel y to face the almost num berless perils that still beset the miner, more particularly the coal miner. It is impossible to read the minutes of the evidence given by selected experts on the subject of mining and its perils without feeling strongly moved to agitate for all that can be done by science or otherwise to reduce as far as possibl e these perils, and effectively to assist in reoucing the horrors of accidents. It ought not to be a private pleasure it is a public duty of every nation, the very life of which depends upon the miner's work, to devise for the miner every relief and succour possible.

The practical help that can be given is of different kinds. Scientists indefatigably strive to discover new possibilities in tbe realms of science, while the min e r benefits from their labours pressed into his service eith e r pri vately by the care of a patern'll management, or if th a t fail, by the will of the legislature The most practical help perhaps of all that can be given is the help of miner to miner; once he has been taught the advantages of thes e simple devices which are put at his disposal by societits engaged upon the work of first aid. Miners, as a class, ar e said to be more conservative than any other body of men and they are notoriously slow in adopting suggestions from without. If they are disinclined to accept innovations and even opp.nly resent them, that can afford no excuse for not continuing with all possible zeal the work for their enlightenment and their relief, which in the end they may g ratefully acknowledge.

Germany, indeed, has set at least, in one part of its Fatherland a bright and splendid example. The Blu e Book referred to above, contains in an appendix an interesting report of a visit made to the Westphalian Coal Fields by three experts, examined by the Commission, viz. : Dr. T. S. Haldane, F.R.S., Mr. Henry Hall, I.S.0., and Mr. W. N. Atkinson. The object of this visit was to study the following subj e cts referred to in the Report of th e Royal Commission :- The watering of dusty roads in collieries with a view to preventing explosions; the ventilation of mines; the provisions made for rescue and ambulance appliances; the testing of lamps explosives and electrically driven machines, in connection with risks of explosions: there was furthermore an enquiry into a well-known ?liners' disease-ankylostomiasis-and finally an enquiry Into the system of baths. Without going into tedious details, it may suffice to state that the Westphalian Coal Fields were found in many respects to constitute a model establishment. The provision made for the supply of am bulanr::e and rescue appliances were found excellent. The Mining Board rules in these Westphalian collieries that in every colliery there shall be a perfectly eqUIpped ambulance room furnished with everything necessary for first aid and the treatment of minor injuries; at least one person thoroughly trained in givmg first aid must always be present. The rules require also that stretchers shall be available at suitable points underground and an ambulance carriage provided above ground.

Although it would appear that the supply of an apparatus for penetrating irrespirable air is not compulsory among the proviSIOns made to carry out an expedition of rescue in all the collieries visited by the Commissioners

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these appliances were found to exist; men were available, regularly trained in the use of these contrivances, which are sometimes the only means of saving life and for preventing the disastrous spread of underground fires. Various types were in use in the different mines, such as the Shamrock, Draeger, the Pneumatogen and other kinds, not forgetting the Gierdorf.

At the Bochum School of Mines it appears that the students are thoroughly instructed in the lIse of all kinds of rescue appliances. How far the paternal care extends may be best judged by the fact that, for the purpose of instruction there is provided a tank or well containing about a hundred feet of water, representing the waterfilled shaft of a mine; about half of the students are instructed in diving and how to act in case of flooding. By the regulations in force on this admirably organised German Coal Field, every colliery was found to provide a proper building with suitable arrangements for all the men underground to change their clothing on going and leaving off work.

It will be perceived from this somewhat imperfect sketch of of the Wesphalian Coal Fields that there are mines managed and equipped as they should be. It is not surprising under these circumstances a German rescue party should have been able to render such exceptional service to the French miners entom bed at Courrieres. The enthusiasm with which this rescue party was received was a well-earned tri bute to the German system. For the time being the needs of suffering humanity imprisoned underground tended to wipe away racial differences existing on the surface.

How different from this is the picture presented by the evidence taken before the Royal Commission above referred to-as far as Great Britain is concerned. The witnesses examined before the Royal Commission were all men of ripe and comprehensive experience, and their standing precludes all idea of mere sensationalism; still less of panic-mongering.

Throughout the pages of this report, we have ever and anon lurid flashes of the many horrors that encompass the working miners throughout their whole career; the dangers are the same as elsewhere, and the triumphs of science over nature are incomplete unless they benefit all under similar circumstances. Yet if we compare without bias our existing system wilh the German system, how very little has been done to secure for the million or so British miners first aid generally or rescue appliances in particular. General rules already require, it is true, that where persons are employed underground am with splints, &c., shall be kept at the mine ready for use in the event of accident. It seems, moreover, that in 1904 the Secretary of State issued instructions to mining inspectors desiring them to promote ambulance classes among all persons employed in mining; but before the Commission it was frankly admitted that the organisation of any systematic provisions for rescue work was a new thing, comparatively speaking. Mr. Pickering, in the Yorkshire district (where that gentleman had privately taken the matter up) seems then to have been the only man who had seriously and systematically devised a working plan.

In reply to the question: Have you a Rescue Corps in every district? Mr. John Gerrard, H. M. Inspector of Mines in the Manchester and Ireland district, said that there was only one Rescue Station in the United Kingdom, viz., at Tankersley Colliery, South Yorkshire.

Mr. Garforth, at N orman ton, Altoft's Colliery, had provided an experimental gallery. This gallery had been visited by a committee of coal-mine owners "as a result of

AID.- 135

many meetings in Manchester," and Mr. Gerrard held out some hope that very shortly a similar station would be established in Lancashire.

Mr. Walker, H.M. Inspector of Mines for York and Lincoln district, stated in his evidence that th e ambulance and splints arrangements were satisfactory, but that as recently as 1905 he found that the number of men who possessed the necessary knowledge of how to use these things was very limited; the numb er of such men did not exceed 4,000 out of a total of I I3,000 men. He had since, however, it is pleasing to note, himself organised an ambulance league and arranged competitions from which he anticipated a great increase in the num ber of persons properly instructed in rendering first aid.

In reply to the question as to whether he considered that sufficient ambulances were provided? the witn ess replied, emphatically, "No." "I think," he added, "there is room for improvement; carriages should be kept available in cases where men have to be taken any distance. "

Now this would seem to imply that in a few instances the so-called am bulances are mere makeshifts, or, worse still, not in existence at all. Does not this evid e nce clearly indicate that the whole of the existing arrangements under the present system are in need of some drastic revision?

The evidence taken before the Royal Commission teaches us in what direction immediate improvem e nt is needed to render first aid easier, or even possible.

The first plea must be for uniformity in the man agement of British mines on the prevention of accidents side. Special attention must be paid to the appliances necessary for first aid. Many manag@rs of collieri es think th e y ar e doing all that is necessary by having just a stretch e r underground at the bottom of the shaft, instead of having se veral stretchers at various points underground in the workin gs. The points where tht.se stretchers are located must be notified, so fully notified that they ca n be easily and rapidly found in the excitement cons equent up on an accident.

At the present time it is more often the custom to find that the am bul::tnce material is frequently kept in d irt y condition in some out-of-the-way cabin on the surface ; if an accident occurs the injured man is bandaged up with dirty shirts, handkerchiefs, etc. Th e proper use of clean antiseptic dressings is unknown in too many cases. With such materials no first aid, however cleverly appli e d, can fulfil its real purpose. A clean supply of ambulance material is as necessary as a generous su?ply of stretchers.

Quite apart from the intermitteI:1t supply of stretch e rs and ambulance material, a central rescue station should exist in every mining district; if the district be a pa rti c ularly extended one there should be central stations on th e basis of certain maximum areas-possibly fixed in proportion to the approximate num ber of miners engaged.

(To be continu ed.)

An International Fire Tournament, Life Saving and Am bulance Demonstrations, Rescue and Fire Prevention Congress is projected to be held in London in 19 10 3' IE

Friday, May 7th, has been by H.R.H. the Princess of Wales for the presentatIOn at the Portman Rooms of the shields and pri zes awarded by the St. John Association, in connection with th e InterRailway Competition, and the S.J.A.B. " Dewar" Competition.

Brevities.

IN a paper submitted to the Midland Institute of Mining Engineers by Sergt. A. Winborn, who has charge of the Tankersley Rescue Station, the author observed that at times of accident the average miner was always ready to risk his life in an attempt to save other lives. At the Hamstead disaster, probably the most severt" test to which any rescue apparatus had ever been subjected, scores of the local miners begged to be allowed to descend the mine, although it was repeatedly explained that five minutes underground at that time meant certain death to the ordinary unprotected mortal. That was convincing proof that we had in this country the finest material from which to recruit men for rescue work. The difficulty lay in convincing such men of the value of the rescue apparatus, and the necessity of being trained to its use in order that they might qualify themselves for what was, in the fullest sense, a noble and self-sacrificing work, and of the utter futility of trying to do any good on such occasions without apparatus and training. Convince the men of this fact, and much will have been accomplished towards getting them to take an intelligent and interest in the subject. Besides being very brave, the average miner is very conservative. The method of effecting a rescue by means of sheer muscular force and daring, without the aid of scientific apparatus, appeals to him most. Miners have a dislike for anything " new fangled," and, consequently they view the advent of the rescue apparatus with certain feelings of distrust, and it is received into their midst with obvi0us reluctance. Nevertheless, once they realise from personal experience in the practice gallery the true value of an apparatus, they enter into the study of it wholeheartedly, practice with great zeal, and speedily acquire wonderful confidence in its use.

* * *

THE men and women who give up a considerable portion of their time to :;tudy first aid do so, as a rule, says the M edical Press, with the entirely unselfish desire of benefitting their fellow-creatures, and it is certain if they looked for fee or reward for their efforts they would find themselves almost uniformly disappointed. It is all the more satisfactory, then, to be able to record that in the case of one man who by his knowledge of ambulance work, was instrumental in saving a fellow-workman's life, has been rewarded. The incident occurred at the Tredegar Company's power-house at Pochin Colliery, some two months ago, a workman coming into contact with a live wire and being nearly electrocuted. Fortunately a man named Joseph Marsden was at hand) and by performing artificial respiration he was able to restore the patient, and in recognition of this act his fellow-workmen subscribed and presented him with a gold medal. When the small amount of practical good done by the ambulance classes held throughout the land is commented on, it is well to

record incidents of this kind, and of their appreciation by those most immediately concerned.

* * *

THE indifference shown by a section of slate quarreymen to ambulance work among themselves was commented upon at an inquest held at Llanberis, touching the death of Abel Thomas, who, according to medical evidence, succumbed to hc.emorrhage consequent upon a fracture of the leg.

A witness of the accident said, in reply to Mr. G. J. Williams (his Majesty's inspector of mines), that none of the workmen in the vicinity at the time understood anything about ambulance work. The witness, however, carried the unfortunate man in his arms to a place of safety from a further fall of rock.

Mr. Williams observed that there was need for the quarrymen of Llanberis and elsewhere tu learn ambulance work, and this is a case in point of the importance of first aid.

Dr. Mills Roberts said that the man died in the quarry hospital the day after the accident. Life might have been saved if there had been somebody immediately on the spot to check the flow of blood. He had preached and lectured much on first aid work. He conducted four classes.

The coroner (Mr. Pentir Williams) regretted he should have been called a second time to hold an inquest in the same quarry within a week. The quarryman's occupation was a dangerons one at all times. He thought that every young quarryman ought to be compelled to undergo a course of am bulance work, as he was convinced it would be the means of saving many lives.

March, 1909.

S'JOHN A,MBUll\NCt

No. District (Metropolitan Corps.)

BROMLEY. - One of the most go-a-head Divisions of the Metropolitan Corps is undoubtedly ? or Bromley Division. Formed in 1896, at the InstIgatIOn of the late Webster Lucke, who was the first superintendent, it from the first gave evidence of the intention of the promoter to make it go. On the death of Mr. Lucke there were some pessimists who said that with?ut that man's fostering care-for he was a splendId orgamser - lt would fall to the ground, but they had reckoned without the men whose motto is " Invicta," and they had reckoned without the popular and enthusiastic hon surgeon. Dr. Yolland is one of those medical men who has proved the value of first aid, not only to the individual but to the munity and much of his little leisure is devoted to aldmg the pro'gress of the movement in which he takes so keen and active an interest. For some years he has held the dual position of Honor.ary Surge?n and Superintendent, resigning the latter appomtment thIS year on the acceptance of the office by Mr. Healey.

The members of the Bromley Division do not the social side of life, and their annual earned out each year by those well-known entertaIners! Messrs. Maskelyne and Devant, is well hearIng. The entertainment as usual took place thiS year at the Headquarters, the St. Luke's Institute, Bromley Commo!l' on Monday, February 22nd. was a crowded audle?ce, which frequently expressed Its approval of the vanous items t>resented, that. in n? unmeasured terms. The l.D.K. Minstrel QUIntet 10 theIr choruses .and song? were much appreciated. There was a capItal selectIon of animated pictures, Mr. Newport and Mr. Stanley, b.oth the I. D.K., caused roars of laughter, the first ":lth burlesque as a Prima Donna, and the second With. hIS humorous stump speech. Perhaps the most popular Item in the programme, in which all was good, was Mr. Walter Graham with his "Living Marionettes." It was n.early eleven o'clock before the curtain fell, and the thoroughly satisfied, departed one. and all agreeIng that they had had a good concert; that It was for a good cause, and they hoped the financial result would be good.

During the interval Hon. Surgeon Yollan? thanked the audience for their attendance, gave a .bnef account of the history of the division since ItS formatJOn. After a brief allusion to the appointment of Mr. Healey to the Superintendency of the Division, he referred .t? the enrolment of members of the Division in the MIhtary Home Hospitals Reserve.

With regard to then work, they some 800 cases during the thirteen years .of theIr and they made no distincti?n bet.ween nch and poor, whIle were ready to give theIr services at all hours of the day OJ night. Dr. Yolland instanced the of one case from Keston to a London hospital, and sald they made no charge; They did all their work In conclusion he emphasised the fact that dUrIng the thIrteen years

Al D.- 137

they had been in existence they had not had a single complaint of any kind, they had always been ac corded welcome thanks.

TOYNBEE HALL DIVISlON.-The annual social evening of this division was held the 17th of the drawing-room of the Hall bemg crowded With members and their friends.

Opportunity was taken during the proceedings to present a testimonial subscribed for by present and past members, to the late Mr. E. J. Kim ber. gift took the form of a handsome oak bu.reall, and .111 making the presentation Mr. W. L. P. (the. semor private) spoke of Mr. l?ng division, the regret at hls reslgnatJOn and of the long service he had rendere? as theIr. chIef, and In conclusion expressed their good for hIS Future.

In acknowledging the gift, Mr. KImber sald how u:;eful the desk would be to him, and thanked the members for their kind thought and good wishes. He deeply regretted that business ties had for some time past prevented his regular attendance, and he had felt it unfair to others to continue to hold office, and had therefore severed his connection with the brigade work after having been a member for over seventeen years. He was glad, however that he would still be able to keep in touch with the MR. E. J. KIM BER. division as an hon. member, for he had not lost his interest in first-aid. He valued the experience he had as a? ambulance worker, and urged those present to contmue. theIr ractice and improve their knowledge first ;emem bering the Brigade motto: "Pro hormnum. Musical honours were accorded to Mr. KImber at the conclusion of his speech.

The superintendent,. Mr. H Jones, presented prizes won in the bandagmg competItIOn, 19 08 : to Ptes. Carey, Paxman and W. L. P. S mith ; and ServIce badges (for three years efficiency) to FITst-class Lomas and Newton, Corporals Bower, Rose and KlOg, and Ptes. W. L. P. Smith, Young, Strecher, Kemp, Paxman, Fry, Barlow, Bell, ReId, Jeffnes and Anderson:

The thanks of the division are due to the followlOg I d' d aentlemen for providing a most excellent proa les an fb '. Mrs Statham the Misses Hilda and gramme 0 muslc., . k Mabel Smith, and Messrs. Monkhouse, CurtIS, Clar e, Lait and Statham.

No. 2 District.

FOLKESTONE.-In connection with a fire whIch ed here on February 16th, it is our pleasure to record services rendered by W. of this division, who was the means of savmg the leo a child age 3 years I Huntley on arriving at the scene, ImmedIate y ran u stairs into' the burning room, through the flames and p k d ed the child who was almost overcome smo e an rescu , . h . b th' smoke He carried the child out lOto t e open aIr, him' in the charge of Private Chas. D. Boulter, f h · d' 'on Mr Huntley then returned Lo the also 0 t IS IVISI.· 1 . d . B this time the fire had great y lOcrease , burnmg room. Y . d f b tt as the walls, which were burning, conslste 0 a ens

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covered with stretched canvas. As Huntley could not discover anyone else in there, he picked up the hearthrug and tinally smothered the fire. He was feeling very overcome by the smoke, and could only manage to out, and he was some minutes before he could recover hImself. He found one of the occupants of the house in a state of collapse, and, with the assistance of Private C. D. Boulter, rendered first aid to her.

By this time the fire brigade and Superintendent F. A. Adams, of the Folkestone Division of the Brigade, had arrived.

ISLE OF SHEPPEY.-A concert in aid of the funds of this division was given at the Assembly Room of the Conservative Club on March 3rd. Notwithstanding the inclement weather, there was a fairly large audience, who, judg· ing by the repeated encores, appeared to appreciate the capital programme presented.

During the interval, Supt. J. H. Burrows thanked the audience for their presence, after which a team from the division gave a capital ambulance display, under the Supt. The several cases treated by the men showed how careful had been their training, and they were deservedly very loudly applauded.

No. 3 District.

We understand that the negotIatIOns which were in progress for the Annual District Camp to be held this year in the neighbourhood of Cromer have fallen through, a suitable site not being available. We are pleased to hear, however, that the annual gathering will not be allowed to fall through, as Earl Spencer, with his customary kindness, has promised a site in Althorp Park. We understand that the proposed change of venue has given satisfaction to a large number of tbe members, who would, owing to their duties, have been unable to attend the Cromer Camp.

IpSWICH.- The four divisions comprised in this corps held a combined smoking concert on February 27th, in the Ambulance Hall, under the presidency of Hon. Surgeon A. Cameron Young.

The hall had been tastefully decorated, and in the centre of the table stood the East Anglian Challenge Cup, which is held this year by the First Division Several toasts were given, and a capital musical programme was presented and much appreciated.

During the proceedings a telephonic message was received for the horse ambulance. The call, which was to a case of epilepsey, was responded to, and the patient removed to her own home,

A vote of thanks to Miss Coulcher for the use of the hall brought a most enjoyable evening to a close.

No. 4 District.

PRESTON.- This corps celebrated its majority in January last, and at the annual meeting held on March 3 rd at the White Horse Restaurant, Chief Surgeon Irvin Sellers congratulated the members upon the present high state of efficiency of the corps. Preston was one of the first formed corps in the country, and was about the fourth to be registered at St. John's Gate. During their twentyone years they had witnessed various changes in the organisation of the brigade, but to-day they were more efficient and the pu blic had a higher conception of their duties. If people only realised what the official interpretation of efficiency meant, they would hear less about the non-efficiency of ambulance men.

AI D.- March, 1909.

After paying a high tribute to the Nursing Division and to Lady Supt. Mrs. Howard, to whose untinng efforts its efficiency was mainly due, Chief Surgeon Sellers made a strong appeal on behalf of the Bearer Company, pointing out that they must not fall behind the Territorials in their recruiting for this branch.

It was stated that the corps maintained 3 tirst aid stations in the town, and that in every direction it Continued to till the objects of its existence, viz., the practical application of first aid to those injured either in the streets, mills, workshops, or in the docks, not only throughout the town but also in the surrounding districts.

WHALEY BRIDGE.-A competition in bandaging and home nursing was held here on Wednesday, 23rd, for a handsome silver cup presented by Mrs. Cotton-J odrell. The judging was kindly undertak::n by Dr. Kennedy, of Chapel-en-Ie-Firth, and after II series of keen and practical tests he awarded the cup and medals to a team composed of Mrs. Nuttall, Mrs. Stafford, Miss H. E. Bagshaw, and Miss Amy Harrison.

No. 5 District.

WORKSOP.- There was a full muster on parade at the Royal Hotel on Tuesday, February 23rd, when the members of this division foregathered under the genial presidency of their popular Hon. Surgeon and Supt. (Dr. Helme Montague) to discuss the good fare provided by Mr. and Mrs. Howard on the occasio)O of the annual dinner of the division.

Ample justice having been done with knife and fork, the cloth was cleared and the Chairman gave the loyal toasts, which were right loyally honoured. He announced he had received letters of regret for non-attendance from Sir Frederic Milner and other friends.

The toast of ., The Work sop Division of the St. John Ambulance Brigade was proposed by Dr. Crawford in an eulogistic speech, in which he referred to the good work which the division was doing in the town. It was spendid, from Dr. Montague downwards he had always found them most willing to turn out to any case which might require their assistance. They had had to fight for their position in the town, but they were now recognised as one of its greatest successes.

In responding, Dr. Montague thanked Dr. Crawford for the very kind way in which he had referred to their work in the town. The last year hact been one of steady progress, they had recruited a fine steady lot of men this year, but they must not relax their efforts. Their present strength was 52, but on the occasion of their last inspection the inspecting officer said that a town of the size of Work sop ought to have a corps of at least 100 men. The work done during the past year had been very good, and he had no complaints to make about the attendance. They had been called to 95 cases and had turned out with the van 40 times. Referring to the appointment of Mr. Casson as Second Officer, Dr. Montague said they had been for years without their proper complement of officers, and he thought they might now congratulate themselves on having obtained the services of a gentleman who would prove a very efficient and a great help to them.

After expressing thanks to several gentlemen who had rendered the Division great help for many years past, the Doctor went on to refer to the splendid voluntary service rendered by the men for whom he had the greatest admiration, because they were the only real Volunteers left in the country. They turned out well for camp, considering they

March, 1909. -FIRST

had to pay their own" shot." Last year their railway fare was paid, but this year he was afraid they would have to pay it themselves unless something turned up. There was just a ray of hope, Mr. and Mrs. Inman who had done m'Jch for other Institutions in the town, hoped to give an entertainment, after Easter, to raise the funds to provide the fares. A good deal of the success of the entertainment would depend upon the men themselves.

Subsequently Dr. Montague presented to Corp. Parker, the most efficient man of the year, on behalf of Sir Frederic (the donor), a solid silver inkstand suitably inscribed. In a letter Sir Frederic regretted he was not able to be present to make the presentation, but conveyed his hearty congratulations to Corporal Parker, and wishing the Division success. Dr. Montague said he hoped some gentleman living in the town would come forward and give

Al D.-

Messrs. Joseph Crosfield & Sons' Fire Brigade and Ambulance Corps.

IT cannot be too widely undestood that every employer holds the lives of those who recognise him as their head in his hands, and the apathy of some responsible persons in this matter is something alarming. Safety from fire can never be absolutely insured, but precaution can be taken to minimise its risk. In this direction Messrs. Crosfield & Sons at their large soap works at Warrington have taken every precaution to guard the human lives under their -:are by equipping an up-to-date tire brigade, and they have also established an am bulance corps to ameliorate the sufferings of their employees should they unfortunately meet with an accident.

MESSRS. J. CROSFIELD AND SONS' AMBULANCE CORPS.

a similar prize this year.. He was prepared to give himself, but he felt It was more lIkely to th.e members of the Division if someone unconnected With It offered the prize.

Corporal Parker briefly acknowledged the presentation. Other toast followed and tb2re was a musical programme including selections by the bugle band.

Surgeon-Major Maitland Coffin and e.O's. Dyer and Brooker have been made members of Honour of the Federation des Sapeur Pompiers of the Grand Duche of Luxenburg.

The fire brigade was formed in ] 902, and consists of: 3 officers, 4 senior tiremen, 6 engineers, 23 firemen, 12 salvage men.

Apparatus in fire station conSIsts of: I, 260-3 00 gal. hand-drawn Shand Mason engine oil fired, J, 700-800 gal. horse-drawn Shand Mason engine oil fired, I, 60 ft. "Morris" escape, I, 66 ft. "N urn berg" escape with water 2 hosecarts complete with hose, branches, &c., po.mpler ladder cart complete with all gear, smoke helmet WIth cart complete with all gear, and salvage cart..

All departments are provided WIth land 109 valves, hose and branches, also fire queens, pumps and hose reels, with departmental employes appOlnted to

14° keep them in order and use them when necessary. All parts are in communication with the fire station by means of "break the glass " alarms, and alarm bells ring automatically to call the men to the station, those who are too far away to hear the bells are summoned by a steam hooter which is blown by hand.

The Brigade is affiliated to the N.F.B.U.

Parades and drills are held every Tuesday night, and to accus-

THE BRIGADE WITH ApPLIANCES.

tom the men to be prepared for an outbreak of fire, false alarms are given at unstated times. An outside expert examines and reports on the whole works once a quarter.

In order to encourage efficien:y the firm has given a challenge shIeld for Steamer Wet Drill to be competed for annually by the members of the North-Western District of the National Fire Brigades Union.

-FIRST

March, 1909.

March 19 0 9 , -FIRST

ishes the supply of ambulance material within each box. He has also an electrical alarm by which in severe cases he can instantly summon the assistance he requires. The Division is annually inspected and examined and each year has satisfied the examining officers. The general remarks at the last inspection were :-"A very smart Division." The Division has eleven men who belong to the R.N.A.S.B. Reserve, and nine men belonging to the M.B.H. Reserve. Some years ago the firm presented an

AID - £4T

"ROWDEN" AMBULANCE SHlELD.-The annual competition for this trophy, which was given to': further the progress of am bulance training in the and workshops of Leeds, was held on February 27th in the St. J Schoolroom, Hunslet. The proceedings were pre · SIded over by Dr. A. Ellison, and the judges ,t were Lieut.Colonel Gibbon (Ripon) and Dr. Nicholson (Leeds). Only four teams faced the judges, and after a spirited con-

The Ambulance Division which was formed in the year 1905, now. ra total of 32 men, consIsting of I Honorary Surgeon, First Officer Sergeant, I Corporal, and' 28 ra?k and file. The firm has supplied them with a full am bulance eq uipm ent consisting of wheeled litter, stretchers, surgical haversacs, blankets, splints, bandages, etc. First Aid boxes are placed at different parts of

A DEMONSTRATION IN RESCUE WORK BY THE FIRE BRIGADE.

the Works, and men who belong to the Division are within call of each. The sergeant is stationed in the main Ambulance Station, and makes a tour of inspection each day round the various outlying boxes, and abstracts from each the reports of accidents that occur during the preceding day and replen-

CHIEF FIRE STATION AT MESSR S ]. CROSFIELD AND SONS' WORKS.

ambulance shield to the No. 4 District of the St. John Ambulance Brigade which is competed for annually the Works, three sets of prizes also being given along with the shield, which indicates tbat the Directors of the firm for many years have had the interests of First Aid at heart, and by this means have tried to stimulate the Ambulance Movement in the District.

At the last Levee held by His Majesty the King Capt. G. M. Horn, 3rd Border Regiment, was presented by the Inspector General of the Forces.

test the shield was awarded to the team from John Fowler and Co., and the second to the representatives of Wilson, Mathieson & Co. The Kirkstall Forge (last year's winners) and Taylor Bros, & Co. were third and fourth respectively. In handing the shield and medals to. the winning team, and medals to the second team, Dr. Elltson referred to the keeness which had been displayed and the closeness of the competitors-only one point !':epara.ting the second and third team. All t!le teams had gIven evidence of careful training and had done wonderfully good work.

We are t'n no way responst'ble jor the opt'nions expressed, or the statements made, by Correspondents.-EDITORS.

THE S.J.A.B. AND THE TERRITORIAL FORCES.

DEAR SIR,-Relative to the correspondence which has recently taken place in your columns under the above heading, I should like to say that there are a gr eat number who cordially agree with" Lancashire Lad," and who strongly resent the bragging style of the Chief Superintendent of the Accrington Corps. To read his letter one would almost be led to believe th at the Accrington Corps was the only one which did it's part in the South African war. Chief S upt. ORden's assertion that no man can be efficient under two masters, is certainly open to contradiction, let me quote my own case: I ha ve served for over twenty-five years in the Volunteers and Territor ials continually, as my certificate of service shows, and during that period I have never once been returned as nonefficient. I took the principal part in forming this division, and made myself responsible jointly with another for a large debt for uniforms, etc., and I have acted as the instructor since the formation.

On the occasion of our last Inspection I received high praise from the inspecting officer upon the efficien cy of the division. I have put in ea ch year from 50 to 80 attendances with th.e and the!l I g et as "Lancashire Lad" says, "the dIrty kIck ouL" ChIef Supt. Ogden says they consider themselves quite as goo d as the Territorials, let me tell him that no officer in the Territori al force would write such a letter as he did; it is one which will not do much good to the cause he champions. In this rr.onth's issue I see he is desirous of finding out \"ho " L ancas hire Lad " is? What for I wonder?

To do him some further injury perhaps, besides having hurt his feelings. I rather think so. Thanking you in anticipation. -I am, dear sir, yours sincerely,

"YORKSHIRE L AD ."

DEAR SIR,-Chief Supt. Ogden pred ic ted in his first letter that he would probably bring a hornet's nest about h is head; and now, when one hornet has happened to sting a little he wants to know what particular kind of hornet it is before attempting to remove the sting. I decline with thanks for the simple reason that having been brought up on " lines, I always take advantage of cover; and what better cover does one need than the cover of this excellent J ourna!.

I n his second letter he says he is sorry for my lack of esprit de corps. .it lo?ks nice in print, and sour:d.s well at a. prIze dlstnbutlOn, but If esprit de corps consists of glvmg a detaIled account of what one parti c ular co mpany has done, instead of backing up the case of the members who have done good for both causes, then I,. personally, am not :,orry for my of esprzt de corps My Idea of esprit de corps IS that somethIng more substantIal than the esprit of mutual honour shall be served out to those members.

The latter part of his letter (envy, etc. ) proved to be a source of amusement to several of my brother members who happened to be in the know, because it just happens that I am and have been for years, a consistent admirer of the high state of efficiency of the·Accrington Corps, and tbe tremendous amour:t ()f work done by Chief Supt. Ogden; but I am afraid IS a dlseas.e becolllmg around Accrington that IS ge,nerally att:lbuted to our cousms across the sea; and if my lIttle pm pncks help to check that disease some little good will accrue from these letters.

A I D.·- March, 1909.

In conclusion, Mr . Editor, I do hope and trust that the powers that be will yet see their way to draw up some scheme by which those .who h.ave done goud work, both for the S.J.A.B. and Terntonals, will not be deprived of their service medal.- Yours truly,

"LANCASHIRE LAD."

OPEN AMBULANCE COMPETITIONS.

SIR,-I n reference to the letter in your January number signed "Expectation," I beg to inform him that there are several open competitions, and if he only looks out he can get plenty of engagements for his team. I will just mention a few that have come under my notice -Mountain Ash, on Easter Monday; Nelson, on Easter Tuesday; and there are several others later on.- Yours truly, c. W. G. ALGERNON.

"CRESSWELL

AMBULANCE BRIGADE."

DEAR SlR, - In your is s ue for February you reproduce a photograph of the" Cresswell Ambulance Brigade." I notice the han surgeon and officer are wearing the cross-belt over the right shoulder, is this correct? as in the Metropolitan Corps all officers wear them over the left shoulder.-Yours, truly, A E.

[We have as ce rt ai ned that the officers in the Cresswell Ambulance Division are incorrect; the cross-belt should be be worn over the left shoulder. vVe have no doubt that now that attention has been drawn to the error it will be rectified.ED. "F. A."]

March, 19 0 9 -F IR ST

Col. Sea broke said he had pleasure in moving the adoption of the report as printed, together with the accounts.

e.0 Clarke seconded, and it was carried.

e.0. Lane he di? not wish to hinder the meeting, but he would lIke to pomt out that in the schedule of uniforms it stated that Brigade Surgeons was altered to silver cord in place of epulettes this in his opinion was not taking as much consideration' of the Brigade Su;geon as of ordinary members, and he proposed that these alterations be not retrospective

e. O. Clul e e seconded, and it was carried.

On the of Lieut.-Col. Fox, seconded by Col. HIS Grace the Duke of Marlborough was unammously re-elected President, and the Vice-Presidents were re-elected with the addition of e. O. Scott, of Bradford.

It was proposed by Mr. H. S. Folker and by e. O. Henderson, and carried, that Mr. W. Po we r French be re-elected Hon. Treasurer, and a vot e of thanks was recorded for his past services.

Mr. E. O. Sachs proposed that e.O. Rimmer, of the Luxenburg F.B., be elected an Honorary Life Member of Union, this was seconded and carri ed

The usual vote of thanks to th e Chairman concluded the meeting.

We congratulate Lieut. -Co l. Fox on the manner in he d.ealt .with business of the meeting, and we thmk the tIme It occupIed and the work done constitutes a record.

National P ire Bri g ad es Union.

THE 21 st aJ?nLial general meeting of the Union, presided over by LIeut.-Colonel Fox, was held at the Holborn March roth. The minutes of the previous meeting havll1g been read, the Chairman then dealt with the annual report of the Central Council which he said it was his pleasant duty to ask them to adopt: Those v:ho had the report before them would immediately be conVinced that their Council had done excellent work during the past year. The camp at Scarborough, although marred somewhat by the weather condi tions, was one of the successful and enjoyable they had had, and it was gratIfying to the Council to have messages of appreciation from br igades !n all parts of the country The finances of the Union, oWing to the good offices of e.0. Levy (Chairman of the Finance Committee), were on a sound basis, the same also applied to the Widows' and Orphans' Fund: he then referred to the admirable services rendered to it by e. O. Graham, and he hoped that chief officers a n d their would and raise the fund to £20,000 to sat Isfy the ambItIOn of e.0. Graham. The Chairman then referred to the forthcoming camp at Tonbridge, and he was sure the arrangements they had arrived at with the Tonbridge Council were, perhaps, a new departure, but he did not fear that the camp would be an unsuccessful one, as e.O. B radley was one of the most enthusiastic membe rs of the Unio n , he would do all in his power to make it a success. He concluded by aski n g them to move the adoption of the report.

Previous to the annual general meeting, the Central Council and Widows', Orphans' and Benevolent Fund meetings were held, over the former Cohnel S::abroke presided. e.0. Levy, in presenting the report of the Finance Committee, said they had recomm e n de d th a t Mr. Webster as Assistant Secretary, be paid £10 0 per annum, and £ 150 be paid to the General Secretary for clerical expenses, &c. This was carried.

e.0. Hill wished to mention that the Auditors had called his attention to the loan to the Yorkshire District. They mentioned that it was granted in 1904, and if it was not repaid or part of it, it would be barred by the Statue of Limitation. e.0. Headley Peters moved this be left with the Finance Committee with power to act. This was seconded by e.0. Bell, and carried.

Mr. H. S. Folker, in presenting the report of the Tournament Committee, said at the last meeting of the Council they received a suggestion from e.0. L. Bradley that the annual camp this year be held at Tonbridge. They had approached the Tonbridge Council, but they were not prepared to guarantee the £500, however, they had suggested ;£ 2 50 be guaranteed by them , £250 by the Union, and the whole of the profits or losses be divided between Tonbridge and the Union. The whole of the gate monies and other receipt3 be taken by the Tournament Committee and placed in a joint account. He (Mr. Folker) said it was a most difficult thing to get any town council to place a guarantee of £500, and he thought that the time had now arrived to put the thing on business lines. e.0. Bradley was a competent officer and also engineer of the town, and he had every reason to believe it would be a commercial success.

e.0. Lane said he had pleasure in seconding the report, and he had every reason to believe they had every prospect of an enjoyable and practical camp at Tonbridge, and if this experiment proved a success they would have (Continu ed on page I44).

THE MODERN PHYSICIAN .

By Dr . ANDREW WILSON .

A GR.EAT WORK FOR. AMBULANCE MEN.

THE importance in the National life of the movement kn?wn as "First Aid and Ambulance Study" is now unIversally established, and its usefulness has again and again been strikingly demonstrated.

A that its claim to be an epitome of all that medIcal and surgical knowl edge necessary for Fnst Alders, as well as an authoritative manual of reference on all information relating to Health an d Disease is. therefore a work to be welcomed by all our readers WIsh to study their subject more deeply than is possible from superficial text books.

In "The. Modern Physician," by Dr. Andrew Wilson, fullest space IS devoted to "First Aid" and Am bulance Work. In respect of acc ur acy of description, wealth ?f IllustratIOn, "The Modern Physician" stands Without a rIval amongst the works published on this important subject in the United Kingdom. It is scientifically and reliable without being dull; the name of its edI tor, so long and popularly known as an expositor of Health laws and a teach er of Hy g ien e, is a guarantee of this. This work is absolutely complete as regards Health and Disease, a nd is thoroughl y up-to-date.

As a knowledge of the body in Health is necessar y to the due understandin g of the body when its functions are deran ged by disease, a description of every part of the frame will be found h e re. The skeleton, muscles, digestive system, he a rt a nd lungs, brain and n e rvous system, organs of sense, skin, kidneys and the body's microscopic structure are duly described. In this connecti o n the illustrations are of particular value, the "mannikins" or dummies more e specially; in these the organs are made to oveTlay each other exactly as they do in the human body.

The section d evote d to Hygiene includes the full exposition of the L aws of Health, and special attention is devoted to Physical Culture. Such topics as foods, beverages, air, exercise, cloth ing, sleep, baths, hOlidays, temperament, &c., are treated in this section.

The last volume is especially devoted to the Health of Women, and Dr. Wilson has here been assisted by a number of eminent women ph ys icians. Midwifery and the treatment and Diseases of Infants are here fully dealt with. Sections are devoted to Home Tursing and Invalid Cookery. The section on "The Family Medicine Chest " gives the uses, properties and doses of drugs, whether used as medicine, gargles, ointments, pills, &c.

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ADDRESS.•.

-FIRST

no difficulty in getting other towns to make a si milar e.0. Levy proposed that .£250 be grante.d to the Tournament Committee for the camp Jund. ThIs was also carried.

e.0. Graham presided over the annual meeting of the Widows' and Orphans' Fund. In presenting the report and accounts, he was pleased to record that they had raised a little more money this year, an increase of .£40 over the previous year. The cinematograph entertainments had not proved such a success as they had anticipated, however, he hoped more brigades would take an interest in it in the coming year. He had pleasure in moving the adoption of the report, which was carried..

A question arose as to whether when a brigade contrIbuted '£20 to the fund they were entitled to nominate one or two Life Governors. After a discussion, it resulted that for each .£ro contributed they were entitled to nominate a Life Governor.

By the decease of the late lamented Sir E. Massey Shaw, the Committee selected the Rt. Hon. Lord Londesborough as President of the Fund, the Hon. Sec. then read the following letter from Lord Londesborough: "I shall be happy to accept the position of President, if you will do me the honour to elect me." It was proposed and seconded that Lord Londesborough be elected President, and carried unanimously.

e.0 . Millar proposed, and Lieut.-Col. Fox seconded, the re-election of e. O. Graham as Chairman, which was carried. Capt. G. Horn and Mr. E. B. Podmore were also re-elected on the Committee of Management, and e.0. Hill as Han. Secretary. A vote of thanks to the Chairman concluded the meeting.

The Duke of Marlborough presided at the annual banquet at the Holborn Restaurant, which followed the annual meeting of the Union on March loth. There was a large representative gathering present, including Mr. Guy Pym, Capt. Hamilton, Lieut. Siaden, Lieut. -C ol. Fox, Col. Seabroke and Mr. H. S. Folker. The toast of the evening, "The National Fire Brigade Union," was proposed by Mr. Guy Pym, who in the course of his remarks said that the Union had now achieved its majority, and it was gratifying to sei> the extensive growth it held made since its inception. They had now laid a secure foundation and he looked forward to their progress being continued. It was now ten years since the Duke of had been associated with the N.F.B.U., and they could congratulate themselves to have at their head so able a President. The Duke of Marlborough, on rising to respond, was received with enthusiasm. He remarked that on taking up the annual report it was a pleasure to note the continuous prosperity of the Union. It was one of those great voluntary institutions that had maintained its efficiency on a purely voluntary basis, and it demonstrated the fact to the public of their utility in saving life and property. Referring to the Widows' and Orphans' Fund in connection with the Union, his Grace congratulated Capt. Graham on its progress; h.e also referred to the changes that had taken place dunng the last year. In such a Society and of such magnitude as theirs it was almost impossible to pass through a year without losing by death some of their comrades, and they had to deplore the loss of Sir E. Massey Shaw, Capt. B. Gales, Capt. Bright and others.

The toast of "The Visitors" was proposed in a very able by e.0. Lane, and was responded to by Mr. T. J. Townshend.

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THE HUMAN BODY.

A Shon Accounl of the AnaLomical Arrangemenl of the various Organs of the Human Body.

By OWEN LANKESTER, M.R.C.S.

Illuslrated by a Moveable Figure showing the exacl position and reI alive size of the Organs of the Body. Price 2/ = Net.

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By MARY TRUMAN, M.R.B.N.A.,

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Crown 8vo, paper covers. Price 3d. ALLMAN & SON, Ltd., Publishers, 67, NEW OXFORD STREET, W.C., LONDON.

Aids to Memory for "First Aid" Students.

By L M, FRANK CHRISTIAN, M.B., C,M" EDIN.

l/on. Life iV/embe r o/, and Examiner for, the St. Jolm Ambulance AssociatiO?l.

Second Edition. Revised Throughout. Additional Photographs.

" This valuable little treatise has now been thoroughly revised and brough up to date. "-Find Aid.

"The impr ovement is very marked, both in lext and illuslration the and the additions made ha\'e tended o considerably increase the value of the hook in the hands of the first aider. "-Red Cross and A mbulance News PR.ICE SIXPENCE N£T. - BY POST 7d. Orders for doz. and upwards Post .fi·ree.

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To Our Readers.

As it is the wish and desire of the Proprietors to make this Journal as instructive and entertaining as possible, correspondents in all parts of the country are asked to give it all the help they can.

Superintendents of Corps and Officers of Divisions of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, Officers of the Royal Army Medical Corps (Territorials), the Volunteer Ambulance School of In struct ion, and Chief Officers of Fire Brigades will, it is hoped, do their best to make it known amongsl the members of their re speclive organisations, and will also send for publicalion their official news and notices. Suggestions are invited for Prize Competitions and other matters which will advance the in terest of lhe ] ournal.

We particularly desire to ask our correspondents to be brief and to lhe point in any communications they may send us for publicat ion

Correspondents sending in photos are urgently requesled to state on the back of the same lhe name of lhe individual or lhe Corps or Brigade and give also the name and address of the sender.

We beg to advise our readers lhat we do not pay for photographs or copy sent, unless previously agreed upon in writing.

" First Aid" is published on the 20th of the month.

EDITORIAL.

AFTER an exhaustive enquiry, which has London extended over a period of two years, the Ambulance Committee appointed to consider this Service. all-important question has presented its Report to the Home Office. From a perusal of its pages we find that the Committee sat twentyfour days, examined twenty-two witnesses, and that valuable returns were received from several of the principal London hospitals, and in addition to the investigations which were carried out in London, members of the Committee also visited Liverpool and Manchester and other northern towns, with the object of enquiring into th< working of the ambulance systems in those towns.

Originally it was intended that the scope of the enquiry should be limited to " cases of accident and sudden illness occurring in streets and other public places within the metropolis," but the Committee thought it right, for reasons which they explain, not to exclude evidence with regard to the means of conveyance to hospitals, or elsewhere, of persons lying in their own homes or other private places, in urgent need of medical or surgical treatment.

We must confess that we have not a great deal of

and Fire Services.

[Entered at Stationers' Hall.]

faith in the value of either Royal Commissions or Departmental Committees, experience having taught us that they invariably mean the shelving of a most pressing quest ion for an indefinite period. In the present instance it might be argued that the Home Office would have a good and valied reason for delaying its decision ; for here we have a Departmental Committee consisting of three members only, and yet they found it impossible to arrive at an unanimous conclusion, the result being that we have a majority report by two of the members, recommending that the Metropolitan Asylums board shall be empowered to establish and maintain an am bulance service. While, on the other hand, Sir William Collins, who is responsible for th e minority report, strongly deprecates the idea of entrusting this duty to the Metropolitan Asylums Board, and urges that it is preferable that the service should be placed under the control of the London County Council.

Briefly, the conclusions at which the Committee have arri ved are as follO'vYS :-

""\Ve think it has been abundantly shown that the present system is gravely defective, and results in much preventable detriment and suffering by reason of the transport by unsuitable means of persons who have been injured or taken ill in the streets or other public places, and that the real evil arises from the great use which is made of ordinary vehicles, such as cabs and vans, even in a serious case which require the transport of the patient by the best means possible. We do not regard the wheeled litter as an ideal means of transport for' street cases,' but it is highly serviceable, and apart from the question of speed, in cases of the greatest urgency, fairly meets the requirements for safe, if not altogether comfortable, transport in most classes of cases. We regard a well-constructed and properly fitted rapid ambulance (horsed or motor) as a superior means of transport to the wheeled litter, and we should welcome, if practicable, the complete supersession of all other modes of conveyance by the rapid ambulance. Having regard, however, to considerations of expense, direct, we consider that the wheeled litter should be retained, subject to any improvements of the type of litter that may be possible, and, if necessary, additions to their num ber, and that the existing means of transport of street cases) should be supplemented by the introduction and organisation of a

sufficient number of rapid ambulances to deal with the more serious cases. We think that the introduction of rapid ambulances must in the first instance be tentative and experimental, but should be organised on lines which would enable the system to be extended so as to be capable of dealing with urgent cases other than 'street cases.' "

With one Dart of the Report we are cordially in agreement, that it is advocated that better facilities should be allowed to members of the Metropolitan Police Force to obtain more thorough training in first aid. Sir William Church, in the course of his evidence before the Committee, said, "That from experience gained at St. Bartholomew's Hospital, he considered that the first aid administered by the members of the City Police IS EXCELLENT, and that by the mem bers of the Metropolitan Police is not bad, but not so good as that of the City Police."

This is high praise for the City Police, and it is thoroughly well deserved, and to Mr. F. Gordon Brown, Chief Surgeon to the City Police, much of this credit is due; ever since his appointment to the post he has been most painstaking in his endeavours to ensure that every man of that splendid force shall have something more than a mere smattering of first aid knowledge.

On the whole we must confess that we are somewhat disappointed at the result of this enquiry, we had hoped that a unanimous decisi on would have been arrived at, and that the police-as in the case of the City- would have been recommended as the controlling authority. We feel sure that it would prove much less costly than if entrusted to either the Metropolitan Asylums Board or the London County Council. The police are invariably the first to arrive on the scene of a street accident, and upon them should d e volve the duty of rendering first aid, and the subseqUEnt transport of the patient either to home or hospita l. And to this extent we hope that Mr. Gladstone will disregard the recommendation of the Committee.

As regards the removal of private patients, we think this is quite outside the scope of a Public Ambulance Service, is much better left to such agencies as the St. John Ambulance Association, the Executive of which maintains a most efficient staff, and all the necessary vehicles and appliances for the removal of such cases; in addition to which it must not be forgotten that many Boards of Guardians now have their own staff and vehicles for the transport of paupers within their jurisdiction, and these vehicles may also be hired by ratepayers at a small charge.

BRIGHOUSE.-The annual Fire Brigade and Ambulance Competitions and Gala in connection with the Brighouse Friendly Societies and Trades' Demonstration will take place on June z6th next. Full particulars of R. Bottomley, 5, Vale-street, Brighouse.

NORTH STAFFORDSHIRE.- - The eighth annual COI1Ipetition in connection with this railway took place on April 5th at the Stoke Town Hall, and was watched by a large concourse of spectators. Dr. R. H. Read, of Hanley, was the adjudicator, and submitted the various teams to a thorough and searching examination in both practical and theoretical first aid. At the conclusion the doctor placed the teams in the following order ;-Newcastle, A team, Z44 points Newcastle, B team, 20J"! ; Stoke Loco, 20 3 ; Longport, 202! ; Stoke Traffic, zoo !; Burton, 181; Tutbury, 178.

Amidst applause Mrs. Phillips, wife of the General Manager, presented the Challenge Cup to the successfu l Newcastle team. In handing over the trophy, Mrs. Phillips wished the team all success in the Inter-Ra ilway Competition in London.

On the proposition of Mr. W. Price (Stationmaster) a hearty vote of thanks was accorded to Mrs Phillips for her kindness in coming there that day and presenting the Cup to the winning team. This was carried with acclamation, and on the proposition of Mr. W. Bennett, a cordial vote of thanks was accorded Dr. Read for his painstaking and careful juuging. In acknowledging the vote Dr. Read expressed his indebtedness to Mr. Bagnall, secretary, for the excellent arrangements he had made for carrying out the competition.

At the invitation of Mrs. Phillips the men were afterwards entertained to tea at the Church Inststute.

The Newcastle team which will now represent th e Company in the Inter-Railway Competition consists of, A. Abbott, A. Hazlehurst, J. Till, C. Evans, and A. Kelly.

In a detailed report which the judge has forwarded to the Secretary he especially eulogises the work of the team. They were splendidly led, smart in drill, and lost no time. Their individual work was almost brilliant. This will not be the first time that the team has represent ed the Company, for in 1907 they ran second, being beaten by the Great Eastern Railway by seven points.

SOUTH-EASTERN & CHATHAM RAILWAy.-It is not so many years since it was the custom to make uncomplimenta ry remarks about this railway with regard to its rolling stock and it want of punctuality. All this is now a thing of th e past as regards the comfort and convenience of its lon g distance trains they leave little to be desired, and on the score of punctuality the service is fully on a par with its northern and other competitors. It is, however, in connection with ambulance work that it's progress has been most marked. Encouraged by the Directors and under the fostering care of Mr. E. C. Cox, Asst. -Supt. of th e Line, who is Chairman of the Centre Committee, assisted by his popular lieutenant Mr. E. A. Richards, who is Centre Secretary, the men have thrown themselves into the movement with an energy and enthusiasm which is worthy of all praise and must be intensely gratifying to all concerned.

March 24th was a day full of interest to the ambulance

April, 1909.

-FIRST

men on the line, inasmuch as it was the occasion when the first six teams in Group Competition were to meet, to decide as to which team should have the honour of rep resenting the Company in the Int er-Ra ilway Competi-

A I D.-

arterial bleeding; 5, complicat ed fra cture of the ribs, right side. Maximum, 20 marks each man.

Vhm Voce Examination.-I, Give the treatment of poisoning by prussic acid; 2, mention the poisons which burn .or stain the mouth; 3, mentIon the caus es of asphYXIa; 4, give the causes, signs and treatment of fracture of base of the skull; 5, mention the causes of burns.

The problems set were sound practical ones and such as would t est th e skill of th e various teams, both collectively and individually, and the judging being on the latest edition of the Text Book, it was necess13ry for the compe tIt ors to be up-to-date. The conditions provide that the six teams aggregating the highest numb er of marks in the Gro'Jp Competition became t-ligible to compete in the final. The .right to the Company in the Inter-Railway Competltl?n is decided by totalling the marks in the prellmmary and those in the final tog e ther, and. from the followin g table it will be seen that thIS h?nour has b ee n secured by a team from the SuperlOtendent's Office ;-

Team. Group 1. TOlal Competiti un Compellllon :'>Iarks :'larks. ;\lark s

The winners of the Directors' Challenge Shield,.also the .which will represent the S.

at the Inter-Railway Compet1tlon

The sixth annual dinner of the centre was tion, in addition to which they were to compete for the Challenge Shield and other valuable pnzes presented by the Board of Directors and the officers of the Company. While .to wind up th.e day's proceedings, the competitors and th eir friends and their medical instructors, to whom they owe so much, were to dine under the presidency of the popular Chairman of the Company (Mr. Cosmo Bonsor).

The competition, which took place at the Crystal Palace, commenced at 10.1,5 a.m., and was not finished until after five 0 clock. The arrangements had been admirably planned by the Committee of the Centre, under the personal supervision of the Centre Secretary (!dr. E. A. Richards) and l eft nothing to be deSIred. The judging had be en entrusted to Dr. J. Maclean Carvell one of the soundest Judges on the Examining Staff of the S.J.A.A., and set included stretcher drill, artificial carrying, individual injuries, and a brief viva voce examination.

The following is a list of the tests set ;Stretcher Work. - Bullet wound of. right kr: ee joint, fracturing the cc;>rnpllcated WIth arterial bleeding. MaXimum 100

T. Ev C' ns. J. Batchelor. ., ) E. Flisher. J. Stevens (Captain. THE VICTORIA TEAM, Artificial Respiration and Carrymg.-Fratured spine-to be placed on stretcher .a nd conveye? to shelter-by Nos. I, 2, 3, 4. 70 Suspended anin:ation from electnc shock, by NO·5· Maximum 30 pomts.

S. i\1arsh.

fi I It this year it has represented the which was second m the Competition. Company on seven occasIOns m e

Individual Injuries.-I, Fracture of both collar bones; 2, h d ht foot· 3 vertical wound of front wall of abclocrus e ng " f It f skull men, intestines protruding; 4, fracture 0 vall 0

held in the evening in the Concert Hall of }heh and was attended by nearly 900 0 t s under the presid e ncy Mr. H Cosmo onsor, w supported by the fOI!OWlOg ;-

F. Ilire. J. Fla\ in. W. Wiessner. O. Cromwell. W Bassam (Laj:tam)

-FIRST

-FIRST

Lieut.-Col. Baring, Director; Messrs. Vincent W. Hill, General Manager; C. Sheath, W. Thoms.on, Superintendent of the Line; H. S. Wamwrlght, LocomotIve Superintendent. P. C. Tempest, Engineer;. F: H. Dent, Goods Manager; H. R. Powell, London DIstrict Goods Superintendent; L. E. K. Thomas, London District Parc.els Manager; P. Cranefield, Assistant Superintendent of the (Outdoor ) ; E. C. Cox, Assistant the Lme and Chairman of the Centre CommIttee; SIr Julian Hayes, Gravesend; Messrs. Barker, Assistant Engineer; Bc:rber, Assistant Locomotive Superintendent; Burnham, AssIstant Electrical Engineer; Hayter, District Ellender, District Superintendent ;. and Drs. Robms, Rochester; Lord, New Brompton; Lld-:lerdale, Folkestone; Linnington, Folkestone; Wood, Green; Paddock Wood; Southey, Maidstone; Oliver, Lydd; Miller Waugh, Rye; Collingwood Fenwick, Red Hill;. Coke, Ashford; Henchley Canterbury; Yolland, Bromley; MUIr, New Cross; Carvell, Noble, Sittingbourne; Mansfield, Sevenoaks; Murray, Clapham; Messrs. W. R. and W. H. Morgan, of the St. John Ambulance AssociatIOn.

An appetising menu was presented by Messrs. Lyons

AI D.- April, 19°9.

the competition that day. This will be found recorded in another column.

In responding to the toast of "The Directors and Officers," the Chairman said, during the course of the year they had very few occasions such as that when it was possible for so many of them to meet together. He desired to be very candid with them in explaining the present state of affairs there was no disguising the fact that they were passing through somewhat critical times. Owing to the keen competition on the the part of the Motor Omnibus, the County Council tramway service, and other causes, their receipts had fallen very considerably, and this naturally engendered discontent on the part of the shareholders, and they must remember that in the two companies there wer e some 15,000 of them. He could assure his hearers that the directors had every confidence in the men who do the real hard work on behalf of the company, and he hoped that in times of trouble they would mutually co-operate for the benefit of all. He rejoiced to learn of the continued

The patient'.s injurie.s, from to right, are :- ( 1) Complicated fracture of ribs, right side; ( 2) fracture or vault of skull, WIth artenal bleedmg ; ( 3) vertical wound of front wall of abdomen, intestines protuding; (4 ) crushed right foot; (5) fracture of both collar bones. & Co., and after full justice had been done to the good fare, the cloth was cleared and the loyal toasts were duly honoured.

Mr. Drinkwater (committeeman No. District), in proposing the toast of "The Directors and Officers of the Company," said it was for him to adequately express their thanks to the directors and officers for the practical and sympathetic interest which they had shown in the first aid movement. He could assure them that the staff fully appreciated the facilities which had been granted to them, and it was the earnest desire of every man to be not only a credit to himself but to the Company in whose employment he was. In addition to the valuable assistance which had already been given them, Mr. Hill had that day offered a further sum of £5 to be a warded as consolation and other prizes.

At this stage of the proceedings, Mr. Cox (Chairman of Centre) announced, amidst applause, the result of

growth and prosperity of the ambulance movement in connection with their system. He was given to understand that last year some 2,300 cases were treated, and he had no doubt that in more than one instance this knowledge of first aid had been the means of saving life. Men in all grades of the service had united in the work, and the action of the stationmasters in organising among themselves "a shilling subscription fund," showed how enthusiastically the work is carried on. The fund in question had resulted in the sum of £10 being raised, and this had been awarded and would be presented that night.

Mr. Cosmo Bonsor then presented the challenge shield given by Sir A. Watkin and Mr. E. Mellor to the team from the Superintendent's office, and also presented the other prizes as follows :-

Winners of the group competitons :-

Group I. First prize, Cup and £1 per member. Won by Superintendent's Office Team-Oliver Cromwell, Fred Hire,

April, 1909.

Joseph Flavin, William Bassam (captain ), William Wiessner. Second prize, I2S. 6d. cash per member. Won by Ashford Works No. Team-Smith Wilkinson, l!ull, Electrician Fletcher, Lampmaker Taylor (captam ), Pamter Rowsell. Thirteen teams entered.

Gronp 2. First prize, Cup and lOS. 6d. cash per. me:nber

Won by Sevenoaks No. Clerk DaVIS, SIgnalman Young, Signalman Kemp, StatlOnI?aster Hemphrey (captain ), Signalman Turner. Second prize, 8s. cash . per member Won by Newington Team-Platelayer Wralght, Porter Manewell, Platelayer Robinson, Signalman Fox (captain ), Platelayer White. Eighteen teams

The Sevenoaks No. Team and Newmgton Team were respectively first and second in Group 3 last ye a r. Group 3. First prize, Cup and 7S. 6d. cash per member.

Won by Charing Cross Guards Team - Guard Cooyer, Guard Morley, Guard Di xon, Guard Monckton (captam ), Guard Sherrin. Second pri ze, 6s. 6d. cash member. Won by Tunbridge Wells No. Team-Bookmg Clerk Hemsley

Telegraph Clerk Hewitt, Warehouseman Weatherley, Goods Inspector Wenman (captain ), Goods Carman Wenman. Twenty-two teams ente recl. Group 4. First pri ze, Cu.p and 6s. ca sh per member. Won by Kent HOllse Team - SIgnalm a n E ves, Shunter Med -

Al D.- 149

deeply indebted to those gentlemen not only for acting as instructors to their classes, but also for officiating as judges at their various competitions. Speaking for the directors and the officers, he could assure them that they were proud of the skill shown by their men, and he trusted that the mem bers of the medical profession who were responsible for their instruction were equally proud of thtm.

The toast was responded to by Drs. Muir and Carvell, the former remarking that it was the duty of an examiner to feel the pulse of the candidates, and he could assure the company present that in the case of the me,: of the S.E. & C.R. the pulse was strong, and the enthUSiasm was strong, and they had therefore good reason to be proud of their students.

During the evening a selection of music was rendered by the band of the S.E. & c. R., und e r the of Mr. Roper Ginn; this was followed by a capital concert under the direction of Mr. Harry Jackson.

The following is a report on the ambulance work throughout the system which it will be seen continues to make excellent progress; members of the staff of all gradts

SITTIN G BOUR 'E No. 1. TEAill

Porter Hawker (captain ), Colle c tor hurst Signalman Yonng, W b Benn'ett Second prize, 5s cash per member. A on t . G U't d Team-Signalman Jenner, SSIS an e Inspector O.xley,. Signalman M.atthews Billposter Walker. Thirty-eIght teams enteled. Stationmasters prizes were awarded to :-

F · t £4 lOS To be divided equally amongst 1n- Irs prize,. d I nd Plate sector Ottoway, Porters Chapman ngram aI P P ld Redhill who saved the life of Shunter Holman by prompt arr est of subhim to the hospItal, he havmg had both his legs cut off. d II gst Clel'k d £ to be diVIde equa y amon .Secon and Shunter Mar c hant, of Bat.tersea ravls , Lane for their efficient treatment 10 the oco. fan oor who was most severely scalded by case 0 a p f b . ashes steam and afterwards fell mto a 0 UI nmg b' f the 1 £ to be gIven to the mem ers 0 Su Team, wl:o were judged. to represent th: S.E. & C. Ry., in the Inter-RaIlway CompetitIOn.

M V' cent Hill who proposed the toast of the r. 10 k'd th were all medical men connected with the wor ,sal ey ·

MAKING THE FINAL TOUCHES.

and in all departments tal-iog up the work in the most enthusiastic manner.

In 1906, 732 men passed the In 19 0 7, 8 .' 908 038 and there is every mdlcatlon of thiS 75 ) III I ,,' d d f th e t latter number being largely excee e or e pres n a doubt, the concession made to the staff the Directors of iSSlling an additional pass to all men In of an ambulance modallion has been largely possesslOn - th umbers responsible for this very gratIfYing lDcrease 10 e n attending the classes.

During the year, first aid was ren?e red In no less 2 38 3 cases this is exclusive of all tnfllng cases of whl.ch record has been taken. One cannot help but notice that the men of all Grades fraternise to the utrr:ost at the classes, and this goes to. prove that the instruction to the men has a very far reaching effect.

The whole of the classes have been held In the eventime meaning of course, that the staff have had to 'their hours for the purpuse of attending

THE SITTINGBOURNE No. I. TEAM IN THE INDIVIDUAL TE ST.

LESSONS IN DISINFECTION AND SANITATION.

By F. VV. Andrews, M.A., M.D., F.R.C.P. Lond., D.P.H. Cantab., &c.

WE have received from the publishers a copy of this valuable little book, the outcome of a co urse of le ctur es and practical work given by the author to the nursing staff of St. Bartholomew's Hospital. That the work has met with approval is evidenced by the fact that a second edition has been necessary. Although written in the first illstance for the benefit of members of the nursing profession, nJedical practitioners will find it a handy volume of reference, as it gives in a small compass a simple and intelligible description of the mos.t ?alien.t points connected with the study and theOrIes of dlsll1fectlOn, the chap ters dealing with bacteriology being especially interesting.

To those members of the new Territorial force who may be intending to ta ke up service in the proposed Sanitary Corps, this book should prove decidedly welcome, as from it they will be able to derive a practical knowledge of all that appertains to that branch of medical science with which they will be called upon to deal.

I t is illustrated with numerous diagrams, and is published at 3S. 6d., by Messrs. J. & A. Churchill, l7, Great Marlboroughstreet, Lond on.

SUPPLEMENTARY FIRST AID TO MINERS.

By William B. Arthur, L.R.C.P., L.R.C.S., &c.

THI S little book is, as its title implies, a book written more especially for those engaged in the mining industry, and as such it should prove of immense value to those engaged in it. In his preface the author disclaims any idea of supplanting the vari ous well-known standard works on first aid, claiming for the result of his own labours it is written as an adjunct to other manuals on the subject. I t has evidently been compiled with care and by one who has an intimate knowledge of miners and the injuries and severe illnesses to which they are liable.

Especially good is the chapter on Electnc Shock; indeed, we would recommend it to lecturers on first aid, it is written in a manner that is at once intelligible and interesting, and the illustrations which accompany the letter-press will greatly ass is t the ambulance student in understanding the precautions and treatment to be adopted when dealing with this a1limportant subject. We confess we should like to have seen a chapter upon one or more of the systems of rescue apparatus, but doubtless in future editions the author will deal with this subject.

We heartily recommend this little work to all of those who are connected with the mininb' industry. I t is published by Messrs. John Wright & Co., Bristol, at the popular price of sixpence.

AIDS TO MEMORY FOR FIRST AID STUDENTS.

By L. M. Frank Christian, M.B., C.M. Edin

THIS is a concise and comprehensive little work, written with a view to enable ambulance students to more readily g rasp and retain the knowledge they have acquired while attending a course of lectures on first aid, and to prepare for the qualifying examination. We have seen and read many text-books on this subject, hut it has not been our privilege to review one of which we so thoroughly approved; the author has systemised the various injuries and illnesses under different heads in such a way as to make them intellig ible to the novice taking up the subject for the first time; whilst to the seasoned first aider it will prove a boon in enabling him or her to readily rub up any portion of the subject of which for the time they may have lost touch.

AID. - April, 1908.

As an aid to those who enter for amb ul ance co mpetit ions it should prove invaluable, for we know of no work which g ives the details of any injury or sudden illness, and the treatment to be adopted, in so concise and terse a form; in fact, it sets it out in just the manner that a judge likes to re ceive the answer to his question. We anticipate for it a re ady sale amongst ambulance competitors training for the various events which mark this season of the year.

The tabulated chart dealing with injuries and diseases of the brain is especially gooel, as also is the cbapter on H ce morrhage. In the matter of artificial respirat io n, too, tbe book is quite up-to-date, inasmuch as it has an abridged but well thought out chapter on Schafer's method.

The book is publisbed at sixpence, and may be obtained from the Stores Department, St. Jobn Ambulance Association, St. John's Gate, London. By post, sevenpence.

THE ROYAL ARMY MEDICAL CORPS (VOLS.)

GLASGOW COMPANIES' ANNUAL.

Edited by Capt. R. T. Halliday.

WE heartily congratulate Capt. Halliday on the very entertaining number of the Annual which he has again issued. It teems with interestin g matter; interesting not only to the members of the Glasgow Companies, but to all of those who take an interest in the doings of our medical volunteers. There is a note of sadness, both in the opening and in the concl uding paragraphs, wherein allusion is made to the passing of the Volunteer for ce, in which, as the Editor says, "many of us have spent so many happy years." Vie trust, however, that the pass ing of the Volunteer does not ne cessari ly imply that Capt. Halliday's smart little "Mag." will not appear again. The new force will be equally dependent upon some calJable scribe to record, at least once in each year, the history of its camps, its co ntests, and, may we say, its increased efficiency; and surely no more capable pen could be found thus to maintain the traditions of the past than he wbo has endeared h imself to every member of the for ce by his kindly cour te sy and his ever-ready willingness to do anything that lay within his power to help the Glasgow Companies to atta in their present high state of effi ci en cy

The International First Aid and Life Saving Congress, Frankfort.

THE organising committee have informed us that all arrangements for this important gathering are now well advanced. The Congress, as our readers are aware, takes place at WhitsunLide, and the promoters earnestly desire that as many of their English colleagues, not forgetting those of the softer sex, will make an effort to attend this, the first International gathering ever held in connection with these two important subjects.

We understand that as many as ninety-three papers dealing with the subjects have been submitted, these may be summarised as follows :

Section I.-Medical First Aid in cases of accident, 8 papers.

Section IL-Iestruction of non-professionals in first aid (First Aid and Am bulance Lectures), 1 papers.

SEction IlL-Ambulance work in towns, 21 papers.

Section IV.-Ambulance work in the country-in industrial and small commercial centres,S papers.

Section V.-Ambulance work in land traffic (Railway, Automobile, &c.), 11 papers.

Section VI.-Ambulance work at sea and on inland and coast waters, 10 papers.

Section VI I.-Ambulance work in mines and similar working establishments, 13 papers.

April, 19 08 -FIRST

Section VIII. - Ambulance work by Fire Brigades, 8 papers.

Section IX.-Ambulance work in the mountains, 3 papers. Section X.-Ambulance work and sport, 3 papers. The following p'lpers have been promis ed from Great Britain :-

"Suggestions to improve First Aid on Railways," by James W. Croston (Manchester).

" First Aid in the Fire Service," by Horace Folker, " Suggested Rules for Recovering of Coal Mines after Explosions and Fires," by W. E. Garforth, President of the Mining Association of Great Britain.

"First Aid and Life Saving in Coal Min es," by Albert M. Oppenheimer. , "First Aid in the Streets of London," by S. Osborn, F.R.C.S.

The printing - of the various papers is now in full progress, and the Committee urgently desire that they may receive without further delay those papers not yet to hand, including their synopsis in the two other languages to be used in the Congress. This it will be readily understood is as much in the interest of the authors as of the management of the Congress.

It is hoped to shortly be in a position to publish full details as to Railway and Boat facilities, hotels, lodgings, &c. These we understand are in the hands of a special Traffic Committee at Frankfort which is engaged in making arrangements with the leading companies attending the Congress.

Eight foreign Governments have signified their intention of taking part and propose to appoint delegates to officially attend. It is also extremely gratifying to learn that the Industrial Communities of many countries will be represented by delegates, as will also the leading sanitary associations.

In connection with the Congress it is proposed to have an exhibition of life saving appliances and first aid apparatus, including means of transport for the sick and injured. For this purpose the Velodrom, situated close by the Congress building, has been most kindly placed at the disposal of the Committee by Herr Kommerzieurat Klayer, of Frankfort. Demonstrations with scientific exhi bitions will be given in Linckenberg Library which is in direct communication with the Congress building. All communications and all enquiries concerning the Exhibition should be addressed to the Exhibition Committee, 3, Bethmann Strasse, Frankfort-on-Main.

With regard to the details of the programme which has been arranged, the Committee have decided that having regard to the large number of papers to be read, the whole of the third day of the Congress-Friday, June 12th -shall be devoted to that function. Provisionally the programme as arranged is as follows :-

Tuesday, June 9th.-Reception and welcome of the delegates in the Rathaus followed by supper in the Ratskeller.

\Vednesday, June 10th.-Inaugural meeting of the Congress in the Aula :of the Academy for Social and Commercial Science (]ligelhaus). This takes place in the afternoon, after which the individual sections will be constituted and the sectional meetings commenced. Banquet in Frankfurter Hof.

Thursday, June 11th. Sectional meetings followed by united meetings.

Friday, June 12th.-Sectional meetings. Garden Party in the Palmeragarten.

Saturday, June 13 th.-Closing meeting of the

followed by visits to the In s titutes of Serum Cultivation, at Hochst, insp e ction of same, followed by an excursion to Saalburg. Supper at the Kurhaus, Ham burg.

It is also proposed to arrange practical d e monstrations with life-saving apparatus, and drills and life-saving exercises will be given. The data for this however is not yet sufficiently arranged for publication.

In conclusion, we can assure those of our readers who may propose attending the Congress, that they will receive a most cordial weIcome from our German "first aid" confr e res, and thus we hope another link may be forged in the International chain of friendship. The Organizing Committee are taking all possible steps to ensure that the Sanitary Institutions, public buildings, and other sights in the City of Frankfort, shall be accessible to the members of the Congress, who will be conducted round under the guidance of ,;x perts.

DO VER .-The annual competition for the Challenge Cup (presented by the president, E. P. Barlow, Esq.) took place on March 25th, in the Wesleyan Schoolroom, Buckland. The judge was Lieut. Burgess, R.A.M.C. (Vols.), assisted by Briga.de Chief Supt. Church -Brasier (retired), both of Margate Th ere were four teams in the competition, and the work was watched with keen interest by a large numb e r of visitors. The result was as follows :-ISt (winners of Cup and Gold Medals), CorpI. Tupper (in charge), Ptes. Young, Gore and Watson, with 188 marks; 2nd (winners Jf the Hon. Surgeon's prize), CorpI. Goodburn (in c harge), Ptes. Tugwell, Belsey and Goodiff, 147 marks ; 3rd, Ptes. Jones (in charge), Baily, Norley and Hopper, 146 marks; 4th, CorpI. Vincent (in charge), Ptes. Seath, Boddy and Woodhurst, I21 marks.

The cup was handed to CorpI. Tupper amidst hearty applause, this being the fourth time he has been in charge of the winning team.

In reply to a vote of thanks proposed by Sergt. Plater to the judges, the "Chief" expressed his great pleasure in being with the m e n again.

Where to stay at Frankfort during the "First Aid" Congress.

T H E SWAN HOT EL !s one of the and 111 the town It 1S convemently situated fo r both business and pleasure cent res. Finest Cuisine and Wines. :Moderate Tariff. For further information apply, TH E PROPRIETOR.

GRANO HOTEL CONTINENTAL.

Opposite Central Station. First-class Family Hotel. Best Comfort. Moderate Charges. Rooms from 2S. 6d. upwards. Telegra phic Address: "Continenthotel, Frankfurtmain." KIRCH ER-BRAUSER, Proprietor

THE ENGLISH PENSION, 61 I P ARI:STRASSE.

Central po. ilion. Tram o 17 from the SlaLi()n. MRS. Ei\lERSON

-FIRST Brevities.

WE have been unofficially apprised of the fact that the Chief Commissioner of the St. John Ambulance Brigade has recently issuer! an order permitting members of that body to join His Majesty's Territorial Forces. We are glad to learn that this is so, as our readers know we have all along maintained that the prohibition was not only impolitic, but it was somewhat lacking in courtesy, if not in loyalty, to the Sovereign Head of the Order, of which the brigade is a department. We do not, of course, know the reasons which have led to a reversal of the Chief Commismissioner's policy, neither do we desire to further pursue enquiries, it is sufficient for us that a line of conduct which threatened to wreck a grand organisation, which had taken years of labour and infinite skill to build up, has been reversed, and we are sure that all of those who have the best interests of the St. John Ambulance Brigade at heart will agree as to the wisdom of the step which has been taken.

OUR contention that the War Office Authorities would decline to recognise the Girls' Yeomanry Nursing Corps has turned out just as we anticipated. Sir Edward Ward has written to Capt. Baker, the founder of the movement expressing on the part of the Secretary of State for War appreciation of the very laudable intentions by which these young ladies are actuated, but regretting that their organisation cannot be accepted as at present constituted. Sir Edward points out, as we have on more than one occasion that it is undesirable to multiply the number of existing tions which have as thf!ir aim and objective the nursing of the sick and wounded in time of war. He also goes on to point out that the Army Council are anxious that all offers of aid which involve definite organisation s'-lould be coordinated through the Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem, with which body, he goes on to state, the Council is now in touch. This is as it should be, for the Order of St. John by its record in the past, and the services which it rendered to the Empire during the South African War, has earned this right of recognition, and we trust that it will always maintain this position.

* * *

cases which the value of a knowledge of first aid were reported 111 the public press last month. In the first a labourer was charged before Mr. Justice Channell with the attempted murder of his wife. It appeared from the evldence that on the 13th February the prisoner went up to P.e. Simpson and said, "I've murdered my wife." The officer asked him if he was serious, and ascertaining that he was, went back with the prisoner to where he lived' he there found the Wife with the external jugular vein through. the prompt first aid rendered by Simpson the woman s ltfe was saved. In sentencing the prisoner to twelve months hard labour, the judge sai d t h e wom a n

undo u bte dl y o wed her l ife to t he p ro m ptit ud e and sk ill of the officer, a n d probab ly t h e pri son e r owe d hi s li fe to him also.

* **

IN the second case we see t he reverse of the picture. At an inquest held at Worcester on the 30th of last month, as to the death of Frederick Colley, who died on the previous Sunday owing, it said, to the bleeding from a varicose vein It was stated that when the deceased's leg started bleeding neither he nor his landlady, nor a neigh bour who was called in, had any idea what to do. The neighbour went for a doctor. The two nearest were not at home, and by the time the third doctor, who was telephoned for, arrived, the deceased, who had been sitting up on a chair all the time with his feet on another, had bled to death. The doctor said if anyone had been there who had understood the principles of first aid, the bleeding could have been stopped by laying the man on the ground and raising the leg up, and bandaging above and below the wound. The Coroner regretted that the man's life had been sacrificed for the want of a little elementary knowledge of first aid, and the jury returned a verdict in accordance wIth the medical evidence.

Coming Event s .

Pm'tieulars OJ jortluoJlli11g events will be i11Se1'ted in this colu1JI n free of clta rge, if nceived not later titan the I4th of eaclt montlt

Kezgllley.-Ambulance competition in connection with the Keighley Society, on Saturday, June 19th, entrance fee, 3S.; particulars from Mr. A. Redman, 40, Wheathead-Iane Exley Head, Keighley. A Nursing Competition will also place on the same day entrance fee 9d., particulars of which can be had from Mr. J. Stoddart, 13, Raven-street, Keighley.

Ra vensth01 pe Divisio7Z.-- The Annual Competition for the Silver Challenge Cup and other valuable prizes will be held on Seplember 1 Ith. Competition forms will be issued shortly. Further particulars may be obtained from the Secretary Mr. VV. Ledgard, Alma House, Ravensthorpe-road, Thornhill:'

Nelson.- The Annual Competition for the "Wilkinson Memorial" Challenge Shield (confined to NO.4 District) will be held .on May nnd. Particulars can be had from Supt. H. BannIster, 31, Derby-street, Nelson.

COVENTRY CYCLES.-Mr. Edward O'Brie n , of Coventry, who is known all ove r the globe as the World's largest cycle dealer, is now issuing a collection of sumpillustrated catalogues of up-to-date Coventry made bicycles. All who contemplate purchasing a brand new " mount" should send for his lists of bargains , and particulars of .how you can, whilst r id ing the machme. Mr. 0 Bnen s h uge busi n ess has been built mainly by recommendations that have res ult ed from hi.s courteous treatment of, a n d straight forward deali n gs WIth, customers, and as Mr. O'Brien does not confine h imself to the sale of any partic ul ar bicycle. He can be re lie d u pon to suit the varying requirements of all our readers.

When corresponding with Advertisers please mention "First Aid."

April, 19° 9. -F IRST

First Aid Essay Competition.

THAT ambulance work is being actively carried on th ro u ghout the railway systems of this country, is evidenced by t h e number of railway men in all grades who submitted papers in this competition. Almost every Railway Company was represented, and owing to the nu m ber of entries it was impossible for us to declare the results in our previous iss u e, we now have the pleasure in doing so ;-

First prize, a first aid case, valued 2 IS.

MR. C. ROPER (" Poppyland "), 8, Salisbury-road, Cromer.

Mr. Roper is a member of the G.E.R. Ambulance Brigade, also the Cromer Ambulance Division.

Second prize, a first aid case, valued lOS.

MR. S. V. HEAP (" Cumulus "), Thornleigh, Earby via Colne.

Mr. Heap is the Superintendent of the Earby Ambulance Division and his paper shows an intelligent imagination and appreciation of position, combined with power of expression.

Third prize, MR. E. J. WATKIN (" Clericus "), 2, St. George's-place, Tredegar, Mon.

The two papers submitted by Mr. W. Goodley, of March, and Mr. W H. Morse, of Llanelly, were of a very high standard, and they are to be highly commended for the results of their efforts.

Dr. Vaughan Bateson, who kindly acted as judge, lI1form us that the standard of the many papers sent in is a very high one and the evidence shows that many of the competitors are as well prepared to cope with any accident that might occur, as is possible in a first aid sense, and that they have evidently carefully thought out what plans would best suit the possibilities of their various positions. The Companies in which they are employed are to be congratulated and will do well to watch such servants, for if they are as intelligently appreciative of the difficulties of their work in other directions as in first aid, they are men who will count; and with faithful attention to their duties will be sure to rise to good and responsible positions. The imaginative realism of the work in hand is equalled only by the case and attention displayed in practical details.

We thoroughly endorse the opinion of Dr. Bateson as regards the high standard of efficiency displayed by many of the competitors. We do not think that in all our previous competitions, has such a standard been reached, and considering the test was by no means an easy one, it reflects the proficiency which is being attained in the wo rk.

FIRST PRIZE ESSAY.

Questions ;-

A railway collision has taken place at a country junc o tion seven miles from a town and away from any immediate me d ical help. Information has been received at the town sta tion where yo u are on duty that there are several killed a n d many severely injured. The guard of one train has been pinned beneath the telescoped van, which is on fire, and h e is u nconscious; a driver has been severely scalded and h is a rm broken at the elbow.

On e ma n c ru she d be n eath some wreckage has a s evere sca lp wound a nd fi ve l ower r ibs broke n on r ight side;

AID . - 153

feeble. A . man who was sitting with hIS stick hIS knees was jerked forward on the Impact, ar:d ?IS stIck breakir:g, the lower portion has penetrated hiS aodomen several mches just above the naval.

A woman is said to have been severely hurt and is and complaining of pain in her and keeps tossmg herself about and shoutll1g there IS no sign of any wound or bruise to be seen. Another woman from the same compartment is laid. ser:niconsci?us? with a pale face, weak pulse and weak slghmg respiratIOn. There is no sign of any wounds or fractures. One man has a bruise o? the right side of the head and the pupil on that side is dtlated and larger than the opposite. His left arm and leg are more relaxed than those of his right. He is unconscious ; pulse strong, 50 per minute. has been severely damaged in the back and IS conscIOus but cannot .stand or move her legs; she states that she has no feelmg below her hips. A guard has had his arm torn off and lost a great deal of blood the artery, which is still bleeding; he has famted prevIOusly A compound fracture with hcemorrhage has befallen another case affecting the right femur.

Give your preparations for and treatment of the above in. brief from the moment of receiving [he mformatlOn, WIth speCial reference to the requirements of the railway service. After rendering first aid, transport cases to the most suitable place. Do not copy paragraphs out of Cantlie's book, but tell in your own words what you would do.

Answer ;-

A message has just been recei ved stating that an accident has occurred at the Junction which is seven miles away, .and over a do ze n persons are killed or injured, and requestmg that ambulance help be SEnt at once as no medical aid is available. The clerk on his way to hand the message to the S.M. calls me, and I, being one of the Brigade, go with him. The first question that arises is, what is the most efficient way to deal with this in the shortest time? First, to get there j secondly, to deal with the injured; thirdly, to get the injured to the Hospital here. Three separate problems to be worked into one whole so as to obtain the best possible result aE round. Three ways of getting there suggest themselves. This must be governed sornewltaf by tlze position of tlte J unctio n The three are :-(1) Special train (2) hand trolleys ; (3) road vehicles. To make up a special, even if the stock is available, takes time-telegrams having to be sent to and fro-and even if allowed to run, in the ordinary way nothing but a breakdown train being allowed on the road, signalmen would have to be advised, and a pilot arranged for. So, taking into consideration the short distance to be traversed, a special train can be left out. The position of the Junction in relation to the nearest highway would be an important factor in deciding the next item. If a road close by or through the Junction then by road would be the best; if there was no road near or through the Junction, I think that a hand trolley with an emergency equipment and three or four men would be best, though somewhat cramped for room (of course weather and the grade of the line would have to be taken into consideration). Further equipment and men could follow on the first road vehicle available and would probably not be far behind if at all, but the trolley could be run quite up to the wreckage and used as a base for the dressings.

N ow we come to the third method, by road vehicles,

-FIRST

a nd, unless I was very sure that a trolley would be best, I should go by road. There are sure to be s?me con vet ances handy, so I will take it that we deCIde on thIs method-either telephone for a motor or take any conveyances that were on the spot. While arranging this, each man that came up would be set to fetch or do something, so that all that is required should be ready.

I should take the following items on the first load :Three or four men, stretcher, splint-box, and ambulance cupboard containing boracic and lint, cotton wool, linen calico, olive oil, roller and tnangular bandages, scissors, pins, sal volatile, bottle of antiseptic (I use Lysol), also get two bottles of clean water, one or cUI?s ?T glasses, and a basin-the latter water with 111 for soaking any dressin gs reqUIred. Other materIals got ready would be shunting poles and broom handles, sacks a nd meat-cloths, rugs, blankets, pillows, cushions, plenty of strong cord and other bandages or linen available, and some footwarmers. If there was a copper at the Station for th em (as we have here), they are cumbersom e-b ut would be very useful to counteract shock, these things could follow on; the S. M. to arrange for conveyances to follow, motors and open landaus for preference to call at the Station eJZ 1'oute to tak e materials OT any other men who had meanwhile been fetched from duty or home by telephone or m esse nge r, the Hospital to be advised, and th e e.O. of th e Town Brigade advisee! to have a squad of men at the Hospital ready to unload the injured persons as they arrived and carry them in.

One or two arrangements could be made on the journey.

Arriving at th e scene of the accident I should instruct o ne man to help with th e cupboard the whole time and hand out dressings, &c., as required by the workers, I think this wo uld mean less confusion, for if everyone wen t to get his own lint, &c, things would soon get mixed up, each could s ta le his wants and the man in charge supply them. Ine xpe rienced men could fe tch rugs, pillows, footwarmers, &c ., and also make up improv ised stretch ers und e r the instructions of the man in charge of any case, and test them. Now, for the purposes of this essay, I mu st place mys e lf in charge of any team, and take it to be myself workin g at any individual cas e Assuming that I come across the cases in rotation as given in FIRST AlD.

I should make a q uick but effic ient examination of th e injured persons, diagnosing the case and giving or ordering any tr eatme nt instantl y required. Then treat th e cases in accordance with what I considered their severity o r the importance of their being attended to by skilled aid.

FIRST

SURVEY, DIAGNOS IS, AND ll\lMEDIATE TR EATr-IENT

Cas e I -G uard pinned ben eath telescoped va n, which is on fire; he is unconscious.

Owing to the fire the bystanders would probably be busy here putting out the flames, and as a lifting -jack would be at the Junction endeavours would be on the wa y to release the man, unless the breakdown gang had arrived, telling th e m to call me as soon as the man was able to be moved, so that I could examine for fractures before moving , but anyhow to prevent the flames reaching, should proceed to.

Ca se II - Driver severely scalded, arm broken at e lbow. Should send a man for strips of lint soaked in the antiseptic lotion, cut cloth es away, apply the lint, cover him with a coat or rug,_ tell him not to move his arm, leave a bystander in charge.

Case III-Man crushed beneath wreckage, severe

AI D.- April, 19°9

scalp wound, five lower ribs broken on right side, respiration feeble. Respiration feeble and ribs broken on right side would indicate injury to the liver, causing intern al h remo rrhage, possibly right kidney also injured. Should send for cold compress of lint for scalp wO'..lnd, instruct men clearing wreckage to be careful not to move or shak e the patient and to call me when clear.

Case IV.-Man with piece of stick penetratin g abdomen; intestines injured, shock and extreme collaps e. Cover patient well; send for footwarmer, if arrived, or large stones or bricks heated on one of the engines. Leave someone in charge to prevent movement or anything bein g given by mouth; loosen clothing.

Cas e V.-Woman screaming, complaining of pain , tossing about, &c. Not finding any sign of injury shoul d instruct someone to watch her for collapse or fainting, but not take any notice of her ; cover her up.

Case VI-\Voman semi-co nscious, pale face, weak pulse, sighing respiration; no wounds or fractures Symptoms would indicate shock; should loosen neck clothing, cover well, and send for footwarmer or hot bricks.

L ea ve someone in charge.

Case VII-Man with bruise on right side of head, right pupil dilated, left limbs relaxe d, unconscious, puls e strong. Symptoms would indicate compression of right side of brain, th e nerves crossing at its base causing paralysis of left sid e Should apply cold compress to head, lay easy for breathing, h ea t to feet and cover up well.

L ea ve someone in charge.

Case VIII-Woman damaged in lower part of back, cannot stand or move legs, no feeling below hips. Symptoms indicate fracture of spine at about the lumbar region. Should tell her to keep quiet and not attempt to move. Cover up well, apply heat to body. Leave someone in charge to give stimulants if necess a ry.

Cas e IX. -G uard has arm torn off, lost g r ea t deal of blood from axillary, still bleeding, has fa inted previously. Fainting would be from loss of blood. During the faint the bleeding would have been nl'Jch checked owing to the faint beating of the heart failin g to pump the blood out. During this time too the torn end of the artery would hav e contracted somewhat, owing to this and the weak state of th e heart. A cold compress app li ed over the wound and bandaged would probably be sufficient. I should leave an experienced man with this case to control bleeding at th e subclavian artery if n eces sary. No stimulants to be given, and to be kept quiet so as not to excite the heart and cause strong pumping.

Cas e X.-Compound fracture (with b rcmo rrhag e) of right femur. Should apply loose tourniqu e t to be tightened if arterial bleeding should come on. Send for cold compress, to be placed over wound. Leave experienced man in charge. Cover patient up.

Should have noted the inj uries of each case in as few words as possible on a leaf of my pocket book, and have it pinned on the patient. Tell someone to make a list of these, and if possible, should have this wired through to the Station for transmission to the Hospital. They could then be preparing for the cases and have each one taken direct to its proper place on arrival.

Having by this time got fairly an idea of our job, should proceed to finish and dispatch each case. Though bleeding stands first. As we have got two cases of it under hand, I think the first case to go is Case 4. There would be extreme collapse, shock and internal h <e morrhage. A critical case and the less done by any but medical men the better. Should not remove the piece of stick, but cut away the clothing and apply a cold pad over injury; no

April, 1909.

-FIRST

bandage on account of pressure. An improvised stretcher made of two shunting poles and two sacks having already been laid ready by helping bystanders, should gently place patient on this and load. the stretcher on to a motor should carefully secure It, put someone to accompany It and send off.

If cleared, No. 3 comes next as being another critical case. Should finish head by bandaging, give sips of cold water or sprinkle the face, keep quiet, laying flat, should not apply any outward application, as both liver and kidney might be injured-one requiring cold and the other hot application-complications might occur, have tight clothing loosened, pla.ce on improvised stretcher of poles and sacks, load on to a motor, cover well up, secure stretcher, place someone in charge, raise patient's feet with two cushions from a first-class carriage.

The next to go would be Case 9. Having seen that the compress over the wound is properly secured, should carry him by the two handed seat to an open laudau or a motor, place him in a half-sitting position., we!l racked with cushions. Send an experienced man WIth him 111 case bleeding came on..

Next is Case 10. Havmg put on cold antIseptIC dressing at first, should now gently straighten the limb, but not apply extension owing to th e danger to the femoral artery being lacerated, apply cotton wool pad and bandage round chest, hips (above and b e low fracture), leg, hoth knees ankles and feet. Place on stretcher, cover up, load on to 'one seat of a wa ggo nette which had been sent, cover wel1, place pillow under head..

Case 5. Owing to the commotion she was makmg would probably call for further attention. Taking this for hysteria should not waste tim e over h er but get on to Case 2. Should just examine the woman first her for a time· her natural curiosity would, I thInk , brmg her round to what was going on. If on coming round she was weak from shock, a cup of tea and a rest in a m.ilway cottage near by would meet the case.

Case 2 having had his scalds dressed WIth stripS of lint soaked in olive oil, covered with cotton wool and bandaged, I should make an angular padded wei}, apply inside arm. After carefully bendmg It across hiS chest, thum b upwards, p ad the joint with cotton wool or hair stuffing from the carriage seats, bandage above and below elbow, support in la rge arm-sling. Should remove hirP, according to position of s.cal?s, by two-handed sea t or stretcher and re cline or lay hIm m a laudau and send off ; give stimulants if wanted. Cover up .well.

Case 6 next. Though no sIgns of wounds or fractures there migld be some i71tenwl,zlljLLl'ies, keep her flat with h ea d low, loos e n clothmg, apply fnctlOn to limbs if necessary ; give dilute brandy or sal volatile in s.ips if needed, watch for any change, load her on to stretcher and on to a motor, put bot bricks at fee t, thI g hs and armpits; cover well, send someon e in charge, secure stretcher well.

Case 8, being conscious, had now better be moved. If she was wearing a long ulster or coat, sh.o uld roll handles each side, turn collar up, and 11ft on to. a stIff stretcher (using for this purpose a lavatory door whIch had become wrenched off and on which some rugs had been laid), having someone to lift her feet and. anothe: to pass the stretcher under, if she had only a tIght fittmg short jacket on a rug or meat-cloth would have to be passed under her' and poles rolled in. Should load her on to a carriage which a lady spectator offered us, send someone in charge, after having packed her warmly 111 and secured the stretcher.

AID. - 155

Case 7, being un co nscious and best at rest, can wait a few minutes while we see what is the matter with C"3.se 1. The fire having been put out and the van lifted, on examination we find that his left forearm is broken and symptoms point to concussion, keeping the head low and undoing tight clothing, I procure two splints and apply them padded, bandaging above and below the fracture, using strips of the towels from the lavatory carriage, and using a handkerchief round the hand, place the lim b in a sling made from another towel, place him on a stretcher made from two coats and two lengths of fence rail, put him on a motor whIch has returned, secure th e stretcher, cover him well, hot stones to feet, and send someone with him. Case 7, still being in the same condition, it only remains to replace the cold application to head, load on to stretcher which was hrought back by the car just sent with Case J, put a pillow under his head to raise it slightly, load him on to the car that has just come back frum taking Case 3 ; cover him well, apply heat to feet and send someone in charge.

This practically completes our work, the three persons killed having been removed to a building near, we go and see how our hysteric al patient is getting on We find her somewhat fatigued from the excitement and fright, but now able to proceed in a cab which had arrived on th e chance of getting a far e.

We should now clear up our belongings and load them on to th e waggonette which had returned, though by this time conveyances of all sorts had arrived with curious si g htse e rs. We start for home, having had enoug h for one day. Stopping any of the cars and la ndau s that we meet goi ng back for more, I go as far as the Hospital just to see how thin gs are progressing, and, of course, find them all terribly busy, but with all our patients as comfortable as th ey possibly can be under t'le circums.tances, th e arrangemp.nts having saved them much tIme and troubleespeciaJl y the items of each case that were sent through

Now, before closing, I 111uSt tender a wor? .of speCia l thanks to those of the Brigade who so wIllm g ly and energetically helped for all th ey know how, and to tl?ose of bystanders who so. a.nd ably out my requests and mstructlons m fetchmg as rugs, &c., from the car that brought them, and 111 making up and testing improvi.sed

Though feel in g great satIsfactIOn at hav111g a "grand ci ay," for the sake of the I.am not anxIOus for another such, but should occaSlOn reqUIre I hope to be found "Aye, ready! "

Th e executive of th e St. John Ambulance Association has received thro u ah th e Chairman of the British Red Cross Society (Lorl'Rothschild), t.wo of Honour, which have been forward ed by PrInce Hilkoff, SeCl etary of State to His Majesty the Czar o f Russ.ia, and PreSident of the Russian Red Cross. The Diplomas. have been awarded to the Association by the o.f the Empress Marie Funds fo: the dl111mutlOn of the sufferings of the Sick and wounded 111 war, one as a mark of approval of the Jitter exhibited at the Eighth. Red Cross Conference in London, 1907, and the other 111 reco gni tion of the work done by the Ambulance Departme?t of the Order of the Hospital of St. John of J erusalem 111 England, both in peace and war, for so many years past.

An advertisement in this Journal is the cheapest traveller you can have.

-FIRST

First Aid and Life S.:l ving in Mines.

(Concluded from page I35).

MR. W. H. ATKI TSO N, H.M. Inspector of Mines for the Swansea and Cardiff district, insisted in his evidence that it should be made compulsory for owners of mines to establish at least one rescue station in every mining district. At each rescue station, as H. M. Inspector of Mines for York and Lincolnshire (Mr. William Walker) said in his evidence), fifteen appliances for enabling men to go into irrespirable atmosphere should be kept.

However excellent the provisions may be which will be made in the above direction (made possibly in response to a certain temporary enthusiasm or desire to improve upon the present system) they will be of little avail unless the material is thoroughly overhauled and examined from time to time. This will, of course, necessitate a closer inspection of mines in the future. As a proof of this I need only refer you once more to the evidence of Mr. Walker. This witness referred particularly to the appliances for enabling men to go into an irrespirable atmosphere. If the apparatus was not in perfect order, a man putting one on would, as he significantly stated, be lost.

This inspection is a matter for the Government; it must be frequent and thorough, and not of a casual or perfunctory character. The present system is no fault of the inspectors, for these gentlemen cannot accomplish impossibilities any more than can other mortals, but it is quite clear that a thoroughly organised system of inspection of all mines is absolutely necessary, and if the number of inspectors at present engaged is insufficient for the work it is the duty of the Government to increase their numbers.

Again the supply of material and its ll1spection will be of no avail if in the hour of need there are not available the cool-headed, well-trained men who know how to use the appliances. The willingness with which miners are are ever ready to risk their own lives to rescue fellow miners is notorious; the accounts of many such noble deeds of pure heroism are among the most thrilling of which the public hears. Only recently King Edward VII. had an opportunity of conferring upon two miners, for such deeds of heroism, the medal which he founded in 1907 to be conferred in recognition of acts of gallantry for saving or endeavouring to .save lives in mines or quarries but how much more effectively can such gallantry work if directed into the proper channels. It is essential that the miners themselves should be so instructed as to be always able to render that initial aid to the injured which would save many are now unnecessarily and cruelly lost. The pnnclple of self-help should be universally instilled into the whole body of miners by systematis instruction. If all men who go underground day by day cannot be made individually capable of giving first aid themselves a considerable portion of their number should at least regularly trained in rescue work and in the right use of the various apparatus which we owe to science for combating successfully some of the worst of the many risks. In this respect much remains to be done and it would appeal' as if the instruction of miners would have to be taken up from the very beginning.

Unfortunately, as Mr. T. M. Ronaldson, H.M. Inof for the West of Scotland, pointed cut in hiS eVidence, disregard for the regulations for the safety of the workers underground v:as the direct cause of a large number of preventable aCCidents. There was this witness stated, a spirit of defiance against discipline many

I D.- April, (9°9.

of the miners, which was very much to be regretted, and to this he attributed many of the lamentable accidents which ought never to have occurred. To trace the origin of this condition of affairs one had, he said, to VIsit the homes in which these miners were reared as children. It would be found, he asserted, that as children they had not been instructed in the duty of obedience of subjection to proper discipline. The consequence was that they grew up with the impression that they were their own masters and that they became impatient of any restraint. To com bat this spirit will perhaps be the hardest task awaiting the reformer but even here the work can be undertaken with some hope of success.

If only by some easily worked agencies we can get th e body of miners rendered familiar with the principles of first aid; if we can introduce a really adequate provision for the supply to every mine of the necessary rescue appara· tus, of am bulance appliances, and of practical lessons to turn all these to proper account when occasion arises-a new prudential spirit among the vast body of miners will be fostered. Miners thus universally instructed would gradually learn to become very much more careful than they now are-the very beginning of self restraint.

Mr. Claude B. Palmer, of Wardley Hall, Pewlaw-onTyne, Co. Durham, as fully competent on these matters as anyone of H.M. Inspector of Mines, finds from his own experience that to make ambulance work successful it is necessary that the owners and managers of collieries should take a personal interest therein. There must be, anyway, one or more enthusiasts to carryon the work ; and the men should be interested by competitions and something out of the ordinary run of class instruction. Many classes, Mr. Palmer asserts, are ruined by the surgeon instructor wearying the students with too many lectures. For that reason the St. John Ambulance Brigade work is so successful, as it offers great variety in the work done, much of which is really practical. Mr. Palmer states that he has found it an excellent thing to have a few special lectures by various doctors on subjects out of the ordinary ambulance course. The secret of all success in ambulance work is practice. Mr. Palmer has also insisted that all officials at his collieries should be holders of first aid certificates. The same principle prevails in the Metropolitan Police Forcean extension thereof to all mining officials could only work for the benefit of the miners. Surely here are valuable hints for the future from a man qualified to speak.

In a supplement to the evidence of the Commission recently published, the question of first aid is carried further, and the suggestions made by Sir Richard Temple deserves some notice as pointing to a new and useful direction :-

"The willingness on the part of the women in the miners' families to nurse those in need of nursing is well known, and not infrequently the offer of professional nurses to attend the invalid (even at the expense of the mine owner) has been declined. Though women generally may have a natural instinct for nursing, there is a great risk that devoted nursing, if not judicially performed, may injure the health of the nurse, instead of curing the miner; it may thus saddle the miner's family with two invalids. It has in consequence been suggested that as miners are to be instructed in first aid, so are the miners' womenfolk to be instructed in nursing, and the St. John Ambulance Association have offered its services to provide the necessary tuition." Here, then, is a further useful hint, of which, if properly followed up, much good may come in future.

From the foregoing remarks, which are by no means exhaustive, it will be seen that to-day the subject of first

April, 19 0 9 -FIRST aid in mines is at last being more or less systematically approached. The subject is one of recent interest, so that the deficiency of many centuries must be made good. What has been so far achieved, even in the most advanced quarters, is nothing in comparison to what remains to be done. It is the duty of this First International Congress on First Aid and Life Saving to devote some of its time to an advancement of this question, at last recognised as one of primary importance. no place could be appropriately selected. As 111 so many other questIOns demanding a systematic application, Germany has taken the lead in this one also, and we gratefully acknowledge our indebtedness to her for the way she has gone and the way she has shown us. Though mining is carried on in the different countries under varying circumstances, there can be no variety in the principles of first aid, for the miner's life is everywhere equally valuable, and the risks are everywhere sufficiently alike and sufficiently great to rouse our sympathy. If the conservatism of prejudice of the miner in any country renders reform more difficult there than here, the very difficulty must incite rather than damp our enthusiasm. Theoretical discussions and the international exchange of opinions and experiences (continued perhaps beyond the duration of this Congress) will not alone help us to the end; practical working is more convincing than mere words. I should welcome It as a distinct benefit to the cause in wbich we have met if ways and means could be found to provide for the exchange internationally of visits between working delegates from various mining centres. The miners all the world over are a vast fraternity; a personal inspection of the workin.g arrangements for life saving and first aid where IS more systematically supplied, and the views of one m111er to the other will be more convincing than any enactments by even the most paternal Government. The Government would add a further proof of thiS generOSIty to that of its hospitable invitation, if it would give and more especially British miners, the opportumty ?f inspecting in its extended mining district of the German working system of life saving and first aId, which up to the present it is but fair to say is so far unsurpassed by any other country in the world.

London. & North= Western Railway.

THE final stage of the annual competitions in connection with this railway took place on the 26th of March, at the Belle Vue Gardens, Manchester, when Geo. Ashton, Esq., M.D., and "V. R. Matthews, Esq., M.B., officiated as judges, and the following is the result of their award :Stretcher ndi\idual Ques· \Vork. Injuries. tions Total.

I. Wolverhampton (G oods ) ... 87 84t 255

2. Ordsall Lane ...80t 84 79

3. Liverpool (B runswick Dock ) 69 83 74 226

4. Crewe Loco (Electric Shop) 67t 76 77

5. Kendal...... ..·72 51 84t 207f

6. Shrewsbury (Loc o ) 65 74 65 204

AI D.- 157

QUESTIONS.

I. Give the treatment for heat stroke.

2. Give the treatment for (a ) iniured kidney, (b) quicklime in eye.

3 Symptoms and treatment of a case of mushroom poisoning.

4. What may insensibility be due to ?

S. Signs, symptoms, and treatment of internal h cemorrhage from rupture of the liver.

INDIVIDlJAL INJ URIES.

I, A shunter has fallen from a railway wagon, and has sustained a fracture of his right scapula and a scalp wound of head, with severe heemorrhage

2. Compound comminuted fracture of the left ankle, with severe hc:emorrhage from posterior tibial artery.

3. Severe hc:emorrhage from a stab wound of face, and bleeding from the socket of a broken tooth, which has been knocked by the blow.

4. A case of suffocation by foreign body obstructing the air passages in a person who has lost one arm.

5. A man IS found lying across a live rail on an electric railway. Liberate and treat him.

The maximum number of points which could be obtained was 300, made up as follows: 100 for stretcher work, 100 for questions, a.nd 100 for the treatment of individu al injuries.

At the conclusion the prizes were distributed to the competitors by the Hon. C. N. Lawrence, Deputy Chairman of :he Company, and consisted of the following handsome gifts :-

First prize, five cowhide kit bags. Second prize, five fruit stands with painted china bowl. Third prize, five com bination egg, butter and toast fram es. Fourth prize, five hot-water jugs. Fifth prize, five cake baskets. Sixth prize, five cases fish eaters (6 pairs). Seventh prize, five china and KP. mounted salad bowls with pair of servers. Eighth prize, five cut glass biscuit boxes with KP. mounts. Ninth prize, five teapots. Tenth prize, five cut celery vases. Eleventh prize, five meat carvers (3 pieces).

The following handsome gifts were presented to the District Secretaries for services rendered to Centre :A set of fish eaters to Mr. J. W. Allin, Manchester; a case of carvers (5 pieces) to Mr. W. J. Battisson, Wolverton pair of bronze ornaments to Mr. J. Gayton, Bangor; kit bags to Mr. T. Graham, Wigan, Mr. J. Green, Shrewsbury, and Mr. K R. Hobbs, Rugby; a set of fish servers to Nfr. J. A. Orr, Liverpool; a flower stand to Mr. S. Robinson, Oldham a case of carvers to Mr. W. J. Savage, Trent ; a marble clock to Mr. T. Thelwell, Pennth; an aneroid barometer to Mr. A. Worrall, Crewe.

In the course of an eloquent address at the conclusion of the presentation, the Hon. C. N. Lawrence expressed the pleasure he felt at being present and for having had the opportunity of presenting the. to the representing the several of the lme.

After congratulating the wmnmg team, th.e went on to show the need for an ambulance mstltutJOn, and referred to the self-sacrifice made by railway men in giving up much of their. little to in this work which has as its aIm the rellef of pam and sufferIng.

7. Buxton... 65 63 74 202

8. Northampton ( Castle ) 63t 7I 67 20rt

9. Bletchley... ..·53 · 80 57 190 t

10. Earlstown (Wagon ) .. ·55 64 54

I. Holyhead 60 57 56 173

The following were the tests set by judges :STRETCHER WORK.

You are at a football match, and one of the players is injured. He is vomiting blood, like coffee g:r<?uncls, and there is fixity and deformity of the left shoulder Jomt. Treat and place him in a bed.

" I n'otice " he said "that in 908, no less than 4,77 6 cases were to, Including 173 cases of first aid to. the general public." After expressing the. thanks of the. Directors to the District Secretaries for their valuable aId, Mr. Lawrence went on to refer to the obligation they were under to the members of the medical profession for their generous and self-denying work the .and who, he regretted to say, received so lIttle conSIderatIOn the general public on account of that volul!tary self sacnfice.

To those mem bers who were present WIth them that day,

-FIRST

-FIRST

he desired to express on behalf of that company their grateful recognition for their After.an expression of thanks to Messrs. J for k1l1dly their magnificent grounds at theIr servIce for the competItion that day, Mr. Lawrence concluded hIs remarks by a few appropriate and encouraging words to the members of the Company's staff who are engaged in ambulance work. It is he said, because the work in which you are engaged is of love for your fellow man, and sympathy for his suffering::, that I am here to-day to thank you for what you have done in the past, and to wish you God -speed in the future, in the noble and disinterested work in which you are engaged.

In our report last month on the District Competition, which took place on March yd at the Lime-street Station, Liverpool, we unfort.:nately made a regrettable error by awarding to Birkenhead Dock the premier position. This should have been assigned to Brunswick Dock (Goods), while Birkenhead, it has been pointed out to us, was twelfth in the order of merit. We sincerely regret the error and tender our apologies to both teams. To err is human, to forgive divin e; we do not doubt, therefore, that our error will be overlooked.

Albion Motor Ambulance.

THE Albion Motor Car Company has rectntly supplied to the Newstead Hospital, RoxburghshirC', a new ambulance van for infectious cases. The vehicle, which has been designed and carried out under the instructions of Dr. M. J. Oliver, medical officer of health for the county of Roxburghshire, is well built, and there are a number of details in connection with the construction which we think may prove of interest to our readers. The

AID. - April, 19°9.

The mountings of the vehicle are nickel-plated, but all bright parts have, as far as possi ble, been dispensed with. An auxiliary stretcher is carried above the main

April, 1909·

The Nature, Amount, and Use of Different Forms of Transport Material.

THE followin a is an extract from a lecture on the "Removal of the Sick Wounded from the Battlefield" which was recently delivered by Lieut.-Colonel W. G. CM.G., of the War Office Staff. space will not admit of our publishing. the artIcle.m Its those of our readers who are Il1terested In the subject wll1 find the lecture fully reported in the J ?urnal of Royal Army Medical Corps for January. It IS not only Il1teresting, but it is instructive, Colonel has a thorough grasp of his subject, and deals "':Ith It In a m?st comprehensive manner. The. which we pu?llsh will we believe prove very Il1terestmg to those of our readers who local Transport Service. We. have no doubt, that it would be quite possible to form 111 our towns and larger villages, groups of men who be willing to undertake periodical training in the dutIes here set out, and many of these might be railway who would, we feel assured, gladly take any opportumty to perfect themselves in such work.

THE NATURE, AMOUNT, AND USE OF DIFFERENT FORl\lS OF TRAN SPORT MATERIAL.

AI D.- 159

organisation of these corps will be found at page 294 of the official report on the medical arrangements of the South African War.) In continental armies auxiliary bearer columns with transport materials are organised and trained in peace for this kind of ,, ' ork all down the line of evacuation, by local branches of National Red Cross So c ieties. The first concern of the staff, then, should be the formation of such auxiliary bodies. They are absolutely necessary between the field ambulances and the clearing hospitals and railhead, when there is a considerable distance of road to be covered and no suitable vehicles available.

(2) THE USE OF GENERAL SERVICE WACON S RETURNIN G EMPTV.

REAR VIEW SHOWIN G STRETCHER IN POSITION.

stretcher, and can be placed in position for the purpose of carrying a second patient. When not in use this auxiliary stretcher is turned up against the side of the van, so that it occupies little or no space; when in use it is slung from the roof by means of straps. A reclining chair, with foot rest, for patients able to sit up is carried in the forward part, while for the accommodation of the nurse or attendant in charge, a seat is fitted at the back of the vehicle. For the purposes of communication between nurse and the

This is, perhaps, the point of all ot.hers to wh!ch staffofficers will have to direct their attentIon. SpeCIal transport for sick and wounded consists only of the field stretchers of regimental units, and of the field ambulances. There is nothmg else speCIally for the purpose. As I have ev.en ambulance trams must be improvised, and cleanng hospItals have, as yet, no transport.

It is on this that our present field medical organisation depends. It is definitely decided, I believe, tha[ with divisional transport and supply column and park no speCIal transport shall be maintained for medical purposes, but that the empty general service wagons shall be used. Much consideration will therefore have to be given to the co-ordination of the work of bringing supplies up to the troops and conveying the si,ck and .wounded During prolonged periods of t,. z. e.,. dUrIn g pauses m operations, some system of dlstnbutmg the empty servIce wagons at definite hours of the day to the field ambulances and clearing hospitals may be arranged, but after big battles (or during them, should t.h.ey ?e prolonged over more than two or three days) the utIlIsatIOn of the supply wagons for medical services di.fficult problems that the staff mu.st solve 111 conjunctIon the transport and medical services. In the South Afncan war the Canadian field hospital had transport that could be converted into am bulance transport, and this was considered an ideal arrangement for adding to the amount of transport available for clearing it.

SIDE VIEW OF THE ALBION MOTOR AMBULAKCE. main stretcher, it will be noticed, is carried on two pneumatic cushions, which completely absorb all the vibration which is not taken up by the springs and tyres. The patient may, if desired, lie in a semi-reclining position, as one end of the stretcher can be raised up for this purpose. The whole of the fittings of the ambulance are portable, so that the vehicle can be used to bring in clothing for disinfecting purposes. The matter of ventilation has received special attention the air is taken in by means of two vertical shafts at the forward end of the vehicle; these intakes convey the air down to the floor, the object being to keep off all draught from the patient's face. The ambulance, it should be stated, will be used in a country district, and will be required to negotiate sharp C0rners and extremely narrow roads j it is interesting to note therefore that the wheel-base has been kept short on this account. For this purpose the 16 h.p. Albion chassis was chosen owing to its unique reputation for simplicity, reliability and and economy of upkeep.

STRETCHER SHOWING SPECIAL BACK REST RAISED.

driver, a speaking tube has been fixed in close proximity to the nurse's seat, thus obviating any necessity for her to rise to make use of it. The tyres on all four wheels are pneumatic, and the wheels are fitted with patent detachable rims, so that no delay should be experienced owing to the puncturing of a tyre. A spare tyre, fully inflated, is carried, and in the event of a punctured tyre it can be readily adjusted in a few minutes.

"FIRST AID READY REFERENcE."-We understand that this valuable little booklet is nearly out of print. Since we first reviewed it in our columns, the demand for it has been continuous, so much so, that the supply is well nigh exhausted. vVe understand from the Publishers that upwards of 5000 copies have already been given away, which speaks well not only for the generosity of the publishers-Messrs. Cuxson, Gerrard & Co. - but proves also that first aiders have appreciated this valuable little compendium. We should advise those of our readers who have not yet made application for a copy to do so without delay, otherwise they may be too late to secure one.

A great and imp?rtant IS, therefor.e, thrown .on the administrative medical servIce 111 the field 111 with the preparation and use of auxiliary transport for and wounded. As a first principal, it should be that the regulation num ber of. bearers can only work I? a very limited area, and rarely, If ever, beyond the dress.mg stations, and that the ambulance wagons of the field r:nedlcal units should not be detached from then.l to g.o any dIstance, that would prevent their rejoining their unIt on the same day. One can readily understand, th.at under conditions of severe fighting it would .be to prevent the field ambulances from becommg Immobillsed.and unable to move on with their unless there IS a very considerable organisation of auxlllary transport. following methods adopted for provldmg this auxiliary transport m campaIgns :-

(1) HAND CARRIAGE BY ORGANISED GROUP S OF STRETCHER-BEARERS FROM THE LOC:\L CIVIL POPULATION.

This is of immense value for removing the lying cases. It is especially easy in countr!es where there IS a large coolie popub.tion. It was practIcally the form of transport used by the Japanese in for. the lying down cases, gangs of Chinese coolies bell1g for the purpose: It also the method adopted dUrIng the operations 111 Natalm 1899-1900, where a bearer corps, r,200 strong, of European from Tra.nsvaal, and another corps of some 800 IndIan coolIes, wIth. a large num ber of stretchers, were formed. were of Il1calculable value in the transferring of the patIents from field hospitals to the trains. afte,r C?lenso, Spl.on Kop, and th e series of actIons near Pleter s BIll. (Details of the

(3) THE COLLECTION, PREPARATION, AN D U SE OF LOCAL VEHICLE S

It is on this that most reliance must be placed for auxiliary transport, and some idea should ?e formed of its amount in each locality, and how much of can. be handed over for medical services. One point, I thmk, IS not well understood in this connection. It is thought that the medical pressure for transport. IS occaslon.al only. If one remembers that there is a daIly ll1flow of SIck a?d that the balance between inflow and outflO\\' be mamtained one will realise that the pressure for aUXIlIary transport be and that it ,is an to suppose that it is only occasIonal. A certall1 therefore, of the available local material should be asslgned for the regular use of the service between ambulances, clearing hospitals, and raIlhead. But when blg. battles are pending the amount should be increased to ItS great.est possible limit and got. There has ?een no Important campaign in \vhlch thIS of has not been used in great quantItIes, an m ontmen armies there are definite arrangements for .trammg r:1en m peace in the methods of preparing the vehIcles of localities in a manner suitable for the transport of the SIck and wounded.

(4) THE USE OF FIELD RAILWAYS.

One of the most remarkable. features of .the war in Manchuria was the rapidity with whIch the RUSSIans clea:ed the field of masses of wounded Very few left behmd when they gave way the Japanese. was to the use made by the RUSSIans of the field ral!ways. D e cauville wagonettes were run as ar:1 .trams of twentyfive cars or less from the vanous posItIons held by the

r60 -FIRST

fighting troops to the main lir:e of railway, and. wounded were thus got away wIth the greatest rapldlty. Where there is a network of field railways, no better, easier, or more rapid method of transport, auxiliary to the transport of the medical units, can be imagined. It would be for the general and administrative staff to consider how far it can be placed at the disposal of the medical service during battle

(5) USE O F PERMANENT RAILWAYS.

The use of permanent railways is obvious, and when a line of rail is in working order in or near the area of operations, every possible advantage should be taken of it; as much rolling stock as possible should be brought up for the transport of sick and wounded in anticipation of a conflict, and a spot selected near the line, to which the slightly wounded can go direct. The use of the railway line for removing large numbers of sick and wounded during a retreat, by trains running in echelons at intervals of a few minutes, was practised with much success by the Russians at the battles of Liaoyang and Mukden.

(6) THE USE OF WATERWAYS

Waterways have been of use for auxiliary transport of sick and wounded direct from the battlefield, as, for example during th e battle of Omdurman. Where suitabl e boats or barg es are obtainable and a good waterway exists, transport by water is a form of transport that is the most favourable of all for the serious cases, and in anticipation of an engagement, preparations should be made for bringing boats as near the area of fighting as possible. Water·· ways are also of great advantage in th e evacuation zone. Excellent arrangements were made for utilising them after the battle of Dettigen in r 743, and the Soudan campaigns are examples of campaigns where a waterway would obviously become the main line of evacuation.

THE USE OF SPECIAL UNITS F OR REMOVAL OF SICK AND WO U NDED.

Very frequently the collection and preparati on of suitable transport material, the organisation of local transport resources in p ersonnel, &c., the improvisation of all kinds and means of transport, and the formation of rest or refreshment stations along the line of route are duties that will occupy the whole time and energies of a special organising and executive body of the medical service. This will be more especially the case where the hospitals are some distance from railhead, and when the removal of sick and wounded by road can only be effected by stages. In many continental armies and in Japan a special medical unit, called the "sick and wounded transport unit," is included in war establishments for this work, and is mobilised in the proportion of one such unit for each division. The question of having a similar unit in our war establishments is under consideration. At present it will be useful to remember that in the whole system of evacuation nothing in the Russo-J apanese war was more effective or more valuable than this small, independent, medical unit, and one should always contemplate the possibility of having to detail a small personn el for analogous duties in our own army, even though no such unit is defiitely laid down in establishments. It would undertake the whole work of organising local and other resources for clearing the field ambulances and the clearing hospitals ; it would establish rest stations as ordered along the line, and it would relieve the field am bulances and clearing hospitals of the anxiety and responsibillity of the executive work of filling up the gaps that must exist between them and the railhead. A transport unit of this kind should be to the clearing hospital what

AI D.- April, g09.

the bearer division is to the ambulance. On account of this and other administrative reasons it is a unit well worthy of the consideration of the general and administrative staff in the field.

3d. 3d. Allman's " FIRST AlD."

C rown 8vo 128 PAGES. Illu strated.

THE HU:MAN BODY.

A Sh ort Account of th e An a omica Arrangement of the vari ous Orga ns of th e Hum an Body.

By OWEN LANKESTER. M.R.C.S.

Ill ust rate d by a Moveable Figure sh owin g th e ex act position and rela tiv e size of th e Organ s of th e Body. Price 2/= Net.

By

FOOD FOR. THE SICK.

MARY TRUMAN. M.R.B.N.A., and EDITH SYKES. A,R.S,I. Crown 8vo, pa p e r co vers Price 3d.

ALLMAN & SON, Ltd., Publishers, 67, NEW OXFORD STREET, W.C., LONDON.

Aids to Memory for U First Aid" Students.

By L M, FRANK CHRISTIAN, M,B., C,M" EDIN, H otl. Life l!1"cmZ,e r 0/, and Examiner .Jor, tllc St /olm A mbula 11ce Associatio?l. Second Edition. Revised Throughout. Additional Photographs. " Th is valuable itt e rea tise has now bee n th oro ughly rev ised and b o ught u p t o date "-First A id ee T he mp r ovemen is ery marked, both in ext and ill ustrat on he su bs ti uti o n and the additions made h a, e tended Lo cons derab ly in c ease th e va lue of th e boo k n tb

FIRST AID.

The Independent Journal for the

and Fire Services.

To Our Readers.

As it is the wi sh and desire of the Proprietors to make thi s J ournal as in struc Live and entertaining as possible, corresponden ts in all parts of the country are asked to give it all the help they can.

Superintendents of Corps and Officers of Divisions of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, Officers of the Royal Army Medical Corps (Territorials), the Volunteer Ambulance School of Instruction, and Chief Officers of Fire Brigades will, it is hoped, do their best to make it known amongst the members of their respective organi sa ions, and will also send for publication their official new s and notices. Suggestions are invited fo r Prize Competitions and other matters which will ndvance the interest of the] ouma!.

We p a rticularl y desire to ask our correspondent s to be brief and to the point in any communications they may send us for publication. Correspondents sending in photos are ur g ently requested to s at e on the back of the same the name of the indi vidual or the Corps or Brigade and give also the name and address o f the sender.

We beg to advi se our readers that we do not pay for ph otograph s or co py sent, unless previously agreed upon in writing.

" First Aid" is published on the 20th of the month.

EDITORIAL.

are so great that we cannot condemn the Bill as a whole. The clause which renders it compulsory on parents to properly safeguard their children against the peril of the open grate has been the theme of Coroners in all parts of the United Kingdom for many a long year. Equall y requisite was legislation to stop cigarette smoking amongst the juvenile portion of the community, for it is an admitted fact that the practice was steadily undermining the physique of the youth of this c ountry This has been amply proved, since the compulsory medical examination of the children attending our elementary schools was commenced, for the medical officers in many districts have reported to their Committees , that, they have found that boys of the age of eleven and upwards, were inferior in height and physique to girls of a like age.

The Childrens' Charter.

THE recent legislation on behalf of the younger generation of this country has not received unstinted praise at the hands of all classes of the community. Such was hardly to be expected , for we suppose there never was an Act of Parliament yet passed that did not meet with disapproval in some quarters, on account of either its interference with vested interests, or some other equally delicate question.

We do not propose, however, to approach this question from a political point of view. The discussion of politics in our columns is wisely barred by those who have the conducting of FIRST AID, for amongst its readers are numbered partisans of every political school of thought, who, recognising our strict impartiality, are invariably more or less in sympathy with the views which we may from time to time express, on any subject of domestic legislation. That the Children's Charter will require some amendment we are willing to admit; that some of its provisions, if harshly administered, will cause unnecessary hardship, and possibly inflict penalties upon innocent individuals in certain localities, we will also concede; but surely some steps can be taken to amend the Act where it errs in this direction. The value of many of its clauses

Another clause, that which deals with the administration of alcoholic li q uors to children of a tender age, b y either dissolute or careless persons, will, we are sure, hav e the unqualified approval of all parties, no matter what their general view on the liquor question m3Y be We are no carping critics, nor are we going to suggest that this grand old country is becomin g decadent. We believe that properly safe-guarded against the temptations, which are perhaps with in too easy reach of th e youth in our large towns and cities, the grit of this country will be found in the future, as in the past, equal to any emergency which it may be called upon to face. We have several cogent reasons for this optimism, firstly, the death rate from such diseases as tuberculosis and similar ailments is slowly, perhaps, but still nevertheless steadily decreasing, owing to the improvement in the hygienic and sanitary conditions which are evident all around. The forma t ion of Boys ' Brigades, too, in connection with our churches and chapels and other institutions, must all tend to raise, not only the national physique, but we believe it will also materially aid in the moral up-lifting of the national character. In these grand organisations lads are led by personal influence to prefer the clean life, and to recognise that there is nothing manly in the pursuit of vicious pleasure. To all of those inestimable men, aye, and women, too, who are engaged in the promotion of the organisations to which we have alluded, we wish, in all sincerity, the success to which they are so fully entitled.

The

-FIRST I nter= Railway and " Dewa r " Shields Competitions.

THE I TER-RAILWAY SHIELD.

TWENTY-FIVE railway teams were represented at the preliminary competition which was held at St. John's Gate, on Thursday and Friday, April 29th and 30th .to eight teams to compete in the final stage whIch, as 10 previous years, was fixed to be held at the Portman Rooms. As a result at the conclusion of the contest, it was announced that the following had secured the premier positions, and were thus entitled to appear at the Portman Rooms, on May 7th, in order to decide for the year the championship in the Railway Ambulance world:- The Midland and Great Northern Joint; London and NorthWestern Mersey North Staffordshire j Cheshire Lines Committee Lancashire and Yorkshire; Great Western and the Alexandra Docks and Railway. Considerable surprise

was manifest in railway circles at the absence from the final of such redou btable champions as the Great Eastern and N orthEastern Railways, as the members of both teams were old and seasoned competitors, and thoroughly well-grounded in both practical and theoretical work, in fact it has been argued more than once that what they don't know about the text -boo k isn't worth knowing. Still every year competitive work gets keener, and as is well known, at the final which is open to the public, the audience grouped around the railway contest is invariably composed largely of railway men, many of them possibly those who have been beaten in the preliminary round. What more natural then, but that these men should be keenly in-

AI

D.- May, 19 0 9.

presentation had as usual been made by Mr. W. R. Q:dwards, the Accountant to the Order, and were in every d e tail satisfactory, the whole working without a hitch from start to finish.

The Judges deputed by the Committee to give the final arbitratment were Lieut. -Col. Twiss, R.A.M.C., Southampton, and Dr. L. M. Frank Stockport, and we have no reason to doubt but that their award was loyally accepted by the whole of the competing teams. The tests were as follows :-

STRETCHER WORK.

Four men, Nos. I, 2, 3 and 4, are at work at a country station, hearing a cry No. 4 looks up and sees No. S in the act of falling from a low roof; he lies where he fell. Act as should be done in tbe emergency stated.

Patient is insensible, and it is noticed that right temple is swollen and discoloured, tbe face is pale and pupils equal. Scarlet blood spurts out in jets from a large wound of palm of right hand, in which fragments of slate are seen. The patient's home is in the village half-a- mile distant. The nearest doctor several miles away.

INDIVIDUAL WORK. INJURIES.

1. Wound severing right axillary artery.

2. Bite by mad dog on bare right forearm which is badly torn. Treat the case and explain with reasons the steps you take.

3· Gunshot wound causing fracture of metatarsal bones of left foot wi th arterial bleeding.

4· Schafer s method Of artificial respiration.

S· Patient falls heavily, breakin5 both bones of right forearm. You have four bandages in your overcoat pocket. No wooden splints are allowed.

QUESTIONS.

I. What are the general rules for the treatment of insensibili ty?

2. Give the signs, symptoms and treatment of dislocation?

WOLVERIIAMPI0N TEAM.

WIN TERS OF THE INTER-RAILW AY SHIELD. terested critics of the tactics adopted by their more successful rivals, and as a result of what they pick up, they go home and set themselves the task of not only learning how to play their opponent's game, but how to improve upon their methods.

THE FINAL.

The Portman Rooms presented quite a national appearance on May 7th, the day fixed for the final struggle; here were gathered together railway men from all parts of England and Wales, all evidently keenly interested in the struggle, and all more or less anxious as to the result, which would settle for another year the location of the handsome trophy, which is justly regarded as the "blue ribband" of the railway world. Additional interest was given to the proceedings this year owing to the fact that H.R.H. the Princess of Wales, who is a Lady of Justice of the Order had graciously consented to attend and present the trophy' and prizes to the successful competitors.

The arrangements for the competition and subsequent

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as the" blue ribband" of that organisation, were held in all of the seven districts. We have been favoured with the particulars of some of these, but r eg ret that the space at our disposal will only admit of our briefly reporting them

The annual preliminary competition for the right to represent the No. 3 District took place at Leicester, and was held in St. Martin's Schools, Friar-lane, on Saturday, April 24th. As a result Cromer secured the premier position, with the right to represent the District, N ext in order came Birmingham, Wellingbo:-ough, and Wigston (Midland Railway). This is the first time that a team froL11 East Anglia has obtained this COVEted honour.

The competing squads in NO.4 District met at Preston on April 24th, the competition taking place in the rooms of the Y.M.C.A. The judges were Assistant Commissioner Whittaker and District Chief Supt. A. L. Garnett, who submitted the various teams to a fairly stiff ordeal. In making their award, the judges referred in terms of high commendation to the work of the winning team, and mentioned' as somewhat remarkable that it was the first time within their knowledge that thewinning team had held the lead in each portion of the competition, the second team had also headed the third team in each part. Ten teams originally entered, but two of these withdrew, the result being that Kendal was first with I64 points Brierfield second with r 5r points; and Accrington third with I45 points. The other competing teams were Preston, Horwich (Bolton) and Crompton.

AID. -

up over-night. They were a smart well set-up body ot men, and each district has a right to be proud of its representatives. We were particularly struck with the Kendal Team. It will be in the recollection of our readers that last year this team finished second in the contest-being beaten by the team from No. 3 District (Northampton) by the narrow margin o f one point. Upon this occasion they had evidently made up their minds to make a great effort to secure the trophy, and there was an air of quiet confidence about them which augured well for their success, and one could not fail to be impressed by the smart and skilful way in which their work was performed when working together as a stretcher squad.

The Judges were Hon. Surgeons J. M. Carvel (London) and A. J. Nelson (Birkenhead), and they put the various teams through a thoroughly practical examination. QUESTIONS.

3· What would make you suspect that a person was suffering from the effect of eating poisonolls fish?

State, in detail, how you would act in such a case.

4· If after a case of accident you saw brandy or whisky about to be t? the patient by anyone but a doctor, what would you feel1l1chned to suggest as a substitute?

S· State in what cases cold should be used in first aid.

At the conclusion of the competition the decision of the Judges was announced, the teams fitlishing in the following order :1.

London and North Western Lancashire and Yorkshire

Midland and Great Northern Joint

Alexandra Docks and Railway

Mersey

North Staffordshire

Cheshire Lines Committee

8

Great Western

232t points.

2Isl

THE COMPETITION FOR THE "DEWAR" TROPHY.

Preliminary contests for the right to compete for this valuable trophy, which in Brigade circles is justly regarded

Abergavenny was the town selected for the teams in No. 7 District to meet at, and the competition was held in the Town Hall on April 24th. The winning team p.ot only secures the right to repref:ent the District in the "Dewar competition, but also becomes the holder for twelve months, of the handsome " Griffiths" Cup, presented to the .by Deputy CommIssioner Griffiths (No. 2 DIstrIct) 10 of his late brother Dr. Arthur Griffiths, who dId so much to promote the progress of the .district. in its early days, and whuse memory is still warmly The judge was Col. Cureton, V.D. (Deputy CommlsslOner), and at the close of the contest he anr:ounced result as follows ;- Mardy (Rhondda) first WIth r67 i Abergorky second with I PO.ntypool thIrd ;i'lth 114 points; Tredegar fourth WIth 96 POInts and Bedlll10g fifth with 74 points.

W!I'NERS OF THE

The cup and prizes were subsequently handed to the winners by His Worship the Mayor of Abergavenny (Major Williams). THE FINAL.

The several teams selected to represent their respective districts were punct\lal in attendance, some had travelled

sling; (b) the :small arm sling?

2. A man has injured his ankle. It is swollen, discoloured and painful. I t is doubtful whether or not the foot is quite straight. What are the possible injuries that may have taken place?

3. What are the organs contained in the abdomen and what are signs and sy mptoms of injury to each?

4. What are the causes of asphyxia?

5. What are the symptoms and treatment of a case of poisoning by prussic acid?

INDI VIDUAL I NJURIES

I. Treat a case of hremorrhage from a wound in the upper third of the right femoral artery, with the appliances provided. The accident has happened out-of-doors. By-standers are present.

2. Treat a simple fracture of both clavicles with the appliances provided, the accident bas happened outof- doors. Bystanders are present.

1. Under what conditions do you use ( a) the larg e arm "DEWAR" SHIELD.

3. Treat a burst varIcose vein, with much in centr e of calf of right leg,. with the appliances provided. The accident has happened mdoors.

4. Treat a fracture of the 6t h and 7th ribs (le ft s.ide), bone penetrating lun g, with appliances h.an? ACCident has happened out-of-doors, no assistance IS wlthm call.

5. Treat a case of bJeeding from carotid artery, with the appliances at hand. The aCCident has happened indoors.

STRETCHER INJ URY.

This man was riding when his horse reared up aI?-d he came out of the saddle. He is unable to stand; complams of a good deal of pain in upper of his :ight lower tremity, the foot of which IS Iymg 011: ItS SIde. hOI se also trod on his right hand, there IS swellll1g, deformity and c repitus about the metacarpel bones

Treat with appliances at hand;. stretcher; carry to hospital I mile distant. The patIent IS a nea\'y man.

The Jud ge s announced the result as follows ;-

-FIRST

I. Kendal, Ko. 4 District, "pe:-var':,Shield... 239t points.

2. Sittingbourne, No.2 DIstrict, Symons Eccles" Cup 225

3. Mardy (Wales ) NO·7 Di s trict

4. Ilkeston, NO·5 District 214

5. Ley ton and Leytonstone, No. District... 21

6. Hylton Colliery, No.6 District

7. Cromer, o. 3 District 204 "

The handsome trophies and valuable prizes had as usual been tastefully displayed upon the platform in the adjacent room, and had been much admired by a large number of the audience who were present.

THE PRESENTATION OF PRIZES.

The presentation ceremony, which was presided over by the Marquis of Breadal bane was very brief, as upon this occasion there were no soeeches. The names of the respective teams were announced by the Honorary Secretary to the Competition Committee (Mr. Edwards) when they at once lined up facing the front of the platform, each man receiving in turn his prize from the hands of the gracious lady who had so highly honoured them by consenting to attend and make the presentation.

In response to a call from Mr. J. Bishop (Centre Sec. L. & N. W. Ry.) three cheers were given for the Princess. Surely it will be a red letter day in the life of each man. The prize will be handed down as a cherished heirloom, and in the days to come the story will no doubt often be recounted of how the recipient qualified to represent his district in the National contest for 1909, and received at the hands of England's future Queen, the award his skill had gained. How the telling of the story will arouse the enthusiasm of the youngsters to whom the tale is told, inspiring them to added zest in the proscecution of the humanitarian work which is so fully typified in the motto of the grand old Order, to the members of which the nation owes the inception and its subsequent career of usefulness.

INSURING AMBULANCES.-A policy has been entered into by Lloyds for the insurance against third-party and other risks at 45s. per vehicle of the fifty ambulances in use by the Metropolitan Asylums Board.

In account of the G.E.R. competitions, which appearpd m our last month's issue, we regret we omitted to mention the name of Dr. W. A. Gill who acted as one of the judges in conjunction with Dr. Howard.

Mr. Roper, the of our last month's competition has drawn our attentlOn to an error which occurred in connection with the trea1ment of No. 10 Case, with the request that we should correct it in our next issue. We have much in complying with Mr. Roper's request, and regret that It should have occurred. " N ext is Case 10. Having pu.t on cold antiseptic dressing at first, should no:", gently straIghten the limb, but not apply extension owmg to the danger to the femoral artery being lacerated, apply cotton wool and bandage. Two splz'nts Izavino- been f etched, I should place one .from armpit to beyond tlze other .from the .fork to .foot, undo the improvised tourniquet to embrace the outer splmt, bandage round chest, hips (above and below fracture), leg, both knees, ankles and feet. Place on cover up, load on to one seat of a wagonette whIch had been sent, cover well place pillow under head." The lines in italics were the' ones left out and the ommissions of which the suggested treatment somewhat unintelligible.

Lincoln Corps, S.J.A.B.

INAUGURATION OF NEW HORSE AIVIBULANCE VAN, AND NEW HEADQUARTERS.

FOR some time a movement has been on foot to collect funds for the provision of a horse ambulance van for Lincoln, and at the annual dinner of the corps in 1908 the project was launched in real earnest. The idea was to have one that should, if possible, be the last word in such a conveyance, and not to spare reasonable expense in attaining that end. Some valuable hints were gleaned by a deputation that visited the dep6t of the Metropolitan Asylums Board and the Red Cross Exhibition in 19 0 7. With these, and such other details as could be gathered, the work was proceeded with, and placed in the hands of Mr. A. D. Bates, a local carriage builder.

In the meantime the Corparation was approached with a view to securing the old Fire Engine Station as the headquarters of the corps. As the corps is composed of three divisions, the latest formed of which is the City Police Force, it was felt the application would receive a sympathetic consideration. In the end the prc:mises were allotted to the corps at the nominal rent of half-a-crown a year. These have been fitted out, all except movable furniture, and include a room for the horse ambulance van, orderly room and club room, as well as a small parade room. There is also a large open space available in fine weather for drill.

All was in readiness by May 1st, and a large audience assem bled in the drill hall of the Territorials. Among those present were Lord and Lady Londesborough, the Chief Commissioner (Inspector General B. Ninnis), the Mayoress of Lincoln, and the District Chief Surgeon (Surgeon Major West Symes). Councillor A. C. Newsum, J.P., a friend of the corps, occupied the chair in the unavoidable absence of the Mayor. After bouquets had been presented to Lady Londesborough and the Mayoress, Acting-Chief Surg. Lambert (Dis. Supt. of Stores) gave a general statement. He traced the rise of the work in Lincoln from February 17 th , 18 97, the formation of a c orps a year or two since, and gave the present strength at 10 officers and 122 rank and file. Gradually the corps had got together a litter, wall boxes in prominent places in the city, the "Newsum" challenge cup for individual competition, and the "Lambert" challenge bowl, for squad competition, both being of silver. The latest acquisitions were the van and headquarters, to be opened that day. A movement had also been started to raise 2,000 annnal subscriptions of one shilling.

Mr. W. Mortimer, J.P., Treasurer of the Van Fund, noted that the total expense of building and equipment would s\)mewhat exceed £ 170. The mem bers of the corps had raised in small sums no less than £ 26.

After addresses by the Chairman and Chief Commissioner, the latter of whom gave some interesting information relative to the Order of St. John and the status of the brigade, Lady Londesborough distributed certificates and medallions to two First Aid, and one Nursing class, as well as small replicas of the challenge bowl in silver to each of the s.quad who won it-this, through the generOSIty of the sherIff (Captain H. E. Newsum).

Londesborough then opened the van, and was presented WIth a photograph of it. Members of the corps afterwards demonstrated the methods of loading and unloading.

On adjourning to Free School Lane, Chief Supt. DeIghton presented a silver key to the Mayoress, who unlocked the door of the new headquarters, the Chief

-FIRST

Commissioner accepting the premises in the name of the Brigade and the Corps.

Lord and Lady Londesborough announced that they would give £20 and £10 respectively to the Van Fund, which leaves but a few pounds ne.eded to complete the payment of the expenses of full

The usual votes of thanks were heartIly accorded.

The vehicle is intended for the conveyance of ar:y kind of non-infectious cases, in the. city and. the country diStricts within a radious of twelve n:llles. If thought a certificate of freedom from infection or from WIth infection may be required. novel and .lmproved features have been introduced mto It.S .constructJ.on. The body which has a canopy over the dnvmg seat, IS framed up id English oak, panelled with the whole being nicely varnished and fimshed m the natural woods. The rubber-tyred wheels, under-works, &c., are finished in straw colour, relieved with a tan shade of .brown to harmonise with the panels on the of the vehicle

The ventilation of the van is a speCIal feature, as, m addition to drop ventilators on each. side, an exhaust roof ventilator has been fitted, to the deSIgn of Dr. F. S. Lambert. This, although llllowing of the free passage outwards

AID.-

so constructed that it does not catch the rubber tyre, but rests only on the edge of the Turning .to th.e interior, it may be said that prOVISIOn for two IS made in addition to attendants. A great feature IS that the of the van is level, there being no well at the rear or beams to step over. Along one side of the van there are two stretchers upon special elevating gear: One stretcher is arranged above the other, and can be raIsed or lowered by means of quadrant cog gear, which is very easily worked. By this arrangement a patient on the top stretcher can be lowered to a sufficient extent to enable him or her to be carried out of the van with great ease. And whilst the stretcher is being lowered it is still kept in a perfectly horizontal position, thus ensuring the patient being practically undisturbed. The stretchers are upon rollers, upon which they are slid along the elevatm.g ge:1.r, and the springs are so arranged when the van. IS travelling the stretchers are perfectly stIll, there not bemg the slightest jolting.

At the other side of the van there IS a 11ft-up seat for the use of attendants. Two electric lam are fixed 0l! the roof, and a moveable electric hand-lamp IS also this can be carried to any part of the van and wIll be

f h inner air precludes any down-draught, and is abso1 0 tIe ther p' roof Each of the two doors at the rear of ute y wea - '. . h b d Iso fitted WIth ventilators at t e ottom, an the van are a h "d Th t 'l tors are adJ'usted at WIll from t e mSI e. e these ven I a f h b tt ventilation is obtained by away ,?ne 0 teo om 1 f h do or and allowmg the aIr to enter through Pane s 0 eac , Co d t' d f d " c partition The doors are ¥Jtte ou Sl e a per orate zm· d h ecial automatic fastener, and when opene t ey WIth a :Pd from swinging about. The dnver's seat IS full width of the body of the van,. and accommodation of three passengers, m addltlOn to or 'f uired Under the dnver's ftet there are the dnver I the outside gear of the vehicle is two drawers, m w kept. Communication from the interior of the can be bI' hed with the driver by means of a speakll1g tube, esta 1S enious device the step at the rear of the ::0 closed up the doors are and ve b f the doors are opened, the of go:v n the control of the dnver. 1S a p,?,:,erful emg n the hind wheels of the van, and m attaching to one of the wheels. This shpper IS

d 1 f 1 The unique feature of the interior foun extreme y use u .' d h f the van is the cabinet which IS sItuated un er t e °d' 's seat It has a roll front, similar to a roll desk, nver . ., d and and comprises eight drawers,. contamll1g ress;gs Th other re uisites a wash-bas111, and. water-tan . e d ressings kep't in quantities convel1lent .for use, and t.hhe d fixed 111 drawers WIt various small utenSIls requIre a:e d k t all added partitions. Each draw.er IS. flange., to eep ou f as far as possible, and is ll1scnbed WIth the 0 Th as h-basin is so arranged that It can be the contents. e w . . f h h f d from the cabinet to the wtenor 0 t evan, broug t orwar Th k . and can be slid to the water tank, to fill. e tan k IS de of block copper, tinned inside, and can be ta en ma. 1 bodily There is a tap at one corner, and at from Its pace 'lace for filling the tank. A great the other end. a t k is that it can be put on a fire and and the tank replacefd without d A man 0 average the water being handle 111 any wa\h ease and there is height can move about the van WI f t's Under the ample room for and shorter stretchers, cases b splints, together with paddmgs, are kept.

(Lillcoln CM·oJlicle. LINCOLN CORPS NEW AMBULAKCE Y AN.

Artificial lit Respiration.

CHANCES OF RESUSCITATION OVERRATED.

WHO shall decide when doctors disagree? N ever was truer query propounded. It is only a short months since that Professor Schafer came along wIth a new method for restoring the apparently drowned, it was tried in competition, so to speak, with the older . and as a result was finally adopted by the several SocIetIes, whose mission it is to teach this' important subject. On March 3 rd however, along comes Professor Keith and practically po;h poohs the art of artificial respiration altogether. In the course of a lecture on the subject given at the Royal College of Surgeons, on March 3rd, the said "It is usually believed that cases are seldom, If ever, recovered after an immersion of five minutes, and, further that It IS really only one case in ten which is recovered by the aid of artificial respiration but, as that tenth case cannot be recognised at sight, it is necessary to perform. it.in every If properly performed it can do no harm If Improperly, It may destroy the possibility of recovery. In fact, said the Professor, I consider it highly probable that more cases are lost by artificial respiration being applied wrongly than by no artificial respiration being applied at all. Continuing he expressed the opinion that the value of this method as a means of recovering apparently dead people is overestimated, for during a period in which artificial respiration was very little employed the percentage of failures was smaller than it is now, when it is regarded as the essential, almost only, means.

Professor Keith confessed that his mind was open to the conviction that the ancient method of mouth to mouth, or, better, mouth to nose, insufflation with expiratory compression of the chest, may prove the more method. "At least," he said, "if it should happen that I should be found in lin apparently drowned condition, I sincerely hope that my rescuer will apply this prompt method to me as my first aid. It is air that my lungs and blood would want, not pressure, for, if the pulmonary circulation has ceased, such pressure is, upon the evidence at present at our disposal, more libly to weaken than strengthen the heart."

The " Clarnico " Ambulance Corps.

THE enormous strides made by science in comparatively recent years, and the introduction of complicated machinery and labour-saving devices into our modern factories, the advent of electricity and other motive power has all helped to greatly increase the danger to which the workers of the present day are subject. It is said that "accidents will happen" and in everyday life we know this is only too true. Accidents, more or less serious, are constantly happening in our large works and the risks run by the work people are indeed great. Some firms fully realise this, while others, although alive to their responsibilities, have done nothing to cope with the danger. Fortunately the law now makes it necessary for employers of labour to minimise as far as possible, the danger to which their employes may be subjected and holds them liable for any injury arising from their failure to take proper precautions. Some of our large factories now have trained am bulance squads and these on many occasions have been the means of doing good work in alleviating the sufferings of their fellow workmen. Other firms, however, and unfortunately

far too many, are content to rely solely on outside aid in case of need, giving no thought to the increased danger to which the injured person may be liable owing to the delay which must necessarily occur. Foremost amongst the firms in the Metropolis which have shown that they have the interests of their employes at heart is the well-known confectionary firm of Messrs. Clarke, Nickolls & Coombs, of Hackney Wick, N., whose works cover acres, and who owing to the nature of the trade carned on and the number of persons employed" '- -2,50o of both sexes-are always liable to the occurrence of some accident. To deal with such emergencies Messrs. Clarke, Nickolls & Coombs keep on the premises a trained ambulance corps to render aid in cases of necessity.

The firm have also an efficient and fully equipped fire brigade attached to the works. for the purpose of protecting the numerous buildings and the valuable property contained therein against fire. The brigade consists of about IS° men drawn from different departments, and is under the control of Capt. G. M. Horn (Border Regiment), a director of the firm. Thirty-four of the mem bers constitute the ambulance section, and no expense has been spared to make the men efficient; in fact, it is safe to say that the "Clarnico" Ambulance Corps could hold their own against any am bulance team in the country.

Their ambulance equipment is complete in every detail. There are three ambulance wagons, one drawn by four horses, the other two being one-horse vehicles. The large wagon contains slings for suspending the stretchers on which the patients are to be conveyed to hospital. There is also a supply of stimulants for the sufferers, including coffee, cocoa, soup, etc. Tbe smaller vans contain stretchers ready for use, and all the nececessary rugs, oils, water casks, stimulants, etc. The corps possesses a variety of stretchers, and in addition to the ordinary type there are one or two of a special character. One is the telescopic" Veleda "s tretcher, which was fully described in our columns a short time since. Another is a bicycle ambulance, which consists of two bicyles, one being of special construction. This machine is jointed and so arranged that the two wheels can be placed parallel one with the other. The frame of the machine extends forward and the canvas is stretched over it. This done, the frame is then fastened to the back of the second machine, and a bandy conveyance is thus formed. The whole operation of converting the two bicycles into the am bulance occupies only one or two minutes.

The equipment also includes an ambulance tent, which can be easily pitched in a very short time, and to form a temporary hospital. It would be extremely useful in case of a serious explosion or other catastrophe which might result in a number of accidents. Should this tent not prove large enough, a portion of the dining ball attached to the works can in a short space of time be fitted up as a temporary hospital, so that it will be seen that the firm is always prepared for any emergency. The men are specially trained to keep cool in case of emergency, and to practice artificial respiration, how to administer simple and safe remedies in cases of poisoning, and to guard the victims of sudden illness from the further dangers of injudicious handling 0.1' neglect.

Although the men are thoroughly proficient in bandaging, &c., this work is left to more delicate fingers. Twenty of the girls employed in the works have been instructed in nursing and provid e d with a regulation nursing uniform. These nurses are attached to the Ambulance Section of the Brigade and deal with the more delicate work, which they are more fitted to carry out tban are the men of the

May, 1909· FIRST

. I cases of fire the aid of these nurses for treating SectIOn n b ns and scalds would be invaluable. They and instructress and occasionally have h a 11 to make them smart and a be suddenly and unexpectedly called mto reqUlsltion serVIces reservation of the lives of the people comfor the Ph. h It must bp remembered that when mitted to t elr c arge. -. thO k but

I m Of fire is given there is no tIme to m, an a ar . t be prompt and efficacIOUS. actIOn mus b 1 it should be mentioned, are also The am u ance men, b· d k .n firemen and take their part 111 fire rIga e 1 tra111ed th other members of the bngade. the same manner as e ... the Weekly drills are to mer· the men s re a IV b sum) ortion of the display is to am ube presen\ A on these occasions a good Idea of the lance the ambulance section is of splen 1 . d At the last annual dIsplay a performmg can be .game. ualled by any organisation of superb show was gIven, uneq

AI D.-

t · ated for not only is it of value to the men in over es 1m , 1 [ h h b' 11' fe but is also useful In pnvate e, were t elr usmess , [ fi .d [ten occur for the rendenng 0 rst al , opportumtles may 0 ., h which in almost every case is In lesscmng t e of the atient and In some cases may be the suffenn g f PI'f T' he "Clarnico" Ambulance Brigade means 0 saving 1 e. . h is trained by competent experts, men well kn?wn In t e medical world, while their comma.nd.er,. Horn, a allant army officer and strict spares no g ake his men second to none m efficlen.cy. To has succeeded is b.ut a. mild expresslOn as a d:monstrat ion of th e ir capabIlItIes WIll pro.ve. h h ge It will be readily understood that In suc . a u factory accidents of som.e th ambulance men bemg 1S n u .' I e in their various occupations, are lmmedlate y engaged h'd t The average number of cases available for aCCI s. b t 800 thus proving that treated here 111 one yebar IS a h has a more practical this is no show team, ut one w IC

"CLARNICO" Al\lBULANCE

d the ambulance section carried its kind 111 the world, an k Several of the youths emout some really smart wO;h· patients each one bearing a ployed in the works e The' nurses were first on label giving a supposed of bandaging accord.ing to the scene, and gave a ISP (- lar case While thIS was the requirements of each par ICU ed w·ith stretchers and h b lance vans arIlV in progress team u Th tent was promptly pitched, and the ambulance tent. e h t A spirit stove was the red cross flag hoisted on t e aOpPp·liances and stimulants . d the necessary then set gomg, an hand the whole formin!S, 111 fac.t, a we:e soon ready to .t I 'Their injuries havmg receIved complete field hOSpi a . 'efully lifted on to the . h t" nts were car h attentIOn, tepa. t the tent amid the applause of t e stretchers and carne 1,0 as subsequently inspected by a onlookers. The wor \. w t nd fire brigade officers, and number of ambulance .expel s ad .1 11 t 111 every etal. b pronounced exce en sation as this cannot e The value of such an orgam

than falls to the lot of the majority of ambulance expenence teams. k I they have met with success. In competitIOn wor a so. of the red crosS f f the are 111 possessIOn I Twenty- our o. 'bad e ranted by the Nationa ambulance certIficate and gf g the Brigade won the U' and a team rom .., BrIgades B' d s Union Ambulance Cup, at National FJre rIga h e bulance cup of the London Felixsto.we, a?d also t e r: N ovem ber last.

Fire BrIgades always available to render ald

With such m e n as ese I at the "Clarnico" to th eir fellow thde knowing full Works should have .IIttle·11rea ? e skilful a'ttention from h' J'unes WI recelv h well that t elr 111 d h have been trained, by t e those of their es w 0 'd 'ate employers-a firm f theIr ever conSI el b II generosity 0 Ie and one that would e we which set a firms to whose care the worth bemg followe Yorkers are entrusted. valuable lives of so many w

Brevities.

V1SCOUNTESS ESHER, who is making so great an E'ffort on behalf of the ambulance movement in the Metropolis, is a Lady of Grace of the Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem in England. Lady Esher is highly cultured and has se\-eral hobbies, the principal of which is her love of the antique. In her London house in TiIney-street, and at Orchard Lea, Windsor Forest, are to be seen some of the finest examples of old furniture to be found in this country. She has thrown herself heart and soul into the first aid movement, and if example counts for anything, the result of her efforts should be a most gratifying increase in the nl!mber of ladies in society possessed of a knowledge of Ii rst aid. Two classes for ladies, we beli :! ve, are now in active progress, and as the lectures are being given by Mr. James Cantlie, the popular author of the Association's Text Book, and Lieut. Col.-Lees Hall, it may be safely assumed that they will prove both popular and interesting. Lady Esher is of starling several more classes in different parts of London, and it is lIrged that ladies desirous of joinin g should write to her at once to 2, Tilney-street, Mayf.lir, when they will be advised of the nearest class, and its date of starting. Viscountess Esher says that she is desirous that women who join these classes should feel that by making themselves efficient in first aid work in time of peace, they will be of the greatest possible assistance tJ the Territorial Force, should this country ever unfortum.tely be engaged in a war which might severely tax the resources of the Army MedicaJ Dc-partment. With the knowledge they will have acquired they will be capable uf rendering first aid to the wounded, and perhaps in their own homes, and by so doing they will be taking part in the defence of their country.

WE welcome the addition of Lady Esher to the ranks of those other patriotic women, who believe with her that women have a right to take some part in the defence of their country. To those of our readers who may have the necessary influence, we say urge any of your friends, who may not have gained this useful knowledge, to join one of these classes, and to take an early opportunity of doing so. . Correspondents should mark their letters" First Aid," and state the municipal borough in which they reside. We Wish Lady Esher every success in her mission, and we can only regret that the ladies who form the militant section of the womens' suffrage movement cannot be persuaded to devote a little of their misplaced enthusiasm to this cause which is essentially one for women, and one in which they may have every opportunity to serve their country.

FROl\I Capt. Hedley Peters (South Eastern District), Lleut. Hughes (North Wales District), and e.O. Woollard (Eastern District) N.F.B.U" we have received copies of the

AI D.- May, 190 9.

Annual Reports of their respective districts. We regret that pressure upon our space this month precludes our dealing with them as fully as we should have liked to have done. They are all a record of good work done and satisfactory progress made, ' and we heartily congratulate all three gentlemen upon the result of their years' work. The duties of Honorary to such important districts as the three quoted above are no sinecure, and we fully believe that the executive in each case recognise this fact, and appreciates to the fullest extent the valuable services rendered. * * *

By the retirement of Supt. Ely from the Chief Officership of the Leicester Fire Brigade the service has once more to regret the loss of one of its most skilled and able exponents. Supt. Ely has made a name which is known and respected far outside the boundary of the borough over whose fire department he so ably ruled, and we are sure that there are firemen in many parts of the country, who will miss his kindly presence at those gatherings at which he was wont to take an active part, either as judge or chairman. We are sure that Supt. Ely will carry with him in his retirement the good wishes of all his old friends for hi::; future, and may his well-earned rest be brightened by the remembrance of a life well in the service of his fellows, and duty well and faithfully performed. Supt. Ely has been granted a retiring allowance of ,£120 per annum by the Leicester Town Council. In moving the adoption of the report, Alderman Tollington expressed, on behalf of the Committee, the great regret which was felt by all at Supt. Ely's continued ill-health.

THE retirement of Capt. Hamilton from the command of the London Fire Brigade Service came as a complete surprise to most people, who had anticipated for the gallant officer a long tenure of the office which he has so ably fillEd for the last few years, in fact, some ot us who saw th.e Captain's "laddie" in full fire array, at the Mansion House, were led to wonder whether, as in the case of Birmingham, the post may one day descend from a worthy sire to a no less worthy son. Joking apart, is it too much to hope that on tJis occasion, the Fire Brigade Committee will not go outside the ranks of its own Brigade to look for a successor. The present officers have earned the right of promotion, by the loyal and whole-hearted way in which they have always carried out the duties of their office. They have an intimate knowledge of the methods of fire extinction, as applicable to the Metropolis, it is not fair, therefore, that they should be called upon to train a novice to fill the appointment, which, one of their own number is so fully qualified to hold.

When corresponding with Advertisers please mention "First Aid."

May, 1 90 9· -F IR ST

Our Po rtrait Galle ry.

I,ADY P ERROTT , LADY OF J UST ICE OF 1HE ORDER OF THE HO SP IT AL OF ST. JOHN OF JER USALEM IN ENGLAND.

THE lady whose portrait graces "Our "this month , ell known as the wife of the popular Chlef Secretary of St. John Am bulance Association, but it is we believe, so generally known how mu c h of own time and leisure Lady Perrott Hospitals. an? other Institutions baving as their aim or objective the

AID.- 16 9

co-hon. secretary being abroad for the greater part of the time. The result, however, must in a great measure compensated her ladyship for ,the time an? labour which the production of the entertainment entailed, the total receipts amounted to £2,892 4s. and as the expenditure was kept within the modest limIts of £4 2 5 3s 3d the promot;:)rs were enabled to hand over the handsome balance of £2,440 IS. 6d. to the of the .British Ophthalmic Hospital at J m ald of whICh the entertainment had been orgamsed, Lady Perrott has also promoted .vari?us funds. in aid of the followin a objects:-The V lctona Hospltal for Children, a nd the South African Colonization Society.

She has organised, under the spe.clal patronage of H.R.H. Princess Christian, bazaars at Wmdsor, to help the Royal Albert Institute and Parish Church Fund, and the Maternity Home, which was to help women whose husbands fell in the South Afncan War. _

A ba zaa r was also organised by her laayshlp m aid of the Central Schools, at Plumstead, which, it may be mentioned, are in the vicinity of Sir Herbert's old ,

It is of interest to recall, and it may be wlthm the recollection of some of our read ers, that a few years back Lady Perrott was specially invited by the late Colonel Knott to perform the ceremony of" l:>reakmg flag" at the Portsmouth Infirmary, upon which occasIOn she had the uniqu e distinction of a guard of honour, comDosed of veteran blue jackets, many of whom had sp.rved under her gallant father-the late Captain Marcus Hare.

In the ambulance movement Lady Perrott has been a keen and acti.ve worker, organising classes aL l?c!r own house and at ladies houses in the Metropolts. She is also a Vice President of the Portsmouth and Southampton Centres.

relief of sickness or suffering, o.r the b,rightening of th e lives of those of her sex whose eXistence IS often passed In cruwded workrooms or squalid homes.

Lady Perrott was the eldest daughter of the late Captain Marcus Hare, KN., the gallant Commander of .EIJ)([S Eur vdice , which founced With all.hands the Isle of Wight some years ago. She was marned to SIr Herbert Perrott at St. Peter's Church, Eaton-square, on December loth 1'90 and since that time she has taken a ke.en an.d " . t stl'n both the educational and the philanthropiC active In ere I aims of the Order and its departments. n con, 'th the I tter it will doubtless be remembered nectlOn WI a that in 19 0 4 an entertainment consisting of a '!ery successful series of tableaux, iIIustative of 111, the early h : f the Order was held at HIS Majesty s Theatre. lstory 0 , d f th e Ladv Perrott upon this ,acte as ,une 0 , Secretaries to the O':gamsmg a POSItion which was certainly no. It IS recalled that the work in connection wI.th Its th October of the pre ce dmg year, dUring which penod Perrott was practically working single handed her

The work of the Brigade has her warm sympathy, and she has attended in furtherance of the movement in Lancashire, Newton Abbot, A,bbotskerwell-the latter place being part of her mother s of Court Grange. Here from time to time first ald classes are held, the whole of the expenses being generously by Mrs. Marcus Hare, who takes the warmest Interest 111 all that appertains to the welfare of those her Reference has been made to Lady ,Perrott s mterest m the welfare of the poor, and as show1l1g how great interest is, and how much of her time is. devoted to sphere of charitable work, we may mentIOn" that she IS Honorary Secretary of the Club. for factory girls in Ber;oondsey, the ?emg Princess Marie Louise of Schleswlg-Holste1l1. IS President of the Bermondsey Blanch .of the Chlldrens Happy Evenings Association"; an actlv.e member of the " Time and Talents " factory girls' club 111 of which Princess Victoria of Schleswig-Holstem IS PreSident ; a member of the Council of the Church, A,rm y of F · d f the Poor' memb=r of the Ladles Committee of nen so, . ' h kes a the Royal Free Hospital, in which e a great interest, and is also a Lady Vice-President of the League of Mercy. b h

This list could be largely a dd ed to, u,t ,ave enumerated sufficient to show that Lady Perrott s )Ife IS by no means one continual round of pleasurc-, It be t?:t , 'the course of her self-Imposed dutle.:., she expenences 111 • ., bl b that great and lasting pleasure IS Il1varH1. y 1..0 Y those who endeavour , to make thiS old worl? of a little brighter for others by their self-sacrifice and kindlY actions. k d h Lady Perrott is a and effective spea er, an as

-FtRST

often been asked to address meetings at .Hous.e, Lowther Lodge, etc., in aid of the many InstitutIOn.s In which she takes an interest. Her appeals are at. all t.Imes convincing, she speaks from her heart, and .mvanab.ly succeeds in persuading her hearers to take an Interest In the cause for which she pleads.

In concluding this brief biography-all too as it is-we desire to express to Lady Perrott our SIncere hope, that, for many years yet she may health and strength-the inclination, we are sure, she w:ll never to carry out those womanly kindnesses, which h.ave or her, the affectionate regard of many of the tOIlers m our great city.

Coming Events.

Partimlars OJ jorthcoming events will be ime1'ted in tltis colulIlll !1 'ee 0/ cltarge, if received not later than tlte I4th of each mOllth

Cleckheaton.-The third annual ambulancE: compet.ition the "Cleckheaton" Challenge Shield and valuable will be held on July 3Ist,open all ambulance teams. Particulars from Mr. A. Dickinson, Whltechapel-road, Cleckheaton.

Hackney.- The annual inspection and display of the "Clarnlco" Fire Brigade and Ambulance Corps will be at Messrs. Clarke, Nicholls & Coomb's 'Works, Hackney WIck, ., on June 19th.

Hemswortlz.- The ambulance competition organised by the Hospital Committee will be heJd on June 19th. For entry forms and particulars apply the secretary, Mr. J. D. Jefferson, 11, Centre-street, Hemsworth, near Wakefield.

Kezglzley.-Ambulapce competition in connection with the Keighley Friendly Society, on Saturday, June 19th, entrance fee, 35.; particulars from Mr. A Redman, 40? Exley Head, Keighley. A Nursmg will also place on the same day entr:mce fee 9d , particulars whlch can be had from Mr. J. Stoddart, 13, Raven-street, Kelghley.

Jl:{alto1Z.-Ambulance competition in connection with the Malton Norton and District Temperance Gala, on Thursday, July commencing at ? p.m. Entrance fee, 2S. 6d ; entries close July 12th. Partlculars from :M r. J. J. Temple, 36, Commercial-street, orton, Malton.

JVelson. - The Annual Competition for the "Wilkinson Memorial" Challenge Shield (confined to NO .4 District ) will be held on May 22nd. Particulars can be had from Supt. H. Bannister, 31, Derby-street, 1 elson.

Ravemth01pe Divz·sz'oJZ.-- The Annual Competition for the Silver Challenge Cup and other valuahle prizes will be held on September Ith. Competition forms will be issued shortly Further particulars may be obtained from the Secretary, Mr. W. Ledgard, Alma House, Ravensthorpe-road, Thornhill.

SklptolZ.-Ambulance competition in connection with the Skipton and District Hospital Gala will be held on Saturday, July 17th. A nursi!lg competition will take place on the same day. Further partlculars from Mr. T. Hudson, 48, Russellstreet, Skipton.

TOlZbrid.Re -The camp and competition of the National Fire Brigades Union will be held from July 3rd to roth.

Those of our readers who were present at the Royal Agricultural Hall on the occasions of the Fire Brigades' Tournaments in 1893-6, will remember the very fine display which was given by the teams from the Metropolitan Fire Brigade. The officer in charge was Supt. Tom Smith, who retired from the service owing to ill-health a few years since. It is with regret that we have learned of his death which occurred at Whitstable a few weeks back.

At D." Prana " 5parklet Fire Extinguishers.

OUR readers will remember that we have on more than one occasion referred in terms to the specialities issued by Aerators, Ltd., "Prana" Sparklet Works, Upper Edmonton, London. Their Spark lets have earned for them the gratitude of many a traveller, for by their aid it has been possible to secure a refreshing effervescing drink in even the most inaccessible places. With the advent of the Sparklet syphon and th e Sparklogene the fame of Aerators, Ltd., became world wide. A fresh departure has now been made by this enterprising firm by the adoption of their patent for the purpose s of fire extinction. The "Prana" Sparklet Fi re Extinguisher is now an accomplished fact, and we believe that the Company has placed upon the market a thoroughly reliable and up-to-date machine, a fact which is admitted by leading fire experts, Insurance Companies and the public authorities, including Scotland Yard; this latter fact is of great significence as it is only a few days since that the Home Office called attention to the fact that many of the so-called fire extinguishers were a positive source of danger rather than a protection against fire. The following special advantages are claimed for the "Prana." The instantaneous generation of liquid carbonic acid gas, which being contained in a capsule, hermetically sealed, is guaranteed to be found in good order at any time. The chemical extinguishing fluid wi th which it is charged is absolutely harmless, and will not damage the most delicate fabrics.

Many of the other makes of extinguishers depend upon some corrosive acid for the generation of pressure. Such an extinguisher it will at once be seen, may often do as much, if not more harm, both to materia.ls and individuals as to the fire itself, leaving out of the question the tendency which it has to evaporate if left unused for any length of time, thus rendering its value as an extinguisher absolutely nil.

The" Prana " Sparklet Fire Extinguisher is so c1leap that it should find a resting place in every dwelling house; not only is it cheap, however, it is reliable, and it is made in England by English workmen.

The officers and men of the Newport Corps (No.7 District) were entertained by Dr. Hamilton (Chief Surgeon and Superintendent) and Mrs. Hamilton at the Cafe on the loth ult. This corps, which is now in a flourishing condition, numbers over 120 men. A successful nursing class was conducted during the winter by Dr. Hamilton, and 17 members obtained nursing certificates. Allusion was made by the speakers to a recent church parade, at which there was a full muster of all the men and only one officer absent. The medallions, labels, service badges and certificates were distributed by Mrs. Hamilton. After refreshments an excellent programme of music was contributed by the following: Messrs. Lewis, Hughes, Lodge, Hill, Horton, Driscoll, Evans and Flint. Messrs. Osborne and Hill spoke on ambulance work, and it was announced that the Newport Corps, which has always represented NO.7 District in the "Dewar" Shield competition and has twice won the "Dewar" Shield, would not compete this year in order to give the" young blood" of the district a chance. During the evening Corporal Rowlands, on behalf of the nursing class, made a presentation to Dr. Hamilton.

-FIRST AID.C(

SOUTH-EASTERN & CHATHAM. - Most of the Class examinations on this railway have now been concluded, and we are gratified to learn that the figure show an app:eciable increase over pn;vious years results. No opportumty of <riving support to the movement appears to be lost by thebofficers and directors of the Company, and the :eports of meetings throughout the system which, from t.o ch us show that the social side of the bUSIness IS tlme rea 'bl C the a reciated at its full worth, by those responsl e. lor and conduct of the various classes. :Vlthout a d bt gatherings of this kind have a far-reachmg effecd the olicy of bringing the ?f the staff an their together, as much as pOSSIble, IS one worthy of every encouragement. . f 'fi Meetin s of this kind, for the presentatIOn 0 certl & been held recently at Faversham-the cates, r Faversham presiding; at. and. at m where the members of the Vlctona Class .carned successful soiree. At each of these excellent musical programme has been. car:le ou .y '11' f' ds and in the case of the Vlctona Class, thiS WI mg nen , hI . d and was followed by a dance which was y enJoye b d kept up until a late hour to the strams of an an Presentations were made to pr. Car.vel, or IS services to the Victoria Class, of a chma N utfield meeting the Class Secretary, r. h d Stationmaster at Nutfield, was presented With a an some clock and ornaments to match. I d h' h the

The useful and valuable know.e w IC b of the ambulance classes on thIS railway have acmem ers fi 'd again evidenced on 11:ay quired in rendenng rst al ,was .' t d the first h h ei ht teams of NO.5 Dlstnct en ere lIt , W en g.. f the challenge shield presented by annual competitIOn or ., fi d t the Lord Brassey. The whIch IS . h NoS DIstnct took place at t n , the' fixture wa's favoured with .lovely and arrangements were admirabl y s ca)rnedd to Messrs. E. A. Richards (Centre ec. an were Dr. Southey Dr; OJ g (London) and the tests set WIth Judges Lanyon wen. ' synopsis for markmg as follows.-

STRETCHER \VORK.

d " er has severely sC8.lded his right He An engme I1V b d sends hiS mate knows that you am buJanCe1me:! a to get off for you; As ap,Proac stumbles and falls to the ground, his engme, and m dOI?g SO) pIe fracture of the right femur d a result sustal11S a slm 1 I an as ( . ., 1 d Treat and remove to s 1e ter. also. It lS ral11lTIg nr < General.. 1 I_ ng fron severe s 10C PatIent lS SLl ,ell ell and send for medical assistance. At once cover lip w ) Loosen all tight clothing (c he s t and abdomen. Head low. Use encouraging words. }< circulation of all'. I x heart's action, sal volatile, smellll1g sa ts, (C C

added. Treat burn first. Instruct bystanders to prepare dressmgs. Steady and support limb (above ankle ) Burn.

Remnve boot by cutting up back seam. Remove stock. d If any portion stuck to skin cut round adherent part an soak wi th oil. .' ld Dressings soaked wi th oil, lanolme, co cream. Boracic acid powder added If pOSSible. Raw potato.

Cotton wool.

Bandage. d Remove boot of left foot to prevent further anage to right Fracture.

Extension.

Splints.

Bandages.

Knots and neatness.

Hot bottles properly. te s ted: Boots to be taken wlth patient. Preparing and bring:ing up stretcher. Testing stretcher, slmgs and traverse bars. Loadin g stretcher.

Liftin g stretcher. Adjusting slings.

Marching.

Lowering. Stretcher not to be unloaded. General smartness, &c.

QUESTION S

r.-(a ) Causes, symptoms and treatment of hyster ia Causes.

Mental excitement.

SiE;lZs.

Age of person.

Grinding of teeth; fists

Crying, kicking, laughIng.

Eyeballs turn.ed upwards. '. f h Eyelids openmg and shuttmg qUickly, perhaps rot at mouth. . 'b l Patient not completely msenSI e.

Treatment. d h Speak firmly, threaten cold water ouc e. Sprinkle cold water. leaf at back of neck.

Medical treatment. at which I.-(b) Name the different pressure pomts h orrha cre may be controlled. ) zem artery (above and below If necessary. Facial.

Temporal.

Occipital.

Subclavian.

Axillary. ., b fl Brachial; also at elbow JOint y eX lon. Radial.

digital at gr oin, subsequent tourniquet. Popliteal.

Posterior tlblal.

Anterior tibial. b

2.-(a) Give the symptoms and treatment of pOlsolllng y decomposed meat.

Symptol/ls.

Vomiting and purgmg. Colic IIeadache.

Great weakness.

Raised temperature. Quick pulse. t Similar symptoms in others \\'ho ate same mea.

Treatment.

Send for doctor at once.

!7Z

Emetic.

Castor oil when emetic acts.

Treat collapse.

Preserve vomit.

Extra marks.

-FIRST

AID. - May, I9 0 9.

Liver (upper part of abdomen )

Spleen (beneath ribs, upper part left side abdomen )

Intestines (cavity of abdomen )

Kidneys (back region of loin )

Bladder (in pelvis )

May, 1909· -FIRST

without making sure what it was they were required to do. In the case of practical work, every injury shoul? be looked upon as having actually occurred, and the patIent should be treated with quite as much care, and as much thought given to his comfort, as if the injury actually

2. -( b) You are called to a man who has sustained a compound fracture of the right tibia and fibula wi th hccmorrhage and also a fracture of the left humerus, two inches above elbow joint. Say what first aid treatment you would adopt and the order in which you would carry this out ?

Arrest hce morrhage first by immediate digital. Pressure.

Tourniquet.

Expose wound.

Antiseptic pad and dressings.

Extension of leg; tyll1g feet together.

Apply splint to leg.

Large arm sling.

Treat shock.

3 - (a ) Give the causes , si g ns and treatment of fracture of base of the skull.

Ca u ses

Fall on head.

Fall on feet.

Blow on lower jaw.

Sig ns.

I nsensibili ty.

Fluid and blood from ear

Blood may be vomited,

Blood from the nose and mouth.

Eye bloodshot.

Trea tm ent.

Lay patient in easy position.

Head turned slightly

Do not plug ear.

3·-(b ) Mention the poisons which burn or stain the mOLlth.

Nitri c Acid.

Sulphuric a cid.

Hydrochloric a ci d.

Carbolic acid.

Oxalic acid

Oxalate potash.

Salts of sorrel.

Salts of lemon.

Polishing paste.

Caustic potash.

Caustic soda.

Ammonia.

4.- (a ) Mention the causes of asphyxia.

Ob str uction o[ A ir P assages

Drowning

Pressure.

Foreign body in throat.

Inhaling P ois on ous Gases

Coal gas.

Sewer gas.

Lime kiln gas.

Carbonic acid ga s

Smoke.

Fumes from charcoal or coke

Pressure on chest.

lVervo us Affection s

Poisons

Collapse.

Electric shock

4·-(b ) Give the treatment for a wasp sting.

Extract the string if still left in.

Mop with dilute ammonia of s pirits.

Paste .blcarbonate of soda and sal volatile.

Washmg soda or potash.

Blue bag.

Treat collapse if necessary.

.? -( "!- ) Name the organs of the abdomen and give their posItIons 111 same.

Stomach (immediately below "pit of stomach " just below breastbone

Extra marks

5· -( b ) Mention the names of the branches of the external carotid artery.

Lingual.

Facial.

Occipital.

Temporal (continuation of artery).

Extra marks.

The maximum number of marks obtainable was 300 and the following was the result :-

1. Crowhurst 212 §

2. Tunbridge Wells 207

3· Hastings

4· Bexhill 182

5· St. Leonards IS8 t

6. Ore 151

7· Battle I4S t

8. Rye 119

After the competition an excellent tea was served to the members of the competing teams and their friends numbering 120 persons, in the Victoria Hall. '

At the meeting which followed, the Deputy Mayor of Bexhill (Ald. J. Paton) occupied the chair, and was supported by the Supt. of the Line (W. Thomson, Esq., M.V.O.), the Manager (F. H. Dent, Esq.), E. C. Cox, Esq. (Chamnan of Ambulance Centre), E. Weldon, Esq. (Tunbridge Wells), and various medical gentlemen connected with the classes and other officials.

Regret was expressed that Lord Brassey, who had so generously presented the shield for competition among the railwaymen in No. 5 district was prevented from attending and personally handing it to the winners. A telegram was read from his Lordship saying how sorry he was that he had been detained at an important meeting.

Mr. W. Thomson urged the importance of a knowledge of first aid by all railwaymen, and made known to those present how much the directors and officers of the Company appreciated what the ambulance men were doing throughout the length and breadth of the line. He said t.hey would always find support in all good work of thIS kmd, and urged those who were not prize-winners this to work h.ard and endeavour to attain a position hIgher up the lIst next year. They must not be discouraged, as there was no reason why, if they applied themselves to the matter, they should not become equally as proficient as the winning teams that day.

Alderman Paton expressed his pleasure at being asked, m the absence of Lord Brassey, to present the Shield to the winn.ers. This first aid work was, he said, a grand work, and It was very comforting to that should occasion unfortunately arise, there were so many excellent fellows to assist in alleviating suffering, thoroughly m a knowledge of what to do, and what was equally Important, what not to do. In handing the shield the .Crowhurst team, he trusted that it would prove an IncentIve to each member of the team to continue with the good work and, if {Jossible, increase their efficiency.

Mr. F. H. Dent, Goods Manager, expressed the thanks ?f the competing teams, to the judges, and to the medical Instructors in the district. Dr. Lanyon Owen replied, and urge? upon.the members of the teams the necessity for readll1g theIr properly before proceeding with the treatment requIred. Many teams hurriedly read the label and proceeded to give the treatment for the various injuries,

The various certificates, vouchers, medallIons and labels gained by the members of the classes in the District were distributed, and a very successful event was brought to a close by the presentation to Dr. Duckworth Barker, the lecturer to the Crowhurst Class, by the members of his class of a handsome silver cigarette case.

The' whole of the arrangements for the competition were carried out by Mr. G. Manser, the Committeeman for the District, by whose efforts subscriptions to the of £20 had been received, towards the funds 10r proVIdIng the medals to the members of first, second and third teams, and an excellent meat tea to all those present.

MlDLAND.-The first dinner in connection with the Midland Railway class at Carlisle took place on March Z 3rd, at the Silver Grill, the chair being occupied by Mr. R. A. Allison (Director).

After the loyal toast had been sUbm.itted and. duly honoured, Dr. Adams proposed "The MIdland Railway Am bulance Class." In the course of his remarks, the speaker referred to the success which had attended this year's :,c1ass. He also referred to. the fact that the Directors had recognised the valuable services rendered by some of the men. Messrs. G. Watson and Mr. D. Patrickson had been awarded gold medals, and Messrs. A. R. Banks and W. Allen SIlver medals for acts of bravery; whIlst Mr. O. Burton had received a certificate of commendation. He expressed the best wishes for the continued success of the class. Mr. Burton, the class secretary responder!.

On behalf of the class, the Chairman presented Dr. Adams with a silver-plated table lamp, expressing the hope that he might long live to enjoy its light. Dr. Adams having returned thanks, Chair:n.an the with a case of cutlery 111 recogmtlOn of hiS valuable serVIces, Mr Burton returned thanks in a brief speech.

The Chairman next presented certificates, medallions and labels to the members of the class, after which Mr. Jones proposed the toast of the "Chairman and the Visitors."

In responding, Mr. Allison said alt.hough had r: o desire to deter railway servants from takIng an mterest In football, seeing how much football did for the railway companies, in transferring its supporters. fr.om to another still he considered that 111 saCrIfiCIng theIr time and other pleasures, in order to study ambulance railwaymen were carrying out a great. useful service. Mr. Thistlewaite responded for the VISltO:S.

During the evening several musIcal items were contributed by mem bers of the company.

CAMBRIAN.- The annual competItIOn for the Challenge Shield, presented in 1895 by Mrs. Den?is and Mrs. Parry-Jones, was held this year on the recreat:on ground at Llandinam, on the invitation of the new ChaIrman of the Company, Mr. David Davies, M.P. A large and appreciative audience, largely composed of ?1embers of the ambulance classes, their wives and lady fnends, assembled, and were interested spectators of the contest.

The fixture was favoured with lovely weather, and the whole of the arrangements were admirably planned and reflected the greatest credit upon the centre secretary, Mr. J. D. Andrews. Commencing at 10.3 0 a.m., the com-

AI D.- 173

petition lasted until 3 p.m., with a brief interval at noon for luncheon. The five competing teams wer e Oswestry Traffic, O s westry Works, Welsh pool, Llanidloes, ann Portmadoc. The Judge was Col. Cureton, Deputy C0mmissioner for the Wt'lsh District, S.lA. B.

At the conclusion of th e competition, tea was served, after which Col. Cureton said it had given him the greatest pleasure to be with them that day, and meet old faces and renew old acquaintances ; he then announced the result of the competition as follows :- Welshpool, Portmadoc, Llanidloes, 13S! ; Oswestry Traffic, and Oswestry Works, WeJshpool had therefore won the shield.

Mr. C. S. Dennis, general manager, in the course of an interestmg speech, referred to the growth of ambulance work among the Cambrian men, and expressed the desire that it would continue to progress, and that more men would qualify, and that those who had already done so would devote more time to practice. They m e t that day as the guests of their new Chairman, and he took that opportunity of stating that, when the announcement was made that he had accepted the position, it with the greatest enthusiasm by all connected WIth raIlway. hoped the meeting that day, under such delIghtful condltlOn.s, was an augury of the success which would attend the chamnanship of their hospitable host,. and. he cong.ratulated the Cambrian Railway upon secunng hIm as chaIrman. They appreciated very much the kindly welcome and generous which he had extended to them that day, and they would go an? with the desire to do theIr best 10 their respectIve pOSitIOns to assist him in the difficult task he had undertaken, whereby they hoped a brighter future would dawn for brian. He congratulated the Welsh pool team on then vlcto!'y. Mrs. Davies then presented the Challen ge ShIeld t o the Welsh pool team. . .

On the motion of Mr. WIllIamson, secretary to th e Company, seconded by Mr. H. Jones, superintendent, Mrs. Davies was thanked for. pr esentIng th e shield to the winning team, and Mr. DaVies was thanked for his hospitality.

In returning thanks on behalf of hIS mother and hImself Mr. Davies said it had been a great pleasure to them to that excellent competition. He c?ngratulated th e winning team, and trusted be eq ually successful in the larger competitIon 10 which they would take part at the end of the month. Ambulance work was one of the finest things that a man could take up to be able to render aid to their fellows in time of need would amply compensate them for the time and labour expended in acquiring the knowledge. H.e.was sorry that more teams did not take part in the competItIOn, but trusted that others might be induced to forward take up the work Referring to his app010tment as ChaIrman of the Company, Mr. Davies said it was .with great reluctance tha t .he accepted the position, knOWIng how arduous the duties were. They had duties to perform the shareholders, to their employ e s and to publIc, and between the three they had sometimes .a dIfficult task to perform.

However, they tried to do theIr duty by all three. In cor:clusion he proposed a vote of thanks to Col. Cureton for hIS that day, and expressed his t? those medical men who assisted them by lectunng to. theIr staff. Col. Cureton returned thanks and the proceedmgs closed with hearty cheers for the host and hostess.

WHEN OORRERPONDING WITH ADVERTISERS PLEASE MENTION "FIRST AID."

May I9 0 9·

A New Departure in Ambulance Construction.

PERHAPS in no section of manufacturing industry h'3.s greater progress been made in recent years than in ambulance construction. Nor is this surprising; the occasion for wonder being that for so many years so little attention was given to the comfort of the injured.

We recently had an opportunity of examining a new form of patent ambulance, built by Messrs. J. & A. Carter, of 2, 4 and 6, New Cavendish-street, W., to the order of the Urban Council, the interior and general appomtments of whIch contain some new features in ambulance construction. The inside of this ambulance is metal-lined and finished with a special impervious enamel while perfect ventilation is secured first by means of windo.ws which to an angle of 45 degs., and secondly by a lme of ventIlating hoppers which run along the sides

serious one, frequently compelling the attendant at the foot end of the stretcher to climb up into the car, while the at the olher end has had to bear the whole and lift. the in a most awkward position, and at an ll1convement heIght before the object aimed at has been achieved. Attention should also be drawn to the slretcher itself, which is likewise of white enamelled metal and the bed or mattress on which the patient is carried covered with a white waterproof cover.

internal fittings of the car are, we believe, unique, speCial revolving seat is fixed for the attendant, and this IS capable of being placed at either end of the car so that the nurse can sit at the head or the foot of patient. A complete electric light installation is fitted with Osram lamps for the i.nterior, and also for the front and rear lights. An extra IS also. fitted an examination lamp, and a metal speakIng tube IS prOVIded for the convenience of the nurse in communicating with the driver.

We are most interested in this ambulance, and there IS no doubt that the efforts of. the makers in producing may be as an entIrely new form of interior wIll be by all wh? are interested in the subject, and also by offiCials of HospItals and Institutions generally throughout the country. It should be mentioned that the car, which is here illustrated, is about 4 cwt. lighter than the usual type of vehicle.

The Draeger Rescue Apparatus.

DURING last year a .M!ners' Rescue Station, as suggested by the Royal on Safety in Mines, was founded at 'yath-on-Dearn.e, ?ear Roth:rham, by six colliery companl.es located wlthm that neIghbourhood. The Rescue StatIon was completed in October last and on the openin g all the existing types of rescue 'apparatus were submItt.ed to competitive tests in order to demonstrate the merIts of each type.

As:a result of this competition, the tests of which were of a very severe character, the trustees of the '\Vath Rescue Station have decided to equip their station with the Draeger Life ?aving Apparatus and Smoke Helmet, which our readers remember used so successfully at the PIt fire, and prevIously at Courrieres and other mmIng dIsasters. Twenty sets of the apparatus have been ordered for the Wath Rescue Station from Richard Jacobson, 70, E.c., and a number of men from each of the wIll shortly be trained in the use of the apparatus, In order that an em.ergency arise they may be fully conversant WIth ItS workIng and in irs use underground.

of the car near to the roof. It is especially ,10ticeable too that .all the windows and ventilators when closed are air-tight, facilitating easy disinfection and stenhsatIOn.

The greatest centres round the stretcher

The platform carries the stretcher is of galvam.sed metal, fitte.d WIth an oxygen cylinder' u on this or platform IS fitted "Carter's" patent )t f h tensIon gear which is fixed automatically and s ch er. exthe st t h ,w IC gIves re c. er a prOjectIOn of 27 in. from the back of the car,. the to place the loaded stretcher in o.r remove It from the ambulance without the s Ig t.est dIfficulty. This is, of course, a great feature as of carrying a heavy person on a stretcher p aCIng It In the ambulance has previously been a very

In Canada the Draeger Rescue Apparatus has met WIth success. Only just recently it was used by the DOmInIOn. Coal Company's Rescue Brigade, Glace Bay, N o.va ScotIa, when they were called upon to extinguish a senoys underground fire at one of the pits of the Nova Steel and Coal Company, North Sydney, Nova ScotIa. The fire was successfully extinguished after nine hours' work, there?y saving a large amount of property and human lIves. As a result of this fire the Steel and Coal Company has now decided to I11stO'I theIr own rescue station, and have purchased ten complete sets of the Draeger apparatus, including smoke hel.mets and all the necessary requisites, such as oxygen cylInders, 600 re.fills, hand safety-lamps, &c.

Messrs. MeIster LUCIUS & Brunning Ltd. who have recently erected large aniline works at P;rt as a

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result of the new Patent Laws, have, in compliance with the instruction of H. M.'s Factory Inspector, equipped their works with the Draeger Smoke Helmet for the protection of their workmen againsl poisonous fumes.

stretcher Pitted with Oxygen Breath= ing Apparatus.

IN discussing the V3.lue of rescue apparatus for saving lives in mines, mining experts have frequently asked the following question :-

" But how is it possible to get men out be found alive in pockets of fresh air If the air through which they have to be carned IS so pOIsonous as to render the use of breathing apparatus necessary by the rescue party?"

This question has now been solved by the werk, Lubeck, and through their English representatIve, Mr. Richard Jacobson, of 70, c., are now placing an appliance on the market whIch wlll allow

We are in no way responsible jor the opinions expressed, or (h e statements made, by Correspondent s.-EDITORS.

THE S.J.A.B. A D THE TERRITORIAL FORCES.

DEAR SIR -"All ' s well that ends well. " Thanks to your earnest advoc;cy and our agitation the iniquitious Brigade Order which prohibited members of the St. John Ambulance Brigade from joining the, Territoral Forces has been I rejoice to think that thiS has come to pass, but what a pity It is that the authorities at St. John s Gate should have

of miners being brought to the bank through noxious atmosphere without harm occurring to them.

In the adjoining illustration the applIance IS shown, consisting of a solid but light steel stre.tcher, fitted at head end with a small oxygen breathmg apparalus, WIth oxygen cylinder and potash purifier, similar to. that of th.e " Draeger" rescue apparatus, but very much lIghter. apparatus is co!;nected by means of tubes to a hood can be tied round the neck of the sufferer, thus provldmg him with fresh air. The stretcher is so arranged as to allow the sufferer to be firmly strapped upon it, and to place him, if necessity arises, in an upright .position in the cage. This apparatus on the stretcher, WIth the hood can he easily taken off and may be used underground.

In cases where a large number of men are entombed, additional apparatus can be taken down. put on t he men as they are located, in this way provldmg the,m WIth fresh air, so that the surrounding poisonous gas wIll have no effect upon them. For the space of one hour the sufferers are supplied with fresh air, and the party can make arrangements to convey the men mto safety, even should there be only one of these stretchers available.

maintained this high-handed a c tion so long. I must, ha\'e done incalcuable mis chief to the best inte,rests of .the Bn g ade, as it has not only stopped re c ruiting, but It oJ the best of the rank and file out of an orgamzat lOn w IC la S0 little consideration for those who had served It so wep.

To ou Sir our best thanks are due, for It was m your column/ were permitted to pl a ce our case bef,?re the b h d the Brigade authontles, and whom It was powers e m im ossible for us to reach in any other war· " , p 'Wishing FIRST AID the to which It IS so Justly ntitled -I am Dear Sir, Yours faithfully. e '''A TERRIER " AND S.J.A B. ME:-.IDER.

ESSAY COMPETITION.

DEAR SIR,-I cannot express great when I 'd most flatterin g and pleasmg received yesterrea ydouI that I had won First Prize m the last Essay day a vIsing me "F A'd" C se later , " d l1en I received the Irst I a CompetitIon an w l d f . e da I 'was delighted with It, and am a very prou 0 th , Yh I tter and o- enerous increase m the value of the It for Wit yOUl e b "d " tt tonI), " I th ract that this was my secon a emp , Pri ZE. anc e 1, I h' k I h e d' "cond " win in yOllr competltlOn5, t m av an my se d of it The officers and men of both reason to, be a are extremely pleased and of whllch,. l'ttle "poppylancl" town has twice been gratified that t lell I

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q6

successful, and I. hope this will increase their interest in your Journal, and stImulate some of them to " g o and do likewise ." " " vVishing you every succes wIth our monthly, I must close thankin g y ou Sir, and, you, Dr. Bateson setting the tests for c ompetItIon and for the pri zes, especially for awarding" first " to-Yours faIthfuIly, C. ROPER, G.E.R. Cromer Division and Cromer Town Division, S.J.A.B. Cromer, April 21st, T909·

D EAR SIR, - I beg to 'you for the Prize award.ed me in your recent Essay and for appreCIative remarks about the quahty of the efforts submItted .. The "First Aid " Case came safely to hand. yesterday, and 1\ wIll doubtless prove very useful to me Jl1 emergency.- '\ ours truly, S. V. HEAP. Earby, April 22nd, 1909·

FIRST AID AND POLICE.

DEAR SIR,-I was much interested in the account which appeared in the April number of AID anent. the repon of the Committee appointed to enqUIre mto the effiCIency of our London Ambulance Service.

May I crave your pe.rmission to lay before yom readers my poor views on the subJect?

I t seems to me, sir, that the" boy m blue " IS always considered to be just the proper persofo1 to do anythmg that may crop up in the nature of pubhc serVICe. I wonder w.hy some economical person does not suggest that the PolIce should take over the Fire Brigade duties. It is given as a reason for their taking on the ambulance service that they are invaiably the first to arrive on the scene of an accident. WeIl, the same argument would apply with equal force to a outbreak of fire.

Now I have been repeatedly told by members of the force, that the majority of constables attending the classes on first aid, pass the eX3:mination, obtain their certificate and promptly forget all about It.

I myself cOllsider that to be effiCIent m the subject, one must be constantly looking it up or many valuable points pass into obscurity. It has to be studied systematically. Are we to call upon the police to do this ? I am not myself a member of the force but I come mto contact with the members a great deal and m'y opinion is that they have quite enough to do as it is if'their duties are to be carried out properly.

Kow sir, why not organise an ambulance service on the same lin; as the fire brigade? Small stations, sufficient to ac commodate a motor ambulance and one or two men, could be erected in certain localities and fitted up with" calls."

Should an accident occur, the nearest alarm would be rung, and the a mbulance :",ith at least one traine.d man in attendance would be there In a very short space of tIme.

I t must also be borne in mind that the average policeman does not walk his beat with splints, broom handles, or wine bottle envelopes in his trousers pockets, nor do the articles lie scattered about the public streets as one might be led to suppose from the ambulance text books; in .emergency material for splInts and bandages have to be obtamed somehow. Now, with a proper amhulance servi ce, except in one or two cases, such as severe bleeding, immediate treatment would be of no great importance, as the ambulance would not be long before it arrived UPOIl the scene.

do not wish it to be inferred that I am posted up in all part culars relating to the subject, but as I previously stated, I am constantl y "rubbing shoulders " with the police, have attended their first aid lectures and examinations, have assisted them on more than one occasion in their complicated duties, and being also a member of the Brigade can see a little of both sides of the edge.-Yours truly, T. H. A.

[While thanking our correspondent for his kindly criticism, we think he has somewhat unjustly censured us for our views on this subject. We are quite ready to admit that the police

AI D.- May, I909 have already a large amount of duty to do, but we venture to assert that it is not an impossible feat to increase the strength of the force by the addition of a number of ambulance constables. I twas tbe control that we referred to when we suggested that ScotlandYard was preferable to Sl?ring G.arc1ens ?r the M A. B. We think our correspondent wIll admIt that 1\1 the City the service has worked all right under police control, and so it does in Liverpool, in Manchester, and many other towns that we could mention. The average constable may be as lacking in interest in first aid as T.H.A. suggests, but we know many members of the force who take a very great interest in ambulance duties, and often regret that they have not more instruction in the subject. These men would willingly join a police ambulance section.-ED. " F.A."J

DEAR SIR,-Will you grant me space in your Journal to ask your advanced first aid. they propose to deal with crushed foot? The IllustratIOn, 111 the new St. J olm's book leaves one-half of the injury exposed. Also, how would they 'treat a fractured spine? To keep passing bandages under the back, seems to me, to be a very painful operation, and the lifting seems worse. I t was painful enoug h to me to be lifted on sheet or rug, but I think I should prefer tbat method than the bandages if I had to choose again as I did in 1897. Thanking you.-Yours.

J. J. A.

A USTRALIAN FIREl\IEN.-By the mail which arrived on the !Jth ult., we have full reports of the great annual gathering of the Victorian Fire Brigades for the week of annual competitions. The gathering this year was held in Geelong, March 9th to 12th, and proved a great success, 1,500 officers and men 90 accor;npanied by 20 bands of music took part amId the plaudIts of thousands of spectators. The torchlight procession was most effective, and the evening concerts, held in Johnstom Park, attracted crowds, and by their success also contributed greatly to the fund raised locally and which covered the whole cost of the weeks proceedings-a special feature being the opening of the new Geelong Fire Station. The many events were as usual keenly contested. The EaglEhawk Brigade (Bendigo) were again proclaimed the champions, and as such hold for the fourth time-in five years-the beautiful silver shield generously given by many of the prominent citizens of London on the occasion of the Geelong Brigades Jubilee held 1904. The local press give much credit to Capt. W. H. Wilcox and all his colleagues in carrying through so efficiently the many details of the preparations and the daily programme.

Aids to Memory for "First Aid" Students.

By L. M, FRANK CHRISTIAN, M,B"

C,M., EDIN

H all Life 111el1l ber of, a nd E x am ill er for th e St jolm A III buiall ce A s s oc ia hll?l. Second Edition. Revised Throughout. Additional Photographs.

" This va lua b e littl e tr eati se has now been th or ou g hly e vi sed a nr! bro u g ht up to d a e "-F,:, -.rt A i d.

" T he improve m ent S \er

The Independent Journal for the Ambulance and Fire Services.

To

As it is the wish and desire of the Proprietors to make this Journal as instructive and entertaining as possible, correspondent s in all parts of the country are asked to give it all the help they can. Superintendents of Corps and Officers of Divisi ons of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, Officers of the Royal Army Medical Corps (Territorials), the Volunteer Ambulance School of Instruction and Chief Officers of Fire Brigades will, it is hoped, do their best to :nake it known amongst the members of their respective organisations, and will also send for publication their official news and notices. Suggestions are invited for Prize Competitions and other matters which will ad\'ance the inte\.est of the] ournal.

We particularly desire to ask our correspondents to be brief and to the point in any communications they may send us for publication.

Correspondents sending in photos are urgently requested to state on the back of the same the name of the individual or the Corps or Brigade and give also the name and address of the sender.

We beg to advise our readers that we do not pay for photographs or copy sent, unless previously agreed upon in writing.

" First Aid" is published on the 20th of the month.

EDITORIAL.

THE British Fire Prevention Committee

The which on May 24th and 25th celebrated British Fire the tenth aniversary of its Incorporation, Prevention has during that period quietly and Committee. unostentatiously, but none the less effectively, been carrying on a great and important work, and one that entitles it to the gratitude of not only those who are connected with the Fire Service, and who realise the value of the work in which the Committee is engaged, but the community at large owes it a debt of gratitude, for it is safe to say that every test undertaken under its auspices tends in some measure to minimise the risk of fire, either by proving the value of the material or article submitted as a fire resisting one, or the worthlessness of its claim to be regarded as such.

Founded on the occasion of the great Cripplegate Fire in I897, the Committee, under the able leadership of Mr. E. O. Sachs, to whom must be accorded much of the credit for the great success which has attended its efforts, started a crusade to see if it was not possible, by the adoption of preventive measures to reduce the risks of fire not only in the Metropolis but throughout the Empire. From the outset Mr. Sachs has had the loyal and wholehearted support of two men as keenly interested in the

subject as he himself is, and we are sure it will be generally conceded that no abler lieutenants could be found to assist in the carrying out of the plans of the Committee, than Mr. Ellis Marsland, its indefatigable Honorary Secretary, and Mr. Max Clarke one of the keenest workers on its executive. These two gentlemen have ably seconded the efforts of their Chairman, and the movement owes much to their skill and experience.

The work undertaken by the Committee at their Testing Station has undoubtedly led to a greater knowledge of the relative value of certain fire-resisting materials, such as reinforced concrete, fir e-resisting glazing and fire-resisting doors, and when it is mentioned that the investigation into the value of some of the objects submitted, requires as many as twenty or thirty testing operations, it will be realised that the article which comes up to the standard required by the Committee, possesses so to speak the" hall mark" of fire-resistance. As these tests are made under the personal supervision of members of the Committee it is an additional guarantee that they are absolutely above SusplclOn.

From the first the Committee has had the cordial support of many of the chief officers of the Government Technical Departments, and many of them eminent men in their professions, have on more than one public occasion spoken in terms of warm approval of the work of the organisation.

It is at times the custom of a certain class of critic to decry research work as carried out in this country, but it redounds to the credit of the British Fire Prevention Committee, that although their work and methods have been adopted by many other countries, and subsidised by Government funds, the results attained here as shown in the published Reports of the Committee have never been surpassed by any other country, and when it is borne in mind that the whole of the funds required for the establishment of the Committee's Testing Station and the carrying out of its work have been raised voluntarily, it will be realised how public spirited the Executive of the movement has been. Over £20,000 has been expended in the ten years since the Incorporation of the Committee, the whole of this large sum being expended in connection with its plant and operations. The services rendered by the Committee and

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i[s officers are entirely voluntary, in addition to which they are also called upon to bear their own out of pocket expenses.

It would be out of place to conclude this brief article upon the work of this valuable organisation without some reference to the fact that the International Fire Congress of 1903, held at Earls Court, London, was organised by and carried out under its auspices. On this occasion there were no less than 800 delegates present, of whom 200 were either Foreign or Colonial representatives. H.R.H. the late Duke of Cambridge who opened the Fire Exbibition, which was held at the same time, spoke in terms of warm commendation of the efforts which Mr. Sachs and his colleagues were making to minimise the risk of fire.

In conclusion, we can only wish the Committee a continued measure of success, may their efforts to reduce the risk of fire receive at the hands of their fellow citizens that cordial support and co-operation to which their work in the past so fully entitles them.

Insensibil ity.

By METACARPUS.

THERE are few more baffling cases which come within the of the first aider,. than those which are comprised under the above r.eadmg It IS not so many years ago, when it was an almost daily occurrence open one's morning newspaper and be confronted WIth the follewing distressing heading, to a police news paragraph"Drunk or Dying." Such a heading is but rarely now, and the St. Jobn Am bulance Association is entitled to the tbanks of the community-even if it had no other claim to gratitude-for having instructed the. of C:)Ur police force not to rashly jump to a conclUSIOn, which might tend to so sad a sequel indeed, it had doubtless earned the gratitude of many an unfortunate sufferer, who but for its beneficient work might have fallen a victim to official ignolance. Even now thele is at times a tendency, especially should tbe unfortunate sufferer's breath be tainted with the smell of alcohol, to assume that drink is the primary cause of the trouble, whereas a little further investiga.tion might have revealed Ule fact that the collapse occurred first, and the alcoholic features of tbe case are the after results of some well intentioned, but very often illadvised, individual having attempted to pour brandy, or other spirit, into the mouth of the unconscious sufferer, with the result that the greater portion of the spirit has been spilled over the clothing of the inanimate one.

There are sev e ral causes which may produce unconsciousness, such as apoplectic seizure, hysteria, sunstroke, concussion of the brain, temporary failure of the heart's action poisons which have an effect on tbe brain will also produce unconsciousness, as will also poisonous gases or fumes, such as sewer gas, coal gas, and the fumes from carbonic acid. Suffocation arising from a foreign body in the throat, strangulation from hanging or some constriction round the throat. A person may also be unconscious from

AI D.- June, 1909.

drowning, and in such cases if a Fatal issue is to be averted relief must be prompt and efficaclOus.

The first aider should always endeavour to glean some particulars as to the cause of the in order to guide him in his po not fall t.o that the C3.se may be one ll1 which the admlnlstenng of stimulants might be attended with serious results. Speedil y loosen all clothes or other rest:ictions round the throat and chest, this is very necessary In order that there may be no impediment to the free action. of breathing circulation. You should next examine your patIent thoroughly for any wounds or frac.tures, .and immediate and careful attention should be given If any are found. Failing to find any injuries to unconsciousness, if possible, have him ll1to an a?Jacent house and laid on a bed or sofa, wIth the head raised or lowered ","ccording to the nature of the illness from which you assume the is suffering, at o?ce summon medical assistance, in the meanwhlle seell1g that he is kept very quiet.

I shall now proceed to bnefly desCrIbe the several forms of inseusibility, giving some of the principal characteristics to each.

ApOPLEXY.

5.J'11zptoms - This usually occurs in elderly people. The patient is suddenly deprived of sense and motion, the face will be flushed, the breathing laboured or stertorous, that is it is accompanied by a kind of snoring noise, the cheeks being puffed out at each expiration, the pupils of the eyes will be fixed and unequal, the temperature is usually markedly high, there is or of one side of the body, the other side retaining ItS normal rigidity. It will be impossible to rouse the patient.

Treatmmt.-At once have the patient conveyed into a cool room where there is a free current of air, la.y him on the bed or the couch with the head slightly raised, and at once take steps to ensure prompt medical attendance. Pending the arrival of the doctor, loosen all clothing, especially about the neck, chest and abdomen. Apply icebags to the head, or, failing these, cloths wrung out in cold water; keep the feet and extremities warm by the application of hot-water bottles, too much care cannot exercised in applying these, they should be wrapped ll1 woollen cloth or flannel, and first tested by feeling them with the back of your hand before placing them against the flesh of your patient or you may seriously burn the skin. As a last and special injunction, see that no attempt IS made to give the patient anything by the mouth SHOCK OR COLLAPSE.

Symptoms.- Those readers who were competitors in the early days of ambulance competitions, will, no doubt, remember how this question used to puzzle some of tbose competing. They could never apparently realise that a patient might suffer from shock or be collapsed, without having sustained some serious injury. Of course, after any accident, attended by more or less serious consequences, the patient naturally suffers from shock: but it is quite possible for your patient to be in a collapsed condition without having sustained any injury at al l. The face is pale, and the patient may complain of feeling cold, and in support of this may shiver. He will be in a cold and clammy state of perspiration, the pulse weak, tbe breathing shallow and the temperature will be found to be below the normal-98'4. The latter symptom will be very marked should your patient be suffering from any serious injury such as extensive scalds

June, 19 0 9. -FIRST

or burns, severe wounds, fractures injuries resulting from a crush or serious fall a heIght. .In some cases the patient may be partly conSCIOUS, appearIng to be only dazed, it} other cases he may be thoroughly collapse? and unconscious owing to loss of blood or from the seventy of tbe shock be has sustained.

Treatmmt.- Immediatly take steps to keep your patient warm by covering h.im up with blankets,. rugs, coats or anything else that IS at hand spee.ddy as possib le convey him into a warm room, and, If pOSSible bim to bed between hot blankets, with hot bottle.s to hiS feet and a flannel wrung out in hot water O? the As as the patient is sufficiently consclOUS give warm drinks, hot milk, tea or a little spirit.

Al D.-

advisable to insert a gag between tbe teeth to prevent the tongue being bitten. Tbis is .easily ma?e :vvith a piece of wood, pocket-knife, pencil, of mdla-rubber, etc., wrapped in a pockethandker c hlef. After the fit the pati :: nt will evince a desire to go to sleep, and be allowed to do so, when he will probably awake alTlght. Stimulants should be avoided, indeed nothing should be given by the mouth whilst the patient is convulsed.

FAINTIK G

EPILEPSY.

Th a somewhat "tricky case" to Symptoms.- IS IS

Symptoms.- This is caused .by a failure of the heart's action, and may arise from fatigue, sudden fright, tight lacing or clothing, want of food, in a close atmo!'phere, or loss of. blood. Th.e patient IS pale, the pulse is hardly perc e ptIble, breathlO.g The attack is usually preceded by an attack of Tr eatmmt.-As already stated above, the primary come I mean in the sense that it is sometimes simulated by the artful "cadger" with a view to the sympathy of. the wary. To give an Ir,stance, I remem ber

\\T. COOKE & CO., LTD., soon after I commenced my studies, I came across an individual, who judging the symptoms was m the throes of a severe epileptic seizure. Pushing my way through the crowd, I at on c e commenced the usual treatment, loosened all tight clotbing, etc Just as I was about ro msert a gag, a policeman appeared upon the scene, gently elbowing me out, he seized my patient by the arm, and in tones by no means

dulcet he said, "Now

then, Soapy Sam, get

AMBULANCE TEAM OF

out of this ! " The t 1 Elsecar Collieries were se c ond and Atlas \Yorks soapy one got up, and Thirteen team,s compe ec, l j The maximum number of points were 'd I d t s (John Drown &. Co., Ltd .) wei e t 1 11( I SO dl ,an 1 wa 60 and the scoring \.vas 60, -17 and -b lespectlve y. some long time I again essayed the ' role of the "Good Samaritan." ThiS IS hardly descriptive of the genuine article,. but IS mentlOne.d to put my readers on tbeir guard rascals of type. To return once to the real thmg, the patient sometimes falls with a sh1'1ll cry to the ground, the the muscles of the body are convulsed, the are IStorted, the hands tightly clenched? the eyes dIlated,. and the pupils are not responsive to lIght. The face wlll first be pale but will later on assume a dusky hue, e will be froth' at the mouth and occasionally the 1l0strIls, and should the patient bite his tongue,. whlcb. they frequently do, the froth from the mouth will be tinged WIth

bIOodTl'eatment._Lay the patient down gently, .head h 1 th II w free clrcul- slightly raised, loosen all tlg t co mg, a 0 at ion of air, keep back all bystanders, a!ld gen t.l y :estID.Ill the patient to prevent him hurting h 1l'I1 self, It IS also

cause of fainting is a deficiency in the supply of blood to the brain, our main object, therefore, is to correct this. If the attack sbould occur in a crowded room, from which it is difficult for the moment to remove the patient, total collapse may be avoided by induc!ng the patient to lower the head over the knees thereby asslstll1g the flow of blood towards the brain. Should the patient have completely o st consciousness lay him down on the floor, or on a couch with head quite lo,\'. Loosen all clothing about the neck, ch e st, and abdomen. Promote as much air as possible by fanning, and opening all windows to create a draught, flick the chest with a bandage steeped in cold water, and bathe tbe face and hands. To further assist recovery apply

smelling salts to the nostrils. When the patient is sufficiently recovered and able t? swallow, he may be allowed to bave a little wea.k SpIrIt and water, or a teaspoonful of sal v olattie in a .nne-glass of water. If bleeding has caused the faintness. the be first attended to before proceedll1.g to treat tht fa1l1tll1g. (To be co nttllu cd).

I of the " Dewar" Shield Competition n our accoun in our last issue we regret we failed to mentIOn the name of Surgeon-Capt.ai.n. A J. Helm Montague, hon. of the Workso[J DIVISion, who acted as one of the Judge.

When corresponding with Advertisers please mention "First Aid."

MESSRS.

WINNERS OF THE "H. L. BROWr\ " ( SHEFFIELD ) CE-IALLENGE SHIELD, 1908 & I90 9·

A. C. Pinches.

G. \\!. Burkett.

A. Darby. O. Buxton.

C. Daniels.

STJOHN A.MBUU\NCt.

No. District (Metropolitan Corps.)

The annual inspection of this Corps is fixed to take place on Saturday, J 26th, a.t p. m. The inspecting officer will be the Chief CommlsslOner Inspector-General Belgrave Ninnis, R.N., M.D., who will be accompanied by the Chancellor of the Order of St. John, Viscount Knutsford, G.C.M.G., and the Inspection, by permission of the First Commissioner of Works, will take place on the Review Ground in Hyde Park, opposite Knightsbridge Barracks.

No. 2 District.

BRISTOL.-The Marquis of Breadalbane visited Bristol on May 18th. His Lordship, who was me t on arrival by the Deputy -Commissioner of the District (Dr. J. S. Griffiths), was first shown the he.adquarters of the corps in Unity-street. After a close inspection of the carriages and equipment, with all of which his lordship expressed himself as extre mely pleased, he was about taking his dEparture when a call was received. The prompt way in which the vehicle turned out evidently impressed the Marquis, who subs equently expressed to Corps Supt. Cotton his satisfaction at all he had seen. " I am more than delighted with the carriages and equipment," said his lordship; "they are the most up-to-date I have seen, and leave nothing to be desired. I must compliment you on the smart way in which you responded to the call."

In the evening the Marquis inspected the corps at the Engineers' Drill Hall. There was a capital muste r, which included the "F" Bearer Company, and the newly-formed Nursing Division. The Marquis, who was accompanied by the Deputy-Commissioner (Dr. J. S. Griffiths) and Asst. Commissioner Sprawson, first inspected corps in the open, after which a from e ach division went into the Hall and gave a dlsplay of ambulance work. Subsequently addressing the corps, the Marquis expressed his satisfaction at all he had seen. "We have heard a lot about the Bristol Corps at St. John's Gate," said his lordship, "I am therefore proud of the opportunity I have had of seeing the corps myself, that I may be enabled to tell those at 'The Gate,' who have not had that good fortune, what an admirable lot of ambulance men you have in Bristol." After an allusion to the Territorial Forces, and the necessity that existed that those individuals who from a variety of reasons were precluded from joining that force should join an ambulance corps, his lordship went on to say, "There is no doubt if ::ver such a calamity as an invasion of this country should take place, the Royal Army Medical Corps and the hospitals would be taxed to the very utmost. With the present modern weapons casualties would be enormous. It would therefore be a relief to the country to know that they had available a trained body of ambulance men capable of assisting the regular forces of the Crown." His lordship, in thankIng Dr. Griffiths for the opportunity of being present, referred to the turn-out he

AID. - June, 1909.

had witnessed in the afternoon, and complimented the men on their smartness, pointing out that from the time the telephone bell rang to the departure of the carriage the time occupied was under two minutes.

The Deputy-Commissioner, addressing the men, expressed his gratification at seeing so many on parade. H e was glad indeed to let them know at "St. John's Gate " that they were still alive at Bristol.

Chief Supt. Hayman reported that the street collection had resulted in the sum of £152 being placed to the credit of their funds.

In an appreciative little speech, the Chief Constabl e (Mr. Cann) expressed his thanks for the assistance rendered to the police by the members of the ambulance corps. R eferring to the smart way in which the vehicles turn out , " Frequently," said Mr. Cann, "my telephone bell rings at night a call to a fire. I think I'm smart sometimes, but I often find the ambulance wagon with men there before me. I am glad of this opportunity of expressing my gratitude for the help which your corps so willingly renders to the police and fire brigade."

A hearty vote of thanks was accorded to the Marqui s for his presence and kind remarks, and the parade was then dismissed.

EXl£TER.-The members of the above division hav e had a fairly busy time lately. From May 26th to 30th, 50 me mbers were on duty at the Bath and West of England Agricultural Show. An ambulance tent was clos e by the Ring and Grand Stand and fitted up WIth all th e necessary first aid equipment. Fortunately there were no serious cases either in the show or the streets. Only about a dozen minor cases were treated by the staff on duty. On Whit Monday a squad was on duty at the Exeter Cyclin g Club annual sports, which were held at the County Grounds. No serious casualties were dealt with. On th e morning oi June 6th, the division attended divine servic e at Emanuel Church, St. Thomas. There were 2S men on parade, Supt. Bowden being in command.

FOLKESTONE.-By kind permission of C. R. J elf, Esq., the annual [inspection of this division took place in th e cricket ground of the Grange School, on Wednesday evening, May 16th. There were on parade one sergt. and sixty rank and file, with Honorary Surgeons Vernon Dodd and Randall Davies, and Supt. F. A. Adams. The inspecting officer was Asst.-Commissioner Cotton. After the inspection of the division in line, five members were examined for promotion, and at the conclusion of the march past the men were drawn up and addressed by the inspecting officer, who congratulated all ranks on the way in which the various drills had been gone through, and suggested th e formation of a. Nursing Division before the next annual inspection. The Asst.-Commissioner then presented service stars, certificate and medallions. Headed by their band the division then marched back to the headquarters.

No. 3 District.

It was certainly a wise decision when the District Staff failed to obtain a suitable site at Cromer, decided upon Felixstowe for this year's training. The site, an admirable one, was close to the sea, in fact being only separated from it by the road.

Special arrangements had been made with the Railway Companies, and a special train was run through from Birmingham picking up the several contingents en route.

-FIRST

The main body had been preceded by a fatigue party, so that on arrival, the men were marched direct to their allotted lines, and, having draw beding, were subsequently served with a hot supper-which was very acceptable after the long railway journey. "Lights out" was the next order, but, the night being a grand one, many of the men remained outside the tents watching the Great Eastern Mail Boats crossing from Harwich to the Continent.

AID.-

run to Harwich, I pswich and Landguard. The Sergeants' Mess paid a visit to H.M.S. "Blenheim," and were courteously shown over this handsome vessel. The usual Camp Competitions were held and the several challenge trophies were awarded as follows :-" The Markham Cup" went to Birmingham (No. Squad) ; "The Guards' Shi eld, " went to No. 5 Company (N.-E. Warwick) which also secured the cup for the best kept lin es

W ednesday was ushered in with a downpour of rain but this did not interfere with the day 's plans, gre a t-coats were donned and the battallion set out for a fairly long route march, accomplishing some useful work on the outward journey. Returning to camp the men were dra wn up for inspection by the Chief Commission e r-Inspector-Gen eral Ninnis, R.N - who was payin g his official visit. Sub.;equently Dr. Ninnis presented the" Markham Cup " and congratulated the winn ers.

Sp eaking of the camp, h e remarked that in pre vious years it had been his good fortun e to see th e ir camp under fair weather conditi ons ; to-d a y he had seen it under foul wea th e r and h e found it just as good . They had stru ck out a n e w d e parture in comin g to th e seaside and the result ha d been that more men h a d bee n pre sent. P ersonally, he was m ore in favo ur o f go in g n ear er t he centre of th e dis t rict becaus e it gave everybody a better chance to 'att end, but the seaside had its adva ntages, inasmuch that the men could have th eir rela tiv es a round a nd sp e nd a good holid a y.

The total strength of the camp was on arrival :- 28 officers, 38 sergeants, and 353 corporals and privates.

On Sunday morning a short parade was held at 7, and breakfast served at 8, and, after the lines had been Inspected, the men fell in for church parade headed by the bugle-band, they were marched to St. Church, were a special form of ServIce was conducted by the Rev. Dore Rudgard, a short address was given by the rev. gentleman, and at the close a collection was made, the proceeds of which it was t<,> share between the British OphthalmIC HospItal and the Church. The march back to Camp was a warm one and the "call" for dinner was a welcome ;ne. It's a remarkable thing-but the rawest "rookie" always recognises the " cook-house" summons, and is seldom late for that parade. After dinner the men were free for the rest of the day. A large number of visitors visited the camp.

The usual routine camp work was followed during the week the lines were periodically Photo bJI inspected, and, at night, the usual "Guard" was posted. The parades each day we:-e held at 7 and 9.15. The former usually conSIsted .of. company and battallion drill the latter conSIstIng of field manreuvres - the searching for, and treatment <,>f woun?ed and their subsequent transport to the statlc:m. The afternoons were left free to the men, a pnvilege whIch was much appreciated, as many <,>f them had arranged for their families to spend the week In the town. A?vantage was also taken of the privilege to make up partIes for a

[Emery, tValto1l GI VIN G O UT RATIONS, FELI XSTOWE CAMP.

Th e cam p was under the com mand o f Ellistor:, YD., the Deputy -Commissioner of the Dlstnct, and hIS staff consisted of Asst. -Commissioner Woolston, who acted Chief of Staff District Chief Surgeon Audland (P.M.O.), Gibb Major), District Sup.t. of Stores the Rev. Dore Rudgard (Acting Adjutant), ChIef Supt. Trenery (Quartermaster), Supt, W. J. Parsons (Transport Officer)

Plwto by]

[Em e ry, TValt(m. WINNER S OF "G UARD" SHIELD, FELIX STOWE CA MP.

-FIRST

The Company Commanders were :-Na. I, Chief Supt. Harvey Reeves, Northampton; No.2, Chief Supt. Nicholson, Wellingborough; NO.3, Chief Supt. Turner, N. Leicester; NO.4, Supt. Sec. Hawkins, Birmingham; No. 5, Chief Surgeon Orton, N.R Warwick.

A special mede of praise must be awarded to Firstclass Sergt. Smeathers for the efficient way in which he catered for the Sergeants' Mess.

On Thursday night the weather which had been threatening, freshened into a gale, and a stormy night was experienced, raising in some quarters an element of doubt as to whether the canvas would stand, but thanks to the excellent way in which the tents had been pitched the damage done was only slight.

The weather on Friday was such as to render work outsi.de but in lieu thereof, a very interesting and instructive series of short lectures were given in a large marquee by the various Honorary Surgeons in camp, the subjects comprising Camp Sanitation, Water Duties, and the Care of Armies in the Field. In the evening a very successful concert was organised by the officers and men assisted by a few Felixstowe ladies and visitors and hel? in the Canteen tent. DUI ing the Col. Elhston read the following telegram which had been received from H.R. H. the Prince of Wales Grand Prior of Order of St. John of Terusalem :-

" To Col. Elliston, Felixstowe Camp.

" I sincerely thank you, the officers and men of No. " of the St..1 ohn Ambulance Brigade for your kind greetings on my blrthd3y.-George."

was received with great enthusiasm, all present ]Ollllng III one verse of "God Bless the Prince of 'Vales."

The camp broke up on Saturday, June 5th, the men the Midlands leaving the Beach Station in a specIal train. All ranks have greatly appreciated the week by the sea, the bathing parade at 6 a. m. was a special feature, and ha? been \V.ell patronised. Previous camps have been held 111 more pIcturesque localities' but never in a healthier or more invigorating one.

No. 5 District.

The No. 5 District Camp was again held on the North Shore, B1ackpool, during Whitsun week. There were 18 officers and 169 rank and file in camo. This is less than last year, chieiJy owing to depressIon 111 trade.

The detachments arrived on Saturday, May 29 th from Tibshelf, Welbeck, Buxton North Staffs Wath' Denaby, Worksop, Heanor, Cresw'ell, Pontefract 'Birst.1I1' Bradford, Keighl ey, Castleford, North Lllldsey and Sheffield.

District Chief Supt. H. C. Else was in command with P. Ratcliff as adjutant, the 'other officers present 111 camp were Chief Surgeon Riddell (Rotherham), Hon. Surgeon and Supt. W. T. Wood (Creswell), Hon. Surgeons Dearden and Damms (Sheffield) Supts. Noble (Keighley), Morphet (Settle) Barnard (Denaby), Lawton (Tibshelr), ISt Officers E'. G. Allen (Work sop), Wood (Heanor), Preston (Creswell) Amery (Pontefract), Whiteley (Huddersfield), 2nd Else Vd Officer Jackson (Ti bshelf), and 4th Officer Mtlnes (Denaby).

The various contingents were formed into 3 Com1st Officer Allen (Work sop) being in command of A Company, Hon. Surgeon and Supt. Wood (Creswell)

AI D.- June, 1909

in or " B " Company, and Supt. Noble (Keighley) Il1 command of ".C" Company, 1st Class Sergt. Burkett (Rotherham) actmg as Camp Sergt.-Major.

On Whit Sunday morning there was a Church Parade for service at John's Church, the weather being beautIfully fine. ,"Vh)t Monday, however, opened wet, and there were consequen.tly no An interesting lecture, however, was gIven by ChIef Surgeon H.iddtll of the Corps, in the men's mess tent, on "Military SamtatlOn." The remainder of the week was taken up from rev.eille. at 5'3.0 a.m. to dinner at p.m. with stretcher dnll with patients; questions being afterwards asked by surgeons on the work done. Company and dnll was also practised. DeputyCommIssIoner S. C. Wardell vIsited the camp on Whit Monday, and was entertained to luncheon by the officers.

On Thursday at I a.m. the alarm was sounded, th e whole of the ?ffice.rs and n:en, with two exceptions (two men on the SIck lIst), turnmg out and falling in at the saluting flag in 5 minutes.

On Friday the inspection was held, Col. Sir James R. Clark, c.B., Commissioner S.J.A.B., being Inspect1l1g officer. After the general salute the men marched past in column and quarter column: and were then formed up for stretcher drill. Patients were sent out and after were brought in, and the inspectin g officer questIOned the several squads on the work done addressing a fe w words to the parade before mIssal. Subsequently Sir James inspected the messin g the stores, and the lines, making a keen and close Inspection of everything. In the afternoon th e Sports were held.

Saturday being wet, a rear guard was left to strik e Ca.mp, the remainder of the men leaving by the 1.37 p.m. tram. The weather, WIth the exceptions mentioned, was nne, and the health of the men generally good.

No. 6 District.

.The an.nouncement of the reslgna tion of Col. Gibbon, hIS a ppOIntment as Deputy -Commissioner of this Distnct,. h8.s been received with general regret, for since his appomtment to the position he has by his unvaryin g his never tact and the whole hearted way 111 whIch he has carned out the duties in connection with the appointment, gained the regard and esteem of all of those with whom he has been associated with in connection in this part of the kingdom. ]11 notlfYlllg hIS resIgnatIOn, Col. Gibbon desires to thank the Medical and Am bulance Officers and members of the Ambu.lance Corps and Divisions, and the Nursing Officers and SIsters ?f the Divisions, who have SCl loyally sUPPOl:ted him dUTlng hIS command, and for the courtesy a.nd kmdness he has at all times received. The happy he has had with the Brigade, and the pleasant assoc iatIOns connected with his tenure of office will ever remain green in his memory, and had it not for certain unfortunate circumstances which have recently he. would gladly have continued to g ive ungrudglOgly. hiS whole services to the Brigade in the as It has always been a pleasure to him to do in the past.

Since the Invalid Transport Section of the Northam pton Corps was started, no fewer than 1,600 cases have been :emoved. The total for the 12 months just ended IS J 59.

AND CHATHAM RAILWAY.-On the 13 th ult., a concert was held in the Parish Hall, Ash, having as its object the arousing of an interest in first aid work by those living in the neighbourhood. A demonstration by members of the Ash Railway Team formed not the least interesting item of the programme. The opportunity was also taken for presenting Dr. Wright, tbe lecturer to the late class at Ash, with a handsome clock and ornaments to match, a from tbe members of the class. The certificates gained by the members of the Queen borough Class were distributed by his Worship the Mayor of Queenborougb, at a smoking concert held in that town on the 14th May. The Mayor said that tbey had had experience of the good work done by the mem bers of the Class in their town, and it was very comforting to them all to know that there were men at hand able to render D'ood service in case of need. He was proud to be able fo say that he was President of the Queenborougb Corps, and he would always have the welfare of first aiders at heart.

A similar gathering was held at Margate, on Monday, 17 th , when the Mayor of Margate distributed tbe certificates, etc., gai ned by the members of the Margate Class.

A feature of the evening was the excellent musical programme carried out by the Stewart Concert Party who gave their services and to whom a large share of the thanks for tbe success of the evening are certainly due.

Other meetings have been held during the month-at Hither Green, when Mr. F. H. Dent, Goods Manager, presented the awards: at Wokingham, presided over by the Mayor of Wokinghamj at Battersea, when an excellent concert was made the occasion for tbe presentations of certificatesj at Orpington, Sevenoaks, and at New Cross, where the first part of the programme took the form of a demonstration. In every instance, the members of the classes have expressed their thanks to their Medical Instructor in a tangible way by asking their acceptance o f various gifts subscribed for by the members.

On tbe occasion of the New Cross Meeting, the opportunity was taken for presenting to Dr. R. D. Muir, the vellum vote of thanks, awarded to that gentleman by the Cbapter of the Order for services rendered.

The annual demonstrations at Longhedge Works will be held on Saturday, July 17th.

N.RR.-The annual competitions and field day of the Hull and East Riding District of the North-Eastern Railway Centre of tIle St. John Ambulance Association were held this year at Filey, and took. place on Satu:day, 12th inst., in the Crescent-gardens, whIch had been kmdly lent for the purpose. Special excursions were run from Hull and the intermediate stations, and there was a large gatbering of the friends and supporters of .competing teams. The arrangements for the compehtlOns were as usual carried Ollt by Mr. G. Jackson (the general

AI D.-

secretary of the N.-RR. Centre), and Mr. L. Blakes (the district han. secretary, Hull.).

In addition to the Hull District Challenge medals, four sets of valuable prizes were offered, the first being solid leather silver-mounted dressing bags, and the second sets of handsome carvtrs.

Dr. J. D. Leigh, of Durham, who acted as judge for the stretcher test, gave the case of a patient supposed to be suffering from a large wound of the front of the right elbow joint, with profuse hcernorrhage. The patient had to be treated and conveyed home on a stretcher. Each team consisted of nve men, one of whom had to act the part of the patient. The viva voce test was give the symptoms and treatment of injury to the stomach, the spleen, the treatment for capillary hcemorrhage, the definition and symptoms of a sprain, and the indications and treatm e nt of a heat stroke? The judge announced the results as follows :-

1St. Dock Engineers, 180 points out of a possible 210.

2nd. Hull Kingston-street, 133 points.

3rd. Market Weighton, I22 points.

4tb. Dock Company, 14 points.

The prizes were presented by Mrs. Williamson, and votes of thanks were accorded to Dr. Lei g h, the Gardens Committee, and Mrs. Williamson.

Ambulance Amenities.

THE LIGHTER SIDE OF FIRST Am CLASSES.

UNDER the above heading our weekly contemporary Answers has a number of interesting Ambulance Anecdotes, and although we may question the accuracy of some, we cannot deny that many are quite original and decidedly amusing The following verses on "What to do in case of Poisoning" are decidedly clever, and if committed to memory may enable an Ambulance student going up for examination, to grapple with the intricacies surrounding treatment of Alkalis and Acids, and to remember the dIStinctive characteristics of irritants and corrosives.

Send for the doctor, name the drug suspected, Keep any cup where poison is suspected; n every case, whate'er the poison be, You may give water, milk, and tea; Oils may be used, but two exceptIons he In phosphorous poisoning and in Spanish fly.

I n every case where staining is not found, To give emetics is both safe and sound; So mix at once -b e quick, but don't be flL1steredTwo tablespoons of salt or one of If stains are present, then proceed WIth care, And of emetics most of all beware.

The poison known, to make the patient placid, For alkali corrosives, give an acid; An acid swallowed, then reverse the matter, And give an alkali to kill the latter.

The acid antidotes in household use

Are table vinegar and lemon juice; What alkalies to use need no revea11l1gTake whitewash, chalk, or plaster from the ceiling. Carbolic acid poisoning. To make the patient easier, Give tablespoonfuls two of sulphate of magnesJa. In opium poisoning, he snores old Druid: Give him a teaspoonful of Condy s F lUld* ; . In strychnine -o pium; when there's long stagnatIon Resort to artificial respilation.

* In haIfa lumbler of lI'ater

-FIRST Brevities.

No better exponent of Imperial unity could possibly have been selected to welcome the mem bers of the Press from British Dominions beyond the Seas than Lord Rosebery. His Lordship is one of our most gifted orators, and his views on the desirability of drawing closer the bonds which unite the Empire have gained for him the regard and esteem of men of every shade and opinion in every part of the Empire. Very touching in its simplicity was the commencement of his great speech, taking as his keynote those all inspiring words, "Welcome Home." It is well nigh impossible, says one who was there, to realise the effect on Britain's sons from distant lands beyond the sea, It was the Mother Nation's message, delivered by one of her noblest sons, and it went, as it was intended it should do, straight to the heart of every member of that vast assembly.

* * *

A s is well known, Lord Rosebery is no fire brand, but he has an intense love for his country, and he realises how necessary it is, that, the question of Imperial Defence should be as well nigh perfect as human fore-sight can make it. We may deplore the growth of modern armaments, but all the tim e other powers persist in challenging our naval supremacy, Great Britain cannot afford to stay her hand Her very existence as one of the leading nations of the world, may one day depend upon her ability to enforce her claim.

* * *

IT is true, as his Lordship says, that this craze for gigantic armaments would appear to indicat e a return to the barbarism of our ancestors, and we trust that these scathing words will be seriously pondered over, in a country which has on more than one occasion reiterated its notice for peace, and yet persists in its effort to attain naval supremacy. The mission of these representatives of the Press of Greater Britain is essentially a peaceful one, but at the same time it is intended to prove to other people that Britain and her Colonies are absolutely determined to maintain intact the int egrity of King Edward's Throne. The Monarch who was so aptly described by Lord Roseberyas "The King of Hearts."

* **

THE Wesleyans, says a contemporary, are not accredited as a class with the possession of a superfluous sense of humour, least of all when in the exercise of functions religious. But Dr. Scurfield, who delivered an address at Sheffield recently, made his audience with laughter at a cleverly turned compliment. He was addressing particularly the members of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, whom he hailed as colleagues in the noble work of promoting the principles of public health. "In this

AI D.- June, 1909.

respect," he added, "you have the advantage of me, be cause while I am paid for being good, you are good for nothing."

* * *

THE value of motor traction in connection with accidents in civil life is daily becoming more and more recognised, and its use in the army will most assuredly become more general as time goes on. In the case of warfare in this country it would be of great importance to get the wounded men away from the front to the hospital centres as fast as possible. Motor cars could be extremely useful in this respect, and special ambulances could be left in the rear by the roadside ready for use and towed away by lorries or powerful cars so as to eliminate the vibration which is inevitable when a vehicle is propelled by its own engine. There is something in this suggestion which is well worthy the consideration of the army medical department. It is one fault that is lodged against the motor ambulance that it is at times when first starting off liable to plunge forward. To wounded men suffering from shattered limbs and other serious injuries this would be most distressing, anything that is likely to obviate it therefore should be carefully co nsidered.

THE resignation by Colonel Gibbon of his appointment as Deputy Commissioner of the No. VI. District of the St. John Ambulance Brigade may be regarded as a serious calamity, not only for the district over whose affairs he has so ably ruled for some years, but in a measure it is one which affects the welfa re of the whole Brigade. Colonel Gibbon was a strong man and one who was neither to be brow-beaten or cajoled into a compliance with orders, which on the face of them bore unmistakeable evidence that they were issu ed, not in the best interests of the Brigade, but with a view to punish a certain section, who had had the manliness to assert their rights as free citizens of a free country, and had joined the defensive forces of the Crown. We have no desire to r e fer to the part, which, we haVE from time to tim e felt compelled to take in connection with th ese matters. Realising as we often have the serious situation which had been created by the regrettable actions of the tactless administration which is at present in power at Headquarters, we have felt glad to remem ber that the Districts were represented by strong men-men whose connection with the movement was not the birth of yesterday, but was the growth of years - such was, and is, the situation to -day. But how long will it remain so?

WE can quite anticipate that men with strong individuality are not favoured by the present autocracy who may be desirous of filling their places with more pliable subordinates. For the welfare of the Brigade we trust it may not be so, but we would in all sincerity strongly urge upon upon those members of the Order who take an interest in

June, 1909 -FIRST

the Brigade, realising that it is one of their most valued departments, to take steps to ascertain by means of an independent commission whether the present condition of the Brigade is altogether satisfactory. In making this suggestion we are aware that we may be charged with exceeding our privileges as censor, but we cannot help fee ling that Col. Gibbon has to all intents and purposes been driven out of the Brigade, as a r es ult of his disinclination to submit to treatment, which to put it mildly, was intend ed to irritate, if nothing worse. Declining to take it "on the knee" he resign e d, and the Brigade is the poorer for the loss of one of its ablest exponents.

WE have no desire to pose as alarmist, but we do know as a positive fact that at the present time there is a very deep feeling of unrest in the Brigade, and the feeling is not confined by any means to the rank and file, but is pregnant in much higher circles. In the Director of the Ambulance Department, we feel sure, th e Brigade has a real friend. The Marquis of Breadalbane is one of those men who at once inspires implicit confidence, he has visited several districts of the Brigade, and gained the regard of its members, and a commission presided by his Lordship would, we think, be the means of cleanng the air, and would, we hope, lead to the work being carried o n in the future with an absence of friction. The Brigade is the finest volunteer force in this or any other country, and its members are proud of their connection with the brand old Order from which they take their name, and properly handled they will never swerve from their allegiance, but recently their loyalty has been strained well nigh to "breaking point."

About 80 members of the Manchester and Salford Corps, under Chief Superintendent Cryer, attended Divine Service at the Manchester Cathedral on June 6th, the occasion being the first parade of this Corps. The Archdeacon of Manchester in the co urse of his sermon emphasised the necessity of a sense o f personal obligation in all philanthropy labour.

PRESTON.- The many friends of Inspector Amos Howard of the Borough Police and of the Preston Corps, S.].A.B.', will learn with genuine satisfaction of his enro lment as an Honorary Serving Brother of the Order of th e Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem. Insp ector Howard has for many years past done yeoman service the bulance cause and has thoroughly earned thiS decoratIOn. In addition to other honours it may be mentioned that the Inspector has the Long Service Medal of the Order.' also the Bron ze Medal given by the Order for service In connection with the South African War. Inspector Howard served in the Rhodesian Field Force, holding the rank of Sergeant-Major, and earned high econiums from the officers under whom he served.

AI D.Our Portrait Gallery.

DR. RAPIlAEL VILLAVICENCIO, PRESIDENT OF THE NATIONAL RED CROSS SOCIETY OF VENEZUELA.

IT is with more than ordinary pleasure that we present our readers this month with the portrait of a distinguished foreign exponent of the am bulance cause, and that pleasure is intensified from the fact that th e very successful

organisation over which the subject or our sketch so ably presides, owes its inception to the efforts of one of our own distinauished countrymen.

\\rhen in I868 the principles of the Red Cross Convention of' Geneva' were accepted and signed by the. great European powers and the United States of a small number of South American States, to realise the humanitarian nature of the Convention, ar: d but imperfectly understandi ng ,its and dId not become signatories to It; Indeed It was not until the 9t h of Tuly, 1894, that the U :J signed the protocol, which she dId at the Instlga.t1on ,of the late Sir Vincent Kennett - Barrington,. who It w.ll.l be within the recollection of our readers, paid. VISits to Venezuela in connection with the finanCIal of the t an d it was during one of these VISits that the coun ry, fl' d negotiations were brought to a success!l Issue, an Venezuela was placed upon the same as the sick and wounded in war, as the other slgnatones to the Convention.

Although she was one of the last t<? rally to the Conthe people have fully realIsed the humane ventlOn, t d character of its work and the Red Cross 1S e everywhere throughout the country. The SOCIety IS under

r86 -FIRST

the patronage of the Government, and has the hearty support and co-operation of the Government officials, who render all the necessary assistance for its development in time of peace, recognising how valuable will be the aid it can furnish in the hour of difficuity and public calamity, independently of its value in time of war.

Primarily the organisation has of course been formed with the object of mitigating the horrors and sufferings incidental to war, but the Venezuelan Society has fully proved, that it is not unmindful of the fact, that Peace hath her victims as well as War. In connection with its peace propaganda it has extended and developed its sphere of action, and instruction is now freely given the principles of first aid to be rendered to those stricken down by sudd e n illness or accident. These sLlccessful results have been achieved by th e collaboration of private philanthrophy, and the generous support and co-operation of the Venezuelan Government, which has granted to the Society special privileges, and has also rendered it substantial assistance.

Ever since the formation of the Society the task of organising the conduct of its work has been admirably conducted by its President, Dr. Villavicencio, ,,,,hose energy and enthusiasm has successfully ena bled him to surmount all difficulties and obstacles, some of which might well have daunted a less strong personality. Dr. Villavicencio who practically devotes the whole of his le isure time to the propagation of the work, is an exMinister of Public Education. He is a Professor in the Science of Th era peutics, and his advice and counsel has on more than one occasion been requisitioned by the Venezuelan Government.

It is gratifying to learn that the development of this humanitarian work, which is organised on similar lines to that of our own St. John Ambulance Association, has far exceeded the anticipation of its founders. That organisations or this charac:ter may be of the greatest possible use in time of public calamity, or national emergency, we in this country fully realise. It is, therefore, a matter of pride to us as a nation, to know that mainly through the efforts of one of our own coue.trymen the blessings of this beneficient work are now being realised in the vast continent of South America. Surely, the friends of Sir Vincent could wish for him no more lasting memorial, tempered with but one regret, that he had not lived to see the growth of the plant, the seed of which was sown by himself.

In the conduct of the work Dr. Villavicencio is ably supported by a large body of volunteers, who by their devotion to the cause, and the personal sacrifices which they are at all times ready to make on its behalf, set an example to their fellow citizens, which in time will undoubtedly lead to a still greater extension of the ambulance movement in this part of the American continent.

On the part of his English confi-eres we tender to Dr. Villavicencio our warmest commendations on the success -the great success-which has attended his efforts in the past, and we wish him health and strength to still further its. interests i.n the future. May the principles which are In the teaching of first aid, and the sympathy With human suffering which its knowledge inspires, lead to a greater regard for the sacredness of ?uman life and a diminution of those racial quarrels which In the past have done so much to disturb and retard the pr0gress of the South American continent.

WHEN CORRESPONDING WITH ADVERTISERS PLEASE MENTION "FIRST AID."

A I D.·- June, 1909

Co ming Events.

I'm -licit/an oJ fort/teollling evc 17ts will be inse1'ted ill tllis coitml1l !1'ee 0/ chmge, 1/ received 770t late?' than the I4t/z of eadl mon//t

Bradf01'd.-The division are holding a combined Church parade of the local fire brigades and ambulance divisions and frontiermen on Sunday, July 18th. The parade will assemble at the Central Fire Station, Helson-street, at 2 p.m.

Cleckhcaton.- The third annual ambulance competition for the" Cleckheaton" Challenge Shield and valuable prizes will be held on July 3ISt, open to all ambulance teams. Particulars from Mr. A. Dickinson, Whitechapel-road, Cleckheaton.

Ella71d.- The annual ambulance and fire brigade competition will be held at the Recreation Ground on July 24th. shields and valuable prizes are to be competed for. Particulars and entry forms from Mr. A. Tate, 8, James -s treet, Eiland. competltlOn in connection with the Malton, Norton and District Temperance Gala, on Thursday, July 22no, commencing at 7 p.m. Entrance fee, 2S. 6d.; entries close July 12th. Particulars from M r. J. J. Temple, 36, Commercial-street, orton, Malton.

Paddt'71gt07? - The Great Western Railway (M etropolItan Corps No. 37 Division ) ,,·i ll hold the sixth annual Concert at the Ladbroke Hall, r\otting Hill, on June 24th. Tickets can be had from Mr. A. E. Evans, Audit Office G.\V. Ry., Paddington Station, price 2S., IS., and 6d. each.

Raventhorje.- The fifth annual competition for the Silver Challenge Cup and other valuable pri zes will be held on September I Ith, open to all corps and divisions; also competition for Asso ciatio n teams. Entry forms may be had on application to tbe secretary, Mr. W. Ledgard, Alma House, Ravenstborpe -road, Thornhill. near Dewsbury.

Sklpton.-Am bulance competition in connection with the Skipton and District Hospital Gala will be held on Saturday, July 17th. A nursing competition will take place on the same day. Further particulars from Mr. T. Hudson, 48, Russellstreet, Skipton.

camp and comp etItIon of the National Fire Brigades' Union will be held from July 3rd to Joth.

A Special Commission of the British Fire Prevention Committee left London recently for North Germany, to study various matt e rs relating to fire, more particularly in respect to theatre safety, petrol storage, warehouses and shops.

In our May number we referred to the classes which were being organised by Viscountess Esher in connection with the St. John Ambulance Association. These classes are designated "St. John Ambulance Association, Territorial Branch, Section A, County of London." Already classes-many of which have been for working women and the members of working girls' clubs - have been held; and upwards of a dozen members of the Medical Staff have been engaged in conducting the lectures. Other classes are already arranged for the autumn by Lady Esher, and will commence shortly after the summer recess. It is gratifying to know that the movement is not confined to the metropolis, in Berkshire Lady Barry is organising, under the patronage ofH.R.H. Princess Christi3.n, "Territorial Branch, Section B., County of Berks.

June ,

Yorkshire M ines In s pection Di st rict

SINCE its formation in 1906 much valuable work has been accomplished by the League, and by its means much encouragement has been giyen to the ambulance movement, especially among the various ambulance corps connectf'd with the numerous collieries in Yorkshire.

The annual competition for the challenge shield and medals took place in April and May, the final round being held at the Corn Exchange, Wakefield, on May 8th, before a large and representative audience of owners, managers

FEATHERSTONE MAIN

AI D .-

were :-Elscar No. I and Elscar No. 2 (South Yorks), Featherstone Ma.in and Allerton Bywater (West Yorks).

The principal trophy is, of course, the handsome shield presented by the President of the League (the Hon. E. Wood), which the are entitled to hold for twelve months; in addition to which each member of the team and the instructor receive a gold medal. The other teams in the final and their instructors rective a silver medal.

The judging this year was undertaken by Drs. J. G. Murray and R. Fell, of Scarborough, who, after a searching examination, awarded the first place to Featherstone Main, who succeeded in obtaining 212 marl<s out of a possible 260. The following was the order in which the team.., finished ;-

AMBULANCE TEAM.

and workmen. Much interest was evinced in the proceedings, and the various stages of the competition were keenly watched.

..,

For the purposes of the the district IS divided into two sections, West Yorkshire and South Vorkshi!"e, the former comprising eight divisions and latter seven. This year forty-seven from West orksh)[e, and seventy-three from South Yorkshlre, took part 10 the competition which was divided into three rounds. In the first round the team securing the premier position i,: division was selected the mem bers of each tp.am recelv111g a bronze medal. In second stage two teams from both ,;Vest and South Yorkshire were selected for the fina l, and these

[froll aJ/d Coal T radl'S' l\c,·icw. Chilton. J. Whi ttaker.

I. Featherstone Main 2 I 2 marks.

2. Elscar NO.2 18 31

3. Allerton Bywater J 67 "

4. ElscarNo, I

At the cl0se of the competitIOn the shIeld and prl ze s were presented by the President, had been a keen and interested spectator of the for hiS trophy.. While the marks 'were bemg totalled up, Sir Richard Temple, Deputy Chairman of the St. John Amb.ulance Association gave a short address. After congratulatmg the promote-rs the Leagu e on the success which had attended their efforts, he went on to remark that wherever he went, either in England or Wales, he found the greatest en-

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couragement given to ambulance work by those who had control of the mining industries. He advocated that in the near future it should be made compulsory that applicants for superior posts should possess the certificate of the St. John Ambulance Association, and also have a knowledge of rescue work. Sir Richard also advocated the formation of nursing classes for the wives and daughters of the colliers.

In presenting the shields and medals to the respective teams the Hon. Edward Wood heartily congratulated the mem bers of the Featherstone Main team upon their success. It afforded him much pleasure to hand to them the shield which he had the honour to present to the League for competition. He hoped that the losing teams would not be discouraged, but would profit by the example set by the winning team, and do their utmost to secure the trophy another year. Proceeding, Mr. Wood went on to say he was sure anyone who witnessed that competition for the first time could not help being impressed with the manner in which the work was carried out and the intense interest displayed. He thought they would agree with him, that the work tfiey had witnessed that afternoon was a noble work and had before it a great future. He then handed the shield and medals to the teams in the order in which they finished.

A hearty vote of thanks was accorded to the judges for the able and painstaking way in which they had discharged their duties.

Dr. Murray, who responded, said their duties that day had been by no means an easy one. However, it had given both himself and his colleague very much pleasure to judge that competition. He believed that he (Dr. Murray) was one of the first judges in that competition, and he could truthfully say the teams had improved by leaps and bounds since the inauguration of the competition.

Hearty votes of thanks were also accorded to the Hon. E. Wood and Sir Richard Temple, and the latter briefly responded, after which the proceedings terminated.

London Ambulance Service.

THE Report of the Committee on this question, which was pr esented to the Home Office, is far too voluminous to publish in our columns, although it is full of interest, especially to our London readers, whom we should advise to obtain a copy and to study it both carefully and in detail.

The main recommendations are signed by all three Commissioners-Sir Kenelm Digby, the Earl of Stamford, and Sir W. J. Collins, the latter, however, appends a lengthy qualifying memorandum.

The Commissioners are unanimous in their recommendation as to the desirability of establishing a motor ambulance service within the administrative County of London. It would be necessary to have some ten stations at a yearly. charge of about 500 each:

The CommISSIoners lay stress upon the fact that statistics the of some means of dealing effect ively With the ever mcreaslOg num ber of accidents occurring in the streets of London, a large proportion of which are of a very serious nature.

The following table, abstracted from the Police Report for 1906, shows how the cases of accident and

AI D.- June, 1909.

sudden illness in the streets were dealt with, and, by inference, the inadequacy of the ambulance service ;-

June, 1909· -FIRST An Ambulance Display.

A I D.-

flames, the ambulance men rushed in and effected rescues. After this was accomplished they rendered first aid to the patients they had carried out.

of the former, 4,554; and of the latter, 1,8II; of the cases occurred within a quarter of a mile of a wheeledlitter. The total number of such litters available for the police at present is 399, of which 276 belong to the police themselves; others being provided by the late Mr. H. L. Bischoffsheim; the S.J.A.A. and other bodies.

For the carrying out of the ambulance service, Sir Keneim Digby and the Earl of Stamford recommend the utilisation of the Metropolitan Asylums Board; Sir William Collins, however, argues that it should be placed under the control of either the police or the L.e.e., preferably the latter. He points out that the City ambulance system is under the control of the City Corporation, and works admirably. That if the Service were carried out by the Metropolitan Asylums Board it would not be any cheaper. The other Commissioners admit this. Sir William also draws attention to the probable risk of infection that there might be, and considers that the existing six stations of the Board are not suitable for ambulance work--being located in out of the way places. He also points out that the previous Committee which considered the subject, a few years ago, also recommended the L.e.e. as the proper authority to have control of the Service.

It will be noted that the Report does not recommend any collaboration with the Fire Stations, but the creation of stations ad hoc.

Expert opinion rather inclines towards the views expressed in the memorandum, but, for our part, we strongly favour a police ambulance service, both on the score of efficiency and economy.

In connection with the Territorial Forces Exhibition at the Royal Agricultural Hall, Islington, :-tn interesting display was given by the Ladies' First Aid Nursing Yeomanry Corps, on May 25th, when they both demonstrated th e efficiency in rendering first aid to the wounded and also their skill in horsemanship.

NEW ZEALAND.-The annual report for this District just issued is a record of continued progress. It states that there are now 59 Corps and Divisions on the roll of the Brigade in the Dominion, and the membership which was 1,039 last year, is now 1,302. The strongest ambulancF. units are Dunedin, with 48 members; and Christchurch, with 4 r. Dunedin heads the list of Nursing Divisions, with an enrolled strength of 62 members, 53 of whom are in possession of the medallion. Four new Divisions have been formed. The number of first aid cases attended, not on public duty, was 576, as against 250 for the previous year. The number of cases privately nursed by members of the Nursing Divisions was 81, as against 45 for 1908. The question of forming an Ambulance Reserve for the Volunteer Force is under consideration.

WHEN CORRESPONDING

AN interesting ambulance display organised by Sergeant Edward Selinger, of the No. 30 Division of the Metropolitan Corps, was held at the Jewish Free School London, on June 13th. Several novel features were 10eluded in the display, and one which evidently was appre-

THE

Another scene was a "Boy accidentally shot in the head." A pistol was fired, followed by a shriek, and a boy rushed out of the house bleeding ; the am bulance men were called and were soon on the spot, treating the case exactly as if it was a real one.

SURREY AND SUSSEX AMBULANCE TROPHY.

ciated from a spectacular point of view, was "J:. house on fire." A special structure had been erected 10 the hall, which in due course was ignited. Flames and leaped out in a plentiful quantity, and with the 10 darkness it gave a very realistic moment, when the inmates looked hke perlshmg 10 the

A distribution of certificates followed the display, and Mr. Franks, on behalf of the" Fir.st Aid." Club, presented Sergt. Selinger with a handsome sLIver case. The men who took part in the dlsplay were Franks, Lettaur, Stark, H. Robart, J. Robart, ShlOefold, Greenberg, Bernstein and Solomons.

WITH ADVERT ISER8 PLEASE MENTION "FIRST AID."

Business Items.

ACTON.-An enquiry was held by the L.G.B. on June [5th with respect to an application of the V.D.C for sanction of a loan of ;6 1,000 for the provision of fire hydrants.

BEDWELTy.-The D.D.C are negociating for a site upon which to erect a new fire station and stores.

BRISLlNGToN.-The P.C propose to erect a fire stalion at an esti mated cost of £390

LITTLEBOROUG H. - The U. D. C have decided to apply to the L.G. B. for permission to borrow £200. for the purchase of a first aid hose tender.

LOI DON FIRE BRIGADE.- The London Fire Brigade have just taken delivery of another motor fire engine, the most powerful yet buill for them. It is a steam-driven machine of an entirely new type, having separate propelling and pumping engines with quick-steaming boiler fitted with a very efficient oil-burner. The new motor, which has successfully passed all its tests, including running, hillclim bing, ctc., comes from the works of Messrs. Shand, Mason and Co., of Blackfriars. The pumping powers of the engine are exceptional, a delivery of some 500 gallons per minute being obtained. It will thus be of great service at serious fires in the warehouse and manufacturing districts of the Metropolis.

SHOEBURYNESS.- The D. D.C have received the sanction of the L.G.B. to the borrowing of £900 for the erection of pu blic offices and afire station.

TUNSTALL.- The L.G. B. held an inquny on June 14th into the applications of the D.nc for permission to borrow £300 for the provision of a new fire engine.

WALTHAl\1STOW.- The L.G.B. have sanctioned the use by the Council of the site at the corner of Forest-road and Wood-street for the erection of a fire station, and the Fire Brigade Committee have been asked to consider the question of plans.

Wharncliffe Silkstone Barnsley. Collieries,

MR. FRED BOTTOMLEY HONOURED.

On June. 12th! one of the most interesting gatherll1g Il1 connectIon WIth ambulance work, ever held in these parts, took place at the Wharncliffe Silkstone Collieries when Mr. Fred BOllomley, the secretary of the local lance classes, and who has charge of the Rescue Stalion there, was publicly presented with the Vellum Vote of Thanks of the Grand Priory of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem in England, in recognition of his long and valuable services to am bulance work.

Lieut.-Col. Walker, a director of the Colliery Company, presided, and congratulated Mr. Boltomley on the great honour about to be conferred upon him. The latter was appointed secretary of the local ambulance classes in I9 0 3, an.d received his medallion in March, 1904. Since hiS appoIntment, Mr. Bottomley had saved three lives and had the pleasure of aS5isting 260 ladies and

AID. - June, 1909.

members of his claSSeS to qualify themselves to render first aid.

In with the collif'ry ambu lance classes, 139 members hold certificates, 70 had secured vouches, 24 had received medallions, and 20 were the possessors of labels. Mr. Bottomley has taken part in 12 competitions with this result ;-Two firsts, two seconds, and five thirds.

During his secretaryship he had attended to over 1,500 cases of accidents, many of which were of a serious kind. No man had done more in that district in connection with ambulance work than Mr. Bottomley.

Mr. Pickering, Chief Government Inspector of Mines, in Yorkshire, in presenting the vellum vote of thanks, said he was honoured to receive an invitation from Colonel Walker to make the presentation to Mr. Bottomley who was the pioneer in colliery ambulance work, and it was most fitting that a workman at Wharncliffe Silkstone should be the first colliery workman to receive such a great honour as the vellum vote of tilanks from the Order of St. John. He heartily congratulated Mr. Bottomley.

Sergt. A. Winborne, of the Tankersley Rescue Station, and Mr. A:lron Haigh, two of the H?_mptead Colliery heroes than gave exhibitions in the use of rescue apparatus for saving life in cases of mining disasters. For the first time since its invention a new and improved stretcher fitted with breathing apparatus was exhibited, which we gave a description of in our last issue, and its mode pf working to those present.

Mr. Jonathan Wrol, colliery manager, said he was proud to be connected with Wharncliffe Silkstone. He was sure that no colliery in the country had mad,; more provision for dealing with accidents. In every part of the collieries, the necessary appliances were provided. He strongly urged upon all connected with the collieries to make and to keep themselves competent to render first aid whenever and wherever required.

Dr. Norton, NIr. H. Cooper, and Mr. J. Rawlin, also spoke in support of ambulance training, and joined in the congratulations to 1\1r. Bottomley.

---._.----

British Fire Prevention Committee.

THE occasion of the tenth aniversary of the incorporation of the above was celebrated on May 24th and 25th. On the former day a series of door tests were carried out at the Testing Station. The doors tested comprised Iron doors and armoured doors. The reports on these will be issued in due course. There was a large attendance of members present at the tests, including most of the Government officials concerned. The foreign visitors who are visiting this country in connection with the aniversary of the Committee were entertained at luncheon.

The aniversary dinner took place at the Gaiety Restaurant and was presided over by Mr. E. O. Sachs F.R.S. Ed., chairman of the Committee, who was supported by the mem bers of the Council and Executive, amongst whom we may mention Sir John Cockburn, K.C M.G.; Sir James Williamson, C B.; Sir Henry Tanner, I.S.O.; Sir James Szlumper, F. R.G.S.; Messrs. Max Clarke, F. k.I.B.A., Ellis Marsland, hon. secretary. There were also present the Earl of Londesborough, K.CV.O.; Sir Thomas Brooke-Hitching; Judge Rentoul; Captain Hamilton, R.N. (London Fire Brigade); Colonel Fox (London Salvage Corps); Major Cooper-Key, Major Crozier, Colonel. Seabroke, Colonel Bagnold, Mr. Sydney Gi'l.mble and Lieut. Sladen (London Fire Brigade), and the following distinguished foreign

June, 19 0 9. -FIRST

officers-Chief Officer Meier (President International Fire Eerv ice Council), Chief Officer Reichel (Berlin Royal Police Fire Brigade), Chief Officer Westphalen (Hamburg Fire Brigade I, and De Marie (Hon. Secretary International Fire Brigade Council).

There was an interesting Toast list, that of "The King" and "The Sovereigns and Presidents of Foreign Statt's" being given from the chair. The toast of the evening, "The British Fire Prevention Committee," was proposed in felicitious terms by the Earl of Londesborough, and ably responded to by Chief Officer Meier in an amirable speech in English, and by Chief Officer Reichel, wbo spoke in German. "The British Fire Service" was given in a racy speech by Judge Rentoul, and responded to by Capt. Hamilton and Col. Seabroke We wish that the space at our disposal would admit of a detailed report of all the excellent speeches which were made on this occasion, but our columns are not elastic so we have been compelled to leave them out. We are, however, going to make one exseption in the case of Capt. Hamilton. The popular Chief Officer of the London Fire Brigade will not, we deprecate, respond to this toast in a like capacity many more times, and his speech, therefore, has somewhat an historical interest to his comrades in the fire service ;-

" It is with pleasure," said the gallant officer, "that I rise to respond to the toast of 'The British Fire Service," so ably proposed by Judge Rentou1. As regards the history of our Service in the early part of the last century, the fire brigades outside of London for. protectio?- of county towns were provided by the mUl1lclpal corporatlOns, supplemented in some instances by the subsidies from the insurance companies. Such was practically the foundation of the British Fire Service.

"In (823, Edinburgh took the lead in the fo:mation of a properly organised fire department for that. cIty. I.n 1830 the fire insurance offices in London com bmed theIr fire-fighting forces into one under the. of the London Fire Engine EstablIshment, appoll1tll1g. James Braidwood, who had organised the Edmburgh FIre Brigade, to be the superintendent. How he carried out the work and what confidence the publIC had in him and his little force are matttrs of history. In 18 54 he presented a protest to Her Government against the erection of the immense In Tooley-street, in one of which in the disastrous fire whIch occurred there in 186 he lost his life. He was succeeded by Eyre Massey Shaw, and on the 1st of January, 1866, the responsibility of protecting London from fire was ?y Act of Parliament, placed in the hands of the Metropolltan Board of Works. The brigade, which was then named politan Fire Brigade, was re-named the hre BrIin 19°4. As was only natural, the evolutlOn London Brigade has been closely foll.o:-ved by the prInCIpal towns and cities throughout tbe Bnl1sh Isles.

"It devolves upon Col. Seabroke to speak for the thousands of public-spirited men who supply the volunteer protection for a larger area than. that. covered by professional brigades. It is a great salisfactlOn to be able to state that tbe relationship existing between the whole of the fire service and the other services with which we into contact are at the present moment of the happiest descri ption.

"Our pleasure to-night has I am sure. been actded to by the presence of such foreIgn and in thankinrr our hosts the Bntlsh Ire PreventlOn Committee for generous hospitality, we them for the opportunity they have given us of our tinguished foreign comrades. I should llke to take thiS

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opportunity of expressing to the whole of the fire service, my thanks for the many acts of kindness I have received during the six years that I have been command of the London Fire Brigade, and I say in all sincerity, that any success I may have attained has been mainly due to the loyal support and hearty co-operation accorded me by my professional and other colleages in the several civilian services. On behalf of the British Fire Service I thank you for the kind ::nanner in which you have received this toast."

Col. Seabroke also responded to the toast.

Following this came the toast of "The Visitors," proposed by Mr. Percy Collins and responded to by Sir

The handsome shield has been made by the Alexander Clarke Co., of London, for the S o uth District of the .F B.U., and will be presented to the BrIgade obtaining the highest of marks in the Distri c t CompetItIOns.

Thomas Brooke-Hitching and the versatile l\Ir. George R. Sims an ardent enthusiast in the ail1ls of the Committee, and who has done much to popularise its me:thods by tbe aid of his pen in the public press.

A large number of congratulatory were received from different parts of world, mclud1l1g one from Monsieur Lepine, the noteel Paris Police Chief, and Prince Alexander Lvoff, who telegraphed in the name of the Russian Fire Service.

The loasts were interspersec1 with a series of lantern and cinematograph views depicting important fires, ruins of fires and results of fire tests, as also the work of the London Fire Brigade.

When corresponding with Advertisers please mention "First Aid."

We are in no way responsible jor the opinions expressed, or the statements made, by CO?-respondents. - EDITORS.

THE PRESE T CAP OF THE ST. JOHN AMBULANCE BRIGADE.

DEAR SI!,--:-Having atte nded the camp of NO.3 District, S.J.A. B., at 1:' elixstowe, I heard t.he opinion exwe should look smarter In caps sImilar to those now beIng Issued. to the.T erritorials, i.e., ill place of the fatigue cap of course, stIll retaInIng the field cap for rough work. If you could find a corner for th is in FIRs:: AID perhaps some vIews would b.e forthcomIng on thIs point. Personally, .r thInk thIs suggestIon w,:mld be for the genera l improvement In appearance of the brIgade, especially when marching in Church parades, etc. - Yours tru Iy, EAST ANGLIAN.

NON-COl\lMISS IO NED OFFICERS' MESS BRISTOL.

DEAR SIR,--I.am desired hy the members of this mess to 'you. a few partIculars of what we believe to be the first of ItS kmd In the S.J .A.B.

We have the deputy-commissioner and six commissioned as hon. members, and have about 30 N.C.O.'s on our loll. We n:eet I!l0nthly, and should anything be mentioned that we t.hInk. likely to benefit the. brigade in general, we send partlculal s of same to the chIef superintendent who we are pleased .to say, has acted on our information than one occasIOn.

the idea all divisions, as it creates a Letter Interest In our work and moreover a b tt a th ffi " ,e er splnt mong eo cers and N.C.O.'s -Your faithfully, SERGT. A. E. LONG.

[A copy of the rules governino- the mess was also enclosed.-ED. " F.A." b

AN EXPLANATION WANTED.

SIR,-:-An explanation of the reasons for the difference the followmg orders is desired: _ m

In Infant.ry Training, Section, 64, paragraph 2. SectlOns-nght form-quick march --forward by the rzglZt.

Section 66 the same.

by 99-" Change direction right-right form- forward Section 114 as Sections 64 and 66.-Yours, truly, " PUZZLED."

Dr. speaking at the conclusion of the sixth annual competitIOn for. the challenge cup and gold medals, held N said he was not satisfied with the work -which lack of study. Ambulance work was a growth, and could only be attained by persistent on the lInes of theory and practice combined Notmg that only three teams competed in each sectio;)' the Doctor remarked that in a large mining centre such Normanton a hundred teams should exist.

AIO.- June, 1909.

Conseil International des Sapeurs= Pompiers.

THE annual business meetings in connection with the a.bove ,were in last month under the preof Officer MeIer, Amsterdam Fire Brigade (President), VIce-Presidents Chief Officer Westphalen Ham burg, and Mr. E. O. Sachs, London, being present.

As a result. of their deliberations, it has been decided and Issue a small technical pocket-dictionary on FIre terms in French and German, similar to. that was publIshed on the occasion of the First AId Congress which dealt with first aid technIcal terms. It was also decided to publish in these three langua.ges the results of a large number of tests In London by the British Fire Prevention wh.ose Testing Station they had an opportunity of durmg their stay in Lonnon. They will also with the matter of obtaining reliable data on uniform hnes as to the result of motor traction in Fire Brigades throughout Europe. A considerable amount of routine work also dealt with. The Council now represents thirteen countries having together over two and a half millIOn firemen.

DU.ring the stay of the visitors in London, the social Side of lIfe was not neglected. They were twice entertained by the Lord Mayor, at the Mansion House, and some of the party were also present at the Guildhall Banquet on May 2L1:th .., were entertained by the British Fire PreventIon .on two occasions, and they were the guests of CaptaIn R.N., also of Mr. E. O. Sachs and Mr. Percy Colhns on Every facility afforde<;i them to see anythIng In London in which they eVInce.d an Their stay in the Metropolis has thus been Instructive and agreeable.

THE

BOARD.

LARCE SHEET "FIRST AID" DIACRAMS

Of the Illustrations in Warwick & Tunstall's'" FIRST AID' TO THE INJURED AND SICK ."

FIRST AID •

The Independent Journal for the Ambulance and Fire Services. Conducted

To Our Readers.

As it is the wish and desire of the Proprietors to make this Journal as instrucLive and entertaining as possible, correspondents in all parts of the country are ask ed to give it all the help they can.

Superintendents of Corps and Officers of Divisions of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, Officers of the Royal Army Medical Corps (Territorials), the Volunteer Ambulance School of Instruction, and Chief Officers of Fire Brigades will, it is hoped, do their best to make it known amongst the members of their respective organisations, and will also send for publication their official news and notices. Suggestions are invited for Prize Competitions and other matters which will advance the interest of the] ournal.

We particularly desire to ask our correspondents to be brief and to the point in any communications they may send us for publication.

Correspondents sending in photos are urgently requested to state on the back of the same the name of the individual or the Corps or Brigade and give also the name and address of the sender.

We beg to advise our readers that we do not pay for photographs or copy sent, unless previously agreed upon in writing.

First Aid" is published on the 20th of the month.

EDITORIAL.

THIS was a question which was addressed

Do to us a short time since, and it is one Competitions which we should unhesitatingly answer

Tend to in the affirmative, believing, as we do, Promote the th':tt it has been mainly due to competiEfficency tive ambulance work that has led to the of the continuous growth of the first aid moveNumber? ment on our railways, in our coal mines and in other industrial centres. In the principality of "Vales who will deny that the presentation of a Challenge Shield by that grand old soldier, Sir Charles Warren, has not been the means of arousing an interest in ambulance work which has been well-nigh phenomenal, or who will assert that the inauguration of the Inter-Railway Competition has not resulted in a higher percentage of efficiency amongst the am bulance men on our different railways? In the ranks of the Brigade, of course, one looks to find a high state of efficiency, as in compliance with Brigade Regulations the men have to pass a c:!rtain standard each year. but will it be seriously asserted that when Sir Thomas Dewar gave the handsome trophy which bears his name, he did not provide an incentive towards higher efficiency. To our mind there can be no two opinions about the benefit it bas been to the cause, both as a means

[Entered at Stationers' Hall.l PRICE TWOPENCE, [2 6 PER ANNUM, POST FREE. for promoting higher efficiency all round, and as an incentive to those who are fresh to the work, to emulate the skill shown by their older comrades.

In th e course of a discussion upon this subject the other day, we were surprised to hear quite a contrary view expressed by a gentleman who has been connected with the movement for many years. He claims to have expert knowledge on the subject, and as a veteran in the cause one must give him credit for the sincerity of his opinions, while differing with him regarding the reliability of them.

First and foremost, our friend took exception to the provision of trophies: regarding it as so much waste of cash, which might have been much more usefully applied to the provision of further ambulance material. Well, this is an argument which at first blush appears to be a fairl y reasonable one, and one that should be difficult to controvert. A little research enables us to answer it effectively, for what do we find? Why, in many cases the presentation of a Challenge Cup or other trophy, and the subsequent competition, has led to an increased subscription list, and the provision of further ambulance material and equipment, by individuals, who might never have realised the value of the ambulance movement but for witnessing the skill of the am bulance man at the competItIOn. A further argument against competitions submitted by our pessimistic friend was that it led to the training of a select few, and the neglect of the remaining members of the class or corps, in the matter of instruction.

Here, again, we think that the opposite is invariably the case, for the am bulance competitor, provided he is not a "pot hunter," will enthusiastically take up the training of his less skieed fellows, and endeavour to bring them up to the same high state of efficiency, as that to which he has attained. As a proof of this, we were informed during the course of some enquiries which we made, of the case of the captain of a very highly trained squad, who, in addition to training two teams in connection with his own class, was also engaged in coaching up teams in two other towns, one of which, to quote his own words, nearly succeeded in " wiping my eye" in the competition, when it took place. This fact alone would, we think, disprove the assertion that competitions lead to th e training of the select few.

-FIRST

Does it not stand to reason that the larger the number of proficient ambulance men which a corps or class may possess to select a team from, the greater is the chance of success. While we trust that there may never be a lack of kind hearted people to see that the equipment of our ambulance corps is always complete and up-to-date, we hope also that there may always be found generous donors, sufficiently interested in the ambulance movement to provide trophies for its encouragement.

Insensibility.

By METACARPUS.

(Continued from page I79.) HYSTERIA.

Symptoms.- This is essentially an emotional complaint, but none the less it is absolutely a true disease. There will be convulsive movements of the trunk and limbs, a. tearing at the ha.ir and clothes, with a feeling of WIt? fits of. laughing and crying. One thmg. you wIll Invanably notIce, should the patient fall, she Will generally manage to do so without injuring herself. I should perhaps have mentioned that emotional females are most subject to this complaint.

Treatment.-At once the dress, and take all steps to prevent. the patient hurting herself, let her have plenty of fresh aIr, spnnkle the face freely with cold water apply smelling salts. to the nostrils. A very good IS to compress the patIent's nostrils, with the hand held over the mouth, until the attempts to breathe become powerful, then, suddenly removing the hand, allow free entry of aIr. You abstain both from any expression of or any display of excessive harshness, at the same tIme be very firm.

ALCOHOLIC POI SO NING OR DRUNKENNESS.

Symptoms.- The face is usually flushed, and there wJlI be a strong odour of alcohol about the breath' the will be thick and incoherent, the surface of the skIn cold and clammy.

Treatment.-In the first place care must be taken not to be led away the of alcohol into assuming it is a case ?f IntOXIcatIOn, thereby overlooking graver condItIOns which may be present, such as a fracture of the skull or other injuries inflicted during a drunken fit. As a general rule the safest plan is perhaps to keep the patient warm, for drunken persons are especially susceptible to the of cold. In urgent cases, however, whe.re the respiratIOn and circulation are embarrassed, more. active. measures must be taken and the stomach emptied of Its contents. If possible, an emetic of mustard and water-a tablespoonful of mustard to half a tumbler of he administered. If the patient should reSIst thiS treatment, medical aid should be at once procured and the stomach thoroughly washed out.

OPIUM POISONING.

Symptoms.- The patient will be in a stupor, from he be roused by shouting at him, but he invanably qUlckly relapses again i?to stupor the skin will be cold and breathIng slow and shallow, the countenance Will be hVId, and the pupils of the eyes fixed

AI D.- July, 1909.

and contracted, being often reduced to the size of pin points.

Tr ea tme?Zt.-At once administer an emetic of either salt (a tablespoonful) or mustard (a .dessertspoonful) in half a tum bier of luke warm water, or eight to ten grains of sulphate of zinc in half a tumbler of lukewarm water. At the same time every effort must be made to prevent the patient from going to. he should be walked up and down, supported on eIther SIde by attendants, at intervals cold water should be dashed on the head and chest and the legs bared and kept continuously flicked with wet towel indeed, no effort must be spared to prevent the patient from relapsing into torpor, for if allowed to go to sleep he may never wake again. As an antidote strong coffee may be administered.

STRANGULATION.

Tr ea tm en t.- The constriction, or compressing band, round the throat must be promptly severed and artificial respiration at once resorted to. In the case of hanging body should be supported wh.ile t.he cord is being cut: In order to prevent the person beIng Injured by falling to the ground

CONCUSSION OF THE BRAIN.

Caused by commotion or shaking of the brain substance by a blow or fall on the head, or by transmission of to the brain, when falling from a height and alightmg heaVIly on the feet there may be no visible or outward sign of injury, but as a result the brain is temporarily paralysed.

Symptoms. -The patient will be motionless and insensible, or will only answer when addressed in a loud tone of voice, speedily relapsing again into unconscious-

The pulse will be feeble, the breathing shallow, pupIls contracted, and the surface of the skin cold and and pale: The pati.ent is, in fact, in a state of collapse, from which he begInS to rally after a certain interval va.rying according to the severity of the shock, from a mInutes to several The circulation is gradually restored, the pulse Improves, and the patient is warmer. On :egaining there will be a tendency to and the. st.raInIng. which aCGo?1panies the retching wIll be benefiCIal In rousIng the functIOns of the brain.

Tr eatment.- If possible at once wrap the patient in blankets, and keep very quiet in bed. Place hot bottles to the feet, sides, in the arm-pits and between the thighs. When. the patient has sufficiently recovered warm tea may be gIven, but on no account administer alcoholic stimulants.

COMPRESSION OF THE BRAIN.

This is caused by injuries to the head, say from a fall or. blow.. Th.e cranium is fractured and a piece of bone beIng dnven lllwards produces pressure on the brain substance, or the broken bone having injured a blood vessel within the cranium, compression may result from the presence of a clot of blood on the brain.

. SymptomJ. - The patient will be in.sensible, the pulse WIll be slow full, the breathing stertorous, pupils unequal, becomIng fixed should the pressure be severe. There will be the evi?ence of a wound of the scalp and the fracture of the cramal bone may be felt. It sometimes haPI?ens in inj.uries to the brain that symptoms of conCUSSion prevaIl at first, succeeded subsequently by symptoms of compression.

Treatment.- The general treatment for compression is much the as that for. apoplexy, place your patient in an easy pOSItIOn for breathIng, loosen all tight clothing and allow plenty of fresh air, apply ice-bags or cold water cloths to the head, which should be slightly raised. The

July, 1909. -FIRST

injury to the scalp may be attended to, but no attempt sh?uld be made to rouse the patient, or to give him anythmg. by the. mouth. conveyed to home or hospital, pendIng medical attentIOn, the pati e nt should be k e pt absolutely quiet.

SUN STROKE

This is a disease which is closely allied to apoplexy, and may result from exposure to the direct heat of the sun, or to heat from other sources, such as the stoke holes of ships, stokers being particularly liable to this form of seizure. the worst cases, occurring in the tropics, death may be 1nstantaneous.

A less severe form is known as "heat-stroke" and may come on some time after the exposure, while the patient is in the or even at night. It is generally preceded by premonItory symptoms, such as giddiness headache, nausea, tightness across chest, restlessness and tormenting thirst and. feverish symptoms. Insensibility creeps on gradually, WIth laboured breathing, the fac e is conges.ted and the pulse quick and bounding with stertorous breathIng, and there may be convulsions.

Treatment.-:Loosen all tight clothing, and having removed the patient to a cool and shady place, apply icebags, or cold water cloths to the head and chest. If it is possible to strip the patient he may be wrappp.d in sheets wrung out in cold water, the sheets being changed and redipped, or a continous stream of cold water may be poured over him. If the breathing should cease artificial respiration must at once be resorted to, and the surface of the body vigorously rubbed. Stimulants should never be given except as a last resource.

URAEMIA.

This is a form of insensibility induced by the action on the brain of 3. poison called u rea. In ordinary health this poison is removed from the blood by means of the kidneys. When, however, the kidneys are disabled by disease from performing their functions the poison is retained, and deposited by the circulation in various organs.

Symptoms.- The patient lies in an insensible condition, and is seized with successive attacks of convulsions. Insensibility is invariably preceded for some time by muscular twitchings, impaired vision, excessive sleepiness, headache and diarrh ce a.

Tr eatmen t.-Ice should be applied to the head, and mustard and linseed poultices applied to loins.

[We trust that the subject of Insensibility, which has been somewhat more fully dealt with than is usual in th e first aid text books, will have proved of some little interest to readers of FIRST Am, if so I shall have much pleasure at some future time in presenting a further series."METACARPUS "].

On the occasion of his visit to Somersetshire H.R.H. the Prince of Wales, in his capacity as Grand Prior of the Order of St. John, personally decorated Herbert Atwood, William Gould and John Sims, for conspicuous bravery exhibited at the colliery disaster which occurred at Norton Hill Pit in April last year. His Royal Highness also presented Dr. Worger with the badge of an Honorary Associate of the Order, and to Mr. S. Lloyd Harvey the illuminated vote of thanks for distinguished services rendered to the Order in furtherance of its ambulance work. Both these gentlemen have been enthusiastic workers in the cause and have unselfishly devoted much time to the extension of the work, and they thoroughly deserved the great honour which was conferred upon them in receiving these awards at the hand of the Grand Prior.

No. I District (Metropolitan Corps.)

The annual inspection of the Metropolitan Corps was held on June 26th, In Hyde Park, and was ca rried out in a rem::.l.rkably successful manner. The Insp ec ting Officer was Inspector-General Belgrave Ninnis, M.D., R. , and there. was total parade of all ranks of 8 So, including 3 N ursmg SIsters.

After the inspection, the Corps gave a combined display.of first aid and ambulance work which reflected great credIt upon the members, and evoked the highest praise fr?m the Chief Commissioner. A prominent feature of the display was the rescue of persons apparently injured in a mining disaster. A huge structure was erected to represent the shaft in which an explosion occurred, followed by clouds of dense smoke. A body of rescuers were quickly at work and proceeded to bring to the surface those supto be injured. This was accomplished by means of slmgs and the "Lowmoor" jacket. Artificial respiration and the administration of oxygen was then resorted to and the whole of the patients transported to hospital tents erected on the ground. The programme terminated with the march-past of the whole battalion; this was carried out with a precision highly creditable to all concerned. Among those present were Sir James Clark, M.D., Commissioner of the Brigade, District Chief Surgeon James Cantlie, Colonel Lees Hall, Deputy-Commissioner of the District Sir Herbert C. Perrott, Bart., c.B., and Lady Perrott, Sir Edward Thackeray, V.c., Sir John Furleyand many members of the Order. The battalion was under the command of Mr. W. H. Morgan, Assistant Commissioner for special services.

BROMLEY.-This Division paraded at Bromley North Station on Saturday, June 19th, and headed by the Bromley Borough Prize Silver Band, marched to the Hom e Meadow, Oakley Farm, Bromley Common, which had been kindly placed at the disposal of the Officers by Mr. A. C. Norman, J.P. Here a capital drill was gone through under Supt. The first aid treatment of the several presumed cases which were dealt with was exceptionally good, and the operators were frequ ently complimented by Hon. Surgeon Yolland who critically examined the work before the various cases were conveyed to the collecting station which had been fixed at the opposite side of the meadow. The transport of the patients was to a great extent carried out by the means of the ambulance wagon, which had been kindly placed at the disposal of the Division by the Bromley Board of Guardians. Hearty congratulati0ns must be accorded to Supt. Healey on the very excellent arrangements which he had made, and which contributed in no small measure to the success of the demonstration. Among those present were Mr. Norman, the Rev. J. W. Swabey, and l\Irs. Swabey, Mrs. Yolland, Mr., Mrs., and Miss Harris, Mr. and Mrs. Moate, Mr. Eric Yolland, &c.

At the conclusion of the march-past) the men were

4

-FIRST

drawn up and Mr. Norman addressed a few w?:ds to them appreciative of the value of the \vork 111 they were engaged. H ea ded by the band the DIvlSlon then marched to the St. Luke's Institute, where, by the kindness of 1\1rs. Yolland, who always so ably seconds the efforts of her husband on behalf of the ambulance cause, tea had bee!') prepared. After tea, to which, to use a "hackneyed phrase," ample justice was done, Mrs. Yolland and the several lady friends who had so kindly assisted her were accorded hearty votes of thanks.

In reply Hon. Surgeon Yolland thanked the members for their attendance, and expressed the hope that they would muster in full force on Sunday, July 1 rth, for Church parade, at the Parish Church.

G.W.R. (No. 37) DIVI SlON - The sixth annual concert in connection with the above division was held at the Ladbrooke Hall, on June 24th. There was a large audience, amongst whom we noticed the Deputy-Commissioner (Col. Lees Hall), Hon. Surgeon J. M. Carvell and Mrs. Carvell, Supt. \Y. H. Maunder, Lady Supt. Miss Blye Bourke, Ist Nursing Officer Miss E. Bourke, and rst Officer Evans.

An excellent programme had been arranged, the artistes being Miss Hida Douste, Miss Wena Pickering, and Messrs. George Moir, Arthur Wolfe, Leonard Sickert, Harry Lack and Walter G. Britton. The G.W. and Paddington Boro' Band also rendered several selections during the evening.

A short sketch entitled "A Gun Accident in the Field" was given by 1st Officer Evans, assisted by Private Gaffney, after which the Deputy Commissioner presented a

AI D.- July, 19°9.

The examiner in the practical work was Dr. Carvell and for the questions Dr. Somervilh Hastings. Each competitor for the Shield had 10 questions to answer, and each competitor for the "Grant" Medal 6 question, so that the examination was of a very thorough and practical nature. Below are the results of both competitions :-

" William Heywood" Challenge Shield.-r, Midland Railway, 286} ; 2, L. & N. W. R., 2 7I 1; 3, King's HaJJ, Individual for" Grant" Medal.-I, Mr. G. A. Burgess, 90; 2, Mr. D. Davey, 6 Mr. R. C. Sutton, 49.

After the competitions were Mr. G. A. Burgess, of the G.W.R, and winner of the" Grant" Medal, gave a very good display of first aid work with impruvised material.

It is prohable that next year the competition will be thrown open to a ten mile radius. The competition will probably take place at the Regent-street Polytechnic in the month of June, and will be open to all holders of first aid certificates granted by the St. John Ambulance Association or the L.c.e.

Further particulars can be had from W. Heywood, ro, Chambers-lane, Willesden Green, or 8 r, Davies-street, W.

NO.2 District.

SOUTHAMPTON.- The Ambulance Division had the honour of being inspected by the Chief Commissioner (Inspector General Belgrave innis, R.N., M.D.) on June 15th, and as a result of his address to the members two sergeants, three corporals, and eleven privates have joined the Military Home Hospitals Reserve. The competition for the Silver Rose Bowl Trophy, presented to the Southampton Centre by Lieut.-Col. Twif;'s, took plaCe on June 30th, Drs. Ewart (Chichester) and Applebe (Winchester) being the judges. This competition, which is open to the Nursing Divisions in Hants and the Isle of Wight, is in first aid only, and is carried out on similar lines to the " Dewar," save that the making of a bed and the placing the patient thereon is substituted for the stretcher drill. A team consisting of five nursing sisters, and the winning team will hold the trophy for twelve months. The competitions will be held at Southampton annually.

July, 190 9. -FIRST

unveiling of the tablet on Tuesday, June 22nd, several interesting speeches were made.

No. 5 District.

WELBECK.-A united church parade was held at Welbeck Abbey, on Sunday, June 22nd. The following Divisions took part :- Worksop, under Second Officer, Casson; Wei beck, under SUiJt. Hamlyn, and Cresswell, under Hon. Surgeun Wood. Mustering at the Welbeck Depot, and headed by the Worksop Bugle Band, they marched to the beautiful Chapel attached to the Abbey. Here had assembled a large congregation, and a most impressive service followed. An eloquent sermon was preached by the Rev. e. B. Raikes, chaplin to his Grace the Duke of Portland, who selected for his text the r 3th verse of the Epistle of St. John iii. (being the Espistle of day). At the conclusion of Divine Service the men marched back to the Welbeck Headquarters, where, before being

AI D.- 5

Hudscn made a brief speech eulogistic of ambulance work, after which the Mayor on behalf of the division, presented Sergt. Comrie with a ha ndsome pipe, and in doing so referred to the recipient's devoted work on behalf of the am bulance cause. Sergt. Comrie having replied, Supt. Child said that on behalf of the division he had hoped to have been able to present their honorary instructor (Dr. Wordsworth) with a present, but the article had not arrived, in would, however, be forthcoming shortly. In conclusion, Supt. Child expressed the wish that the doctor might remain with them for many years. Dr. Wordsworth, in thanking the members for their gift, said he had been amply repaid for the time he had given to the work by the interest the pupils had taken. He strongly urged them to keep up their studies; they must remember that in one year they could not learn sujjcient. Just as the doctor was leaning all his life, so the ambulance man had to keep on practising, if he wished to keep his knowledge up-to-date. There were several other speakers, one and all expressing

"WILLIAM

large number of labels to members of the division and in doing so .referred to the high position to which division ha? attaIned, and the good work which was constantly beIng performed by its mem bers.

. A very pleasant evening was brought to a close by the sIngmg of the National Anthem.

Mr. Chapman, A. R. C. M. again kindly officia.ted the plano, and the whole arrangements in connection with the concert were made and carried out by the Hon. Concert Secretary 1st Officer Evans.

The annual ambulance competition for the "William Heywood" Challenge Shield and the" Grant" Medal took place at the Cocoa Tree Grounds, Pinner, on July 1St. work of the teams was very interesting and instructIve,

Three squads only competed on this occasion, viz.Portsmouth, Southampton and Lymington, and after a spirited contest Portsmouth were declared the winners with 288 marks out of a possible 300, Southampton securing second place with 278 marks. While congratulating Portsmouth on the victory, a special mede of praise must be awarded to the Southampton division, which has not long been formed, and to have come within r 0 points of a crack team like that of Portsmouth is most creditable. Souvenir spoons bearing the arms of Southampton and the device of the S.J.A.A. were awarded to the members of the first and second teams.

No. 3 District.

N ORTHAMPTON.-A tablet to the memory of the members of this corps who did duty in South Africa during the Boer War, has just been placed in the headquarters of the Corps, in King Street. It bears the following inscription :-" This tablet was erected in recognition of the non-commissioned officers and men of the Northampton Corps who volunteered for active service in the South African War, 1899-02." Then follows the names of thirty-two members of the Corps, many of whom it is pleasing to pote are still members of it, At the

dismissed, they were briefly addressed by Supt. Hamlyn, who stated that although that was their first united Church Parade, he hoped it would not be their last. The visiting Divisions were afterwards supplied with light refreshments.

MANSFIELD.-The annual dinner and distribution of certificates in connection with this division was held at the Nag's Head Hotel on July 2nd, under the presidency of His Worship the Mayor (Ald. T. Taylor, J.P.), who made a most genial chairman.

At the conclusion of the dinner, whIch was served In excellent style, the Chairman gave the loyal toast, which was duly honoured. .'

Prior to mak ing the presen tation of certl ficates, the Mayor expressed his ple.isure at seeing so many present taking an interest in the work of the brigade. It was ",:,ell worth encouragement as it was often the of savIng life, and it could have no higher recommendatIOn than that. The certificates, etc., having been presented, the Rev.

their appreciation of the good work which .the .ambulance division was doin g, and during the evenIng It was J nounced that Mr. Cowling, the popular host of the Nag.s Head, had promised a Challenge Cup for con:petItion. During the evening several mUSical Items Interspersed the speeches.

The Division was inspected on July 4th on the lawn at West Hill Drive. There was a good muster under command of 1st Officer Nicholson. The InspectIng Officer was Hon. Surgeon A. J. Helm who witnessing the men go through the dnll and first aid exercises, expressed hIS entire satIsfactIOn at the ,vay in which th e various had been performed. In conclusion Dr. :Montague Impressed on the mem bers how necessary it was that they should work to maintain a high standard of efficiency.

No. 6 District.

HULL.-The annual competitions in connection with

HEYWOOD" CHATJLANGE SHIELD.

1'/LOtO by

[IT 'orU's G"aj/Lie Press, Ltd. No. DISTRICT (METROPOLITAN CORPS) ANNUAL INSPECTIO I IN HY DE PARK, JUNE 26TH. INSPECTION BY INSPKCTOR -G ENERAL BEL GRAVE NIN NIS, R.N.

-FIRST

No.6 District took place here on Saturday, J uly rd, in the Municipal Technical Schools, and aroused great lo cal interest. The principal event was the competition for handsome Silver Shield, open to all holders of first aId certificates in Northumberland, Durham, and the North and East Ridings of Yorkshire, and bOlla fide members of Centre, Works, Yard, Colliery, Community or Organization. The Bronze Shield and District Staff Cups, open only to the Corps and Divisions of the S.JA.B. located in the No.6 District, and also the Deputy Commissioner's Cup.

For the Nursing Divisions the following competitions were also held :-The "Ritchie» Challenge Bowl and the "Atkinson» Cup.

The following teams entered for the various contests: Hylyon Colliery Division, Gateshead Fell Division, Hull and Barnsley Railway, Alexandra Dock Division, (Hull Corps) Gateshead Fell (Ravens worth team), and Hetton Ie Hole Division entered only for the Bronze Shield and District Staff Cups, whilst Hull and Barnsley Railway, Neptune-street Division No. team (Hull Corps) entered only for the Deputy Commissioner's Cup. The judges for the several were Colonel H. G. Falkner, Surgeon Capt A. \,y. Scott, Dr. Miller, Hon. Surgeon Ash, and Hon. Surgeon McWillie.

Amongst those present were Assistant Commissioner

C. B. Palmer (in charge of No.6 District), District Chief Supt. A. H. Johnson, District Supt. Secretary J O. Vaughan, and many of the local officers The tests arranged for the various contests were on the usual lines and included viva voce exam. and practical work.

A large audience assembled to witness the presentation of pri zes and trophies by Mrs. Dumoulin. The results came as a surprise to the visiting teams, for the Hull and Barnsley Railway team, from the Alexandra Dock Division, had carried off all the trophies for which they entered, viz., silver challenge shield, bronze challenge shield, Deputy Commissioner's Cup and the District Staff Cups. Medals were also awarded to the winning team. The "Ritchie» Bowl was awarded the Felling Nursing Division, and the "Atkinson" Cup was taken by the No. Squad, from the Hull Corps, Nursing Division.

Addressing the audience, after the presentation, the Assistant Commissioner said he personally felt that the men who had journeyed from the North were pretty well wiped out. The Hull and Barnsley men had practically swept the board and won everything. He felt sure the best team had won, and he sincerely congratulated the Alexandra Dock Division for their excellent work. He had thought that the Hull men would have had strong competitors in the men from Durham, but in spite of this they had come out on top. Although defeated, said the Assistant Commissioner, the visitors wouln carry back with them pleasant memories of the splendid Yorkshire welcome they had received.

the Assistant Commissioner inspected several DlVlslOns of the Hull Corps at the Rifle Barracks Londesborough-street, and his entire at the smart appearance of the men.

On the following morning (Sunday) the Assistant Commissioner inspected the Alexandra Dock, Neptunestreet, and Springhead Divisions (H. & B.R.), Hull Corps, and the Pier iJivision (G.c. R.), Hull Corps, at the headquarters of the Neptune -street Division. There were about 104 men on parade, and after a close inspection of the ranks, and witnessing som e of the various ambulance drills, the mem be rs were drawn up and addressed by the Inspecting Officer in complimentary terms. Mr. Palmer spoke very strongly on the need which existed for further ambul-

AI D.- July, 1909.

ance wagons, and expressed the hope that the Corporation would take the matter in hand

In the afternoon a realistic demonstration was given by the three divisions connected with the Hull and Barnsley Railway at Little Weighton. A railway accident was presumed to have occurred at this point, and a large number of " injured persons» were posted about the spot, each unfortunate bearing a label stating the supposed injury.

The special conveying the ambulance men left Cannonstreet at 3.22 p. m., arriving at the scene of the supposed disaster at 3.36 p.m. Hardly had the train slowed down before the whistle sounded, and the men sprang out of the train and got to work.

The wounded had been placed in all sorts of apparently awkward places. In some instances they were lodged under trucks between the metals, and this necessitated the removal of the wagons before they could be extricated. Instructions had been given for the patient to be treated according to a card pinned to the clothing. Stretchers, splints and bandages were speedily procured from the train, and in a very short time the band of ready helpers were fully engaged.

One of the injured was assumed to be a lady passenger, and was dressed accordingly. She was apparently suffering from a fractured leg, and the ambulance men wrapped her dress tightly round her legs, to serve as padding, and then bandaging the two limbs together it acted as an additional support in lieu of splints.

The assembled crowd of interesting sightseers passed many a comment upon the serious condition of one of the patients, who bore the following card :--:-" This patient has had his wrist nearly amputated by belOg run over by a train, the only part of unbroken skin being at the back of his wrist. He has also fallen on his face, and cut his right cheek about one inch in the front of the right ear. This wound is full of sand and blood is flowing from it. Treat and remove as directed."

It should be noted that the ambulance men did not rely solely on the regulation stores, several cases were treated with improvised material, and very ingenious much of it was.

After about twenty minutes work the ambulance men finished their task, and with all speed the patients were placed in an ordinary goods van, fitted up according to Zavodovski's method, as laid down in the manual of the R.A.M.C., the necessary apparatus being supplied by Mr. C. B. Palmer.

The train departed from Little Weighton at 4.I2, arriving at Hull at 4.35, were on arrival the various patients were removed to the station where Mr. C. B. Palmer, accompanied by several medical men carefully inspected the various cases and expressed entire satisfaction at the way the majority had been treated. Among the large number witnessing the demonstration were several of the prominent officials of the Railway, the principal officers of the Hull Corps, and a number of medical men.

The examination of the various cases being concluded, the Assistant Commissioner addressed the men upon the way the work had been carried out. He considered the demonstation an instructive example of practical ambulance work, which had been performed in a most efficient manner. This was mainly due to the very excellent arrangements made by Mr. John Larder and Inspector Williams. He felt sure that should a railway accident unfortunately occur on the Hull and Barnsley Railway the injured would receive the same careful treatment as the supposed injured had received that afternoon. With the exception of one or two minor mistakes, which would not have

July, 1909· -FIRST

proved detrimental to the patients, the work was excellent. District Chief Surgeon Johnston also spoke in appreciative terms of the treatment. Other speakers included ex-Chief Supt. Hopper. The relief train with the ambulance men was in charge of Inspector Williams.

NO.7 District.

RHYMNEY.-The members of this division having received an invitation to attend the sports held in connection with the Church, on June 28th, headed by the Town Band, and in charge of Sergt. W. H. Gower, they mustered on the lawn at 5 p.m. and marched from thence to the church and back.

Subsequently a display was given, three squads being set to work to treat a supposed case of a compound fracture of the femur and a scalp wound. The patients were afterwards inspected by Hon. Surgeon R. de Acton Redwood, M.R.C.S., who instructed the several squads to march with their patients round the lawn, afterwards directing two squads to treat the following cases, a compound fracture of the femur, and a case of broken back.

AI D.- 7

Coming Events.

Particulars ojfo r th coming ev ents will be i11 s erted in this colUlIl11 free oj cltarge , if receiv ed not later than tht I4th of ea ch month

Brierfield.- - The annual competition for the "Tunstill " Memorial Challenge Shield will be held on Sept. 18. Particulars can be obtained from Sergt. A. G. Smith, Quaker'S Bridge, Brierfield. A nursing competition for the "Veevers" Rose Bowl will be held on the same date. Particulars from Miss E. J. Bolton, 19, Halifax-road, Brierfield.

Cleckh ea t o1Z.- The third annual ambulance competition for the" Cleckheaton" Challenge Shield and valuable prizes will be held on July 31st, open to all ambulance teams. Particulars from Mr. A. Dickinson, Whitechapel-road, Cleckheaton.

Elland. - The annual ambulance and fire brigade competition will be held at the Recreation Ground on July 24th. Silver shields and valuable pri zes are to be competed for. Particulars and entry forms from Mr. A. Tate, 8, James-street, Elland_

R a ventlwrpe.-The fifth annual competition for the Silver Challen g e Cup and other valuable pri zes will be held on September 11th, open to all corps and divisions; also competition for Associat ion teams. Entry forms may be had on

P /,oto by 1 [ World's GI-ap1dc Press, Ltd, FIRST Am DEMONSTRATION BY THE NURSING SISTERS OF THE METROPOLITAN NURSING CORPS.

The three squads engaged were in charge of Hon. Secretary Jenkins, CorpI. R. Meredith, and CorpI. W. J. Durham.

Fortunately there were no actual cases requiring attention either in the streets or at the sports, so that advantage was taken of the occasion to spend a pleasant and instructive afternoon. General regret was expressed at the absence of Ist Officer Philpott, who was unable to be present.

Warm praise was accorded to the dIvISlOn for the way in which the several cases were attended to, and the members were congratulated upon the progress they bad made since their enrolment, which was only in February last.

When corresponding with Advertisers please mention "First Aid."

applicat ion to the secretary, Mr. \"1. Ledgard, Alma House, Ravensthorpe-road, Thornhill. near Dewsbury. _ Rlzo ndda Va lley .- The annual ambulance .competItlOn the" General Sir Charles \Varren " trophy, pnzes and certificates will take pl ace on July 24th at ardy, Rhondda, H.R.H. Prin cess_ Louise and HIS the Duke of Argyll will present the pn zes. Mr. T. DaVIS, Gen. Sec., Ton Pentre, Glamorg an. Slzoebul'yn ess. - The competitions of the Eastern N.F.B.U., will be held here on Aug. ]8th. Hon. Sec ., Chief Officer J. Woollard, Central Fire Station, Ilford. ---.---.

Our heartiest congratulations to Lieut.-Col. Twiss, the energetic and popular local honorary secretary of the Southampton Centre of the S.JA.A, who has just been elected an honorary mem ber of the First Legion of the American National Red Cross. Col. Twiss. has also nominated a member of the Central Executive CommIttee of the St. John Ambulance Association.

-FIRST Brevities.

SPEAKING at Southampton recently on the occasion of the half-yearly meeting of the S.J.A. A. for the presentation of certificates, Col. Twiss, the local honorary secretary, said, "In some parts of the country special classes had been organised for the ladies who had relatives in His Majesty's Territorial Forces. It was not necessary for him to dilate on the many reasons which would move those ladies to qualify to assist their kith and kin in the hour of need. He did not think, however, that special classes would be required in that centre, as he would undertake to make it his business to ensure that everyone seeking to qualify in any of the branches taught by the Association should not seek in vain for the necessary opportunity."

* * *

THE Glasgozv Daily Herald says :-The Army Council are seriously considering the inclusion of the various voluntary aid organisations in the defence scheme. These organisations are the St. John Ambulance Association, the St. Andrew's Ambulance Association, and the local branches of the Red Cross Society. There is a strong necessity for more help, as the scheme which is being prepared by the medical authority at the War Office for the care of the sick and wounded in war is still incomplete in some of its branches. For instance, there is no organisation connecting the field ambulance with the railway lines there are no establishments prepared or completed for temporary hospitals or rest stations on the lines of communication, and no personnel for the expansion uf field hospitals. The .work of the individuals who would form the personnel reqUlred to carry out these necessary duties is so varied in character that it can be undertaken by all classes of the community, and by both men and women. The duties of the male member would be those of stretcher-bearers , nurses, and clerk.s, while some would serve as sanitary and m the conversion of local buildings into for the slightly wounded near the area of operaThe. female members would be employed in cookmg, m nursmg cases in the absence of trained nurses, in the care of severe cases when in the course of removal to hospital, and in various other duties of a similar nature. three organisations named have the power and the desire to supply these national wants. The obstacles in the way are but slight, and therefore the completion of an effective voluntary aid organisation should shortly be effected.

COL. !RIMBLE, e.M.G., recently called public attention to a Side of the ambulance corps movement which is often ov:rlooked. Alluding to the fact that the corps did not Government grant like the Territorial Forces, he.sald they had often a jolly hard uphill fight. This is qUIte true, says the Oldham Chronzde The members of the corps are as deserving of public honour now for the

Al D.- July, 1909.

hours they put in at training as they were when, during the South African War, the value of their assiduous work was apparent, and they were called on to help the sick and the wounded. They went out to the front or to the hospital camp, lauded by heads of municipalities and cheered by their fellow-townsmen. They could not have relieved the heavy strain on the Army Medical Corps if they had not prepared themselves for war in time of peace, as the Crompton Ambulance Corps and many other similar bodies are still doing. That alone is a valuable public service but it is only part, one rarely called for, of their usefulness. A properly trained ambulance man or nursing sister is the person most welcome when accidents happen, as happen they do every day, and a doctor is not to be got at once. They have the knowledge of the simple things which are worth so much at first, and they have more coolness in such an emergency that an untrained man or woman. All credit to them, for, as Col. Trimble said, they get nothing for what they do, and do it simply for the love of the work.

Business Items.

ALTON.-Additions are shortly to be made to the Cottage including the erection of a new ope ratin g theatre, which IS to be added to the main building.

BRISLINGTON.-The Somerset e.e. have sanctioned the borrowir:& by the Brislington P.e. of the sum of £390 for the prOVISion of a new fire station.

BURNOPFIELD.-A new ambulance house is to be built and a van obtained at a total estimated cost of £300.

ECCLES.-The Watch Committee have accepted the tender of J. Grayson, at £76 13s., for the erection of a hose-drymg tower at the fire station.

D.D.e. have decided to proceed With a scheme for bUlldmg an up-to-date fire station.

HASLINGDEN.-A new drill hall is to be erected at Haslingden for the local Ambulance Corps at an estimated cost of ;£ 900.

RAINHAM.-The P.c. have accepted the tender of Mr. G. Gilbert at £ 12 lOS. for the repair of the fire station.

SmcuF.--:-The L.G.B. hel9 an enquiry on July r2th mto applIcatIOn of the CouncIl for sanction of loans to purchase of property in Pound-place as a site for Council offices, fire station and store yard.

THE POLICE MEDAL.-The interest taken by the 10 all classes of his subjects, has been further emphaSIsed by the establishmen t of a medal to be called the K.ing's Police Medal, to be awarded fo'r courage and devotion to duty on the pa.rt of serving in the and Fi r e throughout His Majesty s domllllOns. The medal, It should be mentioned is one of honour f?r special merit, and will not be for prolonged service alone but only when that service is specially distinguished by courage or devotion to duty.

July, 1909· -FIRST Our Portrait Gallery.

VISCOUNTESS ESHER, LADY OF GRACE OF THE OHDE R OF HO SPITAL OF ST. JOHN OF JERUSALEM IN ENGLAND.

WE have much pleasure in presenting our readers this month with a portrait of Viscountess Esher, a lady who

A I D.- 9

brigade as the method of attaining this end; at any we are qUite. sure that the gracious lady who is devotIng so much tIme and attention to the formation of th ese. classes, has no wish to do anything which would even III the smallest degree act detrimentally to the interests of the Brigades' Nursing DiviSion. Her sole aim is that the women who may attend these classes will, with the they have acquired, be capable of rendering first aId to the wounded, and perhaps in their own homes.

It will be seen that the idea is very similar to that which is adoped in connection with Red Cross work in other countri es more especially in Japan, where the women of every household have some instruction in first aid principles. We wish Lady Esher every success in her mission, for any scheme for spreading the principles of ambulance instruction will always have our warmest support.

Lady Esher has other hobbies, the principal, perhaps, being her love of the antique. In her London house in Tilney-street, and at Orchard L ea, Windsor Forest, may be seen som e of the finest examples of old furniture be met with in this country. Highly cultured, and With a taste for music and literature, she is a devotee of the opera, and she is the authoress of a charming book of verse entitled" Dreams."

We cannot better conclude this brief biography than by expressing the wish, whi ch we are sure will be endorsed by all our readers, that her ladyship will continue for many years to take an interest in the ambulance cause, as we are sure that her personal and active participation in the movement will do much to popularise it among women of all classes. She h as a charming personality, and as becomes th e daughter of a famous diplomatist she inspires confidence; that is the sure road to earning the esteem and regard of all classes with whom she may come in contact.

ROYAL NAVAL AUXILIARY SI CK BERTH RESERVE--

has done and is doing so much to popularise first aid work among the female relatives of the members of our Territorial force.

Lady Esher, who was married to Viscount Esher in 18 79, and is a daughter of His Excellency Sylvain Van der Weyer, Belgian Minister at th e Court of St. James, is a Lady of Grace of the Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem in England, in th e ambulance department of which she has for some t11ne past taken a great and growing interest, as is evidenced by the whole-hearted way in which she has worked for th e promotion of first aid classes amongst the members of her own sex. Her ladyship is desirous that women who join the classes which she organises should feel that, by taking up the study and making themselv e s efficient in first aid work in time of peace, they may be of the greatest possible assistance to the authorities, should this country ever unfortunately be engaged in a war which might severely tax the resources of the Army Medical Department.

It has been assumed by some of the nursing sisters of the 8t. J ahn Ambulance Brigade that this movement is calculated to adversely effect the nursing divisions of the brigade, but we are assured that the contrary is case, as it is much more likely that the women attendlllg these classes with a view to making themselves thoroughly efficienl for any emergency, will join a nursing division of the

On June 27th, at the Vaughan Working Men's Club, Staff Surgeon A. e. Bean, R.N., inspected the members of the Leicester Corps, S.J.A.B., who have volunteered for service in the above Reserve. After a keen and s earch ing examination in the principles of first aid and stretcher drill, the inspecting officer expressed his entire satisfaction with the work he h a d seen. Chief Supt. King was in charge of the parade.

The British" blue-jac ket" has been well dubbed the "handy man, " for there are few emergencies where he does not prove himself ready and resourceful. A notable example of this was shown at Grimsby last month, where a flotilla of torpedo boats and submarines where in dock. A man at work in the docks was run over on the railway, near the Alexandra Dock. He was shockin g ly injured, his right arm being cut off and one of his legs broken, whilst he was also suffering from minor lacerations and bruises. Prompt first aid was rendered by two seamen from one of the torpedo boats. Having ascertained the extent of the man's injuri es, they carefully bound them up as well as was possible, and then, taking a d.Jor from off its hinges, they used it as a stretcher and conveyed the man to hospital. Although in a serious condition still, it is hoped, that, thanks mainly to the prompt a?d skilled attention given to him by the sailors, the man wIll recover.

SOUTH-EASTERN AND CHATHAM RAILWAY.-A very pleasant gathering took place at the Bridge Hotel, Strood, on Wednesday, June 16th, in connection with the New Brompton, Chatham and Rocheste: Classes. The proceedings took the form of a concert and were presided over by Mr. E. W. ":'1I11s, the Mayor of Chatham, who, in presentmg the vanous awards gained by the mem bers .of the .Classes at the recent examinations, saId that thIS first aId work was one of the most laudable things that a man could take up, and he was delighted to know that the railway men in that district had made themselves so proficient in the art.

On July 3rd the annual sports of the South-Eastern and Chatham Railway Athletic Association were held at Catford. One of the items on the lengthy programme of events was a first aid competition for the silver cup offered by Mr. J. E. Nichols, the Company's Cashier, and vario.us other prizes. Newington Team secured the premIer position, with the Bricklayers A.rms. Loco' Team sec.ond. Other competing teams were VIctona, Sevenoaks, HIther Green United, Audit Accountant's Office and Battersea Works.

On the same day the Mayor of Lydd distributed the certificates to the mem bers of the Lydd Class, a demonstation of first aid work preceding the event, and a "smoker" following it.

It is interesting to note from tr.e Annual Report of the Central Executive Committee of ttle Association just issued, that this Railway can boast of more label holders than any other Centre of the S.J.A.A.

The Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem in England.

THE annual presentation of medals and diplomas for saving life on land, granted by the Order during the past year, and the medals for service in the St. John Am bulance Brigade, took place at Marlborough House on July 9th, It will be remembered that three silver medals awarded for acts of gallantry in connection with the disaster at Norton Hill Colliery, were presented by H.R.H. the Prince of Wales during his recent visit to Somerset.

On this occasion thirteen bronze medals and six certificates of honour were presented by his Royal Highness who was supported by the principal officers and leading members of the Council of the Order. In making the presentation His Royal Highness shook hands with the several recipients, for most of whom he had a kindly word of commendation.

The following is a list of the recipients of the Bronze Medal :-Alfred Hunt, Thomas Burtenshaw Bridger, Francis Ward, James Atkinson, Charles Henry Firth Bernard, Joseph Herbert Perrin, John Major, William Sheppard, William Cooper, and Alfred Edward Weaver.

AID. - July, 1909.

The following received Certificates of Honour :-Geo. Long, Thomas Mould, Herbert, Brown, James Weeks, and George Bailey.

The Service Medal awarded fur distinguished services to the Order and its departments was also presented to the following members of the S.J.A.B.

Assistant Commissioner Major Caspar R. Laurie, M.ReS., RA.M.e(T.), NO.2 District.

District Supt. of Stores Eugene Edward Street, No.2 District.

Hon. Surgeon and Supt. Charles D'Jdley Garrett, M.R.eS., L.RC.P., Faversham Division.

Hon. Surgeon William Ivens Watson, M.B., Wellingborough Corps.

Supt. Secretary Stephen Herbert Vilven, Metropolitan Corps.

Supt. Alan Paull, Metropolitan Corps.

Supt. Stephen James Silverwood Hindle, Read Division.

Supt. George Green, Market Harborough Division.

Supt. George Thomas Cooper, Metropolitan Corps.

Supt. Edwin Salt, Reading Division.

Supt. Joseph Thomas Hardman, Heywood Division.

Lady Supt. Mrs. Alan Paull, Metropolitan Corps.

Lady Supt. Mrs. Cotton, Ramsgate Corps.

Lady Supt. (late) Miss M. C. Coulcher, Ipswich Corps.

Lady Supt. Miss M. A. Stevens, Burnley Corps.

Lady Supt. Mrs. Edward Colegrave, Metropolitan Corps.

Lady Supt. Mrs. Taylor, Colne Nursing Division.

Lady Supt. Miss M. E. Fletcher, Accrington Corps.

First Ambulance Officer, Hon. Secretary, and Treasurer Harry Gordon States, Chichester Division.

First Am bulance Officer and Hon. Secretary Edward Amos Stott, Whitworth Division.

First Ambulance Officer James Thomas Ashworth, Heywood Division.

First Ambulance Officer Henry Edward Hankm, Metropolitan Corps.

First Ambulance Officer John Albert Sidney Coleman, Metropolitan Corps.

Second Ambulance Officer James Dyson Howarth, Rochdale Corps.

Second Ambulance Officer Percy John Sebright, Metropolitan Corps.

Third Ambulance Officer William Samuel Rees, Rochdale Corps.

First Class Sergt. William Henry Beeton, Metropolitan Corps.

First Class Sergt. William Frederick Wingfield, Metropolitan Corps.

First Class Sergt. John Alexander Wyllie, Accrington Corps.

Sergt. William Tooth, Market Harborough DIvIsIOn.

Sergt. Alfred Badcock, Metropolitan Corps.

Sergt. John Butler Wilson, Wellingborough Corps.

Sergt. Frederick George Ealey, Metropolitan Corps.

Corp. John Richardson, Rochdale Corps.

Corp. Eli Holt, Heywood Division.

Pte. Thomas Stone, Metropolitan Corps.

Pte. Herbert Holt, Rochdale Corps.

Nursing Sister Mrs. Grimmer, Metropolitan Corps, Children's Home Nursing Division.

Nursing Sister Mrs. Tunstall, Metropolitan Corps, Children's Home Nursing Division.

Nursing Sister Miss M. Lumsden, MEtropolitan Corps, Children's Home Nursing Division.

-FIRST

Nursing Sister Miss G. Botterill, Metropolitan Corps, Children's Home Nursing Division.

Nursing Sister Mrs. Faulstich, Metropolitan Corps, Children's Home Nursing Division.

Nursing Sister Mrs. Beeton, Metropolitan Corps) Children's Home Nursing Division.

Nursing Sister Mrs. Denchfield, Metropolitan Corps, St. John's Gate Nursing Division.

Newport (Mon.) Dock Disaster.

THE value of trained ambulance aid is never perhaps quite so fully realised as when some grim catastrophe takes place in our midst. The terrible disaster which occurred at Newport Docks on Friday, July 2nd, whereby thirty men lost their lives and a large number were seriously injured, has once more proved how necessary and how valuable is the assistance which can be rendered by a band of skilled ambulance men. The services which were rendered by the members of the Newport Ambulance Corps, S.J.A.B., has evoked warm praise from the press, and has been highly commended by the Coroner, and the doctors who were in attendance at the catastrophe.

Immediately after the accident occurred, these ambulance men who were working around the dock, to the number of twelve or more) rushed to the scene and commenced to attend to the injured who had been recovered. Then ensued a long spell of waiting before any more of the injured could be brought out, many bei.ng held down. by heavy timbers their rescue was necessanly slow. Dunng this interval the ambulance arrangements were completed. Relays of men were told off to take duty for six .hours a time reliefs bein a arranged for the whole of Fnday mght and' Saturday In addition to this an am bulance station was hastily erected, in which the necessary stores were placed. In order to ensure EI: constant supply .of hot milk and Bovril throughout the mght a fire was hghted, and branky was kept in readiness for any emergency. During the time nourishment was frequently passed down to the unfortunate men still alive in the trench, and no doubt prevented their collapsing before their relief could be effected. As soon as first aid had been rendered to the injured they were removed by the ambulance men to the Newport Hospital.

The call to duty was responded to by am?ulance men with the utmost readiness, and they VIed WIth one another in their eagerness to carry out the orders of the officers. The ambulance arrangements were carried out by Chief Surgeon Hamilton and Superintendent Secretary G. Osborne.

The ambulance men of Newport have on more than one occasion proved their skill in the competition field, they have now proved their value on the stncken field of death. Dr. Hamilton has reason to be proud of the men he has trained.

Corpl. Burgess, of the G.W.R (London) Division, was adjudged the winner, on Thursday, July 1St, of the "Grant Gold Medal." This medal is presented by Dr. Grant of Brondesbury, for open competition all " first' aiders" residing within two miles of Kmg's Hall, Harlesden. The judges on this occasion were Hon. Surgeons J. M. Carvel Hastings.. Corpi. has the heartiest congratulatIOns of hIS comrades In the division.

AI D.- II " Ambulancia."

THIS is not the name of a new disease to be added to the other terrors to which human flesh is heir to, but is the fancy and appropriate name given to an outbreak of generous appreciation whereby the citizens of Bristol desired to show their gratitude to the men of the City of Bristol Corps of the St. John Ambulance Brigade for the splendid voluntary service which they have installed and continue to maintain. As Dr. Griffiths, the popular Deputy Commissioner, truly said, Bnstol is fortunate in having an unrivalled ambulance service.

The arrangements for the fete, which was opened on the 23rd of June by His Grace the Duke of were admirably carried out by an influential committee, and the stall holders comprised all the principal ladies of the City, who vied with one another in their efforts to obtain custom with the view to benefit the funds of the Corps.

As we have said, the opening ceremony was performed by the Duke of Somerset, and it was presided over by the Sheriff of Bristol (Col. Carey Batten), who was supported by a large number of ladies and gentlemen.

His Grace, who was introduced by the Sheriff, said it gave him great pleasure to be able to attend for the purpose of declaring the fete open. He had the of seeing some of the ambulance corps, and theIr smart appearance reflected the highest credit on the officers. He thoroughly realised the excellent work which W:l.S being done in Bristol by these men, and he sincerely wished the fe te every success.

In proposing a vote of thanks to the Duke for hIS kindness in performing the opening ceremeny, Col. Carey Batten asked His Grace to accept from the corps an ambulance case which had been presented by Messrs. Ferris & Co. They trusted that His Grace would never require to use the contents for himself, but that he would carry it with him when he travelled, and perhaps at some time he might by its aid render first aid to someone who required it.

In seconding the vote, Deputy CommIssIoner GrIffiths to the great interest taketJ in the work of the Ass?ciation by the Duchess of Somerset. He hoped that .HIS Grace would be amply repaid for his visit, when he the splendid work done by the in Bristol. He dId not think there was another town or Clty where there was a better ambulance service than in Bristol.

His Grace briefly acknowledged the vote, and said he accepted the ambulance case gratitude.

In addition to the well appOlnted stalls laden with all sorts of inviting articles, there were several side shows, all of which were worthy of patronage. The .band of the 1st Life Guards and Herr Julian Kandt's AustrIan Blue Band discoursed a choice selection of music. Concerts and dramatic performances were also gi.ven daily. In fact there was no lack of entertainment, and It was arranged to cater for all classes.

We have not heard how the financial result came out, but in spite of the weather, was .not all that could be desired, we hope that the well-mtentlOl1ed efforts of the hard-working committee to benefit the funds of the .most, or one of the most, useful organisations in the CIty of Bristol will have been successful. The promoters deserved success.

When corresponding with Advertisers please mention "First Aid."

CUMBERLAND.-A large and representative gathering was present on Saturday, June 14th, at Whitehaven, to witness the final contest for the handsome shield given by the Cumberland Mines and Quarries Centre of the Association for the encouragement of ambulance teaching in the mines and quarries in the county. Dr. Morrison, of Carlisle, acted as judge, and, at the conclusion of his labours-which been no sinecure, the result was announced as follows :-The shield was carried off by the Salter "A" team with 233 points out of a possible 240-a very high percentage; Salter "B" team came next with 2 20 points, and Frizington Lonsdale third, with 216 points. A hearty vote of thanks was accorded the judge for his impartial conduct and careful judging.

SOUTHAl\IPTON.-A crowded and enthusiastic audience assembled at the Hartley Hall, on June 30th, to witness the presentation of certificates, medallions, etc., to the students at the recent classes held in connection with this most successful centre. His Worship the Mayor (CounR: G. Oakley) who was supported by a large and distIngUIshed company The presentation had been kindly undertaken by Lady Idina Brassey (lady of Grace of the Order of St. John), and in welcoming her ladyship, the Mayor spoke of the good work she was doing in and around Hastings. Referring to the invaluable services of Honorary Secretary (Lieut.-Colonel Twiss) his Worship said on a former occasIOn he had heard him likened to an electrical machine-:-he hoped he was not likely to get out of order, and certaInly, at prE'sent, there were no signs of it.

Lieut.-Colonel Twiss then read his report which was of a and encouraging character: but which cons.lderatlOn for o.ur space precludes our dealing with in detall. After referrIng to the number of certificates which had been issued in the last four years (1,797) the Report went on to speak of thE' splendid work which was now being done with the horsed ambulance wagon. Allusion was also made to the First Aid Trophy which had been procured for competition among the members of the Nursing Divisions. It had been arranged to start classes early in October including a course of lectures on " Sanitation" for men. Touching allusion was made to the loss the centre had sustained by the death of the Earl of Hardwicke, who was one of the first Vice-Presidents and a life member.

In. moving adoption of the Report, the Mayor spoke m appreclatlve terms of the success which had attended the work of the session and said it was a cause for thankfulness t.hat were so many amongst them capable of rt.ndenng effiCient first aid in case of accident.

Lad y IdIna Brassey then presented the certificates and other awards, the Star Orchestra in the meanwhile rendering a choice selection of music. When a detachmen.t of Boy. Scouts marched up to the platform to receIve their certIficates they were received with great

A I D - July, 1909

enthusiasm, which was redoubled when Lady Brassey presented the two recipients with the bronze medal of the Humane Society.

In a few well chosen words Lady Brassey expressed her pleasure at having been privileged to make the presentation of the medals. She need not (said her ladyship) congratulate the gentlemen to whom they had been awarded, because the medals spoke for themselves. They would be justly proud of those medals, for there were fewer nobler deeds done than the saving of human life--.:.or the trying to save it.

At this stage of the proceedings Colonel Twiss annQunced the result of the Nurses' Competition for the First Aid Trophy. The first prize was secured by Portsmouth, with 288 marks out of a possible 300; Southampton was second, with 278 marks. In congratulating the winners, Colonel Twiss said he hoped he might be allowed to express the hope that Southampton would be successful next time. Lady Brassey then handed the Cup and other prizes over to the winners.

A hearty vote of thanks was ascorded to Lady Idina Brassey forso kindly attending and making the presentations, on the proposition of the Mayor and seconded by the Sheriff.

In expressing her thanks for the vote, Lady Idina Brassey said it had been a great pleasure to her to be present on that and she congratulated the Southampton Centre most heartily upon its flourishing condition.

Annual Review of the South=East Lancashire Corps and Divisions.

THE annual review of the units of the South-east part of Lancashire was held this year at Crompton, on June 26th. The various corps and divisions on arrival at Shaw Station were formed up in the station yard, and, preceded by the Shaw Prize Band, marched to a field at New Barn. Here they were drawn up to await the arrival of the Inspecting Officer (Col. Trimble, CM.G., Deputy-Commissioner) who was recei ved with a genera! salute. A careful inspection followed of both Am bulance and Nursing Divisions, the former marched past, and subsequently went through a series of ambulance drills and first aid exercises, which were very smartly executed.

The annual competitions in connection with the review were also held, the judges of the different events being :-Ambulance, Hon. Surgeons Russell and Dickey; Nursing, Hon. Surgeons Clegg and Cockill; Equipment and Bedmaking, Hon. Surgeon Cran.

The parade was in charge of District Chief Supt. Garnett, who had as his staff officers Supt. of Stores A. Vernon Davies (in charge of the Nursing Divisions) and District Supt. Treasurer F. de Beho Pim.

At the conclusion of the competitions the men were drawn up and briefly addressed by the Inspecting Officer in his usual genial and kindly manner. He expressed his entire satisfaction with the whole of the day's work, which he considered was a great improvement on previous years. He would like the public to know that they were not like the Territorials of the present day. They had no Government grant, but existed by their own exertions, and he could assure them that they had a jolly hard uphill fight to contend with. They had given an excellent display, "and men," said the Colonel," all the more credit to you for doing this work, You get nothing for it, and but little encouragement, you do it simply fOT the love of the work."

-FIRST

After thanking several officers and friends for the assistance they had rendered, the Deputy-Commissioner announced the results of the competitions :-

Ambulance Divisions: 1st (" Wilson and Stockall" Shield), Rochdale; 2nd (South-East Lancashire Cup), Haslingden; 3rd, Norden.

For Equipment: 1st, Bury ; 2nd, Oldham and Prestwich tied.

Nursing Divisions: 1st (" Tweedale and Smalley" Shield), Castleton; 2nd (" Lees" Memorial Cup), Ashton; 3rd, Norden.

For Bedmaking: 1St, Bacup; 2nd, Castleton.

The prizes were presented to the successful competitors by Mrs. Arthur Clegg, who was cordially thanked for her kind services, on the proposition of Col. Trimble, seconded by District Chief Supt. Garnett. The vote was carried with cheers, and Mr. Clegg returned thanks on behalf of his wife.

T;:!a was subsequently served in the Co-operative Hall, and in the evening largely attended socials were held in the Conservative and Liberal Halls. Prior to the review, the officers were entertained at the "Blue Bell" Hotel by the president of the Crompton Division (Mr. A. Clegg).

Travel and Sports Exhibition.

DOUBTLESS many of our readers will visit the Travel Exhibition, at Olympia, before it closes on August 4th. We would advise all that do so not to miss Messrs. Burroughs, Well come & Co.'s Exhibit which will be found in the centre of the Hall, near the band stand. The specialities in tabloid form which have made the name of this firm famous, have had many imitators who have placed on the market medicines in tablet and tabelle form, but none have ever come up to the products issued by this well known firm. Included in Messrs. Burroughs, Wellcome & C0.'S Exhibit will be found "Tabloid" Medical Equipments for travellers, induding admirably

AI D.-

"Vaporole," which is claimed to be the ideal means of carrying a supply of powerful aromatic ammonia for inhalation in sases of fainting, etc. This is something which will, we have no doubt, appeal to the Nursing Sisters of St. John, for use on public duty.

To those of our readers who may not have the opportunity to visit Olympia, we say write to Messrs. Burroughs, Wellcome & Co., Snow-hill, London, KC., and ask for a copy of the dainty little guide and catalogue which they have issued in connection with the Exhibition.

Ambulance Work at the Royal Show.

THE ambulance arrangements at the annual meeting of the Royal Agricultural Society, which was held at Gloucester this year, were undertaken by the local division of the St John Ambulance Brigade, the City of Gloucester Division, of which Dr. F. H. Sprague is honorary surgeon and superintendent.

The furnishing and equipping of the station was most complete in every detail, and the four rooms which comprise the suite at the disposal of the staff looked bright and cheerful. Beds and nursing appliances were kindly lent by Miss Oyler, matron of the Royal Infirmary; Mr. Pitcher kindly lent the pictures which adorned the walls, while the furnishing was done by Messrs. Matthews; altogether the little hospital presented quite a home-like appearance-how different to what it presented at Derby when we last sa.w it; th e meagre appearance of the whole surroundings was then quite depressing. Dr. Sprague and Mr. T. W. Wilson, the hon. secretary of the local centre of the St. John Am bulance Association, who were responsible for the fitting up and working of the station are to be congratulated upon their successful co-operation, one more instance of how advantageous it is to the local ambulance corps when it can work in conjunction with the local centre.

Eight men were on duty each day, in charge of Corporals Smith, Stringer and Drinkwater. Corporal Smith being On duty with the nurses at the station, the other two corporals and men being posted on duty at the show yard. Hon. Surgeon Sprague was on duty each day, and two members of the division were detailed for duty each night.

During the meeting several casualties, fortunately none of a serious character, received attention, and several letters expressive of appreciation have since been received. The litLle hospital was the object of much interest to the visitors attending the show, and many favourable comments were passed on the completeness of the arrangements.

designed First Aid Cases for motorists, sportsmen and others.

We present here an illustration of one of these cases, which may be obtained in Rex red, Royal blue, or Brewster green enamelled metal for the moderate expe'nditure of lOS. 6d. Its size is 7t in. by 4! in. by 2t in. and it contains "Tabloid" bandages and dressings, "Vaporole" Aromatic Ammonia, for use as smelling salts, "Borofax," carron oil, gutta-percha tissue, plaster, protectl.ve SklO, scissors, pins, etc., and eight tube of "TabloId" and " Soloid" Brand products. There are, of course, many other interesting novelties, a physician'S cycle handle-bar " Tabloid" Brand Medecine Case.

The old-fashioned smelling-bottle is superseded by

On the occasion of the visit of His Majesty, the services of the Stonehouse Division were requisitioned to augment the number of the local men, and early in the day a contingent from that town arrived under the command of Hon. Surgeon McLannahan.

The two most serious cases which occurred on this day were the fatal accident to the young woman in EastGate-street, whose body was conveyed to the infirmary by a squad of mp.n from the two divisions, and the accident at Messrs. Fisher's, which was attended to by the Glouce.ster Division. The other casU1.lties treated were all of a mlDor character. Refreshments were provided for the men on duty at the Corn Exchange, the Barracks, and Cattle Market, and after His Majesty had left the city the .rr: en were, by the courtesy of the Royal Show Authontles, allowed free admission to the show.

It should be mentioned that the Mayor and Mayoress

-FIRST

kindly arranged for the refreshments of the nurses who were on duty, a kind and thoughtful act which was much appreciated.

Hitherto we have had notbing but praise [or the division and its arrangements, out migbt we, in concluding, point out for future guidance that the ambulance station is not a tailor's shop, and the Metropolitan Police could find other more appropriate places for the sewing on of loose buttons than the ambulance station.

Bradford Fire Brigade.

PRESENTATION OF LONG SERVICE MEDALS AND AMBULANCE CERTIFICATES.

TIlE members of the Bradford City Fire Brigade, which reflects so much credit on its chief officer, and of which the city is so justly proud, assem bled in full force in the recreation room at the Central Fire Station, on June 23rd, to receive Long Service Medals, Ambulance Certificates and Badges from the National Fire Brigades' Union, and Medallions from the St. John Am bulance Association.

The presentation was to have been made by the chairman of the Fire Brigade Committee (Alderman James Freeman), but owing to his indisposition it was kindly undertaken by the deputy chairman (Mr. Vlilliam Wade), who was supported by the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress (Mr. and Mrs. James Hill), Mrs. Wade, Mrs. J. Freeman, Alderman James Godwin, Dr. Vaughan Bateson (District Surgeon, Yorkshire District, N.F.B.U.), Chief Officer Scott (chairman of Council, Yorkshire District, N.F.B. U.), Alderman Moorhouse, French Consul Lievre.

In opening the proceedings, Mr. Wade first expressed regret at the absence of Alderman Freeman, and paid a warm tribute of praise to that gentleman for the valuable services which he had rendered to the Brigade. Dr. Vaughan Bateson then stated that a large number of letters had been received expressing regret at being unable to be. present, from Lord Londesborough (President Yorkshlre Dlstnct, N.F.B.U.), Sir G. Scott Robertson, M.P., Alderman 'N.C. Lupton, Mr. C. Kusel and others.

The Lady Mayoress having first presented Mrs. Freeman with the certificate and badge of the St. John Ambulance Association, the Lord Mayor then presented the several honours to the men. These included four medallions) given by Alderman J. A. Godwin, to encourage the study of ambulance instruction.

A handsome bouquet of roses and lilies of the valley was presented to the Lady Mayoress by Mrs. Freeman, who also proposed that a hearty vote of thanks be accorded to her ladyship for her kindness in being present this was seconded by Mrs. Wade and carried.

The Lady Mayoress having responded, Dr. Bateson proposed a hearty vote of thanks to the Lord. Mayor for kindly attending and making the presentatIOn. The Bradford Fire Brigade said the speaker,. ambulance members' than any other brigade 111 the Umon; and in his usually pleasant and cultured the doctor went on to compliment the p.opular offic.er, and referred to the pride which the city took 111 Its brigade. The various certificates had been won by sheer hard work. The ambulance certl0cate of the National Fire Brigades' Union was the highest rank of « first aid" efficiency, while those of the St. John Ambulance Association bore on them the badge

AI D.- July, 19° 9

of the oldest of all the Orders of Chivalry and KnighthOOd in christendom. Several humorous points in the doctor's speech were much appreciated by his audience.

Alderman Godwin seconded the proposition in a very happy speech, and pointed out that of all the functions a Lord Mayor was called upon to attend, it had been his experience that the visit to Capt. Scott and the Fire Station was the one that left the pleasantest aroma behind; it was imperative that every fireman should be a good "first aider," and it was gratifying to know that the Bradford Brigade lead in am bulance work with thirty-three qualified officers and men, including the twelve who had received the Long Service Medal of the Union. Thirty-three members were also in possession of either the certificate or the medallion of the St. John Ambulance Association. The resolution was carried with acclamation.

In his response, his lordship said it was impossible to refuse the request of Dr. Bateson, who did so much for true am bulance work in the city, it had been his privilege to meet him at all the branches of the work, and he was pleased therefore to be present, because he like d to support those who worked hard themselves, and be desired also to encourage them in the work in which they were engaged. There was no grander work in which one could be engaged than in helping those who were not able to help themselves.

On the proposition of Chief Officer Scott, seconded by the Lord :Mayor, Mr. Wade was thanked for presiding and suitably responded.

Subsequently a demonstration was given by the fire brigade consisting of a smart "turn-out" of the escape, steamer and first aid machine. This was followed by a wet drill and the rescue of injured persons from the roof, by means of the escape. The various injuries received the proper treatment and the patients were removed on stretch ers.

Much amusement was caused by the rescue of an old woman, who on descending the escape, proved by the size of her boots to be a substantial fireman suitable disguised with mask and clothirJg.

After the display, by the kindness of Alderman Freeman and Mr. Wade, tea was provided, a pleasant evening being spent by the firemen and their friends.

An interesting ceremony took place at the Central Fire Station, Bradford, on Friday, June 9th. The occasion was the presentation of a silver mounted dressi n g case and travelling bag to Station Officer J. W. Marlton, on his to take up the position of Chief Officer of the Keighley Fire Brigade. The presentation was made by Superintendent Forbes, who, in a few well-chosen wo rd s, expressed the regrets of both officers and men at losing the services of the recipient, but voiced the hope that his popularity and success would be as great and lasting in h is new berth as it had been whilst working amongst them. Chief Officer Malton replied suitably, and said how hea r t il y he appreciated the spirit which had prompted his comrades to remem ber him so handsomely . The new ch i e f officer joined the Bradford Brigade in 1897, but for the last three years has been in charge of the Odsal District Station. There were many applications for the pos i tion, a nd Chief Officer Malton is to be highly congratulated on gai n i n g the appointment.

WH EN CO R RERPONDING WITH ADVERTISE R S P L EAS E MENT I ON " FIRST AlD "

A I D.- IS

upon your space, but the importance of the subject warrants my asking your kind indulgence.-Yours respectfully, A SlJlt·i,' ERER.

TIIE RESIG ATIO OF COLONEL CIBBON.

<:;l4J>

We are in no way responsible jor the opinions expressed, or the statements made, by Correspondents.-EDITORS.

S.J.A.B. BRIGADE REGULATIONS.

DEAR SIR, - Your remarks in last month's issue of your periodical upon the present administration of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, were severe but not one whit more severe than the subject warranted. An enquiry is undoubtedly wanted, for there are grievances in existence which I have never seen referred to, even in your impartial columns, I allude to the arbitrary way in which the rule relating to the efficiency of members is enforced.

The objects of the Brigade are thus defined in the General Regulatinns approved by the Council and Chapter of the Order of St. John :-

(I.) To afford holders of first aid certificates from the the St. John Ambulance Association opportunities of meeting together for ambulance and nursing practice, wzilt tlu object of combining individual efforts for tlz e jmblz'c advantage

(2.) To render first aid to the sick and injured on public occasions, with the sanction of the police and other authorities, and to maintain in readiness for such duty a body of trained men and nurses qualified so to act.

(3.) To enrol a body of civilians, qualified in first aid and trained in ambulance drill or nursing duties, willing to be placed at the disposal of the military and other authorities as a supplement to the public medical services in case of necessity either at home or abroad.

(4.) To trm'n £12 ambulance transport duties.

(5.) To develop and promote every means of rendering aid to the injured.

The italics are my own, Mr. Editor, I have used them to fully press home the grievance to which I wish to draw attention.

The objects of the Brigade are very clear and distinct as regards the policy of combining for the jJublic ativllnta,!(t, they are also very explicit as regards til e training 0/ men in tnlllsjJort duties, and I am convinced that when Brigades were first started, it was with the view to still further increase the efficiency of ambulance men in first aid and transport duties, the question of drill was quite an afterthought-I mean in the military sense. I don't wish to be misunderstood, I am not opposed to military drill, I think it was a wise move to adopt it, but I contend it ought not to be considered of greater importtance than transport duty. This latter duty to my mind is of tremendous importance. Firstly, it requires exceptional skill in lifting patients, and placing them in rail way trains and other conveyances; thus it often happens that the same man is constantly requisitioned to take cbarge of a case requiring special skill and care, and it may happen that in the discharge of this duty, the man may put in upwards of fifty a t tendances in the course of a year, and yet, forsooth, because be fai ls to attend the full corrJplement of twelve drills required by Brigade Regulations, he is returned as non-efficient by the Headquarters administration, and loses a year's service towards his service medal. No allowance is made for his devoted duty to the transport work of his Division. Is this fair-is it logica l ? And yet I have known this rule to be so enforced as to result in the resignation of a good man! No, no, Mr. Editor, drill is all very well, and I admit necessary; but I think that transport service which may justly be regarded as active service, should entitle a man to some marks towards efficiency

I am afraid, Sir, I have trespassed to a very great extent

SIR,-The members of the No. VI. District held their district church parade at St. Thomas' Church Newcastle on June 13th, when there were 305 members under' the command of myself; the whole of the members attended in uniform. A v.ery impressing sermon was preached by the Rey. Dr. HarrIson, the Master of the Magdalene Hospital. ThiS. was the most successful church parade as yet held in the distriCt.

I was put in charge of the district pending the of a new Deputy Commissioner the following new dlVlslons have formed :-Chopwell Colliery, 19 members; Consett and district, 18; Allhusen's Works, 27; Victoria Garesfield, 24; St. Hilda, 18; and just prior to the resignation Gibbon, I attended meeting at which the following dlYlslons were also formed :-Murton Colliery, 20 members; High Spen, 22; Hebburn, 20; a total of 168 new members. Divisions are also being formed at Wardley Colliery and ShIlbottle, and there are possibilities of five other divisions being formed in the near future. This hardly bears out your statement in last month's issue of FIRST AID, anticipating that the resignation of Colonel Gibbon would have disastrous effects on the district. This is the largest increase in the time that has ever taken place in the district, and the prospects for the future are exceedingly good.

A big combined inspection of all the North Country Divisions is to take place at Gosport Park on July T7th, 1909. -Yours truly,

C. B. PAHIER, Assistant Commissioner in charge of No. VI. District.

July 1st, 1909.

DEAR SIR,-I do not know Colonel Gibbon, and I do not belong to his District, but as one who has had an experience of the vacillating and irritating tactics of the weak-kneed administration which now controls the St. John Ambulance Brigade, I desire to support your proposal for an enquiry into the many grievances which are now in existence, records of which are, I suppose, at present simply "pigeon holed " at Headquarters, never to see the light of day, unless pressed for by some such enquiry as you suggest. I know my assertions will be denied-but fa c ts are stubborn things, if all is right, why is it that we so constantly see in your advertising columns officers' uniforms for sale? In the June number there are seven, including those of all the princi pal officers of one corps. This does not look as though all was serene and peaceful. \rVere it not for the love of the work which keeps many men in the Brigade, there are a good few who would resign to-morrow, disgusted with the treatment to which they are constantly subjected

Once let the Territorials get a firm hold, and obtain the necessary permission to undertake civil public duty, and thinking men, weighing, the advantages of the one against the other, and the difference in the treatment to which they are subjected, will elect to be a King s man rather than accept service in an organisation which is practically under the control of a despotic head, who is apparently permitted to work his own sweet will, and is responsible to no one.- Yours, &c., FIFTEEI YEARS SERVICE (but seriously considering resignation )

DEAR SIR,-l, along with many other officers in No. VI. District, was sincerely sorry to hear of the of our popular Commissioner. He was somewhat 1.mpetuous I am ready to admit, but no one has ever him to do an kind action or use a harsh word Without a reason for It. Under his the various Corps and Divisions were all subjected to the same law-in strict with Brigade Regulations. There was favoL1':ltlsm,. the of the District as a whole was hiS one aim-hiS sole ambitIOn to make it second to none in efficiency and utility. He never spared himself; he had the leisure and he gave it ungrudgingly to promote the extension of the work

I6 -FIRST

We are not, as yet, in possession of the real reasons which precipitated the Colonel's resignation. There are several rumours about, but most of us can give a shrewd guess as to the actual cause, and we endorse your view, Mr. Editor, that he has practically been harried out of it, and as you say, " the Brigade is the poorer for the loss of one of its ablest exponents," and might I add most stalwart champions.

Thanking you in ad\'ance for space for this letter.-Yours faithfully, "A YORKSHIRE TYKK"

THE PRESENT CAP OF THE ST. JOHN AMBULANCE BRIGADE.

DEAR SIR,-I was glad tn see in the June issue of FIRST AID, the opinion of "East Anglian" on the present fatigue cap of the S.J.A.B. I should myself like to see a cap of the new pattern substituted for the present one, which is now practically out-of-date.

At a recent of the Brigade it was remarked that new pattern caps would improve the appearance of the Brigade 10 per cent.

As we are to the fore in ambulance work, let us be up-todate in appearance, and thus tend to stimulate a greater interest in the Brigade.-Yours truly, FATIGUE.

DEAR SIR,-Noticing in your last issue a letter signed by " East Anglian" we should like to take this opportunity of expressing our views on this matter. Having attended the last camp, fully endorse what our comrade says regarding the deSirabIlIty of some change being made in our existing head gear, and this is certainly the opinion of all Brigade members with whom we have come in contact. What we consider is required is a cap that combines smartness with serviceability, for instance, one of the same pattern as that now issued to the Territorials, only of black material with a thin white piping round edge of top and a nickel badge in front also an adjustable white cover for use during the sum me; r:lOpths. With the existing c.ap it inevitably happens that when llftlllg a stretcher, o,r otherWise stooping, it falls off; and again, when on duty clunng wet weather the water tickles off the \\-aterproof c?vering the neck of the wearer, and it might also be mentIOned that If the weather should prove exceptionally hot no protection whatever is afforded to the back of the head.

Trusting that we are not encroaching already on your limited space.- Yours truly,

G. S. SCOTT & R. R. J. PETTETT.

TREAT:v1ENT OF DISLOCATION OF HIP AND BOTH BONES OF LEG BROKEN ON RIGHT SIDE.

SIR,-I should be glad if you will reply through the medIUm of your well-known Journal to the following'"Treat a dislocation of hip and both bones of leg broken 'on right side."

There is a great diversity of opinion about this among the our class, and I should be obliged if you will put nght. WIth to the same. Should we be justified m. applymg the splInt from armpit to below the feet?- Yours faithfully,

G. E. LEWIS, Hon. Sec., S.t. Pan.cras Ambulance Corps.

[First treat the fracture WIth splInts, both on outside and Illslde of leg.

If t?e dislocat!on be. such. that the patient can bear the leg put down III a lIne WIth the body, then a long splint armpIt to feet may be put on, provided it makes the patIent comfortable and able to bear transport.

If the dislocation causes the le g to be abducted that is away. fr<?m the middle of the body, a long splInt IS not because It wIll cause pain. In this case, mak.e the as comfortable possible on the stretcher, puttmg t.he leg III as a P?SltlOn. as. possible, supporting It WIth pIllars (of cloth III g ) on eIther SIde If required -EDITOR "F A."]

VISCOUNTESS ESHER'S AMBULANCE CLASSES.

My DEAR gathe.r from your pages that the ambulance classes whIch are belllg organised by Lady Esher,

AI D.- July, I909.

have in view the enrolment of the women, who may obtain the certificate of the St. John Ambulance Association." Now what does this imply? A short in FIRST AID, you advocated the enrolment of Nursll1g Sisters of the Brigade in some such way as the ambulance men are enrolled in the Military Hospitals Reserve, and many of us thought the idea was a very good one, and were quite prepared to fall in with it but nothing apparently came of the suggestion, as we heard nothing further of it. And now comes this new move. What does it mean? Are the Association authorities going to run an opposition movement against the Brigade? It looks very much like it. If so, is it wise - is it kind? Those women who join this Territorial Branch after one course of lectures of what value would they be: in the case of emergency, they had opportunitIes of keeping up their instruction, such as we get 111 the Brigade-? But there, perhaps, it is intended that they shall have the same privileges as are given to men in the Brigade, of further instruction at a military hospital. If this is so, I, for one, think it very unfair to the members of the Nursing Divisions who have for years past striven to keep themselves fit in both ambulance and nursing.

FIRST AID used to champion our cause. Why is it silent now? Surely, Sir, you cannot approve of the selection of untried women over the heads of the Nursing Sisters of the Brigade! I trust that someone in a higher position than myself will have something to say about the matter.-Yours sincerely,

A NURSING SISTER.

[In reply to our correspondent, we can at once assure her our views' on the question of the enrolment of Nursing of the Brigade as a special reserve for service in case of natIonal emergency, have not altered in the slightest and we still hope it may be possible to adopt such a scheme. As regards the enrolment. of women possessing only the superficial knowledge whICh would be acquired after one course of first aid lectures, we do not believe that such is the intention of either the Military or the Association authorities. But it is recognised that it is advisable that every woman should have sorr:e knowledge on so important a subject, for in the event of natIOnal emergency, a level headed woman with even a slight knowledge of the work would be of some use, whereas without any. training, she would be absolutely helpless. After all.lt. IS the lesson .the Japanese have taught us-universal trall1ll1g for all sectIOns of society.-EDITOR "F.A."]

DEAR SIR,-I venture to ask for a little space in this issue ?f your valuable Journal, FIRST AID, for the foll.owll1g guestlOn: I am captain of a railway ambulance squad "Yhlch deSIres to take par t in open competitions but have very l!ttle knowledge respecting the same, will any kind-hearted reader gi.ve me hints, advice, information, and particulars of the and tests, which are given to squads attendll1g these competItIOns? If so, they would greatly oblige addressing thei r letters and postcards, &c., to-Yours faithfully,

"

HUMERUS,"

9, Broughton-street, Hebden Bridge.

CLARNICO FIRE BRIGADE.- The annual inspection of thiS smart volunteer fire brigade, one of the smartest and ?1os t in the took place on June I9th the s-yard, Clamlco Works, Hackney Wick. The I11spectmg officer was Col. Fox, who at the termination of the dnll paid a well merited mede of praise to the officers and men for the very excellent display they had given. was a large num bes of fire brigade officers from other bngades who loud in their praise at the high state of effiCiency to whIch Chief Officer G. M. Horn has brought his brigade; indeed, it is no exaggeration to say the" Clarnico" is better equipped and more highly tramed than are many municipal fire brigades.

FIRST AID.

The Independent Journal for the Ambulance and Fire Services.

To Our Readers.

As it is the wish and desire of the Proprietors to make this Journal as instructive and entertaining as possible, correspondents in all parts of the country are asked to give it all the help they can. Superintendents of Corps and Officers of Divisions of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, Officers of the Royal Army Medical Corps (Territorials), the Volunteer Ambulance School of Instruction, and Chief Officers of Fire Brigades will, it is hoped, do their best to make it known amongst the members of their respective organisations, and will also send for publication their official news and notices. Suggestions are invited for Prize Competitions and other matters which will advance the interest of the] ouma!.

We particularly desire to ask our correspondents to be brief and to the point in any communications they may send us for publication.

Correspondents sending in photos are urgently requested to state on the back of the same the name of the individual or the Corps or Brigade and give also the name and address of the sender.

We beg to advise our readers that we do not pay for photographs or copy sent, unless previously agreed upon in writing.

" First Aid" is published on the 20th of the month.

EDITORIAL.

THE sympathy of not only the whole of the Fire Service, but of every fairminded citizen will be extended to Mr. Gamble, the Second Officer of the London Fire Brigade, on the treatment to which he has been subjected by an autrocratic majority of the London County Council. To say that the treatment was unfair is but midly to describe the action of a clique, which in matters appertaining to the Fire Brigade apparently rules the Council. We have had occasion to adversly criticise this body on previous occasions, but their conduct in connection with the recent selection of a Chief Officer for the London Brigade is worthy only of the malignancy of Tammany Hall in its worst days. Various reasons have been given for ignoring the candidature of Mr. Gamble, one of the most specious being, that a petition in favour of his appointment to the post had been circulated for signature amongst the men, for presentation to the Council. This, it was contended, had led to the rejection of Mr. Gamble by the Committee of selection. Unfortunately for these Pinchbeck disciplinarians, enquiry has brought to light the fact that this precious petition, of which so much had been made, and of the cognizance of

The London County Council and Mr. Gamble.

which it was admitted neither Mr. Gamble or any of the other principal officers had any knowledge, was prompted only after a paragraph had appeared in one of the London evening papers, asserting that the rejection of Mr. Gamble was due to the conviction of the General Purposes Committee that, with a Brigade of I,300 men, mostly ex-sailors, it was necessary to have a Chief Officer who had been used to the command of sailors. It was this iniquitous contention which prompted the ill-advised action of the men. The theory advanced by Mr. Gosling-a mem ber of the Fire Brigade Committee-was, we think, nearer the mark. "He (Mr. Gamble) was not a fancy man," in other words, implying he was not a Service man. It was admitted even by those in opposition to his promotion, that Mr. Gamble was a most able officer, and a man who, on the technical side of the work was probably without an equal and yet these men, having the control of the organisation, which is responsible for the protection of life and property from fire, over so large and important an area c\.S the Metropolis, ignoring the qualifications possessed by their Second Officer, for some reason known only to themselves, passed him over, and this was his reward after seventeen years of faithful and devoted service. The supposition that the majority, or at least a section of them, were not actuated by the desire to secure the best man for the post, is fully borne out by their action, in first recommending Commander C. V. de Cowper, and then at the first sign of opposition promptly dropping him, lest their action in pressing his candidature should split the vote, and thereby secure Mr. Gamble's election. Such contemptible tactics might be expected from some of the Municipal bodies which recently figured so unpleasantly in the public eye, but they are unworthy of the traditions of the governing body of the largest city in the world. It was recently our privilege to be present at it gathering of Professional Fire Chiefs of Great Britain, when an address was delivered by Mr. Gamble, wherein he dealt with the subject of fire extinction from different standpoints in a manner which proved that, not only was he a practical fireman, but that he was also thoroughly conversant with the more intricate principles and theories connected with fire prevention, as well as those of fire extinction. Indeed, we make bold to say that not even the late Sir Eyre Massey Shaw

possessed a greater knowledge of this subject, than is possessed by Mr. Gamble to-day. Indeed, owing to the advance which the science of fire-fighting has made in recent years, the latter, it is fair to assume, i1; in possession of higher and more scientific knowledge than was available for his predecessor. As an object le5son which Londoners, and the L.e.e. in particular, would do well to lay to heart, it may be noted, that while in Birmingham, Glasgow and other great cities it is the invariable custom to promote the second in command, if he is worthy and possesses the necessary qualifications, it has been left to the governing body of the Metropolis to present-not for the first time- as pitiful an exhibition of the want of appreciation of long and faithful service as it has ever been our lot to chronicle.

It is sincerely to be hoped that the proposed Am bulance Service will NOT be placed under the control of a body which, regardless of the trust reposed in it, is prepared to sacrifice the efficiency of an important public service in a spirit of private pique.

For Lieut. Sladen we have have not one word of reproach. We have every reason to believe that he would honestly have preferred the promotion of his senior, and he would have been thoroughly satisfied to have taken" his step." We sincerely hope that the feeling of comradeship which has hitherto existed between all ranks in the L'mdon Fire Brigade may still continue, but the experiment of promoting a junior over the head of a senior, who has not only length of service in his favour, but is also possessed of higher expert skill, is one which but few Municipalities would, we should think, care to emulate, and those of our readers who, like ourselves, believe in a just recognition of long and faithful service will say-it is well that it is so.

Coming Events.

Pa?,timlars offortllcoming events will be inserted in litis colulIIn /?'t' e oj charge, if received not later tllan the I4th of each month

Br£erfield.-- The annual competition for the "Tunstill " Memorial Challenge Shield will be held on Sept. 18. Particulars can be obtained from Sergt. A. C. Smith, Quaker's Bridge Brierfield. A nursing competition for the "Veevers" Bowl will be held on the same date. Particulars from Miss E. J. Bolton, 19, Halifax-road, Brierfield.

Pontefract.- The annual corr,petition for the Pontefract Subscription and prizes. (sanctioned by the Deputy-CommIssIoner, NO·5 Dlstnct) WIll take place in the grounds of Pontefract Castle,on Sept. 25th. Particuiars and entry forms may be had from Sergt. Secretary J. Nicholson, Paradise -gardens, Pontefract.

Raventhorpe.- The fifth annual competition for the Silver Challenge Cup and other valuable prizes will be held on lIth, .op.en to all corps and divisions; also competltlOn for ASSOClatlOn teams. Entry forms may be had on application to the secretary, Mr. W. Ledgard Alma House Ravensthorpe-road, Thornhill. near Dewsbury. ,

Competition for the "Sir Charles Warren" Shield.

H.R.H. PRINCESS LOUI SE (DUCIlESS OF A1HWLL)

PRE SI£NTS THE SHIELD TO THE \VINl':ER S

SATURDAY, July 24th, was a red letter day in the history of Welsh ambulance, for on that occasion H.R.H. Princess Louise (Duchess of Argyle) honoured the Committee of th e " Sir Charles Warren" Shield by presentIng the trophy to the successful team, and the prizes to the runners-up.

In order that there should be no waiting when the Princess arrived, the competition which took plaCe on the recreation ground at Mardy, started at 9.25 a. m. The Judges were Col. Trimble, C. M.G., V. D. (Deputy-Commissioner, No. 4 District) and District Chief Surgeon Audland (No. 3 District). The following teams entered for the competition: Tynbedw, Abergorki, Maindy and Eastern, Ystrad-Rhondda, Llynypia, Mardy, Ferndale, Tylorstown, Wattstown, Cymmer, and Great Weste rn Colliery.

The competition which was witnessed by a large concourse of people was very keenly contested, and the winning team deservedly received a great ovation at the conclusion of the ordeal. The result was as follows:-

1St, Mardy; 2nd, Ferndale; 3rd, Maindy and Eastern; 4th, Abergorki. Our hearty congratulations to the winning team and their popular honorary surgeon, upon whom the result reflects the highest possible credit, for Dr. Glanville Morris has spared neither time or trouble to bring his me n to a high state of efficiency.

At p.m. the judges, officials, &c., adjourned to D ,.lVid's Hall for luncheon, under the genial presidency of the District Chief Superintendant (Mr. Talien E. Richards).

The first toast was that of "The Sovereign Head and Patron of the Order" which was put from the chair, and enthusiastically received.

In proposing the toast of "The Grand Prior of the Order "-H.R. H. the Prince of Wales-the Chairman said there was no one who took a keener interest in the work of the Order than did the Grand Prior, and in each year the medals and certificates awarded by the Order, with the sanction of the Sovereign, were presented at Marlborough House by His Royal Highness, who had a kindly word for each recipient. They would be pleased to have his aunt, the Princess with them to take part in the that day. He had bef:n given to understand that Princess Louise was the favourite sister of the King, and that to her was deputed a 1n.rge amount of the benevolent and philanthropic work carried out by His Majesty. When she asked the King whether she should go to Wales his reply was " Go hy all means."

The next toast, that of "The St. John Ambulance Association," was given by Mr. W. D. Wight, M.E., who, although called on, as he said, somewhat unexpectediy, made a most telling speech in praise of the work cf the Association in the colliery districts. The speaker also warmly praised the splendid work done by the members of medical profession. The names of Inspector-General Belgrave Ninnis and Colonel Cureton were coupled with the toast.

Inspector-General Belgrave Ninnis (Chief Commissioner), who was warmly received, said it was a pleasure to him to be present on such an important occasion. They

August, 1909. -FIRST

had a large number of men doing a great deal of good in more ways than one. They were told that the ordinary ambulance work wac; neglected in order to win the shield. As Chief Commissioner he knew something about it, and he could reply to those critics. If they could ge t one team, or one class of men, who had trained themselv es sufficiently to fight for the shield, that did not warrant their calling it "pot-hunting." There were many people who did not know what the St. John Ambulance Brigade means. He would not enter into a description of the Order, but would like to say something about it. No. 7 was the youngest District, but the advance it had made during the last two or three years, in numbers, in efficiency, was phenomenal. That spoke well for the men of the Brigade,

AI D.-

19

better than a rabble, instead of what it was universally acknowledged to be, the best organisation in the world. Col. Cureton (Deputy-Commissioner, NO.7 District), whoalsoresponded,said he desired to emphazise the remarks of the proposor of the toast, as to the debt of gratitude they owed to the medical men. The medical men had backed up NO.7 in a manner that he had seen equalled nowhere else. At all parades their honorary surgeons turn out in uniform, and in a word "play the game." For this whole-hearted service they were grateful. St. John's would be nowhere if it were not for the medical men, and they thanked them for the way they had backed up NO.7 in promoting the work and extending the District. The advance they had made was wonderful. They were

and for the support, the whole-h ea rted support, the Brigade received from those who were in a position to help. As Chief Commissioner he knew. However willing men might be to work their work was useless unless they received the assistance the employers and the of the whole community. He knew somethmg about It, for he had for six years been Chief Commission.er,. and for about four years previous to that Deputy CommlssIoner. It was impossible for one individual to control 17,000 to )8,000 men and women- although the women were easily controlled-without treading on someone's toes. If had trodden on the toes of anyone present, he would like to say he was sorry and that there was no animus: Or?ers must be obeyed or the organisation would get mto lIttle

grateful t-o the Chief Commissioner for making the journey.

As the hour for the arrival of the Royal visitors drew near the streets of Mardy were thronged with an enthusiastic' and loyal crowd. The approaches to the hall where the presentation was to take place were lined by the local ambulance men, about 300 strong, and there also a detachment of the Army Service Corps (Ttrntorlals) on duty.

Her Royal Highness, who was accompanIed by ?IS Grace the Duke of Argyll, received a tremendous ovatIOn on her arrival, and a handsome bouquet was .to her by Miss Gwladys Richards, of DIstrict Supt. Richards, while Miss Eva Morns, daughter of ChIef

THE SQUAD.

Chief Surg. Gl anvi lle M a lli s Ch ie f Supt. T. E. I\ichards.

W. J. Lewis. IIywe\ llichards. john Jones. Dr. IV. Grant.

J. W. Lewis. Capl. T. J. Evans. Sergt. D. l\J. Jones.

-FIRST

Surgeon Morris, pinned a button-hole in His Grace's coat. This pleasing liltle function creating loud applause.

The proceedings were presided over by Mr. Jenkins, 1. P., who was supported by the Duke and Duchess, General Sir I vor Herbert and Lady Herbert, InspectorGeneral Belgrave Ninnis, Col. Cureton, YD., Col. Trimble, C.M.G., and others.

Chief Supt. Tom Davies first read an address of welcome from the executive and the officers of the Rhondda Corps. This was afterwards handed to Her Royal Highness, with a few words of cordiality by the chairman.

The album in which the address is enclosed is a handsome work of art, as is also the illuminated lettering of the address, which was the work of an old collier boy, a fact which was communicated to Her Royal Highness by the chairman, and evidently increased her pleasure in the gift.

Several presentations having been made to Her Royal Highness, Col. Trimble announced the result of the competition, which was greeted with an outburst of applause, clearly proving that the victory was a popular one.

Her Royal Highness, who is well known as a skilful artist, closely examined the beautiful work of the shield, which she then presented to First Officer Williams, of the Mardy Team, amidst renewed applause from the large gathering. The three next teams in order of merit also received at the hands of the Princess certificates and prizes.

His Grace the Duke of Argyll, responding on behalf of the Princess, said that they were most grateful for the reception accorded them, the Princess appreciated greatly the Welsh kindliness and warmheartedness with which they had welcomed her. He was struck with the marvellous growth which, according to their chairman, the Valley had made in recent years. It explained to him a certain idea which seemed to be prevalent, that wherever there was a Welshman he must be looking for coal or something under his feet. It was of immense interest to the Princess to hear how the am bulance corps had been raised in a district where accidents were, unfortunately, inevitable, and it was gratifying to know that their members were able to do a great deal to combat the consequences of some of the accidents which are associated with the mining industry. It was a matter for congratulation that owing to the researches which were now being made at Cardiff, and other large centres, they were able to more or less foresee the troubles likely to arise, and the modern school was doing its utmost to guard against them. The Princess appreciated the kindness shown, and would retain most grateful memories of her visit to the Rhondda Valley.

General Sir Ivor Herbert, M.P., called upon the meeting to give an expression of its thanks to Her Royal Highness for her gracious act in coming amongst them and presenting the prizes to the successful teams of the ambulance corps. The am bulance mem bers present were the fortunate ones. The unfortunate ones were on duty, but they would welcome their more fortunate comrades, with the determination to try and be winners themselves on the next occasion. They as Welshmen were good fighters, and loved a contest, whatever form it took. Although the losers would not receive a prize from Her Royal Highness's hands, they would give their comrades a hearty cheer in recognition of their victory. They had not forgotten the great Queen-the Princess's mother-and always bore in mind their beloved King, who had recently instituted that Order which was to recognise acts of bravery, which for a long time went unrecognised. He would ask the gathering

AIO.- August, g09.

to give in true Welsh fashion-" Croseau or calon i'r Dywyseges. "

The audience sang "Hen Wiad fy Nbadau" as the Royal party left the stage for the waiting cars.

Annual Competition for the "Argenta" Cup.

NEXT to the competition for the "Dewar" Shield there is we suppos e, no more important contest in the lance world than that which takes place annually in " breezy" Blackpool for the handsome" Argenta" Cup.

Seventeen squads, representing the following divisions, took part in the competition this year :-Crompton, Lancaster, Bacup, Horwich, Newcastle-under-Lyne, Crewe, Castleton, Warrington (Cross fields), Norden, Brierfield, Oldham, Ashton-under-Lyne, Hebden Bridge, Barrow, Hindley, Radcliffe and Dukinfield. The judges were Lieut.-Col. A. A. Watson and Hon. Surgeon Leonard G. S. Molloy, and the rendezvous was appropriately the Police Stathln, where the comfort of competitor and critic alike were admirably looked after by the best of police chiefs, Mr. J. C. Derham, Assistant -Commissioner of NO.4 District, who, in spite of all his multifarious duties-looking after the criminal classes, taking fini',er prints, acting as " fairy godfather" for the" kid dies " of Blackpool's poorer citizens, and watching over the interests of the town generally, yet finds time to carry out the duties of hon. secretary to this competition.

At the conclusion of the "trials," the competitors appropriately enough assembled in the court-room to hear " sentence" pronounced. Here were assem bled a goodly number of spectators, amongst whom we noticed the popular Deputy-Commissioner of the District, Col. Trimble, C.M.G., the Mayor and Mayoress, and several representatives of the Argenta Meat Company.

In commencing the proceedings, the Chief Constable made the gratifying announcement that they would be very brief. He then announced that the trophy had been won by Horwich with 170 points, Brierfield was Siecond with 167 points, and Newcastle-under-Lyne (last year's winners) third with 166 points. In conclusion, the asked his -Worship to present the trophy and prizes.

The Mayor, who was heartily received on riSIng to comply with the request, made a happy little speech, in which he referred to the excellent work which he had witnessed that afternoon, and after congratulating the winners his Worship presented the prizes, and subsequently presented anum ber of first aid and nursing certificates.

A very hearty vote of thanks was accorded to the Directors of the Argenta Company for their continued interest in the competition, and also to the judges for kindly adjudicating.

A representative of the Argenta Company replied on behalf of the Company, and Col. Watson replied on behalf of the judges.

On the proposition of Col. Trimble a very hearty vote of thanks was accorded to his Worship the Mayor for his kindness in attending and making the presentations.

LIFE SAVING SOCIETY.-Mr. William Henry, the founder and popular Secretary of this society, sailed from England, on August 7th, for Canada. Mr. Henry will make a tour of the Dominion with a view to organising branches of the Society.

August, 19°9. -FIRST

Al D.- 2

such another meeting to be arranged on a future occasion. The Divisions then marched back to the Railway Station, the trains east and west being due about the same time. The men enjoyed the outing, and the officers and the supernumeraries were unanimous in their opinion that such a foregathering was not only pleasant in itself- but of considerable practical utility.

No. 3 District.

No. District (Metropolitan Corps.)

NO·9 COMPANY (Nos. 27, 37, 44 AND 48 DIVISIONS).

-This Company held its first Church Parade on Sunday, July 25 th , at St. James' (Pari!:lh) Church, when the Vicar preached an appropriate sermon for the occasion. Amongst those present were the Deputy-Commissioner (Colonel Lees Hall), Hon. Surgeon J. M. Carvell, District Supt. Secretary W. J. H. Pontin (representing Headquarters), Supt. W. H. Maunder (in charge of No. 9 Company), Corps Supt. Secretary S. H. Vilven, Corps Supt. of Stores W. W. Goodman, Supt. J. Douglas Knight, No 48 Division ; First Officer A. E. Evans, No. 37 Division; First Officer A. E. Pullen, No. 48 Division ; Supt. G. T. Cooper, and First Officer H. E. Hankin, representing No. 13 (King's Cross, G.N.R.) Division; Staff-Sergt. R. W. Stone and about sixty non.-com. officers and men. The following ladies represented the Nursing Division :- Lady Supts. Mrs. J. Calvin Lines, Miss Blye Bourke and Miss J. c. Mann, First Nursing Officers Miss Edith Bourke, and Mrs. R. Barnes together with upwards of twenty nursing sisters. The centre of the Church was kindly reserved for the officers and men, the ladies also having seats reserved for them. The Company marched to the Church from their headquarters, at Carlton Hall, headed by the G.W.R. and Paddington Borough Prize Silver Band, under their bandmaster. Divine Service was conducted by the Vicar (Rev. Marcus Ramsford, M.A.), the hymns being accompanied by the band and organ. After the Church Service the Company marched back to headquarters and was subsequently dismissed by the Company Commander (Supt. W. H. Maunder).

No. 2 District.

CHICHEST ER AND LITTLEHAMPTON. - These two Divisions held a combined drill on July 22nd at Barnham, midway between the two towns. There was a good muster from each unit. The officers present were :-District Supt. of Stores E. E. Street, Hon. Surgeon F. Richardson, and Supt. A. W. Harris, of Littlehampton. "Wounded" men having been placed in various parts of the field in which the drill took place, on the order being given :-" Collect wounded- advance!" the stretcher squads doubled out to their respective patients, whom they treated for injuries, as specified on the cards attached to the clothing of eacb patient, and conveyed them back on stretchers to the base, where the treatment was examined and the methods criticised by Hon. Surgeon Richardson and by Dr. Collins, a local medical gentleman, who was kind enough to help. The two doctors declared the work to be thoroughly effic ient.

After some bearer-company drill the combined forces were marched to the "Murrell Arms," where supper had been provided by the officers. Time would not allow of much speechifying, but many complimentary and friendly remarks were made, and a gel1eral desire was expressed for

The Assistant-Commissioner will shortly inspect the proposed site for next year's camp, which is situated at Cromer, and if the water supply and other arrangements are in order, there is no doubt that the camp will be held at that place in 1910.

A very interested visitor at this year's camp was Miss Coulcher, Hon. Secretary of the Ipswich Centre, and a Lady of Grace of the Order of St. John. She received a hearty welcome and was a guest at the Officers' Mess for luncheon.

No doubt next year will see an increase of men in camp from the Eastern part of the District.

No.

4 District.

The annual inspection of the Liverpool Corps touk pl ace on the 24th ult., the Inspecting Officer being Assistant-Commissioner L. Whittaker. After the books, stores, &c., had been carefully gone through at headquarters, a move was made to Waterloo, where the Corps, under the command of Chief Supt. J. C. Ellison, was drawn up for inspection. The Liverpool Division was under the command of Supt. W. H. Pugh, and the BootIe Division (in the absence of Supt. Tucker) was in charge of Sergt. Pickering. The parade state was as follows :-1 hon. surgeon, I chief supt., supt., I lady supt., 1 ambulance officer, 4 sergts., 6 corpls., 60 ptes., and 6 nursing sisters; total, 79 of all ranks. After a careful inspection of the men, uniforms, &c., the corps marched-past the saluting point as a company in column, after which a number of movements were performed, including infantry company drill, open and closed stretcher drill, hand seat drill , bandaging, &c. The Corps was afterwards entertained to a aenerous and appetising tea by the kind hospitality of Chief Supt. and Mrs. J. C. Ellison, who, at the close, were accorded a hearty vote of thanks.

On the occasion of the review of Territorial troops at Knowsley Park, on July 5th, by H. M. King, the ambulance arrangements made by the Bngade for the above were in the hands of Chief Supt. Ellison (Liverpool Corps), units were present from the following places:Accrington Alsager, Blackpool, BootIe, Culne, Crewe, Lancaster, 'Liverpool, Port Sunlight, Preston, Waterloo, Wigan, Winsford and Walton-Ie-Dale. The number .on duty was 4 hon. surgeons, 1 I officers, 196 men, 1 nursing officers, 56 nurses. The weather :was and comparatively cool, slight showers falling ?urIng the which probably had the effect of cO!1slderably lessening the labours of the stretcher squads. Between twenty and thirty cases were however treated, being of a slight character only, the most senous being that of a chauffeur who was badly burnt about the face, neck and arms through the bursting and firing of a petrol tank. Two' horse-ambulances were in attendance, one lent by the Liverpool Watch Committee, and the other by Messrs. McDougall, Ltd. Letters of thanks were received by

-F I RST

Chief Supt. Ellison from the principal officials of the review, all of whom expressed their complete satisfaction at the work and arrangements made.

No. 6 District.

We have received from a correspondent a very full account of what is described as "the longest inspection in the North." "The long-looked forward to review of Ambulance Corps in the Northern Counties." Our correspondent who sends on the report in question, has marked it "No. VI. District's answer to FIRST AID and Colonel Gibbon." W(tll we don't quite see the application at present, but, of course, we are open to conviction, and we shall carefully watch the future. We would however advise our correspondent that there is something more beside "long inspections" necessary to ensure the success of an organisation such as the St. John Am bulance Brigade. There are matters to be dealt witb in committee, when the Deputy-Commissioner in char€"e of a district must be firm in the defence of the interests of those under his command. It was here that Colonel Gibbon proved ,the value of his services to the District. If this inspection is the answer to the contention, which we made, we would point out that as one swallow does not make a summer, so one inspection will not make a District. Furthermore, as the gathering is described as "long -looked for" we take it that Colonel Gibbon had, prior to his resignation, had something to do with the preliminaries.

The largest review and combined inspection which has yet been held in the North took place on the Race Course, Gosforth Park, on Saturday, July 19th, the Inspecling Officer being the Chief Commissioner, Inspector General Belgrave Ninnis, R.N. Beautiful weather prevailed and the proceedings were watched by a large concourse of interesterl spectators.

The following Ambulance Divisions were on parade: -Gates head Fell, Hetton-Ie-Hole, Newcastle, South Shields Volunteer Life Brigade, Cramlington, Cowpen Colliery, Felling Colliery, Addison Colliery, Blayden Burn, Hylton Colliery, Ouston Colliery, Burnopfield, Dean and Chapter Colliery, Wearmouth Colliery, Shotton Colliery, Hebburn, High Spen, Victoria Garesfield, ChopwelJ, Connett and District, Allhusens Works, and Wardley Colliery. The following Nursing Divisions were also on parade :-South Shields, Walker, Newcastle, Whitburn, Sunderland and Felling. Assistant-Commissioner C. B. was .in command, other Staff Officers present being Dlstnct ChIef Surgeon ]. Robertson Crease and District Chief Supt. Johnston.

The various Divisions lined-up in Iront of the Grand Stand in. order of se.niority the Nursing Divisions being on the nght of the lme. The various drills and exercises which were gone through gave evidence of careful training. Altogether the review and inspection lasted close upon four hours and other music was performed by Felhng Corps Band, under Supt. Oliver. Dunng the proceedmg there was a demonstration with the " Draeger" life saving apparatus.

At the conclusion of the review the Inspecting Officer addressed the parade. He was, he said, much surprised to see such an excellent muster. He had no idea that he was to .be present. at such a large review, and he thought It .was hIghly creditable to everybody-in fact, the whole thmg was what he would consider an inspection second to none. had only once inspected a larger gatheringthere bemg on that occasion between 800 and 900 men present. The marching that day _had been very good.

AI D.- August, 1909.

Of course, there were just a few things they might improve in, but they were such trivial details that he did not think it worth while going into the matter then, but he had mentioned them to their officers, and doubtless, good would result.

They knew very well, said the Inspecting Officer, that primarily they existed for assisting people in civil life but there was another duty they owed-and that was to their country. There were three ways in which they could do this :-One was the Auxilliary Sick Berth Reserve; there were vacancies there. There were the Bearer Companies, in case of invasion they were up to full strength. Then there was the Military Home Hospital Reserve-that was also full; therefore he would enter any man just to fill vacancies as they occurred. They had got the two thousand men they wanted for that, but they did want some more men for the Royal Navy. He thought they wanted about 500 or 600. It did not mean that they would have to go to sea those who wished to go, could go but, those who wanttd to join the hospitals on shor e , could do so; while, those who wished to, could go abroad and serve in the hospitals. The Brigade had responded so loyally to the three appeals from the reserves that he was glad to say that the military hospital staffs were all full.

Assistant Commissioner Palmer thanked the Inspecting Officer on behalf of the officers and men of the No. 6 District. It was a red letter day for ambulance work in the North of England, because it was the largest muster that had ever taken place of properly disciplined men of efficiency. They would see by the num ber on parade that there was no district throughout the Brigade more loyal to the Order of St. John than No. Vr., because all these men who had come there that day from the northern counties, had come at their own expense on behalf of the Brigade. He thanked the Inspector-General for his kind remarks as to thejr efficiency.

A hearty cheer, on the proposition of Mr. Palmer, was given for the Inspecting Officer and the proceedings terminated.

COLLIERY RESCUE STATlON S.- When deciding on th e establishment of a rescue station to serve a group of collieries, care should be taken that it is in direct telephonic communication with every colliery within its radius by means of a private wire to each. The telephonic line between each colliery and the rescue station should be tested at least once daily and the tests recorded In a b00k at the station. One skilled attendent should be al ways on duty.

;) • e

BEXHILL AMBULANCE BRIGADE.- Sir Thomas Barlow, one of the King's physicians, has sent a letter expressive of his satisfaction at the way one of his patients was conveyed by the Brigade from Bexhill to London. Sir Thomas considers that all of those who have the interest of Bexhill at heart should support such a really valuable local institution as the Ambulance Brigade. It is to be regretted that the Brigade are losing the services of Dr. J. L. Harvey, who is leaving the town. On July 22nd Dr. Harvey was presented with a silver cigar box, suitably engraved, as a small recognition of the services he had rendered to the Brigade. Dr. Skyrm made the presentation, and Dr. Harvey feelingly acknowledged the gift, and the kindly feeling which had prompted it.

August,

19

0 9' -F I RST

T h e Ord e r of the Ho s p ital of St. J o h n of J er u s alem in Eng land.

ANNUAL RI.£PORT.

THE Annual Report of the Order of St. John, just to hand, records a gratifying progress in the several Departments. The Report of the Order itself is as usual full of interest, recounting as it does the appointments and promotions which have been made during the past year, the account of the prtsentation of medals by H.R.H. the Grand Prior, at Marlborough House, and also the outline of a scheme by which it is hoped to be enabled to afford valuable support to the Territorial Army, by the formation of a Women's First Aid Service, which in case of invasion would form a valuable auxiliary to the Territorial Nursing Service. The Report of the British Ophthalmic Hospital is a splendid testimony to the value of the work so ably carried out under the supervision of Dr. Cant. It is, we believe, generally known that among the, diseases from which the inhabitants of Eastern countnes suffer, ophthalmia, may be justly regarded as one of the worst, and one of the most prevalent. It was with the view of mitigating and alleviating the sufferings of these poor people, that the late Sir Edmund Lechmere, one of the noblest Knights who ever wore the Hospitallers' Badge, first founded this Hospice in a land which must be for ever associated with the most cherished traditions of the Order of St. John. Much good work has been done since the foundation of the Hospital, but funds are badly needed to enable the Committee to carryon and extend its sphere of usefulness. We quite believe that, if the claims of the Institution were more often pressed, that, not only members of the Order, but others, students of sacred history and followers of the Great Physician, would welcome the opportunity to do something for the people of the land in which He lived and laboured and loved so well.

We note with pleasure that many units of the St. John Ambulance Brigade have not been <:f its .claims, and we trust that others in the future, beanng 111 mmd the good work it is doing, will come and lend a ing hand. Might we also offer a suggestlOn to Secretanes ?f Centres and Classes, that when remitting the of then indebtedness to St. John's Gate, they should Include a small amount for the British Ophthalmic Hospital. These amounts might be credited to a special fund to be called "The Lechmere Fund" in recognition of the unselfish labours of Sir Edmund on behalf of the Ambulance Movement in its early days.

The Report of the Ambulance Department is full of interest, showing the progress been, mad.e both in this country and abroad. Speclally mterestmg IS the very full account of the work in connection with the Lancashire Constabulary.

Reference is made to the withdrawal of the ASSOCIation from Scotland, and a very natural expressioI} of occurs, when referring to the fact, that in so dOIng, It WIll lose the co-operation of the valued and able at its Scottish centres and branches, whose zealous servIces for so many years past have been of such great advantage to the Order.

Attention is drawn to the gratifying progress ambulance work is making in the colliery districts, du<=: In many instances, as the Report points out, to the of am bulance competitions. The reports of the vanous

I D.-

local centres which are incorporated, are also interesting as showing the valuable services rendered by the honorary secretaries and other members of the local committees. The only point to which exception might be taken is the inclusion in this part of the report of the balance sheets of certain units of the Brigade. We think these should appear in the report of the Chief Commissioner. If this were done it might add some little interest to a perusal of this part of the report, which is sadly lacking now, for when one has read the report of the Chief Commissioner and those of the Deputy-Commissioners you have read all that is of interest, the reports of the several units being practically a repetition of the following bald facts:Decrease since last report, I drills held, 30; average attendance, 13 annual inspection, 26 / 6/ 08, total on parade, 20; absent with leave. 3 absent without leave,s j annual re-examination, members passed, 16 ; did not appear,s; medallions, 6 service badges, 3 regulation uniform worn by 2 officers, I sergeant, 3 corporals, and 12 men material: 2 stretchers, wall box, rug, quantity of bandages, vested in Divisional Committee; Division supported by public contributions.

Now, of what interest are these statistics to anyone other than the various district staffs? There might be some reason for the insertion of the num bers, of each unit, enrolled in either the Royal Naval Auxiliary Sick Berth Reserve, or the Military Home Hospitals Reserve, but these numbers are apparently not available, seeing that they are not given.

We notice that the Colonial Corps and Divisions ' in nearly every instance append a brief report on the year's working. How is it, we wonder, that the Home UllltS do not also give an account of their year's work. It would, we should think, be vastly more ent e rtaining that the mass of uninteresting letterpress which is now presented.

SOl,;THERN MINES' IN SPECTION DISTRICT AIIIB ULANCE LEAGUE.- In connection with this leagLe only three Cornis-h teams entered for the preliminary contest which took place at Cam borne. Dr. C. R. Browne acted as ,judg.e and the competition which was keenly contested .was eventually won by Dolcoath with 72 points out of a pOSSIble 100.

• E

SHREW SBURY. - The No. I Division of this Corps went under canvas at Pontes bury Hill from July 3 1st to August 3rd. Supt. Bowdler was and t?e men had a good time. A useful series of dnlls were mdulged in daily. The catering was entrusted to the capable hands of Mrs. Pugh. of the New and gave every satisfaction. On :Monday a smokmg concert was held and much appreciated.

• E

THE RATS REVENGE.-Mrs. Jonssens, the wife of a farmer, of Hindeveld, Belgium, having a nest of rats in an old straw basket, threw the lot the yard. In order to destroy the rodents a servant It on fi:e. The rats, however, made their escape, carrymg away, WIth them pieces of the burning straw, and took refuge m a forage store, which very shortly burst into flames. , The fi:e . ed the farmhouse and three neighbOUring habitatIOns, gam h d all of which were totally destroyed. ThIS, story IS vouc e for as having been received through a source. It does not emanate from America, although It appears to be a trifle tall !

Brevities.

MAY We once more ask our various correspondents, when sending on items of interest, to send on brief, pithy reports, rather than local newspaper reports, the greater portion of which is absolutely devoid of interest to anyone not connected with the district. We endea.vour, as far as possible, to make (airly interesting copy in a condensed form, but it does doubtless happen that at times we leave out matter which our correspondents specially desired we should notice.

* * *

AMBULANCE matters in Colchester appear to be in a somewhat unsettled state. From what can be gathered from the particulars which have been supplied to us, it appears that some two years ago, mainly through the action of Messrs. Bellchambers and Chatfield, of the Great E9.stern Railway Ambulance Corps, a handsome challenge cup was obtained by public subscription, and presented to the Corporation for public competition. Since the cup was handed over no attempt has been made to arrange a competition, and the promoters are naturally indignant at the cavalier way in which the matter has been treated. A meeting was recently held under the presidency of Mr. Bellchambers, at which a committee was formed to approach the Corporation, with a view to seeing if it is not possible to arrange a competition at an early date. As one of the speakers said at the meeting, they had been waiting and waiting until he was tired of waiting any longer. We do not of Gourse know who is responsible for the delay, but we certainly think it is showing a decided lack of courtesy towards the gentlemen by whose voluntary eff:)rts the trophy was acquired.

* * *

IT would appear that this is not the only trouble in Colchester ambulance circles. A short time since, a successful effort was made to form a Division of the St. John Ambulance Brigade. No sooner, however, has it received recognition, not only from the authorities in London, but also from the citizens of Colchester, than some ill-advised people endeavour to form a local centre of the Association. We do not say that such a centre is not wanted, we do not say that it might not be possible, at a later date, to work both centre and division harmoniously together, but we do say that to endeavour to rush the centre while the division was endeavouring to raise funds for the purpose of equipping its members was, to say the least, not only illadvised, but in some circles would be characterised by less complimentary terms. We do not know who was responsible for such regrettable action, but we were sorry to hear that a member of the Central Executive Committee lent his influence in favour of the formation of a centre. In small communities any movement which is not in itself united, stands but a poor chance of securing either public recognition or support. Given a reasonable time to put

the division on a firm basis, and we believe that the promoters would have realised that a centre would prove of advantage to the cause, inasmuch as it would form the classes from which the division would be recruited, and in addition could materially help in the matter of finance but the policy of trying to push the centre to the front to the detriment of the division was a scheme calculated to wreck both. It having been decided to postpone the formation of a centre for a short period, the officers of the division should hurry up and complete the equipment of their members, and then prepare to lend whole-hearted support in the formation of a centre, which, provided a strong representative committee is selected, can only prove of assist-ince to the brigade.

WE regret to learn that ambulance work amongst the mining classes in Cornwall does not make that progress that it does in the North of England or in Wales. Why is it, we wonder? At a recent competition for a handsome challenge cup, three teams only faced the judge. In an interview with a pressman, Mr. G. L. Robinson, H .M. Inspector of Mines, said that while he regretted so few teams had ent<.;red for the recent competition, those that had entered had shown a distinct advance in ambulance knowledge upon last year's competition. He was hopeful of better results next year, as several mining officials had promised to start classes of not less than twenty men. The recent compttition was very keen, and proved very interesting to the large number of miners assembled to watch it. By securing the interest and co-operation of the mine managers and the officials of departments, he hoped to still further stimulate the interest in ambulance work. We would suggest to Mr. Robinson that he should call a meeting of the mining representatives, both of the official and the working classes. If he could secure the presence of Sir Richard Temple, Deputy Chairman of the Association, to address the meeting, we believe it would materially strengthen his hands. Sir Richard has given evidence of the interest he takes in those engaged in the mining industry, and his genuine and unaffected style, at once renders him popular amongst a class which is capable only of being convinced if tackled in the right manner.

***

THE following appeared in the Mortling Advertiser of August tho With the views expressed therein we are quite in accord, and we sincerely trust that the measure proposed by the Hon. W. Peel will be adopted by Parliament. "It is generally admitted that London, outside the City, which is well provided for, requires an organised am bulance system. For that purpose two Bills, one entitled the Ambulances (Metropolis) Bill and the other the Metropolitan Ambulance Bill, have now been introduced into Parliament. The two proposed measures are very much alike, and yet most amusingly unlike. For

August, 1909. -FIRST

they represent respectively the views of the Municipal Reform majority upon the London County Council and those of the Progressive majority. The difference is most characterIstlc. The Reform measure, for which the Hon. W. Peel, M.P. is responsible, proposes that the Metropolitan Asylums Board shall be responsible for the ambulance service of London. The Progressive Bill, brought forward by Sir W. Collins, proposes to add this to the numerous other duties of the County Council itself. For the Reform proposal may be cited the report of a Departmental Committee, which sat upon the question, and also the fact that the Asylums Board already controls an ambulance service for infectious diseases, and for that purpose has telephonic communication with the whole of the metropolis. For the Progressive measure there is nothing to be said except that every service, of whatsoever kind, should be discharged by the County Council. As to which plan would work best for efficiency there cannot ue much doub t The Progressives hold that you have only to give the County Council enormous powers to create an efficient body. The weekly agenda of the Council will show how far this object has been achieved. On the other hand, the Reform party believe in the division of labour and decentralisation. The one is swollen-headed, the other clear-headed."

THE speakers at the recent competition for the " Argenta" trophy at Blackpool were unanimously in favour of the value of these contests as a medium for promoting higher efficiency. Th e Deputy-C ommissioner, Col. Trimble, eM.G., said, "They had a record number of entries this year, which was exactly the lines a competition should go on. Each year should bring into the field fresh competitors, and by that means they would evince to the donors of that handsome trophy how much they appreciated their generosity. The brigade in No. 4 District did progress every year in a smart soldier-like way, and it was exactly what they had to do. After many years of sweat and blood the NO.4 District had won th e blue ribband of ambulance work in and brought to the northern atmosphere of Lancashire the 'Dewar' shield." The Assistant-Commissioner, 1\1r. Derham, said, "These competitions, to his mind, were an excellent medium for promoting efficiency in am bulance work. If it was not for the handsome prizes which were given for ambulan s e work these contests could not take place, and proficiency would not, he was sure, be so high as it wa s at the present time." Col. Watson said, "They could not all obtain prizes, but they could all take this home: that everyone of them had at least the respect of everyone who had seen them at their work. Anyone who gave their time as they must have done to attain their present high state of efficiency, should have the esteem of all who knew th em. He considered that every scholar in every school should be compelled to go through a course of ambulance training at lea st once a

AI D.-

month during the last two years they were at school. It could never do them any harm, and it must do them good. Even the drills would set them up and make them physically fitter."

The Grand Priory of the Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem in England.

Chancery of th e Order, J uly JIst

THE King has been graciously pleased to sanction the following promotions and appointments to the Grand Priory of the Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem in England.

As Knights of Gra ce

Fred Hibbert Westmacott, Esq , F.R.eS. (from Honorary Associate).

Joseph Robert Heape, Esq. (from Honorary Associate ).

As Es qu ire.

Robert Mitchell, Esq (from Honorary Associate).

BELFAST.-At the quarterly meeting of the Corporation held on August 3rd, two youths- Jack M'Clure and Robert Reid-were presented with the Medal of the Order of St. John for conspicuous gallantry in saving life. The incident which led to the presentation took place last Christmas at Lurgan Station, when a man was saved from being killed by a train by the heroism of the two lads. Theman was discovered lying across the rails just as a train was coming into the station, and M'Clure and Reid jumped on to the line, seized the man, and placed him on the platform just in the nick of time. The slightest slip on the part of the r escuers would have meant death to all three. They were warmly praised for their gallantry by all who witnessed the occurrence.

In presenting the medals to the rer:ipients, the LO.rd Mayor said His Royal Highness had taken a spec.lal interest in the matter, and had sent the medals to him With the request that -he would hand them over to the young men. He (the Lord Mayor) was highly gratified to know that they had young men amongst them capable of performing such noble deeds. They had risked the ir lives, and their conduct had b ee n most gallant. His Lordship then handed the medals to the recipients amidst loud applause.

Councillor M'Clure (father of one of the lads) returned thanks on their behalf. He said he appreciated very highly the great kindness of the Lord Mayor in bringing the case before the Order which had presented the medals, and with which the Prince of Wales was connected. But for the action of his Lordship the conduct of these young men, like many similar deeds, would never have been before the public. The recipients were very grateful to ,hiS Lordship for his kindly action in the matter, he self prized very highly the fact that they had risked their lives to save the life of a fellowman.

When corresponding with Advertisers please mention "First Aid."

L. & YR.-The annual general meeting of the Liverpool Goods Division of the above Centre was held at Gt. Howard-street Station, on Saturday evening, July loth. W. J. Carmichael, Esq., District Goods Supt., presided, supported by several of the local officials.

The reports of the secretary and treasurer showed the division to be in a very sound condition. During the year two classes had been held, Dr. Paddock, of BootIe, being the lecturer; 73 men passed the examination, and 4 failed.

It will be remem bered that a team from this Centre, viz., North Mersey, has twice won the handsonJe challenge shield, presented by the Order of St. John for annual competition by the ambulance teams from the various railways in England and Wales, and the same team has for the past four years held the Silver Shield presented by the directors of the Company for annual competition.

The chairman, after presenting certificates, medallions and labels to the men who passed during the year, spoke of the advantages of acquiring a knowledge of "first aid to the injured," and encouraged the men in a few wellchosen words to continu e with enthusiasm the work they had adopted.

The following officers were elected for the ensuing year :-President, W. J. Carmichael, Esq.; Vice-presidents, Messrs. Rouse and Windle Hon. Treasurer, Mr. J. A. Gaukrodger; Hon. Secretary, Mr. G. J. Tucker Committee: Messrs. Robinson, Griffiths, Matthewman, Ayrton and Savage.

The usu al vote of thanks terminated the proceedings.

N.E.R. - The Annual Report of this Railway Centre, which is just to hand, shows that interest is still maintained by the employes of the Company in this a11important subject. During the past year 55 classes have been formed in connection with the several districts into which the centre is divided. The number of passes since the last Report is as follows :-

First aid, 3 16; first re-examination for voucher, 2 second re-examination fur medallion, 167; labels, 197 ; and since the formation of the Centre in 1895 there have been issu ed 6, I [5 certificates, vouchers, 2,472 medallions, and 589 labels.

During last year we learn that first aid was rendered in no less than 17,778 cases of accident, making a total of 147,240 since January, 1896.

The usual competitions have been held in connection with the several districts, and thanks are expressed to the medical staff of the Centre, who, as in previous years, rendered valuable assistance by acting as judges throughout the competitions. The reports presented by these gentlemen are .as not only of an interesting nature, but also of an instru c tIve character, particularly so is that of Dr. Pickersgill, of Sherburn-in-Elmet.

now for just one word of criticism. On carefully perusing the several sets of questions, tests, etc., it appeared

A I D.- August, 1909.

thatsome judges, when framing their programme, were much more leniently inclined than others. This, to our mind, is scarcely fair; all teams should be required to answer auestions and deal with tests which are of equal merit: It would be better, we should think, that the same programme should be arranged for all teams in the preliminary competitions, and better still that the same pair of judges should adjudicate throughout the preliminary contests. We submit this criticism in all good faith and not with any desire of fault finding, for doubtless the Centre Committee may have some good reason for the present system.

The medical men who carried out the onerous duties of judging, and they are onerous, are unahimous in their appreciation of the valuable assistance which they one and all received at the hands of the popular and hard-working General Secretary. We fully believe the commendation to be thorough ly deserved, for Mr. Jackson's heart is in his work, and his knowledge of organisation is such as to ensure that no detail, ei th er as regards accommodation or hospitality, shall be lacking, which will tend to lessen the tedium of the judges' task.

The names of employes who have gained either the medallion or the certificate, presented by the Company, for meritorious first aid, are given, with a brief account of the act for which the recipient earned the distinction.

In concluding his opening remarks, Mr. A. Kaye Butterworth, the President of the Centre, makes an earnest appeal for larger numbers to join the classes.

S.E. & C. Rv.-A large number of people assembled at the Longhedge Works of this Company on Saturday, July 17th, to witness the annual ambulance and fire brigade demonstration. In the absence of Mr. F. C. Cox. chairman of the Ambulance Centre, Dr. Carvell presided, and among those present was the popular veteran director, Sir E. Leigh-Pemberton, K.C.B., D L. (founder of the Longhedge Fire Brigade), who was accompanied by Miss Maude Leigh-Pemberton (President, Longhedge Fire Brigade).

The programme, which was of a varied and interesting character, was followed with keen interest by the large number of spectators present. The first part consisted of an inspection of the Battersea ambulance railway van, equipment and staff; this was followed by a display of some exceedingly smart ambulance work by teams from Hither Green, Stewart's-lane, Victoria, and Charing-Cross guards. The work was carried out with a skill and precision which gave ample evidence of the thoroughness of the instruction impartpd under the auspices of the Centre.

Part 2 of the programme was devoted to the combined display by the 4th Clapham Troop of Boy Scouts and the 36th London Company Boys' Brigade (High-street Wesleyan Church), under the respective commands of Scout-Master Mr. A. Probert and Capt. Jones. During the display the musical portion of the programme was furnished by the drummers and pipers of the 89th London Company, Boys' Brigade (Trinit) Hall Presbyterian Church of England), under Bandmaster Swanson, and the brass band of the 36th Company.

The third part of the programme consisted of the inspection of the Longhedge Works Fire Brigade by Capt. H. Miller (Chairman, London Private Brigades' Assoc iation), who was accompanied by Mr. Chandler Haswell (secretary).

The men having been drawn up in line, Capt. Miller, who was accompanied by the President (Miss Leigh-Pemberton) made a careful inspection of men a nd equipment. Then followed a pretty little ceremony, the p:esentation oi

August, 1909. -FIRST

a handsome basket of carnations and mignonette to Miss Leigh-Pemberton on behalf of the Brigarle. Then came the fire brigade items-A very smart hose cart drill by Mallery, Skilton, Edmonds and Ansty; one man hydrant drill by Cummins and Palin two men hydrant drill by Lass and Turner and Palin and Sessions three men hydrant drill by Ansty, Skilton and Mallery four men with breeching piece by Cooper, Sherrell, Johnson and Turner.

Then in turn rescue drill followed by a displ a y with the manual engine in which all the members of the brigade took part und er the direction of Chief Officer Banksand and 2nd Officer Trimlett. The programme concluded with a march past by the Boy Scouts, the Boys' Brigade and the firemen-a very effective finish to a c1.pital display.

At the conclusion, Dr. Wood, who had inspected the ambu lance work, spoke in terms of high commendation of the skilful way in which the men had rendered first aid.

Dr. Woods had also a word of com mendation for th e " laddies" (Boys' Brigade and Boy Scouts) on thc: way in which they had carried out their part of the programme.

Chief Officer Banks expressed his satisfaction at the way the men had done their work that afternoon. With reference to ambulance work, Mr. Banks described it as one of the noblest they could go in for. He hoped that the boys he now saw before him would continue the good work they had begun, and eventually qualify to take the places of toose who had preceded them.

Capt. Miller, in a eulogistic speech expressed his pleasure at all he had witnessed that afternoon. The fire drills were all very smartly executed, and the men at all times prompt in getting to work. He was satisfied that should occasion arise, owing to [he outbreak of fire, they would give a good account of th em selves. Three hearty cheers having been given for Sir E. Leigh -Pem berton and Miss Leigh -Pe mberton the proceedings were brought to a close with the playing of the National Anthem by. the Ashford Works Band, which had also p)ayed selectIOns during the afternoon.

A keenly interested spectator of the ambulance dlsplay was Supt. Rundell, of the Hospital Saturday Fund Division, S. 1.A.B., who in his official capacity at the H.S.F., is fully conversant with the good work done by the Longhedge ambulance men.

The arrangements, which were excellent, were carried out by the following stewards :-Messrs. Allen, Worthy, Cramp, Gollop, Rushton, Godfrey, Covington, Girling and Chalkley.

A demonstration of ambulance work was also given on the occasion of the presentation of certificates to the Gravesend class on the 22nd ult. E. C. Cox, Esq., the Chairman of the Committee presided a nd H. H. Hayter, Esq., the London District Superintendent, distrihuted the various awards.

On the 27th ult., the Mayor of Dover presented the awards to the members of the Dover classes at a full Council Meeting and expressed his pleasure at so many of the railwaym en in the district taking up the work. He also presented medals to the Class Secretary, Mr. F. Woodhams, and to Mr. T. Jones as an acknowledgment of th eir untiring e fforts for the succ es s of the class.

We have been favoured with an advance copy of the Annual Report of this Centre for and learn th e refrom that during the year 360 first aid certIficates have been issued, 217 vouchers, 185 medallions and 4 80 labels. This compares with 274 certificates, 201 vouchers, 257 medallions and 302 labels issued for the year 1908 and, as

AI D.-

will be seen, shows a very gratifying increase in the number of men taking up the first aid work on this railway. In the Competitions, no than 97 teams competed as against 79 in 1908, a figure, we should say, unsurpassed by any other railway company

The Directors of tIle Company hav e shown their continued interest in th e work by increasing the amount of the prizes in the various groups for 1910, and instituting what is referred to as a "Beginners" Group. In this group prizes will be offered to teams competing, the me mbers of which have never previously entered a competition. This of cours e, that those inexperienced in competition work will be competing against others similarly inexperienced. It has often appeared to us that new teams were at a considerable disadvantage when competing against teams who have perhaps been at it for years, but this group compp.tition will do away with this inequality and must, we should say, prove a stimulus to the staff to take up the competition work-and after all said and done, what better means can there be for ensuring grea ter tfficiency of the mem bers than to induce th em to enter for competitions. Additional practice must result and the efficiency of the members automatically follows.

G.N R. A D G.N. & L. & N. W. J OINT.--The challenge shield open for competition amongst the mem bers of the staff of the Great N o rth e rn (Western Division) and the Great Northern and London and North Western Joint Railways took place at Nottingham in the Great Northern Engineer Department, on Saturday, July 24th. Dr. Lundy, of Smalley, was the judge, and six teams submitted their skill to his impartial judgment, viz., Derby (G.N ), Iottingham (L. & N. \Y.), Colwick (L. & N. W. and G.N. ), Bingham and Leicester (G.N.)

The examination, both oral and practical, was of a particularly searching character, and at the conclusion the Bingham team was awarded premler honours , Derby, last year's winners, being the runners-up.

Dr. Lundy afterwards addressed to the several competing teams a few trenchant words of both commendation and caution, in the latter sense he advised them not to exercise too much deliberation in getting to work. They made the common mista:.:e that most of th ose did who engaged in these competitions, they treated their patient as though he we re a doll or some inan.iI?ate object instead of a human being who re q uired expedItIOUS, as well as careful and skilful, attention.

Mrs. A. J. Grinling, the wife of the popular District Engineer, G.N.R., handed the shield to the captain of the winning team, and also presented cases of cutlery to the members of the team, and cruets to the runners-up.

a meeting of the Glamorgan County Centre held last month, it was proposed by Dr. Wallace that the name of Mr. William McKen7.ie, Chief Constable of Cardiff, be submitted to the Chapter of the Order of St. John for some recognition of his long and service on behalf of the St. John Ambulance AssoClatlOn and Brigade He knew of no one, said who was more e ntitl ed to receive some dlstlOctlon th a n Mr. McKenzie. The proposition was duly seconded, an d carried with acclamation. We are sure that all who have come in contact with Mr. McKen zie in connection lVith am bulance work will endorse the committee's resolution His enthusiasm for the cause is only exceeded by his capacity for hard work on its behalf.

The Private Fire Brigade of Messrs. DeIhaize Freres, Brussels.

THE value of Private Fire Brigades as a "first aid" corps for fire extinction has long been recognised in this country, but the idea has never been generally adopted abroad. In Belguim, however, there is a corps of "first aid" fire fighters which may justly claim to be equal from every point of view, to the crack brigades of the Private Fire

AI D.- August, 19°9.

about fifteen acres, constituting a large town and industry which is unique in BeJguim, and the diversity of articles which are manufactured by this firm are equally unique.

Included in the premises are nineteen factories in which the following articles are prociuced :-Chocolate, biscuits, sugar, vinegar, mustard, perfumery, and many other similar commodities. Having in view the risk entailed owing to the large number of buildings required, and the various manufactures carried on therein, the Directors deemed it necessary that they should take every precaution, by the installation of fire appliances, and by

ILLUSTRATION SHOWING THE CHIEF OFFICERS OF THE B"RlGADE, EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR OF THE STATION, AND ONE OF THE HYDRANTS

Brigade Service, to be found in this country. We have pleasure in presenting an account of the Fire Brigade of Messrs. Delhaize, Manufacturing Confectioners of Brussels, and we feel St!re those of our readers who belong to the Private Fire Service in this country will be interested to learn how their Belgian c01ifreres carry out their duties in that country.

In .order to meet d.ang er successfully, it is necessary t? study, prOVIde and prevent, by making prelImmary arrangements.

The principal establishment of Messrs. Delhaize Freres is situated at Brussels, and occupies an area of

the organising and equipping of a works fire brigade on modern and up-to-date lines. Like all well-organised corps of this description the service is divided into two distinct parts-fire prevention and fire extinction.

Commandant Welch, who is justly recognised as a leading authority on all matters appertaining to fire prevention and extinction, rightly argues that fire prevention and fire fighting should stand in the same relationship to each other as hygiene does to medicine. When the hygienic methods are rigourously enforced, epidemics are reduced to a minimum, in an equal manner when a fire brigade adopts preventive measures, the risks of extensive

August, 1909.

-FIRST

conflagrations are minimised. In connection with the factory of Messrs. Delhaize, the first preventive measures to be observed are the rigid exclusion of all combustible materials, as far as pOSSIble, in building; sufficient spac e between each building. Iron fire escapes are affixed to the outside walls of the various buildings, and provide a ready means of escape from the interior. Another pre-

also the sole control of the lighting. The lighting of matches within the buildings, under any pretext whatever, is strictly forbidden, and special precautions are taken to ensure that this rule is 110t infringed. The principal officers keep a constant su pervision over the fires, and see that the doors of each furnace are hermetically closed; that the stoves are never over heated ; that no rubbish or other inflammable material is allowed to accumulate in close proximity to the fires. Each stove for the heating of the building is enclosed within a fire -g uard, and all gasmeters are placed in a pavilion, specially isolated and well ventilated. In order that there may be no excuse for the non-observance of the regulations laid down, a large notice, prominently displayed, is placed at each entrance to the factory, and the penalties which will be incurred by non -compliance are stated against each clause. But how e ver perfect preventive measures may be, they would be wholly inadequate should a fire break out and the fire brigade be not promptly on the scene; for a fire soon spreads, and once it has go t a hold it may be well nigh impossible to master it, until it has developed serious proportions; hence the necessity of having a well-trained and thoroughly organised fire brigade at hand, rather than rely on the services of untrained volunteers which might be hurriedly improvised at the moment of the outbreak.

FIRE EXTINCTION.

Messrs. Delhai ze' s Fire Brigade was formed in 1893, its personnel is fixed at sixty men, eight of whom are professional firemen, the others being either masons, carpenters, plumbers, and painters, who chosen for their adaptability to mount ladders and theIr knowledge of building construction. For purposes Brigade is under the control of a Chief Officer, IS assisted by two lieutenants. The petty officers consist of seven sergeants, two mechanics, and eight corporals, while attached to it are four ambulance men of the Red Cross of Belgium.

caution which has been ado[Jted, the importance of which cannot be overrated, is that a road runs round each warehouse, the object of this is that It IS to completely isolate each building, added to whIch It gIves easy access to the fire brigade in case of A code of excellent rules has been drawn up and IS rigidly enforced. Plumbers and are forbidden to ascend to the roofs wIth their soldering fires exposed. is also expressly forbidden, not only m the buildings, but also in the avenues and roads within the factory walls, and the porters at each entrance are strictly enjoined to see that this rule is not transgressed. Each evening immediately after the work-people have quitted the and the fires and lights have been extmgUlshed, the ?fficers make a most minute and complete mspec · tion of the various parts of the factory under their individual supervision, and each one ({ signs a book certifying that they found all correct.

Owing to the large num ber of fires and furnaces located in the different parts of the factory, a special detachment of mer:, selected on account of their trustworthmess, are detailed to extinguish them, and they have

In order to give erlcouragement to the men a number of prizes are awarded each year by the Directors, and these are presented at the annual din!ler of the Brigade. With regard to plant and eqUlPo:e nt, hydrants are placed in every building., With fire hose and extincteurs while at the Fire Station are to be found :-A hose cart, 'carrying 300 ft. of rubb er lined hose, together

WORKING DRESS UNIFORM.

THE "SHAND MASON" STEAl\IER.

ONE OF THE HOSE CARTS.

with branches, pompier ladder, and smoke helmet a second hose cart also carrying 300 ft. of hose and a smoke-mask a mechanical 50 ft. fire escape a hand pump, capable of pumping 50 gallons a minute, and which carries various accessories also a Shand & Mason steamer, and a wheeled ambulance litter.

In our next issue we hope to give further particulars relating to this brigade.

British Fire Prevention Committee.

TI-IE Committee concluded its summer session the two of testing operations, one reto the. all-Important subject of the possibility of makmg flannelette permanently non-inand. the. other. relating to types of cheml.cal fire. extIngUIshers In which the necessary force IS obtamable by the external application of small chemical charges easily open to inspection.

The tests were conducted in accordance with the usual procedure of the British Fire Prevention and the members were received by Mr. EdWIn O. Sachs, F.R.S.Ed. (Chairman) Sir James Williamson, C.B., Mr. W. T. M.Inst.C.E., and other members of Council.

The tests with the extinguishers were conduct.ed by a Sub-Committee of which Mr. Percy Colhns, J.P., was the directing member. The fl.mnelette tests were conducted by a Sub-Committee of which Mr. Ellis Marsland (District Surveyor) was the directing member.

t ests were a series dealing with ISO different specImens of material of different treated untreated, and washed and for a varyIng number of times up to twenty times.

The usual official illustrated reports will be Issued shortly by the Committee dealing with the results of the tests.

August, 1909

Books Received.

Health R e'ZJie'lv for July containing artIcles .on food reform. Published by Bntlsh Health ReVIew Co., 21, Paternster-square, E.e.

Catalogue of H. K. Lewis's Medical and Scientific Circulating Library. This list will be sent post free to any address on application to H. K. Lewis, 138, Gower -street, W.e.

Constitution of the First Aid Nursing Yeomanry Corps ( Pamphlet ) The Headquarters of the Corps are at 118 and 122, Holborn, E.C., where further particulars may be obtained.

We have received from the British Fire Prevention Committee a copy of their No. T4 T Report, which we shall review next month.

August 1909. -FIRST

A I D.-

the St. John Ambulance book it shows the bearers on the left side and one on the. right, the on the right. what I deSIre to know IS, should the injury be on the left SIde, would the bearers be revnsed?

Please let me know in you r next issue, and oblige,Vours truly, " F. A." READER.

[We believe there is now no hard and fast rule. The bearers" take post " on the side most likely to ensurp. the comfort of the patient. -EDITOR" F.A."

We are in no way responsible jor the opinions expressed, or the statements made, by Correspondents.-EDITORS.

THE PRESENT CAP.

DEAR SIR,-Your correspondents' letters with reference to the caps worn by members of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, worthy of.consideration. The cap is an important part of a unIform, and It frequently happens that caps are made of most unsuitable materials and of unsuitable design I quite that Territorial.peak cap is a good patternIt has two dlStlOCt advantages, If properly made of proofed material: it is waterproof, and the peak forms a very useful protection for the eyes.

It should be made of a light weight cloth, proofed, and a white co.ver for the sun, it does not require a black cover, as the cap IS really waterploof. The style should be black with a white piping round the crown. The bell top or fatigue caps are not at all suitable when there is any lifting to be done, and very few men look well in eIther shape.- Yours truly, F. HESS.

DEAR SIR,-I have read, with much interest, the various letters which have appeared at different times as to the brigade caps, and which, in my opinion, are most unsuitable, and are not smart.

During the summer the men in my division invariably complain of headache, after being on duty for any length of time in the sun; ann in the winter, in wet weather, the rain runs off the cap and down the neck, and, at the least, causes the wearer to feel most uncomfortable, if nothing worse.

The cap suggested by Messrs. Scott and Pettett seems most servi ceable, and would also look smart.

I do hope that headquarters will, at an early date, go into this matter, and issue a pattern cap, similar to what has already been suggested, and by so doing they would, I am sure, earn the grateful thanks of a very large majority of officers and men in the brigade, who are at the present time experiencing much discomfort, and which could he avoided.

I enclose my carel.-Yours faithfully, A SUPERINTENDENT.

DEAR SIR,-I am sure by his letter in the June number of FIRST Am, "East Anglia" will have the support of many divisions respecting the new type of cap. I may say that the members of the local corps here have also been discussing the question long before the Felixstowe Camp, and although unfortunately I was not able to partake in the pleasures by the sea during Whit week, yet I feel the time has arrived ""hen a smarter cap should be worn by the ambulance men.

The caps at present in are heavy and awkward, and make one feel and look like a second-rate bandsman (with all due respect to our mus.ical friends ) and the cap shows up the men more than what one would think, and I feel sure that you will earn the gratitude of S.J.A.B. men if you can further the movement and obtain permission for us to wear the new staff hats.

Thanking you for inserting this,- Yours truly, " RUGBEIAN."

WHICH SIDE OF A PATIENT SHOULD THE BEARERS DE?

DEAR SIR, - May I ask, through your columns, a question as to which side of a patient the men should be placed, as in

DO COMPETITIONS PROMOTE OR RETARD THE PROGRESS OF AMBULANCE WORK?

DEAR SIR,- I was pleased to read your article in the June .of FIRST AID. It, quite correct say, the provIsIon of 1\mbulance ShIelds for comp etItIOn 10 the m1010g centres has gIven a great stimulus to ambulance work in those districts. Take the case of South and \Vest Yorkshire the provis.ion of the Mines' Inspection Shield, every now carnes on an class. The pits in this dIstrIct are only about one or two mile s apart, and there is a healthy rivalry between each pit as to which can turn out the best men each year. In the surrounding nei g hbourhood of Barnsley the villages are very thick, and it may interest some of your readers to know that eac h village has an annual feast, and on Feast Sunday a processIOn takes place which is taken part in by the various organisations of the locality. Along the route taken by the procession a collection is made, the proceeds of which are handed over to the Governors of the Beckett Hospital. Last year the sum obtained by these means exceeded two-thousand pounds.

Recently, the ambulance men in each village have competed, as to which can make the best turn-out in these processions. Mr. John Buckle, under-manager of the Monckton Main Colliery, who t.akes a great interest in ambulance work, recently offered a prize to the most sllccessful ambulance team in this contest. The way it is carried out is something like this : - On the hold ing of the first feast in the calendar, the whole of the am bulance men from the various villages make a point of being present to see what sort of a "turn-out " the local men are making, and should the first set of men decorate a hospital cot. then each set of men right through the summer shows a hospital cot, although they gradually become more elaborate and more highly decorated.

The winners in this year's competition struck out on quite an original line. They decided to ha ve something connected with ambulance work, and to give a representation of something which oc c urs almost every day n th is locality. Their tableau took the form of a colliery accident, showing how a miner having met ,,"ith an accident, first aid was rendered to him, and how he was conveyed to the shaft bottom. On the floor of the wagon on which the scene was set, a tram-line was laid, and pieces of coal and a mass of ciebris laying about. Props and bars were set to support the roof. In the centre of the wClgon the ambul:mce ca rriage was placed. This is a little carriage on springs, and you can run it to any part of the workings along which the a.re laid. I.t i.s so constructed that the stretcher, WIth the patIent upon It, IS secured by the pole at each corner of the carriage. Even with the p::ttient upon it the whole apparatus does not stand more than 2 ft. in height. You will readily understand how importa nt this point is in low workings. I n the tableau a patient neatly bandaged was pla ceci upon the stretcher, four men stood, one at each corner of the carriage, as though pushing it along, the remainder of tbe men walked on either side of the WClgOI1some with picks, and some with shovels carried over the shoulder, each man carrying also his lamp.

It was Sunday afternoon, and every man was dressed In his working clothes. They had given up their Saturday afternoon to preparing and the scene on the wagon, and they willingly sacrificed theIr Sunday to take part in the procession in aid of the call of chanty.

I enclose a photograph of the tableau, and if you can see your way to insert it in your next. number we s!lould. be grateful, and I believe it would materially help the cIrculatIOn of FIRST Am in this neighbourhood.

THE BRIGADE AT ESCAPE DRILL.

-FIRST

I have been connected with ambulance work for more than ten years, but I had never heard of y<?ur Journal until January of this year, .since then I. have m the Journal regularly, and shown It to others Jl1 the Yillage. Our newsagent, now tells me that he sells thirty copies each month. There are twelve o'r fourteen villages where it is not known. Shou ld you reproduce the photograph, I shall take extra with the intention of sending them to men who I know wIll not be bashful in showing it round, and the result will I hope be a great increase in your circulation in this district.

I think the time is not far distant when the ambulance men in the surrounding villages will join together and forn: a Miners' Brigade. All we want is a few !)lore gentlemen like Mr. Buckle to take an interest in us.

Apologising for the length of this letter.- Believe me, your's respectfully, ECCLE S, Class Instructor.

[WE do not know which District of the Brigade is situated but we would suggest to the Deputy-CommIssIoner that here 'is fruitful soil worth working. Why not interview some of the mine owners, and ask them to assist financially. Mr. Buckle would, doubtless, lend assistance. At any rate, the suggestion is worth following up. We we unable, owing to the limited amount of space avaIlable, to Insert the photograph mention in Mr. Eccles's letter.-ED. "F.A."J

Royalty at St. John's Church.

IT has always been a matter for congratulation that the members of the Royal Family have all taken so great an interest in the Order and its several departments, and we are pleased to note that the younger mem bers are also evincing an interest in the Order and its historic headquarters. In last month's issue of The Sig n, the Parish Magazine for St. John, Clerkenwell, appears the following, which will we are sure be of interest to our readers :-

" On June 1 rth, two of the children of the Prince of Wales-the Princess Mary and Prince Henry-visited the church and crypt. The Royal Party was met at the entrance by Sir Herbert Perrott, Bart., c.B., and the Rector, the latter acting as guide, pointing out the architectural features and historical associations of the ancient building. The visitors were much interested in all they saw, and asked many questions on various points, particularly requesting to be shown the beautiful Cope belonging to the church, of which they had heard. By a singular coincidence the date of their visit was exactly seven years after their father, the Prince of Wales, attended service in St. John's Church, viz., on June 11th, I902, when he unveiled the Memorial to the ambulance men who died in South Africa during the war. The small brass plate recording this event, and photographs nf the Prince entering the crypt and leaving the church, were shown to the Royal Children, who were pleased to see their father's name in the church and his portrait in the vestry. After spending an hour here, and signing their names in the visitors' book, the Prince and Princess went to St. John's Gate, over which they were conducted by Sir H. Perrott, who described the building and explained the many objects of interest within its walls."

ST. JOHN BEARER COMPANIES. - The Bristol or "F» ) Bearer Company is undergoing training at the Cambridge Hospital, Aldershot, and every man is doing his best to profit by the instruction given. It is not all work and no play, swimming, cricket and rowing form pleasant recreation when off duty.

Business Items.

BARNET. - The L.G . B. held an inquiry, on August 9th, into an application of the U.D.e. for sanction to borrow money for the purchase of premises for the purposes of a Fire Brigade Station.

FINCHLEY.-The V.D.e. have decided to make application to the L.G.B. for sanction to the borrowing of £'410 for the erection of a Fire Station at East Finchley.

HARRow.-The T.e. are recommended to accept under certain conditions the tender of Messrs. .:vIerryweather & Sons, Ltd., amounting to £895, for the supply of a 53 h.p. petrol motor fire engine capable of delivering 500 gallons of water per minute.

KIRKHAM.- The Council have under consideration plans of the new Fire Engine Station, stables, &c., at an estimated cost of £285.

LUDLOW.-The T. e. have agreed to purchase a steam fire engine, and fit up the Old Butler Cross to receive it at a cost of £500, and to ask the L.G.B. to sanction a loan to cover the expense.

SEAFORD.- The V.D. have decided to purchase additional fire extinguishing appliances.

SHOEBURYNESS.-The V.D.C. have sealed the contract for the erection of the new Public Offices and Fire Station, at a cost of £828.

WEM.-Tne L.G.B. have held an inquiry into the application of the Council for the sanction to a loan for the purchase of a steam fire-engine.

The examination of those members of the Territorial Branch of the St. John Ambulance Association who attended the class in connection with Lady Barry's B Section took place in the Guildhall, Windsor, in the beginning of the month. The examiner was Dr. J. Maclean Carvel. Thirteen candidates presented themselves and eleven passed. Further classes are in contemplation and the Hon. Secretary of the \7'v indsor Branch will be glad to give further particulars.

It is always pleasant to be kindly remembered by friends, the more so by those far away. Capt. Walter Hitchcock, of the Geelong Fire Brigade had a few days ago a pleasant surprise, when he received from his Australian Brigade a photograph of every ufficer and member of the brigade-thirty in all-accompanied by hearty congratulations on his 77th birthday, which was on the 11th inst. A short time since Capt. Hitchcock was elected Honorary Captain of the Brigade, which he joined as a volunteer in 1854. We need hardly say that Capt. Hitchcock appreciates very highly the honour conferred. It is worthy of note that only three of the original members of the brigade, which numbered 64, are now surviving.

The

As it is the wish and desire of the Proprietors to make this Journal as instructive and entertaining as possible, correspondents in all parts of the country are asked to give it all the help they can.

Superintendents of Corps and Officers of Divisions of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, Officers of the Royal Army Medical Corps (Territorials), the Volunteer Ambulance School of Instruction, and Chief Officers of Fire Brigades will, it is hoped, do their best to make it known amongst the members of their respective organisations, and will also send for publica tion their official news and notices. Sugges· tions are invited for Prize Competitions and other matters which will advance the interest of the] ourna!.

We particularly desire to ask our correspondents to be brief and to the point in any communications they may send us for publication.

Correspondents sending in photos are urgently requested to s tate on the back of the same the name of the individual or the Corps or Brigade and give also the name and address of the sender.

We beg to advise our readers that we do not pay for photographs or copy sent, unless previously agreed upon in writing.

and Fire Services.

now held up as the pattern for adoption by its British ally.

EDITORIAL.

" Fi rst Aid" is published on the 20th of the month. British Red Cross Society.

MANY of our readers have written to us asking whether we can tell them what effect the proposed development of Red Cross work is likely to have upon the St. John Am bulance Brigade. Frankly, we cannot. We are given to understand that the proposed service is based upon that of Japan. Well, as our readers know, we some time since described very fully the Japanese Suciety, giving extracts from papers, and reproducing photographs, placp.d at our disposal by a correspondent in Japan. Indeed, we believe we are correct in saying, that we were one of the first-if not the first-British J oumal to publish an account showing how far ahead our Japanese allies were in the matter of Red Cross administration, but there is just this difference between Japan and this country, when the former resolved to adopt the Red Cross Convention, and set to work to enrol people of all classes as voluntary helpers, there was no organisation existing in that country corresponding to our St. John Ambulance Brigade, had there have been, we do not doubt, but that the little yellow man would have made use of the existing organisation, and, by incorporating it with the new order, wou l d have evolved an up-to-date service in even less time, than it took to bring about, the splendid service which is

With the aims of the British Society, as set out in the War Office circular, recently issued, and of which we give extracts, we are to an extent in sympathy. The question of the necessary transport is a most important one, for at the present ti me even in the British Army, transport for the sick and injured is admitted to be most defective, anything therefore, that the Society can do to remedy this deficiency, should be taken in hand at once. The conversion of public buildings and other places into temporary hospitals, well, we do not anticipate there would be any difficulty in arranging this part of the programme. We presume it is only proposed to schedule likely buildings, and then to prepare an inventory of fittings and equipment which would be reqUIred for conversion. The formation of rest stations along lines of evacuation, either by road, rail, or water. The formation of evacuating stations, where si ck and wounded can be classified. All of these proposals are admirable in their way, and on the recognised assumption, that if you desire peace you must be prepared for war, we suppose that it is wise on the part of the Society to have in preparation maps and plans, showing the position of all of these stations, so that in case of invasion there may be no delay in the matter of selection. While admitting these points, we do not desire that our readers should assume that we are in any way desirous of posing as "scaremongers )J any such idea is very far from our thoughts. Personally, we think the idea of the invasion of this country has been a trifle over done, and even the advent of aerial navigation has not, we honestly believe, added one iota to the risk which this country runs from such a calamity.

Although we are not in sympathy with the views of those, who, judging by their conversation, are constantly in fear of the bogey uf invasion, yet we welcome the fact that it has apparently led the British Red Cross to realise, that it has responsibilities in time of peace as well as In time of war. Our readers will remem ber that in the past, we have drawn attention to the large sum of money lying to the credit of the Society. Money, which we argued, should be expended in assisting in the better equipment of our Volunteer Medical Staff Corps and the units of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, and this brings us to the points

-FIRST

wherein we fail to find ourselves in sympathy, with the present scheme of the Bntish Red Cross Society. " The provision of a personnel for accompanying the sick and wounded during conveyance by road or rai1."

So runs the War Office communication, no mention mark you, of the St. John Am bulance Brigade, which, already exists in nearly every hamlet in England and Wales, and whose members are now, after years of training and experience, skilled in all these duties for which the British Red Cross Society are to look around and train men and women. What is to be the lot of the men and women of the St. John Ambulance Brigade? Are they to be disbanded? Supplanted by the new units formed with the aid of the long purse of the British Red Cross Society; a purse, the strings of which have been kept tied so long, that now that they are unloosed, it would aplJear that the former custodians are only concerned, as to the rapidity with which the money may be spent, and that without having first considered, whether the means proposed are such, as would commend them to the philanthropic business man. Is the Society unaware of the existence of the St. John Ambulance Brigade? We can hardly assume that it is ! At any rate the War Office Authorities have cognisance of its existence. They cannot have forgotten, that in the stress of the South African War, the members of the Brigade loyally responded to their call for volunteers, to help them in those days of dark despair! The War Office was proud to hail them as comrades then. Is this the way in which it now shows its gratitude-ignores their very existence when formulating plans for the defence of the country, and entrusts work which, it is admitted, requires a long and special training to unskilled or but partially trained individuals? It ' is very evident that those who believe in the possibility of invasion, reckon that the advent of it is a long way distant, so that they will have plenty of time to train their levies.

The British Red Cross Society.

THE details of the War Office scheme, which is proposed to be worked in conjunction with the British Red Cross Society, for organising voluntary aid for wounded Territorials in case of the invasion of these shores has recently been issued.

It must first of all, says the War Office communication be realised what is involved in the work of removing sick and from fiel? to general hospitals. The duttes connect.ed wlth thls work mclude the following:-

The preparatIOn of country carts and other vehicles for the removal of patients lying down.

Improvising stretchers, etc., for the transport of very severe cases by hand.

'The con.version of country houses, farms, public bUlldlOgs, or, m. fact, whole villages or small towns, into tern porary hospi tals.

Similar utilisation of local resources for the care of tri vial cases.

AI D.- Sept em ber, 1909.

The formation of rear stations along lines of evacuation, either by road, rail, or water.

The formation of evacuating stations at railhead or its vicinity, where sick and wounded can be classified.

The formation of similar stations at points where it may be necessary to re-distribute the sick and wounded from railway stations to hospitals.

The provision of a personnel for accompanying the sick and wounded during conveyance by road or rail.

In approaching the County Associations with a view to carrying out these objects, the War Office suggests that in order to provide a personnel that would be available for any or all of these duties, detachments, which might for convenience be called "Voluntary Aid Detachments" of the British Red Cross should be organised in each county. The detachments should be of two classes, consisting of men and women, similar to the relief detachments of the Japanese Red Cross Society, and the voluntary aid companies of Germany. The local branches of the British Red Cross Society within each county should appoint a county director of voluntary aid detachments, who should be at liberty to raise as many detachments as he likes, the essential point being that they should be of a definite and uniform character. As regards the training and equipment of these voluntary detachments, the essential point is that they should be trained to make use of local resources for the various purposes mentioned above.

The men's detachments would be especially employtd in preparing means of transport by road, in converting local buildings, villages, etc., into suitable clearing evacuation stations, etc., and in establishing hospitals fe r the slightly wounded near the area of operations.

The women's detachments would be employed chiefly in forming railway rest stations, for preparing and serving meals and refreshments to sick and wounded, during process of evacqation by railway, and for takitlg temporary charge in the evacuation stations or temporary hospitals of severe cases unable to continue the journey. They would thus be trained, not only in cooking and the preparation of invalid diets, but in arranging small wards for patients in suitable buildings, preferably near a railway station, and tn such nursing as is necessary for the temporary care of patients until they can be transferred to a hospital.

The men's detachment'" must be thoroughly trained as stretcher bearers, and to a certain extent as male nurses. A portion must also be trained as clerks, and in sanitary work, such as disinfection of buildings, etc., and each detachment should have among its members some men who are expert carpenters or mechanics.

Such voluntary aid detachments formed in every county, if numerous, will be sufficient for any demands likely to be made in time of invasion. It will be seen if fully trained in time of peace they are capable of filling three separate functions:-

The formation of clearing hospitals if they are in the immediate neighbourhood of the fighting force (say within ten miles).

The formation of temporary hospitals, rest stations, or collecting and evacuating stations.

Affording supplementary aid to clearing hospitals in advance of them and nearer to the scene of action.

It is understood that the Ambulance Department of the Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem in England is prepared to organise a special branch in connection with its centres and various other units throughout the country to meet the preliminary educational requirements of the Voluntary Aid Detachments.

September, 1909. -FIRST

The Existing Organization of the Home Railway and Unification.

By J. MACLEAN CARVELL, M.R.C.S., L.S.A., Hon. Surgeon, St. John Ambulance Brigade.

THE following paper was read at the recent meeting of the British Medical Association by Hon. Surgeon Carvell, of the No. District, S.J.A.B. Dr. Carvell who IS Honorary Surgeon to the G. W.R. (Paddington) Division takes a great interest in the propagation of ambulance traimng on our railways. He is a fluent lecturer and possesses the ready knack of knowing how to render his subject interesting to a railwa y class. As an examiner it is said of him, that a certificate bearing his signature, is a proof that the owner has really earned it.

The course of instruction which railway ambulance men go through is in accordance with that laid down in the syllabus of the St. John Ambulance Association. This, said the speaker, was comprised in five lectures, with an interval of seven days between each, followed by an examination. (A summary of the several lectures as laid down in the syllabus was then given, as our readers are already fully conversant with this leaflet we have not thought it necessary to give details here.)

THE EXAMINATION.

The examination, said Dr. Carvell, consists of a practical and a theoretical portion. The theoretical is either by a written paper or by viva voce questions. In the majority of railway examinations the written paper is dispens ed with, owing to the fact that the premises are not suitable.

The examination consists of at least five tests. In the practical p a rt ea ch candidate must treat a case of supposed fracture and a case of supposed hc:emorrhage, and then do either str e tcher or hand-seat exercise, or perform artificial re soira tion. In the vive voce part of the examination two questions have to be answered.

The ma ximum number of marks given for each test is 20, making a total of 100. In order to pass for the first aid certificate a candidate must obtain at least 50 per cent. For a voucher that is, the first re-examination, twelve months having elapsed after obtaining a certificate, .55 per cent. of marks have to be obtained. In the exammatlOn for the medallion, which takes place after a lapse of twelv.e months from obtaining the voucher, the pass standard IS raised to 60 per cent. For the label examinations, may be taken at intervals of twelve months after obtammg the medallion the standard is 60 per cent.

The text-book in use at the classes is the official manual of the St. John Ambulance Association First Aid to the Injured, by Mr. James Cantlie, F.R.C.S . ORGANISATION.

The classes may be either as detached classes, or organised by the employes themselves, or by a. centre. of the Association. As a rule the whole cost of the IllstructlOn and examination of these classes is borne by the Railway Companies, especially in the cases of those having centres. On those lines where detached classes are held, a money grant is invariably made, varying. from thre.e to four shillings for each man who obtallls hIS first certlfic.at:, an.d in a few cases a further grant of one or two shdlmgs IS made for each man who passes the second or third examination.

. The encouragement to take up ambulance work yanes on the different lines-such as rewards for profiCiency, rewards qone, aqditiona,l passes, medals, and

AID. - 35 certificates of honour for meritorious first aid rendered, competitions, and prizes. The great incentive, however, to ambulance work is undoubtedly the Inter-Railway Shield, which is offered for annual competition by the St. John Ambulance Association. Each railway has the right to enter a team consisting of five men.

The preliminary competition for ' this trophy is held about the end of April at St. John's Gate. The six teams securing highest marks in this preliminary contest are entitled to compete in the final which takes place during May. The members of those teams which compete in the final receive handsome prizes and the Company, represented by the winning team, holds the shield for one year.

For the purpose of selecting its representative team for this competition each Railway System holds an annual competition. This year on the Great Western and South-Eastern and Chatham Railways alone ISO teams competed.

For the purposes of this paper I communicated with most of the Railway Companies in England, and find that the first aid material usually supplied for use on the various lines consists of boxes, hampers and havresacs, containing splints, triangular bandages, roller bandages, lint, gauze, cotton wool, antiseptics, tourniquet and strapping plaister. The means of transport consist of stretchers, litters and carnages.

CONCLUSIONS.

It seems to me that all railway men should be given an elementary course of instruction in nursing and sanitation. The wives of the men should be encouraged also to go through a course of elementary instruction in home nursing and sick-room cookery.

With regard to transport, all guard's vans should be fltted with rings in roof for thr. suspension of stretchers and looped-ropes should be carried for attaching the stretchers to the rings. On those lines on which corridor-trains are run a percentage of stretchers with telescopic handles should be provided, as these can be utilised in the corridor compartments when placed cornerwise.

The easiest way to bring about unification between the various Companies would be through the St. John Ambulance Association. All Railway Companies which have not already done so should form centres of the Association. Then a Home Railway Committee should be formed which could nJeet at St. John's Gate, the members of the Committee to be nominated by the various Railway Companies and the St. John Am bulance Association. .

At the conclusion of the reading of the paper a diScussion took place.

Captain W. Salisbury-Sharpe said that there appeared to be little co-operation, or unity of method between the different Railway Companies, respecting the me.thods .to be adopted to keep up the men's interest and effiCiency 111 the work. The result of prize competition was too often to develop a few teams of highly skilled men rather than a large num ber of competent ones, the latter being the result to be desired. The best plan appeared to be that adopted on the South-Eastern & Chatham Railway, where an additional annual privelege was given, in the of .a holiday pass to such men as were up-to-date 10 thelr ambulance as proved by their having passed a recent re-examination.

The President said it was only fair to Dr. Carvell the Section should know that the paper that mornmg was not the complete paper originally sent m. That was much more elaborate and comprehensive, but on account of its length it had to be

Lieut.-Colonel E. M. WJlson sald he had listened with

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great interest to Dr. Carvell's paper, and agreed it was more desirable to obtain a larger number of efficient men than a few highly trained squads for competition purposes. Probably, however, better results would ensue, from consultation between those responsible for teaching on the different Railways, than by asking St. John's Gate to lay down additional rules and regulations. So far as the central authority at St. John's Gate was concerned, inducements were already offered by granting medallions after re-examination, and subsequently labels. In each re-examination a higher percentage of marks was re1.uired as a proof of higher efficiency. If some stringent rules were laid down at St. John's Gate, the result might be to rather hamper progress, and to interfere witb the discretion and individual freedom, now left to local instructors and examiners. He would suggest that the committees of the various Railway Companies should consult among themselves, with the view of obtaining rather more uniformity of

AID. - September, 1909.

and fa i led to k ee p up their knowledge. Few men had so many opportunities for practising fi rst aid, for opportunities were constantly arising on the rail wa ys, therefore as large a number of men as possible should be trained. As an instance of the need of first aid knowledge, Colonel Hendley quoted a case in which the man at a railway depot had been called upon to give it several times within a few weeks. He quite thought that if representatives of the rail ways with others from St. John's Gate, as for example Colonel Wilson whose was very large, were to meet they mIght soon bnng about the desired results. It must be evident to all who had seen, as he had done, the keen enthusiasm of those who took part in the final competitions for the Railway Shielrl, that a great deal of good work was being done, ana, after all, when it was borne in mind that those competing represented mor e than 1,000 men throughout the country, it would be seen that there was a wide diffusion of us e ful knowledge. The

September, 1909, -FIRST

The Tandem Tricycle Ambulance.

FROM time to time we have witnessed the introduction of an ambulance tricycle, which the inventors have cla imed possessed all the merits of the horse-drawn vehicle as regards speed and comfort.

It has .recently been out privilege to inspect a new !andem Tncycle a machine which certaintly Impressed us as being In every sense of the word reliable as manufacture and utility. It is a neat little and easy of propulsion an d can, therefore, be qUickly at scene of an accident, and equally as rapidly at the HospItal.

As will be seen from the illustrations, th e am bulance

Alb.- 37

will be. seen the ri.ders can have their patient under as. nde tandem with the carriage on their left.-hand SIde, It being supported by a third parallel wheel, however does not protrude beyond the frame. The carnage runs very smoothly, and occupies but a very space on the road. It is, therefore, essentially SUIted for the streets of the larger towns. Provision has ?een made m the ambulance for a supply of first aid applIances to be carried.

The Tan?em. Tricycle Ambulance has come to stay. r? the short time has been on the market ; it has gained hIgh. from many experts in ambulance and It IS. rapidly becoming widely popular. The from £35, IS. so moderate, that we should certainly t?In,k, th at n o colliery or other place where there is the liabilIty of aCC id ent will be without one.

TANDEM TR1 CVCLE AMBU LA

procedure, and he felt sure, that any representation or which they might make would, be most carefully conSidered by the Central Executive Committee at St. John's Gate. The system which had been referred to Railway Companies granted additional pnvlleges In the way of "passes" to men who maintained their efficiency, appeared to him to be of the utmost value.

Colonel Hendley quite agreed with Colonel Wilson that St. John's Gate would welcome any such suggestions, but he equally shared his opinion that it would be best if !he Railway Companies could consult among themselves, In the hope that they might. greater uniformity, and that the of t;alnmg might be more widely he qUlte agreed with other speakers that improvement was desirable, as present there was a strong tendency for a few men to acquire skill, while the p;reat body of rallway employes became discouraged,

l

railway and poli ce had. especially benefitted by ambulance training, but he qUlte agreed with the Commissioner of Police for London, who had told him that he did not consider that a single course of was sufficient, to ensure the maintenance of efficiency.

SHEFFIELD - The annual inspection of this Corps was held at the Headquarters, Corn Exchange, on August 21St. The Insp ect ing Officer was Assistant-Commissioner Malkin, and there were about 100 men on parade, under the command of District Chief Supt. H. C. Else. The men were put through infantry and stretcher drill and a series of tests in first aid, of which they acquitted themselves well.. At the conclusion, the Inspecting Officer hImself as very pleased at the way in which the vanous movem.ents had been executed,

is light and almost elegant in design, although the latter feature is by no means its strongest claim to success. It has been possible for the am bulance to be ridden to an accident, the stretcher has been lifted off, placed on the ground, the patient carefully placed upon it and the stretcher again placed upon the carriage The riders having mounted the machine) has been ridden off as fast as a horse can gallop. The time occupied from arrival to departure being under one minute. A very smart piece of work and one which, when we think how essential it often is, that there should be no undue delay in getting the patient into hospital, will favourably commend the ambulance to our public authorities.

Another point in its favour is that it is always ready for instant service, and no expense is entai le d in its upkeep, and in the case of a motor or horse-ambulance. As

Further particulars may be obtained from the Tandem Tricycle Ambulance Co., Ltd., 3IO, Bury New-road, Manchester.

KETT ER IN G.-The annual inspection of this Corps took place on August 28th, at the home of one of the last Grand Priors of the Order- Sir Thomas Tresham. Assistant-Com missioner Woolston was the inspecting officer.

On Sunday, Se ptember I2th, the No. 10 Division of the Metropolitan Corps held a field -day at Lewes, Supt. W. Pape was in command and the parade numbered 143. They marched to Cuckfield, a distance of about 10 miles . Mr. and Mrs. Sleath Gent afterwards took tea with the men,

NCE

N USE-STANDARD MODEL.

Two MECHANICS, HAVING SECURED ONE OF THEIR MATES ON THE STRETCHER ARE IN THE ACT OF LIFTING HIM ON TO THE TRICYCLE.

SOUTH EASTERN & CHATHAM RAILWAY.- The Mayor of Folkestone presented the certificates, etc., gained by the members of the Folkestone Class, on Wednesday, August 11th, at a smoking concert held in that town, expressing his delight that so many of the railway men in their town had qualified in first aid.

On the I7th August a very interesting demonstration was carried out on the lawn at the rear of the house of Dr. Wood, of Hither Green, the Hon. Surgeon of the Hither Green Ambulance Corps. The object of the meeting was to raise funds for the better equipment of the corps, and we learn with pleasure, that a most satisfactory result in this respect was attained.

On Saturnay, 28th August, a strong contingent of me!l employed in the works at Ashford, visited Headcorn for the purpose of giving men from the different stations in the district an opportunity for meeting each other for practice purposes. The demonstration was held in a meadow close to the station, Drs. Fotherby and Haddwick expressing their satisfaction at the way in which the various supposed injuries had been treated. The party afterwards assembled at the Institute Hall, where tea was served, The funds raised at the rect'nt concert at Charing have been expended in the provision of a stretcher and other appliances, the same being handed over for on Saturday, Ith September.

We are pleased to record that Mr. E. A. Richards, the Centre Secretary, was recently made an Hon. Serving Br?ther of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, an honour which he justly deserves, as it was mainly through his efforts that the S. E. & c. R. Centre was farmed in 1906, it now has over 3,000 members.

L.B. & S.c.R. (EASTBOURNE SECTION)-On Tuesday August 3rd, at London Bridge, five members of the bourne Section, representing a team which qualified for the L.B .. & S .c.R. Company's Challenge Cup and prizes, received awards of 7s. 6d. each from the hands of the Earl of Bessborough, C.V.O., C.B., Chairman of the The Eastb?urne team figured Vd in the "B" competition, held at New Cross and Eastbourne in March

The members of the team were :-A. Souch (captaIn), G. Chatfield, G. Perkin, W. Sims and F. Beaton.

MARYPORT AND CARLISLE RY.-Enthusiasm in ambuwork. is well to the fore on this railway, and for its s!ze thInk the results already achieved in so short a tlf!1e wIll compare very fav?urably with those of the larger railways. Last month certificates and medallions were presented a large number of the employes who had qualified by passIng the prescribed examinations.

Mr. T. Blain! manager of t.he C0rl!pany, who presided, In the course of hiS remarks, said that If the men continued to the .same enthusiasm in ambulance work and to In efficiency he saw no reason why a team from that Company not enter for the annual competition for the Inter-RaIlway Ambulance Challenge Shield.

AID.- September, 1909.

Mr. John Williamson, one of the directors, who made the representation, said the directors were extremely gratified at the result of the examination, and they looked forward to, and hcped to see a much larger number of employes qualify next year. The directors recognise the value of the work and would do all in their power to encourage it.

FURNESS RAILWAY.-The annual competition for the Directors' Challenge Shield and other prizes in connection with the ambulance centre of this railway took place on August 28th, in the Ballroom at Furness Abbey. It had been intended, as in former years, to hold the competition in the beautiful grounds of the abbey, but the weather conditions were such as to render this impossible. The contest, which commenced in the forenoon, was not finished until 3.30 in the afternoon.

The judging was kindly undertaken by Surgeon-Major Darwen, who, during the proceedings, gave some very valuable and practical advice to the ambulance men presp.nt.

There was a large attendance of ladies and gentlemen to witness the presentation of prizes. In the absence of the Duke of Devonshire, who is president of the centre, the chair was taken by Lord Muncaster, who was by Mr. F. J. Ramsden (director), Col. Sir James Clark, Bart. (Commissioner of the St. John Ambulance Brigade), Mr. W. R. Edwards (hon. secretary, Inter-Railway Competition), Surgeon-Major Darwen, Mr. Alfred Aslett (secretary and general manager, Furness Railway) and others.

In opening the proceedings, the Chairman gave a brief account of the work of the past session, and alluding to the contest for the Inter-railway shield, said it was a matter for regret that the Furness team only secured ninth place this year as against seventh last year. He trusted, however, that at no very distant date the Furness team would succeed in obtaining a higher position than even the one attained in 19°8.

Lord Muncaster then declared the result of the comas follow:-Millom, 18It points; Barrow, 154; I2ot; Moor Row, I Ulverston, 93l HIS LordshIp congratulated the winners on having secured the premier position for the third time. and handed to each member of the team a handsome box. They would also hold the Directors' Shield for the next 12 months. The Barrow team received salad bowls.

Col. James Clark, who then addressed the meeting, expressed the interest and appreciation which the Central Executive Committee took in the great work they were doing here, a work all the greater on account of the self-sacrifice it entailed. The display they had witnessed that day brought forcibly home to them the time and trouble which must have been expended both by teachers and pupils attain the high state of efficiency reached by the c?mpetIng teams. These com petitions were regarded as beIng of value to the Association, for they tended to create a SpIrIt of emulation among its mem bers, and also afforded the general public an opportunity of seein a by practical demonstration, the value of the work of'the Association. By the coutesy of Major Danven he had had an opportunity that afternoon of seeing how these competitions were judged, and he had been much impressed by the methods adopted to ensure absolute fairness. In a keen competition the difficulty of selecting the best team must often be very great, but Major Darwen, by his method, appeared to have reduced it to an exact science. In concluding an interesting address, Sir James Clark referred to the relationship which existed between the St. John Ambu-

September, 1909. -FIRST lance Association and the naval and military forces. The St. John Ambulance Association was a peace organisation, conducted under civil administration, and so it should remain. This however, did not preclude individuals belonging to, or who had belonged, to the Army and Navy from being placed on its roll. There were many such at the present time, nor did it preclude members of the St. John Am bulance Association, in which he included the Brigade, from temporarily joining the medical services of the Crown, while still retaining their membership of tt-.e Association, and of being lent in times of emergency to those forces.

An interesting address was also delivered by Mr. W. R. Edwards, after which a number of certificates, &c., were presented to a large number of the employes by Mrs. Harold Edwardes, to whom a hearty vote of thanks was accorded on the proposition of Lord Muocaster.

Mr. F. J. Ramsden, in acknowledging the vote on behalf of Mrs. Edwardes, expressed his pleasure at seeing the work so well maintained on the Furness Railway. They all knew there were risks connected with those working on our railways, therefore it was of the utmost importance that they should have a band of men who volutarily gave up their time to learning ambulance work. They never knew when an accident might happen, and in many cases ambulance men by their prompt and efficient treatment might be the means of saving life, or at all events, greatly alleviating pain and suffering. He hoped, therefore, that ambulance work on the Furness line would continue to make progress. It was a most valuable work and well worth persevering with.

Surg. - Major Darwen having addressed the meeting, a vote of tllanks was proposed by the Chairman to the various surgeon instructors, and was replied to by Drs. Bowman and Williams.

Votes of thanks were also accorded to Col. Sir James Clark, Surgeon Major Darwen, Mr. Hope (Centre Sec.), and to Lord Muncaster for presiding. In proposing the latter vote, Mr. Alfred Aslett expressed his indebtedness to Lord Muncaster for his kindness in being present with them that day; especially considering that he only home from the South on the day previous. In conclUSIOn, Mr. Aslett referred to the appreciation which the directors ano officers of the Company had in seeing how keen was the interest taken in ambulance work by the staff of the Furness Railway. Railway work must be progressive, and he felt sure that the work of the Centre, although at times they might be a little pessimistic about it, he would not say they were downhearted about it, would still continue to progress and to hold its own against any other railway in the country.

Lord Muncaster returned thanks and referring to their indebtedness to those who had arranged that meeting, said he was perfectly certain that his friend, Mr. Aslett, had not been the least active.. He thanked him for what he had done both for that and previous gatherings.

AID.39

Mr. Aslett, in a few words, expressed his appreciation of the kind remarks of Lord Muncaster. He had been connected with ambulance work for the last fifteen years, and he hoped he should have sufficient energy to continue to take an active interest in it for another fifteen years. The proceedings then terminated, and the Company were subsequently entertained to tea.

New Motor Ambulance Car for West Ham Union.

MESSRS. DENNI S BROS., LTD., the welJ-known motor builders, of Guildford, have just supplied the Guardians of the Poor for the West Ham Union with a thoroughly up-to-date motor ambulance car.

By the illustration it will be seen that the door of the ambulance opens in the middle. It is obvious that to put a stretcher into this in the ordinary course of events bearers would have to carry this in the body of the ambulance, and then to fit up and put it on this frame. To obviate this, the frame is hinged at the front end of the body and the back end is loose. The two legs of the frame rest on castors which roll along the floor of the body, allowing the ends of the frame on trestles to appear at the door. By this means the stretcher can be placed on the end of the trestle and run right in and then the whole frame, including the stretcher, run back, or swivelled back, into place and packed up securely. It will be noticed also that the steps are of the bath chair type, but they are so made that it would be for anyone to obtain by its means a free ride.

In view of the fact that motor traction is now being very seriously considered in regard to the more speedy and careful transit of the sick and injured, we have no doubt that the particulars here given will be of great interest to those of our readers who are interested in this important part of am bulance work.

The Metropolitan Am bulances Bill was read a second time in the House of Lords on Weduesday, September 15 th .

The Royal Commission on Mines which ur:der Lo!d Monkswell was appointed in 1909, has recently Issued Its second report. Many recommendations are made with a view to ensure greater safety in mines and underground workings.

When corresponding with Advertisers please mention "First Aid."

Brevities.

SINCE writing our leader on the subject of the British Red Cross Society and its probable influence upon the future of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, we have received from the Chief Secretary of the St. John Am bulance Association, copies of the several leaflets which have been drawn up, for the guidance of those ladies and gentlemen who are to undertake the formation of the classes, which it is proposed to start under the new scheme. With these circulars, we have no fault to find, they have evidently been drawn up, with that thoughtfulness and painstaking attention to detail, which is so characteristic of the routine work which emanates from the Association, but we were somewhat surprised to find that in assisting in the formation of this new force, the authorities at "The Gate" have apparently decided to ignore the existence of their own splendid Am bulance Reserve, at least there is no mention of it, nor is any warning given to members of it-as was done in the case of the Territorial Forces-against joining the new organisation. Of course it is just possible, that, the Central Executive Committee may have taken every possible precaution, to protect the interests of their own ambulance service, but we do wish they would take us just a little into their confidence in these matters.

THIS Journal has, now for the past fourteen years, represented ambulance interests in this country, and naturally in a crisis such as the present, members of the Brigade write to us expressing the doubts which they entertain as to the result which the recruiting for this new movement will have on their own organisation. This is all very natural, and for months we have been trying in all quarters to obtain some sort of guarantee that the present high position attained by the Brigade should be recognised, but so far as we know, nothing has been done in this direction. *

* *

Now we have no desire to dictate, and we do not desire that it should be assumed that we are interfering in matters that do not concern us j but we do take a very real and earnest interest in the splendid ambulance force which the Am bulance Department of the Order has created, and we should deeply deplore that any newly created force should rob it of its premier position. That every man, and every woman, should learn the principles of first aid, is a maxim that we have steadfastly asserted for many years pastj with the proposals therefore to attain this end by promoting increased facilities for bringing it about, we are quite in accord, but the proposal to form fresh ambulance units for public service is quite another matter, and it is here that we question the policy of the War Office.

A I D.·- September, 1909

be seen by the following extract from our contemporary Tlze Hospital which says :-

"To utilise the Red Cross Society to fill this gap seems to us a mistake. Dictated probably by the financial starvation which is threatening the very life of the Territorial scheme, this policy of wedging in an amateur, non-disciplined and untrained link between the field units, and the general hospitals seems to be much of a piece with the strictly paper equipment of the two ends of the chain, and just as likely to break down seriously when the strain comes. It is not fair or desirable that a voluntary society such as the Red Cross should be expected to equip, as well as to raise the personnel of such essential parts of the organisation of our medical service for war as the 'clearing' and' stationary' hospitals. This is the duty of the War Office, and to no outside corporation should it be delegated. It is some satisfaction to see it authoritatively recognised that something must be done, but much less so to note the half-hearted and niggardly way in which the provision is set about. The Red Cross Society, and the St. John's, and St. Andrew's Ambulance Societies, too, might well be entrusted with the care of those who are well enough to be discharged from the stationary and general hospitals, but unfit immediately to resume their places in the firing line. But the proper place for a clearing hospital is within a few hours march of the firing line, and even on occasions almost within gunshot of it j and we must repeat that the chaos of the modern battlefield, and especially the horrors of its hospitals, are more likely to be accentuated than diminished by the intrusion of untrained and unequipped amateurs of both sexes into the midst of operations."

To prove that the fears of thE: mem bers of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, that the suggested Volunteer Aid Detachments may enter the arena, and undertake the work which they now carry out, are not altogether groundless, a correspondent calls our attention to an interview which a representative of The Times had with Sir Frederic Treves, in which the eminent surgeon, referring to the formation of these Voluntary Aid Corps, is reported to have said :- " I believe that it will be of great utility and interest to all who participate in it, quite apart from the question of war. Suppose, for instance, a grand stand falls down at a football match, what a fine thing it must be to have on the spot a number of men who know how to deal with injured people." "Does Sir Frederic Treves ever attend a football match, I wonder," says our correspondent, ., If so he must surely have seen a squad, or squads of St. John men on duty on such occasions."

Septcmber 1909. -FIRST

Our Portrait Gallery.

LIEUT.-COLONEL GEORGE E. TWISS, R.A.M.e. (Retired), KNIGHT OF GRACE OF THE ORDER OF THE HOSPITAL OF ST. JOHN OF JERUSALEM IN ENGLAND, ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER, S.J.A.B., No. II. DISTRICT, HON. SECRETARY SOUTHAMPTON CENTRE, S.J.A.A.

THOSE of our readers who, like ourselves, have watched with interest and have realised the value of the services so ungrudgingly rendered by the subject of our sketch, will,

AI D.-

during the progress of the Zulu War. The medal and clasp, however, which he received for this service were dearly purchased, inasmuch as that year's absence from England, owing to the admission of two large batches to the Army Medical Department under a new warrant lost him upwards of 100 places in seniority-a loss he' was never enabled to make good.

Passing in August 1880, the first available examination he joined at Netley in the following October, F::!bruary 1881, was gazetted Surgeon, A.M.D. Promoted to the rank of Surgeon-Major in 1893, he attained the rank of Lieut.-Colonel in 1901, and selected Lieut. -Colonel in 190 4; retiring voluntarily from the service in I9 0 7 In addition .to the duties whi.ch fall to the lot of every soldier-doctor, Lieut.-Colonel TWISS feels a natural pride at having been :-

One of the first Army surgeons to pass the examination in. Military Law as for. other .officers of the Army. to CaptaIn (DlstmgUlshed) In 1881; Captain to Major In 1882 ; the first Company Officer to pay his own. men (Aldershot, 1888, No. Company); he first Medical Officer to hold the appointment of Adjutant of the Depot and Training School-1888 to 1902 ; in 18 92-3 h e was appointed a member of the Revision Committee of the Corps Manual, and, while at Malta in addition to his oth er duties, he acted as Secretary to the Surgeon-General ; from 1894 to 1891, whi le at Shorncliffe, Lieut.-Col. Twiss was in charge of officers, women and children, and the for soldiers' families, concluding his service by holding for four years the post of Registrar and Secretary (Commanding Companies RA.M.e.) at the Royal Victoria Hospital, Netley.

Besides having been, as we have alread y st a ted, through the Zulu War, Lieut.-Colonel Twiss was in medical charge of the 1St. Batt. Royal Berks Regiment in E gypt in 1882, and received the medal with clasp and the Khedive's Star. He also took part in the Nile Campaign of 188 5, and served in the last South African War. Ga zett e d Staff Officer to the P.M. O. 3rd Infantry Division (Gatacre s), he sailed for South Africa in October I899, and was present with the Division at Storm berg, Bethuli Bridge, and the actions round Dewetsdorp. (Despatches, L Oll d on Ga ze tte, April 16th, I 90 1. Queen's and three Clasps).

we are sure, be pleased to see in our Gallery this month, the portrait of the popular Honorary Secretary of the Southampton Centre of the St. John Ambulance Association.

Lieut.-Colonel Twiss who was born in Dublin more than half a century ago, first studied medicine at the College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, and having obtained the degree of M.D., of Columbia College, was appointed House Physician of the Roosevelt Hospital in 1877. It is interesting to mention that it was while holding this appointment that Lieut.-Colonel Twiss inaugurated the Ambulance Service attached to the Hospital.

About the latter part of the year 1900, Lieut.-Colonel Twiss was ordered to form General Hospital (No. XX ) with 600 beds at Elandsfontein, and until the close of the war he acted as P.M.O. of this hospital, holding the local rank of Colonel (Despatches, London Ga ze tte, July 29 th 19 02 King's Medal and two Clasps). Many photographs of this hospital, taken from different positions, are repro. duced in the Report of Medical Arrangements, South African War, by Surgeon-General Sir W. D. Wilson, K.e.M.G.

Colonel Twiss subsequently closed this hospital and having wound up the other hospitals in the district, he was, after a severe illness, invalided home in Decem ber 19 02 .

THAT we are not alone in our views on this question will

BATLEY.-The annual competition for the Challenge Cup presented by the Batley Division of the S.J.A.B. took place on August 28th, when the following teams competed: Br?wnroyd (Bradford), Halifax Borough Police, Hebden Bndge, Stanley Colliery, and Morley. The competition which was keenly contested throughout was eventually won by the Brownroyd team.

Returning to Dublin in 1878, Lieut.-Colonel Twiss took the L.R.e.S.I., and was immediately appointed a Demonstrator of Anatomy in its Medical School. He subsequently became a L.K. and Q.e.P.I., in the same year, and a member of that College in 1882 j taking the F.R.e.S.I. in 1886.

Upon receipt of the news of the disaster at Isandula, in 1879, the subject of our sketch volunteered for, and obtained an appointment as a Civil Surgeon, attached to the forces, and as such served for nearly a twelvemonth

From his experience in the South African War, Colonel Twiss was led to realise the want of an effective reserve of reliable and trained attendants in the field, and at N etley, in 1903, the fact was made patent that the need was equally great in the military hospitals at home.

As a means to this end, in q05, he revived the Southampton Centre of the St. John Ambulance Association, and on his personal solicitation H.RH. the Princess Louise, Duchess of Argyll, graciously accepted the office of President. Since March 1905, some 2,000 certificates have been gained, over 600 since October 1908, and as showing

-FIRST

the interest and energy displayed by the subject of our sketch, we have only to mention the fact that he has personally instructed thirty-nine classes.

The ambulance wagon which was built by the authorities at "The Gate" was purchased in April 19 08 , as our readers will doubtless remember, by public subscriptions collected by Southampton's energetic local honorary secretary. Since it was acquired in 1908 it has conveyed, free of charge, about twenty accident or emergency cases each month-either to home or hospital. It has recently been fitted with an electric light installation.

As showing that the interest which Colonel Twiss takes in ambulance work is not the growth of yesterday, we may mention that he has been an honorary life member of the Association since 1884. He received the parchment vote of thanks in 1906, and was awarded the vellum vote of thanks in 1907. In December 1908, in further recognition of his services he was gazetted a Knight of Grace of the Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem in England. At the last Inter-Railway Competition he acted as one of the judges, and on St. John's Day, this year, he was appointed a member of the Central Executive Committee.

The connection of Lieut.-Colonel Twiss with the St. John Am bulance Brigade dates from 1907 when he was appointed Hon. Surgeon and Supt. of the Southampton Division. He was promoted to the rank of District Chief Supt., NO.2 District, in 1908, and has just recently been appointed an Assistant Commissioner. The Southampton Nursing Division was inaugurated by him in 1908, some thirty of his old pupils joining on its formation, and this year he presented a silver rose bowl for annual competition in first aid among the Nursing Divisions located in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, the Portsmouth Nursing Di vision winning the first contest.

An enthusiastic Freemason since 1878, he has passed the chair in the Craft, Royal Arch, Mark, Temple, Knights of Malta, and 18th degree. In February last he attained the 30th degree, and he has hopes of further progress. He is especially proud, and justly so, of having been Preceptor of the Melita Preceptory, and Prior of its Priory in Malta.

Lieut.-Colonel Twiss is an firm believer in total abstinence and is on the Executive Committee of the Hampshire Band of Hope. He is an Honorary Member of the First Legion of the American National Red Cross, a member of the Naval and Military Committee of the British Medical Association, and also a patron of the Southampton Troops of the "Boy Scouts." He has just been appointed County Director of the British Red Cross Voluntary Aid Detachments in

While in the Service, Lieut.-Colonel Twiss was as keen in all matters relating to the welfare and efficiency of his Cor?s, as he was in his professional work, and although his life has been far from all sunshine, he possesses the happy faculty, of looking only at the bright side of things. Since his connection with civilian ambulance work, that thoroughness which was characteristic of him in the Army, has marked all that he has taken in hand. The Southampton Centre which had been dormant for many years, and which apparently no one thought of reviving until Colonel Twiss took it in hand has, under his energetic lead become one of the most promising in the Southern district. In his new appointment, in connection with the NO.2 District of the Brigade, he will have opportunities of putting into practise, those methods of organisation which have proved so marked a feature, in connection with his secretarial work on behalf of the Southampton Centre.

[n conclusion, we can only hope that Colonel Twiss

AI D.- Septem ber, [909. may for many years have health and strength, to carry out the d'Jties appertaining to the appointment. That his appointment will be a pop111ar one we do not doubt, for he only requires to be more fully known in the district, to become as popular as he is in Southampton. There are, we do know, a large number who can unite with us, in tendering" Hearty Good Wishes," a greeting which we feel assured the subject of our sketch will genuinely appreciate. o

No. 2 District.

BRISTOL.-The "F" Bearer Co. which is attached to the Bristol Corps of the S.lA.B., went through the annual training this year at Aldershot. On the occasion of the inspection, Col. F. Treherne, the inspecting officer, said it gave himself, and other members of the m edical staff, great pleasure to welcome the men of the St. John Ambulance Brigade in the hospital. There being three companies, namely, Bristol, Leeds and Sheffield, besides an invasion of Territorials from London and Wales, they were at a loss where they should put all the men for instruction, but this was immediately made clear by the keenness and willingness on the part of the men to do anything that was asked of them. It was not only patriotism, but self-sacrifice, for all the men to give up their holidays and spend them in the way they had. Not only had their conduct been excellent, but the duties of all had been splendidly performed, and he assured them he should send in an excellent report to the senior officers at St. John's Gate. He also mentioned that whenever any of the St. John's men came to the Cam bridge Hospital, to work amongst the medical staff, they would welcome them and give them every possible attention. The Bristol men are agreed that they had a most enjoyable time during their week in camp.

Sergt.-Major McColgin, R.A. M.C., was in charge of the St. John Co.'s, and was most kind in the attention he gave to them. At their departure the members of the "F" Co. were, by the kindness of Sergt.-Major Ellison of the Leeds Co., played to the railway station by the Leeds bugle band.

FOLKEsToNE.-The band of this Division had an invitation to go to Calais on Sunday, Sept. 12th. They left Dover by the I a.m. boat and arrived at Calais at I2·36 , where they were received by a deputation from Calais and Paris. Thousands of people were on the pier to welcome them, from thence they marched to the Victoria Hotel, where dinner was served. At 3 p.m. the band assembled at the large square in front of the Town Hall where a procession was formed (which was in aid of the French Lifeboat Fund, and was nearly two miles long). A reception was held at the Town Hall, Supt. Adams being presented to the Mayor, then the band reformed in the procession and marched about 6 miles to the monument erected in memory of the lifeboatrnen, on arriving at the monument Supt. F. Adams and Sergt. H. Coppens were introduced to the British Consul, Gen. Gould, of the French Army, and

Septem ber, g09. -FIRST

many other gentlemen, and were presented with the medal of the French Marine Am bulance to show good will to the St. John Am Brigade of England. At 8 p. m. the mer,. entertal11ed by the Mayor, many interesting speeches bel11g made, and at 10 p.m. by the Deputy-Mayor. they. shown around the principal buildings of CalaIS, arnvl11g back at the Victoria Hotel at a. m. Monday morning. They left Calais at 2. IS a. m., hundreds of people went down to the boat to bid them farewell' they received a most hearty reception everywhere. )

NO.3 District.

the. object of stimulating

111 ambulance work 111 thIS town, five Divisions of the Leicester Corps paid visit to the town on Saturday, Aug. 21th, and gave a senes of demonstrations in first aid. Preceding first to the Brush Works, where a number of men had been told off to act as patients, these had been lab.elled and t?ey were IJlaced in various parts of the works which were dIfficult of access. The work proved somewhat heavy and exacting, but it was carried out in a manner that reflected the highest credit on all conctrned.

After tea at the Temperance Hall, at which a few short speeches were the visiting divisions adjourned to Southfield Park, kl11dly placed at their disposal by Mr. yv. B. Paget. furt?er drills were gone through, and In some of these Improvised material was used stretchers bei.ng made from coats and rope, &c. The stretcher :vhlch. was fixed up. by the Great Central Division, was very Ingenious. It qUite took the eye of the few spectators present and was the subject of specially warm commendafrom the medical men (Drs. Phelps and Pike) who l11spected the work. Another useful extemporised appliance was a litter made out of two bicyles.

At the conclusion, the Mayor (Alderman Mayo) the mem bers ?f the Leicester Corps for the very Interestl11g demonstratIOn they had given, and after a few words of endorsement from Dr. Pike, Chief Supt. King replied on behalf of the visitors.

WELLINGBOROUGH.-The various Divisions comprising this corps paraded at the Headquarters, Church-street, on August 21st, and headed by the Volunteer Band, marched to the playing fields of the Boys' Grammar School. Never has the smart appearance and efficiency of the mem bers been more marked than it was on this occasion as the Corps marched through the crowded streets, proving that in Chief Supt. Nicholson they had a worthy successor to their late popular Chief.

Arrived at the parade ground, the companies were drawn up to receive the Inspecting Officer-AssistantCommissioner Woolston-who was accompanied by the District Chief Surgeon and the Di'3trict Supt. of Stores.

After a close inspection of all ranks the corps marched past. This is a movement always well executed by the corps, and on this occasion their marching was, as usual, well nigh faultless. Then followed first aid work, which was keenly watched by a number of interested spectators, amongst whom we noticed Chief Supt. Hilton (retired), Chief Supt. King (Leicester), Dr. Clark and Mr. T. Graveley. The various operations were closely followed and the smart and efficient way in which the various cases were treated evoked warm praise. The extemporised first aid dressings made use of by the railway men being especially commended. Nor must the excellent work done by the Nursing Sisters and the Signallers be forgotten.

At the close of the inspection the corps was addressed

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4.3

by Inspecting Officer, who congratulated them on the of heir efficiency, and expressed his pleasure at them once again, remarking that, with one exceptIOn, he had been present at every inspection since corps started. He was glad to see that as much l11terest as ever was taken in the work. The men were as sm'!rt as well set-up, and the Nursing Sisters were just as pleasmg as ever to look upon. congratulating the corps on the excellent form shown In the competition for "Miller" and Surgeon Watson and Sergeant 'yv tlson On receivIng thelr long service medals, the Inspectl11g Officer went on to say that as regards the work done that day, it seemed to be as well done as ever and he need say no more about it. Their material and wdgons were in good order, and the latter were well fitted with medical necessaries. Unfortunately, rain necessitated curtailing the proceedings, and, later on, the corps marched back to headquarters.

NO.4-District.

COLNE.-!?-on. Surgeon Heys, of this division, has, With the sanctIOn and approval of His Majesty, been enrolled as an Honorary Associate of the Order of St. John. Our hearty congratulations to Dr. Heys, he has for many years been an enthusiastic worker in the ambulance cause, and has thoroughly earned the distinction conferred.

SHAw.-Staff-Surgeon Bean, R.N., attended at the headquarters of the Crompton Division and inspected a number of men wh') have joined the Royal Naval AuxilIary Sick Berth Reserve. The men who paraded came from the Oldham Corps and the Crompton Division. There were present on parade District Supt. of Store Davies representing the District Staff, Hon. Surgeon Hutton and Supt. Morton.

The men were put through a most searching examination in first aid and nursing, the ordeal lasting well over two hours. At the conclusion, the Inspecting Officer expressed himself as being very pleased at the result of his inspection. He urged them, however, to try and still further improve themselvC's. Everybody had something to learn, and although they had done so well th e y might yet do better. They must try and further improve themselves in nursing, for that was a most essential part of Sick Berth Reserve work. Their first aid work was excellent. He pointed out that in time of war the members would probably be employed in transferring patients from hospital ships to hospitals on shore, and here their experience would be most valuable. For men would be wanted for this work who knew how to handle their patients.

No. 5 District.

BRADFoRD.-Hon. Surgeon Vaughan Bateson had an exciting week end on August 28th. Proceeding to Rheims he was one of the passengers on the mail-packet "LeNord," which, owing to the dense fog which prevailed, ran ashore just outside Calais Harbour. A mild panic among the ladies resulted, says the doctor, but there was never any danger, and the whole of the Vassengers were rescued, little the worse for their adventure-which was more exciting than dangerous. Hon. Surgeon Bateson who i.; an enthusiastic member also of the Ambulance Department of the N.F.B. U., attended the annual gathering of the Sapeurs Pompiers, at Caen, when he was elected an Hon. Member of the French Federation. Dr. Bateson is most enthusiastic about the Rheims meeting, as a result of what he witnessed he has arrived at the conclusion that in

matters of aVIatlOn the French are an easy first, the Americans being their nearest rivals, while, at the present time, the English are nowhere. To the well-known maxim made use of by H.R.H. the Pnnce of Wales, at the Guildhall a few years back, it is another case of "Wake up England."

ALFREToN. - The annual inspection of the Tibshelf and Birchwood Corps is an event which is always forward to with keen interest in this neighbourhood, and It is due in a great measure to the interest which has always been taken in these two corps by the popular Deputy-Commissioner of the district, who has begrudged neither time nor money to keep ambulance work in the neighbourhood well to the front. It will doubtless be within the recollection of many of our readers that Tibshelf and Birchwood were two of the ambulance corps which had the unique privilege of being inspected at vV indsor Old Park by the late Queen Victoria.

The grounds of Doe Hill House, the residence of Mr. S. C. Wardell, the Deputy -Commissioner for the District, were selected for this year's inspection, and Mr. Wardell was the Inspecting Officer.

The corps and divisions on parade were Tibshelf, 82 strong; Birchwood, 54; Blackwell, 27 ; Sutton-in-Ashfield, 8. The total of all ranks were as follows:- Three hon. surgeons, twelve officers, two sergeant-majors, firteen sergeants, nineteen corporals, two buglers, thirty-six bandsmen, I3 privates and thirteen nursing sisters.

The Inspecting Officer, who was accompanied by Surgeon-General Sir William Taylor, K.C.B., late DirectorGeneral, Army Department, and Sir John Furley, C. B., both of whom are old friends of the corps on parade, made a close inspection of all ranks, and the men afterwards went through a series of smartly executed drills, and gave a display in first aid treatment of the wounded. Sir William, who closely watched this part of their work, favourably commended several of the men on the skill they had shown.

Addressing the parade at the conclusion of the drill, Sir William Taylor said he was glad to renew his acquaintance with the local corps, he had known some of those on parade for about fifteen years, and he noticed upon that occasion a very marked improvement in their work. Their movements that day were very near being perfect, and their turnout was better in every way, part of their drill that afternoon was faultless. The nursing sisters had also acquitted themselves well.

One point he desired to impress upon them, that was, that in their work there was no "best." They never reached the highest possible attainments. Their motto must always be, "higher." Their work, they must remember, was one of mercy, and in carrying it out they should not neglect the slightest detail. He mentioned this because there were one or two slight details which required attention, but in saying so, he did not want them to think that they reflected upon the general excellence of the afternoon's work, which was a credit to the instructors, the officers, and men alike. He congratulated them upon their efficiency and the very marked improvement which they had made. He was convinced that they could take their places in am bulance work in any part of the world.

Deputy Commissioner Wardell thanked Sir William for his kind words and for the advice he had given them. They appreciated very much his presence that afternoon and also the presence of Sir John Furley, who was an old friend of the Ti bshelf Corps.

AID.- September, 1909.

Sir John Furley also said a few words, he reminded the Tibshelf men that for nearly thirty years he had been an hon. member of their corps. During that period he had been struck by their devotion to the movement in that district. He admired their zeal, and he knew that they were encouraged by Mr. and Mrs. Wardell to whose personal initiative the movement owed so much in that district.

Upon the call of the Inspecting Officer, the companies gave hearty cheers for their distinguished visitors.

The companies were afterwards entertained to tea by :\1r. and Mrs. Wardell, and in the evening a smoking concert was held in the Tibshelf Colliery School, ::It which Sir John Furley presented certificates and medallions to the successful students at the recent ambulance examinations. There was a large attendance over which Supt. Lawton presided, supported by Deputy Commissioner Wardell, Sir William Taylor, Sir John Furley, and other gentlemen.

During the evening Sir John Furley addressed the gathering. He reminded his hearers that Tibshelf was one of the first corps formed in the country. At Tibshelf, in fact, they were" instinctively ambulance men," and they had more practice than in most places.

"We hear a great deal about war scares nowadays," said Sir John; "they don't affect me, personally. But we shall always live in scares and panics unless the people are prepared to come forward and take their place in the maintenance of the integrity of the country. He hoped that Mr. Haldane- in his Territorial Scheme-would not forget the Ambulance Brigade. It was thirty-two years since they first commenced ambulance work in Tibshelf, and during that time he (Sir John) had received more assistance in ambulance work from Tibshelf than from any other part of the country.

A presentation was made to Han. Surgeon Marriott by Deputy - Commissioner Wardell, on hehalf of the successful students at the recent ambulance classes. The gift, which was a handsome silver hot-water jug, was acknowledged in a feeling speech by the recipient, and upon his initiative the company heartily drank the health of Sir John Furley and Sir William Taylor, "two men of fame in the ambulance world," said the doctor. The toast was accorded musical honours and "The Ambulance Whisper."

During the evening the Tibshelf Band rendered a fine selection of instrumental music and several local artists gave a miscellaneous selection of vocal items.

DENABY CADEBY.-On Saturday, August 28th this corps was inspected in the football field by District Chief Supt. Else. There was present on parade Chief Surgeon Twigg, Chief Supt. Chambers, Hon. Surgeons Foster, Ram, Huey and Burman; Supts. Witty, Barnard and H. Chambers Ambulance Officers Bridges and Milnes; 108 sergeanfs, corporals and rank-and-file, together with a band of 24 performers. Lady Supt. Mrs. Twigg and 24 nursing sisters, making a total of 168 on parade.

The companies having marched past in column and quarter-column and in line, then advanced in review order. They were afterwards formed into stretcher sections and put through the drill by Supt. vVitty, subsequently going through batlallion drill under Supt. Chambers.

At the conclusion the companies were drawn up and addressed by the Inspecting Officer, who expressed his satisfaction with the way in which the various movements had been performed, especially the stretcher drill. The

September, 1909. -FIRST corps then marched back to headquarters, the nursin g sisters following the band and preceding the ambulanc e divisions.

KEIGHLEY.-The annual inspection of this corps, which includes the following divisions-Keighley, Haworth, Steeton, Slisden and Bingley, took place on August 28th. The Inspecting Officer was Surgeon-Major West Symes, District Chief Surgeon. The whole of the accounts, registers, records and other forms were first carefully examined at headquarters, and the corps then proceeded to Cliff Castle Park, kindly lent by Mr. Butterfield, where a series of drills and first aid work was gone through. Addressing the corps afterwards, the Inspecting Officer said that the drill was in every way satisfactory. In alluding to the secretarial work, Major Symes said, "The books were the best kept set of books he had ever seen throughout the district."

As the corps were returning to headquarters a lady fell off a tramcar, sustaining a nasty wound of the temporal artery, and concussion of the brain. A detachment of the corps was at once told off to attend to the accident, which thf!y did in a most efficient manner, afterwards conveying the lady home in the ambulance wagon. Whilst engaged with this case, another call was received for their services to attend to a man who had attempted to cut his throat. His injuries were attended to and the ambulance men subsequently conveyed him to the infirmary.

No. 6 District.

HULL. -The mem bers of the Neptune-street, H. and B. Rly. Division of this Corps, accompanied by their wives, children and friends, held their annual outing, by kind permission of Mrs. Barnard, at South Cave Castle, on August 21St. Specially reserved carriages for the party were attached to the 1.25 p.m. train from Hull. Upon arrival at South Cave, a tour of the extensive grounds attached to the castle was first made, ::lnd then at 5 o'clock the party, numbering about 70, adjourned to the Temperance Hall, where a capital tea was provided by Mrs. H. Ward, of Market-place. Ample justice having been done to the good fare provided, a move was once more made for the Castle Park, where sports and other games were indulged in, and at the conclusion the prizes were presented by Mrs. Ward. The hearts of the youngsters were gladdened, each one receiving a souvenir mug, and a prize for their share in the sports. All too soon the time for the return journey arrived, the party reaching Hull at 10 p.m. The arrangements for the outing, which was voted most successful, were made by Supt. F. Wilson and Sergeants S. Nunn and W. Brockleshy. Each member of the division received a free railway ticket from the Company, and they desire to express their grateful thanks to the directors for their kind cuncession. They also tender their best thanks to Mrs. Barnard for her kindness in allowing them to visit South Cave Castle.

SCUNTHoRPE.-The annual inspection of this Division took place at the Higher Elementary Schools, on Wednesday, September 8th, the Inspecting Officer being Major Lambert, R.A.M.C.(T.), District Supt. of Stores. In addition to squad and company drill the division went through stretcher drill, and the two and four-handed seats. At the conclusion the Inspecting Officer congratulated the Division on its increased membership and also on the improvement in the drill.

AI D.- 45

St. John Ambulance Association: Territorial Branch.

have received, from the Chief Secretary, copies or CIrculars numbered respectively" Ref. T.B. I, 2, and 3." In the plan of campaign which it is proposed to carry out I.n conjunction with the British Red Cross is very fully detalled. Briefly put, the circulars show in outline the reason fvr the formation of these classes, and the system under which they are to be worked, pointing out that, in case of invasion, the whole of the supplementary work required for the adequate aid of the sick and wounded will be performed by the Voluntary Aid Detachments of the British Red Cross Society. Instructions are gi ven for the guidance of the Secretaries of Centres and Detacheci Classes of the S.J.A.A., as well as for those of the County Associations. Great importance is laid upon the urgent necessity which exists for those desiring to join these Voluntary Aid Detachments to first obtain the necessary instruction in first aid.

The work is to be organised county by county, that is to say that in each county there will be established a Section of the Territorial branch of the St. John Ambulance Association for the purpose of forming classes. The usual plan will be followed as in the case of Centres under the Association, that is there will be presidents-preferably the Lord-Lieutenant and his wife-vice-presidents, committee and two honorary secretaries-one for the men s classes, and one for those of the women.

All communications relating to this Branch of the Associlltion's work must be addressed to the Assistant Secretary, Territorial Branch, S.J. A. A., St. John'S Gate, Clerkenwell, E.c., and have th e following reference quoted- " T.B."

The Private Fire Brigade of Messrs. Delhaize Freres, Brussels.

( Concluded fr olll p age: 3 0)

FOR the purposes of drill, and also in the case of attendance at fires the brigade is divided into two companies, each under the command of an officer. Prior to enrolment recruits are required to undergo daily drill. The course of instruction consists of both military drill and such other exercises as will best conduce to the efficient training of a fireman, such as gymastic exercises, the different d.rills for the s::lving of life, the making of knots, the work 109 and construction of the engines and other fire plant, and the manarrement of hydrants, water sluices, and gas equipment. Each bmember of the brigade is also instructed in the use and mechanism of the telephone.

In addition to the weekly drills which take place every Saturday, each company goes thrc:ugh a wet dri.1l once a month, and, as stated in a preVIOUS part of thIS account, frequent false alarms are both dynng the day and night. The drills are essentIally practIcal ones, and are conducted as though an actual fire had occurred in some part of the variou.s buildings, the. m.ethods of extinction being carried out 10 a most realIstIC an.d methodical manner. The officer on duty for the week IS responsible for the plan of campaign, .and he all the details for the drill, at the concluslOn of he gIves a brief address on the theoretical and stratgetic value of the operations in which they had been engaged.

A special feature in connection with the brigade, and one that is much appreciated by the. mem bers, is the comfortable reading-room which bas been provided for their use here is a well filled series of book-cases which contain a large number of works on the various of fire extinction and fire prevention, In additIOn to which a large number of newsare provided, many of these also dealing with the fire service. This room is available

THE LIBRARY.

to all ranks of the corps and is freely used by the men when not at drill or other duty. Another special feature and one that is equally. apprec.iated, is the well equipped gymnasium has been provided by the firm, who recognise that the exercises which are all tend to the development of those qualit.les most essential in the training of VIZ., the enlaging of the chest, thereby increasing the breathing capacity; the development of the musc!f.s, thereby augmenting the r.7r.1

-FIRST AI D.- September, 1909.

powers of endurance. It is somewhat strange to English ideas that all the exercises are performed in the working uniform of the brigade. As a further proof of the interest which the of the directors firm take in the members of the corps, we may mention that each one is insured against acidents incurred while in the execution of their duty.

THE OFFICERS AND N ON-COMMISSION OFFICERS.

In order to still further stimulate and encourage the feeling of esprit de corps which is so prominent a feature among all ranks, the directors have affiliated the corps to the Federation Royale des Corps de SapeursPam piers de Belgique. It participates regularly at all meetings and in the annual competitions, in which it has on several occasions attained high distinction. It was

September, 1909. -FIRST

Coun<;:il .of tte London and Leicester Private Fire Brigades that t?ey. should at one of their forthcoming meetmgs extend an InVIte to Messrs. Delhaizes' Fire Brigade to send over a detachment of their Brigade. We believe the compliment would be appreciated, and if taken advanof might lead to occasional interchanges of courtesies, whIch would all tend to strengthen those bonds of international peace which our beloved Sovereign is striving so hard to render permanent.

Reviews.

ILLUSTRATED DIAGRAMS FROM WARWICK AND TUNSTALL'S "FIRST AID TO THE SICK AND INJURED."

From. the Messrs. Wright & Co., Bristol, we have recelved a copy of these excellent diagrams. We have on a prevlOus occaSlOn spoken in appreciative terms of them advocated their adoption by the newly formed Terntonal Forces. Lecturers to classes held in connection with the St. John or the St. Andrew's Ambulance Associations would also find them most useful.

The illustrated diagram for" Transport" has been brought up-to-date, and shows the new drill with six bearers. This fact will doubtless commend the diagrams to officers in charge of St. John Ambulance Brigade units The illustrations are ,yell drawn and clearly executed.

QUESTIONS ON SICK NURSING AND HOME HYGIENE.

This is a handy little compendium, and although compiled primarily, we take it, for those undergoing instruction in connection with the classes of the St. Andrew's Association, it will be found most useful for anyone who is taking up the study of sick nursing. We think that it is rather a pity that an answer is not given for every question, rather than suggesting reference to a text book. As a guide, we thir.k the book should be complete in itself. We are aware this is only a small matter, but the omission to our mind detracts from tbe value of what is really a very valuable catechism. The catechism has been compiled by Dr. D. :vI. Macdonald who is to be congratulated on the care with which tbe work has been done, and we feel sure that he will accept our criticism in good part. The book is published by Messrs. Wright & Co., of Bristol, and the letter-press is as usual, with books emanating from this house, excellent.

AI D.-

student will desire to know, it h.as been carefully and skilfully compressed, and each country IS dealt with under a separate chapter.

The on " Apostolic Succession in the East" is one of the most mterestmg, and will be especially appreciated by student of sacred history. There have been so many hlstone.s the Order of St. J presented in recent years that t?e maJonty of those who are !nterested in its history have but httle to learn, but even they wlll find much to interest them in chapter devoted to Order. The book is carefully pnnted on paper. and m clear type, and it contains several photographlc lllustratlOns, some of which refer to St. John S Church, and are the work of the Vicar's Warden (Mr. H: W. Fmcham), who is himself a student in all that appertams to the history of the Order.

Those the St. John Ambulance Brigade who went to Afnc?- WIll dc.)Ubtless. like to posses a copy of a :"ork which contams an lllustratlon of the historic church 111 whiCh they attende?- Divine Service just prior to their departure for South Africa. The book is published by Elliot Stock,. 62,. Paternoster-row, London. I is bound in cloth, and the prIce IS 2S. 6d. net.

also awarded a Grand Prix at the Internatio,:al ExhibItion of Milan in 1906. In !907. It had the distinguished honour of beIng mspected by M. Hubert Ministre de l'Industrie. et du Travail,' and again

In 1908 It was still further honoured by being inspected by M. Lejeune, ONE OF THE FIRE ENGINES.

Ministre d'Etat, in addition to which many other high have honoured the brigade by a VISIt to its head.have been pleased to express the!r adr:1lratlOn for the admirable system whIch thIS up-to-date firm has installed for the protection of its vast establishment. In conclusion, might we throw out a hjnt to

THE DAWN OF CHRISTIANITY IN CONTINENTAL EUROPE AND THE PLANTING OF THE ST. JOHN ORDER OF THE HOSPITAL OF OF JERUSALEM IN EGLAND.

By S. F. A. Caulfield.

" The majority of the public has neither time nor opportunity for reading exhaustive histories-religious or profanebut might like to obtain a sketch, more or less brief, of the planting of the Christian Faith in Continental Europe, when the several nationali ties were Pagan." It is in these words that the author of this little work introduces it to her readers, and she is right too. We are all desirous of learning all we can about the history of the Early Christian Church-that is, those of us who are interested in her history. But, as a rule, the historian presents us with a work the result, no doubt, of many years of patient research, comprised in many volumes, and teeming with a mass of statistics which are of no interest to the average reader. The little work which is the subject of this review is shorn of these defects, it contains all that tbe average

\Ve have much pleasure in presenting our readers with a portrait of Capt. W. H. Wilson, Chief Officer of the Geelong (Australia) Fire Brigade. This is one of the photographs, 'which our readers will remem ber we referred to in our last issue as having been received by Hon. Capt. W. l\1. Hitchcock, on the anniycrsary of his 77th birthday, from the mem bers of his old brigade.

WEEDON. - A fairly well attended meeting of thoc;e interested in the ambulance movement took place here on August 8th to consider the desirability of forming a divi;;ion of the S.J.A.B. Chief Superintendent Harvey Reeves, of Northam pton, attended and explained the objects of the Brigade, which, in the: main, were generally approved, and he was cordially thanked for his attendance. Dr. Sedgewick afterwards presented a number. of first aid certificates.

We are in no way respon si ble Jor the opinions expressed, or th e sta t em ents made, by Corre sp ondents.-EDITORS.

N o V I. DISTRICT AND THE RESIGNATION OF COLO N EL GIBBON.

D EA R SIR, - I was ple a sed to -see your s cathing comments o n the re cent I nspec tion at Gosforth Park. Reading between the lines, now it is not diffi c ult to see what led up to the resi g nation of Colonel Gibbon. Loyalty is undoubtedly a grand vi rtue, but I would like to point out that there is such a thing as loyalty to one s chief, as well as to the org anisation to which one belongs. I t was intended, I suppose, that the Gosforth Park Review should cause a revulsion of feeling against the late Deputy- Commissioner. If that is so, I can assure the prin cip a ls con cerned th a t it has had q uite the contrary effect. The g eneral feel in g , of those who believe in upholdin g the us ual courte s ies , whi ch should g overn all public a c tions, is one of contempt, not altog ether unmixed with pity, that the people who brou g ht about Colonel G ibbon s resi g nation should have celebrated their vic tory with su ch indecent haste \ Ve dwellers in the North are sometimes re g arded as being defi c ie nt in those little courtesies which are said to be so preva lent in the South But, in this recent display of bad taste, I do not think think th a t the South has reason to pride itself on the a c tion of its r epresentative. He, at any rate, would have s hown better ta s te, had he have waited until next year before comin g north, to sound the clarion of his triumph. Like yours elf, !VI r. Editor, I prefer to wait events.-Yours fafthfully,

"

ORTH ERN LI GHT S "

THE LO I DON C OUNTY COUNCIL AND M R SID N E Y GAMBLE.

D EA R SIR ,- As a member of the British F ire Ser\'ice, I de s ire to a ssoci a te m yself with the views expressed in your last iss ue upon the last dis g ra c eful job perpetrated at Spr ing G a rdens. I t is somewhat interesting to note that both the old e s ta b lished journ a ls wh ch profess to uphold the interests of the F ire Service are di screetl y silent and refrain from any adverse c rit ic ism on the a c tion of the Council. Why is it, I wonder ? Rumour hath it that representing, as the y do, the interes ts of the riv a l m a nufac turers it would be detrimental to those interest s sh o uld the y dare t o call into question the action of a body wh ich is one of their pr in c ipal customers. This may be so, and, of cour s e, the proprietors of the journals concerned know what best suits their book. But, for heaven's sake don't let them run their precious papers on false lines. Let them boldly announce that they are representati ve of the interests of Fire Servi ce, in so far as the question does not affec t their own intere s ts as contractors to the several municipalities of the Un ted Kingdom.

Once more thanking you for the outspoken way in which you dealt with this subject, and assuring you that it IS appreCIated by firemen of all grades, both professional and volunteer.-I am, dear Sir, yours faithfully, J. D.

S.

THE BRITISH RED CROSS AND THE S.J.A.B.

D EAR SIR,-I am loth to trouble you again, but I, along other our Nursing Division, am naturally not a lIttle anxIous as to what is proposed to be done With regard to the enrolment of women in First Aid Corps as an ad j unct to the Territorial Force?

The remarks of some of the advocates of the new movement :vvoulc;llea d one to assume that there was no such organisation 111 e XIstence as th.e St. J ohn Brigade! Cannot you find out, Mr. Editor, whether there IS any place for OLlr dis-

AI D.- September, 1909.

c iplined corps of Nursing Sisters, or must we, if we desire to be or s ervi ce to our country, join the new org ani s ation in the s ame way that the lat est fir s t a iel pupil will be re ceived ?

The new movement seems to have the sympathy of the St. John Ambulance Association. What are those in charge of the Brigade doin g to safeguard its interests? A short time ago it appeared as though only the interests of the Nursing Sisters were at stake. But, if I read the aims of the Red Cross people aright, the status of the men s brigades is now equally threatened. I shall look anxiously for this month s FIR ST Am in the hope of learning something that will set at rest this present feeling of inde c ision as to the future.- Yours truly, "A NUR SIN G OFFICER."

THE PRESENT CAP.

DEAR SIR, I should like to express my opinion about the caps worn by members of the S.J.A.B.

The forage cap is not a very suitable one to wear at duty parades, bec ause when you have worn it a few hours it generall y beg ins to mak e your heaJ ache, especially if the day is a very hot one, and should you happen to be out when it is rainmg the water runs off the cover down the back of your ne c k.

The fatigue cap also is not very suitable, as it only covers part of your head; the best part about it is, on a cold night you can let it down and cover your ears up.

A few of your correspondents seem to favour the new cap that the territorials have been supplied with. For my own p a rt I shoul d like to see a new design altogether.

I should also like permission to be given to have two breast po c kets on the tunic, so that small articles could be ca rr ied in them without as mu c h risk of losing them as when c arr ied in the pou c h.

At the same time I should like to suggest that sick nursing badge s a nd serv ice bad g es be made of metal instead of the present !:tyle, which, when worn for any length of time, c hange their colour and soon be g in to unravel.

I think you could add a new and interestin g feature to your paper b y a skin g for a mu s ing anecdotes on "first aid " to be s ent in, and offer ing a small pri ze for the best one sent in every month.-Yours truly, " VORTEX. "

A 71S'Zve 1'S t o Cor resp on d enls.- The statement made at Headcorn < , That th e Ashford Ambulance Corps was the first corps started in England " is contrary to fact, and we should think that no one there knew this better than the gentleman who made the assertion. You may take it from us as an indisputable fact that the first civilian ambulance corps to be formed in this country was that at Margate, which was formed in 1880 by Mr. Church Brasier, prior to his appointment on the staff at St. John's Gate. We have verified this statement, so we are certai n as to its accuracy.

Hon. Capt. Hitchcock who has a sincere admiration for courage and devotion to duty in connection with the Fire Brigade Service, and who has on previous occasions rewarded members of the Service who have shown these qualities in a marked degree, has decided to present to the officers and men of the Naples Fire Brigade two handsome bronze medals, in recognition of the courage and devotion which they displayed in connection with the calamitous earthquate at Messina. Splendid service was rendered by them for many days, in rescuing at very great personal risk half buried people, and also in rendering aid and succour to the injured. The medals are three Inches in diameter, the one bears striking portraits of King Edward and Queen Alexandra in bold relief, while the other has engraved upon it a suitable inscription; whilst in the centre of the handsome case in which they are contained, is a four inch plate of sterling silver, on which is engraved the names of all who so nobly helped succour their fellows in the hour of disaster. It is intended that the medals shall be officially presented at Naples at an early

FIRST AID

The Independent Journal for the Ambulance and Fir e Se rvi ces.

To Our Readers.

As it is the wi sh and desire of the Pr oprietors to make this J ournal as instructive and entertaining as possible, correspondents in all parts of the country are asked to give it ail the help they ca n. Superintendents of Corps and Officers of Division s of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, Officers of the Royal Army Medical Corps (Territorials), the Volunteer Ambulance School of Instruction, and Chief Officers of Fire Brigades will, it is hoped, do their best to make it known amongst the members of their respective organisations, and will also send for publication their official news and notices. Suggestions are invited for Prize Competitions and other matters which will advance the interest of the] ournal.

We particularly desire to ask our corresponden ts to be brief and to the point in any communications they may send us for pu blication.

Correspondents sending in photos are urgently requested to state on the back of the same the name of the individual or the Corps or Brigade and give also the name and address of the sender.

We beg to advise our readers that we do no pay for ph otographs or copy sent, unless previ ously agreed up on in writing.

" First Aid" is published on the 20th of the month.

EDITORIAL.

THE question has been asked of us:

Organisation which already exists 10 the St. John Ambulance Brigade.

The Nursing Sisters of St. John and

" Are you opposed to the scheme of the British Red Cross Society, which proposes to make it possible for every man the Voluntary and woman in this country to acquire a Aid Detach- knowledge of first aid and nursing, ments. thereby enabling them to be in a position to assist the defensive forces of the Crown in time of National Emergency?" In answer to our correspondent who puts to us this query, our reply is-certainly not. The extension of am bulance teaching amongst all class e s of the community has always been advocated by this Journal, and any method which will assist in this object should surely receive our support. We do not cavil that the British Red C'TOSS Society should, at last, have awakened to the sense of its responsibilities, and should have decided to spend some of its wealth in thE: promotion of ambulance teaching, and the development of Red Cross work generally, in cur own country. Our objection is that the War Office Authorities and the British Red Cross Society, when formulating their scheme for Territorial Ambulance Service for men and women, have apparently ignored the splendid National

We are, of course, quite aware that by the formation of the Military Home Hospitals Reserve and the Royal Naval Sick Berth Reserve, the Brigade has in part been already recognised, but our contention is that it should receive recognition as a whole. Where is the recognition for the Nursing Sisters of the Brigade? In what way have the splendid services rendered to the community for so many years by this band of devoted women been recognised? They are given the opportunity of joining these newly formed Voluntary Aid Detachments, in just the same way in which the merest novice in ambulance work may join them. We say, without fear of contradiction, their services in the past entitled them to anticipate greater consideration, and the authoriti e s should have recognised their self-denying labours in a more g e nerous manner. The members of the Nursing Profession engaged in civil life, who have placed their services at the disposal of the authorities, have had their claims to special consideration recognised-and justly so- by the formation of a special nursing reserve, under the direct patrona g e ot our beloved Queen, and designated" Queen Alexandra's Army Nursing Reserve"? Is it not possible to enrol the Nursing Sisters of the St. John Am bulance Briga de in a special nursing reserve, under the patronage of the Royal Consort of H.R.H. the Prince of Wales, Grand Prior of the Order of St. John, with the title of " The Prin c ess of Wales' Auxilliary Army Nursing Reserve." The distinction asked for would not, we feel sure, be resented in any way by the mem bers of the Nursing Profession, who are already highly honoured in the position assigned to them, while on the other hand it is one which would give the liveliest satisfaction to the nursing units of the Ambulance Brigade, inasmuch as it would add lustre to their organisation, and thereby increase their desire to maintain at its highest the efficiency of every unit in the Brigade.

In support of the claim on the part of the Nursing Divisions to special treatment, it must be borne in mind that the members are not novices at the art of nursing. Many of them have been connected with the Brigade for a great number of years, during which period they have assisted in the nursing of the sick poor in their respective

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towns and villages, added to which many of them have done invaluable first aid work in the public streets, on the occasions of great public holidays, and also at the ambulance stations, which are form e d by the Brigade on the large open spaces in and around London, and other large towns on Bank Holidays and similar o ccasions, when the casualties dealt with are such, that the training required in the treatment of them would especially qualify the St. John's Nursing Sisters for service in the field.

In concluding these remarks, we wish once more to emphasise the fact that we are in cordial sympathy with any effort which has as its aim the extension of ambulance tea ching, and in this sense we wish all success to the new movement. We rejoice to think that the two organizations -the St. John Ambulance Association and the British Red Cross Society- have resolveJ to work in unison in this nlatter. That being so it should not, we assume, be difficult to bring about something on the lines we have suggested. We plead for just, or rather generous, treatment for those who in the past have been- in many instances at the expense of their own pocket- carrying out the great principles which the Red Cross Society has now, somewhat tardily, reso lved to promote and foster.

Railway Ambulance Transport.

IN connection with the recent development of civilian ambulance work in its relation to the defensive forces of the Crown, it is obvious that the railway companies of Great Britain, and the men employed in working them would, in case of -invasion, be called upon to play an important part in the transport of the sick and wounded. Whi!e we are still inclined to think that such a contingency as the invasion of these islands is a very remote one, it is neve rtheless as well, perhaps, that we should in every possible way be prepared to cope with such an emergency, we certainly do not share the pessimistic views of the latest apostles of the Red Cross creed, who are proclaiming far and wide, that with regard to ambulance methods this country is practically quite unprepared to cope with the casualities which would occur.

To only one branch of the community, the railway we make bold to assert that on no railway system In the world is am bulance training so universal or as it is in our own country. While maintaining that thIS IS S?, .we .a re ready to admit that a more thorough of traIning In ambulance railway transport is perhaps oeslrable, and therefore at the request of some of our readers, who are interested in ambulance work on our various railways, we propose to give a series of articles dealing with this all important subject, in order that the on the different railways may study the and Incorporate the necessary instruction for more tfficlent transport training and carry them out in conjunction with their other practIses.

We believe the directors and chief officials would rea?ily accord to such a scheme their approval and give it th e Ir whole hearted support, for in addition to enabling them to be prepared for the remote contingency to which we have already referred, in the event of a serious catas-

AID.- October, 1909.

trophe happening on any of the railways, the methods for the removal of the injured, learnt at these practises, might prove invaluable.

The descriptive details of the various methods now in use will be fully described and explained, and in addition to this, we have no doubt that among the railway read ers of this journal, there are some who have on their own initiative worked out plans for coping with a similar emergency, and we shall have pleasure, providing any such scheme was not only original but also thoroughly effective, in including a descriptive account of the method in our columns.

Fortunately, this country is most adequately served by railways, and this in the event of invasion would be of immense service, not only in the matter of expediting th e mobilisation of the troops, but also in the more rapid conveyance of the sick and wounded to the general hospitals. Col. Furse says in his work on Military Transport, "Did railways offer us in war no other advantage but improv e d means for removing a large number of sick speedily, with ease and comfort, this of itself alone would be a great boon. The spreading of the sick over a large tract of country where a railway is at ha.nd becomes possible, they n eed no longer be massed in large numbers in crowded and pestilential hospitals, and being subdivided into small groups, miles away from the front, can be more adequately cared for."

In the "Manual of Ambulance Transport " it is claimed by the editor of the revised edition that no clas s of passenger carriages on English railways are suitabl e for receiving into them badly wounded or sick p erso ns, wh o would require to be carried into them on stretchers in a recumbent position, on account of the narrowness of the doorways. "The coors of second and third class carriages," says the writer, "vary in width, from tw e nty to twenty-two inches ; the width of first-class carriage doors varies from twenty-two to twenty-four inches. A m a n of average si ze, walking face forwards, and having command over all the movements of his body, requires twenty-one inches for a clear passage; so that it is only by assuming a certain slanting direction as he moves through the doorway that a moderately stout person can enter into either kind of carriage." Now with all due deference to the writer of this paragraph, we venture to assert that the second-class departments on nearly all our railways can be, and are, constantly utilised for the conveyance of invalids in a recumbent Dosition on stretchers. \Ve believe the secondclass are to the first-class mainly on account of the fact that there are no arms dividing the seats, but where these are made to lift up, we see no reason why one class should not be as readily available as the other.

As regards the narrow width of the doors, if before placing the stretcher in compartment, it is lowered on to the gro und and the traverse bar slightly reduced-this can be easily accomplished and-provided it is carried out with care, the patient will suffer no inconvenience. The reduction having been made the four bearers steadily raise the stretcher, each with one hand grasping the pole, and with the other holding the traverse bar, in order to prevent a further reduction. When placing the stretcher in the compartment it is advisable that the patient should be lifted head first, the leading bearer on the right will tRke up a position at the head of the stretcher, with his back to the door, and grasp the traverse bars with both hands, and the left-ha nd bearer at the foot of the stretcher will in like manner grasp the trav erse bars at the foot, while the other two bearers will take up a position, one on either side in the centre of the stretcher, and grasp the poles of the

October, [909.

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stretcher with both hands, dividin g the weight equally between them.

The bearer with the head of the stretcher now gets mto !he compartment as it is necessary to step backward he Will have to be careful, no attempt should be made to hurry the movement. Once inside he retires to the extreme end of th e carriage and the rear -e nd bearer then follows him into the entry, both bearers now pull out the traverse bars and lock them, they then carefully lower the stretcher on to one of the sea ts of the compartment. Two wooden battens now placed across from seat to seat, to support the off-slde of the stretchp.r, and the patient will travel as comfortably as in an invalid saloon. Tte methods of unloading are similar.

Of course it might be argued that in the case of an emergency involving the removal of a large number of pati.ents, the just outlined would occupy a great deal of time per patient, and two, or at the most three could be conv eye d in eac h compartment. Of course it be that this be a drawback to rapid working, but It must be borne m mmd that sleeping cars of an improve d pattern are coming into more constant use on most of our railways, and these would, no doubt first be utilised for th e more seriously injured. '

Some years ago the general manager of the London and North Western Railway, in reply to a query as to the capabilities of the English railwa ys to provide adequat e accommodation for th e removal of a large number of persons in case of wrote as follows :-

" I may say, how ever, that having regard to the large stock of sleeping carriages and invalid carriages, and the ample supply of bedding of all kinds in the possession of English railway companies, I think there is no reason to doubt that if ever the emergency should arise we should be found equal to it, and that we should be able to make up and run suitable ambulance trains for sick and wounded men, with conve?ient accommodation for doctors, nurses, &c., without any dlfficulty. "

For all practical purposes we believe that our railways would be equal to the demands made upon them, but it must be borne in mind that besides providing for the removal of the sick and wounded away from th e scene of operations, they would in addition be almost continuously engaged in the conveyance of troops to the front, under these circumstances, it might be necessary to utilise the railway wagons which are in ordinary use for the conveyance of merchandise. There are several methods for converting these into fairly comfortable ambulance cars, and we propose to give details of those which a re recognised as being most suitable.

ZAVODOVSKY'S SYSTEM.

This method is a most efficient and convenient form of adapting a railway wagon for the reception of the sick and wounded, and it has also the advantage of being economical. The materials required are few in number and of the simplest character, and by easy manipUlation are readily put together and converted into a valuable means of transport for sick or injured persons. This method was the invention of Major-General Zavodovsky, after whom it is named.

In order to adopt this method it is necessary to select wagons the interior of which are free from all projecting obstructions, and as a result goods wagons are generally adopted, but the method can be applied to any covered wagon, provided all the fittings are removed. The lighter the springs and the easier the carriage the better will be the transport by this plan. This method has at times been unfavourably commented upon, but the defects have

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invariably been du e to th e class o f wagons being unsatisfactory, or to th e arrang.ements being improperly fixed, rather than to. any defect m the system itself.

In the Nde Campaign this system was adopted for the of the sick and 'Nounded from Wady HaIfa to and was found fIlOst satisfactory as tending to minimlse the effect of the vibration fr om the wagons.

England each goods wagon to which it has been fitted IS capable of holding at least eig ht patients, but there

is no actual limit to th e num ber carried-this depends upon the length and width of the vehicle. Ev e n in the goods wagon commonly us e d twelve patients could, if necessary, be accommodated. The material required to fit up a goods wagon is as follows :-Eight large blunt hooks taped the ends to take nuts, four It in. cables 8 ft. long, with Iron hound eyelet holes at each end , four 4 in. ash poles 7 ft. 6 in. long, 75 yards of strong cording, a strand of cobbler's thread , and a pie': e of wax, and 24 iron screw rings, with 25 yards of light cord.

The blunt hooks sh ould be made of the very best material, as it will be upon them that the greatest weight and strain will be thrown. Should an accident occur owing to the snapping of one of these hooks, it might, and indeed most probably would, be accompanied by most serious consequences. The depth of the hook (Fig. I) should be 6 in. and its width 5 in., and it should pass through a plate which is affixed to th e side of the wagon, thus steadying the hook and scr ew, which, throu gh the plate, should be fastened securely on the outside by a washer a nd

nut. As an alternative to th e previous arrangement a ring may be utilised in place of the hook, in which case a hook must be affixed to th e cable. Of th e two methods the latter is the least desirable, as with a fixed hook more security is established, addp.d to which, it is not liabl e to be shifted by the movement of the train.

With the hook fixed as shown in the accompanying sketch, the fastening more nearly approaches that of tw o rings joined together than in the other method. When screwed into the side of the wagon the hooks should be

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distant 6 ft. 4 in. from each other, and 9 in. fr?m the It is possible to improvise the necessary by bonng holes in the side of the wagon, and tytng the cable by cord run through the eyelet hole and fixed round one of the beams of the framework of the carriage. The stretchers in use should correspond, one to the other on the opposite side.

The cables should be between 7 ft. 6 in. and 8 ft. in len gt h, but should never exceed the latter. It cable is the best material, and each should termmate WIth a loop having an iron bearilJg (Fig. 2). On the of this cable will depend in a great measure the reltabIllty of the arrangement and the comfort of the patient. Should the cable be too long the nearer it will approach to the FIG.2 floor of the wagon, and the more confined will the patients be. In the event of their proving too long the difficulty may, to a certain extent be minimised by soaking the cable in water, or it may be altogether overcome by fixing the hooks higher up on thc sides of the wagon. The cables are placed across the vehicles on corresponding hooks. The accurate fixing of the hooks a nd the cables is of the utmost importance that which follows is extremely simple.

(To be contimted.)

A I D.·- Octo ber, 19°9.

gave a brief report of the work of the class during the year 1908-9, and the Chairman said they were all pleased at the success of the Welsh pool team, and they desired to tender their thanks to Mr. Conacher for presenting the members with silver medals.

The medals, which bore on the one side a miniature representation of the shield and on the other a suitable inscription, were then handed to each member of the team by Mr. Conacher, who, in expressing his pleasure at taking part in the proceedings, referred to an experience which he had many years ago, and which convinced him of the importance of ambulance instruction on railways. The guard of the train from Oswestry to Aberystwyth had the misfortune while at Forden station to be seriously injured by falling underneath the train, and before skilled hElp was available the poor fellow bled to death. Had his comrades possessed the knowledge which those present possessed that unfortunate guard might have been alive today. At the time to which he was referring, ambulance instruction outside military circles was almost unknown, and it was some years before the desire for am bulance instruction in civil life became general. He was glad to find, how that he was once more associated with the Cambrian Railway, that much progress in ambulance work had been made on the line. It was admirable work, and a knowledge of it might prove of inestimable value to anyone of them, and be the means of saving some fe llow's life.

October, 1909. -FIRST keencess with which he was tackling the difficult job of making t.he Cambrian a highly paying concern. Like many other rallways they had suffered from bad times but he did feel that if anybody could make their lme a they had certainly now got the right man in the right place.

The resolution was seconded by Mr. Alfred Jones.

In replying, Mr. Conacher said it was gratifying to him to be able to do something to help on the ambulancp. cause. Lord Powis had referred to wider work, which was hard work, perhaps even harder work than ambulance work. His Lordship had held out glowing expectations, which it might be difficult to realise, but he should do his best. In concluding, he asked the meeting to accord its best thanks to Lord Powis for presiding, and the interest which his Lordship took in ambulance work. The vote was seconded by Dr. Skinner, and carried, and in replying, Lord Powis expressed the thanks of the local centre to Dr. Skinner fo r all his devoted services on its behalf.

The following is the text of the vellum vote of thanks, which was presented to Colonel D e nniss :-

AID.- 53

sident of the division, and he was supported by the Mayor (Alde.rman W. P. Spalding), Dr. Apthorpe Webb, Messrs. G. Klmm, F. Hayward, E. H. Essame, F. Holditch, H. F. Read, J. Wh eaton, J. Tyler, T. G. Peake and A. W. Page, Inspectors Harradine and P eacock, A. R. Bishop R. Elsdon, &c.

The evening's programme was contributed to by Messrs. Caldecott, Stageman, Cook, Page, F. Pryor, H. Pamplin, H. Goodwin Hunt and the Beaconsfield Male Choir. Th e accompanists were Messrs. Percy Powell and V. King. The Chairman distributed th e certificates and medallions shortly after the commencement of th e evening's programe.

Mr. Bishop, in thanking the officers and committee for their support, and also the President and Mr. Kimm for attendance at the lec tures, said :-" Last year the dlvlSlon treated 109 cases before th e arrival of a doctor and obtained 8th place in th e competition."

CAlIIBRIAN.-An interesting gathering took place in tbe Board -room at Welshpool Station on September 29th, when Mr. J. Conacher, the newly-elected Chairman of the Company, presented silver medals to the members of the Welsh pool team, which this year won the Cambrian Railway Ambulance Shield. Opportunity was taken of the to present to Col. Denniss, the General Manager of the lme, t he vellum vote of thanks awarded to him by the Grand Pnory of the Order of St. John, in recognition of his services on behalf of the ambulance cause. The Earl of Powis presided, and was supported by Mr. Conacher, Col. Denniss, and others.

In opening tht proceedings, the Chairman said it was a matter for gratification that the Cambrian Railway men took so great an interest in ambulance work. It was a first rate institution, and by its teaching pain and suffering was often alleviated. They welcomed amongst them for the first time the Chairman of the Company, and he felt sure that the members of the Welsh pool team were pleased that they were to rec ei ve their medals at his hands. Since last they met they had lost the valuable services of Mr Andrew. It was gre.atly due to his hard work, and the interest he had taken tn the centre, that it had proved so successful, and he felt sure that all those present deplored his loss.

Mr. A. Jones, the secretary of the Welshpool Class,

The presentation of the "Vellum Vote of Thanks " to Col. Denniss came next, and in the course of a few remarks Lord Powis sa id he had been specially asked to make the presentation to Col. Denniss, and he could not think of a more fitting opportunity than the present one. As they were all aware, the order of St. John was one of the oldest orders of chivalry, and it was a matter for much congratulation to them to think that it had so suitably acknowledged the services which Col. Denniss had ren° dered to the ambulance cause. At the same time that he received the letter asking him to make that pres e ntation, he also received a letter requesting him to convey to Mr. Andrew, who had unfortunately died the week previously, the thanks of the Order for the work he had d :me. It was a matter for regret to them to think that this recognition of the work of Mr. Andrew came too late for him, but it would be gratifying to his family to know that the honour had been conferred.

In acknowledging the honour conferred upon him, Col. Denniss said it was perhaps unnecessary for him to say how much he valued it, but he should like them to know that he should value it all the more because it was his privilege to receive it at the hands of Lord Powis. For many years past he had regarded am bulance work as being of the greatest possible importance. He first received inst.ruction at the hands of Dr. Cureton, and it was through hlm that he 1ualified and received his certificate. Since time he had done what he could to encourage those With whom he had been associated to acquire a knowledge of ambulance work, and on the Cambrian Railway he thought they had done remarkably well still he hoped the time was not far distant when all men of the traffic and l?comotive staffs, and, indeed, all engaged in working that hne would be fully qualified ambulance men.

In pro!=,osing a vote of thanks to Mr. Conacher Lord Powis said Mr. Conacher was an old friend of the Ca'mbrian Railway, although he was starting again as a new one. his chairmanship the company he hoped would be ':lnder more favourable and happy auspices; by hiS actlOn that day he had shown that he took an interest in the employe, and he could personally testify to the

" The Grand Priory of the Order of the Hospital of St. John of in England. Extracts of the minutes of a meeting of the Chapter General, held on the 25th May, 19°9, at St. John'S Gate, Clerkenwell, London. Resolved th a t the special thanks of H.R.H. the Grand Prior and the Chapter General be her eby conveyed to Colonel Charles Sherwood Denniss, of the Cambrian Railways Centre, St. John Ambulance Association, for ciistinguished services rend e red in furth e rance of the work of the Ord er in connection with its Ambulance Department. Dated this tw e nty-fifth day of May, one th o usand nine hundred and nine. George P., Grand Prior Knutsford, Chancellor Herbert J ekyll, Secretary."

G.E.R. - Si g ns are not wanting that a keen interest is being taken in connection with the ambulance work of this centre. A double course of first aid lectures was commenced by Dr. J. c. Harcourt, at Canning Town Station, on September 28th last, and at the Company's Sack and Sheet Factory, Squirrel's Heath, Romford, Dr. H. J. Forster, of that town, is delivering a course of first aid lectures to the Company's female employes. This is the second First Aid Class for women held in connection with the centre, the first was held at the Colchester L a undry as long ago as 19°4.

On Monday eve ning, September 27th, in connection with the Bishopsgate Division of th e G.E.R. Ambulance Corps, an evening concert was held when Mr. G. S. Monk, Stationmaster, Bishopsgate Goods Station, occupied the chair, and was supported by Dr. J. c. Harcourt and others.

Mr. F. Chudleigh Candish acted as pianist and an interesting programme of songs and duets was pres e nted by an array of talented artistes including the Misses Kitty Broad, Annie Kingson and Jessie Brand, and Messrs. H. Robins, F. Fuller, S. A. Ralph, H. Carpenter, H. Roe and A. Sampson.

The stewards included Mr. W. Clayden, secretary of the Division and se veral Divisional officers and members.

A smoking concert was held in connection with th e Cambridge Division at "Ye Olde Castle Hotel, Cambridge, on Saturday, October 9th, when certificates and medallions won in an examination held at the commencement of the year were pres e nted. Twenty-six entered for the examination and 23 passed, thanks to the instruction of Dr. Apthorpe Webb, the hon surgeon.

The chair was taken by Mr. A. C. Hutcherson, pre-

The Mayor, in the course o f his rem arks, congratulated Dr. Webb on the interest he had taken in the corps, and thE. useful wo rk he had perforned. He was of opinion that mem bers of that am bu lance corps were engaged in far more meritorious work than merely contributing money to local institutions. He was delighted to hear from the report that something like over a hundred cases had been assisted and relieved during the year, as this, perhaps mea nt that lives had been preserved until dealt with by sk ill ed medical men. In conclusion, the Mayor, as first magistrate of the town, tendered on behalf of the town sincere and warm thanks to the corps.

In r ep ly, Dr. W ebb pointed out that it was one thing to ge t book knowledge, but quite another to apply it at the necessa,y time, and if th ey could not do the latter the know ledge was of no us e whatever. Hence the necessity for practising. The G.E.R. corps had won a proud position in the am bulance world. The Cam bridge men had reached fifth place for th e G. E. R. Cup, and he had great hopes of getting higher still. If they were willing to work he was perfectly willing to give the time and instruction so far as he was able.

"The President" was the last toast honoured, and was submitted by 1\1r. Ha yward, who spoke of Mr. Hutcherson's interest in the work.

Mr. Hutcherson briefly responded, and thanked the artistes for th e ir services that evening.

G. W.R. - At the Carlton Hall, on October 4th, Dr. J. M. Carvell was presented with a silver fruit dish, which had been subscribed for by the London members of the G.W.R. Centre. In making the presentation Mr. A. E. Evans, of the Audit Office, commented on the many kindness es shewn them by Dr. Carvell, and the great assistance he had rendered to the members from time to tim e, and asked the Doctor to accept this little token as a proof of the great es t eem in which they held him.

Dr. Carvell, in reply, expressed his thanks to all present for their kind gift and hoped that he might long be ab!e to furth e r instruct the me mb ers of the G. W. R. Centre in a mbulance and sa nitation work.

M. R - The a nnual meeting of the As ociation of R ailway Ambulance Corps was held on Sunday, Sept. 19 th at the" Coach and Horses Inn, " Humbej stone There were about thirty-five delegat es present represer.tmg all the large centres, viz :-London, Nottin gham, Leicester, Derby, Leeds, Birmingham, Morecambe, Manchester, Gloucester, &c.

-FiRST

In his opening address the (Mr.. Shrive, Nottingham,) referred to the work which the Society been endeavouring to carry out during the past year, In order to foster and encourage the am bulance movement on a Rail way, the authorities of which had not taken that interest in the movement which was shown by other Companies. He had hopes, however, that in the near future there would be an alteration so far as this Compal)y was concerned. With regard to the matters which would be presented for discussion he hoped they would look at them from all points, and he could assure them that whatever their decision might be, the officers would endeavour to carry out their wishes.

The minutes were then read and confirmed, and several letters vf apology for non-attendance were also read.

It was resolved that a deputation be appointed to wait upon the Board of Directors relative to several matters affecting the mem bers of the Association, and the best wishes of the Conference were expressed for its success.

It was decided that the next annual meeting should be held in Leeds, At this stage of the proceedings the members adjourned for dinner, and, upon resuming at 2 p.m., the Secretary read his annual report and balancesheet, the latter showing a deficit on the year's working amounting to '£2 18s. 8J. This unfortunate state of affairs was due to serious loss sustained by the Association over the competition in July last, which owing to the inclement weather proved a financial failure, and resulted in a deficit of nearly £50.

In his report the Secretary (Mr. T. R. Scott) referred to the loss sustained by the Society, but said he felt sanguine that they would soon be in as sound a financial position as they were before the loss, as the j l,Tutting ham Dail.Y E.xpress had kindly opened a subscription list on their beha lf. It was also reported that challenge cups and shields had been received from his Grace the Duke of Portland, LJrd Henry Bentinck, Sir Joseph Bright and Mr. lies, of the Champion ! ournal, London. In conclusion, the Secretary expressed the hope hat every corps affil iated to the Society would work for its success, and take an active part in its business, by instructing their representatives to attend the meetings.

The balance-sheet and report were duly passed, and after the auditors had presented their reports, it was moved and that the Secretary be thanked for his Interesting report and for his valuable advice.

The were then and with the exception of one slight amendment to admit of the election of an assistant secretary, were passed as read.

It was decided to hold the competitions next year at Nottingham, and an interesting programme of events was submitted and approved.

The election of officers resulted as follows :-President, Mr. G. Nottingham; Secretary, Mr. T. R. Scott, Nottingham; Assistant Secretary, Mr. J. Malin, Derby; Treasurer, Mr. E. S Preed, Leeds. The following were the Committee :- Messrs. T. Pike (Bromsgrove), Wlgg1l1gton (Derby), F. Blackham (Leicester), Nixon (St. Pancras), Lodge (Chesterfield),. Downing (Mansfield), George (West Hampstead). Auditors: Messrs. Col1ingbourne (Nottingham) and Bromage (Sheffield).

It was unanimous}y resolved that the Secretary be awarded the sum of £ 2 J as. for the valu'l.ble services he had rendered during the past year.

S.E. & C.R.-Once more have to tender our

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heartiest congratulations to the Office-bearers and Committee of this Centre on the very excellent Report which they have issued. To quote from its own pages :-" It is very pleasing indeed to record the fact, that the year just closed has been one of unqualified progress, not only in regard to the number of new members joining the classes, but also as far as the general proficiency of the members of the Centre is concerned."

Most interesting details concerning the growth of the Centre are given, and the statistics tend to sbow that the progress made has been general over the whole system, a gratifying fact that is no doubt largely due to the systematic way in which the work has been carried out, as evidenced by the methodical way in which arrangements for the conduct of the classes, and the grouping system adopted in connection with the annual competitions are made. One special point of more than passing interest in connection with the ambulance work of this Centre is the spontaneous action on the part of the Stationmasters as showing their practical sympathy with the moveme'1t by raising among themselves the sum of tEn guineas, which they handed over to the Committee to be utilised in such a manner as the members should elect in furtherance of the movement. This action should serve to show the rank and file how greatly their efforts are appreciated by those immediately in authority over them. We are glad to see that special stress is laid on the fact that w hen invalid passengers are required to be moved to and from the trains, care is to be tJ.ken that as fell as practicable, the services of qualified am bulance men are to be utilised, in order that the removal may be effected with the least possible discomfort to the patient. This is a point which canr.ot be too widely known, for we should say that no railway carries a larger number of invalids over its system, especially during the season when so many invalids are travelling to and from the Continent. We do not know whether the same rule applies to the sailors on the boats of the company, but if not we think it would be as well that it should do Sf'. Many a nervous invalid would feel less nervous when being carried on board did they but know that the sailors who were responsible for their safe conduct were careful and skilled ambulance men.

Allusion is made to the honour recently conferred upon the popular Secretary of the Centre, Mr. Ernest Richards, by his selection as an Honorary Serving Brother of the Order of St. John, an honour which all who know his interest, energy and enthusiasm, will agree was never more worthily bestowed or more thoroughly deserved.

We would especially congratulate the Committee on the careful way in which the Report has been compiled and also upon the excellence of the letterpress. The portraits of the executive ofucers of the Centre, and the Centre Committee, which are also presented, will we are sure be appreciated by the ambulance men of the Company.

We cannot better conclude this brief notice than by re-echoing the sentiments of the Secretary of the Centre when speaking at the annual dinner: "Let every member feel that he is a part of the machinery of the Centre, and that he is individually responsible for its success. If they will only accept that position and induce others to join the classes, then the Centre will assuredly make progress."

On Saturday, Septem ber I th, a large party of ambulaace men from Ashford joined the Charing class in giving a demonstration in first aid work. On this occasion the appliances which were purchased out of the funds, which accrued from the concert which was held last year, were used. They consist of a "Clemetson" stretcher,

October, 1909. -FIRST

and an am bulance basket, containing all the necessary appliances. Many difficult cases were given the men to treat, by Dr. Nolan, of Charing, and Dr. F. Coke, of Ashford, who supervised the work, and at its conclusion spoke bighly of the manner in which the several supposed injuries had been treated.

I n proposing a vote of thanks to the medical gentlemen for their presence and kind assistance, Mr. Henneker, District Secretary, said they all appreciated gentlemen like Dr. Nolan and Dr. Coke, who were always ready to sacrifice their own time and leisure to come and assist them in that work. He was sure that during the coming winter a large number would attend the lectures, which he hoped would again be given by Dr. Nolan. On behalf of the class he desired to thank all those who had helped the movement, especially the Charing Parish Council for the use of the Parish Hall.

Mr. Lockley, Class Secretary, proposed a very hearty vote of thanks to Mr. Richards, the Secretary of their Centre, and to Mrs. Richards for their attendance. Their Secretary had put himself to some inconvenience in order to be present with them that day.

In reply, Mr. Richards said it was a great pleasure to both himself and Mrs. Richards to be with them on that occasion. He congratuh.ted the Charing Class on possessing such valuable equipment. He hoped that it might be a long time before they were callen upon to use them for an actual case, but if that should unfortunately happen, it was gratifying to know that they were there to hand, with a party of men who knew how to use them. He trusted that the men were keeping up their practises in order to maintain their efficiency, for there was nothing he could imagine worse, than a man wearing an ambulance badge, and yet not able to render that assistance which he might be called upon to give at any moment. In acquiring a knowledge of first aid, men were not only learning how to help others, but the whole trend of their training taught them to be better ci tizens, and in the words of the textbook to be resourceful, sympathetic and tactful. If they followed out these principles it would enable them to leave behind them a. record of good work well done.

Among the large company present were Mr. and Mrs. Sayer, who have done so much to assist the class, Colonel Cheesman, Mr. G. Sayer and others.

First Aid Essay Competition.

COLLIERY workers in very large and increasing numbers have become proficient in First Aid work recently, owing to the fact that the authorities have realised the nature of the serious risks and casualties which occur in the mines, and in order to further stimulate an interest in the work, Dr. Hamilton, Chief Surgeon and Supt. of the Newport Corps of the S.J.A.B., suggested that we should have an essay competition relating to a colliery

The competition is open to all interested In ambulance work, and not necessarily confined to those who work in coli ieries.

For the first and second best papers submitted we offer two complete "First Aid" Cases, value 2 IS. and 16s. respectively, as prizes :-

A serious accident has occurred in a large colliery, employing over 1,000 men, which is fitted with the most modern ambulance equipment. An extensive fall of roof has taken place, burying, more or less completely, several

AID.- 55

men. There was no ambulance man working at the spot. You are an ambulance man working in a different district of the mine, and you are summoned to give aid. There are other ambulance men working in various districts of the pit. On arrival you find that several of the injured men have been already extricated from the debris and are laid out in the road (underground). One man (a) who is groaning loudly is found to have a contused wound over the right shin bone. A man (b) by his side is apparently dead; he is not breathing; on a hurried examination you can find no fractures. A boy (c) has both bones of the forearm crushed near the elbow, and his coat sleeve is saturated with blood. A man (d) is unconscious and has a scalp wound.

Several other ambulance men have now arrived. There is a man still partly buried under the debris, which covers him from the middle of his body to his feet. He is conscious, and tells the rescuers that he feels no pain in his legs.

Give your preparations for, and treatment of the above cases, in brief language, from the moment of receiving the call until all the men have been transported to some suitable place. The nearest doctor lives some distance away.

The papers will be adjudicated upon by Dr. Hamilton, and his decision, in conjunction with that of the Editor, in awarding the prizes will be final, and the following conditions must be noted and adhered to:-

An entry must be made under a nOIlt de plume, and the full name and address of the Competitor must also be g iven on a separate sheet of paper.

MS. must be written on one side of the paper only There is no restriction as to the length of the article, but the same should not be unduly extended.

The Editor reserves to himself the right to publish any of the papers submitted for competition, g iv ing due credit to the authors of the same. Any papers selected for publi cat ion will be regarded as the property of the Edi tor, who does not guarantee to return any of them, neither does he hold himself responsible for any papers lost.

Entries for this Competition will close on lVovem ber £oth, £909, and all matter must by that date be in the hands of THE EDITOR FIR ST AID, 46, Cannon-street, London, E.C. The should be "Colliery Competition."

If deemed necessary the Judges may, if agreed, alter or modify or add to these Rules and Conditions.

COLCHESTER. - We are pleased to learn that a committee has been formed to arrange for a competition for the Ambulance Challenge Cup, which was acquired by public subscription some two or three years since. 'ye hope .we may accept this as an intimation the httle fnctlOn which had existed here haa at last subSided.

We have received quite a large number of letters relating to the proposed Voluntary Aid Detachments. We regret, however, that owing to the pre?sure our cannot insert more on this extremely mterestll1g toptC thiS month. We hope, however, to deal very fully with it next month, when we shall give from the of several prominent persons engaged 111 both the ambulance and red cross movements.

-FIRST Brevities.

SPEAKING at the annual meeting of the Furness Railway, Sir James Clark, Bart., Commissioner of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, said, "He did not intend to take .up their time with a detailed account of the aims and aspIrations of the Association. It was, as they knew, an Association whose representatives spread over the whole of our Empire. Still, great as its ramifications were, there was still room for further expansion. He should like to see not only every city and town with its full quota of St. John Ambulance aid, but also every village, with its two or three representatives and the necessary equipment for dealing with any case of first aid and emergency arise. Such aid to his mind was more wanted In the vIllages, which had not always immediately at hand that professional aid outside the Association to rely on that existed in towns and cities. It was true that the whole scheme of the St. John Am bulance Association was based on voluntary service, in the strictest sense still, money was necessary to provide equipment and salaries for those who were required to give their whole time to the work, a certain number of whom would necessarily be required in the management of so great an organisation as theirs. In great Britain there was some forty millions of people. If one fortieth part, one person out of every forty of these, could be moved to contribute one shilling a year (one penny a month) to the funds of the Association, its income would be £50,000 per annum. It was the steady yearly income that was needed. The spasmodic gifts of larger sums from time to time were thankfully received, but they cannot be relied upon for the working expenses."

Staff Surgeon Bean, inspecting a detachment of St. John Ambulance men, volunteers for the Royal Naval Sick Berth Reserve, referred to the question of training. The Medical Director-General, said the gallant officer, had appointed a committee to go into the questio n, and it had heen his privilege to give evidence before that committee. He very much doubted the possibility of a yearly trainin g, but he believed that before long they would establish training every two years. At any rate that would be the thin end of the wedge, and he should not be surprised if it came into operation shortly. It was all a question of money, and they would have to wait until the Budget was passed before they could do anything. He believed by next April they would be able to do something in the matter. Personally, he should like to see a system of training one year in hospital and one year on ship. He assured them he wanted to see them given the opportunity annually, and he felt sure that they wanted it to be so. However, he was glad to see that the Admiralty were going to move in the matter shortly.

By the sudden caving in of a sand pit at Pulborough,

1909.

in which a number of men were at work, a workman received fatal injtHies to which he succumbEd. At the coroner's inquest it came out in evidence that the man who had received terrible injuries was allowed to remain for nearly two hours without any attempt being made to render first aid treatment, with the result that after his arrival at the hospital at Chichester, to which he was taken by train, he succum bed owing to loss of blood. In his evidence, the doctor of the hospital said the arteries of the leg were badly torn, and the man died from shock and loss of blood. If the bleeding had been promptly arrested it would have made all the difference in the result. It is perhaps hardly a matter for surprise, to learn that none of the labourers engaged at the pit, had any knowledge of first aid, the casual workman rarely takes an interest in such matters, but what does surprise one is to learn that the police constable, who arrived on the scene prior to the removal of the man, made no attempt to arrest the hremorrhage.

The Coroner, in summing up, said it was not the first case 0f this kind which they had had in Pulborough, they had one about every year. It was too much perhaps, to expect that everyone should attend first aid lectures, but one would have thought that nowadays, a large percentage of folk would have known what to do, when there was a simple accident of this kind, adding that he was more tt an surprised to learn, that a constable came on the scene and did nothing. Surely the constables in that part of West Sussex had a knowledge of first aid. A constable who was present at the enquiry said the constable in question had had very little service and had not had the opportunity of passing. In recording their verdict, the jury through their foreman, expressed the opinion that, "The sooner they get first aid at Pulbrough the better." An opinion which we unhesitatingly endorse.

* * *

SPEAKING at the annual inspection of the Kettering Corps, Assistant-C ommissioner Woolston said, "The one great thing they carried out day after day, month after month, and year after year, and for which the public could not be too thankful, was their invalid and accident transport service. He thought there was no county in England, at any rate no centre, taking Northampton as the central part of it and the surrounding counties, that had such transport, such a line of wagons as that district possessed. From Northampton to Leicester every few miles there was a horse ambulance, with nursing sisters and men fully trained for the service, ready to turn out night or day at the call of duty, and of doing so voluntarily without fee or reward. They must remember what their obligations now implied, the Navy relied on them to provide a certain number of men for the sick berth reserve, and 800 men had already undergone training. The military home hospital reserve had been placed in their hands, and they were finding the men for that, in fact the numbers had come in wonderfully well he was glad to say. One thing they must realise, all these different schemes being placed

October, 1909.

-FIRST AI D.-

upon their shoulders, they had got to play the game, and play it up to date, and it behoved them to make themselves as proficient as they possibly could so as to be ready not only to attend accidents in civil life, which were occurring every oay, but ready for any call that may be made upon them.

* * *

Since ambulance training was made compulsory uncter the Merchant Shipping Act of last year for all masters and mates, there has been, says the L£v erjool Daily Courier, a wonderful increase in the num ber of candidates entering for examination, and a percentage of successes which is highly gratifying. Liverpool has given the lead in the spread of this eminently useful knowledge am.vngst seamen; indeed, as regards results, she stands hIgher than London. From April last year, when the subject became compulsory, to the end of Decem ber, no fewer than 900 passed as proficient, and the so far, the present year are 3 [I, with only ten fallures. Jack s mstructlOn has not stopped at theory, he has had oppurtunities of showing its practical side. Some time ago an apprentice on one of the Prince Line Steamers sustained a fractured leg by falling into the hold. He received first aid from of the crew-a Liverpool student-a nd when the patIent was landed at Alexandria and taken to the hospital, the surgeon warmly complimented the first aid man upon his skill. Another Liverpool sailor, who had taken the full course of instruction, relieved the sufferings of a ship's dog, a Maltese poodlp, which had broken one of its legs. When asked about his methods he replied, "I treated it the same as I was taught to treat human limbs at the rVlersey Mission Ambulance Class."

Dr. R. J. Collins, J.p., medical superintendent of the Fi.lst Aid Home Nursing, Health, and Infant Care Classes, connected with the Education Committee of the London County Council, has resigned his position.

The Newport Corps (S.J.A.B.) attended St. Luke's Church in conjunction with the Veterans of Newport, on the roth inst. The Rev. D. H. Griffiths was .the preach e r. After the service Viscount Tredegar, who IS one of the very few survivors the famous charge of the LIght Brigade at Balaklava, mspecled. the Veterans. He af[erwards complimented Dr. Hamilton on the smart appearance of the ambulance men. There was a good muster of officers and men.

G.E.R.-An interesting ceremony took place the morning of Sunday, Septem ber r 9th, in one o.f the v.:altmgrooms of the Great Northern Railway StatlOn, Lincoln, when about 20 members of the Great Central Ambulance Class met for the purpose of making to G. Lowe and Mr. Fox for services rendered m with the class. The District Loco. Supt. (Mr. W. WrIght) made the presentation, and before doing so referred to great advantage ambulance work was to those m railway work. He then handed to Dr. Lowe a mounted umbrella suitably inscribed. Mr. Fox receIved a pipe and tobacco pouch.

Our Portrait Gallery.

SUPERINTENDENT AMOS HOWARD, SUPT. OF STOR ES , PRE STON CORP S, S.J.A.B., AND Ex-INS PECTOR OF PRE STON BOROUGH POLICE, HONORARY SERVING BROTHER OF THE ORDI£R OF THE HO SP ITAL OF ST. JOHN OF JER USALEM IN ENGLAND.

IT is with more than ordinary pleasure that we present in our Gallery this month, the portrait of one of the most enthusiastic ambulance police office rs in the country. Mr. Howard first took up ambulance .work not as a part of his mere routine work, although he .IS a strong for its extension among all .ranks Il1 the SerVIce, but because he is naturally a ma n, and the principles inculcated by its teachmg appealed to hi£? in a far WIder sense than that ImplIed by official rou tIne.

'Y1r. Howard joined the Preston. PolIce Force In January 1883, he was sergean.t m June 1898, an.d romoted to the rank of mspector In August 1903,. hIS including those of inspector under the. ContagIous Diseases (Animals) Act, Inspector ExplOSIves and of Common Lodging-houses, &c. A.s IS well kn?wn the duties appertaming to thes.e appomtments requIre both tact and discretion, and It speaks well for Insf:1ector Howard's methods that in the discharge of the duties these offices, not only has he earned confidence of h.Is h · f d the esteem and regard of hiS brother officers In c Ie, an '11 f h I the force, but he has retained the good WI 0 t e genera public. . f

The subject of our sketch was one of the plOneers 0 the Ambulance Movement in Preston, and on the formation of the Preston Corps of the St. J Ambulance Brigade in January r888, he and Supt. Hamson were two

-FIRST

of the first to be enrolled, and since that date they have practically raised the whole of the funds necessary for the carrylng on of first aid work in the town. During the progress of the South African War Mr. Howard had much to do with the raising of the ambulance drafts which went from Preston to do hospital duty at the front with the Royal Army Medical Corps, and in recognition of his services in this direction, he was offered and accepted, with the consent of the Chief Constable and the sanction of the Watch Committee, the post of Sergt.-Major of the Hospital Contingent of the Rhodesian Field Force, serving with that unit from May 1900 to August 1901. On his return home he, within three months, succeeded in enrolling fifty-eight men from the local units of the S.J.A.B. to form a Bearer ComiJany of the Brigade, and until June of last year he held the rank of Sergt.-Major in the Company, and, undoubtedly, it was largely owing to his experience in matters appertaining to active service conditions which enabled him to bring it up to its present high state of efficiency.

One of the most interesting, and certainly not the least laudable, of Mr. Howard's hobbies has been the collecting of evidence regarding rescues or attempts at rescue of persons in danger of drowning, and the resuscitatJon of the. apparently drowned, and mainly upon the eVidence which he has succeeded in obtaininrT b' Colonel T:lmble, eM.G., who is the local honorary representatIve ?f.the Royal Humane Society, has secured for local recIpients four bronze medals, and eleven certi6cates for life saving, and five certificates for the restoration of the apparently drowned.

Inspector Howard was one of the promoters and vicechairman of the Sports Club, and as evidence of the esteem which is ?eld, it was decided to request him, on hiS retIrement, to retain hiS seat on the committee and this he has consented to do. For a long period Mr. Howard has been an advocate for the provision of rr.eans ot recreation for the mem bers of the Force, and for the of the competitive system for promotion, arguIng that the former would prove a counter attraction to the public-.house and keep the men away from undesirable company, whlle the latter would act as a stimulus to attain a higher educational standard and thereby tend to raise the tone and morale of the force as a whole.

Inspector Howard is in possession of three medals and the decoration of an Honorary Serving Brother of the Order 0.[ St. John-being, it is needless to say, the most pnzed. The medals are the South African War Medal, the St. John's South African Medal, and the Service Medal.

It is gratifying to learn that it is not the intention of the subject of our sketch to give up his ambulance work but that the Preston Corps will stiU have the benefit of valued services. In his well earned retirement from t.he s.tress and strain of police wor!\: he wiU carry wIth him the good wishes of all who have had the pleasure?f workin.g. with. him, and have thereby had the opportuOlty of reahsIng hIS sterling worth and thoroughness of purpose.

We .cannot this brief record of Mr. Howard's career without to the valuable services rendered to the by hiS partner. Like her husband, Mrs. Howard IS aider and equally desirous of the extension of As Lady Superintendent ?f the Pres.ton urs.mg DlVIslOn she is const::tntly engaged

10 co?nectlOn with It: work, especially in the arranging and the ?etalls of the competitions held annually

111 conjUnctIOn with the Nortb-East Lancashire Review and

AI D.- October, 1909.

Inspection. In the discharge of the important duties appertaining to this function Mrs. Howard has on more than one occasion earned high econiums from the Inspecting Officer.

In conclusion, we wish both Mr. and Mrs. Howard every happiness, and may they both be blessed with good health and the necessary carry out the extension of the work in which they take so warm an interest.

October, 1909. -FIRST

a very smart appearance. After going through foot drill, and the drill of the R.A.M.C., they were called upon to treat several cases of supposed injuries, in all of which they acquitted themsevles well. The Inspecting Officer subsequently went through the books, registers, etc., and inspected the stores, and expressed his satisfaction at the admirable way in which they had been kept.

No. 3 District.

LONGFORD.-The annual competition for the North East Warwickshire Corps Cup, presented for annual competition three years ago by tbe Rev. Dore Rudgard, who was at that time the chief superintendent, took place here on Saturday, September 18th, the judges being Asst.-Com-

No. I District (Metropolitan Corps.)

WEST LONDON (44) DrvIslON.-This division had a march out on Saturday, September 22nd, to the "Ballot Box," Horsenden Hill, and in spite of the inclement weather a good muster paraded at Ealing Broadway and marched to the destination, a distance of about four miles. On arrival at the" Ballot Box," where a good tea had been got ready, the order was" fall to," and all did justice to the good fare provided.

A splendid musical evening had also been arranged by Corp I. Corpl. Wash borne, of the 1St City of London FIeld Am bulance, gave" Thora," and "The Last Watch," both of which were well received. Pte. Fairman, of the same company, sang" True Till Death" and "All you are to me." Later in the evening the two Territonals sang as a duet, "I'll Sing Thee Songs of Araby. Mr. Rowe and Corpl Haughey kept the company well amused with their various comic songs, and many others also helped to make the time pass pleasantly. A few toasts were honoured and a vote of thanks was accorded to CorpI. Haughey and Pte. Crust, who acted as secretaries f?r th.e outing brought the evening to a close. By this time .It had turne? out a glorious moonlight night, so it was unaOlmousl y decided to march back to Ealing. This was done in excellent style.

No. 2 District.

EXETER.-The Police Division was inspected on 1St, the inspecting officer being Assistant CommiSSIOner Sprawson. Mr. R. L. Williams, Chief Constable, also Superintendent of the Division was absent through indisposition.

About 36 men were on parade under the command of the 1St Officer (Inspector Way). Hon. Surgeon Pereira a.?d Supt. Bowden, of the City Division, were also present. 1 he m.en went. through the several drills, including bandagll1g, etc., 111 a very efficient manner, and at the conwere heartily congratulated upon the very mark€:d Improvement which they had made.

In the As:istant Commissioner Sprawson mspected the Clty DlVlslOn, Supt. Bowden was in command, and the total strength on parade was as follows:Two officers, two sergeants, one bugler and twenty-three rank and file, three only being absent with leave. When drawn up to receive the Inspecting Officer they presented

Al D.- 59

Subsequently the several teams were entertained to tea by the donor of the cup, and prior to separating Assistant-Commissioner Woolston proposed a very hearty vote of thanks to the rev. gentleman [or his kind hospitality, a proposition which was heartily endorsed by the com peli tors.

In responding, the Rev. Dore Rudgard said how pleased he was to see them all, and concluded by expressing his determination to do all that was in his power to foster and encourage the am bulance movement.

WELLINGBOROUGH.-A party of eighteen members belonging to this coq.Js recently travelled to London and paid a visit to that splendid institution the London Hospital , over which they were conducted by :'1r. Morris, who kindly

missioner Woolston, Chief Surgeon J. Orton, M.D., and the Rev. Dore Rudgard (District Superintendent of SloreS). The various tests to which every member of each team had to submit himself, consisted of individual bandaging, and a brief viva vOce examination. In the stretcher test the team had to treat a patient for supposed injury, place him on stretcher, and remove to a given point. The .time allowed for this test was ten minutes, and for every mll1ute in excess a team was penalised by the loss of three points. At the conclusion the result was announced by Asst.Commissioner Woolston, and was as follows: - 1st, Nuneaton (L. & N.W. Ry.), 245 points; 2nd, Coventry Central, 232 points; 3rd, Longford 216 points; Nuneaton Town, 198 points; 5th, Coventry Co-operative, 143 points.

Whiteman. explained the general routine work of the The operating theatres, the stores and manufacturIng department, where the drugs, tabloids, plaisters; etc., were being made. Great interest was manifested by the party in the" Lupus" Ward, in which twelve patients were being treated by the Finsen Light treatment, which it will be within the recollection of our readers was first installed at this hospital at the instigation of Queen Alexandra. A nurse was in attendance on each patient. The light was directed on the patch of lupus and maintained there for one hour' the eyes of the nurse are protected from the strong of the light by opaque. glasses. The room was also visited, and hele a p:t.tlent was undergolOg a searching test for a pin she had swallowed that Mr. Morris in the meanwhile gave the party a most mter-

NUNEATON (L.N.W.R.) TEAM, WINNERS OF TIlE NORTlI-EAST WARWICKSHIRE CORP S CU P.

Supt. A. NighLingale. W. Briers. II. Whicemore.

S e rgl. T. B. W oo dcoc k. G. Barnell. S.

-FIRST

esting account of this great help to modern surgery, and the Sister who also accompanied them showed a series of interesting photographs-or should we say Radiographsthese including one of a child who had swallowed a toy bicycle trinklet, and in the picture the wheels, handlebars, and saddle were plainly discernable at the bottom of the patient's throat,

After a visit to the large operatIng theatre the party were conducted through all the wards, including those apportioned to of the Hebrew faith.. Then came a visit to the patients' kitchen; here are applIances for the preparation of 1,000 dinners a d.ay, it f<?r the order and regularity with whIch thIs vast instItutIOn IS conducted, when we mention that the meals are never three minutes late.

Tea was subsequently served in the committee room, after which a· hearty vote of thanks was accorded to Mr. Morris and the other mem bers of the hospital staff, who had so kindly assisted to make the visit of inspection so pleasant and instructive, and Mr. Morris was invited visit Wellingborough and give an address on the splendid work which the hospital is doing in the East -e nd of the Great Metropolis, and the mem bers of the party pledged themselves to do their utmost to make it an assured success, and the proceeds accruing should be handed over to the funds of the hospital.

Mr. Morris, in reply, said it was always a pleasure for him to show those really interested over the hospital. He knew they were good workers and interested in hospital work, and he had been more than repaid by the attention and interest they had shown. He would come down to Wellingborough with pleasure, and would do his best to make the lecture interesting; in concluding, he wished all a safe journey home.

It should be mentioned that prior to going over the London Hospital, the party visited St. John's Gate, and were shown over the old building by one of the staff, who kindly showed all there was of interest in the various rooms , including the old Pharmacy Jars from Malta, the ancient arms and armour and the Insignia and Roll of the Order.

No. 4 District.

BRIERFIELD.-The annual competItIOn for the "Tuns till Memorial" Challenge Shield and the "Thomas Veevers" Challenge Cup took place on September 18th, and was held in the Wesleyan School, in the presence of a large number of spectators, who watched the contest with keen interest.

The judges were District Supt. Treasurer F. de Beho Pim, Hon. Surgeons Hoyl e , Pirie, Wilson and Supt. W. Webster, and the tests set the competitors were all of a practical character, as will be seen from the attached list :-

QUE STIONS

I. Detail the method of rendering first aid to a boy whose foot. has scalded through the boot and stocking

2. GIve the sIgns, symptoms and treatment of internal h ce morrhage.

3· How may fracture of the knee-cap be caused? Give sIgns, symptoms and treatment.

4· Give the treatment for shock, fainting (sy ncope ) and collapse.

.

5: Wh<l:t .do you understand by the term asphyxia? How IS thIS condItIon brought about? Give the treatment to be adopted in the case of a person having swallowed very hot water.

AID.-

October, 1909.

I NDlVIDUAL BANDAGING.

1. Treat the following ca')e : -Fracture of the left clavicle. Fracture of both clavicles.

2. We presume that your patient is laid upon a live electric wire. He is unconscious. Treat the case.

3· We presume that your patient has fractured the humerus, two inches from its lower end.

4· We presume your patient to have fallen down a Right of steps; there is marked swelEng around knee-joint, and it is very painful. You are not certain as to whether be has sustained a fractured patella or a severe sprain. Treat the case.

5· We presume that your patient has a deep incised wound on part indicated (back of scalp ) There has been very severe h cc morrhage, and he is unconscious and the breatbing is not discernable.

STRETCHER TEST.

Your patient is found lying on the roadside with a right crushed foot, and a bullet wound through the left elbow-joint. Treat the case and convey the patient to his own home.

In the individual competition for the nursing sisters the competitors were first put through a series of questions relating to sick nursing, such as the method of giving wet pack, the points noticeable in cough, and the effects of dry heat on the body. They were afterwards put through the practical tests by Dr. Pim.

The competitions were all over by about 6 o'clock and the competitors were drawn up in front of the platform to hear the results, and in the case of the winning teams to receive the prizes.

The result was as follows :-1, Ackton Hall, 26 5 2, Horwich, 249 3, Stoke-on-Trent, 245; 4, Newcastleunder-Lyme, 236 ; 5, Crompton, 235; 6, Barrow-inFurness, 234 ; 7, Colne, 23 [; 8, Crossfield's (Warrington), 229; 9, Barrowford, 226; 10, Lancaster, 218; 10, Ashton-under-Lyne, 218; 1 I, Burnley, 205; 12, Chorley, 180; 13, Todmorden, 178; 14, Whitefield, 161; IS, Norden, ISS·

Ackton Hall Colliery took the "Tunstill" Shield and the gold medals; Horwich took silver medals with enamelled centres; and Stoke recC'ived silver medals with gold centres. Private W. Brooks, of Ackton Hall Colliery, secured the prize for individual work, which was a handsome drawingroom clock.

In the nursing competition Lady Supt. Miss Whittaker (Bury) secured the "Veevers" Cup and silvermounted umbrella; and the second prize, a pair of silverphoto frames, went to Nursing Sister Miss Broadhead (Huddersfield), and the third, a pair uf silver salt cellars, was awarded to Nursing Sister Miss Vaughan (Hull).

Colonel Trimble announced the result in a brief speech, in which he expressed gratification at the fact that the competitors now came from the other districts instead of being confined to the local divisions. As Deputy-Commissioner of the district he thanked Mr. Buckley for his generosity in giving the prize for individual work, and also for the efforts which he was making to assist in the extension of brigade work generally. Addressing the men of NO·4 District more particularly, he impressed upon them the neces<;ity of maintaining their efficiency. They must attend the drills and support the officers if they desired to maintain their present high state of efficiency.

The prizes were then presented by Mr. Buckley, who, in the course of an encouraging address, the winners upon their success. Personally, he thought they deserved their success. He had no doubt they had won it as a result of hard work and practice, and were justifiably proud of it. He would like to say just one word to those who had not won prizes. Let them regard their ambulance

October, 1909. -FIRST work as a pleasure and feel that by its aid they might perhaps be of service to their friends and neigh b.ours in case of accident. It was, of course, only by practIce that they could reach the top, and these competitions in that way served a good purpose, they inspired men and women to attain to higher ideals.

V otes of thanks were afterwards accorded to the judges and Mr. Buckley for presiding and presenting prizes, after which a social was held at the Central BuIldings and was well attended.

ELLES1fERE. -The first official inspection of this corps, which comprises Walkden, Boothstoure Railway, Worsley and Swinton D; visions, took at ?n Septem ber 22nd, the inspecting officer being DIstrict ChIef Supt. A. L. Garnett, of the N orth -Western staff. There were nearly 100 officers and men on parade, and they presented a smart appearance in their uniform. The officers present were Supt. Secretary J. and First Officers J. Robinson, J. Brundrett, J. Makinson, L. Gorton and J. Clough.

Having first inspe c ted the books and RegIsters of the several divisions District Chief Supt. Garnett, who was received with a sal uk, then made an inspection of the equipment and uniform Subsequently the m en were put through, company, stretcher, hand seat drills, and bandaging.

.,

At the conclusion of the inspectlCJn, the inspecting officer a.ddressing the men, said he would give them a good as he. was satisfied with the work he had witnessed. He deSIred to congratulate them upon the fact that they had shown so much proficiency, and he hoped they would not be satisfied to stop where they were. There were improvements to be made, and he hoped that when the next inspection was held thEY would be second to no other corps in the NO.4 District.

Notwithstanding that this corps has not been In eXistence twelve months, they took charge of the arrangements in connection with the Royal at Worsley on July 6th, 1909, all the me.n attendl.ng ?elng fully equipped and in uniform, from whIch fact It wdl seen that a large amount of work must have been done In a short time.

PRESTON. - With every token of respect the remains of Hon. Surgeon J. E. Holden were conveyed to their last resting place in Preston Cemetery on September 13th The cortege left the residence 0f the deceased gentleman shortly before o'clock, and proceeded to the Cannon-street Congregational Church, where assembled the representatives of several of publIc bodIes .and a large number of the members of the medical professlOn.

The service which was very impressive throughout, was conducted by the Rev. B. Nightingale, M.A., who delivered an appreciate address, in .which reference was made to the loss which they had sustained. by th.e of Dr. Holden, and a fitting tribute was paId to hIS kIndly generous nature.

Supt. Harrison and Inspector ?oward were representing the Preston Borough PolIce DlVlslOn, Mr. W. G. Makinson, and Mr. E. F. MIllmgton represented the Preston Centre of the S.lA.A., and there were several members of the headquarters division of the Preston of the S.J.A,B. present, and members of the Preston RallAmblJlance Corps acted as bearers. There was a large number of fior9.l wreaths and other

AID.- 61

trihutes, all of which bore loving testimony to the regard and esteem in which the deceased gentleman was held. .--.

Stove' 5 Patent Hose Coupling.

WE recently had the pleasure of witnessing a demonstration of a coupling, an improvement on Messrs. Nunan and Stove's patent couplings, used so extensively by the leadi?g steamship companies throughout the world, and a deSCrIption of this coupling should prove of int erest to our fire brigade readers.

The old coupling has two sleeves, one revolving over the other, which allows all twists to leave the hose when the water is turned on. It was, howev e r, found that should the sleeve gt:!t bent, the outer sleeve would not revolve, and as a consequence a leakage result ed. In addition to this the c0upling was unsuited t? suction-the sleeve drawing air. A separate couplmg, th e refore, haVIng ?nly one sleeve, \'las made for this purpose. It revolves I.n a similar manner to the old patent and IS perfectly tIght under all pressure, and can be llsed both f?r suction and delivery. If required the hose can be Tlvetted to .the sleeve which was impossible with the two -sleeve couplmg. It can' be taken to pieces immediately and any damaged part replaced j and, as a of its reliability, we may mention thil.t it has been subjected to the most severe tests, all of which have resulted satisfactorily. The manufacturer's are Nunan's Hose Couplings, Ltd., TO, Norfolkstreet, Strand, W.C -----. -

L.B. & S.CR.-The annual concert and distribution of certificates in connection with the Brighton District of this railway centr e was held at St. Saviou.r's .Hall, on September 29 th Mr. R. L. Whitwortn, DistrIct Goods Su.pt., presided, and was supported by many of the prlOclpal local officials.

We regret to record the death of :Mr. W. G. Edes, of the Spalding Railway Division of the S.J.A.B. whose death took place suddenly on October 9 th The deceased gentleman was a most enthusiastic ambulance held the position of Inspector of Sto.res the DlVlSI?n. His body was laid to rest on 12th mst: In the Cemetary. A service was held In the ParIsh whIch was largely attended by the members of the DIVISIon, and other institutions with which the deceased was connected.

When corresponding with Advertisers please mention "First Aid."

We are in no way responsible jor the opinions expressed, or the statements made, by Correspondents.-EDITORS.

MINING AMBULA CE WORK IN CORNWALL.

DEAR SIR,.-In issue of August a paragraph appears WhiCh, at first sight, might be misleacling if not carefully read. t states that" Ambulance work amongst the mining classes In Cornwall does not make that progress that it does in the North of England or in Wales." This is perfectly true, but your readers may be led to understand that ambulance work in Corn:vall is not making. much progress, and I should like to mentIOn here that first aid classes have been held in Redruth every year for nearly twenty years-in Cam borne, St. Ives, Truro, Falmouth, and many other small towns and villages in the mining district-that hundreds of men and women have obtained certificates and medallions.

. There are the S.J.A.B. in the mining distnct, and more diVISions are 111 .of formation-a large amount of transport and first aid bemg done in the neighbourhood of thf'. ml?es - and the majority of the the diVISion are not mmers, yet there is fair sprinkImg of mmmg men among them. The reason that the miners themselves have not been very active in ambulance work until recently is due to the fact that .they have not been encouraged to take the matter up by the mme manaaers this will however I hope soon. b.e rectified, and is a trend am'Jngst mmmg men generally 111 favour of more energeti c ambulance work in the future.

The fact that .only three teams competed at a recent test for a c!lallenge. shield does not indicate that ambulance work is n?t bemg carned on-competitions are not the sole end and aim of the S.J.A.A S.J.A B.-personally, I am not in favour so many competitions bemg held under the existing conditIOns, as more often than not the same team is trotted round from to place .to the exclusion of less fortlmate-but probably qUite as effiCient-teams, who become discouraged and cease to take the same interest in the work.

On the 'Vest possesses an up-to-date and complete eqLlIpment belongmg to the divisions of the brigade, and a .very effiCient and earnest set of men. I f the mine authorities will supply adequate app liances and proper, well ventilated well warmed emergency rooms, there will be no difficulty IJ1 findmg a .personel to act promptly in the mines.

Apologlsmg for so much of your s pace-if you sh.ould feel disposed to 1I1sert this letter, - I am dear Sir yours faithfully , ,

CASPA.R R L AURI,E, Major RA.M.C.(T). ASSistant-Commissioner No.2 District. Redruth, Sept. 2 1st, 909

[We are very pleased to insert Major Laurie's letter. We know how u.nselfishly .he has laboured for the cause for many years, a nd If by callmg attention to the appareet lukewarmnes s we shall have succeeded m strengthen in g his hands we hope our comments may do some good.-ED.

FIRST AID.J'

THE RED CROSS SCHEME.

SIR,-Your read and much esteemed monthly J AID, IS so well known for its absolute fairness m ItS lemalks,.and always op.en to hear all sides, that I venture to m.ake In some ways IS of the nature of a reply to the lead mg. article on pa g e 34 of the September number

Bemg an Honorary Surgeon of the Brigade and a founder

of a Division, as well as a Commanding Officer of a Field Ambulance, I feel that I cannot well be looked upon as biased either in one direction or another in the matter you there deal with.

In first place you draw attention to the parallel circumstances In Red Cross matters as between this country and Japan, and point out the absence of a similar body to the St. John Ambulance Brigade, and that if there had been such an organisation in that country that they would have made use of it by incorporating it with the new order.

May I point out, Sir, that I believe the Director-General Sir Alfred Keogh, has been in constant communication with headquarters of the Order of St. J olm, and also with the Red Cross Society (many of the high officers of which are also members of the Chapter of the former Order ) and that this Red Cross scheme is the outcome of these consultations and that it meets with the entire approval, as your notes on page 45 show, of the Central Executive Committee of the St. John Ambulance Association.

There is nothing in the scheme that excludes any of the members of the Brigade joining the Voluntary Aid Detachments-except those who are earmarked as a reserve of the regular RA.M.C., viz., the Home Hospital Reserve (and probably the Bearer Co mpanies ), who, therefore, have already a place m .wal> and of course could not be looked on as part of the TerrItorIal Force at the same time - which this new side of the Red .Cross is intended to be part of.

My IS t.hat is jus.t the beginning of a most useful organisatIOn which will ampbfy the brilliant work that has been done for years in a voluntary ancl. unostentatious way by the members of the S.J.A.B. all over the country, and when has more definite shape it may mean that the BrIgade will get, m some measure, what it has never had before in the form of official recognition and financial help fron; Government SOurces.

.v 0u , Sir, a!ld everyone recognise the great and splendid serV1ces that Sir AI.fred Keogh has rendered to the voluntary med ica l thiS country, and I have great hopes that this scheme of hiS will prove to be of the greatest assistance both to the A;;sociation and Brigade.

I f it does nothing else than organise some of the many have the classes of the S.J.A.A. It have !more than Justified ItS formation.-I am, Sir, your obedient servant,

A R HENCHLEY, M.D., Major Commandmg 2nd Home Counties Field Ambulance, RA.M.C. (T. ), and Hon. Surg. and Acting Supt. Canterbury Div ision, S.J.A.B. September 28th, I90 9.

[We gladly Major Henchley's kind criticism. We however, pomt out that he scarcely answers our contentIOn that members of the Brigade. should not be placed on same footmg as the somewhat raw leVies proposed to be raised by the new scheme.-ED. FIRST AID.]

DEAR SlR,-I. am glad to see that one of your correspondents called attent10n to the remarks of Sir Frederic Treves when discussing with the pushful pressman - oh the booming the which this new movement has got-the progress It was mak!ng. Personally 1, in common with many others of my breth:en, am just a bit sick of this extensive advertlsmg of the emment surgeon and his last creation. I first up ambulance work in 1879, and I know of many q.P s alive to-day, who commenced about the same period, smce then we have year year given one, or it may be two or three. of lectures m each year. The importance of the subject d1d not apparently strike Sir Frederic Treves in days. I presume he was too busy acquiring knowledge himself and could not, therefore, devote any of his le is ure to .of such valuable knowledge, as he now conSiders th1s first a1d work to aI?ongst the general public of that day. Perh.aps he was Wise, m that he has waited until 11e afford give time to its propagation, without any serious detriment to hiS own personal advancement hence he reaps the benefit of his self-abnegation -- Yours truly;

M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P., D.P.H.

October 1909 -FIRST ARGUMENTUM AD JUDICIUM.

DEAR SIR - I am an old ambulance pupil, having taken my certificates 'under the old City and Port of London Centre many a year agone. I bave, however, never follo,:",ed ityp by joining the .Brigade, firstly, because I have little time to devote to leisure, and, secondly, I do not reqUIre the aId of the looking-glass to tell me that I am growing older Still, although not an active member of the splendid movement organised by the S.J.A A. in the early eighties, I believe; I have always taken rather more than a passive interest in its and. I have watched with admiration its members engaged m thea beneficient work, on the occasions when the rest of the community is given ove: to general rejoicing.

This bemg so, I can sympathise With those of your readers who may be members of the Briga.de, and who view feeling of the formation of anothe: to practically tram carry out the. same duties they as a Brigade have, m the past, given such unmistakable evidence of being equally capable of carrying out. But would ask the members of the Brigade, are they not to a certain extent or rather their leaders, responsible for being passed over. I candot conceive that their claims to special recognition have ever been brougbt before the authorities, or if they have they have not been pressed, otherwise I am sme th.ey would not have been so totally ignored as they have been In the present scheme.

Phenomenal as the growtb of the Brigade has been, It IS not to be compared to the growth of the Boy Scouts, and why? Because they have got a real man at the head ?f the latter organisation, and a man who IS not s? s.aturated. With the castiron bonds, or rather red tape offiCialism, of either Army .o r Navy as have been those appointed to rule over the destmles of the Brigade.

Therein lies the difference, and you may depend upon It that when the Red Cross Society come to appoint Directors, they will be real live. men, men of flesh .and blood, not such as I have heard deSCrIbed as the embodiment of a past, and admittedly fossilised age. The Director of the Brigade should b.e a man not beyond middle age, and one wh? has to a certaIn extent served. an apprenticeship in w1th the wor.k, not ?ne _W?O hav111 g given the best of hiS. life, an? pOSSibly hiS 1:=J1ams to the service of hiS country, IS on retirement placed In a pOSitIOn, which should have required years of hard. work to. have attained. Fancy the \tVar .or Adm1ralty, takm.g an elderly civil surgeon and him. Director-General of e1ther the Army or the Navy Medical Service.

You lau a h at the idea of course ynu do, and yet 1t 1S no more ridicul;us than is the system of appointing a retired elderly officer, of either service, to so responsi.ble a position as that of Director of the St. John Ambulance Bngade.

Well I am afraid have already trespassed at too great an extent your space, so I will conclude, with wish most fervently expressed, that e,:,en now sO.me steps wlll be taken to adequately reward the Bngade for ItS splendid recOid of the past.- Yours faithfully, "NE SUTOR ULTRA CREPIDAl\I. "

HONOUR TO WHOM HONOUR IS DUE.

DEAR MR. EDITOR,-I was exceedingly pleased to see the reply to a correspondent which appeared on [page 48 the September number of your JoLlrnal. As one of the ongmal members of the Margate Corps of the S.J.A.B., altho\1.gh not resident there now, I feel indignant. at the attempts which are repeatedly made to rob Mr. of the honour, .an honour it undoubtedly is, of having fou?ded tl?e.first CIVIlian ambulance corps in this. country The was t o form a practise corps With the object of asslstmg the meI?bers to retain a knowledge of their work, but on the suggestIOn of Mr. Braiser it was ultimately decided to start an ambulance co rps and to run it on similiar lines to that of a volunteer fire scheme was warmly approved by the local medical men, especially by the late Dr. T. Smith Rowe, who was elected President.

Soon after the formation of the corps, it was presented (Continued on page 64).

AI D.THE MODERN PHYSICIAN.

By Dr. ANDREW WILSON.

A GREAT WORK FOR AMBULANCE MEN.

THE importanc e in the National life of the movement known as "First Aid and Ambulance Study" is now universally established, and its usefuln ess has again and again been strikingly demonstrated.

A work that justifies its claim be an epitome o f all that specialised medical and surgical knowledg e necessary for First Aiders, as well as an autho rit ative manual of reference on all information r e la ting to Health and Disease, is therefore a work to be welcomed by all our readers who wish to study their subject more deeply than is possible from superficial text books.

In "The Modern Physician," by Dr. Andrew Wilson, fullest space is devoted to (( First Aid" and Am bulance Work. In r es pect of comp leteness , accuracy of d e scription, and wealth of illustration, "The Modern Physician" stands without a rival amongst the works published on this important subj ec t in th e United Kingdom. It is scientifically accurate and reliabl e with out being dull ; the name of its editor, so long and popularly known as an expositor of Health laws and a t eacher of Hygi ene, is a guarantee of this. This work is absolutely complete as regards Health and Disease, and is thoroughly up-to-date.

As a knowledge of the body in Health is necessary to the due understandin g o f the body when its functions are deranged by disease, a description cf every part of the frame will be found here. The skeleton, muscles, digestive system, heart and lungs, brain and nervous organs of sense, skin, kidn eys and the body's microscopIc structure are duly described. In this connection the are of Darticular value the "mannikins" or dummies more in these' the organs are made to overlap each other exactly as they do in the human body.

The section d evo t e d to Hygiene includes the full exposition of the Laws of Health, and attention is devoted to Physic a l Culture. Such tOpiCS as beverages, air, exercise, clothing, sleep, b.aths, holidays, temperament, &c., are tr eated in this sectIOn.

The last volume is especially devoted to the Health of vVomen, and Dr. Wilson has h ere been assisted by a nnmber of eminent wom en physicians. Midwifery and treatment and Diseases of Infants a,e here fully dealt With. Sections are devoted to Home Nursing and Invalid Cookery. The se ctiun on "The Family Medicine Chest" gives the uses, properti.es and of drugs, whether used as medicine, gargles, oll1tments, pIlls, &c.

A FREE BOOKLET.

TO THE C.\.XTON PUBLISHING CO;\ P_\.XY, Clun H ouse, Surrey Street, London, " ·.C.

Please sent! me, FRFE 'w CIIARGE and without any on my part

(1) Illustrated nook ct on "TilE l\IoDERK PHYSICIA:-;.

(2) Particulars of your olrer to deliver th e complete work for n. first pn.) ment of TS 6d., th e balance to be paid or by a few small monthly payments.

N E 'ii; D.) ADORESS

-FIRST

with a St. John litter-one of the old German pattern-this, however, was found to be so heavy,and so c umbersome to work with in houses with narrow stair-ways th a t we worked out an under carr age for the" Furley " stretcher. This was a small light vehicle-I believe it is still in use fitted with bicycle wheels, and with collapsable sides, in order to faciliate its stora g e.

Havin g acquired un iform, it was decided that the t ime had arrived for the corps to undergo the ordeal of inspe c tion at the hands of an expert, and with this end in ,"iew Mr. (now Sir John ) Furley was approa c hed, and he at once willingly complied with our request and arranged to meet us at the SouthEastern Railway Station. I am sorry I cannot give the date, ?ut doubtless the old m nute book, if in existence, would show It. We paraded in the s tation ya rd in uniform, with our new litter, a nd went throu g h s everal exerc ises and tested the litter over the railway lines.

Fllrley s:ru ck with the ut iIJty o f the conveyance, but did not con s ider It woul d be stron g enou g h for ordinary use by the average ambulan ce man. A copy of our rules was tl? him, an d e XI?ressed his warm a pproval of the idea, and mtlmated h iS mtentlon of starting similar corps at Ashford and Seven oa ks

I recently s a w in a volumn of Remines cences that the eminent author claimed th a he first submitted to the Association rules for the g overnment of ambul a n ce corp s which were adopted Well , Mr. Ed tor, with all due deferen ce to the eminent remines cent auth o r I a m compelled to desi o nate his statement as a "termin o log ical inexa c titude. " I you my copy of the rules wh .ch, if you can compare them with an early copy of the rules Is s ue d by the Asso cia tion you will I think, find the y are well -ni g h the same. , I fear I have r es passed at too g re a t a len g th, but as one of the early plOnee.rs of the corps movement, although not now With It I felt I sho.ul? like to write and thank you for a n Wh iC h, If It were a llowed to g o uncontradi c ted, m Ig ht m the lon g run tend to di sc redit the c laim of h a e been the birth-pl ac e of the c ivilian a mbulance corps 111 thi s an d ha ve robbed m y oId friend a nd officer, Churc h BraS Ier, of the honour of ha vin g founded it.- Yours truly,

THE PRESENT CAP.

AID.St. John Ambulance Association Territorial Branch.

I:, connection with the above, a course of lectures on first aId was commenced at the Polytechnic on · October 5th . The class is. for woman who desire to qualify for the Aid Detachments of the British Red Cross

The class is being lectured to by Dr. James Cantlie, and numbers over one hundred mem ber.:;.

. A large class for women is also being held at the Kensl?gton College, Bayswater, by kind permission of the dIrector, James Mursford, Esq., Dr. J. M. Carvell is the lecturer.

vVe are asked to announce that Viscountess Esher h,?pes t1)at those desiring to join her classes in November wlll apply at once by letter to 2, Tilney-street, Mayfair, W., as the classes are filling rapidly.

The enthusiastic local honorary secretary of the at Radstock. (Mr. S. Lloyd Harvey) has entered on a campaIgn to push on the new movement· both Ir: the press and by circular he is advocating formatlOn of classe.s for men and wom en, and in addition he asks .all those I.n the immediate neighbourhood who sUItable premIses for temporary hospitals, or possessmotor-cars or lorry-,:agons, horses, ambulance vans, lItters, &c., whIch. t.hey be willing to place at t.he dIsposal of the authontIes, to kIndly favour him with theIr name and address and particulars of their offer.

Aids to Memory for U First Aid" Students.

By l. M. FRANK CHRISTIAN, M.B., C.M. EDIN. Honorary Assoc iate 0/ tlu Order

0/ St .Ioitn

F C. W.

D EAR . SIR, - I ha ve the honour, at considerable personal sacnfi ce, both finan c ially and by loss of time, and a lar g e .amount of worr y? to be a member of the S.J.A.B. for the last eight ye a rs. Durm g the whole of that time I have only worn my forage ca p on s xteen occ a sions. Your readers should know that in witb re g ul a tions the forage cap be wo:n tWi ce 111 eac h year, vi z., Churc h Parade and annual In s pe c tIon. On all other occasions, drills, route marches, and d uty parades, the field service cap is the rule. Why then for two parades yearly should a new cap be substituted ?

1\lthough.I the forage c.ap I am content to wear it, knowmg that Immediately the special parades are over out will come the free field ca p. my mmd It IS parti c ularly hard on small divisions especIally where.they buy their own uniform, that any should be made 111 the head dress.

R e Drill.

I am .a that in many quarters too much foot drill is WIth disfa vour, bu t it has to be done at inspection and durll1 g camp. I should obli g ed if some of your readers would favour me with '!- t? the following :_

the 190 8 Infantry Trammg, SectIOn 64, para. 2, we

Sections-Right form. Quick mar ch. Forward by the rz;l{/zt.

Se c tion 66 the same.

Se c tion 69 change dire c tion right. Right form. Forward by the eft.

S ec tion 1 r4 and Se c tions 64 and 66. -Yours truly, " PU ZZ LED."

When corresponding with Advertisers please mention "First Aid."

1-10" Lift M embe r oJ, and Examiner/or, tlte St .101m A mb u l a nce Association

"A concise ant! litt le wor k T o th e seasoned firs a ide r p rove a boo n • As an a d ror hose wh o en er ror Ambu ance C o mp e titi o ns It pro ve IIl va luab e. have seen and r ead many tex boo ks o n h s s ubj ect, b';. tl t has n ot be en o ur p Tl vIl ege to r ev iew one of whi c h we so th oro ug hl y app ro l ed -F rst Ald

Second Edition. Revised Throughout. Additional Photograpbs.

" This va lu able li tl e trea tise • has n ow bee n th orough ly rev sed a nd bro ugh u p o d a te "-First A id ". Th.e im pr ove men !s. very mar k ed, bo th in ex and illu stra ti o n th e s u bs tItutI o n .a nd th e ad dIl lOns made h ave tencieci o cons derably increase h e va lu e or th e book III th e hands or the fi r s t aide r. "-Red C' -oss a nd A ,,,buiallcc lI r[7US.

s p ossib le, correspond ent s in all parts of the country are asked to give i t all the help they can.

Superintendents of Corps and Officers of Divisions of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, Officers of the Royal Army Medical (Territorials), the Volunteer Ambulance School of Ins t ruction, and Chief Officers of Fire Brigades will, it is hoped, do their best to make it known amongst the members of their respective organisations, and will also send for publication their official news and no tices. Suggestions are invited for Prize Competitions and other matters which will advance the interest of the Journal.

We particularly desire to ask our corresponden ts to be brief and to the point in any communications they may send us fo r publication. Corresponden ts sending in photos are urgen t ly requested to s a te on the back of the same the name of the individual or the Corps or Brigade and give also the name and address of the sender.

We beg to advise our readers that we do not pay for pho ograph s or copy sent, unless previously agreed upon in writing.

" First Aid" is published on the 20th of the month.

EDITORIAL.

OUR leader of last month has brought The us further correspondence relative to Voluntary Aid the effect which the new movement is Detachments is likely to have upon the future fortunes and the of the older organisation. The wri ters St. John for the most part request their Ambulance Brigade. communications shall be regarded as private and not for publication, and we have naturally acceded to that request.

We would, however, take this opportunity of expressing our sincere thanks to the many nursing officers who have written thanking us for our action in supporting the claims of the Nursing Sisters of St. John to some special recognition, in connection with the creation of a woman's branch of voluntary helpers for the Territorial Forces. We appreciate very much the kind way in which the writers have all expressed their thanks for our championship of their claims, and we can assure them that we shall always do what we can to prove how fully we appreciate the value of the services they have at all times rendered to the community.

We think it is now patent to all that the Order of St. John has no stronger advocate regarding the claims of its

ambulance department to the gratitud e of the English nation than ourselves. At times we may hav e differed with its Executive on the policy it was th en pursuing, but in more than one instance the sequel has shown that our contention was the correct one, and our criticism has resulted in a change of poli c y which has been to the advantage of the ambulance department.

At the present time it might be argued that the methods which the Order of St. John, in conjunction with the British Red Cross Society, has chosen to adopt are, after all, no concern of ours, and, strictly speaking, we admit that it may be so ; but when we have been appealed to in the past to uphold or advocate the claims of any section of the brigade, we have never hesitated to do so, that is, provided we were convinced that the subject at issue was one which required both our advocacy and support. Even those who have not seen eye to eye with us on the3e occasions, will, we think, at l east do us the justice to admit that in any line we have taken we have at all times been studiously fair and impartial, and never lacking in courtesy towards those who mighl differ with us, We believe that this journal has a great influence for good in connection with the humanitarian work it advocates, and we have always endeavoured to act up to that high ideal. In claiming that our standard is a high one, we do so without fear of contradiction, for we challenge anyone to put their finger on a single line in our columns which could be considered as contrary to the ethics and courtesies of fair debate.

In regard to the Voluntary Aid Detachments which are now in course of formation, provided that the organisers confine their labours to preparing their several units for service in time of national emergency, and do not enter into active opposition with the older organisation in the matter of civil ambulance work, we see no reason why the two should not work harmoniously together, especially if the Deputy Commissioners of the Brigade are prevailed upon to take a leading part in defining the character and scope of the work to which the new units shall confine their services. In concluding our remarks we wish it to be distinctly understood that our feelings towards the British Red Cross Society are by no means antagonistic, we have taken up the cause of the St. John Ambulance

Brigade, and more especially its Nursing Branch, in a spirit of loyalty to a band of devoted women who have for years past devoted themselves to the work, and have attained a degree of proficiency which entitles them to aspire to some recognition such as we have suggested'

We trust that the British Red Cross Society, now that on the initative of our beloved Queen, it has realised its responsibilities in time of peace as well as in war, by preparing for the latter dread eventuality, will make such progress not only by training the new units, but also by rendering assistance to those 9.f the older organisation, that at no distant date England may claim to possess the finest Red Cross Ambulance Service in the world. This can only be accom plished by promoting a spirit of loyal co-operation between the several societies interested in the movement. We trust that something will be done in this direction, it should not be difficult to bring about provided the executive of both organisations can be prevailed upon to see how beneficial some such working agreement would be to both. The St. John Ambulance Brigade, as the senior branch, with the Voluntary Aid Detachments an the junior the British Red Cross Society would then have a persone! which in case of national emergency would, we believe, compare favourably with any similar orga,nisation In the world.

The Retirement of Supt. Piers. AN ApPRECIATION.

.retirement of Mr. Piers from. the important post of Dlstnct Supt. of Stores of No. I District will be regretted not only by every member of the Staff. but ber of the Briga?e has had the of him, or servm.g him on Brigade duty, and thiS .of wlll be mtensified by the knowledge, that hiS reslgnatlOn has been brought about owing to the fact, that the present state of his health will not allow of his continuing to discharge the duties in the way in which he feels that they should be.

That severance from the work he so dearly loves, and to which he has so unselfishly devoted most of his leisure time for many years past, will cause him genuine sorrow and regret, we can quite believe; from the day when he donned the Cyclist'S uniform, in which Division he first enrol1p.d, "Long Tom," to give him the name by which he was known to all of those who had learned to love him for his study independence of character, and his loyal attachment to those whose friendship he sought and made t.he motto of the Order his own, and hiS long penod of service, no matter how great the or pressure of the work, might be, no one ever saw him out of temper, and he had at all tim.es a cheery word, 0: a soft one,. smo?th a;"ay any lIttle difficulty, or of whIch mIght arise in connection with the dIscharge of hiS duties which, as those acquainted with the of his £pecial know, were by no means hght ones; mdeed, It lS largely due to his tact and

AI D.- N ovem ber, 19°9.

method, that the issuing of stores on the occasions of public duty always worked so smoothly.

In the early days of the brigade camps, Mr. Piers did yeoman service, devoting his annual leave to assist in pitching t)le canvas, and during the meeting taking an important part in connection with the commissariat department, a department upon which so much of the success of a camp depends.

In his retirement he will carry with him the best of good wishes for the complete restoration to health, and his old comrades will cherish the hope that they may see him for many years yet, taking an honoured place amongst them on any occasion, when they may meet together to renew old friendships, and to discuss once more the "good old times."

Although no longer on the active list, his many friends will always keep his memory green, for he has earned both their gratitude, as well as their affection, by the way in which he has at all times striven to assist them in the work, never hesitating to sacrifice his own time or pleasure, if by so doing he could add to the pleasure or comfort of his comrades, indeed, the Order of St. John never had a confrere who worked more unselfishly to uphold and maintain the principles inculcated by its Badge and Motto.

The British Red Cross Society.

THR following letter from the pen of that veteran am bulancier, Sir John Furley, which appeared in the Standard, is, we think, worthy of the attention of all of those of our readers who are interested in this all-important subject. Sir John mentions that he is "no longer on the active list" of the British Red Cross Society. To our mind it is a matter for extreme regret that Sir John is no longer an active worker, had he have been we do not think that the St. John Ambulance Brigade, which was mainly his own creation, would have been ignored in the manner which it has been.

HOSPITAL TRANSPORT.

SIR,-Although no longer on the active list of the British Red Cross Society, I am anxious to make as public as possible the result of a long experience which concerns not only this society, but also the St. John Ambulance Association, and every district in the country where efforts are being made to improve the means of carriage for sick and wounded in civil life. For many years I have advocated the desirability of providing stretchers (which are the simplest and most important vehicles for the transport of sick and wounded ) of similar dimensions to those in use in the army, even if not exactly alike in other respects; and it is equally desirable that all horse and motor ambulance carriages and wheeled litters used in ci vil life should be so constructed that they will carry the army pattern stretchers when necessary. I n a word, all such transport material should be interchangeable, except in the case of appliances required for special purposes.

The general adoption of this simple arrangement would make it very much easier to develop the "Scheme for the organisation of voluntary aid in England and Wales," which has lately been issued by the War Office. Such uniformity is really the initial step, as the vehicles to which I have referred are being daily multiplied throughout the country. I may add that in all the later carriages I designed for the St. John Ambulance Association the possibility of double employment, civil and military, was kept in view.-I am, Sir, your obedient servant, JOHN FUR LEY. South Kensington.

When corresponding with Adver tisers please menticm "First Aid."

November, 1909. -FIRST

Our Portrait Gallery.

CAPTAIN E. BURDETT POOLEY, L.R.C.P.E., L.R.C.S.,I. 4th BATT. KING'S OWN ROYAL LANCASTER REGIMENT. HONORARY ASSOCIATE OF THE ORDER OF THE HOSPITAL OF ST. JOHN OF JERUSALEM.

DISTRICT CHIEF SURGEON, No. 4 DISTRICT, ST. JOHN AMBULANCE BRIGADE.

THERE are few more enthusiastic supporters of the ambulance cause than the gentleman whose portrait appears in this month's Gallery.

Capt. Burdett Pooley qualified as a surgeon in July, 1886, and then went to reside in Rochdale, where' he acted as assistant to his brother, who was in practice in that

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Up to. th is period the su bj ect of our sketch had been mtere.sted m the of the Association only, but on the occaSlOn of the holdmg of the first Ambulance Rf:view in connection with the North East Lancashire Ambulance units, at Accrington, he was invited to officiate as judge in the am bulance competitions. He consented to do so and was so impressed with the value of the Brigade movement that he decided to endeavour to form units in his own neighbourhood. As a he. succeeded in raising ambulance and nursing dlVlslOns m both Askam and Dalton, joining the former as Honorary Surgeon. On Feb. 1St, 1897, he was offered, and accepted, the appointment of District Superintendent of Stores, NO.4 District, S.J.A.B., and on the death of the late Dr. Thompson, of Oldham, he was promoted to the rank of District Chief Surgeon. The Chapter General of the Order of St. John also marked its appreciation of the valuable services rendered to the Ambulance Department of the Order by Capt. Pooley, by selecting him as an Honorary Associate, a distinction to which his past services had eminently entitled him.

Captain Pooley's voluntary military service has been somewhat unique and varied. In the years 1879 and 1880 he served in the old 24th Royal Lancashire Rifle Volunteers as a bugler. Joining the 1St V. B. King's Own Royal Lancaster Regiment, in 1895, two years later he was promoted to the rank of captain, and now he holds the position of senior Captain in the same corps, which, under the Territorial Scheme, is now known as the 4th Batt. King's Own R. L. R. He is in possession of the certificate for tactics, and has qualified for promotion to the rank of major. Keenly interested in all matters appertaining to the Services, Capt. Pooley has for some years past been a member of the Royal United Service Institution.

The Doctor is an ardent Freemason, and he not only holds the rank of Past Master of his Lodge, but he has also attained Provincial Rank in both the .Royal Arch and Mark degrees. The Friendly Societies also claim his warmest sympathies, and not only has he passed through the Chair in connection with the Oddfellows, but he has attained the rank of District Chief Ranger in the Ancient Order of Foresters. A zealous Churchman. he also takes a great interest in all that concerns the welfare of the Church, and is a Lay-Reader in the Diocese of Carlisle.

town. It was in the autumn of that year that the attention of Dr. Pooley was first attracted to the value and importance of the ambulance movement, and he at once joined the medical staff of the Rochdale Centre, which was then being formed by Dr. Burdett Sellers. Throwing himself whole heartedly into the work, he lectured to classes both in Rochdale and at Smallbridge and Wardle, and in recognition of his zeal, in 1887, the Central Executive Committee elected him an Honorary Life Member of the St John Ambulance Association; and as a further proof of their appreciation of his services, in Decem ber of the same year they appointed him an Examiner.

Leaving Rochdale, Dr. Pooley acted as an assistant to medical practitioners in both Rawmarsh and Bradford, prior to settling down in practice on his own account, which he did in October, 1891, in the township of Dalton-inFurness.

In addition to the badge of an Hon. Associate of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, the subject of our sketch is also in possession of the medal, issued to those members of the Ambulance Brigade, who did ambulance duty in London on the occasion of the Diamond Tubilee of the late Queen Victoria. He also volunteered for duty on the occasion of the Coronation of King Edward VII., but as is well known, owing to the shortness of the route, the London Corps did not require assistance from the Provincial units, but the worthy doctor in common with a large number of other Provincial members of the Brigade, again did ambulance duty in the Metropolis on the of the Royal Progress in the subsequent October, and It IS a matter for regret, that in recognition of the self-sacrifice which it involved, that they did not share with their London comrades the honour of receiving the King's Coronation Medal. Similar functions, it will be remembered were afterwards held in Edinburgh and Dublin, and upon 'these occasions, we believe, the medal was issued to those undertaking similar duty. Did space permit much more could be about the subject of our sketch. Dr. Pooley lS deservedly esteemed and in the neighbourhood in he resides, and he is certainly one of the most energetlc, as he

is also one of the most popular, members of the No. IV. District Staff, and we but voice the wishes of those who know him, and esteem him on account of his geniality and thoroughness of purpose, when we say that we hope that (or many years yet No. IV. District may have the advantage of his valuable advice and assistance.

" Colman" Cup Competition.

ON Wednesday, October 27th, the annual for the magnificent Challenge Cup presented by SIr J eremiah Colman for competition amongst ambulance teams in the Red HiD district, took place at the King's Hall, Red Hill. By the kindness of Colonel Rawson, Mr . Brodie, M.P., and a few friends of the movement, gold medals were also offered for presentation to the winning team, and silver medals to the second and third teams.

It was a matter for some regret that only four teams competed. These were, Reigate Boro' Police, Red Hill Railway, Reigate RaIlway and Nutfield Railway.

Despite the lack of num bers, however, the work done by the various teams showed a great improvement over that of last year.

The first place was won by the N utfield Railway team with 243 points ; second, by Red Hill Railway with 233; third, by Reigate Railway with 218 ; and the fourth, by the Boro' Police, with 205.

The judging was entrusted to Lieut.-Col. Lees Hall, Mr. J. Flaving acting as competition secretary.

The public meeting held in the evening for the presentation of awards, was presided over by the Mayor of Reigate (Alderman T. Gregory, J.P.), who was supported by the Mayoress, Col. R. H. Rawson, J.p., and Lady Beatrice Rawson, Mr. W. Lees Stenning, J. P., and several members of the Local Committee.

The Mayoress requested Lady Beatrice Rawson to kindly present the awards, and in doing so her ladyship graciously spoke a few words of encouragement to all the reci pients.

In the course of a brief ad<;lress an appeal was made by the Mayor to the many employers of labour in Red Hill, that they would bring the first aid work-a grand work-to the notice of their staffs, urging them to qualify in this important training. He sincerely hoped that a large increase in the number of teams would manifest itself when the time for the next year's competitions CHme round.

Col. Rawson and the Chief Constable of Reigate also spoke on the advantages to be gained by a knowledge of what and what not to do in case of sudden illness or accident, and express e d the pleasure it gave them to realise that the local police and railwaymen were so proficient In the work.

A vote of thanks to Col. Lees Hall, responded to in that gentleman's absence, by Mr. E. A. Richards, to the Mayor for presiding, and to the donors of the prizes, concluded the proceedings.

The various tests are appended, with a reference where the answers are to be found in the text book.

STRETCHER WORK.-TEST S

A man alights from a train whilst it is in motion, but is to get clear of the carriage door, which strikes his head, caUSIng a severe scalp wound and knocks him down upon the

In falling he trips over <;t piece of luggage and a SImple fracture of the left tibia , Do what you conSIder necessary and remove patient to hospital, where he is to be unloaded under the direction of the medical officer.

AI D.- November, 1909.

General.

Immediate arrest of hce morrhage, if any. Page 18. Prevent movement. Page 4['

Cover patient warmly. Page 18.

Attention to breathing, loosen clothing, etc. Page 18.

Examination for any other injuries. Page 17.

Send for doctor stating what has occurred (written message ) Page 20.

Send to hospital stating what has occurred ( written message ) Page 19.

Nothing by mouth if insensible. Page 12 9. Wound on Head.

Examine for foreign bodies. Page 77·

Apply clean absorbent dressing. Page 77·

Bandage. Page 78.

Fra cture

Steady and support limb. Page 41

Extension. Page 4 I.

Examination and care of fracture Page 41

Splints. Page 4I. Bandages. Page 42. Subsequ ent Treatment.

Hot drinks (tea, coffee, milk, etc. ) provided patient can swallow. Page 19.

Sal volat ile in water, provided patient can swallow. Page 20.

Smelling salts. Page 20.

Hot and cold water spr inkled on face. Page 20

Warmth over heart and stoma c h. Page 20. Posit ion of patient. Page 18.

T? -a lZ sp or t.

Preparing and bnnging up stret cher. Testing stretcher, etc. Loading stretcher.

Lifting stretcher. Adjusting slings.

Marching. Lowering stretcher.

Unloading stretcher. Closing stretcher. General smartness.

QUESTIONS. -TESTS.

( I ) What are the rr,eans of arresting ? Dig ital Pressure.

(

1) Direct (on wound ) Page 74.

(2) IndIrect (at pressure point ) Page 74. Instrumen/al Compression.

( I ) Direct (pad and bandage ). Page 74.

(2 ) Indirect (tourniquet at pressure point ) _ Page 74.

Position of patient. Page 74.

Position of limb, raising, flexion. Page 74. Heat or cold. Pages 96-97.

(2 ). A patient stepping into a train falls into a fit of epilepsy. How would you treat the case?

Drag to place of safety. Page 130. Loosen clothing. Page 129.

Position. Page 128. Free circulation of air. Page 129. Protect tongue. Page 132. Support head. Page 130. Gently restrain movements. Page 130. Nothing by mouth. Page 119.

Subsequent care. Page 130.

(3) How do you treat a man who has been run over; no bones are broken, but he has a bad contused and lacerated leg?

Expose wound. Page 77. Clean dressing. Page 77. Cold application. Page IOZ.

Position of limb. Page 78.

Position of patient. Page 18. Shock. Pages 18-19.

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(4). Man who has taken poison is found in a railway carriage. How will you act?

Look out for bottle or packet of poison. Page I5z. Send for doctor at once, stating, if possible, manner of poison. Page 149.

Emetic, if no stains on lip or mouth. Page 149. If not sensible give milk, raw eggs, oil (not mineral, etc. ), Page ISO.

Demulcent drinks.. Page IS0.

Tea. Page ISO.

No emetic if stains about mouth. Page 15 I.

Try to rouse if threatens to go to sleep. Page IS J.

Hot flannels or poultices, if throat swollen. Page 151.

Artificial respiration. Page 152.

Shock. Page 152.

Preserve vomited matter. Page 152.

AIb.The Darren Colliery Explosion.

SPLENDID SERVICE RENDERED BY THE RHYMNEY AMBULANCE DI VISION, S.J.A.B.

(

5) How do you recognise and treat a case of se\'ere abdominal injury with ruptured liver?

Position of injury. Page 113.

Pain and swelling in region of liver. Page 113.

Signs of internal Page 113.

Tre a tm ent.

Lay patient down. Page 96.

Loosen clothing. Page 96.

Free circulation of air. Page 96.

Ice bag over reg ion of l ver. Page 96.

General treatment, internal Page 96. INDIVIDUAL WORK. --TESTS

( I ) Fracture of Humerus near shoulder joint

Broad bandage round limb and body. Page 52.

Small arm sling. Page 52. Knots and neatness.

(2) Fracture of ribs on right s ide with injury to lung, No bandage. Page 48.

PositIOn, inclined towards injured side. Page 48. Loosen clothing. Page 48.

I ce to suck. Page 48.

Ice bag. Page 48

General treatment, internal Page 48.

Large arm sling Page 48

(3) Compound fracture right wrist with arterial hage.

I mmediate arrest of h ce morrhage. Page 77 Tourniquet. Page 78.

Dressing wound. Page 77. Splints. Page 55. Bandages. Page 36.

Large arm sling. Page 56

(4) Depressed fracture of skull with scalp wound. Arrest by ring pad. Page 83. Posit ion. Page 128.

Loosen clothing. Page 129.

Dressing. Page 77. General treatment of insensibility. Page 128. Nothing by mouth. Page 129.

( 5) Wound of front of left knee, involving the joint. Position. Page 77· Dressing. Page 77. Wool round joint. Page I09. Splint. Page J09.

The St. John's Gate Nursing Division are holding a Progressive Whist Drive at Slater's Restaurant, 74, Cheapside, E.c., on November 27th. The proceeds will be devoted to divisional purposes. Tickets, including refreshments, may be obtained from Mrs. J. Calvin Lines, 92, West End-lane, N.W.

When corresponding with Advertisers please mention "First Aid."

MR. WALTER LEWIS,. writing on this tragic occurrence, says noteworthy serVIce and heroic rescue work was renon the occasion by mem bers of the Rhymney DIVISIon of the St. John Ambulance Brigade. Directly after the sad catastrophe had taken place an application was despatched for the attendance of some of the members and the management at once responded to the call: Joseph Jenkins, an official of the Company, who is also the hon. secretary of the Ambulance Division, saysMr. Lewis, appears to have been the most conspicuous of the gallant band of rescuers. On their arrival, he goes on to say, they descended the shaft a.t the same time as myself, and they rendered valuable assIstance to the injured. Prior to descending, and whIle waiting at the pit top to attempt the descent of the pumping shaft by the use of ladders, a call came for volunteers who were use to pit work. The first to resp?nd to the call was Joseph Tenkins, and he, in company WIth others, worked for over an hour removing the shattered fragments from the pit head, and he was the first man to enter the cage to descend the shaft. Arrived at the bottom, he proceeded on to the air-bridge, and at thp. request of Mr. Evan Owen, under manager, assisted to build a temporary air-bridge to enable the rescue party to advance.

While this was being done, Fourth Officer John Philpott, who was in charge of the ambulance men, rendered first aid to a number of the injured at the pit bottom, and his skill and tenderness will be gratefully remembered.

In the meanwhile Corporal Meredith and Private W. H. Lewis and W. R. Hunt, with Dr. Bowen B a rgood, relieved those who had become exhausted in their attempts to resuscitate Edmund Jones and William Thomas, who had been overcome by the afterdamp. The two men had formed part of the first relief party who had gone to the assistance of the unfortunate rescuers - Dr. Turner, David Lewis, and William Edward3, It is gratifying to know that Jon e s and Thomas were successfully brought round by the efforts of Dr. Bargood, assisted by the ambulance men.

Much credit is due to this little band, for they assist e d to convey no less than seventeen persons out the pit.

As soon as the temporary air-bridge was reported as ready for use, Jenkins, in company with one of the workmen, proceeded to rescue work Passing five bodies in the roadway, about thirty-five yards further on, inside the airbridge, they came upon Dr. Turner, who about four hours before had been overcome by the afterdamp. Jenkins at once resorted to artificial respiration, and after he had been engaged at it for twenty minutes, Dr. Davies appeared and advised the removal of Dr. Turner to the other side of the air-bridge.

This proposition was at once effected, and leaving him in charge of other helpers who had now come up, Jenkins Again proceeded forwar,d, this time coming across the bodies of David LeWIS, under-manag(:;r, and WIllIam Edwards the contractor. H e re again he assisted with artificial 'respiration, fully believing that the lives of both might be saved, Subsequently Jenkins himself became exhausted and had to be conveyed ba c k.

Other members of the division who, learning of the disaster, attended and rendered valuable assistance, were

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Gus Thomas, Theo. Giljohn Jones and Jenkins Morgan. These men treated several cases, and Morgan descended the Gilfach pit and, after assisting with thE. artificial respiration, took part in the removal of the rescued from the pit.

The timely arrival of Dr. Redwood, hon. surgeon to the division, was most opportune, as by the administration of oxygen he was enabled to render most invaluable assistance in the resuscitation of Dr. Turner.

This was the first occasion which the members of the Rhymney Division have had of proving their ability, and they acquitted themselves admirably, and proved conclusively the value of keeping in readiness for any emergency such a body of skilled and thoroughly trained ambulance men.

AI D.- November, 1909.

each, one is struck by the fact that the hard working and enthusiastic honorary secretary himself lectured to no less than twelve classes, a proof of the old adage that it is always the busy man who finds he has yet time to do something more.

Interesting accounts of the various presentations and other gatherings held during the year are given, and in concluding the report Col. Twiss calls attention to the Voluntary Aid Detachments now being formed by the British Red Cross Society, and points out that it should be the aim of every ma.n and woman to learn the work, in order that as individuals they may be the better enabled to help their fellows in distress. As members of the brigade they may serve their fellow citizens, and, in addition, as members of the Voluntary Aid Detachments, not only care for their friends and relatives, but also be ab le to serve their king and country.

We are glad to note that Col. Twiss when referring to the V.A.D. says in addition. Our readers will gather from this that in Hampshire, at all events, efforts will be made to run the two organisations together, in order that there shall be no friction. If this can be done in each county it will go a long way towards allaying the very natural feelings of apprehension which have been aroused by the introduction of the new scheme.

No. District (Metropolitan Corps.)

Just as we go to press we learn, with sincere regret, that District Superintendent of Stores, S. B. Piers, bas had to resign his appointment owing to ill-health. Mr. Piers has for some time past seemed far from well, but his many friends hoped that in time he would recover his usual form, such, however, was not to be, and we now learn that his resignation has been accepted with regret by the Deputy-Commissioner of the District-a regret which we feel sure will be shared by members of the Brigade who know Mr. Piers.

No. I3 (KING'S CROSS, G.N.R.) DrvIslON.-We have received from the Hon. Secretary of this Division, a copy of the Annual Report. A perusal of its pages shows that interest in the work is still well maintained. During the past year I,9I2 cases received first treatment, making a total of I4,996 smce the formatlOn of the Division. Striking evidence of the value of first aid at this larO'e railway station. As usual the Division has responded w:ll to all calls received from Headquarters for volunteers for public duty. Gratification is at the signal honour upon the DlvlslOn by the enrolment of Second Officer Sebnght as an Honorary Serving Brother of the Order of S.t. J A team representing the Division was successful III wmnmg the Challenge Cup presented by the Officers of the Company for annual competition. The shows that the financial position of the PIV1SlOP.. IS thoroughly sound, a condition of affairs which IS no d?ubt largely due to the zeal and attention exercised over th!s department by the Hon. Secretary and Treasurer respectively.

No.2 District.

SOUTHAMPTON.-The annual report of this centre is a record of a year's good work in every branch of ambulance work, ar:d .Col. Twiss is more to be congratulated on the gratlfymg. result. Thirty-nine classes have been held, and 935 etc., have been issued. On looking down the Itst of classes and the names of the instructor to

Just one little note of criticism. We were sorry to note that on the front page of the report the motto of the Order is incorrect it is no doubt a printer's error, but in the prominent position which it occupies it meets the eye at once. We trust that we may be pardoned for calling attention to this very slight error, in what is otherwise a most excellent report, both as regards compilation and also in the letterpress portion of the production.

No. 3 District.

Ip SWICH.- The photograph on next page shows a group of the members of the "Gippeswyk" Division, who attended the annual inspection held on Sept. 25th last, on fine grounds of Orwell Lodge, Belstead-road, Ipswich, km d\y lent by Mr. W. F. Paul. The inspecting officer, Chief Surgeon S O. Eades (who attended on behalf of Col. Elliston), is seen seated in the centre of the group with Supt. F. H. Gooderham (in command) on his right and Mr. A. H. W. Moffat (hon. member and treasurer) on his left.

In commenting upon the work of the Division, Chief Surgeon Eades expressed himself as highly pleased with all he had seen and especially praised the members for their smart appearance. He was particularly pleased to see so many members had volunteered their services for the Military Home Reserve, 15 in all, including their Supt.., had undergone a week's military trammg III the MIlItary Hospital at Colchester. He recommended the Royal Naval Sick Berth Reserve to those members who were anxious to show their patriotism in another sphere of work.

KETTERING.-A pleasant social gathering took place on October 26th, the occasion being the presentation of the" Raby." Cup to the winning squad, captained by Sergt. C. W. CurtIS. The presentation, which was kindly made by Mrs. Leslie Dryland, the wife of the popular Chief Surgeon of the corps, was held at the Church Institute.

Ra?y, the donor ?f. the cup, opened the proceedings WIth a bnef speech remllllscent of ambulance work in the town in the early days of the movement.

The cup having been presented, Supt. Secretary Lane,

November, 1909. -FIRST

worthy son of a worthy sire, proposed a vote of thanks to Mrs. Dryland for her kind services in attending and making the presentation. On behalf of the corps he wished Supt. Raby, who is leaving Kettering for a while, "God Speed" and a safe return.

In acknowledging the vote, Dr. Dryland said it had given Mrs. Dryland much pleasure to attend on that occasion and make the presentation. Referring to Mr. Raby's intending departure, he desired to associate himself with the good wishes for his journey and safe return. When he returned to them he would doubtless be able to tell them something ambulance work in other parts of the world , and perhaps give them a lecture on what he had seen on his travels. In conclusion he once more thanked them on behalf of Mrs. Dryland for their kind vote.

A capital musical programme had been arranged and gre'ltly added to the enjoyment of the evening.

No. 5 District.

FEATHERSTONE.-Following on our last month's report of the Brierfield Ambulance Competition, a few particulars

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Pte. J. W. Brooke had the honour of winning the " Individual" prize at Brierfield.

No. 6 District.

H ULL.- The mem bers of the Great Central Division had a very enjoyable evening last month when they assembled together at the Grey-street Rooms under the chairmanship of the ex-Chief Supt. Hopper, who was supported by District Chief Supt. Johnson and several of the Corps and Divisional Officers.

A capital musical programme had been arranged and during evening several presentations were made past and present mem bers of the Division. Ex-Supt. Winter, who has recently retired, was the recipient of a very handsome writing case subscribed for by the members. In making the presentation District Chief Supt. Johnson paid a well merited tribute to the splendid work done by Mr. Winter, whose resignation was regretted by all ranks Presentations were next made to Ptes Cherry, Hahn, and McDonald. In presenting First Officer Howell with three service stars, Dr. Johnson mentioned that he had made a

"GIPPESWYK " DI\TISION, S. J.A.B.

as to the winning team, and the Brigade with which they are connected, will be of interest to our readers.

The Ackton Hall Colliery team belong to Featherstone, the scene of the famous riots. The colliery, which is one of the largest in Yorkshire, belongs to the Hon. J. C. Lister, and Councillor R. Holiday, J.P. (the agent) takes a keen interest in ambulance work, much of the success of which in Featherstone is due to his generous support.

The Colliery Division was sanctioned in December, 19 08 , and the strength is :- An Honorary Surge.on, a Superintendent, a Sergeant, a Corporal, and 19 pnvates. The team, drawn from members of the Division, have taken part in fourteen competitions this year, and have had successes of which they may well feel proud. They have won five first prizes (including three shields), viz., Elland (the" Dempster" Shield), Brierfield (the" Tunstill Memorial Shield "), Pontefract (the Pontefract Challenge Shield), Heckmondwike, and Huddersfield two second prizes-Derby (in the preliminary round for .the "J?ewar Challenge Shield") and Ardsley four thIrd pn zesPontefract (in the preliminary round for the "Mines" Shield), Cleckheaton, Harrogate and Castleford; one fifth prize-Bradford.

record attendance and had also attended :all the necessary examinations. In presenting, on behalf of Mr. Howell, a handsome rose bowl to the Division for annual competition, Dr. Johnson thanked Mr. Howell f?r. handsome gift, and expressed the hope that other dlVlslOnal would copy his example, as he felt sure that the competitIOn for the trophy would be the means of increasi.nf!, the efficiency of the old members and encourage recrUltmg for new mem bers.

In a few well chosen words, Mr Howell expressed the pleasure he felt at the reception of his gift, stating that he felt sure that men would do more for honour than they would do for money, and in order to secure the trophy they would work hard to increase their t.o which he hoped that it would lead to an mcrease m theIr numbers, and if such was the case he should feel amply repaid.

Several votes of thanks were accorded, and Dr. Johnson was asked to accept, on behalf of Mrs. Johnston, a handsome bouquet. From every point of view the gathering, which was an invitation one on the part of the officers, was an undoubted success, and was thoroughly enjoyed by all present.

Brevities.

THE present Naval Officer in charge of the Sick Berth Reserve (Staff-Surgeon A. C. Bean, R.N.) is deservedly popular amongst the men of the S.lA.B., for since his appointment he has shown that he appreciates all that they do to perfect themselves in their duties, and he shows a willingness to help them in every way in his power. Speaking at a recent inspection, he said that he had been asked the question: "Would they get any training? It was his firm belief that they would, and anything that could be done on his part would be done for them in regard to it. He had already pointed out to the Admiralty the necessity for ship training j whilst at the same time they must stick to their books. They had one object to achieve, and that was tv be able to do something that other people could not do. He claimed with twelve years' of sea service to know something of the requirements, and he imagined what would happen on board without ambulance aid. He especially realised the neGessity of having first aid men and nursing men on board. He had been teaching sailors first aid ever since he joined the service, but in his opinion it was not the sailors' or soldiers' duty to tend the wounded, it was their place to fight, and he W.lS perfectly certain there would be no lack of am bulance men to aid and succour the wounded. He was glad to know that several of them had signed their mobilisation forms, which meant should war unfortunately break out they could be called upon for active service at twenty-four hours' notice.

AT an inquest at Escrick last month, both the Coroner and the medical man who gave evidence deplored the fact that the deceased had lost her life owing to the fact that those about her at the time she met with a simple accident had no knowledge of first aid. The evidence of the witnesses went to show that the deceased, while gathering apples, climbed over a low wall, and in doing so scratched her leg on a piece of wire. The wound at once began to bleed freely, but she only laughed at the injury, saying the loss of a little blood would do her good. Later, however, she became unconscious, and a farm foreman who was fetched bandaged the wound and stopped the bleeding, at the same time sending for the doctor. The girl, however, died before the arrival of the medical man. The evidence of Dr. Faulkner showed that a varicose vein had been injured, and the girl had practically bled to death. Had anyone with an elementary knowledge of what to do been present, said the witness, the girl's life would have been saved. The wound only required an handkerchief bound round it as a mater of fact the bleeding ceased after the last witness bandaged it. " I cannot help expressing my regret," he added, "that the elementary knowledge required to cover such a case as this is not taught to everyone at school." The wire had merely scratched a varicose vein-a ridiculously simple thing to cause death. The Coroner(Mr. J.

A I D.·- N ovem ber, 1909.

R. Wood) endorsed the doctor's remarks, and quite agreed that the teaching of " first aid" in schools would be a good and practical thing.

First Aid Essay Competition.

WE have been much gratifierl at the result of this competition, the number of competitors far exceeding our expectations, whilst the excellence of the several papers is amply vouched for by the judge's report, which we append :-

"It gives me pleasure to report on the general excellence of the papers sent for this competition. I should class at least sixty of them as 'good,' and twelve as 'very good.' I found it a difficult matter to select two out of these for prizes, as I consider anyone of the twelve worthy ofa prize. A few were quite good as literary essays-apart from their am bulance merit. I place' Little ] im' first and 'Ferro' second. The following are highly commended-' Sympathy,' 'N.E.D.,' 'Voluntary,' 'Haufen' and' Ffaldau.'

" Five competitors did not observe the rule about writing under a nom-de-plume. Some of the competitors failed through treating the cases A, B, C, and D in order, thus leaving C to continue bleeding. Others, whilst commencing with C, finished the treatment of this case before proceeding to the next most urgent-thus losing valuable time. One competitor (who wrote an otherwise excellent essay) spoiled his chance by stopping artificial respiration on B, presuming life extinct before the arrival of the doctor. Others used brandy as a stimulant without the doctor's order (see Cantlie, p. 19).

"This competition amply proves that first aid amongst miners has reached a very high degree of perfection.

"(Signed) S. HAMILTON."

The FIRST PRIZE is awarded to MR. GEORGE CHRISP,

Silverwood Colliery, Rotherham.

SECOND PRIZE to

MR. C. P. FINN, Hemsworth Colliery, Near Wakefield, Yorks.

MR. GEORGE CHRISP'S PAPER.

My mate and I are filling a tub preparatory to making " snap," when instinctively as it were, we both cease, and listen attentively for the repetition of a fancied cry. We are not mistaken for up the" gate" is again shouted. "Ow Jim!" "Aye lad!" I answer, and make my way to the " gate end," where I meet a collier from another district, who gasps out: "Heavy fall up NO.2 South in 43 s, five or six chaps buried, get up as soon as you can."

I put a few hurried questions and learn there are no ambulance men on the scene of the accident, but my informant has been sent to fetch a dozen or more from the nearest places.

I tell him to see that stretchers, splints, bandages, rugs and other appliances are sent up, and also to call at "Box Hole" and telephone surface to send for the doctor, and to have the examination room warmed and the surface ambu-

November, 1909. -FIRST

ance men and equipment ready for when the injured are sent to "bank."

I now run back to my place, throw on a scarf and jacket, seize my lamp and" Dudley," which is full of tea, am copied by my mate, to whom I have rapidly explained the position, and we're off.

On reaching the" straight gate," we stop a moment at our ambulance station, get a stock of splints, bandages, etc., and hurry forward. From the "travelling road" we can hear the" haulage" running, and I instruct my mate to make his way down a "slit" to the haulage road and signal to the motor man - " Accident-empty cage-then stop." This is to allow the stretcher bogies to come up and return on a clear road. I leave my mate to follow and pressing on myself, reach the" fall."

Immediately I notice that whilst the rescuers are not ambulance men, they are practical colliers, as the place to which they have carried the injured is quite safe and ventilation is good though not too strong.

In my preliminary examination of the injured I conclude that A has suffered a painful but not necessarily serious injury and can be left for the moment with but a word or two of cheer.

Beyond loosening B's shirt, neck scarf, &c., I conclude for the moment that I can do nothing for him and I pass on, choking down a sob.

On reaching the lad, C, I lay him gently down, place his arm over his chest and apply a bandage tourniquet, using the little driver's whip stock to tighten up. I keep up a running conversation with A and C, more to encourage them than anything else, whilst undoing D's neck clothes, I learn that poor B was completely .burried )n the "fall."

This gives me an idea, and as assistance has now arrived with full equipment, I detail one man to apply Schiifers method of artificial respiration to B. Another man I instruct to dress A's leg, which is bare, by applying lint soaked in sterilised water (from supply of same in box) and then splints and bandages in case of fracture.

Two more men are told off to attend to the boy by treating him for shock, guarding against fainting, and cut up his shirt sleeve, wash the wound and dress it with boric lint, make and apply an angular splint to the underside of his arm, and support the whole in a large arm sling. Rugs are placed over him and A.

Other men are making a ring pad and applying it and lint to D's head, which is raised slightly, and covered with a "scull cap." Cold water is sprinkled on his face and chest.

Meanwhile I have had a few words with the man who is still partially buried given him a drink of tea, whispered a few words to his rescurers explaining his condition and warning them to be careful in extricating him that they move the obstructions from the man and not v£ce v ersa, also to see that he doesn't attempt to roll over, or otherwise exert his spine.

The man who is attending to B is now tiring and I ask another assistant to relieve him In his apparently hopeless task. However, after some time we are gratified to observe signs of returning animation, and a few minutes later B is breathing spasmodically, and we conform our artificial movements to the patient's gasps. Then we apply friction to the limbs, to restore circulation, and further induce respiratlon by sprinkling his face and neck with cold water and holding smelling salts to his .nose.

The under manager has now arnved, and I respectfully point out that we have five cases requiring the. carriage ambulance and have only facilities for dealing WIth three

at the surface, and suggest borrowing two more from adjacent pits. This idea is promptly fallen in with and word to that effect sent out.

By this time the last patient is free, and I call three of St. John's men to assist me in treating him. He is on very uneven surface so it is not possible to pass elther a rug or splints under him; his coat is off. We therefore carefully pass four bandages under him (the strongest available) his feet <lre tied together, a stretcher bogie with levelling adjustment is run up close to us with a tested stretcher on it.

Two men stand at either side of patient, take a firm grip of the bandages, with thumbs pressing down on splints at each side of patient to keep the level, and at the word of command, we lift and side step to stretcher. The patient is carefully placed thereon and I obtain hot water from the thermos flasks recently added to our outfit, fill three "Dudleys" and place one at each side of his body and one at his feet, a rug overall, and, after another mouthful of tea, he is dispatched to the surface with four bearers in attendance. (Only his back is hurt.)

The boy C has now received the best attention we can give him, the bleeding is controlled, he is well wrapped up and watched for fainting, placed on another bogie stretcher, and with a reminder to the two men in charge of him to have an occasional look at the tourniquet, he is sent off. D is now recovering, but has occasional lapses into unconsciousness. He is loaded up carefully and despatched with four men, who have wrapped him well up. The man A is also ready by this time, he is loaded up, given a drink of tea, and sent off with two more bearers. The man B is now able to take a drink of tea or warm water with a drop of spirits of sal volitile in it. He is placed on another bogie stretcher, warm water bottles improvised as before, are placed round him (as in fact is done in each of the cases) a rug is put on him and we set out for the shaft with him. At the oit bottom we learn that three cases have already gone up· to " bank," in good condition, the haulage is restarted so that the work of our great pit can proceed, and we are drawn to the surface with the two remaining cases. Here we find the doctor in attendance and our work is done. We return in the descending cage to our arduous toil at the coal face with hearts full of sympathy for the injured and their relatives, and thanking God for the training we have received through the S.lA.A. which has enabled us to be of some service to our fellow workers in their time of need.

A PERSONAL EXPLANATION. - In our September number reference was made to a meeting at Headcorn, and to a statement which was made there by one of the speakers, claiming Ashford as the birthplace of the first ambulance corps in this country. This, we stated, was contrary to fact and we also stated that in our opinion the speaker have known this at the time he made the statement. The gentleman in question subsequently wrote us, pointing out that he had made the statement in all good faith as he had done several times before, and he therefore felt very keenly the imputation which was We c.an only say that our assertion was also made good falth, and without malice and only after full enqUIry as to the date, &c. However: we accept our correspondent's explanation that the statement was made in all good faith, and express regret if our language was somewhat severe. We trust that we may now consider the subject closed,. that the claim of Margate to have been the first Clvll Ambulance Corps has been satisfactorily proved.

Hall of the Wesleyan Chapel, Willesden Green, and was well atcended, several of the principal officers of the Company being present.

November, 1909. -FIRST

AI D.- 75

of the class at Lydd for the ensuing season. The Mayor of Lydd was present, also Col. Finn, Mr. H. Finn, and Mr. Henneker. Previous to the meeting Dr. Oliver entertained a number of men from the Ashford District to a meat tea.

G. E. R- The usual meeting of the Lowestoft Division of this centre was held in the concert room, South Pier Pavilion on Friday, October 23rd, when the officers for th e year were elected. It was decided that the local competitions for the mem bers of the division should be held on or about December 14th. Drs. Wilson Tyson and Barradell-Smith kindly consented to act as judges. In additio n to the usual prizes for the older hands it was decided to have a prize •

Dr. Oliver congratulated the Lydd class on the way in which the work had been taken up, and said that the position which it had taken in the recent competition was one of which every individual member might be proud. As" first aid lJ men frequently stood between life and death they needed therefore not only to be quick in actions but quick in intelligence. He would not be satisfied until one of the directors' cups fotmd its way to the Lydd District. and if they would all pull together as they had done in the past he was sure that the day was not far distant when this hope would be realised.

On Tuesday, November 23rd, a. smoking concert will be held at the Station Hotel, Hither Green, in aid of the funds of the Hither Green Corps. A pleasing musical programme has been arranged, and all ambulance men are invited to attend.

splicing, there should remain after the shortening resulting from the binding at a and b, and allowing for the stretching of the rope, sufficient length to allow the stretcher to swing about 6 in. to 8 in from the floor of the wagon. Finally, one of the most important points to be considered in connection with the security and -:::omfort of those to be transported, is the accurate fastening of the tier of stretchers to the screw rings, or hooks in the floor. In conjunction with each tier of stretchers there are six rings arranged under the handles in threes. The three

In the course of an interesting address the chairman said that the Directors, in order to encourage the men to become proficient in ambulance work, had given a Shield to be competed for annually by teams representing the different departments, and las t year it was won by the Traffic Department. He would like to see more teams enter for it another year, and it would give him the greatest possible pleasure to see it won by Neasden next year. This year the winners would have medals awarded them, the gift of Mr. Jones, whilst Mr. Holt, the Traffic Supt., had promised them for next year. Nothing was easier to forget than ambulance work, and he hoped as many as possible would attend the practice classes. Hitherto they had had no settled home for these classes, which had been a great disadvantage, but he had much pleasure in announcing that arrangements were nearly completed for securing a for the best man among THE YORK CARRIAGE AND WAGOl\' snops TEAl\I OF THE room near one of their circle stations, which would be allocated as the headquarters of these classes. He concluded by paying a warm tribute to the zeal of their lecturer, Dr. Carvell, also to the committee, and to the secretary, Mr. Percy, who, the chairman said, had worked "like a trojan," and had never been disheartened in the face of diffi c ulty or disappointment. Before separating a hearty vote of thanks was awarded to the chairman for presiding.

first year men, it being N.E.R. CENTRE, WITH TIlE TROPHIES THE\T felt that they were some- HAVE WeN DURING THE PAST YEAR. what handicapped by having to compete amongst their more experienced comrades. The best five men In this contest will be selected as a team to represent Lowestoft in the competition for the G.E.R cup. [Tw a it es ]

Rail way Ambulance Transport.

(Continued from page 52).

HULL & BARNSLEY

RAILWAY.- Thirty - six members of the Neptune-street and Springhead Divisions were present at the Hull Museum on Sunday, October 31st, when Mr. T. Sheppard, the curator, deli vered an instructive lecture on the " Anatomy of the Human Body." G II. Mallard.

The Lecturer dealt with the construction of the human body in an interesting manner, illustrating his r e marks with actual specimens of human bones. He also drew comparisons showing the remarkable similarity between the construction of the human body and that of the other members of the animal kingdom.

Supt. F. Wilson proposed a vote of thanks to Mr. Sheppard, and Mr. J. Larder, Goods Supt., seconded, remarking that the lecture would undoubtedly stimulate their knowledge, and to enable th e m to better und e rstand how to treat cases of accident.

The vote of thanks was heartedly carried by the mem bers, and many then took advantage of the opportunity to look round the museum.

METROPOLITAN.-On October 19th, Mr. R H. Selbie, general manager, distributed first aid certificates and other awards gained during the past year by employes of the Company. The ceremony took place in the Lecture

S.-E. & C.R. - In appreclatlOn of the work done by the ambulance men throughout this system, and as an encouragement to them to come up for re-ex-

amination year by year, the directors have decided, on the recommendation of the Centre, that a bronze medal of a special design shall be issued to all am bulance men passing a first aid examination for 7 years in succession, silver medal for those passing 14 years in succession, and a gold medal in the case of those passing for 21 years in succession. This to date from the formatlOn of the centre in 1903, so that men who have passed each year since that date should be well on the way to receive this award.

This further proof of interest in the work by the officers of the company will, we are sure, be received with much gratification by the am bulance men throughout the system.

It has also come to our notice that the station masters have again expressed their intention of providing, by means of a Shilling Fund, substantial prizes for distribution at the annual meeting in April next.

On Saturday, October 23rd, a smoking concert was held at the George Hotel, Lydd, to inaugurate the opening

We next come to the poles which will be required. Thesp. should, as a rule, be 7 ft. 6 in. in length and 4 in. in diameter, but should they be slightly longer it will not matter. Stretcher poles, especially if made of ash, would be quite suitable for the purpose indeed, ash is the very best wood which could be used, as the weight of four to six men is considerable. The poles must be bound by cord to the cable, in the manner shown in the diagram, Fig. 3. In many drawings of this arrangement, says the Editor of "Longmore's Manual," the poles taper their extremities. No advantage is, however, gained by this, hut rather the reverse, for the cords supporting the

F. G

stretchers are liable to slip off, especially while the train IS in motion, and proceeding round a curve in the track.

A drawing showing the disposition of the ropes supporting the stretchers was given in our October issue on page 5 I.

The 75 yards of rope referred to as bemg requlSlte for ca.rrying out this scheme will be utilis e d for the purpose of supportmg the stretchers in th e following :-

It must be cut into lengths of 12 [t. and sphced, each length forming a loop. For its support stretcher will require four loops These are to laId over the pole, commencing 6 in. from each extremIty, the second loops being 22 in. from the first and nearer to the centre; now, by the means of the wax and twine the loops are to be tightly bound immediately beneath the pole at a, and again at b at a point half-way between the pole and the end of the loop, v. In doing this .there is a tendency to allow too little space for the lower Th e length of the rope mentioned need not be consldered as absolutely compulsory but the lengths cut should be proved in the following madner :-Take the rope and loop it over and then draw the two pieces straight down to WIthin 6 m. of the floor of the wagon, then, leaving sufficient length for

rt".4

rings are disposed th!.ls-one under the near handle, another under the off handle, and the third being placed equidistant between the two others. The rope is looped at one end and laid over the near handle, and threaded through the first ring, which we will as No. I ring, and being drawn as tightly as pOSSible, IS taken up to the same handle and turned round it twice, the second time overlapping the first; it is then taken across th.rough the centre ring (No.2 ) and over th e off .handle, and directly through the off side ring (No. to the 0tf handle it makes one turn, and at thiS pomt the whole IS. drawn tight, a second tum which should overlap the first IS made, and the rope fastened off. There are. two practIcal points here, which should be carefully superVIsed those directing the transport arrangements: the IS that the" ties" are only tied to the floor Injured are loaded. The tieing should take place the latter operation is accomplished, and under no cJ[cumstances should a train, carrying wounded passengers be allowed to

start until it has been reported th at this has been satisfactorily accomplished. It should also be borne in mind that the tighter these "tie-ropes" are drawn the greater the comfort of those to be conveyed in the train.

The loading and unloading of the. wounded may be expeditiously carried out in follow.lng :-The injured having received first aId attenl10n wIll be brought

Mr. G. Jackson Dr. R. Fell. G Sambrook. A. Alkinson (capl.) S. Fisher. C. Smilh.

-FIRST

to a convenient place to the train into which they are to be loaded the men told off for the duty will place the injured the train, loading the upper tier first, and finishing wIth the lower ones. The No. 4'S of the last detachments to load should remain behind and see to the securing of the stretchers to the floor of the wagon. !he operation') for unloading are reversed; the having been unfastened, the stretchers are successIvely removed, commencing with the lower tier first. The operation of loading and unloading the s,ick and wounded into a train composed of goods wagons IS one that wants the greatest possible care and attention, it is impossible therefore to devote too much time to its study and application, and the skill and neatness with which it is carried out, may be regarded as a good test of the knowledge of railway transport for the sick, possessed by the men engaged in carrying out the drill or demonstration.

These articles on Railway Ambulance Transport will not appear consecutively but will be given from time to time, and will be interspersed with other articles which we trust will prove of interest to our readers.

Reviews.

THE FAITH AND WORKS OF CHRISTAIN SCIE CEo

THIS work, which is from the pen of Stephen Paget, the author of" Confessio Medica," is a scathing expose on many of the methods of this sect, and we should advise all those who are inclined to accept this doctrine, as laid down by Mrs. Eddy and her disciples, and those who are now under its influence, to to obtain this work and carefully study the arguments which the author brings forward to show how unreliable are the statements of cures which are claimed by the Christain Scientists as having been effected through its methods.

Referring to the so-called testimony of grateful patients, the author ridicules these testimonies, the majority of which are not worth the paper on which they are printed. Every advertisement of a new quack remedy publishes similar testimonies. The author admits that outside the questionable records published each week in the Sentinel, the recognised organ of the Society, there are innumerable unpublished cases of pleasanter people, many of them leading lives of singular refinement, who are undoubtedly the better for Christian Science. "They have become," says the author, " happier, healthier, more confident, more active, less apt for gossip against their acquaintance, and more successful in business; whereby they have fallen in love again with life."

This is undoubtedly true, we, ourselves, know one or two hypochondriacs who are undoubtedly brighter and less prone to morbid fancies since their study of Christian Science_ It is fLlrther proof that imagination will do much. Apart from bis expose of this so-called science, which the author undoubtedly proves to be largely a mixture of falsehood and trickery' the book is written in such a happy vein of critical good hu:nour that it is interesting throughout. Our advise to our readers is to get a copy and you will endorse our views. I t is published by Macmillan and Co., Ltd., St. Martin's-street, London. Price 3S. 6ci.

J. & A. CHURCHILL'S ILLUSTRATED CATALOGUE.

THE fir.m of Churchill is well known as being responsible for the publIcatIOn of most of our standard medical works and it is justly noted for the excellent way in which those are produced under careful supervision. The illustrated Catalosue just to hand isno exception to the rule, it is beautifully and has eVIdently been compiled with the greatest pos.slble care. It has been arranged that its pages may be eaSIly consulted for reference. The books are classified under their various and show how effectively the different schools of medIcal sCIence are looked after. This will also be

AID. - November, 1909.

readily seen by a glance at the index to authors, wherein will be seen the important and influential nature of the literary work in both medicine and science here set out. The illustrations also are worthy of more than passing mention, as they undoubtedly give an added interest to the Catalogue as a book of reference.

" Robeyphone."

THE chill winter nights are now rapidly approaching when the householder gathers round the cheerful fireside, outdoor attractions are now no longer possible after sundown, and the members of the family circle are on the lookout for something to interest them and help them to pass the long winter evenings. To those who are not already in possession of one we would suggest a "Robeyphone," which is one of the leading specialities supplied by :\1r. George Robey, the World's Provider, Coventry.

Mr. Robey has for many years made a study of the best makes of" Phone" machines, and his large and extensive stock comprises all those of the best make, while his prices and terms of payment are such as will commend them to those whose means are limited. Mr. Robey issues an illustrated Catalogue which is replete with interesting novelties, and contains some useful advice to the intending purchaser of a machine Send a post-card to Mr. George Robey, the World's Provider, Coventry, for one of his illustrated Catalogues, and do not forget to mention that you saw his advertisement in FIRST Am.

"Typhoid Carriers."

THE COMPULSORY ISOLATION OF ApPARENTLY HEALTHY PERSONS.

OF recent medical developments nothing has so completely mystified the man in the street as the discovery that persons in apparently good health are capable of carrying infectious germs for an indefinite period and distributing them amongst their friends and neighbours. These "carriers," as they are called amongst the doctors, are obviously a danger to the community, and every effort is being made in hospitals and laboratories to find some effective means of driving the objectional bacteria from the systems of afflicted persons.

The recent action of Sir William Collins in drawing the attention of Parliament to the detention of five soldiers at Millbank Military Hospital at once interested the general public in a matter that has hitherto been confined to professional circles. These soldiers, as the resul t of close observation by army surgeons, were strongly suspected of harbouring and excreting the bacillus of typhoid. One of them in panicular had been responsible for the outbreak of several cases in his own regiment, and other cases occurred from time to time in units which happened to be quartered in his neighbourhood. All five of the soldiers referred to, as Mr. Haldane was careful to inform the House of Commons, exhibited no signs of ill-health beyond the excreation of bacilli. He admitted that so far no cure had been effected by the use of vaccines at Millbank, though persisted in for many weeks, and he added that cases had been recorded in which the bacilli were excreted by typhoid patients two years after they had been discharged from hospital as " cured 1"

Obviously, no one who appreciated his liberty would care to be confined in hospital for an indefinite period, especially when enjoying apparently robust health, and the solution of the" carrier" trouble, therefore, clearly affects the interest of every citizen.

Early in 1900 the then medical superintendent of the Honsall Fever Hospital at Man-

November, 1909. -FIRST

chester- probably the largest institution of its kind in this country-contributed to the medical press a note on the internal treatment of typhoid fever on antiseptic lines. He claimed to have used medical Oil with remarkable results, inasmuch as he found that when the drug was administered for a sufficiently long period, the bacilli of the coli-typhoid group usually disappears and the patients were discharged free from any suspicion of being" carriers."

During the first year that this internal antiseptic treatment was introduced at the Honsall hospital the mortality from enteric fever was the lowest on record for that institution. It will not unlikely prove that the remedy for chronic "carriers" will be found in the internal administration of antiseptics such as Medical Izal Oil-a method of treatment now being extensively used in fever hospitals at home and abroad.

New Cycle Ambulance Carriage.

WE are at all times pleased to hear of improvements and new methods in connection with am bulance equipment, which have been designed by ambulance workers, proving as it does how thoroughly their heart is in the work in which they are engaged.

From Settle, in Yorkshire, we have just received particulars of a new Cycle Am bulance Carriag-= which has been designed by the local Am bulance Division, and of which we are please to give an illustration.

AID.- 77

handy little carriage a very good substitute. We certainly think that it should prove of advantage to the Royal Army :vIedical Staff Corps, whether Regular or Territorial, as a read,Y means of transport either at manceuvres or on actual servlce_

Lord Mayor's Day.

As one honoured on several occasions to form an umt m the "procession" which has for centuries been known as "The Lord Mayor's Show"-and fully aware that this year it would be shorn of several of its attractions as a spectacular display, so dear to the hearts of children, and also to many of older growth-I confess that I would have again been glad to take part in it) if only as affording an opportunity for the expression of my gratification that we live in times when the highest municipal, as well as political, honours are open to men of honourable chu.racter, regardless of their membership of any particular church.

After many years of useful service in the ancient Corporation of the City of London, Sir John Knill, Bart., was chosen by the Liverymen, on the recommendation of the Court of Aldermen, to be chief magistrate of the world's greatest city, and was very heartily welcomed on en tering upon his duties and responsi bi Ii ties.

Well now, what of "The Show?" We were fa voured, on

The carriage is to be propelled by four riders, and is constructed by coupling two tandem cycles together, with the steering attachment in front.

The stretcher is placed

CYCLE Al\lBULANCE CARRIAGE DESIGKED BY TIlE ME.\fBERS OF THE SETTLE DIYISION.

November 9th, contrary to expectation, with a fine day. I had traversed much of the route the day previous, and founel the contractors for the decorations had wisely delayed completing their work in the streets and on London Bridge. Being this year off duty, I in the centre of the carriage and in full view of all the riders. When in use on the road and running with a patient it is said to travel most smoothly, and to be a most comfortable means of transporting sick or injured patients.

The machine the stretcher frame of which will take any of the "Fu;ley" pattern stretchers, has been specially designed and constructed, and special care and attention has been given to the most minute details, espEcially those appertaining to strength and rigidity. It is so made that one side is easily detachable from the other, thereby enabling it to pass through any ordinary doorway, added to which it can thereby be stowed away in a smaller space than when fixed together. Patients who have been transported by its aid speak highly of its comfort and easy running.

We consider that the carriage would prove most useful in collieries, factories and other large works, and many Divisions in even some of our larger towns, who cannot afford the up-keep of a horse ambulance, might find this

was free to see the exceptionally long procession at different points of the ' route, and at. the skill with which the artillery brIgades negotIated their guns through the narrowest of the streets. Having, during a residence of nearly half a century in London seen" The Show" many times, not, as the old woman said, "Hundreds of times," I have no hesitation saying that the absence of variety this year la:gely counted the interest of the vast throngs gathered m antICIpation of witnessing one of the excellent of recent years; hence the lack of enthUSiasm as It passed along.

The revival of the custom of the processIOn bemg joined by the Lady Mayoress .Knill) her bevX of beauties-as" maIds of honour, reheved The Show of the monotony of an almost exclusive. military display, also did the presence of a fine contmgent of s Volunteer Firemen, under the command and supenntendence of Captains Stillwell, Rushforth, Dane, Pratt, Watts,

-FIRST

Moir Beaven Carter and Cockerill, accompanied by three one of which carried the City Silver Shield and the winners thereof for thIS year-The Robertson Electric Lamp Fire Brigade.

These features in "The Show," as well as the officers and boys and band of the Royal Naval Training and the Gordon Boys Highland Pipers, not forgettmg the "Balaclava Hero es," all e lecited hearty applause.

The bands were- as always-good, but the long route included Trinity-sq uare, E., as well as the New Law Courts; at both points the procession necessarily and then it became a medley of music, each band plaYIng a rull blast as they passed each other, and then by ill-luck coming to sudden halts neither party of would yield precedence which, with the incessant clangIng of the church bells, produced a complete babel-more remarkable than artistic.

The Territorials (numbering 1,600), the and inde e d eac h branch of the military represented, despite the many haits, marched well.

The Bridge Ward presented thp.lr address in terms hi gh ly complimentary to their repr ese ntative, facetiously alluded to as Knill II. The police as usual did their work well, the -only serious accident I have heard of being to two men, through the artillery horses getting out of line and among the crowd at Ludgate Circus, both needed hospit.al treatment. The Sheriffs in State and the Lord Mayor In his ancient State coach suitably brought up the rear of the processIOn.

The firemen having lunched in the open at Wellington-street, Strand, gathered in the evening as usual for dinner as the g u ests of the Lord Mayor and Sheriffs at their headquarters, Mason's Hall-ave nue, presided over by Capt. Rushforth, of Messrs. Merrywp.ather, when a social evening with much enjoyed. Interesting speeches on the volunteer work and progress of the 800 members of the brigades of of the London Private Fire Brigades Association were made by Chief Officer Reid (Greenwich Royal Naval School), Capt. Carter, and others.

We all join heartily in wishing Sir John Knill a very happy and useful year of office, a$ was that of his illustrious predecessor, Sir Francis Truscott.

W. M. H.

Mr. S. Osborn, F. R. C.S., has been appointed General Inspector of Ambulance, London District, Boy Scouts.

PELTON FELL.- The Pelton Fell Colliery Company have decided to erect an ambulance house at each of the three collieries at Pelton Fell. The total cost will be about £1,000.

The Annual Distribution of Clothing to the poor in Clerkenwell by the NO.2 St. John's Gate Nursing Division will take place on December 20th, at 6 p.m. The division cordially invite members of the Metropolitan corps to witness the distribution.

AMBULANCE Officer's Uniform for Sale, cheap; tunic , chest, 36 in.; cap, size 7 ; cross belt and pouch; offers invited; all very little worn.-Apply, Secretary, 10, Field-lane, Batley, Yorks.

We are in no way responsible Jor the opinions expressed, or the statements made, by Correspondents.-EDITORS.

COMPRESSION OF THE BRAIN.

DEAR SIR,-I should be extremely grateful if you would settle, through your columns, a little dispute \ovh ic h has arisen here. The question at issue is one concerning the use of ice or cold water in a case of" Compression of the Brain," or in other words a piece of bone is compressing the brain, the injury ha vi ng been caused by direct violence, and we want your ruling on the following :Is t correct for an ambulance pupil to make use of ice or cold water dressing in the treatment of the said injury? If so, please state why; and if not, why not?

The last edition of the Official Text Book does not mention the use of ice or cold water dressings in the treatment of either compression of the brain, or apoplexy, whereas in tbe earlier editions the use of both is alluded to in the treatment of both apoplexy and compression, and I may also say that in competitions I have seen both cases treated with the supposed use of ice or cold water dressings applied to the head. The competition being supposed to be conducted in accordance with the treatment laid down in the last edition of the manual.

Now the question is: Would a competitor attf'nding either of the cases referred to in a competition be justified in applying ice or cold water dressings to the head, that is presuming the conditions are based upon the last edition ?

Trusting I am not presuming to take too much ad va ntage of your journal, and thankin g you.-I remain, yours faithfully,

FRED J. M URSIM.

Wooley Colliery, Barnsley.

[Your query has been submitted to a medical authority, who has given the following ruling :-" No, it is not wise to apply cold wa(er dressings to the head. They would have the effect of stopping any h ce morthage which may be present ( it is obviously what is intended by their use ) but they would very distinctly aggravate the condition of shock." Since it is not mentioned in the last edition of the Text Book, we are of opinion a competitor in a competition would not be justified in using the ice or cold water dressings.-ED. "F. A. "]

CRUSHED FOOT.

DEAR SIR,-In your columns recently, I asked for information as to the way advanced" First Aiders " who are readers of your valuable journal proposed to deal with the above injury, seeing that the treatment described in the Official Text Book issued by the S.J.A.A leaves one half of the injury exposed. In competitions, judges have to be reckoned with and they assume nothing, what are competitors to do? I am deeply anxious for help and advice.

With regard also to the treatment laid down for fractured spine, it to. me continual passing of bandages under a patient Il1Jured In thiS way must tend to aggravate his sufferings. In 1897 I found it was sufficiently painful to be lifted bn a rug.

Up to now, the information I asked for has not been forthcoming: it because a!ders growing selfish, or that the subject IS not suffiCiently interesting to your readers?

I am loth to believe that it is due to either cause but am inclined to think that the query has slipped the of your readers. I, therefore, venture to ask you to repeat it. Thanking- you in advance.- Yours truly,

J. J. A.

[With reference to the treatment of crushed foot, the

N ovem ber, 19 0 9. -FIRST

obvious method is not as figured in the Official Text Book, but to first apply a dressing to cover the whole foot, and then to place the in two well padded side-splints. Ref;arding the treatment of fra cture of the spine, readers are referred to "First Aid to the Injured and Sick," Warwick & Tunstall, p.p 14 1 -2. To keep continually disturbing- the patient, by passing bandages under him, as described in the Official Text Book of the Association is bad practice.-ED. "F. A.I)]

THE NATURE, AMOUNT, DIFFERENT FORMS OF MATERIAL.

AND TTSE OF TRANSPORT

D EA R SIR,-I have read with deep nterest the above article appearing in your issue of April last

You will readily understand why it should be so when you learn the fact that on this side of the world in Brisbane ( Queensland ) a city of 137,670 inhabitant s, we pride ourselves that in ambulance work we do not appear to be very far behind you, not only in the ende avours we are making but in our ability to cope with the work by promptly responding to the sick and injured, and thereby endeavouring to reduce their suffering to a minimum.

A I D.79

the Talbot Car, and on its arrival here a special body was built to meet our requirements. (The photo shows car outside the Parent Centre).

It s use is limited entirely to taking the bearers with the litter to the scene of the ac c ident or place of transport for which a sick or injured person is to be moved. The method of action is as follows: On the receipt of call at the centre, either by messenger, by telephone, or wire, the motor is immediately detailed for service, and within, as a rule, ro seconds after the receipt of the call it is despatched in answer thereto, with the litter, two bearers, and the car-driver, who is also a properly qualified man. On arrival at the scene of accident or place of transport the patient IS promptly attended to, and if required to be tr ansported the litter with the two bearers is left, the motor with the third man returning to the centre, where upon arrival a fresh litter is placed on board and the motor stationed ready for a future service.

In the meanwhile the pat ient is being transported to or hosp ital, as he or his friends may desire. And on the completion of their work, the bearers with litter return to the centre, and should they have been engaged with an infectious case or one of a doubtful nature, they are, before resuming duty, thoroughly disinfected in a proper room set apart for the purpose. Besides the kits belonging to the bearers then on duty the motor carries a further supply of all the usual (( first aid" accessories and two thermos quart flasks for both iced cold water or very hot water, in case either should be required -this is most valuable in a climate like ours, where in the winter months a supply of warm water would often prove of g rea t Llse to the bearers, by the means of the thermos flask it is immediately available, whilst on the other hand fh e ice d col d wa t e r r eadily proves its value during the summer months.

At the form a tion of what is now known as the Queensland Ambulance Transport, but was formerly the City Ambulance its work was confined to the City of Brisbane and its immediate suburbs, strenuous opposition was made to the transport of the sick and injured in any vehicle other than on the stretcher of an Ashford litter, and though time and again the idea of getting back to the ambulan ce wagon was mooted and dis c ussed, it never succeeded in gaining the confidence of the majority of the committee, who firmly believe that the stretcher and litter is much more humanitarian, and this opinion has been confirmed by medical men in different parts of the State. A 10-12 ILl'. Talbot Ca r conve rt ed in to an Am bu lance Wagun [or the Ambulance Transport Brigade. This vehicle is not int ended transporL the patient, but only to carry the litter to the scene of aCCident.

The statistical records show that at the Parent Centre the medical transports, i.e., those removed directly at the instigation of medical men, have grown in a period of IS years ( 1894-1908 ) from 151 'to 1,894. In fa ct so successful has this form of transport proved that the Ashford litter is the principal means of conveyance in no less than 10 town in our State where branches have been est ablished-all these branch centres, I should point out, are worked by a local Governing Committee, under the Exe.cutive Committee of the Institution, eac h branch centre haV i ng the right of representation upon the latter.

The working of the I nstitution by an Exe c utive Committee has enabled it to insist on uniformity of pattern and standard, with an interchangeability of stretcher from litter to litter throughout the State-the advantage of such a system needs no words of eulogy from the writer.

Latterly, the increasing of calls at. the Parent Centre (Brisbane), together With the average distances required to be travelled in answer to the calls, has c:: used a heavy and severe tax in the of h?rse flesh, and findlOg that we are using up our horses In a of about three years, the Committee decided upon the tnal of a motor for our work. A 10-16 h.p. chassis was ordered through the local agency of

We find no difficulty in negotiating the motor in amongst the street traffic, and where the hills are too steep to take the motor to the patient s

door or the actual scene of an accid ent, it is run to the nearest point of vantage, and the bearers reach the patient on foot. Since some of our branches are situated in mining towns such as Towers and Ravenswood-one of our branch superintendents has provided a special for who may come to grief whilst down one .of mmes; fadmg tbe attendance of a medical man the patient IS transported to the nearest hospital.

To i mprove the standard of effiCIency With regard to .th e qualification of our bearers, the Government has Just rece-ntly, at the request of our Executive, .unde.rtaken to glv.e a cours e of lectures in first aid and nursm g .10 the technl.cal co lleges throu ghou.t the ?tate, a .nd after to a certificate of ment, which cer tifi ca te w1l1111 all respects covel a h ig her standard and larger scope of usefulness than that provided by the cert ificate of the St. John Ambulance Asso ciatio n

Our finances are worked on a very for the GO\ ernment of the State endo\l's the pU.biIc by a grant of 25s. to 30s. for every £ sybscnbed by the pubiI;, and as we receive our grant on the baSIS of the. forme-r year s subscriptions, we are fairly well able to ascerta111 a t the com-

mencement of the year the amount which will be available for the current year.- I have the honour to be, Yours faithfully, EDGAR SLAUGHTER, Superintendent. Brisbane.

RED CROSS VOLUNTARY AID DETACHMENTS.

SIR, -I think yourself, and those of your readers who have written you, deploring the formation of the Red Cross Voluntary Aid Detachments, have been unnecessarily alarmed at the prospect of possiole injury to the St. John Ambulance Brigade. I am a member of the latter, and also an enthusiastic worker in connection with the formation of classes under the local centre of the Association, and I can see as a result of the new movement co-operating with the older organisation, the power of the latter for good will be largely extended.

In this district we shall work the two practically in conjunction, and as we shall be holding the reigns of power we shall see that the new movement does not edge out the older organisation. Our members \vill belong to both, and thereby avoid friction.

My advice to all brigade members is to take up the new movement and work it in conjunction with your own corps or division, by that means you will prevent any overlapping and possible friction between rival organisations. Personally, I do not see there is any cause for rivalry, although we are doing the same work. Let us do it in hal mony, bearing in mind it is for the common weaL-Yours faithfully, TRANSPORT SUPT.

CHURCH PARADES AND BRIGADE REGULATION.

DEAR SIR, - Will you kindly insert the following queries m the October issue of FIRST Am, together wi th the answers if possible, for the benefit of other Divisions of the S.J.A.B.

AID.- November, 1909.

have raised, and at the same time 1 would ask, are we, as men, doing a public duty, voluntarily and at our own, expense, to be tied down and prevented from helping one another, and subjected to the dictation of men who, although holding high rank; seldom do anything volu ntarily for first aid at all.-1 remain, Sir, yours ever

(( WILLING HELPING HAND."

"Nipped in the BUd."

As a protection against fire, it is, we think, now generally admitted that a reliable Chemical Extinguisher is undoubtedly one of the best means of coping with an outbreak in its initial stage. So thoroughly has this been recognised by the Chief Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, th'3.t he now insists on their provision on all public motor vehicles, in addition to which the Fire Brigade Service are regarding them with more favour, realising that as a g-enuine first aid appliance, ready to hand and easily understood, a good extinguisher promptly got to work may be the means of considerably lightening their subsequent labours.

To Our Readers.

As it is the wish and desire of the Proprietors to make this Joumal as instructive and entertaining as possible, correspondents in all parts of the country are asked to give it all the help they can.

Superintendents of Corps and Officers of Divi sions of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, Officers of the Royal Army Medical Corps (Territorials), the Volunteer Ambulance School of Instruction, and Chief Officers of Fire Brigades will, it is hoped, do their best to make it known amongst the members of their respective organisations, and will also send for publication their official news and notices. Suggestions are invited for Prize Competitions and other matters which will advance the interest of the Jouma).

We particularly desire to ask our correspondents to be brief and to the point in any communications they may send us for publication.

Correspondents sending in photos are urgently requested to state on the back of he same the name of the indi vidual or the Corps or Brigade and give also the name and address of the sender.

We beg to advise our read ers that we do not pay for photographs or copy sent, unless previously agreed upon in writing. " First Aid" is published on the 20th of the month.

much accentuated, and in spite of the numerous charitable organisations formed to cope with them, distress seems ever on the increase. That it will be more acute than ever this year seems probable, and one is gratified to learn that the graciom lady who this year presides over the social side at the Mansion House, has decided to make the poor of the great city her especial care, and has issued an appeal for funds to enable her to ameliorate the condition of those homeless waifs and strays, who are to be found nightly huddled together under railway arches, and in the more or less sheltered co rners of the Thames Embankment, seekmg to snatch some little sleep whereby they may temporarily forget the sufferings and privations they are enduring.

(

1. ) What is the meaning of a demonstration in its relationship to the Divisions of the S.J.A. B.?

(2 ) What are the rules governing Divisional Church Parades held in cOllnection with the S.J.A.B.?

(3·) Is it permissible for a Division to invite neirrhbouring Divisions to join them in a Church parade? I:>

As is well known to most of our readers, the main feature of these chemical extinguishers is practically the same, their action being that by generating carbon di-oxide gas, and thereby providing the motive power for ejecting the water, but the same agency plays a very important part in cutting off the supply of oxygen in the air from the fire, and leaving a salty deposit which ;prevents a fresh outbreak. At the same time the volume of water mixed with the gas becomes enormously increased, and incredible as it may appear an extinguisher of say, of I gallons capacity is as effective as about one hundred times that volume of plain water.

EDITORIAL.

(

4· ) Would the Senior Officer of the Division issuing the invitations be permitted to take the command of the parade?

The for asking the above questions is as follows ;-

A DIVISIon near Manchester having received the necessary permission from District Headquarters, at Preston, arranged to h.old a. early in September, and in conw.lth It to. take part were issued to the nelghbourmg. Dlv.ls.lO.ns. was thought to be quite in order, as thIS DIVISIon has, m response to similar invites att.ended the Church Parades of other Divisions-the bemg to help each other-and at the same time create a feeling amongst the members of the different DIVISIOns.

The. maj.ority of the invitations were accepted and the para?e bId faIr to be a great success both from a financial point of VIew, and also because it would have been the means of awak.ening lo cal in Division, which, I may inform you, a one makmg every effort to improve its financIal pOSItIOn, thereby increase its sphere of usefulness.

(\. days to the date fixed for th e parade, a commUnIcatIOn was receIved .from a certain Staff Officer, intimating that the parade on the Imes that we had laid down could not .be :=t"owed, intimating that we had no right to have InvIted ot.her DIVISIons attend it-such action being contrary to the BrIgade RegulatIOns.

Well, only a young Division, the members are not uI? m all the rules .re lating to these parades-if there be any m somewhat timid, notice was sent to the .nelghbourIng DIVISions cancelling the invitations, and requestmg them not to B:ttend. Having made all arrangements for the parade we deCIded to mrry it out, and we therefore asked the 1;Jranch of the Boys Brigade and others to attend, and .Jom m the procession to the Church.

Now, SIr, I should like through your columns to obtain the views of older members of the Brigade upon the questions 1

Whilst many Chemical Extinguishers are, however, limited in their use on one and the same fire, owing to the difficulty of recharging them, a description of the "Citex," manufactured in London by the" Citex" Fire Extinguisher Co., Ltd., of 46, Queen Victoria-street, RC., and working ?n an entirely new principle, will doubtless be of great mterest to those of our readers who are interested in the all-import.ant subject of the readiest and most reliable means of promptly extinguishing an outbreak of fire.

The" Citex" possesses the novel feature of entirely doing away with the necessity of having to make up a solution requiring much time and great care, and also eliminates the use of either fragile glass tubes or loose stoppered bottles containing the acid; at the same time it provides a chemical extinguishing fluid of great power.

Aids to Memory for "First Aid" Students.

By L. M. FRANK CHRISTIAN, M.B., C.M. EDIN.

Hunurary Assuciate u/ tlte Order u/ St. julm.

Hun. Llft Member UJ, and Examiner fur, the St. juhn Ambulance Assuciatiull.

" A concise and comprehensive

ONCE more we have arrived at that

The Season's season of the year which commemorates Greetings the proclamation of the message of to all "Peace on Earth, Good Will toward Our Readers. Men." It IS a long while since the Heavenly choir sang the glad tidings which heralded the Birth of the Prince of Peace, and as one looks around and sees the continuous growth of colossal armaments, one realises sadly that the dawn of international peace IS as yet a long way from fulfillment. Still there is much cause for thankfulness in the growing tendency on the part of the different nationalities to draw closer the bonds of friendship. In this direction our Beloved Sovereign King Edward VII. sets a splendic! example to his su bjects, for he never lets the opportunity slip of proclaiming to the world his sincere desire for the maintenance and extension of that unity for which he has proved himself so staunch an advocate.

There is always one sad note which is associated with the almost universal rejOIcing so prevalent at this season of the year. Owing to the severity of the weather the trials and sufferings of the poorer members of the con:munity are

We wish Lady Knill a very large measure of success in her grand and beneficent work. Our Gracious Queen, whose tender solicitude on behalf of the poor is always in evidence has expressed her sympathy with the movement, and the women, who at all times follow her gracious lead, will, we are sure, give a responsive echo to her wish.

Another commendable effort to relieve the prevailing distress by the provision of free meals for the hungry and deserving poor has again this year been inaugurated by the proprietors of the Daily Graphic, and it is within the province of our readers, even those residing in the country, to assist in some small measure the hungry and destitute poor of London by purchasing a copy of the paper daily, and forwarding the coupon to be found therein to the office of the Daily Graphic, the Editor of which will personally undertake to see that some poor foodless one shall receive a good hot meal in exchange for it. The outlay is not much, and the labour entailed in dispatching the coupons which can be posted every other day IS not great, so that we heartily commlimd its adoption to our readers, for surely the provision of a sustaining hot meal is one of the best means of rendering first aid to the hungry and exhausted. How the great master of English fiction-Charles Dickens -who always pleaded for the poor at Christmastide, would have welcomed such a philanthropic movement; would that his powerful pen were with us now, to urge its claims to the support and sympathy of the readers of his" Christmas Carol."

Coming nearer home, we are glad to see that the

Nursing Sisters of St. John are again engaged in the kindly office of clothing the destitute little ones who reside in the courts and alleys which surround the historic gateway of the Order of St. John. Surely the shades of the departed knights, who in their time were wont to dispense relief and succour to the hungry and necessitious, would be gratified to know that the work, which in their day gained for them the love and esteem of their poorer brethren, was still carried out by those who wear the emblem which recalls the Sermon on the Mount. At Blackpool, too, the Nursing Sisters are assisting the police, who, under the leadership of their large-hearted Chief Constable, are once more preparing to clothe and feed the destitute little ones who reside in that large Lancashire sea-side town.

In fact one might still further extend this list, to show that at this season of the year the spirit of charity and good will towards one's fellows is much more in evidence than it was in the days of which Charles Dickens wrote. That those who are engaged in these beneficent movements are amply repaid, by the knowledge that they have assisted in some measure, to bring a little brightness into the lives of those less fortunate than themselves, we can quite believe, but that fact none the less entitles them to the thanks of the community, for it is mainly due to the self-denying labours of these devoted men and women, and the efforts which they make to grapple with this social problem, that this England of ours is, unlike some continental countries, free from those scenes of strife and disorder which are often the accompaniments of acute distress.

In conclusion, we would appeal to all our readers to do what lies within the compass of their means, to assist in relieving the necessities of these poor and needy ones; the knowledge that they have lightened the heart of some poor suffering one will tend to · brighten their own, and assuredly assist them to enjoy

A HAPPIER CHRISTMAS AND A BRIGHTER NEW YEAR.

The cycle ambulance which was designed by the memb ers of the Settle Ambulance Division of the S J.A.B., and which we referred to in our last issue, was made according to their design, by Messrs. Alldays and Onions Pneumatic Engineering Co., Ltd., of Birmingham. '

A most interesting Catalogue is just to hand from Messrs. Siebe, Gorman & Co., Ltd. It is fully illustrated and give particulars of the various appliances manufactured by this enterprising firm, including smoke helmets rescue appliances, &c.. Should any of our readers deSIre to possess a copy, provided they are interested in such appliances, we would recommend them to write to Messrs. Siebe, Gorman & Co., 187, Westminster Bridge-road, London, S.E.

When corresponding with Advertisers please mention "First Aid."

First Aid in Railway Accidents.

A SERIOUS railway smash is always a most appalling accident, if we can picture and realise a scene somewhat as follows :-Coaches, some broken up into small fragments, some derailed, others over-riding or telescoped into each other, the engine on its side belching steam and smoke, the permanent way torn up for some distance, and amidst all the shrieks of the dying and the injured, we can easily understand why even the most intrepid and cool-headed " first aider" should lose his nerve for the moment, and consequently the power of doing his best for the injured.

It is a truism that accidEnts are non-preventable, and will happen on the best regulated railways. In view, therefore, of the possibility of such an accident happening, it is extremely important for those connected with railways, and especially those who take up the subject of first aid, to consider what means they can adopt to render immediate temporary assistance promptly and efficiently should it at any ti me be their misfortune to witness such a castastrophe as the one described above.

In dealing, therefore, with our subject, we will consider the following points, 'vi:; :-

[.-The injuries most likely to be met with, these would probably be:

(a) Fractures-especially of the head, jaw, spine, the long bones, ribs and pelvis.

(b) Wounds and

(c) Syncope.

(d) Shock.

(e) U nconsciousnc<;s from concussIOn or compression of the brain.

2.-The means that can be improvised (with the materials at hand) to render first aid, and to transport the from the scene of the accident. The material at hand would have to be utilised to the best advantage, as it is hardly conceivable that sufficient appliances to deal with all the injuries could be immediately procured.

(a) FRACTURES.

(i.) Fracture of tlzt head.-This may be of the vault or the base, the former is indicated by a wound probably on the head corresponding with a depression of the skull and signs of concussion of the brain, or partial or complete loss of consciousness, the latter is indicated by unconsciousness accompanied with bleeding from the ears, mouth and nose.

The treatment to be adopted in these cases will consist of:-

Decem ber, 1909. -FIRST in first-class carriages. This can be used to bandage the jaw.

.(!ii.) Fractlf.re of tlze spim.-This will be indicated by mabilltyon the part of the patient to move his lower limbs accompanied with symptoms of severe shock. The ment to be adopted here will consist of:-

(I) Counteracting shock by covering the patient up warm, for this we can ese similar materials as those indicated above.

(2) Removing the patient on a wooden stretcher for this we can again use one of the planks which form'the seats.

(3) Placing the patient in a warm room and treating the condition of shock, here we may adopt the same means as indicated above (see fracture of the head).

(iv.) Fractures of the long bones.-Thtse will be indicated by the usual signs of fracture. The materials required for their treatment will be :--

Splints, these may be constructed out of the boards which line the sides of the carriages. Padding for the splints, the stuffing out of the cushions can be used very easily for this. For bandages or slings to tie the splints, here we can rip up the curtains, th e covering of the cLlshions or use the leather slings (slit down) of the windows.

(v.) Fracture of tile ribs.-This will be indicated with inability to breathe more or less, accompanied with pain referred to the side and there may be (if the lung is injured) spitting of blood. The treatment to be adopted here is to put the side at rest by bandaging it with a broad bandage, and for this we can very easily use the cover off a long cushion. If the lung is injured care should be taken not to bandage too tightly.

(vi.) Fracture oft he pelvis.- This will be indicated by inability to stand, accompanied with symptoms of severe shock. The treatment to be adopted here will be :

(r) To place the man on a wooden stretcher, for this we can use the plank off a seat.

(2) To tie him to the stretcher, for this we can use the leather straps from the windows.

(3) To remove him to a warm room and treat shock, and here we can adopt the same means as indicated for fracture of the spine. (To be continued).

G. E.R.-O.n Saturday, October 30th, a competition 10 connectIOn WIth the Cambridge Division of this Railway Corps took place at the Beaconsfield Hall. Dr. Apthorpe Webb kindly officiated as judge. At the close of the comthe. prizes presented by Miss Spalding, and in dOIng so paid a complIment to Dr. Webb for the time and devotion he gave to the instruction of the men. Testimony to the same effect was also given by Alderman Stace and Mr. Kimm (Supt. of the Line ) The proceedings were preSIded over by Mr. A. C. Hutcherson (District Goods Manager) who, at the conclusion of the meetin a was accorded a very hearty vote of thanks. ,."

S.E. & c.R.-On the 23fd ult. the first annual concert of the Hither Green Corps was held at the Station Hotel, Hither Green, Mr. H. J. Bines presided. The room was packed, an d it is evident the Committee will have to provide a place with more accommodation for the next concert.

The Chairman, in alluding to the success which had attended the formation of the corps, congratulated the secretary, Mr. F. Gilham, and the Committee, and expressed the pleasure it gave him and his fellow officers to realise that this humanitarian work was being so enthusiastically taken up by the staff. Successful as the corps had been since its inception, he believed that the energy of its members would mean a largely increased number of'men joining in the near future.

Mr. Bines, during an interval in the concert, gave a condensed history of the Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem and its branches-an item which was much enjoyed by all present.

(

L) Counteracting shock by covering the patient up warm, here for covering we can utilise the curtains from the windows, the covers off the seats, a!!d the rugs from the floors of the carriages.

(2) Removing the patient in a recumbent position, with his head low, from the scene of the accident. For stretchers we can very easily utilise the planks which form the seats.

(3) Placing the patient in a darkened and warm room and applying hot water bottles to his feet, for the former we can use the waiting-rooms in the station or the tool sheds along the line (this, of course, depending entirely on the spot where the accident has happened) or, failing both, then the coaches that have been left standing can be used; for hot water bottles, the foot-warmers, refilled if necessary from the engine, can be very easily used.

(ii.) Fracture of tlze jaw.-This will be Indicated by the usual signs, and to treat it by keeping the broken ends in opposition, nothing can be better than one of the arm slings that hang on the side of every window

I pSWICH -O nce more it is our pleasure to speak in terms of the highest commendation of the work done by the Ipswich Centre as disclosed in the ve.ry comprehensive report issued by the indefatigable Hon. Secretary (Miss Cou1cher). The Report states that the year under review bas been one of steady progress. There has not been quite so much transport work as in previous years, but this is accounted for, and in no way intimates less need for this most practical form of ambulance provision. Attention is drawn to the honour conferred upon the Hon Secretary, and indirEctly upon the centre, by the presentation of the Service Medal to Miss Coulcher, and, surely, never was that distinction more worthily deserved, but we were sorry to note that in alluding to this the Report states, "Only one other Lady of Grace has this honour." The pbraseing implies a class distinction, which we believe the lady in question would be one of the first to disavow, if her attention had been called to it prior to its appearance in the Report. There are many ladies, ranking only as Honorary Serving Sisters, who have received the coveted distinction, and their rank in the Order does not in any way militate against their claim to_equality as far as the award of the Service Medal is concerned.

To inaugurate the commencement of the Classes in NO.5 District a smoking concert was held at the Devonshire Hotel, Bexhill, on Wednesday, November 24th. Dr. P. Duckworth Barker presided over a large attendance. Mr. Lawson Wood (the well-known Black and White Artist of Th e Sk etch); Mr. H. R. Dunn (the Superintendent of Bexhill Brigade), and a number of other influential gentlemen supported the chairman.

Dr. Duckworth Barker asked those present to furth er the ambulance work in the District to th e best of their ability and to attend the classes regularly. If they did this they would have the satisfaction of knowing that some day or other when called upon to render first aid they would do it satisfactorily. Many there that night had doubtless attended a course of lectures. But they must not think that they had learned all there was to learn in ambulance work. All of them were students ami students they would remain for all time.

Mr. Manser, the District Secretary, gave some interesting particulars relating to the growth of the centre, and appealed for support.

An excellent musical programme was carried out by Messrs. Stokes, Murray, Franks, Kingsley, Candler,

-FIRST

Howard, Charman and Beaney, all of whom gave their services. Altogether a very j o l!y evening was .spent. .

We are informed that the on thIs railway have been arranged as follows :-

Group 4. Thursday and Friday, March J oth and 11th. Chatham.

Beginners Group. Monday, March 14th. Tunhridge WeBs.

Group 3. Tuesday and Wednesday, March 15 th and 16th. Tunbridge Wells.

Group 2. Thursday, March 17th. Ramsgate.

Group I. Friday, 18th. Ramsgate.

Final. Wednesday, AprIl 13th. Crystal Palace.

The annual dinner will be held at the Crystal Palace on Wednesday, April 13th, and b e aring in mind the success of last year's event, when no less than 920 mem be;s and friends sat down, we have no doubt that there wlll again be a record attendance.

Reviews.

G UESSES AT TRUTH.

Ethi cal, So ci al , Pol iti cal and Lite rar y.

By David Christie Murray London : Chas.

] Sawyer, Ltd., 23 , New Oxford W. e. P

rice 2S. 9d p os t f r ee

THIS book we are told g rew out of a series of articles which appeared in Th e Refe r ee, under the pseudonym of ,. Merlin, " during the last seven or eight years of the life of the author. They were recognised at the time as brilliant work, and the forceful orig inality of the writer was admitted, even my many who did not agree with h is views. It was first published in 1908 by Hurst and Blackett, and for some unknown reason was thrown upon the "remainder " market, and the stock was purchased by Messrs. Chas. ]. Sawyer, Ltd., who now offer the work at the above low price. The book is a storehouse of wisdom, and it read ily proves the versatil ity of the author over a great range of subjects. For convenience they have been arranged under the headings"Ethical," "Social," "Political," and" Literary. " The article on " Our starving workers and the causes of distress " is particularly worthy of not ic e, as the lu cidity in which the causes of this burning problem are put forth, and the remedies advocated, are complete evidence of a thoughtful mind.

AIR AND HEALTH.

By Ronald e. Ma cfie, M.A., M.B. London Methuen and Co., Es sex St reet, Strand, W.e. Price 7s 6d ne t.

THIS book deals with the chemi cal and physical properties of air in its relation to health and disease. Climate is also carefully considered, and questions relating to such important as dust,. fog, germs, air-borne epidemics, et c., are lUCIdly dealt With. To all of those who are interested in those all-important subje c ts hygiene and sanitation-this book should prove very welcome.

The subject thoroughly, and deals wlt.h It, In. a manner whIch IS not only instructive but IS Intensely Interestmg. The ch a pters on Ventilation and the Open Air Treatment of Consumption are espe c ially so. especially recommend this book to those having the tralnmg and care of the young, and medical men and others in departments will find much in it to assist them In dealIng With some of the problems upon which

A 10.·- December, 1909.

they are constantly called upon to advise their governing bodies.

"Air and Health " should find a place in the bookcase of every Medical Officer of Health.

HOW TO BECOME A NURSE.

Edited by S ir Henry Burdett, Ke.n., K.e.V O. New Edition.

London: The Scientific Press, Ltd., 28 and 29 Southampton Street, Strand, W.C.

P r ice 2S

THE nursing profession has no stauncher advocate than the editor of this manual. Sir Henry has for many years past made an earnest study of all that appertains to the nursing profession, and its members are indebted to him for many reforms which have all tended to raise the status of the nurse. We cons ider" How to become a Nurse " is a most valuable book of referen ce, as a careful perusal of its pages will materially assist those who are desirous of adopting the nursing profession in de c iding upon an institution in which to commence their career. There is no doubt that in the pa s t many a novice has, owing to the want of proper information being available, commenced her tr a in ing in a non-recognised institution, only to find later on, when she applied for a hi g her post, that the certificate she held was not worth the paper it was printed on.

The c lassification of the var ous hospitals and institutions is excellent, and the details as to staffing and the qualifications necessary to secure appointments are all clearly set out. We are, however, especially pleased with the introductory chapter, which counsels the intending nurse how to commence her stud ies and prepare at home for the nursing profession. r t is full of sound common sense, and the yo ung woman who is seriously thinkin g of taking up the profession of a nurse should obtain the book and stud y up the subje c ts which it recommends.

BOOTLE. - The members of this Nursing Division held their fourth annual social and dance in the Reform Club, Stanley-road, on Thursday, Nov. 18th, when about 200 guests assembled. Unfortun a tely, owing to a sudden family bereav e m e nt, th e Mayor and Mayor e ss wtre unable to be present. Dur i ng the interval Chi e f Supt. J. C. Eliison spoke in terms of warm commend a tion of the advance which the Division had made during the past twelve months, and express e d the pleasure which it g a \'e him to find the nursing sist e rs so enthusiastic in their work and so loyal to their Lady Supt.

An exceptionally fine programme of musical items had been arranged and was much appreciated. This occupied about one and a half hours, after which light refreshments were served, and then dancing was indulged in until 2 a. m., when the proceedings closed one and all agreeing that the close had come all too soon, the unanimous opinion being that this was one of the most successful socials that the Division had yet held.

In the November issue of FIRST AID we re gret there appeared two unfortunate errors, which have attracted the attention of several of our readers. On page 69, in the account of the "Colman" Competition, Question 4, it says, "If not sen sz'ble give milk," etc. This, of course, should be, " If not ins en sible, give milk," etc. On page 74, in the report of the S.E. & c.R., the date of the formation of the centre is given as 1903; this should be T 905.

-FIRST

The "Draeger" Automatic Pulmotor for Artificial Respiration.

OUR readers will doubtless rememb e r that in our February number we referred briefly to the "Pulmotor" which is here illustrated. Now that the question of rescue work in mines is engaging the attention of all concerned in colliery

AI D.- 85

" L" from the pOSItIOn shown in Fig. to that of Fig. 2. In this position of the valve the current produced by "S" draws the air out from the lungs, discharging It IOtO the open air. The lungs being emptied, the bellows c ollapse and return the reversing valve into p osition for re -inflation, and this cycle of operations is repeated autom.atically. The rhythm of the apparatus, it should be mentIOned, dep e nds on the capacity of the lungs. and adjusts itself thereto quite automatically.

FI G I.

enterprise, it has occurred to U3 that a more detailed description of this important addition to rescue gear would be of interest to a large number of our readers.

The" Pulmotor " consists essentially of a pair of concertina bellows, ., B " alternately drawn out and collapsed by the pressure of the flow of oxy g en Rnd air, thereby putting into operation a reversing valv e which is described below. The oxygen, which is supplied from the oxygen cylinder" C," contains a supply fo r 40 minutes working.

The nose mask" N" is held in posltlOn by the bow " M" (Fig. 3), the button " K" oeing pressed down until the mask fits tightly a gainst the nose, where it is retained automatically. The mask is connected to the "Pulmotor" by two flexible pipes, of which" E" serves for inflating the lungs with fresh a r, while the other, "A," conveys the vitiated air for discharge through the apparatus.

As our read e rs well know, in order that artifi c ial By turning the valve " V )) the oxygen passes through the reducing ,valve ., D " to the suction no zzle "S," which at the same time draws in a suitable volume of air. This no zzle supplies the power for inflating and deflating the lungs, the former under a pressure of 8 in. water gauge, and the latter under a suction of 4! inches. When the lungs have been filled with air, the pressure acts on the bellows and inflates them, thereby drawing the reversing valve in the chamber

FI G 3·

respiration may be thoroughly effective it is absolutely necessary that the air passages to the lungs should be quite free, the chief point, therefore to be observed in using the "Pulmotor" is the manipUlation of the tongue of the patient, which should be drawn out and held tightly by means of a strong, dry cloth, or, if necessary, by the tongs, which are provided for that purpose, in order to keep the windpipe open and allow the air supply free access to the

FI G 2.

lun gs, the mouth being kept closed in an air-tight manner. Owing to the fact that the" Pulmotor," as we have already pointed out, acts automatically, the operator is able to give his whole attention to this important point.

We consider this is a most valuable addition to the life-saving plant of any rescue station indeed, we hope that its llse may become genera l in any industry, where there is a risk of loss of life from the possible inhalation of poisonous gases .

The British representative is Mr. Richard Jacobson, of 70, Shoe-lane, E.c., who will be pleased to give any further particulars, or should any of our readers desire to witness the working of the apparatus they may do so by calling at the above address

YSTRAD RHONDDA.- The members of the ambulance division and the ladies connected with the nursing class held their annual supper at the Bodringallt Schools on Saturday evening, Nov. 6th. At the close of the supper, certificates and medallions were presented to successful pupils at the recent examinations.

In the cour.se of his opening remarks, Mr. Edgar Hall, M.E., who preSIded, referred to the value of the service rend.ered by men in the colliery districts, and 111 concludlOg emphasIsed the necessity for a hospital in the district,. and present to support any haVing for ltS aIm the provision of such an lI1stItu tlOn.

Th.e Rev. T. D. Jones, BodringalIt, then presented the certJilcates and medallions, and Supt. J. Jones M.E. on of the division, presented Hon. E. L: Phllhps with a valuable collection of books.

On. behalf of the ladies of the nursing class, Miss M. A. Hames presented the worthy doctor with a silver soup tureen and ladle.

In ack?owledging the gifts, Hon Surgeon Phillips expressed hIS thanks to all of those present for their kind and handsome presents. Then followed a presentation to and popular hon. secretary (Mr. H. Williams). rhe glft, whIch took the form of a gold pendant, bearing the badge. or the St. John Ambulance Brigade, was handed to the by Sergt. B. Hammond. After a few appreclatlve remarks on the services which Mr. Williams had rendered. to ?!s locality, Supt. Hammond remarked that no worthler c ltlzen resided in their district.

Ir: acknowledging the gift, Mr. Williams said he should at all tImes be only too pleased to do what he could to forward the ambulance cause.

A similar gift was handed to Corporal Edmunds (hon. t.reasurer) by Mr. J. H. Caple (drill instructor) and was sUltably acknowledged by the recipient.

An. int.eresting on the progress of the brigade 111 the dlstnct was gIven by Supt. Secretary T. O. Osmond R?ondda Fawr Corps, and the hon. secretary gave a talled. account of ambulance work in Ystrad durin the past slxteen years. g

A most enjoyable musical programme grea tly contributed to the success of th e evening.

of regret for non-attendance was read from Dlst:lct Supt. Stores T. E. Richards, Chief Supt. Tom DaVIes, Councillor Thomas Thomas, J.P., and others.

Dr n. W. Spaight, of Porth lev en, has been appointed an examIner of the St. John Am bulance Association.

A New Patent Tricycle Ambulance.

RAPID transport of patients suffering from accident or sudden illneSS is now regarded by those engaged in ambulance work as being most essential, not only in the interests of the suffering, but in order that the am bulance staff may be released as speedily as possible in case of their sfrvices being again requisitioned for the carriage of some olher unfortunate one, a not uncommon occurrence in these days of rush and pressure.

This point has been so often emphasised by prominent authorities that ambulance experts in all parts of the country have applied their skill to try and solve the problem. To a certain extent the adaptation of the motor for ambulance transport, has proved a ,sat isfactory solution of

December, 1909. -FIRST

medical requisites not been lost sight of, and ample space has been proVIded for these under the machine. For of the stretcher by hand, when necessary, it IS fitted shoulder slings and leather rings. The h.andle-l;>ar to the stretcher, all possibility of SIde swmg IS aVOlded, and the position of the stretcher and patient are always under the immediate control of the rider; the steering action being fixed also at the lowest possible. point to the ground, obviates any possibility of overturmng. The brown canvas waterproof stretcher cover is fitted with an observation flap at the head end the patient being thus always under the eye of the attendant, and cover thus g,ives ample ventilation, while securing the patIent all the privacy of a closed am bulance carriage

Another great advantage possessed by this ambulance is that it can be placed in charge of a single individual,

Al D.No. 37 DIVISION G.W.R.-The fourth annual dinner of the Division was held at the Prince of Wales Hotel Paddington, on Saturday, December 4th, CouncilJor H: Lidiard presided, supported by anum ber of officers of the No. District, and other gentlemen interested in the movement.

FOLK STO TE.- With every sign of genuine and sympathetic sorrow the members of this division, on November 17th, followed to their last resting place the mortal remains of their comrade Pte. W. B. Huntley, whose death took place on the previous Friday after a protracted illness. The sad cortege left of the deceased at I.30 p.m .; the members of the dIVISion, who followed in uniform, were

the difficulty, but owing to its large initial cost a nd the expense in its upkeep, only the larger can thIS method j the electric Motcr Ambulance also essentIally a vehicle for city and town use excluconsequently other methods have to be resorted to order to meet the requirements of the smaller municipahtles, the result bEing that we have had placed upon market several designs of tricycle and cycle am bulance litters.

Among the most recent vehicles of this description is one manufactured by .the well -kno wn firm of Messrs. Carter, of 2-6, New London, which embraces several new a.nd .lmportant features, amongst which a most pomt lS the construction of the sprin g suspension whIch allows the str.e tcher to be instantly detached. It fitted w:th rubber loops for placing under the armp!ts, and canvas body b.ands in order that the patient may ;f necessary. be placed 111 a vertical position. fhe necesslty for providing first aid accessories and

CARTER'S NEW PATENT

and actual experience has proved that in many cases the tricycle ambulance is the first to arrive at the scene of the accident. Again, with the patient in position, the attendant can regulate the speed of his journey to hospital or other destination, to suit the exigencies of the case. Owing to the elastic Cee-spring suspension with which this tricycle ambulance is fitted, and its ball-bearings, immunity from all jar and vibration is ensured to the patient, and the smoothest running secured.

In localities where only a limited ambulance service is available, this vehicle should prove indispensable, its low cost of upkeep, and the small space required for its storage, are strong points in its favour, added to which it is always ready for instant service its sphere of usefulness therefore cannot be overestimated.

TRICYCLE Al\JBULANCE.

under the command of Supt. F. A. Adams, and six of their number acted as bearers.

REDRUTH. - The particulars of the competition for the Cornwall Ambulance Trophy are to hand. It is to hold the competition here in March next. FIve dIVIsions have already intimated their intention to enter teams, and Dr. Webber has consented to act as judge. The Hon. Secretary to the Competition is Dr. H. 'y. Spaight, Portleven, who will gladly furnish further particulars as to the conditions, etc.

WHEN CORRESPONDING WITH ADVER · T PLEASE MENTION "FIRST AID ."

STRETCHER REMOVED FROl\I CARTER'S TRICYCLE Al\rnuLANCE AND PATIENT CARRIED VERTICALLY UP A NARROW WINDING STAIRCASE.

-FIRST Brevities.

WE are nearly at the close of another year, and the question of an efficient Ambulance Service for London is as yet an unsolved problem. We do hope that whichever party is returned to power in the Parliament which is to be elected early in the New Year, that they will regard this question as urgent, as it undoubtedly is, and make it one of the first reforms to be dealt with. It is high time that the present serious condition of affairs was remedied, and the reproach as to London's inadequate Am bulance Service removed.

* * *

WE continue to receive a large amount of correspondence relating to the want of consideration shown to the St. John Ambulance Brigade in connection with the formation of the proposed Voluntary Aid Detachments, and we have also received a communication, which we are requested to regard as private, intimating that negotiations are pending which will effectively safeguard the positlOn of the Brigade units, and ensure that they shall receive that consideration to which their past services so justly entitles them. We can only say that we trust it may be so, but we wish that those in authority had taken advantage of our columns and had issued an authoritative declaration on the matter. It would materially have helped them, inasmuch as it would have set at rest this present state of uncertainty, which we feel certain is detrimental to the interests of both o:-ganisations.

* * *

Our action in the matter is entirely above SUSpICIon. taking up the line we have, as stated by us last month, we have been actuated solely by the desire to ensure a proper regard being paid to the claims of units of the St. John's Am bulance Brigade to preferential treatment under the new scheme. In this connection we think we are entitled to look for the approval of the Executive of the Brigade, and we honestly believe that the British Red Cross Committee recognising our loyalty in the matter will readily aquit us of any hostile feeling against their own organisation. Our desire is the same as their own, they desire to see the British Red Cross SEcond to none. So do we.

* * *

IT is only on the question of the personnel that we take exception to their methGds, believing as we do that the better plan would have been to first organise the units of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, which were available for service, into a s.pecial. reserve, or first line, and assisting members to attam a hIgher state of proficiency. Should It then found necessary to proceed further with a larger reserve It would then be time enough to deal with these proposed yoluntary Reserves, although we candidly confess we should prefer to see any such proposed extension the form of strengthening the St. John Ambulance Brigade, by the formation of new units in localities not now represented.

AID. - December, 1909.

THE administrative officers controlling the Brigade have proved in the past, not only in civil life, but during the stress and strain of war, that they are fully competent to cope with any call that may be made upon their resources, and therefore they have every right to their contention, that they should receive special consideration in any scheme which the authorities may carry out for the purposes of National defence.

The London Postal Ambulance Shield.

FULLY 500 persons were present at the seventh annual competition for the above shield, which took place on Wednesday, December 1st, at the Mount Pleasant Sorting Offi ce. Many prominent officials of the Post Service were present and an unusually large number of ladies graced the proceedings.

By the kindness of the Assistant Contractor and the energy of officers of the Post-office Ambulance Corps, every pOSSIble arrangement was made for the cumfort of visitors, and the huge floor space on which the scenery was staged, was surrounded by seats so arranged that all present enjoyed a good view of the contest.

The competitors on previous occasions have been upon. to first aid at quarry explosions, bridge dIsasters, mme explOSIOns, floods, shipwrecks and collisions.

This year the scene depicted was a portion of a huntwith a rider in full scarlet jacket and top-boots lymg mJure? at bottom of a steep, dry ditch, over the fence of whIch hIS horse had pitched him. He had sustained compound fracture of the collar-bone, broken ribs, a sprained ankle, and various bruises and abrasions. To treat this case was the task set each team-who previous to entering the field, knew nothing of the nature of the test-to attend to his injuries, remove him from his unco:nfortable position, and convey him tenderly to the hospital. No first aId apparatus was provided, each team of four men h.aving t? use such articles as they had upon them, and to ImprovIse a stretcher from fencing, branches of trees and clothing.

It proved a very effective test of their powers of observation, readiness of resource, and knowledge of the methods expected under such circumstances in real life. The winners proved to be the team from the North-West District Office, leader, Mr. R. W. Stone j but the general excellence of. all the ten teams was freely commented on, and the PreSIdent of the P.O.A.C., John Sinclair, Esq., M.D.,lV1.R:C.P., London, who acted in conjunction with Drs. HeWitt and Bashford, of the Medical Department G.P.O., as judges, expressed himself as pleased with the work of the members.

The Corps was formed in 19 02 WIth the object of asslstmg Postal officials to become cerin first aid and for the purpose of creating a traI?ed bod.y of men useful in emergencies of sudden aCCIdent or Illness. Courses of lectures are given annually and branches are being formed in all parts of the London Postal Service. - T. C. C.

December, 1909. -FIRST Our Portrait Gallery.

LIEUT.-COLONEL. C. S. DENNISS, GENERAL MANAGER, CAMBRIAN RAILWAYS.

THE General Manager of the Cambrian Railways has long been keenly interested in the ambulance work. His first connection with the movement was when he underwent

Al

D.-

appreciated, and which has assisted in no small measure to maintain the interest in the movement.

In January, 1907, Colonel Denniss received his Commission as a Lieut.-Colonel in the Engineers and Railway Staff Corps, and in September last he received the Vellum Vote of Thanks awarded by the Grand Priory of the Order of St. John for services rendered in furtnerance of the work of the Order in connection with its Am bulance Department.

Colonel Dennis is deservedly popular amongst all grades on the railway over which he so ably presides; they recognise his absolute fairness, and appreciate the interest which he takes in every good movement which has as its aim their mutual benefit. In wishing Colonel Denniss a long and successful career in connection with the Cambrian Railways, we would desire to incorporate with it our best wishes for the continued prosperity of its ambulance centre.

The London Private Fire Brigades' Association.

ELEVB:NTH ANNUAL COMPETITION.

Owing to the great pressure on Our space this month, we are reluctantly compelled to omit several items which we have received from correspondents. We trust they will accept this our expression of regret.

instructIOn in first aid, under Surgeon-Colonel Cureton, at Shrewsbury, and it was here he received his first certificate.

On his appointment to the post of General Manager of the Cambrian Railways, Colonel Denniss started a large class at Oswestry, and it WaS mainly through his efforts that the Cambrian Railways Centre was formed in 1895, added to which he was mainly responsible for the presentation of the handsome Silver Challenge Shield-the gift of Mrs. Denniss and Mrs. Parry Jones-which is competed for annually by teams from classes held in connection with the Cambrian Railways Centre,

As showing how keen is the interest taken by the employes in ambulance instruction, since the formation of the centre, 1,025 members of the staff have obtained first aid certificates, 237 have qualified and rf'ceived the second certificate, and 16 I have been awarded medallions and 93 have obtained lal]els.

As a gratifying proof of the interest taken by Directors of the Railway in the Annual CompetItIOn, It may be mentioned that several of them, including the Earl of Pow is, David Davies, Esq., M.P., the late A. C. Humphreys-Owen, Esq., and J. Marshall Dugdale, Esq., have upon more than one occasion entertained those competing and the other members of the am bulance classes in their grounds, a privilege which has always been much

By the courtesy of Lord Bingham, the commanding officer of the London Rifle Brigade, the Association held its lIth Annual Competition on November 27th at the headquarters of the London Rifle Brigade, Bunhill-row, when some 300 volunteer firemen represen.ting about. 30 brigades, were present, to compete fOL' the various trophies. An exciting incident marked a "house on fire" display, given at the conclusion. of the program.me. The members of the" Clarnico " Brigade were effectmg rescues from the burning building with the aid of their " porn pier "ladders. One of the firemen, W. Lovett, by some means caught his swivel in the ladder on the building, and when the time came for the firemen to. he found himself held fast. For a moment the sltuatlOn looked serious, the flames having assumed larger than was anticipated, but .with the aid of che,mlcal extIDguishers they were .kept .ID check, and Lovett s comrades succeeded in effectIDg hIS release. He was taken to St. Bartholomew's Hospital and found to be severely burnt; we are glad to report, however, that he contlDues to make satisfactory progress towards recovery. .

Owing to the absence of Surgeon-MaJo: Coffin, F. R.c. P., consequent on the illness of hIS wife, the AmbUlance Competition had to be postponed. .

The attendance ()f firemen, and the general publIc alike both at the afternoon and the evening's display was very' good, and the "Clarnico" Brigade rendering good service with their excellent band.

Lieut.-Col. Fox was unable to be present, however the London Salvage Corps was ably represented by Supt. Allinson.

Under the supervision of Capt. HoratIO MIller, assisted by Chief Officers W. J . H. H. Spears, Capt. Horn, and others, includmg the the very satisfactory arrangements for the day, which had made by the hon. secretary, Mr. Chandler, the dnlls were efficiently carried out.

The results were :-

One klan Hydrant Dr£ll (12 competitors ) Forrest, of W. H. and S. Brigade Beech, of Royal Small Bngade Monk, of English and ScottIsh Wholesale Bngade 3 2

-FIRST

Two AIm E./ydrallt Drill (2 0 cOlllpetitors)

The Royal Small Arms Brigade

The Robertson Electric Lamps Brigade 2

The Hotel Cecil Brigade 3

Fi'Zle .lIen Hydrant Drill -dry (£6 G·olllpetilors)

The Royal Small Arms Brigade

The Debenham and Co. Brigade 2

The Crosse and Blackwell Brigade 3

Five M en Hydrant Drzll ( EO (·olllpctito rs )

The Robertson Electric Lamps Brigade

The English and Scott ish Wholesale Brigade 2

The Royal Small Arms Brigade 3

Scalz'17,[{ Ladder Drill.

The Railway Clearing House Brigade

The Robertson Electric Lamps Brigade 2

JfCZlluaZ Dn'l!.

The Ley ton Bri g ade

The Royal Small Arms Brigade 2

Veterans Drill (age ove r 50).

Boyce I Collings 2

Tltr ee ilJen Hydrant Drill -7. ue t.

The Fairbrothers Brigade

The English and Sco tti sh Wholesale Brigade 2

The Crosse and Bla ckwell Brigade 3

Four lfen Hydrallt Drill.

The Robertson Electric Lamps Brigade

The W. H. and S. Rogers Brigade

The English and Scottish Wholesale Brigade

Tlte " lVestle)} Cup.

The Robertson Electric Lamps Brigade.

Tlt e "Alarsltall') CltaZlmg e Cup

The H.obertson Electric Lamps Br ig ade.

Til e" Ceelo ll/{" Cltallellge Sltield.

The W. H. and S. Rogers Brigade.

Tile "Hitcll cock" Cltallmge Sit ie/d.

The Macclale Brigade ( McCorquodale and Co. )

These s uccessful drills, many executed in very smart time, will doubtless have had a good effect on the competition for the City Silver Shield, held in the Guildhall on the 18th inst., an account of which in due time we shall record in our columns.-W. M. H.

Newark Ambulance Wagon.

MESS RS GEORGE STEPHENSON & SONS, of Trent Bridge Works, Newark-on-Trent, have just supplied the borough of Newark-on-Trent with an up-to-date ambulance wagon, which is here illustrated.

The wagon, which is intended for both accidental aT'd infectious cases, has been specially constructed with this end in view. The greatest possi ble care has been taken with the inside in order to facilitate disinfection, the whole having been lined with zinc, and enamelled with hard white enamel all corners being rounded as an additional precaution. It is fitted with a teltscopic handled stretcher, and the wagon is constructed to allow of this being run in under the driver's seat, the other half being utiliSed as a cupboard for first aid dressings and other necessaries. A seat, which can be put in two positions, has also been proand there is also a speaking tube, by means of which the attendant can communicate with the driver. One half of each window is made to open inwards, and the vehicle is fitted with three ventilators, which can be opened or closed at wil A circular-faced cab lamp is fitted inside

AI D.- December, 1909.

the vehicle, while outside there is a pair, which, like all other fittings, are silver plated. The running of the vehicle is extremely easy, the wheels being fitted with Clincher pattern rubber tyres. The workmanship and material throughout are of the

December, 1909. -FIRST

year having been elected, Supt. Healey proposed that the two sections have a com bined drill in uniform once a month, alternatel y at headquarters of each section. This, he thought, would be of great benefit to the members. He thanked all ranks for the loyal support they had accorded him during the past year, and for the way in which they had done their work at the recent competition in London. He also took the opportunity of thanking Mr. A. C. Norman for the use of his meadow for the company (irills in the summer months.

In presenting Ptes. B:l.rnard and Horlock with wedding gifts subscribed for by the members, the chairman addressed a few kindly words to each recipient. His Worship the Mayor then addressed the meeting. He congratulated Supt. Healey on his appointment, and said he was pleased to meet him there that evening. In congratulating the mem bers on their smart appearance, his Worship paid a special mede of praise to Hon. Surgeon Volland for the time he had devoted to training them. H e expressed his gratification at learning that the y were always ready to undertake the renloval of patients

No. 19 DIVI SION (SOUTH METROPOLITAN GA S

WORKS).

-An interesting and keenly contested competition was held at the Headquarters of the Division, the Livesey Institute, on November 4th. Hon. Surgeon J. Maclean Carvell officiated as judge, and there was a large and appreciative audience o f spectators.

Tht teams, to th e number of six, assem bled in one of the reception rooms, at 4 o'clock precisely. They appeared before the judge in rotation. The tests set far each team being identical. The following is a list of the questions :_

(

1. ) Name the poisons in which you would give no emeti c

(

2. ) How many kinds of slings do you know? Name them

(3·) State treatment for swollen tissues of the throat.

(4· ) Name and point out all pressure points and arteries. The following were the tests in bandaging:-

(

r. ) Treat depressed fracture of the skull.

(2 .) Treat fracture of the right cla\' icle. .

(3·) Treat fra cture of right ribs, and fra cture of lower jaw.

(4· ) Treat fracture of the left scapula.

At the conclusion of this portion of the programme,

INTERIOR Vmw.

very best, amI the wagon presents a yery smart appearance, being painted green, the frame picked out with black, and the whole lined with red. On the sides it bears the Red Cross, and the wording Borough of Newark.

THE HORSE Al\IBULANCE SUPPLIED TO THE BOROUGH OF NEWARK. long distances if required. His Worship concluded by saying that he considered that every man and woman should have a knowledge of first aid work, in order to be able to relieve the sufferings of their fellows should they ever be called upon to do so. He wished the Brigade "God Speed JJ and much success in its good work.

the stewards and competitors, accompanied by th: judge, adjourned to partake of a most appetising tea, .whl.ch had been thoughtfully provided and to which ample JustIce was done.

No. District (Metropolitan Corps.)

BROMLEY.-The 14th annual meeting of this division was held at the Central Hall on Thursday, Nov. 4th., the Mayor (Alderman McIntyre) presiding, supported by the officers of the Division and several local gentlemen interested in the movement.

The minutes of the last annual meeting having been read, the report and balance sheet were read and adopted. The report contained evidence of the splendid services rendered to the district by the mem bers of the Brigade, and complimentary reference was made to this by the several speakers who addressed the meeting.

The committee and executive officers for the ens uing

Councillor Williams, in proposmg a vote of. to Hon. Surgeon Volland and Mathews.on for. theIr serVlCes during the past year, referred to the tIme. whIch. both these gentlemen devoted to the of the Bngade, order to bring its members up to the hIghest state of effiCIency. .

Hon. Surgeon Volland, in responding to the vote, saId he had always found the men so ready to do their duty that it waS a pleasure to do what he. could to. help them. Sometimes he had to call them up In the mIddle of the ni ght to remove a patient, but they had never failed him. He would also like to rrake it known that Railway Companies were always ready. to give facility to to the comfort of their patients when removIng them by rali. .

Votes of thanks to tlle Secretaries of the two sections brought the proceedings to a close.

At 7.30 the main doors of the building was to admit of a large number of the Company's employes and other friends, and it was soon evident that a most evening would be spent, as a larg.e number of the audIence were evidently ambulance

Mr. Daig Gibb, who preSIded, was supported by several of the principal officialg of the Company.

Punctually at 7.3 5 the first team entered the spacIOus hall and were received with a round of After receiving a supply of improvised material - whIch , by th.e way, was purposely scarce-the y were introduced.to theIr patient who had the well·known label attached to hIS clothing, and at a given signal from the judge they got to work, and the second part of the programme commenced. TEST FOR TEAl\I.

Treat compo uncl fra c ture of the ri g ht leg of the left shoulder. Remove on extemponse d stletchel.

-FIRST

Although the material supplied each te am exactly the same, only two stretchers were al ike n and h ints were plCked up showi ng what might be done ID emergency.

The six teams having finished their task, an d the judge having retireJ to make up his. p.o!nts, a smart display was given by a detachment of the dlvlslOn under th e command of 1st Officer Butcher, a the conclusion of which th e result of the competition was announced by Mr. Doig Gibb.:-

1st, Mr. F. Foddering's t eam 139 points 2nd, Mr. C. Fro ud 's team, 134t; 3rd, Mr. H. Manley's team, 4th, Mr. P. Wicken's team, 16t; 5th, Mr. G. Bi.ng's team, I 6th, Mr. H. Cloe's team, 15. The maximum was 150 points.

The individual prizes were awarded as follows :-For questions" Mr. C. Busby, 19; for bandaging, Mr. G. Frost, 16. The maximum in each case was 20.

At the conclusion of the presentation several of the officials addressed the company, and many encouraging remarks were addressed to the men on the excellence of their work. In the C0urse of his speech, Mr. Doig Gibb said, that when a young man he had sought fame on the football field and at cricket, but from what he had seen that night he had come to the conclusion that there was a more valuable pastime in which to employ one's leisure, and he could conceive of no higher or more noble work than ambulance work, since it was not for what one gained, but for what one could learn to do in order that one might be competent to relieve the sufferings of some poor fellow creatme.

Mr. Cooley (foreman of the Engineering Department) spoke at considerable length on the invaluable services rendered by first aid men, and emphasised his desire to always be hand in hand with the men and with the cause in the future as he had been in the past.

This brought to a close a most enjoyable evening.

No. 6 District.

NEWCASTLE-ON-TvNE.- The annual conference of the district staff officers and corps and divisional officers took place on Saturday, November 20th, at the Crown Hotel. The Assistant Commissioner (Lieut. C. B. Palmer) presided, ano. he was supported by a large and representative gathering of the officers of the district, including, amongst others, District Chief Surgeon Robertson Grease, District Supt. Johnson, District Supt. Secretary J- O. Vaughan, Hon. Surgeons Anderson (Gateshead), .Miller (Felling), etc.

The meeting was a private one, but we are indebted to the courtesy of the Assistant Commissioner for a brief resume of what transpired.

(I) District Camp. It was decided to hold a District Camp for ten days, subject to the approval of the Chief Commissioner, and providing a sufficient number of names were given in to ensure the success of the meeting. The date will be about August Bank Holiday.

(2.) Voluntary Aid Detachments.-The Assistant Commissioner urged Officers in command of Divisions to arrange Home Nursing Classes as soon as possi ble with a view to mem bers of the Brigade being qualified to join Voluntary Aid Detachments.

(3·) District Competitions.-It was decided that the arrangements for the District Competitions which are to be held in Newcastle next year should be left in the hands of the same committee which carried out the arrangements this year.

AI D.- December, 1909.

(4.) Lotteries. - It was unanimously resolved that all Divisions be informed that lottery tickets are not to be sent beyond their own neigh bourhood.

(5.) The Assistant Commissioner strongly urged upon those in charge of Mining Divisions the advisability of forming Rescue Detachments for Mines in conjunctio'1 with the Brigade to enable men to be properly tramed in the use of rescue apparatus.

At the conclusion of the conference the officers dined together, and lJrior to the breaking up of the meeting the Assistant Commissioner, in a few well chosen words, thanked the officers present, and through them the whole of the district, for the loya·l support which had been accorded him during the past year.

A New Fire Extinguisher.

ALTHOUGH the chemical action underlying the principle of the majority of fir e extinguishers at present on the market are more or less identical, that of the "Foam" Fire Extinguisher differs somewhat from others that we have seen. In addition to the usual alkaline and acid mixture another solution is added; immediately the fluid is discharged from the extinguisher and strikes the burning mass it produces a thick foam, which increases in volume the original quantity of fluid to about six times, thereby increasing its efficiency as a fire extinguishing agent. This layer of foam also cuts off the air from the fire, thereby greatly diminishing its chance of extension.

It is claimed for this extinguisher that it is capable of extinguishing burning petrol, or gasoline in bulk, as the thick foam cuts off the burning vapour from the petrol and

December, 1909. -FIRST

A I D.- 93

ward so as to throw the cradle at almost any required angle and hold it there. The struts, C, prevent any side play of the stretcher. On a rough road the blocks, B, can be pegged

deprives the surface of the latter from contact with the air. In proof of the truth of this assertion We may mention that at the conclusion of the test undertaken by the British Fire Prevention Committee, it was reported "That the extinguisher was effective on petrol fires of considerable severity."

One special point in its favour is its simplicity of construction. There is no glass bottle to break, no taps tu get jammed, and no rubber tubes to perish; all that one requires to do to put the extinguisher in action is merely to turn it upside down.

It is manufactured in several size, from ! gal. to 3t gals., and each machine is tested up to a pressure of 200 lbs. The larger sizes are also provided with a safety valve. Full particulars and price can be had from Messrs. E. & A. Levetus & Co., 55 -6 , Basinghall-st., London, E.c.

We are in no wa'JI responsible jor the opinions or the statements made, by Correspondents.-EDIToRs

STRETCHER BOGIE.

SIR -In Mr. Chrisp'S Prize Essay, published in the November Magazine, I noticed that he would use a Bogie with levelling adjustment," transp?rt patients. Having had some e xperi en ce 111 conveytng tnJured persons underground over rough and uneven roads, I was partlcul.arly interested in this arrangement, and would be gr eatly obliged Lo Mr. Chrisp if he would send a sketch of to FIRST AID. Thanking him in anticipation.-I rematn. AN I NTERESTED COLLIER.

DEAR SIR,-I n response to. I lJ request for sketch of stretcher bogie With. leve1l1l1.g have pleasure in submitting the follOWing to hiS notice, and also to other readers who may be interested in th is subject. Fig. is an ordinary corf bogie, with three upngh.ts on each side ( A ) These are groo, -ed to allow the cross-pi ece s,

FIG. 3. well back, and the cradle swung by hand to mitig at e the uneven surface passed O\ er.-Yours truly, G. CHRISP. Silverwood Colliery, near Rotherham.

ESSAY COMl-'ETITION.

DEAR SIR -I have just received the "First Aid Case " I won in your "Colliery Competition. " .r am with it and pleased to have won such a fine prize, as I IS only nine since I commenced to study" first aid " work, receiving my yea:" .as recently. as last June. This is my Sixth pn ze smce that time, five bemg won in open competition.

I wish your paper every success I t. should be read by all interested in ambulance work. - Yours faithfully, C. P. FIN'. Hemsworth Colliery, near \Vakefield. N ovem ber 27th, 190 9.

COMPRESSION OF BRAIN.

DEAR SIR. - The view expressed in your columns, in reply to your corr espondent, J. Mursim, cold water applicatio ns should not be applted to the head, m the above injury, will, I feel sure, come as a gr eat to aiders and Will have the effe ct of causing a doubt 111 thell minds' as to their futu r e treatment in a case of this sort.

FIG. I.

B, to slide up and down. C is a union s c re:v, which regulates the height of the cross-pieces. The stretcher.ls, of co urse, fi.rmly secured on the c ross - pieces. D and D Fig. 2) are spnn.gs. It is poss ib le hy thiS means to keep.a patient level e,:,en whdst travelling on a road which dips or rises from the hOrizontal to 30de g s I do not claim any special advantage for these adjusting

The impressions I gathered from the medical lecturer upon undergOing tnstr uctlon: has been to the lesser of two evils in a case like thiS. By the applicatIOn of cold, bleeding may be arrested, thereby upon the brain is prevented, thus greatly helptng the patient to recover. Should shock become apparent Its effect can be co unteracted by the application heat, &c.

Its omission from the offiCial text-book, cannot, to .my mind be taken as a proof th a t cold should not be applied, that a careful perusal of the. book reveals the omission of many other very important pOints 1.0 the way of treatment of injuries; and, I say, a doubt must anse, espeCially when we have the application of lCebags and cold dressings advo ca ted by such men as Osborn, Collie and Wightman, Warwick and Tunstall, Sir Powell, Bart., Scott Riddell. and even Meta Carpus In hiS notes pub· lished in your July Issue. .'

Can you secure us further adVi ce upon thiS so Critical a point to first aiders.- Yours, &c., J. J. ASCOTT.

DEAR SIR,-With regard to the letter .i n this month s issue of FIRST AID under .above the answer thereto is, in my oplmon, not suffiCiently compreprehenslve. , I fi I I

FIG. 2.

bogies on rough roads, but where varying are met with they are invaluable to the co mfort of the patient.. Fig ., is much simpler and perhaps better. In IS aga1l1 on the co;f bogie principle, and is like twO cradle. hxed to <Yether on a rocking shaft, A. The B, slide tn grooves on b the bogie frame, and can be pegged either forward or back -

To properly grasp the situatIOn,. It to c"ear y that the condition of affairs In compreSSIOn, due recognise .' h h' h to fracture and depressed bone, IS qUite different to t at w 1C exists in "compression " due- -

(a) To the pres sure of effused from diseased and ruptured blood vessels, such as occur m and.

b) To the corr.pressic;)l1 that is apt. to ans e reaction stage of conCUSSIOn, espe czally If. lit e be 171/properly treated, when, through increase In the force of the cerebral circulation, an outpouring of blood may commenc e

(

from the more or less injured hlood ves sel conne c ted with the brain.

In compression of the brain due to depressed bone, it will be readily seen that neither elevation of head and nor application of cold c ould do any good, but would Indeed do harm by increasing the condition of shock.

But, on the other hand, in c ompressIon f)f the brain, due to apoplexy, and also in that following the reil c tion stage of concussion; in both of these c ases, the use of cold to the head, Ivitb slight elevat ion of the head and shoulders, 'lUo uld undoubted!), be cOJ7du c ve t o goo d, as hal ing a tendency to lessen the flow and pressure of blood in the injured and ble edi ng vessels, and therefore tending to promote the coagulatIOn, and lessen the danger of increasing compression

It may be thought that with the cold, clammy skin, pul s e and pale fa ce that a cc ompanies con c ussion of the brain, elevation and c old would be contra-indi c ated. And so indeed it is , durin g the early sta g e. But with a h istor y of injury to the head, with signs and symptom s sug g esti"e of con c ussion, the patient should be carefully wat c hed prior to a nd during transport, and, up on t he fi r st S1/[71S o reac!z'o17 , then should the patient be placed, with head and shoulders sli g htly elev a ted, and cold constantly applied, all necessary precautions being taken to prevent mental and physical disturbance-thus t o ! es se n rea ct/oll a r)' da77g-e r.

It is well to remember that the greater the preliminary condition of sho ck, so much the greater is the dan g er that accompanies the reaction stag e.

\Vith regard to the use of cold caution is necessary, from a competition, as well as from a practical, point of view. The ambulance student must ( in th is, as in other matters ) pro\'e himself observant, discriminating and resourceful. If cold c loths are used, they should be frequently renewed, o therwise they would become warm, and, acting more as a fomentation, 1V0uld do more harm than g ood. - Yo urs faithfully,

M.B , C.M. , EDI N

THE

and they, the wi ve s, the mothers, and the s is ters have got the g rit, likewise the knowledge how to nurse those loved ones.

I think it was S ir Frederi c k Treves, who speaking of the South Afri c an Campaign, said the two great troubles to contend with out there were the" plague of flies and women." He would have said otherwise if he had but had some of the St. John s Nurses. No, Mr. Editor, the lassies may keep up their spirits, they will never be elbowed out by those who are running the new movement, they ve proved their worth, and the English nation is a bit too cautious to ac c ept anything on trust, however h igh the source may be from whence it comes.

- Yours truly.

THE

SUD-DIVI SIONAL IN SPECTOR ( Retired ) BRITISH RED RAILWAY CROSS SOCIETY TRANSPORT. AND

SIR, - As a railway ambulance man I have been much interested in your recent article on railway transport, and hope we shall soon have another dealing with the same subject. It has o cc urred to me that the question of providing fully equipped ambulan ce trains for servi c e on British railways in case of forei g n invasion, is one tiJat might well be considered by the Red Cross Society; especially bearing in mind the fact, that one of its leading members is said to have recently stated, that in the Boer War, owing to the fact that everything had to be prepared so hurriedly, proper supervision could not be given to the construction, the result being the wrong type of trains were built and sent out to the front. If this was really so, surely now is the proper time to guard against any possibility of future mismanagement in this direction.

Decem ber, 19°9. -FIRST readers and others who may be interested in the q uest ion s he calls attention to. - ED. " F.A."]

QUERIES RELATING TO FRACTURES.

DEAR SIR, - May I ask your opinion through the of your valuable journal, on two treatments of fractures, whI c h do not seem to be quite clear in our First Ai el Text Book, VIZ.-

I. "Fracture of Lower Jaw. "-The book state s " Apply the centre of a narrow bandage under tbe chin, etc. "

We find in practice, that by carrying out this rule, the knot cannot be conveniently tied on the opposite s ide of the neck, away from the loop, as the illustration on page. 44 lead you to suppose it should be done The. questIOn art s es, should we be justified in tying off on the Side of the neck, where the loop in formed.

2. "Fracture of both Clavicles.- The book does not '>tate and the illustration on page 5 I does not show, whether pads'should be applied under both armrits, also it is not stated whether clothing should be removed ( there would, no doub t be difficulty in doing this )

There seems a diversity of opinion amongst our mcd.lcal gentlemen regarding this but I know of where pomts have been lost in competItIon through neglectmg to appl y the pads.

If you could kindly enlighten me on t he above I should esteem it a great favour. Thankm g you m antl c lpation.- Yours truly, " DU ALI NE. "

Business Items.

BOLTON. - It is proposed to proceed with th e purchase of a motor ambulance.

CHI SW ICK.- The new motor ambul a nce has been received.

GLA SG OW. - T e nders are invit e d for supply of a motor ambulance.

HEANOR.-A second-hand hors e d ambulanc e is required. Apply W. C. Long, Town Hall.

HADDIN CTON SHIRE. - The e.c. are considering th e question of providing a motor ambul a nc e for the Western District Hospital.

S CAR BO ROUG H.- Th e R. D.e. a re c o nsiderin g the question of he provision of a hors e ambul a nc e at an estimated cost of ;£ 6 8.

SELSEY.- The P.e. have decid e d to provid e fir eextinguishing applian c es for use with hydrants , and oth e r equipment for the Fire Brigade, at a total cost of about £43·

TIN SLEY.-The P.e. are consid e ring the question of provision of fire appliances for the parish.

Nearl) I{eady. Sixth Edition. 45th Thousand. W ith 234 Orig in a l Draw ngs. L imp Cloth with Flap, 25. 6d. net ; Paper, IS. net. POSl flee IS. 3d.

U FIRST AID" TO THE INJURED AND SICK.

BRITISH

RED CROSS SOCIETY

AND THE ST. JOHN AMB U LA CE BRIGADE.

DEAR SlR,-Like y our c orrespondent, "Transport Superintendent, " I think that some of your readers and yourself have been unne c essarily alarmed at the prospect of possible injury being done to the St. John Ambulance Brigade by the formation Voluntary Aid Detac hments. Just at the present m?mentthlS newscheme is the latest fashionable pastime of the socIety dames, and they are" booming " it for all they are worth, but I don ' t think their enthusiasm will carry them far beyond the forn:alion sta g e: directly it enters on the sphere of wo!-k, mmus the glamour of the periodical pars 111 the and other newspapers, Madame will decIde that she requIres some new excitement and will quit the mo vement, lea ving it to her humbler sisters to carryon the wo r k. I have seen this OCcur in conne c tion with other mOl ements so often in the past, indeed I remember that it was so in the early days of the St. John Ambulance I was then a constable in the Metropolitan Police, and the do c tor who used to le c ture to u s wa s lecturing a ladies ' class in Belgravia, but they dldn t keep It up long, as a matter of fact neither did we. they say, is a fine thing, and we didn t get much 111 those days to de vote to "fads" and as such I am afraid, many of us then looked upon aid. I since had t.o alter my views, for I, perhaps, owe my life to tbe first aId sktll of a br0ther officer. But I must confine my remarks to the bef?re the Court, as the magistrates say vVhat I deSIred to pOInt out, was tbat when the Society ladles fell away from ambulan c e work, its value already been brought home to. the women of the middle and working classes , the latter contmued to carry It on, and they are now tc? tbe fore when there is a possibility of their services beIng reqUIred to render skilful aid, and tender sympathy to Some poor I ve seen them at work sometimes, when the task reqU Ired not only a steady and skilful hand, but a stout heart. Bu.t, Lord bless YOLl, tbey never sbirked it, no mattf'r how undeSIrable their patient might be.

are tbe women who will rally to the aid of the should tbis country ever have to face inVaSIOn, theIr men and boys are amongst the rank and file,

I would suggest that a number of Hospital Trains might be c onstructed and handed over to the custody of the various railways, on the distin c t understanding that the Companies should undertake to maintain them in readiness for immediate mobilisation. I have not the slightest doubt that the ambulance employ e s of the several Companies would be only too willin g to keep the trains and equipment in thorot.:gh working order, and tbe Britisb Red Cross Society might arrange for an instru c tor to periodically visit each railway, and instruct members of tbe staff in the necessary drill for loading and unloading, etc. This would ensure the smooth working of the trains should the y be required at sbort notice owing to an Llnfortunate outbreak of war. Again, in the event of a seriolls railway a c cident the train could be promptly dispatched to the scene of the disaster, and would prove invaluable in fa,l:iliting the treatment, and subsequent removal of the injured passengers.

I remember some years ago Dr. Heaton Howard speaking at an ambulance gathering held in connection with the Great Eastern Railway, made a strong appeal to the Directors to provide such a train for use on their system, but I think that the worthy doctor lost sight of the fact that Directors had to consider the interests of their shareholders, as well as those of the travelling public; and in these days of shrinking dividends railway companies are even less able to set aside the necessary funds to provide such trains. Here, then, is an opportunity for the Red Cross Society to do a real national service, by making provision in advance for possible contingencies, in addition to which it would be the means of providing work for a large number of men who are at present unemployed, and l kely to remain so unless there is a great revival in trade.

While wr iting you upon this subject I should like to call attention to another matter, if not trespassing too much; it is with reg:ud to the annual Inter-Railway Competitiun, it seems to me that railway transport might with advantage be included in the practical tests for efficiency. Year after year the same programme, with but slight variation, is repeated. A change would therefore be of interest not only to old competitors, but might be the means of arousing an interest among railway men generally, and perhaps be the means of inducing fresh comers to come forward and enter into competition work.

Thanking you for the courtesy at all times shown to your railway readers, and the interest you take in them as a class,I am, sir, yours respectfully, TRAFFIC DEPARTl\TENT.

[We thank our correspondent for his exceedingly interesting letter. Both suggestions are worthy of further consideration, and we shall be pleased to hear the views of our railway

[Fracture of the Lower Jaw. - It is quite that the diagram does not a g ree WIth the method of puttmg on the bandage described in the book. \i\Te.do not see, however, wh y it should not be tied where the loop IS formed. you

O'et the knot on the other side of the n ec k by pla c m g the c hm one side of the centre of the bandage.

Fracture of both Clavicles. - We are of opInion that pads under the armpits are not required, as the of the treatment is not quite the same as when one claVicle We do not see th a t it is necessary to remo ve the clothing, as It is some protection againt the pressure c aused by the banda g e being tied round the arm.

The above opinions are confirmed a medi c al man who is a recognised authority on bandagm g, &c But differ and that is the lu ck, either g o ou or bad, that competItors have 'to contend with. - EDITO R "F.A. "J

NO.lo

IBALHAM AND STREATHA M) N URSIN G DIVI SION.

-In with this Division a whist drive will be held at the" Cabins Restaurant," Caxton House, Westminster, on Saturday, January sth. 35. each, which will inelude refreshments, may be obtamed from the Lady Supt., Miss Law, 2 I, .Upper Tooting, S. W., or from any member of the DIVISIOn. profit accruing will be devoted to the funds of the DIVISIon.

NORTHAMPTON. - A private conference in connection with this important district was held on ber 21th under the presidency of the ChIef CommiSSioner General Belgrave Ninnis, R.N., M.D) to consider what attitude the Brigade should take up With regard to the British Red Cross Society. There was a a?d representative of the officers of the eluding Asst.-CommIssIoner T. H. Woolston, Dlstnct ChIef Surgeon Audland, District Supt. of Stores the Rev. Dore Rudgard, M.A.; District Supt: Treasurer G. H. Nelson, M.D.; Chief Surgeon .ChlefSupt,:' Harvey Reeves (Northampton), .GIlbert (Blrmmgham), I\...Ing (Leicester), Nicholson (Wellmgborough), &c. , We learn that it was generally felt that members of the Brigade should form Voluntary Detachments under their own officers any other course It was would be detrimental to the best interests of the Bngade as involving dual control.

An Advanced Ambulance Handbook.

By F. J. WARWICK, B.A" M.B., Cantab., and A. C, TUNSTALL, M,D., F,R.C,S., Edin, " H as a lr eady taken its place as a standar d work. "-B,-it. Med. Jour.

Fourth Edition On Sheets " ft. 2in. by 3ft. 4 n. ,. or 275. 6d. net. the se of 18 Shee ls, or mounted on L nen 45S. net. " Ilh Ickel Head for SnspenslOn. Adopted by tbe WAR OFFICE, the ADMIRALTY, and the LONDON SCHOOL BOARD.

LARCE SHEET U FIRST AID" DIACRAMS

Of the Illustrations in Warwick 6: Tunstall's'" FIR.ST AID' TO THE INJURED AND SICK."

Pa per Covers, nterlea\'ed 6d. ne t. Post free 7d. AMBULANCE EXAMINATION QUESTIONS.

By D. M. MACDONALD, M.B., S"rg. Lieut. 2nd Scot/isl, I/one " \\'i ll he fou nd ex tr eme y usefu by h ose attend ng ec.tu es.p escribed by d fferent Assoc ia ti ons, and who are preparing for theexamlllatiOns. -Broad A,-row

BRISTOL: JOHN WRIGHT & CO. L ondon Depo : '4, Paternoster Sq., E. C. LONDON: SIMPKIN, MARSHALL, HAMILTON, KENT 6: CO., Ltd

Aids to Memory for "First Aid" Students.

By l. M. FRANK CHRISTIAN, M.B., e.M. EDIN. Honora ry Associate of tlte Order of St. folllt Holt Life 11[e",l'e r o/, and Examiner for, tlte St. Jolm A mbulaflct! Assoc :'''o,:. " ami C0111 rehe nsi\'e l ttle work. To t be seasoned first al?:r It A PAs an aid o those wh o enter for Ambulance w dl prove a oO.n. \\'c: ha\'e seen and read many text books o n th ,s i t p

Bowls. Trophies. Cups.