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I think the members, who have attended both the 1906 and 1907 camps, have now a very good knowledge of the frontier portion of the New Territories. The ponies stood the work well, and beyond a few falls off bridges and paddy bunds, we had no accidents. I have to report one case of sore back, and two ponies girthgalled, these were treated with the simple remedy of salt and water and were able to carry their owners back to Hongkong without further harm.
A farrier was in attendance, but his services were not required. Last year many of our ponies required re-shoeing or attendance of some kind, this year we covered more ground and theoretically more shoeing work should have been required. I can only ascribe this satis- factory state of affairs to the better weather we enjoyed this year, and consequent drier state of the ground with less suction on the ponies' shoes.
Saddlery.--I much regret to report that the leather of most of the bridles and head- stalls at present in use, has perished.
Practically every bridle had to be repaired while in Camp, and though some of the breaks were no doubt due to careless handling on the part of the members, I think there is no doubt that the condition of these articles is not good. I would recommend that 40 new
sets be ordered from India without delay.
I would also ask that a supply of stout straps for fastening blankets and overcoats to- saddles be ordered at the same time; these last named articles we have hitherto procured ourselves locally, but they are not a success.
Field Firing.--On Christmas morning, the Troop was divided into two sections and field firing was carried on at small figure targets. The shooting was very fair.
Sentry Work--Sentries were placed over the Camp from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Every man present in Camp thus performed from four to six hours sentry-work, during the five days we
were out.
In conclusion I would mention that the Camp was pitched in a most satisfactory manner, two temporary bridges built and some roads made by Iuspector Hupsos, who acts as our Instructor, and whose services were kindly lent to us by the Sanitary Authorities of Hongkong.
The Commissariat was attended to by Ying Kee who carried out his onerous duties to the satisfaction of all who were present.
I have, etc.,
C. H. Ross, Lieut.,
Commanding II.K. Val. Troop.