CO882-(8-9) — Page 705

Printed for the use of the Colonial Office.

Eastern

No. 126.

[Fourth Edition.]

NOTES FOR THE INFORMATION OF

APPOINTED TO CEYLON.

CADETS

PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE

Reference :-

TLC.O. 882

9

PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE, LONDON |ALLY WITHOUT PERMISSION OF THE BE REPRODUCED PHOTOGRAPHIC- | COPYRIGHT PHOTOGRAPH-NOT TO

The following hints to Cadets appointed to Ceylon have been supplied by an officer of the Ceylon Civil Service :-

I. CLIMATE, DISEASE, &c.

There are many climates in Ceylon, and home clothes, &c..

will all be useful at one time or other as one changes station.

There is not much malaria in Ceylon, except in a few stations. Dysentery is not uncommon, and there is always some enteric in Colombo. Cold rather than heat is dangerous because of chills. The best preventive against chills is suitable clothing, and especially the wearing of woollen things, either underclothing or shirts, next the skin. Some prefer wool and silk textures; some consider cotton undervests sufficiently safe.

A medicine chest can be obtained from the Colonial Store. keeper on payment, and it can be filled and re-filled free of cost

at the Civil Medical Stores. The insanitary habits of cooks and other servants must be carefully supervised by inspection of kitchens, drains, &c. Ceylon kitchen fixtures are generally primitive. If clean food is desired, a range or stove is necessary (procurable in Colombo for about Rs. 90).

Some think it is of advantage to filter water with a first class filter before use. It should be boiled before use also. The origin of milk should be ascertained, and it should be boiled before use. Some persons abstain from alcoholic drinks till after 6 P.M. Whisky is the general alcoholic drink. Mineral waters are manu- factured in Ceylon.

Mosquito nets are necessary at night. Care should be taken that they are without holes, as otherwise they are worse than useless.

The persons who enjoy the best health in Ceylon are those who take ordinary care, avoid exoems in eating and drinking, avoid drugs, and are keen on work, sport, or hobbies.

It is no harm to know that Ceylon is often spoken of, climatically and otherwise, as the best place east of Bues. though some dislike its moist heat.

(10500-3) WL, 3799-840 000 1 3 0.1

PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE

Reference:-

TTC.O. 882

6