Note 9 — MY VOYAGE HOME.

252A life in the camp may not be very agreeable, or such as is experienced on a farm at home. People have to put up with a good deal if they wish to better their condition, and remember that it is not always a matter of choice, but of necessity, which compels them to seek their fortunes in a foreign country. Those who can live comfortably or find suitable occupation at home should remain there. One of the great drawbacks to the success of young Englishmen out in the camp is, I am sorry to say, the terrible propensity to indulgence in the free use of ardent spirits, which soon enfeebles their constitution and often leads to an untimely grave. This a little self-denial would soon enable them to avoid. Several of these melancholy instances occurred during my short stay in the country. The climate itself is sufficiently stimulating without the excitement arising, from the brandy bottle, the use of which, even in towns and cities, is often carried to excess. As a rule, the natives are sober, and set a good example to foreigners in this respect if they would only profit by it.