ITO TOR EDITOR. OP TIM "81.110TiTOR.') SIR,—A statement like that
of " Quinque Filii" in your last issue does a lot of harm to the Territorial Force. There may be regiments in which this magnificence of apparel is thought necessary, but my experience is quite different. My original outfit cost about £35. I went to a first-class London tailor and got everything that was necessary, though I might have spent another £5 if I had wished for the ne plus ultra. Of this I was repaid the Government allowance of £20. My mess boots, to which your correspondent takes such exception, cost about 20s., and I have had them eight years. Other boots I wear all the year round in the country, as they are the best and most comfortable I can get. My mess bill for the last year exceeded my pay and allowances by £4. I could have saved that £4 if I had liked, but I do not regret it. " Quinque Filii" condemns our extravagance in camp, but it is only fair to remember that for moat of us the yearly camp takes the place of a holiday at the seaside or abroad, and we do not see why, after a good day's work, we should not enjoy a good dinner. For extra regimental work, such as schools of instruction and staff rides, I have found the Government allowance sufficient to cover my expenses, and had my pay in addition. I must add that I fully agree with " Quinque Filii" in my detestation of "millinery," and have tried to get "full dress" abolished in my battalion. I do not see, however, that any good can be done by exaggerating what I consider to be an evil, and there is something to be said on the other side.—I am, Sir, Ste.,
CAPTAIN.
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