The old sawbuck saddle, shaped like the letter X, answers very well,
but the Mexican pack, known as the aparcho, is much better. It is made
of a plated straw matting, on which is fastened a strong wicker-work
saddle, and a properly folded blanket, for you must be careful that
the animal's back does not get sore. The saddle is fastened by pliant
ropes, or broad belts of leather, called in the West "cinches," to
fasten which securely requires some skill, as they pass through a
circular ring and are secured by a hitch or peculiar knot that holds
well and can be unfastened with a quick jerk.

For a journey of ten miles or more I would not advise you to make the
pack load more than two hundred pounds, though I have known mules to
carry three hundred pounds at a pace of twenty miles a day over rough
trails.

If the pack is heavy, it may be lightened by having each camper carry
his own blankets, in a roll, the case resting on the right shoulder. I
would advise each to carry a canteen if there is danger of your being
long away from good water.

You should have the following articles: A long-handled frying pan, a
bunch of a half dozen pieces of telegraph wire, each two feet long,
with which to make a spider or broiler; by simply laying them across
the fire or over the hot coals you have a gridiron; you may bundle it
up when its work is done; three or four assorted tin buckets for
cooking purposes and for water; a tin coffee pot; a long iron fork; a
long iron spoon; some cheap tin cups, plates and spoons, and some
forks and knives.

Do not depend upon the fish and game for food supply, but take along