BACKWOODS COOKING ''THE HUNTER'S FIRE''

The hunter's fire, for this, select two logs one in. to two ins. in diameter and about eighteen in. long. Lay these side by side about two ins. apart, so that the wind can blow between them. Spread the tinder between the logs, then lay very thin sticks, matchstick size, across the gap between the logs. As soon as one layer is complete, make another of slightly thicker sticks, this time lay them parallel to the logs. After three or four layer, further sticks may be layer from the ground to the top of the pile on both side and at the lee end, leaving the windy end open for the match to light the tinder. The wind will then fan the flame through the length of the fire Remember to leave an air space between the sticks, fire depends as much on air as wood to make it burn.

The fire for the evening meal is usually a more serious affair and the hunter's fire is probably the best method. A large fire will be wanted and, as you can see, the hunter's fire is the best base upon which to build. The fire can be built up quite large before lighting, with two large logs laid along it's length to act as fenders. To from a good bed of embers it is necessary to collect a good supply of hard wood, the best being oak, beech, hornbeam, ash or birch. The fire will have to burn steadily for at least an hour, and don't forget wood will burn better if split. If the fire is made two feet high to start with, it will make the required amount of ember when burn down. When the fire is under way, settle yourself into camp and prepare the food and material for cooking.