I carried a revolver in the saddle and my sword.

I was covered with a large cloak, and under this I wore a warm, tight-fitting woollen jersey, a pair of knickerbockers, thick stockings, and light canvas shoes.

I had rubbed myself thoroughly with oil, and I carried a large flask of whisky.

The night was warm, but I might probably be immersed a long while, and it was necessary to take every precaution against cold: for cold not only saps a man's courage if he has to die, but impairs his energy if others have to die, and, finally, gives him rheumatics, if it be God's will that he lives.

Also I tied round my body a length of thin but stout cord, and I did not forget my ladder.