The co-operation of tiny sea insects has brought about the formation of coral islands. No enterprise is too big where there is goodwill and co-operation in carrying it out. Every day we are turning away boys anxious to join the Movement, because we have not the men or women to take them in hand. There is a vast reserve of loyal patriotism and Christian spirit lying dormant in our nation to-day, mainly because it sees no direct opportunity for expressing itself. Here in this joyous brotherhood there is vast opportunity open to all in a happy work that shows results under your hands and a work that is worth while because it gives every man his chance of service for his fellow-men and for God.

Old Socrates spoke truly when he said, “No man goeth about a more godly purpose than he who is mindful of the right upbringing not only of his own, but of other men’s children.”

B.-P.

N.B.:The statistics on membership have been brought up-to-date (1954) and are three times as large as when B-P. last revised this preface.

EXPLANATION OF SCOUTING

N.B.— Sentences in italics throughout the book are addressed to Scoutmasters (instructors).

By the term “scouting” is meant the work and attributes of backwoodsmen, explorers, and frontiersmen.

In giving the elements of these to boys we supply a system of games and practices which meets their desires and instincts, and is at the same time educative.

From the boys’ point of view Scouting puts them into fraternity-gangs which is their natural organization, whether for games, mischief, or loafing; it gives them a smart dress and equipment; it appeals to their imagination and romance; and it engages them in an active, open-air life.