One most important result of the inquiry of the Royal Commission has been to destroy this bugbear. They have reduced "climate" to its proper dimensions and influence, and they have shown that, just as hot moist weather at home calls people to account for sanitary neglects and acts of intemperance, so does the climate of India call to account the same people there. There is not a shadow of proof that India was created to be the grave of the British race. The evidence, on the contrary, is rather in the other direction, and shows that all that the climate requires is that men shall adapt their social habits and customs to it; as, indeed, they must do to the requirements of every other climate under heaven.
This necessity includes all the recommendations made by the Royal Commission for improving the health, and reducing to one-sixth the death-rate of the British army in India. They all amount to this:—You have in India such and such a climate; if you wish to keep your health in it:—
Be moderate in eating and drinking; eat very little animal food; let your diet be chiefly farinaceous and vegetable.
Spirits are a poison, to be used only (like other poisons) for any good purpose, under medical advice.
Use beer or light wine, but sparingly.
Drink coffee or tea.
Clothe yourself lightly to suit the climate, wearing thin flannel always next the skin.
