EUROPEAN COMFORTS.	77
	making and building, must, however, at this time, be suspended; but where the work is carried on under cover, as in tunnels and reduction buildings, no stoppage is expected. From November to March the weather is bright and pleasant, the atmosphere pure and clear; and. a fine breeze coming from the western coast, makes residence on the Wynaad pla­teau agreeable enough. In the valleys it will neces­sarily always be warm. The bungalows are usually built so as to get the full benefit of this breeze. Fever, to which natives as well as Europeans are subject, is not often fatal in its effects. It arises from the malarious vapours generated by heat on the Terrai, a low swampy ground at the foot of the Ghats. A liberal use of quinine, as a preventive rather than a cure, is recommended ; but a change to Ootacamund is the best remedy. So soon as the rains commence, fever disappears; and with ordinary precautions of moderation in living, especially in the use of spirits, plenty of outdoor exercise, and regularity of habit, no one need fear the effects of the climate. As yet living is somewhat expensive in the Wynaad, though not more so than in many other parts of India. Supplies of European preserved provisions can be obtained at Ootacamund, and even at Guadalur, where an enterprising Parsee merchant has opened a store. Indeed, I understand that he contemplates establishing a branch shop in the new station of Pundalur, which is likely to be a great convenience.