The movement has now spread over all the world and has enrolled hundreds of thousands of boys. But it is most active in America and England and all the English-speaking colonies. There are several hundred thousand members led by many thousand Scout Masters. Most of the National departments, many of the states and all of the big public movements are actively co-operating with the Scout movement.
WHAT THE BOY SCOUT MOVEMENT MEANS.
The impression that many people have, that the real purpose of the Boy Scout movement is to train future soldiers, is wrong. It is intended first to give the boy, deprived by modern industry of his ancient rights, a square deal, to till his vacant or mischievously employed hours with healthy, absorbing interests; to give him a better developed body, more acute senses, a more alert and resourceful mind, and to help him grow up into a more useful, responsible man and patriotic citizen. No guns, swords, gauntlets, whips, spurs or any purely military equipment are allowed, and no military drilling is prescribed. Target shooting with a bow and arrow, that a boy may make for himself, is encouraged. But he stalks game only with an opera glass, and takes shots only with the photographic camera. Honors are for feats of skill, results of serious study and deeds of humanity. They are to be won only by courage, industry, strength and honesty. Every badge stands for clean living and sustained effort.
HOW TO BECOME A BOY SCOUT.
With the boy who reads this the first question would naturally be: "How can I become a Boy Scout?" There is no difficulty about it, for it is desired to enlist as many boys as possible. Information and practical help are freely given, on request in person or by letter, at the National Headquarters, which are located in New York City. There are Scout Councils in all the large cities in the country, and in many populous towns and counties; and local committees are being established in villages and city districts. The official handbook of The Boy Scouts of America is to_be found or ordered in any bookstore, and is on the shelves of most public libraries. Any boy, anywhere, who is between the ages of twelve and eighteen, can easily learn how to get into touch with the nearest local Scout Council, and how to join, or even to form a new patrol. But usually a new patrol is
