If sodium sulphite is to be used in the field, the following formula, which is in wide use, may serve as a basis for trials. _Formula for Use of Sodium Sulphite in the Field._ (_a_) Dissolve anhydrous sodium sulphite in water at the rate of 1 pound to 3 gallons. (_b_) Of this solution each coolie is given about 3/4 pint. This is usually sufficient for a task of 350 trees. The solution is used by shaking a few drops into the cup or, diluted with an equal volume of water, it is run down the main channel when the latex flows. [Illustration: 1. SHOWING EFFECT OF "WINTERING."] On some estates it is found either unnecessary or impracticable to use the solution in this manner. Instead the anti-coagulant is placed in the bottom of the bucket prior to the commencement of collection. The solution is made as in (_a_) above, and roughly half an ordinary latex-cupful is placed in each bucket. [Illustration: 2. NEW GROWTH OF YOUNG LEAF ON SAME TREE.] COLLECTING PAILS.--All vessels intended for the transport of latex should have a smooth and curved interior, so that cleansing may be easy. Preferably the interior and exterior surfaces should be glazed, but it is often found that the enamel chips easily, and that the handles are too frail in construction. The shoulder-pieces, to which the handles are joined, are often too lightly attached to the bucket. Something stouter in the shape of enamelled ware is required, without an appreciable increase in weight. Until such a utensil is available, the heavily galvanised and brass-bound milk-pails used on some estates are as good as anything at present in vogue, providing they are kept scrupulously clean. [Illustration: EFFECTS OF DISEASE--"MOULDY ROT." (_a_) Note on right hand the panel next in order for tapping; a hopeless position.] [Illustration: EFFECTS OF DISEASE--"MOULDY ROT." (_b_) The present cut badly infected; above there is no renewal of bark.] The collecting pails should be kept under cover, when not in use, either at the muster grounds or at the factory. On some estates coolies are allowed to take them to their quarters, where they are used for various purposes. Curious effects of this practice have sometimes been noticed. As an example might be quoted an instance in which premature coagulation was found to take place to a surprising degree. It was discovered eventually that the coolies (Javanese in this case) were in the habit of utilising the buckets for the preparation of their food. A liquid extract of a popular fruit was often made. This extract was very markedly acid in character, and as the buckets were not afterwards thoroughly cleansed, the latex of the following day suffered. [Illustration: EFFECTS OF DISEASE--"MOULDY ROT." (_c_) As in (_b_); another tree.] Preferably all buckets should have a lid of slightly funnel shape. This is inverted during collection, and thus prevents much dirt falling into the latex.