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I happened upon a site on the history of the "Scout Law" and came across this verbiage:
A SCOUT SMILES AND WHISTLES under all circumstances. When he gets an order he should obey it cheerily and readily, not in a slow, hang-dog sort of way. Scouts never grouse at hardships, nor whine at each other, nor swear when put out. When you just miss a train, or some one treads on your favorite corn--not that a scout should have such things as corns--or under any annoying circumstances, you should force yourself to smile at once and then whistle a tune, and you will be all right.
What does "corn" mean in this instance and why ought a scout not to have one?
This is just a guess; I would say number 4, a hardened bump on the foot. That said, I have never had one so I don't know if they hurt when tread upon. But, I can say that a scout should take care of their feet like a soldier should--you don't want to be in pain while hiking in an enjoyable spot. In fact, I made sure I wore my new hiking boots for several weeks before I went to Philmont so they were broken in when I got there.
Emmett Redd, Eagle Scout
I was as confused as you. But I have to agree with Emmett in principle.
I have done a search, and have found many versions of this expression with tread, trod, step, and stomp.. I found literal and figurative uses, and references to the phrase as an idiomatic expression. The favorite refers to the most painful. Figuratively, it means something like pushing someone's hot button.
Martha Barnette
Grant Barrett
Grant Barrett
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