What is the meaning of No. 1 mess kit?

[MacMillan of Rathdown]

Surely they don't still have Sedan chairs in Virginia, do they?

Some of my more genteel dear friends still prefer this mode of transport, although just last week I noticed Mr. Picayune Carter (a gentleman of slight acquaintance) sitting astride a rail carried by several stout lads heading down main street, in the direction of out of town. I am sure this was meant to honour Mr. Carter, although I am sure from the expression on his face he would have preferred walking to the train station. Yes, even as the leaves fall, life remains gracious in Virginia.