Answer:
Step-by-step explanation:
The author includes these details to inform the reader of some of the ways the men tried to protect themselves from the mosquitoes. The mention of the face protectors and the closed net shows that the men were taking measures to protect themselves from the mosquitoes, which were worse than ever before. This information is relevant to the gauge readings because it provides context for the conditions the men were facing, and helps the reader understand the challenges they were dealing with.
The mention of the Major borrowing Preble's closed net also adds a small element of conflict and tension to the text, which can make the story more interesting. However, the primary purpose of including this detail is to inform the reader about the men's efforts to protect themselves from the mosquitoes.