CHAPTER IV, 



DISEASES. 



GENERAL REMARKS. There is a quaint old saying that 

 " Prevention is better than cure," and there is more philosophy 

 in that maxim than at first sight appears, except to those 

 who may be intimately acquainted with the "His that flesh 

 is heir to." 



It is well known to pathologists that the most prolific causes, 

 both in the origination and dissemination of diseases, are, 

 first, the eating of food which is too rich and nourishing, and, 

 secondly, the overloading of the stomach. These, as a natural 

 sequence, are the promoters of indigestion or dyspepsia, which 

 is the forerunner of a great variety of complaints, more 

 particularly in those who are of a thriving constitution, with 

 a natural tendency to obesity. Such people, if they partake 

 too freely of the good things of this life, are prone to gout 

 and rheumatism and other kindred ailments, and more par- 

 ticularly if they lead an inactive and sedentary life. Perhaps 

 the next great evil is the want of sufficient fresh air and out- 

 of-door exercise. Close confinement is a great enemy to health, 

 without which life becomes a weary burden. Calisthenics, or 

 even athletic exercise, if used in moderation, invigorate the 

 human frame and give strength and vitality to those who 

 without them would be weak and delicate. If, then, the science 

 of physiology teaches us that these things are to be duly 

 regarded, in order that we may enjoy good and uninterrupted 

 health, how much more necessary is it that they should be fully 



