16 INTRODUCTORY REMARKS. 



the general presentation, or, so to speak, plan, of new ideas, to 

 either the popular or the professional student; as ideas are 

 usually, though not always, more easily obtained through lan- 

 guage that is familiar, though imperfect, than when the mean- 

 ing of it is also to be learned. (See Appendix E.) 



Such an explanation as that just made will often remove a 

 very natural prejudice from the minds of parents, and secure the 

 favorable opinion of any professional man who would not be 

 likely to think a few weeks of much use in his studies, or that 

 they could be easily comprehended by young persons. That 

 labor is not lost which will render this subject agreeable to 

 every person. It is worthy of patience and painstaking. Not 

 the wise, but the ignorant, need instruction, and ignorance must 

 be removed, not offended nor opposed. 



But any difficulties in connection with this subject will 

 readily melt away under the warm enthusiasm of a teacher zeal 

 ous to discharge all his duty, and ambitious to take a high rank. 

 in one of the most useful and deserving professions. 



This work was prepared 



(1st) Because the study of Hygiene will promote health, pro- 

 long life, improve personal appearance, render the action of 

 body and mind more efficient, and much increase the sum of 

 human happiness. 



(2d) Because, though the subject is well presented in many 

 books, and well taught through their use, improvements 'upon 

 them are desirable and attainable. A little improvement in a 

 subject of such importance is a gain exceeding the outlay of 

 means; even without improvement a new book will refresh and 

 invigorate a teacher, and it will be profitable to any pupil to 

 have more than one work on this subject. 



(3d) Because many persons, well qualified to judge, have de- 

 cided that its distinctive features are superior, and desired to 

 have a text-book prepared in accordance with them ; and 



'. 



