PERSONAL EXPERIENCES. 41 



ward through certain portions of the stem to the leaves. 

 There it is assimilated, and thence it passes downward, 

 forming deposits of new cells over the old wood under- 

 neath the bark. While, therefore, the plant breathes 

 through its leaves, yet if we would reach them internally 

 we must go first to the roots. We cannot improve and 

 enrich the sap in any other way. So in man we supply 

 food and nourishment through the stomach, and fresh 

 air through the lungs, if we would send a color to the 

 cheeks and promote the health of the person. It is the 

 stomach that we purify and strengthen first of all, and 

 the nerves, blood vessels, muscles, and all other tissues 

 derive the benefit. 



