HYPERKERATOSIS OF THE SKIN 175 



the body on which it forms, as, for example, in leprosy, 

 where we contend that the prevention of hyperkeratosis 

 will banish from the human family that long-dreaded and 

 familiar scourge. 



It is eminently here where want of parallelism between 

 structure and function applies, and where the removal or 

 detachment of devitalised and functionless materials be- 

 comes a matter of vital moment if the preservation of 

 health is to be maintained, and where, if nature is unable 

 alone to accomplish the work, she must be aided by art > 

 medical as well as surgical. 



1 ' Cleanliness," in the strictest sense and the completest 

 form, externally and internally, "is next to Godliness." 

 and must, consequently, be the aim of everyone anxious 

 to live out his or her days to their natural end, and to 

 take out of this life all of comfort and happiness he or 

 she possibly can. It, consequently, becomes the bounden 

 duty of the individual and, therefore, of the State, so to 

 educate public opinion that it will be strong enough to 

 enforce the laws of public health, as well as to influence 

 the character of the legislation necessary to this great end. 



