vi Preface 



his lower nature, and give to every individual his greatest use, 

 and therefore his highest good and happiness. 



I wish, therefore, that this Book may be read by all 

 Christians and Philanthropists ; by all Clergymen, Lawyers, 

 and Physicians ; by all Professors and Teachers ; by Editors 

 and Authors ; by Legislators and Magistrates, Landed Pro- 

 prietors and Capitalists; by Working Men and Working 

 Women ; by all Fathers and Mothers ; by all Young Men and 

 Young Women, who specially need to know what it teaches ; 

 and I believe that it may also be safely, wisely, and with great 

 benefit, placed in the hands of every child who is old enough 

 to understand it: but of this every parent will form his own 

 judgment. 



* The whole book is the result of the study, observation, experi- 

 ence, and thought of an active and varied life, passed in two 

 hemispheres, and now wearing to its close. Its motives will be 

 found in every chapter, and appreciated, I trust, by every 

 reader. I believe that it will do great good first to indivi- 

 duals, by giving a knowledge of the laws of health; later, to 

 society, by aiding in those great social reformations which are 

 destined to change the face of the world, bring peace to 

 nations, plenty to populations, and a higher and purer life to 

 all mankind. For I devoutly believe that the prophecy of the 

 prayer "Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as 

 it is in heaven " must be fulfilled ; and I humbly hope, with 

 God's help, to contribute my mite towards its fulfilment. 



Asking the fraternal co-operation of all who sympathise 

 with me in this object, I remain, ever a humble worker for 

 humanity, 



T. L. NICHOLS. 



MAI.VERN, 1872. 



