(196 THIRTY-FIVE YEARS IN THE EAST. 



XIX. 



"Neglect not bathing, as too many do, 



For, thereby, you may ward off many an ill ; 



Sometimes a warm-bath may your strength renew.; 

 But, of the cold, be sure to take your fill. 



The Easterns, old and young, this course pursue, 

 Nor shun the water though it should be chill ; 



"Hence, such diseases as fell gout and stone, 



To Indians and to Persians are scarce known. 



XX. 



Clean linen as a comfort we esteem, 



And frequent changes of our underdress ; 



These as essential to our health, I deem, 



And therefore urge them on you with some stress- 



'Tis of importance, trifling though it seem. 



What 1 v/ould now upon your minds impress — 



Forget not that whene'er you are attiring. 



Not to put on cold garments, while perspiring. 



XXI. 



Do not neglect the sea, nor flowing river. 

 But, in due season, go to beach or brink ; 



Yet, do not stand undressed, to shake and shiver, 

 Nor from the healthy plunge affrighted shrink ; 



Lave well your limbs, e'en though muscles quiver. 

 And learn to swim, nor be afraid to sink ; 



Swimming invigorates all the limbs and breast. 



Makes the day cheerful, and at night brings rest. 



XXII. 



But, a"bove all, let Diet have your care, 



For, therein healthy action most depends • 



Of after-efforts you may well despair 

 For past imprudences to make amends : 



To this point, therefore, I again repair. 

 As frequent repetition sometimes tends 



To impress a truth more strongly on the mind, 



And its observance to our practice bind. 



