xv SPECIAL USES OF MUSCLES 217 



muscles and the vocal cords lose their power to respond 

 to nerve stimuli, and the voice becomes harsh and dis- 

 agreeable. 



A sweet, pleasant, melodious voice under perfect control 

 is a possession that should be as highly prized as good per- 

 sonal appearance. Much can be done to secure such a 

 voice by regular, systematic training and proper care, if 

 begun in early childhood. A celebrated singer, when 

 asked why he practiced so regularly, said, " If I neglect 

 to practice one day, I notice it ; if for two days, my 

 friends notice it; and if for three days, the public notice 

 it." 



SUMMARY OF THE MAIN POINTS 



1. The bones serve as levers for the skeletal muscles in all 

 movements. There are three classes of levers, all of which 

 occur in the body. 



2. Standing involves the use of a large number of muscles 

 that must be delicately adjusted in order to maintain the body 

 erect. 



3. The nerves play an important part in standing. All 

 the muscles must be stimulated just enough to maintain a 

 balance. 



4. Walking is an act of falling forward and catching one's 

 self. It brings into play many of the large muscles, and for 

 that reason it is a very valuable exercise. 



5. Running is quite like walking except that the body is 

 inclined more, both feet are never on the ground at the same 

 time, and the onward movement is usually more rapid. 



6. There are many flat muscles in the head and face which 

 are used in expressing feelings of the mind. They are called 

 muscles of expression. 



