406 THE FAT OF THE LAND 
and sunshine, making redder blood and more vig- 
orous development, to broader horizons and free- 
dom from abnormal conventions? Or does a close 
relation to primary things give a newness to 
mind and body which is granted only to those 
who apply in person ? 
Whatever the reason, it certainly pays to be 
country-bred. The cities draw to themselves the 
cream of these youngsters, which is only natural ; 
but the cities do not breed them, except as 
exotics. 
If the unborn would heed my advice, I would 
say, By all means be born in the country, — in 
Ohio if possible. But, if fortune does not prove 
as kind to you as I could wish, accept this other 
advice: Choose the country for your foster- 
mother; go to her for consolation and rejuvena- 
tion, take her bounty gratefully, rest on her fair 
bosom, and be content with the fat of the land. 
