66 OUR BODIES AND HOW WE LIVE 



of a generation ago. Naval experts are making a scientific 

 study of every detail which may insure the best results. 

 Experiments show that in skill and accuracy of movement, 

 with power to endure, the man behind the gun who has 

 taken no alcohol has an advantage over one who has. 



On England's battle ships supplies of oatmeal and water 

 placed in different parts of the ship take the place of grog 

 when the fight is on. A few years ago every English sailor 

 had his double ration of rum during battle to " fortify " him 

 for his work. 



For these many years no daily rations of alcoholic liquor 

 of any kind have been served to the men on board of 

 American men of war. 



During the recent war with Spain no better work was 

 ever done than by our gunners who fought at Manila and 

 Santiago. And yet the accuracy of the firing of the great 

 guns in these two battles was accomplished by men who 

 were served freely with oatmeal and water instead of the 

 old-fashioned double ration of grog. A cool, clear head and 

 a steady hand are necessary for accurate firing. A modern 

 naval commander cannot afford to take chances with gun- 

 ners who lack absolute control over themselves through 

 indulgence in rations of strong liquor. 



97. Effect of Alcohol and Tobacco on Physical Develop- 

 ment. The main object of physical exercise is to keep 

 our bodies in such a condition that the average amount of 

 working power can be utilized at any time without harm 

 to the bodily health. To keep up this high standard of 

 physical power and endurance we must observe what have 

 been proved to be the essentials to health. 



One essential rule for securing and keeping perfect 

 health is never to drink alcoholic liquors or to use tobacco. 



