HEALTH. 259 



the head hanging down, or the shoulders brought 

 forwards. They should be encouraged to take 

 light exercises suited to their strength, and tending 

 to make the limbs agile and supple, and prepare 

 them for labour. Nothing is worse than to sit 

 moping and idle. If we do so, we lose our liveli- 

 ness and spirits, become dull and stupid, and never 

 possess that charm which cheerfulness gives to 

 ourselves and to others. 



But beauty does not consist alone in bodily per- 

 fections. It is in vain that we are handsome or 

 well shaped, if our mind and disposition be not 

 properly cultivated. Our passions and tempers 

 require particular care. If we are quarrelsome, 

 revengeful, or obstinate, we are constantly doing 

 some wickedness, and making ourselves and our 

 friends unhappy. Our countenance is deprived 

 of its delightful expression, our hearts are full 

 of bad thoughts, and nobody loves us. 



In early life also, we should be very attentive 

 to the instructions which are given to us, for our 

 minds are then peculiarly suited to receive in- 

 struction. If we suffer this time to pass away in 

 idleness and indifference, we shall never cease to 

 regret it, because in after life we shall neither have 

 time nor inclination to atone for our foolishness. 



However perfect the body and mind may be, 

 we are useless to ourselves and to others without 

 health. This is the greatest blessing that we can 

 enjoy, for without it neither riches, nor wisdom, 

 nor goodness can avail us. How needful is it, 



