94 THE WONDERFUL HOUSE THAT JACK HAS 



only enjoying the best of good things in childhood, 

 but are also storing up the most valuable bank account 

 for the future, a sound, healthy, body. Without 

 such capital, all the knowledge gained in school and 

 college may add little to our usefulness or enjoyment. 

 With it we can, all of the time, make the most of our 

 ability to do and to enjoy. 



History, as well as our own observation, proves the 

 wholesome effect of simple living. Perhaps one of 

 the most interesting examples is that of the Spartans 

 of ancient Greece. These people settled in a part 

 of Greece where they were largely outnumbered by 

 the native population, and, on this account, were 

 obliged to hold their position by superior strength and 

 skill in arms. Nevertheless, they were supreme in 

 that region for years, and even became the most 

 famous warriors among all the Greeks. This, his- 

 torians say, was largely because of their simple living, 

 which was compelled by law. " Black broth/' made 

 from vegetables similar to peas and beans, bread, and 

 fruit were among the principal articles of food which 

 their laws required all to eat. 



Another interesting example of the good effect of 

 simple living is related in the first chapter of the Book 

 of Daniel in the Bible. The famous king, Nebuchad- 

 nezzar, wished to train some young men to become 

 wise counsellors. So he directed one of his chief 

 officers to select several "in whom was no blemish, 

 but well-favored and skilful in all wisdom, and cunning 



