Gymnastic Sctence. 177 
fort and re-establishes the centre of gravity ; are the princi- 
pal muscular actions which this exercise require. The pu- 
pils in the court and stadium, then applied the theoretic prin- 
ciples which they had just learned, and here the committee 
witnessed the utility of the gymnastic method. They saw 
with what precision all the various exercises were perform- 
ed ; as well those that required great rapidity of motion as 
those that depend on firmness and strength. Many among 
them obtained 350, 440, and 550 degrees of the free dyna- 
mometer, for it is by this instrument that Amoros calculates 
the progressive developements of their muscular powers. 
We have seen feeble and timid men acquire in a short time, 
by gymnastic exercises, very considerable strength and 
boldness, and their moral energy rise in proportion to the 
increase of their physical strength. From the stadium the 
pupils proceeded to the enclosure where the machines were 
erected, and where they performed the exercises of running 
over inclined planes, clearing barriers, climbing masts, walk- 
ing upon unstable beams, mounting ladders 36 feet high and 
slipping down, ascending heights by means of ropes and 
poles, and by men so suspended as to serve as ladders, aud 
descending again with the greatest facility. The commis- 
sioners, surprised at the strength, suppleness, agility, and ad- 
dress of the pupils testified their satisfaction, and acknow- 
ledged the utility of the exercises. These were terminated 
by their vaulting over wooden horses and also over living 
ones, and by the conquerors receiving the prizes due to their 
superior skill. 
The design of this instructor is not merely to regulate and 
perfect the physical powers of his pupils, but to teach and 
dispose them to lend assistance to the weak, and to aid their 
fellow-creatures when in danger. ‘Those who first witness 
these exercises, are in constant fear for the safety of the pu- 
pils. But their elementary lessons accustom them gradually 
to measure their force and skill; they are able by proceed- 
ing from simple to compound exercises, to acquire solid in- 
struction. If accidents occur they arise evidently from dis- 
obedience, presumption, or forgetfulness of principles so 
well explained and applied in this establishment. Every 
needful precaution is taken to secure the pupils from acci- 
dent, A thick bed of sand is spread at the foot of each 
machine, nets are extended round the masts, and the less 
skilful pupils are supported by belts, while their motions are 
Vou. X.—No. 1. 23 
