PHYSICAL TRAINING.
Believing in the truth of the above quotation, I address this chapter more particularly to the rising generation, but older heads may read it with profit. - Hitherto I have tried to avoid, as far as I could, consistently with the nature of this work, the too frequent use of the personal pronoun, not wishing to appear egotistical. In this chapter, however, I will adopt the conversational style, as it will be much easier thereby to convey my ideas on this important subject. Knowing that the mind is intimately associated with the body, my first advice to all who wish to become athletes is to avoid the use of intoxicating liquors, which have a tendency to weaken the intellect and enfeeble the body. There are plenty of wholesome beverages which will supply all you want in this respect, and at the same time leave the head clear and the body strong. Next, avoid the use of tobacco, not only on account of its uncleanliness, but also because the nicotine it contains is liable to poison the blood. Providence never intended that man should chew like a cow or smoke like a chimney. Again, avoid reading trashy literature, which has a pernicious effeciP on so many of our youth. There are plenty of journals that cater for the wants of young people, such as the "Boys' Own Paper," and similar periodicals, which have s healthy and elevating influence.
Above all, boys; avoid becoming a " dude." To sensible men and women there is nothing mare contemptible than these effeminate creatures, with their "snobbish" dress, hair parted 'in the centre, cane and eye-glass, and other external signs of lack of brains within.. So long as Providence gives you health and strength and the use of your limbs, no cane is required, and while you enjoy the blessing of sight you need not use an eye-glass. Endeavor to cultivate a spirit of self-reliance, be honest and truthful in dealing with your comrades. Don't " peach " on your associates, hut endeavor to observe the golden rule of " Doing unto others as you would they should do unto you." So much for the training of the mind. Now for the bodily training. Sleep on a hard bed, bathe regularly, eat plain, wholesome food, with plenty of fruit for dessert, avoid pastry and sweetmeats of all kinds, take plenty of open-air exercise daily when weather permits—walking up-hill will expand the lungs wonderfully. These directions, if faith fully observed, will enable you to become a healthy and vigorous man. Remember that the God-given Cordon of Brain is more valuable. thin Ribbons of the Bath or Garter.