THE ART OF SWIMMING.
_ primary object of this work is the extension of a knowledge of swimming, with a view to the preserv*tion of life from drowning.
Many persons never think of the value of swimming, until by some unforeseen accident they are precipitated into the water; then instantly and unpleasantly they are effectually con vinced of the importance of the art.
To know how to swim is very necessary in a country like Canada, where there is so much boating, and where so many young persons, inexperienced in the handling of boats, are to be found at any time during the summer season upon the water.
Water employments, water amusements, and water accidents, all tell in the same direction ; all point to the urgent necessity there exists for a more extended knowledge of the art of swimming.
As swimming is an art, it has laws and rules the same as any other gymnastic exercise, which, if properly understood, will enable the novice to sustain his body, and to navigate in the water at pleasure.
The author proposes to advert to those rules, and so to simplify them by words and illustrations as to render the learner all the book assistance possible, which, if faithfully followed, will eventually lead to his becoming a good and successful swimmer. • Some people have an idea that in order to effect a rescue a person should he very strong, and above the ordinary size. The real truth of the matter is, large men stand like pillars and move like oxen. Some of the men whom, under Providence, I have been enabled to rescue from drowning, were 'much larger and heavier than myself. Skill and dexterity are the primary essentials in life-saving.