14 TO 34. ILLUSTRATIONS OF GYMNASTIC EXERCISES 35. SECTION OF THE HEART 36. SCHEME OF THE CIRCULATION 46 86 to 94 . 123 . 124 HEALTH. INTRODUCTORY. AFTER ages of apathy, the people of this country have begun to recognise the fact that the mortality amongst us is excessive, and should be diminished. We now see in sickness the cause as well as the fruit of poverty, and in a low tone of health the antecedent of sickness, and are convinced that the evil may be ameliorated. This conviction is no doubt a pledge of better things; for, if we would lessen disease and mortality, we must remove or lessen their causes, and to do so we must inquire into them and devise suitable remedies. We have now arrived at a period when it has become even fashionable to speak of the origin of the most contagious diseases as due to preventible causes, and may therefore be presumed to have passed the shifting sands of mere theory and speculation, and to have placed our feet on the firm ground of ascertained facts. Acting on this truth, great efforts are now put forth to remove such unsanitary conditions as may affect masses of the people, as defective drainage, accumulations of filth, overcrowded rooms, ill-ventilated workshops, and injurious trades, and to provide a supply of pure air and water, |