by the great Harvey, who found all the organs in so sound a condition that, but for intemperance and inactivity, he would in all probability have lived many years longer. Cornaro, on the other hand, had led a free life up to 40 years of age, when his health was so reduced that he was assured that, if he continued the same courses, he could not live many months, but that, by strict attention to moderation in diet and by careful regimen, he might regain sound health. He followed this advice faithfully; and so well did it succeed with him, that, instead of a few months, he lived to the age of 104 in full enjoyment of all his faculties. Few persons may be able to follow out the rigid example of his life, nor would it often be desirable; but it is to all a strong lesson of the good effects of care and temperance, even when the body had become enfeebled by disease. I cannot avoid quoting a part of this amiable philosopher's account of himself:-" But some men object that a long life is no desirable thing, because that, after one is over 65 years old, all the time we live after is rather death than life. But these err greatly, as I will show by myself, recounting the delights and pleasures in this age of 83 which now I take, and which are such that men generally account me happy. I am continually in health, and I am so nimble that I can easily get on horseback without the advantage of the ground, and sometimes I go up high stairs and hills on foot. Then I am ever cheerful, merry, and well contented-free from all troubles and troublesome thoughts, in whose place joy and peace have taken up their standing in my heart. I am not weary of life, which I pass with great delight. I confer often with worthy men excelling in wit, learning, behaviour, and other virtues. When I cannot have their company, I give myself to the reading of some learned book, and afterwards to writing, making it my aim in all things how I may help others to the fullest of my power." He goes on to state that he enjoys travelling to seek out the beauties of nature and the choicest works of art:"Neither is this my pleasure made less by the decaying dulness of my senses, which are all in their perfect vigour. To change my bed troubles me notI sleep well and quietly anywhere, and my dreams are fair and pleasant." And thus might it be with many -nay, I believe with most men, if in place of being the slaves of their senses and passions, and the dupes of avarice and ignorance, they enjoyed life with moderation, submitted to the restraints of prudence, and allowed the counsels of learning and experience to guide their daily course. 22, MANCHESTER SQUARE; |