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variety of reproduction which is most interesting, is that of the human
species, and is called _viviparous generation_. It includes the
functions of copulation, fecundation, gestation, parturition, and
lactation.
For the full and perfect development of mankind, both mental and
physical chastity is necessary. The health demands abstinence from
unlawful intercourse. Therefore children should not be allowed to read
impure works of fiction, which tend to inflame the mind and excite the
passions. Only in total abstinence from illicit pleasures is there moral
safety and health, while integrity, peace, and happiness, are the
conscious rewards of virtue. Impurity travels downward with
intemperance, obscenity, and corrupting diseases, to degradation and
death. A dissolute, licentious, free-and-easy life is filled with the
dregs of human suffering, iniquity, and despair. The penalties which
follow a violation of the law of chastity are found to be severe and
swiftly retributive.
[Illustration: Fig. 100.
Male]
[Illustration: Fig. 101.
Female]
[Illustration: Fig. 102.
Outline of the Female Urinary and
Generative Organs.]
The union of the sexes in holy matrimony is a law of nature finding
sanction in both morals and legislation. Even some of the lower animals
unite in this union for life, and instinctively observe the law of
conjugal fidelity with a consistency which might put to blush other
animals more highly endowed. It is important to discuss this subject and
understand our social evils, as well as the unnatural desires of the
sexes, which must be controlled or they lead to ruin. Sexual
propensities are possessed by all, and they must be held in abeyance,
until they are exercised for legitimate purposes. Hence parents ought to
understand the value of mental and physical labor to elevate and
strengthen the intellectual and moral faculties of their children, to
develop the muscular system and direct the energies of the blood into
healthful channels. Vigorous employment of mind and body engrosses the
vital energies and diverts them from undue excitement of the sexual
desires.
[Illustration: Fig. 103.
Outline of the Male Reproductive Organs.]
Sexual generation by pairing individuals is the most economical mode of
propagating the species. The lower orders of animals possess wonderful
multiplicative powers and their faculty for reproduction is offset by
various destructive forces. The increased ability for self-
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