gthened.

23. "EXERCISE should be sufficient and of such a character as will bring
into action gently every muscle of the body; but must particularly develop
the muscles of the trunk, abdomen and groin, that are specially called into
action in labor. Exercise, taken faithfully and systematically, more than
any other means assists assimilative processes and stimulates the organs of
excretion to healthy action.

24. "BATHING MUST BE FREQUENT and regular. Unless in special conditions the
best results are obtained from tepid or cold bathing, which invigorates the
system and overcomes nervousness. The sitz-bath is the best therapeutic and
hygienic measure within the reach of the pregnant woman.

"Therefore, to establish conditions which will overcome many previous
infractions of law, _dress_ naturally and physiologically; _live_ much of
the time _out of doors_; have _abundance_ of _fresh air_ in the house; let
_exercise_ be _sufficient_ and _systematic_; pursue a _diet of fruit_, rice
and vegetables; _regular rest_ must be faithfully taken; _abstain_ from the
sexual relation. To those who will commit themselves to this course of
life, patiently and persistently carrying it out through the period of
gestation, the possibilities of attaining a healthy, natural, painless
parturition will be remarkably increased. {299}

25. "IF THE FIRST EXPERIMENT should not result in a painless labor, it
without doubt will prove the beginning of sound health. Persisted in
through years of married life, the ultimate result will be more and more
closely approximated, while there will be less danger of diseases after
childbirth and better and more vigorous children will be produced.

"Then pregnancy by every true woman will be desired, and instead of being a
period of disease, suffering and direful forebodings, will become a period
of health, exalted pleasure and holiest anticipations. Motherhood will be
deemed the choicest of earth's blessings; women will rejoice in a glad
maternity and for any self-denial will be compensated by healthy, happy,
buoyant, grateful children."

[Illustration]

{300} [Illustration: A HAPPY MOTHER.]

{301}

Solemn Lessons for Parents.

[Illustration: JOAN OF ARC.]

1. EXCESSIVE PLEASURES AND PAINS.--A woman during her time of pregnancy
should of all women be most carefully tended, and kept from violent and
excessive pleasures and pains; and at that time she should cultivate
gentleness, benevolence and kin