improper allusion to their ten, many of those fastidious ladies who now
eagerly devour the vulgarities of Dumas, and the double-entendres of
Bulwer, and even converse with gentlemen about their contents, would
discountenance or condemn it as improper. _Shame on novel-reading women_;
for they cannot have pure minds or unsullied feelings but Cupid and the
beaux, and waking of dreams of love, are fast consuming their health and
virtue.

6. THEATER-GOING.--Theaters and theatrical dancing, also inflame the
passions, and are "the wide gate" of "the broad road" of moral impurity.
Fashionable music is another, especially the verses set to it, being mostly
love-sick ditties, or sentimental odes, breathing this tender passion in
its most melting and bewitching strains. Improper prints often do immense
injury in this respect, as do also balls, parties, annuals, newspaper
articles, exceptional works, etc.

7. THE CONCLUSION OF THE WHOLE MATTER.--Stop for one moment and think for
yourself and you will be convinced that the sentiment herein announced is
for your good and the benefit of all mankind.

[Illustration]

{406}

Puberty, Virility and Hygienic Laws.

[Illustration]

1. WHAT IS PUBERTY?--The definition is explained in another portion of this
book, but it should be understood that it is not a prompt or immediate
change; it is a slow extending growth and may extend for many years. The
ripening of physical powers do not take place when the first signs of
puberty appear.

2. PROPER AGE.--The proper age for puberty should vary from twelve to
eighteen years. As a general rule, in the more vigorous and the more
addicted to athletic exercise or out-door life, this change is slower in
making its approach.

3. HYGIENIC ATTENTION.--Youths at this period should receive special
private attention. They should be taught the purpose of the sexual organs
and the proper hygienic laws that govern them, and they should also be
taught to rise in the morning and not to lie in bed after waking up,
because it is largely owing to this habit that the secret vice is
contracted. One of the common causes of premature excitement in many boys
is a tight foreskin. It may cause much evil and ought always to be
remedied. Ill-fitting garments often cause much irritation in children and
produce unnatural passions. It is best to have boys sleep in separate beds
and not have them sleep together if it can be avoided. {407}

4. PROPER INFLUENCE.--Ever