, fastened so as to prevent the
possibility of its being swallowed, and loosen all the clothes, until
the fit is over. Continue to soothe the mind, and instil happy thoughts
such as God gives every Christian the right to think, even in the worst
times of trial. Bring before the child's mind some cheery tales or
interesting objects. Allay all fears, and soothe all sorrows, as far as
possible.

If, however, the fits come on again, with blackening of the face, _do
not treat harshly_, but apply a cold towel along the spinal cord in the
morning in bed. This will soothe even unreasonable passion, and remove
stubbornness. Or if the fit is "on," put warmly to bed, and then apply
the cold towel. Medical aid, when available, should also be summoned.
If a faint comes on, that points to the need of a hot fomentation along
the spine instead of a cold towel. It is not difficult as a rule to
distinguish between the fit, with its frequent convulsive cramps and
blackening of the face, and the simple faint of exhaustion. In the
first the patient is all "strung up," and in the last the very
opposite.

Children's Sleep.--This most important matter of good sleep for the
child depends not only on health of body but on ease of the infant's
mind. It is wrong to treat the child otherwise than through the
understanding, where he is afraid, or in a strange place. Waking up,
after being put to sleep in a strange room, the little one may receive
a shock which may prevent sleep for the rest of the night. If he be
patiently soothed and matters explained, all will be well; but it is a
great cruelty to thrash or threaten in such a case. To frighten a child
with ghost stories, or "Bogies," IS TO COMMIT A SERIOUS CRIME. It is
not dealt with by the law, but it certainly deserves to be. Never bring
before a child's mind any _imaginary terrors_; rather teach it to
understand them in such a way as to remove any cause of fear. But do
not _force_ a child to examine an object which it fears, you may do
terrible damage before you can explain. All fears should be most
carefully dealt with, and no force employed; the little one who has no
imaginary terrors, and is kindly taught to think every fearful image at
bottom some innocent cloak or shadow, will sleep soundly and grow
healthy in mind.

When, however, ill-health is the cause of wakefulness, other means must
be used. Cold feet, and chilly feelings generally, frequently keep
children from sleep. Pack in s