these matters, which are in my mind far more important to the
schoolroom than half the trashy accomplishments, so-called, which
are expected to be known by governesses. But are they bought?
Are they even to be bought, from most country booksellers? Ah,
for a little knowledge of the laws to the neglect of which is
owing so much fearful disease, which, if it does not produce
immediate death, too often leaves the constitution impaired for
years to come. Ah the waste of health and strength in the young;
the waste, too, of anxiety and misery in those who love and tend
them. How much of it might be saved by a little rational
education in those laws of nature which are the will of God about
the welfare of our bodies, and which, therefore, we are as much
bound to know and to obey, as we are bound to know and obey the
spiritual laws whereon depends the welfare of our souls.

Pardon me, ladies, if I have given a moment's pain to anyone here:
but I appeal to every medical man in the room whether I have not
spoken the truth; and having such an opportunity as this, I felt
that I must speak for the sake of children, and of women likewise,
or else for ever hereafter hold my peace.

Let me pass on from this painful subject--for painful it has been
to me for many years--to a question of intellectual thrift--by
which I mean just now thrift of words; thrift of truth; restraint
of the tongue; accuracy and modesty in statement.

Mothers complain to me that girls are apt to be--not intentionally
untruthful--but exaggerative, prejudiced, incorrect, in repeating
a conversation or describing an event; and that from this fault
arise, as is to be expected, misunderstandings, quarrels, rumours,