Fig. 13.
FOOTNOTES:
[2] We have lately seen stockings for sale that were nearly square-toed, and these should obtain the preference in buying.
CHAPTER IV.
Prevention of Deformed Toes and Joint—New Forms of Sole—Eureka Last—True Standard of Taste—How Distorted Great Toe may be Straightened—Ancient and Medieval Foot apparel—Suggestions.
Let us next endeavour to ascertain what shall be done toward substituting an improved form of covering for the present false style, as a method of preventing distortion of the toes and the evils connected with it; and also inquire how far these deformities can be relieved by proper effort after they have been induced.
The shape of sole previously described and illustrated (Fig. 7) is taken to be as near the absolutely correct one as anything that can now be devised, and to be approximated and realized as soon in the future as possible. It is true that people should be capable of recognizing its correctness, and of adopting it practically, at once; and, doubtless, there are some who can conscientiously disregard the strong tendency to conformity with the prevailing false styles, and wear a boot or shoe which represents the right idea, or one as near to it as it is possible for them to obtain. All such are earnestly advised to take this course, and continue it, both for their own good, and as a means of developing a sentiment in favour of the change.
But there are other people, in larger numbers, who will not be persuaded to attempt so much of a change without some encouragement from popular sympathy. These must not only be taught to know what is right and wrong in the matter, but be led to adopt the right through gradually approximating steps, that do not vary so far from the style at any time prevalent as to be unpleasantly odd. The eye must become accustomed to different forms, and first to those that deviate least from the present fashion. Bearing this in mind, what is the best improvement that can be made generally acceptable?
Our principal care is the preservation of the shape of the great toe and inside joint, not forgetting that the little toe is also entitled to care; still, the great one is much the most important, and if only one can be properly attended to, the little one must wait its opportunity. Its deformity consists in being bent and twisted under, and though the pressure causing this may also develop corns, and injury of the toe joint, the joint itself is not forced out of place, nor is the bad effect so common, nor so serious as in the case of the large one.