4037. Reading aloud, speaking, and particularly singing, affords a healthful exercise; while wind-instruments are injurious.
4038. To young ladies the habit of reading aloud has much to recommend it.
4039. As mere exercise, it is highly beneficial on account of the strength and vigor which it confers on the chest and lungs; while the mental pleasure derived therefrom is one of the most delightful that can adorn the family circle.
4040. Gathered around the winter's fire, or evening lamp, what could be more cheerful for the aged and infirm, what more instructive to the younger branches, or more exemplary to the careless, than the reading aloud of some entertaining author.
4041. Were females of all ranks to adopt the practice more than they do at present, they would bind to their homes many who are disposed to go in search of unworthy enjoyments, and would add another chain of delightful associations, wherewith to attach the young to the family hearth.