This is, in a general way, to effect the theoretical training. We hope to find opportunity to give members of the class at least a little practice: First, in their own homes or circle of friends; second, possibly in the woman’s ward of the city hospital, located near us; third, in private families desirous of forwarding our work; or fourth, among the destitute poor really in need of such services. Our work is to commence with the simpler and more commonly occurring complaints of this section, as colds, accidents that happen often, chills and fever, etc.
I should like to write more fully of our plans as they relate to other industrial matters, but space forbids. We are thoroughly convinced, however, that in this matter of practical teaching, something more effective than “tracts” is required to make sure of accomplishing any great amount of good. We must come to closer quarters in this struggle; it must be made a hand-to-hand conflict. Along our part of the line we should have no fears of success if we could have placed at our disposal the appliances really needed for the work. In the training of nurses, we need and must have a good manikin, a human skeleton, some forms or models of different organs of the human body, etc., etc. Who will come forward and help us to them?
A. J. Steele,
Le Moyne Normal Institute, Memphis, Tenn.
The treatment which preserves health is the best treatment for its recovery. We should lead our pupils to see that wholesome diet eaten at proper hours, and sufficient sleep taken at the time which God appointed for sleep, will impart more physical vigor than any other two agencies; and that a disregard for them is a fruitful source of much sickness, especially among colored people.
Sunlight and pure air are important factors in making the sick well, and keeping the well from being sick. The temperance pledge is also a cheap and safe medicine. A knowledge of the chemistry of food, of digestion, circulation and respiration is important, and may be taught to comparatively young pupils. Nature, like a sensible dame, resents an insult; and sickness is the punishment she imposes to avenge her injuries. Nor will punishment cease until reparation is made.
Amos W. Farnham,
Avery Institute, Charleston, S. C.
We are happy to make mention, which is all it would be proper for us to do in this place, of the book for boys written by Gen. O. O. Howard. Our friends are so largely his friends, that many of them will want to read “Donald’s School Days,” published by Lee & Shepard, of Boston.