Volume 1
Observations on the mortality and physical management of children / [John Roberton].
- John Roberton
- Date:
- 1827
Licence: Public Domain Mark
Credit: Observations on the mortality and physical management of children / [John Roberton]. Source: Wellcome Collection.
197/332 page 181
![is] ought to be established in various parts of a town, especially in the quarters inhabited by the poor. In Manchester, a large proportion of the working class never bathe; and such asdo, enjoy that advantage only in summer, when they lave themselves, not in crystal waters, but in the streams and canals which intersect the town, where it is doubtful whether they offend most against the cleanliness of their persons, or against public decency and morals. The art of swimming is a manly accomplish- ment, but one which has never been general in this country. In warm climates it is attained, frequently, as early as walking: and practised with amazing ease and expertness. The natives of the South Seas, in this respect, approach the state of amphibious animals. In the breakers that surround their islands, enough to appal the best European swimmer, they sport with se- curity and delight ; almost a match for the shark in his own element. No doubt in the calm and tepid waters of the Pacific Ocean, swimming is a fascinating exercise: but our own rivers and seas do not present the same inducements: for though in them it may be pursued in summer, it is even then barely pleasant, except to the young and vigorous. When however, it can be conveniently acquired, it is not to be neglected; and were 50) &](https://iiif.wellcomecollection.org/image/b33092837_0001_0197.jp2/full/800%2C/0/default.jpg)
