1 191
2 XVI.
3 But, while 1 thus commend the bracing air,
4 I must enjoin, in terms not less emphatic,
5 That you avoid all drafts ; for they prepare
6 The way, and bring on pains rheumatic,
7 Which to remove may baffle all your care,
8 And leave, for years, those twinges so erratic :
9 Air is of use, but drafts are dangerous things,
10 And spare not peasants, merchants, bankers, kings.
11 XVII.
12 Also avoid, as you would shun the pest,
13 Air that is foul, no matter how created ;
14 In crowded rooms be not a frequent guest,
15 Nor sit for hours with wine or grog elated ;
16 Foul-air and drinking will disturb your rest,
17 And bring on pains not easily abated ;
18 And should you feel such fumes affect your brain,
19 Rush to fresh-air to make you well again.
20 XVIII.
21 Cleanliness is next to Godliness, says Paul ;
22 And common-sense corroborates his saying ;
23 Some wash but seldom, others not all —
24 Yet, washing is as needful, oft, as praying :
25 If once you into filthy habits fall,
26 You are from prudence and religion straying ;
27 Keep pure your body by such free ablutions
28 As may preserve you from unclean pollutions.
29 XIX.
30 Neglect not bathing, as too many do,
31 For, thereby, you may ward off many an ill ;
32 Sometimes a warm-bath may your strength renew ;
33 But, of the cold, be sure to take your fill.
34 The Easterns, old and young, this course pursue,
35 Nor shun the water though it should be chill ;
36 Hence, such diseases as fell gout and stone,
37 To Indians and to Persians are scarce known.