mented liquors, is, to
_stimulate the nervous system and quicken the circulation_. In infancy
and childhood, the circulation is rapid, and easily excited; and the
nervous system is strongly acted upon, even by the slightest external
impressions. Hence slight causes of irritation readily excite febrile
and convulsive disorders. In youth, the natural tendency of the
constitution is still to excitement; and consequently, as a general
rule, the stimulus of fermented liquors is injurious."

These remarks show, that parents, who find that stimulating drinks are
not injurious to themselves, may mistake in inferring, from this, that
they will not be injurious to their children.

Dr. Combe continues thus: "In mature age, when digestion is good and the
system in full vigor, if the mode of life be not too exhausting, the
nervous functions and general circulation are in their best condition,
and require no stimulus for their support. The bodily energy is then
easily sustained, by nutritious food and a regular regimen, and
consequently artificial excitement only increases the wasting of the
natural strength. In old age, when the powers of life begin to fail,
moderate stimulus may be used with evident advantage."

It may be asked, in this connection, why the stimulus of animal food is
not to be regarded in the same light, as that of stimulating drinks. In
reply, a very essential difference may be pointed out. Animal food
furnishes nutriment to the organs which it stimulates, but stimulating
drinks excite the organs to quickened action, without affording any
nourishment.

It has been supposed, by some, that tea and coffee have, at least, a
degree of nourishing power. But it is proved, that it is the milk and
sugar, and not the main portion of the drink, which imparts the
nourishment. Tea has not one particle of nourishing properties; and what
little exists in the coffee-berry, is lost by roasting it in the usual
mode. All that these articles do, is simply _to stimulate, without
nourishing_.

It is very common, especially in schools, for children to form a habit
of drinking freely of cold water. This is a debilitating habit, and
should be corrected. Very often, chewing a bit of cracker will stop a
craving for drink, better than taking water; and when teachers are
troubled with very thirsty scholars, they should direct them to this
remedy. A person who exercises but little, requires no drink, between
meals, for health; and the cra