The Prolongation of Life. By B. E. Dudgeon, M.D. (Chatto
and Windus. 35. 6d.)—We have read not a few books on this subject, one of the first being by Mr. Mortimer Collins, who, un- happily, did not add example to precept. As one of his methods was to do the day's work at night, this is hardly surprising. Dr. Dudgeon, on the oontrary, is a living proof that there is some- thing in what he says. After his introduction, he passes to "Exercise," and highly praises golf, which is indeed the ideal game for old men. Thence he goes on to "Food," and this is very smartly written. It is possible, says Dr. Dudgeon, in referring to sundry books on diet, to be both "a fool and a physician" at forty. And it seems to us eminently sensible. He has a good word for pastry, and for sugar,—saccharine may be positively harmful. In " Drink " he pronounces against alcohol. To smoking he is not favourable but not hostile. Do not take to it and do not leave it off, unless you see very good reason. Hero he may be right, but there is one thing against which we must protest. He decides against beards, and even goes as far as to say that they are injurious to health Many people find them an invaluable protection to the throat and lungs. The argument from appearance is really too foolish. "how would Wellington and Nelson look if disfigured by beards ?" he asks. How would Shakespeare look without one ? we may ask in return. And what should we think of the traditional portrait of the Saviour if it lacked the beard?
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