agent has been extensively experimented with, and the results have been in general eminently gratifying. Indeed these two sets of derangements approach each other very closely in their therapeutical indications. Sleep is the sine qua non in the cure of one, and the most impressive step towards the relief of the other. For melancholy, gloomy and depressing insanity, the best hope is found in the exhibition of a gentle and cheerful sympathy; in well-regulated occupation, active exercise, varied distractions by amusement, social games, religious services, music, lectures, dancing, and even theatrical entertainments. Thus the diseased portion of the brain is relieved from constant determination by a persevering deviation to other parts, and an invigorating exercise of the whole. HYGIENE. HE Philosophy of health is a topic which should THE surely interest all classes of readers. Our physical well-being depends upon an infinite variety of contingencies, some of which seem to be entirely beyond our control; others are absolutely at our disposal, and arrangement; while a third, and very numerous class, submit themselves to be modified in some measure, or may be evaded in greater or less degree. How important is it that these should all be carefully studied, and correctly appreciated! With what eagerness should we press to learn the lessons of experience, and avail ourselves of the lights of science, that we may know how to shun or counteract the hostile agencies, and invite and foster the more genial and friendly influences that surround us. It would scarcely be proper to affirm that the consideration of this series of subjects has been neglected; but they certainly have failed, hitherto, to obtain the kind and degree of attention to which they are so obviously entitled. Hygiene, practically the science of prevention, whose pure and elevated object is the extinction of disease, has had, until recently, no separate functionary in our social institutions, no definite place in the progress of our advancing civilization. And even now, her voice is feebly uttered, scarcely listened to, and almost void of authority. We have no professors of hygiene in our colleges; our boards of health are clothed with little power, and their recommendations destitute of influence, except in times of occasional panic, or when directed against nuisances palpably offensive. No place of honor or profit is assigned by the body politic to the philanthropist who volunteers his services in this department. Commissions are appointed, and report; associations organize themselves, and publish documents, and present memorials; registers are made, facts recorded, and principles clearly deduced; yet all with so little effect, that no single great step has anywhere been taken in the right direction. It is difficult to make definite alterations in the fixed face of things; to open parks amidst the dense masses of brick and stone that constitute our cities; to tunnel with sewers the earth encumbered with the thick foundations of thronged edifices; to raze the crowded blocks which |