It is not possible to estimate statistically just how much length of days is enhanced by physical exercises, but it is feasible to establish two propositions: (1) That judicious activities of the body tend to maintain and increase its efficiency, and (2) That the hurtful effects of violent athletic competitions are popularly overrated.
It would be most agreeable to me to consider the first of these, and drawing from history and experience, illustrate amply what few will be disposed to deny. Concerning the second there may be differences of opinion, and here it is well to apply the test of carefully marshalled facts and suffer inferences to evolve themselves. I hope to escape the rôle of advocate, but propose reviewing such meagre data as I have been able as yet to collect, and deduce therefrom only warrantable conclusions. My study so far is most imperfect, but my hope is to