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8 generally acknowledged, and particularly in all civilized countries; and when it is united with other accomplishments that tend to render females amiable, it contributes in no small degree to give them importance and influence, to polish the manners of society, and to contribute to its order and happiness.

And here we may be permitted to define what we mean by a beautiful woman, since much of the value of our suggestions will depend upon our having a correct standard or idea of beauty, and a proper appreciation of the manner in which a prompt obedience to the laws of health will enable everyone to approximate to that standard. For although the individual type of beauty must always be in the grace and the expression, and be therefore innate, still it depends neither upon the size nor temperament of the possessor: the stature may be tall, or even short; the eyes, hair, and complexion, either fair or dark; the body plump or slim; and yet the person may be exceedingly beautiful. What we require in a beautiful woman is, that the head should be com­pact and well rounded, and should not appear too large; the forehead white, smooth, and open, with the hair receding from it. The hair should