Page:Caplin - Health and Beauty1864 - 037.png

Rh admiration of visitors, and she therefore pushes all the dressings of the child down on the arm, instead of allowing them to remain on the shoulder, which is their proper place; and when Baby is in full dress for the reception of company, this object is effected by means of charming red or blue ribbons passed under the sleeves and tied in a very pretty knot outside; conveying to a reflecting mind the idea of a lamb decorated with garlands before being sacrificed. Now, by this mode of procedure the baby's chest is exposed to cold, which its delicate organization is unable to bear, and cough or inflammation of the lungs may result; while at the same time the sleeves are made so tight round its little arms, and the operation of pinioning is so effectually performed, that the capillary circulation in the arms is obstructed, the poor infant's hands become blue and cold, and the nurse then wonders that her charge is so peevish. The legs also come in for their share of punishment,—a thick napkin being put on, totally preventing the kicking in which children so much delight, and which is so necessary for the strengthening of the muscles; while, to add to the misery of the little sufferer, this napkin is generally secured by pins, which, however carefully inserted, are very apt to tear its