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CHAP. XIV.] the great toe both in the stocking and in the boot.

The chief points of importance that should be observed both by makers and by buyers of boots are that—

The inner margin should be straight to the big toe.

The toe should be of a natural breadth.

The heels should be broad, low, and under the natural heel.

The waist of the sole, answering to the arch of the foot, should possess a certain amount of elasticity.

Now, as we are unfortunately dependent on tradespeople, who for the most part are lamentably ignorant of even the first principles of physiology, for the supply of boots and shoes, there is much difficulty in obtaining those that are really fit to wear, and it was only after some search that I succeeded in finding a firm who were in the habit of producing healthy boots for adults, and would agree to make boots and shoes suitable for children on the principles I advocate, and under my direction in cases of difficulty.

After what I have said and am about to say-concerning children, it will be evident that it is even more important for them than for adults that their feet should be properly clad, yet whenever I have spoken to a bootmaker on the subject, he has shown me certain abominations always kept in stock, and the type of which must be familiar to every one, and has said, "We very rarely make