4. Let them diminish their Quantity of Drink. The best for them in
general is Water, [19] with a fourth or third Part of white Wine. Too
great a Quantity of Liquids at this time prevents the Stomach from
recovering its Tone and Strength; impairs Digestion; keeps up Weakness;
increases the Tendency to a Swelling of the Legs; sometimes even
occasions a slow Fever; and throws back the Person recovering into a
languid State.
[19] We have known many who had an Aversion to Water, and with whom, on
that very Account, it might probably agree less, find Water very
grateful, in which a thoroughly baked and hot, not burnt, Slice of
Bread had been infused, untill it attained the Colour of fine clear
Small-beer, or light Amber coloured Beer, and we never saw any
Inconvenience result from it. Doubtless pure, untoasted elemental
Water may be preferable for those who like, and have been
accustomed to it. _K._
5. Let them go abroad as often as they are able, whether on Foot, in a
Carriage, or on Horseback. This last Exercise is the healthiest of all,
and three fourths of the labouring People in this Country, who have it
in their Power to procure it without Expense, are in the wrong to
neglect it. They, who would practice it, should mount before their
principal Meal, which should be about Noon, and never ride after it.
Exercise taken before a Meal strengthens the Organs of Digestion, which
is promoted by it. If the Exercise is taken soon after the Meal, it
impairs it.
6. As People in this State are seldom quite as well towards Night, in
the Evening they should take very little Food. Their Sleep will be the
less disturbed for this, and repair them the more, and sooner.