The law, which is the conservator of health as well as of morals and of peace, compels every house to have bathtubs in proportion to the number of people living therein; and bathing is practically made compulsory. Public baths in which, as in the days of the ancient Romans, men meet for social converse and the transaction of business, are maintained in every town of any importance; medicated and electrified plunges and showers being under the management of experts in hydropathic sanitation.
In the houses of the wealthy, and in the clubs, the opera is "wired on," just as hot and cold water, warm and cold air, electricity, and other conveniences are in the same way "laid on." In fact, the celebrated preachers are heard by those who prefer to stay at home; every one may sit in his or her chair and get the utterances of the most distinguished orators as well as of the most celebrated singers and musicians.
As noted under another head, law-givers and public officials listen to and address their confrères, their colleagues and their constituents, at all times and in all places; from their homes, from public baths and from public conveyances; so that the Senator from Oregon may address at
