mended by the medical profession, as the shoulders are by its use drawn backwards, the clavicles straightened, the chest enlarged; whilst, by the erect position it insures, the abdominal functions are normally performed. These results are effected by means of an elastic substance, arranged with a perfect regard to anatomical data, and, as a consequence, have never yet failed in their desired object.
The use of art is to give support where it is needed, and that the material of which it is constructed should act for the weaker muscles, and have as nearly as possible the contractibility of these organs which they are designed to assist. If the muscles are weak the support should be strong.
We have noticed the habit of standing on one leg as a frequent cause of distortion: to correct this, we have invented a Juvenile Rverso-tractor, or Monitor Bodice, which acts by reminding the child of that injudicious habit, and induces it to make an effort to discontinue the practice, as effectually as if constantly admonished by its parents.
Should the deviation have become serious, we introduce by various means different contrivances into the bodice, which invisibly support the failing side; the support being supplied without the injurious aid of springs or any unsightly mechanism. The object designed by the Reverso-tractor in these cases, as in every other of our inventions, is to aid nature by strengthening the muscles of the back, to keep the body erect, to preserve the flexibility of the spine and ribs, to enlarge the capacity of the thorax, and to insure the means of healthy development to the whole organization, and the ultimate strength, beauty, and symmetry of the body.
In all matters relating to the spine, we cannot too often repeat the old adage—prevention is better than cure; and hence, in all cases when there is the least tendency to stooping or roundness of the shoulders, aid should be immediately sought; and even this, trifling as it may appear, ought to be prevented. In our registered CHILD'S BODICE this has been provided for by placing the braces in such a manner, and making them of such materials, that they prevent the slightest tendency of the shoulders to depart from their normal position.
Another thing which we have secured in this bodice is, that it shall always fit. In the ordinary fastening, in the hurry of dressing, or through the carelessness of the servant, it is often drawn unevenly
