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TIIE RIGHT USE OF STIMULANTS.
207
purpose to that of stimulating to further exertion—
viz., as a means of calling forth the only possible
remedy for over-exertion, repose—may be of great value.
If, therefore, the brandy-flask be carried at all, the
only safe time to use it would be at the journey’s end,
when in some cases it might be useful; though, as a
general rule, I believe that it is better not to use it
even then, for the sleep obtained by its means is but a
feverish slumber, followed by headache and depression
on awakening.
The reader must not suppose that I am preaching a
teetotal homily; for while convinced that the habitual
use of any artificial stimulant, even of tea and coffee,
when used so regularly as to engender a craving for
it, is pernicious, I believe that the occasional moderate
enjoyment of wine, simply as a matter of indulgence
(sensual indulgence if you will, for we are sensual
animals as well as moral and intellectual beings, and
can gain nothing by denying it), is permissible, and,
perhaps, beneficial; for the necessities of business and
the general competition for self-advancement are apt
to render us more cool and calculating than is healthful
for the mind, and a moderate amount of convivial
generosity may be an useful moral medicine; an
alterative much to be desired.
Instead of suffering any illness or serious lassitude, I
found upon awakening no worse symptoms than a
ravenous appetite, the remedy for which was provided in the
homely fare remaining on the rough plank by the
bedside. After disposing of this, and thanking the good
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