Although coition, if confined within certain limits, and under certain circumstances, may not be forbidden, this is not the case with masturbation. This latter indulgence has nothing legitimate in it; and nothing respectable--nothing which can palliate the veto of the physician. We are aware that onanism is not always necessarily followed by any inconvenience or danger; but, practically, this distinction disappears. But onanism, without regard to the mode, its frequence, or the individuals or circumstances under which it occurs, may always be considered an abuse, and, consequently, be earnestly proscribed. This view of the subject rests on two facts: one is fundamental, and applies to all individuals, without distinction of age, sex, or constitution; the other relates only to those who are addicted to onanism, before they are perfectly formed and constituted. The first of these motives is founded on this, that when this practice is not actually bad, it may constantly be suspected of becoming so. When onanism once commences, it is difficult to say how far it will extend. The taste for it, and the facility of indulging in it at night, and often in the day, cause this habit to be in a measure indulged in without limits. It becomes so soon imperious, and the despotism it exercises is so absolute, that we ought always to attempt its prevention. It should be regarded as a scourge, and be treated as such, without waiting for the bad effects which may result from it. This course is still more necessary, when children, young patients, and individuals who have not attained their growth, are interested. When maturity arrives, the evil is possible; before it happens, it is probable, and often certain. Farther: our remarks on precocious enjoyments prevent our recurring to the subject. Before speaking of the preservative means, a question presents itself. How can it be told when these means may be used? or, in other words, what are the signs which indicate that an individual is an onanist, or may become so? The suspicion may extend very far: in fact, every age is exposed to it, as onanism is possible from early life to old age: it, however, belongs to the age before puberty. A great many young girls and boys masturbate: hence, this maybe suspected of every one. This habit is less frequent, but it is far from being rare. The precautions to prevent onanism, and constant vigilance, should then be exercised constantly towards children and young people--in fact, towards all who are not of mature age. This rule is an important one; and cannot be neglected, without exposing one to danger and to deep regrets.