The attention of those who regard their own foot-comfort is earnestly directed to the points and reasoning presented in this chapter. Just as earnestly it is desired that those whose principal aim in dressing the foot is its beauty, elegance, and perfection of form, should give a thorough consideration to what has been said. Both classes will easily see that, in order to gain the object sought, there must be a reform in the shape and style of the foot’s covering. The nature of that improvement is already partially shown—that is, as far as the toes are concerned—and will be shown fully in what is to follow. The cuts below, showing some of the worst deformities of the forward part of the foot, and adding the force of illustration to what has been said, are an appropriate conclusion to this chapter. It will do no harm to contrast them with Fig. 8 and Fig. 3, previously given. [Illustration: FIG. 12.] [Illustration: FIG. 13.] FOOTNOTES: [2] We have lately seen stockings for sale that were nearly square-toed, and these should obtain the preference in buying. CHAPTER IV. Prevention of Deformed Toes and Joint—New Forms of Sole—Eureka Last—True Standard of Taste—How Distorted Great Toe may be Straightened—Ancient and Medieval Foot apparel—Suggestions. Let us next endeavour to ascertain what shall be done toward substituting an improved form of covering for the present false style, as a method of _preventing_ distortion of the toes and the evils connected with it; and also inquire how far these deformities can be relieved by proper effort after they have been induced. The shape of sole previously described and illustrated (Fig. 7) is taken to be as near the absolutely correct one as anything that can now be devised, and to be approximated and realized as soon in the future as possible. It is true that people should be capable of recognizing its correctness, and of adopting it practically, at once; and, doubtless, there are some who can conscientiously disregard the strong tendency to conformity with the prevailing false styles, and wear a boot or shoe which represents the right idea, or one as near to it as it is possible for them to obtain. All such are earnestly advised to take this course, and continue it, both for their own good, and as a means of developing a sentiment in favour of the change. But there are other people, in larger numbers, who will not be persuaded to attempt so much of a change without some encouragement from popular sympathy. These must not only be taught to know what is right and wrong in the matter, but be led to adopt the right through gradually approximating steps, that do not vary so far from the style at any time prevalent as to be unpleasantly _odd_. The eye must become accustomed to different forms, and first to those that deviate least from the present fashion. Bearing this in mind, what is the best improvement that can be made generally acceptable?