[3] There is no objection to this form in particular cases where it is desired to go to an extreme in straightening the toe, provided that side of the separator next the small toes be kept straight, and the increase of width made to throw the great one still farther inward. It may be done by filing off the forward corner of the upright portion till its two sides are separated nearly back to the opposite corner, when a wedge of leather can be inserted to keep them apart. There must be plenty of room in the upper, or the pressure of such a separator may create soreness at the nail. CHAPTER V. Flattened Condition of the Arch—Beauty of one that is Natural—Nature and Purpose of its Construction—How it Becomes Broken Down—Lengthening of the Foot—Lack of Development—Means of Improvement—Lasts for Flat Feet—Transverse Arch. Another of the prominent disfigurements of the foot is that commonly known as _flat-foot_, which is seen where the arch of the instep is in a broken-down or flattened condition. This deformity has, if possible, a more awkward and ungraceful effect than that caused by the unnatural position of the toes and joints; though there may be less painful effects attending it than are attached to the latter. The worst trouble accompanying this kind of disfigurement is the _weakness_ which is attendant upon it, and which is sometimes so extreme as to interfere seriously with walking for any great distance, or standing long at a time; making itself felt at various periods, as there happens to be a demand for strength and activity. It is almost needless to say how unnatural is such a condition. Children are seldom subject to it, except when connected with weak ankles. Even the children of parents who are notoriously flat-footed have feet that are tolerably well arched. We venture to say that the wild Indian of the native forest was never seen with the beauty of his symmetrical and handsome frame marred by flat feet. There are some of the race who flatten their _heads_, but they never wear boots, nor heels on their moccasins, and their feet are therefore free from this disagreeable shape. The artist never allows a representation of this deformity to appear in his work; on the contrary, an arch that is high and well-marked has always been considered beautiful. It gives an airiness, elegance, and grace to the appearance of the foot which is as beautiful as the flat foot is ungraceful and awkward. A firm step and upright carriage of the whole body are also generally to be found with the arched instep—never without; while the flat foot, if not seen, may always be inferred from the unnatural, shuffling gait of its possessor.