The position here described is an approach to that assumed by old people—those “bent over by age”—who are unable from weakness to stand upright. The abdominal muscles are relaxed, the chest sinks, the head falls forward, and the spine adapts itself by bending at the neck and shoulders. The author goes on to show that these effects are felt more sensibly by women than by men, and that their diseases and weaknesses are thus rendered more aggravated, and the complete cure of them retarded or prevented by the wearing of high heels. CHAPTER X. Miscellaneous—Criticism of Different Forms and Fashions—Elasticity—Sensitiveness—Rubbers and Water-proof Leather—Cure for Sweating—Qualities of a good Covering. It has been said that fashion should never be allowed to change the shape of the sole, or interfere with the form of the lasts used in the construction of the foot’s coverings. This restriction, however, does not apply to the materials of which they are made, nor the form into which the _uppers_ may be cut. The latter may be of a great variety of forms, and the material of almost any kind or quality, and of all colours and descriptions of ornamentation. Yet there are many particulars that are matters of style now, which will give way to something different in another year, or in two or three years. Each of the different kinds of boots has certain peculiar advantages which, in addition to its being fashionable, contribute to make it popular. The side-spring boot, that has been a favourite so long, seldom slips at the heel, and this is a decidedly good point; it also, by fitting closely at the ankles, gives a feeling of snugness and security which is comfortable, while it admits of perfect freedom in all movements of the ankle in walking. There is less trouble in putting it on and off than with most other descriptions of boots and shoes which is a recommendation to many people who value time or dislike extra labour. The _Balmoral boot_ for ladies has its recommendation in its _superiority of fit_. This has made, and keeps it, a favourite, causing it to be more generally worn than any other. The mariner of lacing enables the wearer to draw it smooth and snug over the instep and around the heel and ankle—an advantage possessed by no other, except, partially, by the side-laced boot; which is likely to come again into favour. The _Polish boot_ takes the place of the Balmoral when a greater height upon the leg is required. There is no other difference in its form, and the quality of fit is the same. Its worst disadvantage is the amount of time required in lacing and unlacing it, although, when made of thick leather, it may have a slight cramping effect upon the muscles of the ankle. The _Button boot_, often called the Hungarian, when cut high like the Polish, is at this time the most fashionable. It is quite as handsome, but has not usually the neatness of fit which the Balmoral possesses.