INTRODUCTORY.
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possession of the “periodic” habit. The exception to a rule is certainly a broad one, that is based on at least fifteen per cent of all tlie cases involved.
The facts enumerated in regard to the brain-labor of operatives (of which substantial illustration will be given) would indicate, if proven, that, if the labor is absolutely less in the aggregate with the working-girl than with the scholar, its amount is indeed great, and, moreover, is performed under conditions themselves most unfavorable. To these statistics and facts may be added certain other data of kindred significance, bearing upon the main proposition, that the operative suffers less in the vital direction from her employ than the student girl from hers. Dr. Beard, speaking of longevity,* adduces the following reasons for the greater age of brain than muscle workers: “ Brain-workers have less ivorry, and more comfort and happiness, than muscle-workers. Brain-workers live
* George M. Beard, M.D.: Public Health, p 57. 2 *