"The Skin and its Functions - The Importance of the Bath," was the subject of Dr. Sargent's lecture yesterday. The lecturer first described in detail the different layers of the skin and the important work performed by each. The outer part of the skin exerts a protective force, doing the double duty, by its power as a non-conductor, of keeping out the cold and preserving the vital heat in the body. Below the protective layer comes the glandular or secretive tissue, under which lies the vascular, and farthest from the surface, the nervous fibre.

The doctor then proceeded to take up the various kinds of baths and to show when and by what kind of persons they should be used. A person of delicate health who takes but little exercise should not bathe frequently, not more than twice a week, but a man who is almost constantly exercising needs a bath at least once a day, sometimes oftener. In regard to a cold bath in the morning, the lecturer spoke at some length. A great many evil effects are caused by these baths, such as neuralgia and headaches, for persons who have been without any hearty food for nearly fourteen hours are not prepared to endure such a shock so early in the morning. The best way is to dip a towel into cold water and then rub the body briskly. This has the effect of a tonic upon the system, without producing any bad results.

A tepid bath is the best to take after exercise. While a warm bath would probably do one no harm, the absurdity of such a course was well shown. Exercise tends to circulate the blood rapidly and bring it to the surface; a warm bath simply causes such a state of things to continue. A cold bath immediately after exercise is very injurious. If a man were strong and vigorous it might not do him any harm, but for most men it is almost an attempt at suicide, as it drives the blood back upon the heart and lungs and is liable to produce a congestion. It is very unfortunate that the hour at which these lectures are held prevents so many upper class men from attending, as they are interesting and of importance to all the students.