CHAPTER XXVIII.
OUR STOMACHS.
In the best grades of society it is not now considered a sign of refinement to be "delicate." When our grandmothers, and even our mothers, were girls, robust health was esteemed almost a vulgarity.
Now, the woman who is pale and "delicate" is not an interesting invalid, but sometimes an absolute bore.

There are exceptions to this rule of pride in _in_delicate health,--notably among the lower classes.

These people having neglected and set at defiance all hygienic rules, feel that a mark of special distinction is set upon them by their diseases.

In fact, they "enjoy poor health," and take all occasions to discourse to the willing or disgusted listener upon their "symptoms," "disorders," their "nerves," and "Complaints." The final word should be spelt with a huge C, so important a place does it occupy in their estimation.

The three D's which should be rigidly excluded from polite conversation--Domestics, Dress and Diseases--form the staple of their conversation.