For this, and other Reasons, certain hardy
Exercises were reckoned by the Antients an essential Part in the
Formation of a liberal Character; and ought to have their Place in
Schools where Youth are taught the Languages and Sciences."
(* 8) 'Tis suppos'd that every Parent would be glad to have
their Children skill'd in _Swimming_, if it might be learnt in a
Place chosen for its Safety, and under the Eye of a careful Person.
Mr. _Locke_ says, p. 9. in his _Treatise of Education_; "'Tis that
saves many a Man's Life; and the _Romans_ thought it so necessary,
that they rank'd it with Letters; and it was the common Phrase to
mark one ill educated, and good for nothing, that he had neither
learnt to read nor to swim; _Nec Literas didicit nec Natare_. But
besides the gaining a Skill which may serve him at Need, the
Advantages to Health by often Bathing in cold Water during the Heat
of the Summer, are so many, that I think nothing need be said to
encourage it."
'Tis some Advantage besides, to be free from the slavish
Terrors many of those feel who cannot swim, when they are oblig'd to
be on the Water even in crossing a Ferry.
Mr. _Hutchinson_, in his _Dialogues concerning Education_, 2
Vols. Octavo, lately publish'd, says, Vol. 2. p. 297. "I would have
the Youth accustomed to such Exercises as will harden their
Constitution, as Riding, Running, Swimming, Shooting, and the like.
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