THE TURN OF LIFE

Between the years of forty and sixty, a man who has properly regulated himself may be considered as in the prime of life. His matured strength of constitution renders him almost impervious to the attack of disease, and experience has given soundness to his judgment. His mind is resolute, firm and equal; - all his functions are in the highest order; he assumes the mastery over business; builds up a competence on the foundation he has formed in early manhood, and passes through a period of life attended by many gratifications. Having gone a year or two past sixty, he arrives at a critical period in the road of existence; the river of death flows before him, and he remains at a stand-still. But athwart this river is a viaduct, called “The Turn of Life,” which, if crossed in safety, leads to the valley of “old age,” round which the river winds, and then flows beyond without a boat or causeway to obstruct its passage.

The bridge is constructed of fragile materials, - and it depends upon how it is trodden whether it bend or break. Gout, apoplexy, and other bad characters are also in the vicinity t waylay the traveller, and thrust him from the pass; but let him gird up his loins, and provide himself with a fitting staff, and he may trudge on in safety with perfect composure. To quit metaphor, “The Turn of Life” is a turn either into a prolonged walk or into the grave. The system and powers having reached their utmost expansion, now being either to close like flowers at sunset or break down at once. One injudicious stimulant, a single fatal excitement may force it beyond its strength; while a careful supply of proppers and the withdrawal of all that tends to force a plant will sustain it in beauty and vigor until night has fairly set in.