VII.—ÆRIAL VOYAGES HEALTH PROMOTING.

But while the charm of floating in the air is so fascinating these delightful ascensions will be even more beneficial in sanitary respects.

Atmospheric pressure, exerting nearly 30,000 pounds upon a human being of full growth, has much to do with the mechanical functions of life. At a moderate elevation, one-tenth of this weight can be relieved, and at greater hights, even one-third, as balloon experiments have sufficiently proven. This pressure, then, diminishing upon the muscular system, allows it to expand. The lungs at once become more voluminous and breathing purer air; the freedom with which all the circulating fluids of the system are allowed to act in the rare atmosphere, intensely quicken the animal and mental faculties; the novelty of the voyage, and the most sublime grandeur opening to the eye and mind of the invalid; all assist to promote health, impart new life, inspire ideas and invigorate soul and body.