A time long before our corrupted kids took to the streets armed with blades and economy lager (back in Victorian times they preferred catapults and pennyworths of gin), our esteemed doctor had these words of advice for child-rearers. However, BB will not be held responsible for the consequences of freezing your kids...

On kids: "The longer children are out in the open air, the better for them. Let them be out in all weathers; wind will give colour to their cheeks, the sun will tan them, and the rain will not harm them. Frost makes them run about to keep warm, and the cold weather invigorates them."

Next week: ’Scotchmen’