HUNTERS 71 



thus showing promise of power in propelHng itself forward, 

 either in the gallop or when leaping. A slovenly mover, 

 which drags its hind-legs with little bending of the hock, 

 should be passed over at once. 



Character and Appearance. 



Much of the character of a horse may be learned by 

 studying its countenance, and watching the motion of its 

 ears. Small ears invariably denote temper of some sort, and 

 should be studied for a few moments. If restless the horse 

 will probably be hot-tempered and fidgety, never keeping 

 still, wearying itself and its rider, and far from being a 

 comfort to ride. If the small ears are seen to be constantly 

 pricked forward, look out for shying ; or if laid back, 

 especially if the eye is small and sullen, be very sure that the 

 animal has a sulky temper, is ungenerous in its work, and not 

 to be depended on. The ear to be desired is a large and full 

 one, and kept frequently in motion, without any tendency 

 to restlessness. This is a sign of intelligence, and a quick 

 brain, while a horse which seldom moves its ears is too apt 

 to be lazy, and given to making blunders. A large lop ear, 

 often in motion, is an invariable indication of a docile, 

 sweet-tempered horse, ready to put forth its utmost powers 

 at the call of its rider. While on the subject of the ear, let it 

 be clearly laid down that on no account should the groom be 

 allowed to cut out the thick covering of hair Nature places 

 at the entrance, for mischief may ensue if this is done. It 

 is placed there to keep out dust, rain-drops, and insects, and 

 if either of the latter gain access to the interior the 

 horse may get almost out of control for the time, shaking 

 its head and trying to rid itself of the intruder. 



The head should be long, and on this depends the length 

 of the animal, for in a well-proportioned one, 2^ heads equal 

 the length from the point of the chest to the remotest part 

 of the haunch. A long head, with plenty of width in the 

 forehead, is sure to belong to an intelligent horse, while a 

 small, pretty head, too often indicates what children term 

 " a silly." Especially is this the case with a gelding. The 



character of the head should befit the sex, the male having a 



