66 THE HORSE 



features combined with that good action in front and sure-footedness which 

 has always been a recommendation to Russian horses. The small size is 

 owing to governmental interference in not permitting the export of horses 

 over 14 hands or 14 hands 2 inches. The standard of height varies, but 

 we have seen a number refused at the ports of embarkation that appeared 

 to be only slightly over 14 hands. Their chief defect is that of shying, 

 and the worst bred ones are incurable. Where the intelligence of the 

 Arab sire has taken effect they can be induced to walk over a sewer 

 grating, for instance, when once thoroughly satisfied of its safety. 

 Exmoor stallions have also contributed to the improvement so far as 

 quality goes, but not size, as our readers will doubtless know they are 

 small on their native heath. 



NORWEGIAN AND SWEDISH HORSES 



In Norway the horses are almost all of a colour midway between cream 

 and dun, with black manes and tails, and a black stripe along the back. 

 Several stallions of this breed were introduced into Wales early in the 

 centur}^, and these peculiar markings are still prevalent there. They are 

 of good shape, very safe, and possessed of clean but not very high action. 



The Swedish horses are smaller than those of Norway, and of all 

 colours. They are chiefly used in harness, being driven in a carriole with 

 very long shafts, so that the body is suspended midway between the horse 

 and the wheels. This gives it a very uneasy motion, which requires some 

 time to accustom the rider to it. When larger carriages are required, four 

 of these little creatures are put to them, and they will gallop a ten mile 

 stage within the hour. 



