408 MANUAL OF MODERN FARRIERY. 



well after being cauterised ; we have known animals of high 

 reputation as hunters and racers, which have been subjected 

 to this operation. 



When the cornea of the eje is of a yellowish tinge, it is 

 indicative of liver complaint. This being observed, turn 

 up the lips and notice their internal structure, and if they 

 are of a similar hue, avoid the purchase of the animal. 



If the coat of a horse stares, it is certain he is not in 

 good health. It will be noticed that their dung is either 

 unusually fetid and slimy, or it is soft and washy, like that 

 of a cow. When not disturbed, such animals are languid and 

 sleepy, but dealers take care in showing them oflf temporarily 

 to rouse them from their lethargic condition, by inserting 

 ginger into their anus, salt into their mouth, and giving them 

 a smart touch or two wth the whip ; and no sooner does 

 the master enter the stable, than they commence champing 

 their bits, cocking their tails, and exhibiting for a short time 

 all the appearance of perfect health and spirits. In the 

 meantime, the dealer exerts his clap-trap eloquence to in- 

 duce the novice to believe the animals are the best and most 

 active horses in Britain ; and they too often succeed in 

 inducing such a belief. The hand should be drawn over 

 the ribs, and the finger pressed firmly between them. If the 

 skin appear tight and unyielding, it may be inferred that 

 he is hide-bound, and consequently labouring under some 

 internal disease. I would particularly direct the attention 

 of the purchaser to the mark of a cut which may be some 

 inches in length, and situated parallel with the shank-bone, 

 immediately below the pastern-joint. If such a mark is 

 found, it is certain that the nerve operation has been per- 

 formed, which we particularly noticed at page 245. Such 

 a horse should instantly be rejected. 



In examining the foot, if the front and sides of the hoofs 



