128 MANUAL FOR NOITCOMILISSIONED OFFICERS. 



alternately closes and relaxes the fingers, the hands preserv- 

 ing contact in the intervals between the actions. In the same 

 manner he uses the legs, neither gripping nor releasing alto- 

 gether, but preserving light contact in the intervals between 

 the blows with the calves. The weight likewise is used in a 

 similar manner, being quickly applied to the front, to the 

 rear, or to a side, alternating with returns to the normal 

 position. 



If an action of the aids is prolonged the horse has oppor- 

 tunity to establish the corresponding resistance, but if pro- 

 duced by repeated applications the effect is very marked. 



All action of the aids should diminish in intensity when 

 obedience begins and cease entirely as soon as the desired 

 result Is secured. 



Troopers must be thoroughly trained in riding with the 

 reins in one hand. 



208. The instructor, in teaching troopers to avail themselves 

 of their legs and reins, is governed by the preceding consid- 

 erations, and from the first watches vigilantly the action of 

 the aids. 



The hand should always be kept low. The most thought- 

 ful care should be exercised in the combined application of the 

 aids, so that they may not be opposed to each other in their 

 action ; that is, one favoring the intended movement, the other 

 opposing it. 



The instructor impresses upon the troopers that their hands 

 must be kept still ; that is, free from bobbing up and down, 

 and pulling, and from giving and taking when there is no 

 reason therefor. 



Likewise their legs should remain in light contact with the 

 horse's sides and the heels not be used^ to kick the horse 

 constantly in a nervous manner. 



Moreover, that the effects of the aids may be perfectly 

 clear, and that there may be no contradiction between them, 

 there should never be simultaneous action of the direct reins 

 demanding slowing up or halting and of the legs provoking a 

 forward movement. This condition is essential, for preserving 

 the composure indispensable to the horses of the troop. % 



242. Posting : Posting is habitually employed when the troop- 

 ers have stirrups and understand their use. 



