IN SEARCH OF A HORSE. 



225 



habit 0^ gibhing, or swerving from the direct line, by 

 inattention to the collar ; if it galls the shoulder, or 

 presses on the windpipe, as often happens when it 

 has not been made expressly for him, he resists the 

 draught ; when punished for resistance, he rears or 

 kicks ; and if he thus vanquishes a timid driver, he 

 will repeat the trick until it becomes habitual. The 

 first repulse at starting, should lead to close exami- 

 nation of the collar ; and indeed, it is a useful prac- 

 tice, to see that " all is right" at every journey : un- 

 sound reins or traces may lead to serious mischief, 

 with the most quiet team. 



It is not out of place to notice the injudicious 

 manner of many riders, in managing their bridle on 

 hilly roads. I lived at Hampstead for several years 



