176 MOUNTING AND DISMOUNTING. 



the animal by the left ear (in Colonial style), or by the crown- 

 piece of the bridle with the left hand, and then shorten the 

 reins (Fig. 174). 



MOUNTING WITH STIRRUPS IN MILITARY STYLE. 



The action of mounting by this method is divided into 

 " preparing to mount " and " mounting." The motions may 

 be briefly described as follows : 



Fig. 174. Preparing to mount hogged maned pony 



Preparing to Mount. I. Stand facing the horse with the 

 right foot opposite the stirrup, and the heels about six inches 

 apart. Place the left hand on the crest of the horse, about 

 twelve inches from the pommel. 2. With the right hand draw 

 the reins through the left hand, so as to obtain a light and 

 equal feeling of both reins on the horse's mouth. 3. With the 

 right hand throw the slack of the reins to the off side, twist a 

 lock of the mane round the left thumb, and take hold of the 



