THE LEVER, THE BIT AND CUKB, ETC. 193 



bridles — if we may use the word— omit altogether the 

 first-named pair, the cheekpieces being then sewed 

 directly into the upper rings of the bit.* This we hold 

 to be a great mistake, because, first of all, the bit, 

 supposing it to be of the proper size and shape, cannot 

 be so easily fixed in its proper place ; and, secondly, 

 it is impossible to change it for one that does fit accu- 

 rately, in the contrary case. In fact, this practice is 

 evidently a consequence of want of clear views on 

 the subject of bitting, and, on the other hand, a great 

 obstacle to the attainment of the necessary accuracy. 

 We hold the lower pair of buckles and straps to be 

 indispensable. The upper pair of buckles might be 

 more easily dispensed with if one single buckle were 

 placed on the top of the horse's head between its 

 ears ; for by means of this the total length of the 

 checkpieces may be regulated generally, and the final 

 adjustment of the position of the bit accomplished 

 by means of the buckles and straps, which latter 

 should be pierced with holes at intervals of half an 

 inch.''" Some people will, however, prefer the buckles 

 in the checkpieces ; and if so, it will be necessary to 

 see that they do not lie higher than the angle of the 

 horse's 63^0, as they are otherwise likely to interfere 

 with the position of the forehead-band, Avhich should, 

 like every other part of the bridle, including the throat- 

 band, fit loosely, and cause the least possible amount 



* We are tokl '•' that the gentlemen adopt the latter method 

 and the farmers the former ; not having so many bridles, and 

 changing their mouthpieces more frequently." 



+ It may sorhetimes be necessary to let the bit down or take 

 it U]3 by a smaller quantity than the half-mch affords : in such 

 cases intermediate holes may be made ; but the fewer of these 

 the better, as they weaken the strap. 



O 



