THE SKELETON. 37 



being also in close connection with the flexors run- 

 ning downward on the rear side of the hock and 

 fetlock joints. An increased traction of the muscles, 

 and, consequently, an increased tension of the above- 

 mentioned flexors, has to neutralize the deviation in 

 the position. On the other hand, such permanent and 

 increased tension of the sinews will make itself felt 

 in its consequences, and in the course of time by a 

 straight position of the fetlock. It is apparent that 

 an increased and continual activity of the flexors 

 must take place, not only at rest, but also in motion, 

 because, during the latter, the leg is constantly placed 

 farther forward under the body, than in the case of 

 the leg being jointed normally. 



For this latter reason, horses of this build perform 

 the very gathered paces and short stops with ease, 

 but the holding out of the leg behind the perpen- 

 dicular will suffer, viz.: the propelling and the spring- 

 ing power — the extensibility will not be equal to the 

 carrying capability. Such horses will never be 

 prominent, neither in a fast trot nor in running, and 

 will bring little pressure into the harness. The 

 direct cause, of this position of the leg, is the abnor- 

 mal angular formation of some joint in connection 

 with an abnormal length of the bones enclosing that 

 joint. All the different combinations cannot be ex- 

 haustively discussed on account of their magnitude, 



