104 



HOW TO JUDGE A HORSE. 



17 — RIDING THE HORSE, (rAREY). 



As the fear of the horse is not entirely allayed yet, 

 and it being easily alarmed and irritated by new im- 

 pressions and unwonted handling, it is apparent that, 

 to cause it to move on, the rider should not attempt 

 to urge it forward by kicking it in the sides with 

 his heels. Better caress and speak to him, and if 

 he does not go forward then, turn him a little to the 

 left, until he begins to move, permitting him to 

 jnove slowly and with loose reins. Continue in this 

 manner until the horse has walked around the en- 

 closure for a few times and got used to the bit and 

 reins, permitting you to guide and stop him at your 

 pleasure. This exercise should not last longer than 

 half an hour so as not to annoy him. Eepeat the 

 same twice a day for a few days. In dismounting, 

 and taking off the saddle and bridle, use the same 

 precaution, not to alarm the horse. "Withdraw 

 your right foot slowly from the stirrup, with the 

 left hand take hold of the mane and reins, lift your 

 leg slowly over the croup, being careful not to touch 

 the horse with the boot, and let yourself slowly 

 down to the block or ground, all this time speaking 

 to the horse. Eepeat mounting and dismounting 

 several times during each lesson. 



After a few days the horse will be quiet, and it 

 will then be time to take him outdoors. There it will 



