i64 HORSEMAXSHIP. 



too low, the reins may, in similar manner, be attached to 

 the bottom eyes of the bit. 



Without admitting that this attachment can effect all its 

 sanguine inventor claims for it, I think that the arrange- 

 ment is one of decided merit. In the hands of a good 

 horseman it can with ease control an unruly horse, and 

 by its use, an inferior rider acquires efficiency. The rings 

 do not interfere with the direct pull on the horse's mouth 

 when the riders hands are kept low and the horse goes 

 with his head in its proper position, but immediately the 

 position of the hands or head are altered, the rings become 

 self-acting, and the rider's command over the animal vastly 

 increased. For instance, when a horse suddenly takes 

 it into his head to shy, bolt, plunge, buck-jump, or kick, 

 pleasantries for which the rider is quite unprepared, he, by 

 the sudden and unexpected jerk is thrown out of balance, 

 sidewards, upwards, or backwards. Be the list to port or 

 starboard, or in any other direction, the attachment comes 

 instantaneously and automatically into play, administers a 

 severe chop to the bit, equivalent in force to the impetus 

 given to the rider, while at the same time it enables the 

 rider to retain his seat. This self-inflicted punishment is an 

 effectual deterrent against a repetition of these pranks. 



The effect on a horse kicking is admirably demonstrated 

 by the artist (see page 123) : the wicked little cob's head is 

 drawn into such a position that his kicking is confined to 

 mere lifting. In the illustration of the horse rearing (see 

 page 119), the rider is in comparative comfort without much 

 danger of the brute falling back on him. When a horse 

 rears, the rider often loses his balance. I have seen many 

 a one slip quietly down over the tail and land on his feet 

 or in an undignified sitting posture. In his anxiety to save 

 himself he irresistibly pulls on the reins, and in so doing his 



