ADJUSTMENT OF THE BRIDLE. 87 



(interdental space) in their rows of teeth, we would 

 probably have to guide anfl control them by means 

 of reins attached to a nose-band, which is a method 

 practised by many American cow-boys when breaking 

 in young horses. Owing to the fact that their nose- 

 band (hackamore) does not hurt the animal's mouth, 

 and that it gives all the necessary indications, ex- 

 cellent results, I believe, are obtained with it. 



As the pressure of the bit should be an indication 



Fig- 51. View of under-surface of Lower Jaw. 



of the wishes of the rider and not a means of in- 

 flicting pain, the bit should rest on the least sensi- 

 tive portion of the interdental space, namely, on the 

 part just above the tushes ; because there the jaw-bone 

 is broader than higher up, and is consequently better 

 able to bear pressure. Hence, with a double bridle, 

 the mouth-piece of the curb should be just clear of 

 the tushes of the horse or gelding (Fig. 49), and about 

 one inch above the corner front teeth of the mare ; 

 in fact, as low as possible without making the curb- 

 chain liable to slip over the animal's chin. The fact 



