i66 



of use in protecting the hcrse^s back, keeping 

 the saddle from sinking too close upon it, and 

 causing a degree of elasticity. Besides, sad- 

 dle-clotiis imbibe perspiration, and give the 

 saddle an easier seat, as well as a more elegant 

 appearance; they also keep tlie stuffing of the 

 paimels from becoming too hard : but they 

 should never be larger than as before described, 

 as thev create heat, chafe and swell the back, 

 and make it extremely tender. In the cool 

 months of Vv'inter, autumn, and spring, a small 

 saddle-cloth may be used with propriety ; but 

 in the summer, they should be dispensed with, 

 on account of heat. Coverings of Switzer- 

 land goat, panther, and Icopaui skins, and blue 

 cloth, which officers use for their chargers, 

 have a good appearance, but in v/arnr weather 

 they injure the horse, by keeping him too hot. 

 The French hussars cover their saddles with 

 sheep-skins with the wool on, and tliis, toge- 

 ther with the long manes and tails of the 

 horses, has a curious effi;ct, and must, of 

 course, be unpleasant to the rider, especially 

 in warm weather; and there is no apparent 

 reason for continuing such a practice, except 

 that the skins, from their magnitude, conceal 



