172 ON HUNTING. 



short space of time, make a clean sweep of all outward 

 dirt and wet. It cannot, however, be properly done 

 without a great deal of elbow grease as well, of which the 

 present generation are inclined to be very chary. When 

 the body of the horse is dry, a large loose rug should be 

 thrown over him, and the legs then attended to, and 

 rubbed thoroughly dry by the hand ; I know the usual 

 practice with idle and knowing grooms is to let the 

 bandages remain on until the legs become dry of them- 

 selves, but I also know that there cannot be a worse 

 practice ; for horses' legs, after hunting, the large knee- 

 bucket should be used, with plenty of warm water, which 

 will sooth the sinews after such violent exertion, and 

 allay any irritation proceeding from cuts and thorns. 

 The system of bandaging horses' legs, and letting them 

 remain in this state for hours, must tend to relax the 

 sinews; such practices have never gained favour with 

 me, but I have heard salt and water and vinegar highly 

 extolled by some, with which the bandages are to be 

 kept constantly wet, as tending to strengthen the sinews 

 and keep them cool; if, however, used too long or 

 allowed to become dry, I conceive more injury likely to 

 result from their use than benefit. It is generally known 

 that those who have recourse to belts for support in 

 riding, cannot do well without them afterwards, and 

 although often advised to try these extra aids, I never 

 availed myself of them ; cold water is the best strength- 

 ener either to man or horse, and a thorough good dry 

 yubbing afterwards. After severe walking exercise, the 

 benefit of immersing the feet in warm water for a short 

 time must be fully appreciated by all who have tried it ; 

 but I very much question if any man would feel himself 

 stronger upon his legs the next morning, by having 

 them bandaged with hot flannels during the night. 



