322 THE CONDITION OF HUNTERS 



not have more loose boxes ? A trifling addition 

 converts each stall into a box. Two bars, from the 

 two centre stall-posts to the wall, convert these stalls 

 into loose places, quite sufficient for the purpose we 

 require of them ; and the horse that is loose is pre- 

 vented, by a very simple contrivance, from annoying 

 the one that is tied up. In the stables of Sir John 

 Dashwood King, at Halton House, Bucks, I first saw 

 this used. It consists of a light cast-iron guard, 

 hitched to the stall-post in the first place, and then 

 to the top bar or rail, and extending only far enough 

 to prevent the loose horse touching the quarters of 

 the one tied up with his mouth, which otherwise he 

 would be inclined to do : thus it is evident that, out 

 of eight horses, four may always be loose, which, in 

 my opinion, is quite sufficient for horses in constant 

 work. One little improvement, however, may be 

 suggested here. To one of the loose boxes at the 

 end there should be an outside door ; then, in case 

 of a horse expected home out of stable hours, he may 

 be taken into his box and dressed without disturbing 

 the stud. 



When we consider that after every hard day's 

 work with hounds an effusion of lymph takes place 

 in all those parts which are exposed to severe friction, 

 it is unnecessary to remark that the sooner absorption 

 of that lymph takes place, the sooner is our horse fit 

 for work, and the less liable is he to become injured 

 from the effects of bangs or blows which his legs may 

 have received. Now an admirable auxiliary here is 

 the power a horse has, when loose, to shift his position 



