THE-:- HORSE 



able bit should have *'A," the length of the 

 shank from the mouthpiece to the rein incep- 

 tion ring, at least twice that of **B," the length 

 from the mouthpiece to the curbstrap ring. 



Martingale. — A martingale consists of a 

 nose band, a breast band and a strap from 

 the nosepiece to the cinch. This is for the 

 purpose of keeping the horse from throwing 

 his head, and, if properly adjusted, has the 

 tendency to keep the horse's head in the best 

 position for control. The reins should be at- 

 tached at the ends and be of such a length 

 that when the ends are permitted to rest on 

 the horse's withers, there will be enough slack 

 between the ends and the bit to allow the 

 horse perfect freedom of head. 



Spurs. — I believe it is unnecessary to have 

 spurs with sharp points. I think the most 

 useful English spur is the kind that has a 

 rather long shank and no rowel, while the best 

 Mexican spur should have a long hook and 

 blunt rowels. 



Whip. — As to the whip, a stiff crop, or a 

 rawhide quirt, seems each to be the best in its 

 respective line. 



Balance. — A perfect balance tends to keep 

 the stride of the horse in better rhythm, also to 

 keep his pace uniform, and assists him to 

 change leads when desired. If the weight of 

 the rider is thrown to one side of the horse it 

 necessarily follows that the animal's inclina- 



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