CHAPTER XVII 



BLINKERS AXD BLINDNESS 



Do you advocate the use of blinkers ? 



' Many horses are better without them, but it would be 

 not only absurd, but dangerous, to drive all horses without 

 blinkers. There is much to be considered in the method 

 used in the early training of a horse ; how much in- 

 telligence his trainer possessed, and how much he gave the 

 young colt credit for. While some are more knowing than 

 others, all horses have a certain and intimate knowledge of 

 their own power and its limitations, and their inductions 

 are singularly accurate.' 



Then you believe in the old saw, ' As the twig is bent, the 

 tree's inclined ? ' 



' It should never be forgotten for a moment in breaking, 

 training and rearing young horses. They have a surprising 

 memory, and often prove the fact, to one's consternation. 

 An examination by the optician to test their sight would 

 also estabUsh the need or abolishment of blinkers in each 

 individual animal.' 



Why do saddle-horses never wear them ? 



' For one reason, because custom has established the 

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