GOING UP OR DOWN HILL. 257 



proceeding in the former manner, he will in all probability 

 merely let himself down on his hind quarters ; but if in the 

 latter, he may fall on his side and roll over. In riding down 

 precipitous mountain slopes the rider should allow his horse 

 plenty of rein while keeping in touch with his mouth, in order 

 that the animal may see where he is placing his feet, should 



Fig. 205. Picking up an object off the ground. 



lean well back, the steeper the declivity the more should the 

 weight be thrown back, as if the horse is used to mountain 

 climbing he will place all his weight on his hind quarters and 

 will almost dig his hind feet for grip into the side of the slope 

 as he proceeds, in a kind of half sitting position, while keeping 

 all weight off his forehand in the event of a false step being 

 made. 



17 



