IK THE SADDLE. 49 



permits the body to make, most readily, those motions 

 that are necessary for preserving the perpendicular appli- 

 cation of the weight, and for keeping the balance. The 

 strongest hold upon the saddle possible is with the inside 

 of the thighs. 



There should be no pressure upon the stirrups ; for 

 this would relieve the weight, disturb the balance, and 

 force the grip of the thighs. It is no argument in favor 

 of riding upon the stirrups that the horsemen of the East 

 carry their knees up to the pommel of the saddle, for the 

 Mexicans, who are better riders, extend the leg to its full 

 length. It is in spite of bad systems that these peoples 

 who live on horseback become skillful m the management 

 of their steeds. Because a circus performer standing 

 upon one leg keeps his horse under circumstances that 

 would prevent a poor rider from keeping in his saddle, it is 

 no argument that the proper way to ride is upon one leg. 



The seat having been found and the stirrups having 

 been adjusted, no changes should be made for the differ- 

 ent circumstances under which the rider will be called 

 upon to exercise his skill. It is bad art when the prin- 

 ciples are not suited to every emergency ; and the seat 

 that has been found to be that in which the center of 

 gravity can best be preserved in the high airs of the 

 manege, where the horse makes the most violent move- 

 ments of the fore-hand and of the croup, should answer 

 aU requirements. 



The beginner will use the reins of the snaffle only. He 

 will take a rein in the grasp of each hand, the loose end 

 passing under, and held by the thumb, at a length that 

 will give him command of the mouth of the horse. 



