GRACEFUL RIDING. 17 



timid riders, many of whom are frequently thrown 

 before they can firmly seat themselves. 



This is only to be cured by an active and good 

 horseman, combined with firm, though gentle and 

 kind, usage ; by approaching him gently and patting 

 him, mounting at the first effort, and when seated, 

 restraining him, patting his neck, and speaking 

 kindly to him, but, at the same time, not allowing 

 him to move until he is perfectly quiet. In a few 

 days he will be quite cured of his fault. Remember ! 

 harshness must never be used in this case, as great 

 mischief may be done by such a course, and the habit 

 icill be confirmed. 



Kindness will succeed generally in most cases of 

 vice ; harshness never will in any ! 



The position of the saddle should be in accordance 

 with the formation of the horse's shoulders, and about 

 a hand's breadth from them, so as not in any 

 way to interfere with or impede the free action of 

 the muscles. 



The malposition of the saddle, particularly in 

 horses with upright shoulders, is the cause of many 

 horses falling, from its pressing too much on the 

 shoulders, and by that means confining the action of 

 the muscles, which thus become benumbed, and lose 

 their elasticity. A partial deadening of the limbs 

 having taken place, the horse, from want of vitality 



B 



