?fS GRACEFUL RIDING. 



attain a secure and graceful seat, combined with con- 

 fidence and firmness. The rider has more control 

 over the motions of his body in this pace than any 

 other : in this the body is well brought down into 

 the saddle by its own weight, and finds its true equi- 

 librium. When the rider wishes to make his horse 

 trot, let him ease his reins and press the calves of 

 his legs gently ; when his horse is at a trot, let him 

 feel both his reins, raise his horse's forehand, and 

 keep his haunches well under him. 



THE CANTER. 



The rider must have a light and firm feeling of 

 both reins to raise his horse's forehand ; at the same 

 time, with a pressure of both calves, to bring the 

 animal's quarters well under him, having a double 

 feeling of the inward rein, and a strong pressure of 

 the outward leg, to cause him to strike ofi" in unison. 



At all times the horse should be tausrht to lead 

 off* with EITHER fore leg ; by doing so his legs will 

 not be so much shaken, especially the off" fore leg, 

 which is the one he most generally leads off" on. 

 This must be the case when he is continuallif throw- 

 huf the greater part of his weight upon the leading 

 fore leg, as it comes to the ground, which causes 

 lameness of \\\(i foot, and strains the back sinews 

 of the logs. Being thoroughly taught to change his 



