GRACEFUL RIDING. 59 



Previous to dismounting, the groom must stand by 

 the horse's head, holding the reins close to tlie bit, 

 to keep him as steady as possible. 



The lady having removed her foot from the stirrup, 

 and passed her hand down to free her skirt, etc., from 

 all chance of catching to the saddle or stirrup, should 

 remove her knee out of the crutch ; at the same 

 time taking the precaution to disengage the habit from 

 that side. Then holding the crutch with her right 

 hand (the rein hanging loosely on the thumb), and 

 now placing her left hand on her groom's right arm, 

 near the wrist ; his arm being extended for the 

 purpose, she must spring lightly and clear from the 

 saddle, slightly inclining the bust towards the horse's 

 shoulder. 



By this method the lady will quite disengage 

 herself, and descend gently to the ground. 



MAXIMS TO BE ATTENDED TO. 



Be particular to avoid nervousness and hurry, 

 either in mounting or dismounting. 



Take time, and have everything correctly arranged 

 before starting ; serious accidents have occurred fre- 

 quently from being in haste to start oiF. 



Arrange the habit, length of stirrup, and have 

 the saddle-bands and buckles properly examined 



