2 INTRODUCTION. 



instruction. The fair rider guides her steed, 

 without abruptness, from walk to canter, from 

 canter to trot, every movement in perfect har- 

 mony ; horse and rider being, as it were, of one 

 thought. 



" Each look, each motion, awakes a new-born grace." 



Unfortunately, at the present day, from want 

 of careful study of the subject, the majority of 

 American lady riders, notwithstanding the ele- 

 gance of their forms and their natural grace, 

 by no means equal their English sisters in the 

 art of riding. In most instances, a faulty posi- 

 tion in the saddle, an unsteadiness of seat, and 

 a lack of sympathy between horse and rider, 

 occasion in the mind of the spectator a sense 

 of uneasiness lest the horse, in making play- 

 ful movements, or, perhaps, becoming slightly 

 fractious, may unseat his rider, a feeling 

 which quite destroys the charm and fascination 

 she might otherwise exercise. If my country- 

 women would but make a master stroke, and 

 add correct horseback riding to the long list 

 of accomplishments which they now possess, 

 they would become irresistible, and while de- 

 lighting others, would likewise promote their 

 own physical well-being. There is no cosmetic 

 nor physician's skill which can preserve the 

 bloom and freshness of youth as riding can, 



