THE HORSE. 51 



return was completely tired out, so that when 

 there was occasion to use him the same day it 

 was an effort for him to maintain his usual 

 light gait. Grooms who are always doctoring 

 a horse, giving him nostrums that do no good 

 but often much harm, are also to be avoided. In 

 short, the owner of a horse must be prepared 

 for tricks of all kinds on the part of these stable 

 servants ; although, in justice to them, it must 

 be said that there are many who endeavor to 

 perform all their duties faithfully, and can be 

 relied on to treat with kindness any animals 

 committed to their care. 



Should the lady rider be obliged to get her 

 horse from a livery stable, she should not rely 

 entirely upon what his owner says of his gaits 

 or gentleness, but should have him tried care- 

 fully by some friend or servant, before herself 

 attempting to mount him. She should also be 

 very careful to see, or have her escort see, that 

 the saddle is properly placed upon the back of 

 the horse and firmly girthed, so that there may 

 be no danger of its turning. 



