82 THE AMERICAN HORSEWOMAN. 



through the ring-bar, and then brought down 

 to within two or three inches of the lower edge 

 of the saddle-flap ; here it is passed through a 

 slit in the flap, then carried under the horse to 

 the other side and buckled to another strap, 

 which is fastened, for this purpose, just below 

 the off-pommel. By this arrangement the sad- 

 dle-flaps on both sides are held down, and the 

 rider, without dismounting, can change the 

 length of her stirrup by merely tightening or 

 loosening this strap. Although highly recom- 

 mended by some riders, this balance strap has 

 one objectionable feature, which is that, as the 

 measurement of the horse's girth is not con- 

 stant during a long ride, it will be necessary to 

 tighten the strap frequently in order to keep 

 the stirrup of the proper length. The old way 

 of fastening is much better, for too much com- 

 plication in the saddle and bridle is apt to annoy 

 and confuse the rider, especially if a novice. 

 The golden rule in riding on horseback is to 

 have everything accurate, simple, safe, and 

 made of the very best material that can be pro- 

 cured. 



The bridle should be neatly and plainly 

 made, with no large rosettes at the sides, nor 

 highly colored bands across the forehead. The 

 reins and the head-piece should never be made 



