50 



STARTING. 



keep him short in hand (without any sudden 

 check,) and strongly close the leg against him on 

 that side to which he is springing or turning ; 

 and while continuing to press that leg against 

 him, or even the spur, to check his side move- 

 ment, ease the hand, and close both legs on him 

 to set him straight, the rider preserving his own 

 patience, calmness, and presence of mind. This 

 will generally restore the horse to tranquillity 

 and confidence. [See Appendix, C] 



Never punish a horse for being afraid of 

 any object he meets with, because he is most 

 likely to suppose that the punishment pro- 

 ceeded from, or was occasioned by, the 

 object he feared; but, without severity, press 

 him on unhesitatingly, as if it were a matter 

 not worth notice; or by gently showing the 

 object at a distance, let him stand quiet and 

 unrestrained to convince himself and recover 

 his tranquillity ; and then proceed slowly, not 

 suffering him to fly away, retaining his fear. 

 Horses are often considered restive, when they 

 are only afraid and want confidence. [See Ap- 

 pendix, E, F, G.] 



