^oRSE3^A^'SHIP. 19 



The snaffle, which is now generally added 

 to the ordinary curb, is almost indispensable, 

 for if an accident occurs to the bridle, which 

 renders it useless, the rider recurs immedi- 

 ately to the snaffle, and is not at the mercy 

 of his horse. It offers besides the means to 

 ease the mouth by alternately using the curb 

 and snaffle. 



Of the Choice of the Bridle, according to the 

 quality of the mouth. 



It is necessary, says M. de La Guerniere, 

 from whom this article is borrowed, to adjust 

 the bit according to the interior structure of 

 the mouth of the horse, the branches follow- 

 ing the proportion of the chest, and the curb 

 following the sensibility of the back part of 

 the mouth. The bit should bear upon the 

 nether jaw, a finger or more from the sharp 

 teeth of the lower jaw, for if it bore higher, it 

 ■would wrinkle the lips, which would have a 

 very bad appearance, and besides would bruise 

 them. It is necessary, in order that the 

 mouth-piece be well seated in its proper place, 

 that the heel be entirely straight from the 

 holes which hold the mouth-piece to the place 



