64 HORSES 



when it is evident he is conscious only of his per- 

 fect clothing and ignorant of his equestrian de- 

 ficiencies. The first pair of breeches will give a 

 boy much harmless enjoyment, and when he pulls 

 them on he will feel he is one more stage nearer 

 to manhood, but his performance in the saddle 

 ought to justify the wearing of a horseman's outfit. 



What we shall put on is not, however, a question 

 that concerns us much in early life, and an arbi- 

 trary parent generally decides the manner in which 

 we shall be clothed. The time comes eventually 

 when we have a voice in the matter, and it is for 

 that moment I am preparing to offer you advice. 



Neatness is the essential point in a horseman's 

 dress, and I would have you always bear this 

 in mind. Any slovenliness or untidiness, which 

 might be overlooked and forgiven in a pedestrian, 

 is brought into conspicuous prominence when one 

 is mounted on a horse. In fact your whole appear- 

 ance should be of an unassuming character, with 

 your clothes fitting in a manner that defies criti- 

 cism, and of a quiet pattern that does not catch 

 the eye. 



Breeches are the most important feature of a 

 horseman's rig. A misshapen coat may some- 

 times be pardoned, a battered old hat overlooked, 

 and bad boots condoned, but an ill-fitting pair of 

 breeches condemn the wearer at once. Breeches, 

 to be thoroughly comfortable for riding and to fit 

 properly, should be too tight for walking. They 

 should be very loose in the thigh and just as tight 



