248 A HUNTING CATECHISM 



disaster. The rider is also very liable to strain 

 the inside muscle of the thigh, the "tailor's 

 muscle " as it is commonly called, if a horse 

 stumbles, or shies, or stops short suddenly. This 

 is a most painful affliction, and not only takes 

 some time to get right, but also leaves the 

 sufferer quite helpless in the saddle, and barely 

 able to keep his seat. 



Q. What can minimise the ailment in some 

 degree ? 



A. It is possible to ride, and even to hunt, by 

 wrapping a long soft leather strap round the 

 afflicted thigh, in the form of a figure of eight, 

 and then passing it round the body and fastening 

 it by a buckle, much support to the injured 

 muscle being thus afforded. These straps are 

 made, and sold, on purpose for this treatment. 



Q. What may happen if the stirrups are too 

 short ? 



A. If the horse rears suddenly very straight 

 upright the rider is apt to slip off backwards, as 

 he can get scant hold with his legs ; or else, 

 by steadying himself with the bridle, he will 

 pull the horse over backwards. 



Q. What can a rider do if a horse rears 

 badly ? 



A. It is very seldom that a horse will come 

 over backwards, if his mouth is not touched in 

 the least, but as very little is required to make 

 him lose his balance, the least clutch at the reins 

 by the rider will very likely cause him to fall. 

 If the rider is not taken unawares, and can at 

 once press the heel of his left hand against the 

 pommel of the saddle without taking hold, at 

 the same time clutching the mane behind the 



