HOW THE HORSE LEARNS 187 



tliem a matter of habit gone through without 

 thought or requiring very little attention. The con- 

 stant, methodical repetition of the actions taught 

 is necessary w ith a view to impressing and obtain- 

 ing prompt obedience to the aids and an easy 

 execution of the actions. 



It is repetition which teaches, which keeps a 

 thing in the memory, removes repugnance to per- 

 form a movement, and causes movements to be 

 made by habit without being noticed, and when 

 the horse moves by habit we may be sure that on 

 the aids being applied he will go through what 

 is required. He learns even illogical things by dint 

 of much repetition. Few repetitions should be made 

 at a time of the same action, in order not to wea- 

 ry and fatigue him, which ^^<)uld give rise in him 

 to dislike and opposition to performing the action. 



The habit of performing what is taught only 

 comes after many repetitions and after a certain 

 time of continuing such repetitions. A certain pe- 

 riod of repetition of greater or less length in ac- 

 cordance w4th the memory and retentive faculties 

 of the horse is necessarv in order that he should 



