STABLING. 255 



I have advocated. Sash-windows are capable of affording 

 a splendid current of air: when the horses are out, for 

 instance, or when the weather is tremendously hot — and 

 they can be made available for the same purpose even 

 when the occupants of the stalls and boxes are in their 

 places without creating a dangerous draught, for the air 

 can be directed ceilingwards by means of screens or wire 

 blinds. 



Another advantage that sash-windows possess over other 

 kinds is that there is nothing about them to get out of 

 order, except the cords — and these can, of course, be quite 

 readily renewed ; in fact, most handy stablemen are cap- 

 able of effecting such simple repairs without having to 

 enlist the services of outsiders at all. 



I like to see windows glazed with rough plate ; it is ex- 

 tremely strong and durable, and is in every way to be 

 com.mended before the 18-inch glass, which is both frail 

 and shabby. Blinds ought to be fitted to the windows, or 

 outside shutters employed, in order to keep out the heat 

 and glare in summer time. 



Stables should be well lighted. I do not at all approve 

 of the half-and-half system of lighting which generally pre- 

 vails, and I strongly condemn the darkness which is too 

 often to be found in them. I cannot be made to believe 

 that horses, children, flowers, or anything else, can possibly 

 thrive and be healthy in the dark. Abundance of light and 

 air is my maxim, and I smile to myself when I see persons 

 blinking disconsolately in the sunlight, and wondering 

 where the " draughts " are coming from. Those accus- 



