GENTLEMEN COACHMEN. 385 



led to a different sort of coach horse, and the change is 

 much for the better. The great Yorkshire horse is 

 become obsolete, and those nearly, or quite, thorough- 

 bred have taken their place. The great size and long 

 action of the former rendered them unpleasant to drive ; 

 whereas the smartness and activity of the latter render 

 them quite delightful ; and — which is by no means un- 

 grateful to the driver — they appear to be going faster 

 than they really are. 



A gentleman's coaching establishment should not 

 be lower than ten horses. These will ensure him two 

 teams, and two rest-horses in case of accidents which, in 

 the most careful hands, will sometimes occur. He should 

 have two complete sets of harness for his own work, as 

 also one for his break — an article he should never be 

 without. A head coachman who knows his business, 

 and two strong helpers under him, will keep all things 

 clean and in their places. 



In gentleman's work, as well as on the road, a tool- 

 box is a necessary appendage, to keep the drag moving. 

 It should contain a strong screw-wrench ; wheel and 

 spring clips ; a spring shackle or two, with bolts and 

 nuts ; two chains — one for a trace, and the other shorter, 

 with a ring at one end and hook at the other, in case of 

 a tug giving way : and a short strap, with a buckle at 

 each end, should always be carried with a coach, as in 

 case of almost any part of the reins, or indeed most parts 

 of the harness, breaking, it comes into use in a moment. 

 The coachman should have it in his pocket. 



Before I take leave of gentlemen coachmen, I must 



c c 



