200 CHECK LINE. 



up again over his forehead and between his ears. The two ropes 

 must be loosely tied together with loose loops of small rope, one 

 on the forehead and one behind the ears, the latter being 

 securely fixed to the head of the bridle. If a ring were fixed in 

 the top of the bridle for this purpose it is rather better than 

 a loop. Bring the I'opes back through some secure rings, or 

 ropes, or straps on the saddle, to a strong ring on the rump, 

 about fifteen inches from the root of the tail. From this rump 

 ring bring down one rope on each side and tie securely to the 

 shafts, leaving no more slack than is necessary to let the horse 

 move freely. The traces and breeching must be so hitched that 

 the horse cannot get far forwards or backwards, so as to much 

 alter the position or tightness of the rope. With a powerful 

 bridle and strong reins, you may now take your seat behind the 

 horse in a carriage with a powerful break at your command. 

 Your assistant may then let down the foot and yon may drive 

 away. If the horse attempts to kick he cannot succeed, and 

 will punish himself so severely in the mouth that he will not try 

 many times. 



454. — This is a rough lesson and one that will never be 

 necessary except with a horse that has been spoiled, or allowed 

 to hurt himself in harness. Whilst the check line is on try 

 everything that is likely to set him kicking and let him clearly 

 see the instant and invariable connection between kicking and 

 punishing his own mouth. When you cannot provoke the horse 

 to kick any more in that gear, you may alter it by fastening 

 the check line to each side of his bit, instead of crossing it in his 

 mouth. You may drive him in that way for several days, and 

 when that is discontinued, a secure, well-placed, common kicking 

 strap should be used for a long time, or until you are quite sure 

 that there is no disposition left to kick. If at any time he should 

 attempt to kick with the common kicking strap on, put on the 

 punishing gear again, and let him give himself another lesson. 

 This will make the most dangerous horse quiet enough for ordinary 

 purposes, and will keep him safe with constant hard work, but 

 such horses are often liable to kick again after a long rest, or in 

 very frisky condition, or under any special provocation, and 



