S4 Centaur ; 



corned animals there to be found, from year's end to year*8 

 end, and which so seldom see day-light that they become 

 restive at the appearance of strangers, and blind and 

 almost mad if drawn up into the light of day. The amount of 

 work these horses are capable of doing, and the good condition 

 in which they are invariably kept, is a striking example to 

 many above ground, especially when it is considered that 

 they are principally controlled or driven by mere lads. Of 

 course there are properl}^ qualified persons appointed to 

 superintend the horses, and look after their food, health, &c., 

 and it must be admitted that the general appearance of 

 underground horses reflects great credit upon those concerned, 

 and speaks volumes in favour of the system adopted and 

 thoroughly practised in some collieries. 



The stables in connection with the Cannock Chase Colliery 

 Company's Mines, and many others in that district, would 

 surprise most persons accustomed to horses and stable 

 routine on the surface. Down the one pit alone the writer 

 has seen as many as 150 horses — all fat and happj^ — seem- 

 iugly far more contented than many to be seen in our streets, 

 which alone is the result of the excellent rules laid down by 

 the managers, and adhered to bj^ the horse-keepers. Every- 

 thing caculated to contribute to their comfort and safet}^ or, 

 in other words, for the welfare of all concerned below is well 

 considered; special attention is given to gas lighting, white- 

 washing, ventilation, and cleanliness. 



The dray horses of the Midland Railway Company are 

 particularly noticeable for their clean and sleek condition. 

 Regular attention appears to be paid to the harness — it 

 being always kept thoroughly supple and sound. The con- 

 tented manner in which the horses stand in the public 

 streets (in all weathers), for loading and unloading the 

 drays and wagons, and without winkers* in the bridles ; and 

 the frequent conversation and even caresses that at times 

 ma}" be seen passing between man and horse, is a pleasing 

 and instructive example to thousands of carters and drivers 

 of other teams. 



A good system is adopted by Messrs. Allsopp & Sons, the 

 eminent brewers of Burton-on-Trent, towards their horses, 

 which, like others belonging to several noted firms in that 

 locality, and in Liverpool and Manchester and other large 

 cities, affords ample proof of what horses can learn and 

 will do under proper treatment. 



♦ In some parts they are called blinkers. 



