t t 



nature ; and we are reminded of tales once heard of the 

 Horse Charmers in Ireland, who were said to be able, by 

 merely humming or singing some words or notes close to 

 the animal's ear, to tame the most vicious or restive horse 

 that could be brought to them. 



The author has personally tried several experiments 

 with his own steeds at various times and places, which 

 conclusively prove the theory propounded above, and 

 corroborates the experiences just narrated. For instance, 

 he has on several occasions, while his animal was cantering 

 round the field in which it was turned out to graze, com- 

 menced playing upon a miniature cornet, when the animal 

 would suddenly stop and prick up its ears as though 

 listening most attentively to the melodious strains of the 

 instrument ; and has also, when the animal — a beautiful 

 bay mare — was in her loose box in the stable, caused the 

 door to be thrown open and at the same time he has opened 

 his sitting room window and commenced playing an air on 

 the pianoforte, when the mare would immediately leave 

 the stable and come trotting and neighing directly to the 

 window whence the sounds emanated, an illustration 

 which goes far to prove that music, which is said to 

 possess " charms to soothe the savage breast," has a 

 wonderful and lasting effect on the equidoe. 



•A ^ — . a- 



