PREFACE. 



It is now quite a number of years since my friend, Mr. Woodworth, 

 made a suggestion that 1 have since tried to follow. He said to me 

 (after seeing the manner in which I handled a wild and nervous horse): 

 "if you will note down from day to day what your experience justifies, 

 in a few years you will be able to give us a book on the horse that will 

 be just what we need." I hope this friend is still living, and if he will 

 write me his criticism of the work, it will be taken as a special favor. 



This book has been written at the suggestion of many strong per- 

 sonal friends, and at the earnest solicitation of hundreds of others by 

 letter. 



It must be borne in mind that the work has been done at odd mo- 

 ments and after the manner suggested above, consequently some may 

 criticise it for the many repetitions or too much stress being laid on 

 principles, natural laws and unerring -methods, but it is the author's 

 firm conviction that these very things will serve as monuments to his 

 memory, with those who will read the book and comply with its sug- 

 gestions. 



For the want of a better name (at the suggestion of a personal 

 friend), it is christened HORSE SENSE, and it is the most sincere 

 desire of the author that the work or book fully justifies so good a name. 



The questions and answers in the veterinary department are designed 

 to meet the wants of many who are not favored with having the veter- 

 inary surgeon at easy call, but it should be understood that where com- 

 petent veterinary skill can be had, the seriously sick horse should be 

 in his hands. 



A grateful acknowledgement is hereby offered to those who have 

 assisted, encouraged and sustained the author in what they are pleased 

 to call a commendable labor for mankind, our horses and the country 

 generally. 



J. C CURRYER. 



