PREFACE. xm 



test of ''jpracticahiliti/f' then, resides in the sincerity of those 

 endeavors which attempt to embody certain instructions. 

 Where no wish to exemplify exists, of course no teaching 

 can be "practical." The proof, consequently, generally re- 

 poses with the person who advances the accusation, and 

 the accuser is by this prejudice constituted judge of that 

 he has already condemned. 



What is there in the present volume or in the " Horse 

 Doctor" which cannot possibly be enacted, supposing an 

 actuating motive to influence the trial? Nothing can be 

 practical if there be wanting the desire to embody particular 

 directions ; but to ascertain the value of a current phrase, 

 he to whom it is addressed should ask for the special pas- 

 sage to which this condemnation pointedly alludes. If no 

 specific warrant can be produced, a verdict merely founded 

 upon generalities should never be accepted. 

 , The author, when seeking to accomplish the evident pur- 

 pose of the volume, deeply regrets those comments which a 

 regard for correctness has compelled him to offer upon the 

 present race of grooms. He can, however, with sincerity 

 deny that the indulgence of dislike, or the gratification of 

 malice, has induced him to travel beyond the limits of his 

 subject. The men in this capacity occupy an unfortunate 

 position. They and their interests range , in the foremost 

 rank of existing wrong. It is impossible to amend the 

 regulations of any modern stable without removing some 

 of this calling, or overthrowing some of the abuses, with a 

 perpetuation of which the stable servant and his perquisites 

 are directly involved. An earnest desire for improvement, 

 therefore, compelled the review of that class who, if un- 

 assailed, were interested to be the most strenuous advocates 



