2S0 



FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 



in their power to counteract the evils which the slanting nature of the 

 flooring has a tendency to produce. Such steeds lean first upon one foot 

 and then upon the other ; thus the entire weight bears alternately upon 

 either hoof, while each is in turn released from all pressure. If not 

 checked, quadrupeds will often continue thus employed for hours. The 

 creatures know nothing concerning the structures of their own bodies; 

 but the most learned physiologist could not have invented any plan bet- 

 ter calculated to supply the pumping action which accompanies the 

 walk, and promotes a healthy circulation, thus securing soundness to 

 the hoof 



Indeed, human intelligence would appear to be incapable of appre- 

 ciating the benefit which must result from the simple artifice of an inferior 

 being. The animal which is detected when endeavoring to correct the 

 evils of mortal perversity, is always severely punished. The indulgence 

 is, by the pure mind of the groom, recognized as a wicked "vice," and 

 is stigmatized under the term of "weaving." The highly intelligent 



/ 



horse is fiercely lashed for laboring to prevent the consequences of man's 

 stupidity, and for striving to improve its master's property, while solac- 

 ing its confinement, by an act as harmless as it is innocent. 



A creature standing on a slanting floor, with the head pointing to the 

 most elevated part of the incline, occupies the same relative situation 



