254 



FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 



the backward tendons. Such a position, if long maintained, leads to 

 fatigue, and ultimately induces pain. Man cannot enjoy rest under such 

 a condition of parts ; though both tendon and muscle are benefited by 

 brief tension, continuous strain soon exhausts either structure. The 

 reader must have beheld two travelers meet upon a mountain's side. 

 One shall be descending from the heights, the other is ascending from the 

 valley. But while the men converse, they do not hold their relative 

 positions one to the other. Each, without thought or reflection, ex- 

 changes it for the horizontal situation; while their dialogue lasts, both 

 present their sides to the spectator. 



This is precisely what many horses learn to do. Much indignation 

 is always excited in the groom's bosom because an animal, prompted by 

 its instinct, has discovered a method of easing its limbs and of saving 

 the master's property from injury. Standing for hours upon an acclivity, 

 however gradual, throws stress upon the back sinews, and must pain the 

 tired limbs. To counteract that efiect, the animal turns the head from 



STANDING ACK0S3 THE STALL, 



the manger, and stands across the flooring of the stall, after the same 

 plan as actuated the .two travelers when they paused upon the mountain 



