262 FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 



naturo had empowered it to employ. A more unwholesome, a more 

 unnatural, or a more dangerous abode for any of the equine race than 

 the stall of a modern stable, it would be impossible for the utmost 

 stretch of the most excited malignity to imagine. Still, daily accidents, 

 which must have occurred for centuries, seem to be incapable of instruct- 

 ing mankind, where the welfare of another and of an inferior being is 

 concerned ! 



Animals have been lamed ; have lost the power of vision ; have bred 

 terrible disorders, and have been found stretched in death upon the straw 

 bed, in consequence of the folly which has persisted in building modern 

 stables. Such accidents must, as a necessity, continue so long as these 

 edifices are erected. They are totally unsuited for the creature which 

 they torture, cripple, and confine. Yet, because such abominations are 

 sanctioned by custom and approved by ignorance, it is far more than 

 probable that the author's exposure of their unfitness will be read with 

 amusement, and admitted to be just ; but the scourge which is recom- 

 mended by its existence and patronized for its convenience will still be 

 perpetuated. It may continue to disgrace this country for more than 

 another century, although the judicious outlay of a few- shillings would 

 greatly amend even modern stables. Banish the stalls, and divide the 

 interior into loose boxes. Lower the mangers and the hay racks to the 

 floor. Soften the food before presenting it to the quadruped; and 

 abolish the loft, now placed over where the animals repose. Allow the 

 entire space, from the ground to the roof, for the huge lungs to breathe 

 in. Improve the drainage. Warm the building by means of a slow 

 combustion and by water pipes. To effect all this should not cost very 

 much ; and, as his reward, man would gain the longer service of his 

 slave, together with an inward approval, springing from a consciousness 

 of having done his duty toward the meekness which Beneficence has 

 intrusted to his keeping. 



