2T8 THL SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 



The novice should shun such society; and the gentleman deserves 

 small pity who ventures into such a locality. Let the person who 

 desires to possess a horse, and who can afford to pay for the luxury he 

 covets, enter the premises of some respectable dealer. Let him be pre- 

 pared^to exchange a fair sum for a sound and serviceable animal. Let 

 him never walk into the yard, and wait the appearance of the quad- 

 ruped ; but rather let the would-be purchaser remain near the stall, and 

 observe attentively the groom while the man is putting on the bridle. 

 Some creatures are alarmed when a hand approaches the head — an in- 

 dication, either that the sight is imperfect, that severe punishment has 

 been inflicted, or that the brain may be diseased. This symptom also 

 warrants other suspicions; and it is never suggestive of health or of 

 good treatment. The precautions taken by the man, when going toward 

 the head, will also be characteristic, and may inform the spectator of 

 very much concerning the educated temper and disposition of the nag 

 he contemplates acquiring. 



BACKING ON TO THB GANGWAY. 



Such things, however, being noted, the stranger must still retain his 

 situation. Some horses, though not absolutely "ricked," are neverthe- 

 less stiff in the back. Such quadrupeds are unpleasant to the rider, and 

 are unable to turn in the stall; but whenever their removal becomes 

 imperative, they are backed out on to the gangway, and then turned 

 toward the door. A stiffened spine can be no recommendation, but it 



