3t2 HORSE DEALERS. 



wliether these are equal to his desires. He sees a horse run up and 

 down the ride; observes its manner of going; notes its make, shape, 

 and height; remarks its color; ascertains the price, and roughly esti- 

 mates its qualities. But he had better not finger the animal, or attempt 

 to investigate matters which concern more than his personal approval. 

 Having seen these things, when the dealer begins to talk, he had better 

 turn upon his heel, and do no more than order the quadruped to be taken 

 to the veterinary surgeon who may be honored with his confidence. 



The horse dealer generally feels his opportunity has opened when the 

 gentleman meddles with matters which he does not fully comprehend ; 

 and very few gentlemen are qualified to act as veterinary surgeons. By 

 adhering to the above plan, the purchaser is the more likely to please 

 himself by his selection, and is certainly less likely to be imposed upon. 

 The attention is steadily fixed upon the individual points of recommenda- 

 tion, and the mind refuses to enter upon scientific questions concerning 

 which the non -professional man cannot be instructed. 



The examiaation being passed, before the money is paid the quad- 

 ruped is either saddled or harnessed, and is tried by the contemplating 

 purchaser. When mounted upon or when sitting behind a strange 

 horse, no person should indulge any attempt at display. The object 

 being to ascertain the acquirements of the steed, the rider should allow 

 free scope to its humors, and should encourage its confidence. Employ 

 neither whip nor spur. Reject such articles, if they are offered. A 

 good animal will necessitate no coercion; but severity may, possibly, 

 disguise either good or bad qualities. Should chastisement be impera- 

 tive, refuse to administer it ; but reject a sluggish animal. Allow the 

 reins to be almost loose : let the creature go its own pace, and take its 

 own road : watch every movement, however, and carry the bridle hand 

 ready to check or to support, should either become necessary. 



A lively and desirable nag should answer to the voice. Often the 

 intention will be comprehended, when no sound is uttered. There is a 

 speedy and mysterious freemasonry soon established between an intelli- 

 gent nag and a proficient equestrian. This, it is desirable, should be 

 developed. When the rider or driver is seated, he should reject all 

 further service from the groom. Permit the horse to walk, trot, canter, 

 gallop or bolt out of the yard : should it go quietly, watch its head and 

 ears as it passes through the gateway. Many young quadrupeds will 

 be alarmed during such a passage; some will evince their feeling by 

 very demonstrative behavior. Therefore, allow no man to hold the 

 rein, and, under a pretense of attention to the gentleman, give confi- 

 dence to the nag, now controlled by a strange master. 



Should the first trial not answer expectation, the treaty ought not 



