SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 



511 



stirrup iron afford a firm rest to the foot of the rider, if it be not disposed 

 to glide away from the pressure of the boot, and if it be as light as pos- 

 sible, but nevertheless possesses the strength necessary for its purposes. 

 All these intentions are embodied in a plain, three-barred stirrup iron, 

 which presents an ample surface of bearing, while, being slightly rough- 

 ened upon its upper surface, it is readily retained by pressure ; but for 

 the strength of the article the respectability of the salesman must afford 

 the only possible guarantee. 



Also appended to the saddle is an adjunct frequently of no inconsid- 

 erable utility in the field. It is comparatively of modern invention, and 

 is known as the hunting breast-plate. One extremity is attached by 

 means of a hold to each side of the saddle, near to the pommel. The 

 straps proceeding thence are short, and soon unite, when the medium of 

 junction proceeds to the chest. The two leathers, one from either side, 

 are there joined to a single strap, which, after passing between the fore- 

 legs, is finally attached to the girth. The intention of this addition is 

 to retain the saddle in its proper situation, an object not always easy to 

 accomplish even with this provision, as high withers and violent mus- 

 cular exertion naturally incline to its backward movement. 



& HUNTINQ BREAST-PLATB. 



The breast-plate, for the full development of its use, necessitates much 

 care in the groom when caparisoning the quadruped. The two short 

 upper straps, on which all stress must center, join directly under the 

 windpipe. Because of this all parts necessitate the most accurate adjust- 

 ment ; where a breast-plate is used, the servant should particularly notice 



