HORSES TO JUMP 59 



gravity (this is, of course, only approxi- 

 mate as the centre of gravity moves 

 during locomotion), which helps the 

 horse to balance himself. Under these 

 conditions he should jump as well as 

 when free. 



(2) The lower part of the legs are free to be 

 applied to the horse when necessary. 



(3) It is easy to give the horse more rein if 

 required ; also to give him the office at 

 the right moment. 



(4) There is small likelihood of interfering 

 with the horse's balance by inadvertently 

 touching his mouth. 



(5) The horse's hindquarters are free ; he can 

 easily raise his forehand if i\\Q position 

 of the weight carried is constant. 



(6) The rider can lean forward or back as 

 required on landing. 



(7) He can never be jumped off or be unseated 

 by a horse taking off previous to his 

 anticipation. His seat being just off 

 the saddle he does not feel the concussion 

 as he would if sitting down in the 

 saddle. 



Still, it is important not to exaggerate the 

 forward seat, or it will, like the laying-back 

 seat, be found to have its drawbacks. 



