24 HORSEMANSHIP. 



that we are tempted to forget their cruelty until we 

 find the fine skin is destroyed, and the mouth filled 

 with foam and blood. In the halt, the horse must be 

 gradually brought to the full stop, pressing him well 

 up to the bridle, to prevent him from halting in a 

 straggling manner. The practice of bringing the horse 

 suddenly to the full stop in the canter and gallop, is 

 productive of much mischief; more especially to the 

 young horse, in whom it causes strains, wind-galls, 

 spavins, and curbs. 



HOW TO DISMOUNT. 



Take hold of the reins with the right hand, and slide 

 the left hand down upon the neck ; let the right hand 

 then drop the reins ; twist a lock of the mane round the 

 thumb or fore-finger of the left hand, and close the 

 hand ; take the right foot out of the stirrup ; place 

 the right hand upon the right side of the pommel, and 

 supporting the weight of the body upon the right 

 hand and left foot, bring the right leg gently over the 

 hind quarters, the right hand seizing the cantle of 

 the saddle, as the body descends to the ground upon 

 the ball of the right foot. 



