THE LONGE. 101 



the elasticity of the band permits the colt to play with 

 the snaffle, without the danger of abrading the fine 

 skin of liis mouth. If the colt be inclined to carry his 

 head too high, the reins must be fastened low down 

 upon the sides of the roller. If he be inclined to carry 

 his head too low, the reins must be fastened higher up, 

 in some cases, upon the branches of a cross-tree. 



This is the only time when the use of the martingale 

 is to be tolerated, but its branches ought to be made 

 of strong India-rubber bands. 



When the colt has been thus longed in several 

 lessons, place a saddle, without stirrups, very gently 

 upon his back. The saddle must be adjusted with the 

 greatest caution and address, taking great care that 

 the girths be not drawn too tightly. When the colt 

 has become reconciled to the use of it, attach the 

 stirrup leathers first ; and when he has become accus- 

 tomed to them, add the stirrup irons also; these may 

 hang loosely at the ends of the leathers, or may be 

 slided up to the top of them. When the colt has been 

 well schooled in the cavesson, and has learned to trot 

 in the slow and quick pace with regularity and freedom, 

 and is thoroughly docile and tractable, then proceed to 

 mount him. 



