114 HORSEMANSHIP. 



strains, the soundness and proper formation of the 

 feet and legs, and the rotundity and symmetry of 

 the body. 



If circumstances will permit, our first critical ex- 

 amination should take place in the stable ; and there we 

 may find the true nature of his secretions, and learn 

 if there be a tendency to crib-biting, wind-sucking, 

 or a propensity to viciousness. In the stable also we 

 invariably witness, when in a state of repose, the true 

 external symptoms of organic disease in the pointed 

 fore-leg, the continual shifting of one or the other of 

 the fore-feet, and the spasmodic upheaving of the ribs, 

 and the labouring flank ; therefore let every wliip be 

 kept quiet, and every voice be silenced ; above all, 

 do not allow the application of spiced condiments to 

 excite the dormant faculties of the noble beast. 



Observe the horse narrowly as he is turned round 

 in his stall ; for if there be any derangement of the 

 spine, this movement will generally exhibit it; and 

 when brought to the light, let him pause at the 

 threshold, and examine the ears, the eyes, the nostrils, 

 the teeth, the chest, the arms, the knees, the fore-legs, 

 and the hoofs. Some persons are extremely critical 

 upon the size, shape, setting on, and motion of the ears. 



