TROTTING OUT. 125 



logs from the hocks to the fetlocks very long and strong ; 

 the fetlocks and pasterns quite free from enlargements, 

 and possesshig great power. 



In putting the horse through his paces, be positive to 

 have his head held with a very loose rein. If possible, 

 do not allow any excitement to be used in the flourish 

 and cracking of whips, or the rattling of hats, &c. The 

 pace of the walk should be bold and free. The knee to 

 be well bent, and the foot raised clear from the ground, 

 and darted straight to the front, placing it down without 

 any flinching or hesitation. When the hind-feet well 

 overstep the fore-feet, it bespeaks the horse to have 

 good or even great speed. The walk is generally con- 

 sidered the sure index to all the other paces. In the 

 trot the fore-leg should be well raised and thrown 

 straight to the front ; any deviation is an imperfection. 

 Nevertheless many persons prefer that the feet have a 

 slight turn outwards before they be placed on the 

 ground. Be careful to have the horse trotted out on 

 rough pavement, with his head quite free. 



Having satisfied yourself in your examination, mount 

 the horse in the stable yard, and proceed to try him on 

 the roads both in town and country. In emerging from 

 the stable yard, allow the horse to choose his own 



