18 UNASKED ADVICE. 



Witli the right bridle and a new-fashioned and well- 

 fitting saddle, both properly put on, our horse may be 

 brought round to the door ; and it only remains to dress 

 the lady and put her in the saddle. 



Whilst the lady^s horse was being saddled, it is to be 

 presumed that the proprietor was costuming herself for 

 her ride. This, like everything else, is a simple per- 

 formance enough when the performer knows how to 

 go about the matter in hand ; but those who are 

 thoroughly au fait as regards dressing for riding, are 

 in a decided minority. Even ladies who have excel- 

 lent taste in all questions of dismounted costume not 

 unfrequently make sad guys of themselves in an equestrian 

 get-up. I am of opinion, and my idea is confirmed by 

 several individuals best entitled to an opinion on the 

 subject, that the most handy and simple dress is some- 

 thing as follows : 



Beginning with the hat, we can only say regarding it 

 that whatever is (the fashion) is best. A " chimney-pot,^' 

 not too high in the crown, at present appears to be the 

 mode, and for my own part I hope it may continue so — at 

 all events until we are all tired of it. It is becoming to 

 almost, if not quite, all faces ; it keeps on, and is a certain 

 protection against such a thing as the bough of a tree. 

 In all cases a riding hat of any kind requires an elastic 

 band, which, going under the hair behind, fastens it on ; 

 and a narrow velvet band sewn on to the lining, so as to 

 intervene between it and the head, will greatly aid in 

 this object. A chimney-pot hat has the advantage over 

 others, that when it fits perfectly it may be worn without 

 one. A veil is generally part of the head-dress, and 

 people may please themselves as to colour, quality, and, 

 indeed, shape and size — a black veil with " tails,^' which 



