26 



when they show some confidence, and 

 strength of seat, they should be required 

 to ride without stirrups. The latter exer- 

 cise is absolutely necessary if an indepen- 

 dent seat is to be acquired. Riding 

 without stirrups, if persevered in, secures 

 the rider's balance, and so does away with 

 the need, that many riders feel, of hanging 

 on by the bridle], i 



RIDING WITHOUT SADDLES. 



Mounting and Dismounting with Numnahs. 

 The recruits will then be practised in 

 mounting and dismounting. The reins 

 having been put over the horse's head, and 

 hanging evenly on his neck, the word will 

 be given. 



" Prepare to Mount." 



On this caution, each man will turn to 

 the right, step six inches to the right, and 

 close the left heel. 



He will hold the reins equally divided 

 in the full of the left hand, which will be 

 placed on the horse's withers. The right 

 arm will be laid on the horse's loins, the 

 forearm being well to the off side, and the 

 fingers of the right hand closed. 



