LOCATION OF STABLES. 249 



that barh is larger than in our long " shed " stables, 

 where every box is independent. This barn is built 

 on the usual plan — divided by two wide transverse 

 aisles crossing each other in the center of the building, 

 the boxes opening into them. The boxes are boarded 

 up to the usual height, then divided by open work, and 

 the space and shafts above are ample for perfect 

 ventilation. But from the very nature of barns of this 

 character there are always drafts, and you cannot 

 regulate the air and temperature of each box. In the 

 rows of single-story stables, where each box is a com- 

 plete section, with its own door and window, you can 

 regulate it to suit each horse just according as you 

 wish to give him air, or protect him from drafts after 

 work, etc. Then, agam, there is greater safety, as each 

 box is completely divided from its neighbors. Disease 

 is not so apt to spread, and in case of fire you have a 

 better chance to save horses. I would for many 

 reasons rather have two or more small detached barns 

 than one yevy large one. 



As far as location goes I would only say : Have your 

 stables convenient to the track, and on high, dry 

 ground. It is better that they should face the south. 

 When, as in so great a proportion of our stabling at 

 Palo Alto, the boxes have independent doors opening 

 to the outside world, it will be more pleasant to have a 

 southern exposure, expecially in lands less favored 

 with sunny weather than California. We have half- 

 doors, and it will please you to notice, how on a fine 

 afternoon, the horse likes to stand b}^ his door, and 

 with his head and neck protruding rejoice in the pure, 

 sweet air, and watch all that is going on. Have a 



