i8^ 



CHAPTER XVIII. 



RACING AND RACEHORSES. 



Racing is a universal sport which is indulged in 

 more or less by all classes of the community. Into 

 its attractions and evils there is no need here to enter. 

 We shall, however, endeavour to point out the merits 

 of a beau-ideal racehorse, and give a few hints on how 

 to manage him. 



THE CHIEF POINTS OF A THOROUGHBRED COLT. 



The colt should be in possession of a small head, 

 broad between the eyes, clean, open jaws, and a small, 

 tapering muzzle. His eyes should be full, generous, 

 and prominent, showing plenty of fire when the colt 

 is put upon his mettle. His ears should be small, 

 tapering, and inclining towards each other at the tips 

 when erect. His nostrils should be delicate and 

 curved, with broad, expansive cavities, and when dis- 

 tended they should appear almost transparent at the 

 edges. His neck should be long, lean, and planted 

 on a set of oblique shoulders, with good play. He 

 should have a moderately long, straight back, with 

 strong, well-developed, muscular quarters. He should 



