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HOW TO CROSS STREAMS. 



In fording waters the rider should make a point 

 of following some one else at a respectable distance, 

 and if it become unpleasantly deep he can change 

 his course without getting a ducking, which is not 

 particularly enjoyable on a November morning. Of 

 course it must be borne in mind that the rider can- 

 not always have his own way, and occasionally he 

 may be placed in the same position as the two ladies 

 who asked a half-witted lad if he would be oblig- 

 ing enough to go * upon the ice to test its strength 

 before beginning to skate, but who, looking up with 

 a knowing smile, replied — '' Na, na ! ladies aye get 

 the preference." Therefore, if, Hke the ladies on the 

 ice, the rider has to take the initiative in fording 

 water he should always look out for a shallow with 

 an easy landing-place and should keep the colt's head 

 inclined up the stream. 



HOW TO AVOID MARSHES. 



The same directions may be followed in regard 

 to bogs and marshes. An experienced eye can gen- 

 erally detect them from the smooth-looking verdure 

 which covers the hidden and treacherous swamp ; 

 but if the rider should be caught unawares he must 

 dismount at once in order to relieve the colt of his 

 weight, and assist him out as speedily as possible. 

 He should be careful not to turn the colt too abruptly 

 or he will twist and sprain him to a dangerous degree, 

 indeed, it is an easy matter for the colt to break one 



