THE BEST SEASON FOR BREAKING. 69 



can not only be ridden without hurt before three years old, 

 but at two, and even as yearlings, when they are trained. There 

 were in fact a few years ago yearling races, a practice happily 

 proscribed. Schism ran at Shrewsbury, and others at this 

 age, and as far as I know received no hurt from it. 



As to the season at which horses should be broke, a very 

 important subject, our authorities are silent. But common 

 sense supplies the omission, and tells us, that when the ground 

 is soft, then it is fit for this severe preparation. This period 

 may, and most likely will, be in different years at different times 

 between July and September, and even as late as October. 



But if the ground be soft enough, in July or soon after 

 would be the best time to ride yearlings loose ; or even 

 (if thought desirable) those that are fit enough may be 

 tried before the winter sets in. But in respect to trials the 

 majority would be of necessity in a backward condition, and 

 the following spring would be soon enough — ^just before the 

 March races, should the colts be wanted so soon. On the 

 other hand, the trials of those having engagements late, 

 may be deferred until nearer the time of running, when 

 a more satisfactory result may be obtained than by trying 

 early as yearlings. Yearlings are broke, I know, as early 

 as June, whilst the ground is hard as adamant — a practice 

 I cannot but think hazardous and one that should not be 

 followed ; for they must feel the ill-effects of galloping and 

 plunging in trying to free themselves from the tackling, on 

 the hard ground without shoes or the least protection to 

 their feet. 



As to the age when horses should be broke, there is, as I 

 have said, a diversity of opinions ; but most thoroughbred 

 horses are broke as yearlings, which I think the best age : 

 whilst some few agree with the practice as given by Buffon 



