142 TRIALS. 



condemned as a rogue, particularly if tried again in the 

 same way with the same result as before. In this manner 

 many horses that subsequently have distinguished themselves 

 over a different course, have been injudiciously parted with, 

 as useless, for a mere song. 



Running like this very naturally appears to those who 

 suffer through it, quite unaccountable. But a little reflection 

 will clear up the seeming mystery, and set things in their 

 proper light. The simple fact is, that having tried two miles 

 at a false pace, and then run the same distance in public at a 

 true one, you have based your calculations for a race of two 

 miles on a trial that has been only a mile and a half ; for, 

 under the circumstances, that is all your two-mile trial has in 

 reality amounted to. The result of the running of most 

 horses (except when gross error has been committed) will 

 tell you this ; for over and over again we see horses that 

 have been well tried by experienced men, look like winning 

 the race some distance from home, then tire and be beaten. 

 Now what can this be but the fault of the false pace in 

 the early part of the trial ? for we often see these supposed 

 good stayers win races on a shorter course. 



Whatever the length of the trial, whether half a mile, two 

 miles, or any other distance, all without exception that are in 

 it should be given every chance to win. Should it suit the 

 old ones to wait, or the heavy weights to make the running, 

 let them do it ; but in each and every trial have a good pace 

 from one post to the other, no matter how long the distance. 

 Trials conducted on any other principles than these are sure 

 to lead to error and disappointment. Under any circumstances 

 you cannot be too careful. If there is the least doubt about 

 the accuracy of a trial, I would, after the lapse of a day, try 

 over again, and watch the last more intently if possible than 



