86 THE PRACTICAL HORSE KEEPER. 



Tuam (Co. Galway), October 20th and 22nd. 



Occasionally at these fairs a good cob can be bought, but of 

 all classes of horses shown at fairs the most difficult to procure 

 is a weight-carrying hunter, or a weight-carrying cob; the 

 reason is that there is a limited number of that class bred, and 

 there is a great demand for them at the same time. Cobs vary 

 in price from 20 to 50, but there are very few at any fair 

 that realise the latter amount. 



It may be remarked, with regard to the prices of horses in 

 general, that hunters seldom bring more than 200 at a fair ; 

 the reason is that there are dealers in Ireland, as well as in 

 England, and whenever they can find a weight-carrying hunter, 

 with good shoulders and good manners, they buy him, knowing 

 the demand there is for that kind of horse ; there is no need to 

 go to a fair to sell him. Hunters at fairs are generally up to 

 from eleven to fourteen stone, and their price will vary from 

 60 to 130. Hacks and harness horses of the better class 

 average from 40 to 60 ; match horses, if they have good 

 action, being more expensive. Cobs vary in price according to 

 their size, shape and action ; but from 25 to 40 will buy the 

 majority of them. Really good cobs up to weight are scarce, 

 while good prices are difficult to obtain. 



In conclusion, it may be stated that it is difficult and 

 hazardous b lying horses at fairs ; no matter how careful and 

 skilled purchasers may be, they are deceived occasionally. 



BUYING FROM HORSE DEALERS. 



Perhaps the most satisfactory procedure for the less ex- 

 perienced to adopt in horse-buying, is to resort to a dealer of 

 good repute, and place yourself in his hands telling him what 

 you want and the price you are willing to pay. If he will find 

 the horse, allow a trial of him, and a veterinary examination, 

 what more can be desired? If sound and suitable, and the 



