The Hand. 35 



sider how this can be most effectually and 

 most expeditiously done. 



i . Riding on the Snaffle. A plain Snaffle is 

 a bit consisting simply of a single cylindrical 

 bar, jointed in the centre and secured across 

 the horse's mouth. When the snaffle rein is 

 pulled, the bit presses the horse's bars if his 

 head is in its natural place, and the corners of 

 his mouth if his nose is thrown up or thrust 

 out. The natural position of an ordinary 

 horse, having a plain snaffle in his mouth, is 

 with his neck nearly straight at an angle of 

 about forty-five degrees above the horizon, 

 and his head at a right angle to his neck. 

 The plain snaffle, if judiciously used, is quite 

 sufficient to control the horse's direction and 

 to regulate his pace ; but it has no power to 

 bend or collect him into the attitude which 

 makes his rider most completely master of 

 his movements. The latter operation of the 

 hand must therefore be discussed at a future 

 opportunity. 



Begin by putting a plain snaffle on your 

 horse, and adjust your bridle before you let 

 him move. Place yourself with the upper arms 



D 2 



