BKEAKING. 83 



This filly's dam I knew nothing about, she having been 

 fpnnd astray on the large bottom at the junction of a 

 river with the Mississippi. As you will perceive, her form 

 is good, though her temper is more sluggish than any 

 other of her sire's get. When first harnessed, she seemed 

 to know just what was wanted of her; and anxious to 

 obey, she takes very naturally to trotting, possessing a 

 right handy step; but when forced to go faster, will roll 

 and hitch, trying her best to go as fast as wanted, before 

 she leaves her feet. 



PEECEPTOE. I would not be surprised if this strongly 

 made, quiet filly, made the fastest or rather the most re- 

 liable trotter in the string. From her general appearance 

 she has undoubtedly plenty of resolution when aroused. 

 Her docility of temper is a great assistance already gained, 

 as those that are as nervous as Delle and Mavourneen 

 require very careful usage to overcome its bad effects. 

 You must be careful not to spoil the naturally handy step 

 by forcing her to what you yet cannot expect her to do. 

 A good breaker is a great advantage in a race when you 

 can force him along at the topmost rate without being 

 fearful of the consequences of leaving his feet, which if 

 he does is no detriment. But we all know how trying it 

 is for the judges to withstand the clamor of, " See him 

 run;" "He gained every time he broke;" "Set him back 

 according to rule, and he will not win the heat." I am 

 well aware that very few, even among the good breakers, 

 gain anything by breaking, if the drivers do their duty by 

 endeavoring to catch them at once. Yet it is a matter of 

 great annoyance to owners, and judges as well as drivers, 

 to listen to the complaints of those who, having at the 

 outside five dollars invested in the race, make more noise 

 and disturbance than others losing thousands. I there- 

 fore always try to teach my horses not to break, but to 

 depend on a steady, constant trot, that will carry them 



