BATTLES, HITCHING, ETC. 343 



by wearing the rattles once in a while. These are only to 

 be put on occasionally, as their every-day use would defeat 

 the object we have in view ; the novelty would soon wear 

 away, and the only thing gained would be the added 

 weight. Some cover rattles with chamois skins, to prevent 

 them chafing the skin. I would rather protect that by a 

 thin piece of leather or cloth tied on by itself, as the 

 covering injures the flexibility of the rattles, and the noise 

 the beads make striking against each other induces higher 

 action, than would be the case if the noise did not accom- 

 pany their use. 



Oriole had better have her fast work in short brushes, 

 and whenever she shows an inclination to hitch, pull her 

 up, and start her again. I have seen horses that would 

 hitch when going at moderate speed, and when driven 

 faster would go as true, and square as could be desired. 

 Oriole, being anxious to do all, or more than is required, 

 hitches in endeavoring to take a longer stride. This is 

 more favorable than if she had acquired it by pulling 

 heavy weight, which would be harder to set right. Ma- 

 vourneen will have to be driven according to your discre- 

 tion. I am afraid she will not repay you as well for the 

 time spent as the others, but one can never prophesy very 

 confidently about trotting colts. Those we think the least 

 of may change in their way of going, and surprise us by 

 beating others that seemed greatly superior. 



