CHAPTER XXIV, 



HARNESS. ITS SELECTION AND CARE. 



THE QUALITY OF LEATHER — QUALITY OF WORKMANSHIP— THE COLLAR — THE 

 TRACES— THE BRIDLE— THE BIT— THE SADDLE — THE GIRTHS— THE CRUPPER 

 — THE BREECHING- -THE HOLDBACKS— THE REINS AND MARTINGALE -THE 

 MOUNTING— HOW TO HARNESS AND UNHARNESS THE HORSE— THE CARE OF 

 HARNESS — CLEANING THE PLATING- 



All who drive are interested in tlie subject of harness — 

 ifbt only those who, keeping their own carriages or busi- 

 ness wagons, have to procure and maintain one or more 

 sets of harness, but, in a less degree, those who have to 

 trust their valuable persons to the fidelity of strap and 

 buckle. The horse-keeper, from motives of economy, 

 should acquire such knowledge of the quality of leather' 

 and workmanship, and of the best means of preserving 

 harness in sound condition, as will enable him to purchase 

 as wisely, and as seldom as possible. While those who 

 ride in hired vehicles should be able to assure themselves 

 of the safety of the harness by which they are drawn. 



It is the object of this chapter to give as much informa- 

 tion concerning harness, as can be comprised within its 

 limited space, by general remarks on the quality of mate- 

 rials and workmanship ; descriptions of the various parts 

 of the harness ; and directions for keeping the leather, 

 bits, buckles, &c., in the best possible condition for safety, 

 durability, and good appearance. 



Note.— Ill preparing this chai'tcr wo have been greatly aided by Messrs. J. T. Smith 

 & Co., of 342 and 344 Broadway. The saddles, harness, bits, etc., ilhistrated in this 

 work, were naainly selected from th-.ir extensive stock. 



