64 HTJIfTIifG COIfDITIOJf. 



to treat upon, First, I propose to define the meaning of the 

 common phrase "Hunting Condition." Secondly, to describe 

 the common practices by which condition of the hunter is 

 obtained. Thirdly, the treatment of the hunter after the 

 severities of the chase, and also shew the rationale of the 

 practices adopted. Fourthly, delicate feeders and their manage- 

 ment. Fifthly, upon those diseases and accidents common to 

 the hunter. Sixthly, upon the preparation of the animal for 

 purgative medicine, the proper drug to use, and the after 

 treatment necessary to pursue. And lastly, I shall conclude 

 with a few remarks upon the liability of the hunter to soreness 

 of the back, and the mode of its prevention ; together with such 

 observations of a general character as may be necessary. 



HuiSTTiis^G CoinDitiots". — By " Hunting Condition'' is meant 

 the existence of tliat state of the organism, in which the physical 

 powers of the animal are ready for the exertion and reasonable 

 maintenance of their highest capabilities of activity. 



Condition is not health, it is something super-added. A 

 horse may be in excellent health, and yet, in the sense defined, 

 totally out of condition ; but he cannot long retain condition 

 and at the same time remain out of health. Condition and 

 health, although difierent, are nevertheless inseparable. The 

 existence of the latter is absolutely necessary to enable the 

 best of trainers to procure the former. To fully discuss this 

 question, however, would lead us far beyond the scope of the 

 present section. I shall, therefore, strictly confine myself to 

 the task of giving an exposition of the practices adopted to 

 obtain condition in those animals comprising the studs of 

 our best hunting establishments. 



Every intelligent groom knows from experience, the dif- 

 ficulties which attend the production of condition, and he also 

 knows the desirableness of retaining the state when produced, 



