THE PIAFFERS. BACKING. 207 



the contact. Both these piaffers can be ob- 

 tained from all horses; but as this is among 

 the great difficulties, perfect tact is indispens- 

 able. 



4. To back with an equal elevation of 

 tJie transverse legs, which leave the ground, 

 and are placed again upon it, at the same 

 time; the horse executing the movement ivith 

 as much freedom and facility as if he ivere 

 going forward, and without apparent aid 

 from the rider. 



Backing is not new, but it certainly is 

 new upon the conditions that I lay down. 

 It is only by the aid of a complete suppling 

 and ramener that we succeed in so suspend- 

 ing the horse's body that the distribution of 

 the weight is perfectly regular and the ex- 

 tremities acquire energy and activity alike. 

 This movement then becomes as easy and 

 graceful as it is painful, and devoid of 



