198 PRECEPT AKD PRACTICE. 



and where the struck one is hit. As in his walk, if 

 the paint remains as it was put on, we must infer it 

 is in his canter or gallop that the collision takes place. 

 Having ascertained this most indispensable fact, we 

 must then endeavour to prevent it, or, at least, palliate 

 its effects. 



People attach a far greater degree of inevitable 



danger and likelihood to horses coming down from 



catting than (objectionable as the failing is) is 



absolutely the case. When the horse cuts or hits 



his leg, the pain occasioned by it causes him to wince, 



falter, and, indeed, I have seen a horse go a step or 



two after the occurrence, absolutely on three legs ; 



but the fear of falling is greater than the pain of the 



hit leg, and he mostly saves himself. This is when 



he cuts or hits his ankle only. But if he hits just 



below the inside of the knee, which he never does 



but in a quick pace, he will then sometimes come 



down as if he was shot. This is appropriately called 



"speedy cutting" — the worst and most dangerous 



failing among all cutting, and one that is incurable. 



For this reason : it proceeds from a particular direc- 



