DRIVING 217 



accidents he has had. I don't wonder at it, if he handles 

 the ribbons the same with all the horses entrusted to his 

 care. 



Always glance round the harness and rein-billets 

 before getting into the trap ; never rely on anyone : 

 always satisfy yourself. The reins should be held in the 

 left hand — ^the left rein passing over the forefinger 

 and the right rein lying between the second and 

 third fingers. The thumb is always on top. The right 

 hand can assist when driving through traffic by lightly 

 taking hold of the right rein in front of the left hand. 

 Do not hang on too tightly to the reins ; just feel the 

 horse's mouth — ^give and take. 



Keep the horse going well up to the bit, keeping 

 the reins steady. Click him or give a stroke with the 

 whip ; never jerk or snatch the reins, as most bad 

 drivers do when they want the horse to go faster. Drive 

 fast and stop often. Never allow the horse to break or 

 gallop. When he feels as though he is just going to 

 " break up " or " bobble," draw the reins tight and stop 

 him. 



Never use a bearing-rein if the horse carries his head 

 badly; drive him with an "over-check" for a few 

 weeks. This will teach him to carry his head in the 

 right place. If the horse throws his head use the Irish 



