78 FLAT-RACinO EXPLAINED. 



possible to handicap a given number of horses by 

 computation of weight on equal competitive terms. 

 But to make this apply as a matter of principle, 

 without reservation, to all horses, would be futile 

 in the extreme. 



As I have pointed out, I am afraid by too frequent 

 repetition, there are only a limited number of horses 

 liaving racing merit not confined to a particular 

 character of ground. Thus, when it has to be 

 borne in mind tliat every course differ.^, the practi- 

 cal assimilation of weight, to satisfy all conditions 

 on this score alone, if not beyond human conception, 

 must needs drift into that sphere, when con pled 

 with it are the characteristics and adaptabilitlc s of 

 horses to ground, subject to climatic variety or 

 change, such as is experienced. _^ 



Handicaps by the method employed of adjust- 

 ing the weiglit horses shall carry over a certain dis- 

 tance of ground, may have advantages in providing 

 amusement as an equine spectacle. When put for- 

 ward, however, to be regarded as a sound and Y^- 

 lial)le test of the merits of horses on a basis of that 

 which is equal, and upon which calculation can 

 foreshadow results, hardly coincides with views I 

 should care to indulge in. or if calhd upon express 

 what I thought. 



When people enjoy racing for racing's salce, it is 



