IXTRODUCTIOX. IX 



imposed, if they know the rule and reason for it. They can 

 see there is fair play and no choice between stoga boots and 

 patent leather when they understand the rules and see them 

 enforced without fear or favor, and when they can so understand 

 them, they enjoy the races better. The national rules have 

 elevated the trotting sport of America to a high standard, and 

 fostered a breeding interest which is represented by millions. 

 Every penalty imposed on man or horse for fraud or misde- 

 meanor of any kind, by one member or association, is equally 

 recognized by each and every other member. Thus the power 

 to enforce rectitude and good behavior upon the turf all over 

 the country is absolute. 



It is evident that a work of this kind, which is believed to 

 be unique, and which must be compiled without having the 

 advantage of any similar work upon which it might be based, 

 and from which materials might be drawn, must of necessity 

 be more or less incomplete. The field covered has been indefi- 

 nitely large, and the aim has constantly been to keep the book 

 within reasonable size, consistent with adequate treatment of 

 subjects. To this end, while it is hoped no important omis- 

 sions will be found, insignificant terms, those of obvious mean- 

 ing and simple facts known by practical horsemen, have 

 generally been excluded. For the purpose of making future 

 editions more complete, the author will be thankful to any one 

 for facts, information, phrases and words which will contribute 

 to this end. 



The author desires to express his gratitude to the many 

 friends and correspondents who have aided him in the prepara- 

 tion of this work. Thanks are especially due to M. M. Morse, 

 Secretary of the National Trotting Association, Hartford, 

 Conn.; J. H. Steiner, Secretary of the American Trotting Asso- 

 ciation, and of the American Trotting Register Association, 

 Chicago, 111.; E. C. Hopper, Secretary of the American Turf 

 Congress, Covington, Ky.; I. B. Nail, Secretary of the National 

 Saddle Horse Breeders' Association, Louisville, Ky.; Sanders 

 D. Bruce, editor- of the Turf, Field, and Farm, New York; 

 Simon W. Parlin, and J. W. Thompson, editors of the American 

 Horse Breeder, Boston, Mass.; W. B. Fasig, New York ; Charles 



