24 RIDING TO HOUNDS 



j^ The test for appointments in the field 



is one of utility and good taste. Loose 

 ends of all kinds should be avoided, and 

 the outfit should be compact and business- 

 like. Flowers, ribbons, etc., are out of 

 place. Carry in your pocket a pen knife 

 and bit of string to mend a broken bridle 

 or stirrup leather. Pink coats have both 

 a sentimental and practical value, as they 

 not only add cheer to the landscape but 

 can be distinguished at a distance, and are 

 easier to locate than black or grey. If pink 

 is worn, it should always be accompanied 

 by a silk hat and black boots with light col- 

 ored tops. Gloves should be substantial, 

 very loose and turned back, unbuttoned 

 over the wrist, to permit the easy flexing 

 of the latter. Unless your horse is lazy, 

 a crop is better than a whip, as it can be 

 used to open gates, let down bars or pick 

 up a lost hat. Spurs are recognized as 

 part of full dress equipment, but I have 

 a strong prejudice against them, based on 



bpurs observation and experience. Few riders 



are sufficiently expert to avoid using them 



