80 THE TROT. 



should be commenced moderately : if the horse start off 

 too rapidly, or increase the pace beyond the rider's in- 

 clination, she must check him by closing the hands 

 firmly; and, if that will not suffice, by drawing the 

 little fingers upwards and towards the body. This must 

 not be done by a jerk, but delicately and gradually; 

 and, as soon as the proper effect is produced, the reins 

 are again to be slackened. If the horse do not advance 

 with sufficient speed, or do not bring up his haunches 

 well, the animations used at starting him are to be 

 repeated. When the horse proceeds to the trot, the 

 lady must endeavour to preserve her balance, steadi- 

 ness and pliancy, as in the walk. The rise in trotting 

 is to be acquired by practice. When the horse, in his 

 action, raises the rider from her seat, she should ad- 

 vance her body, and rest a considerable portion of her 

 weight on the right knee ; by means of which, and by 

 bearing the left foot on the stirrup, she may return to 

 her former position without being jerked ; the right 

 knee and the left foot, used in the same manner, will 

 also aid her in the rise. Particular attention must be 

 paid to the general position of the body while trotting : 

 in this pace, ordinary riders frequently rise to the left, 

 which is a very bad practice, and must positively be 

 avoided. The lady should also take care not to raise 

 herself too high ; the closer she maintains her seat, 

 consistently with her own comfort, the better. 



