204 APPENDIX. 



In the first place, the dispositions of the different classes of domes- 

 tic animals would seem to be, in a greater or less degree, developed 

 in the horse, showing, as it were, peculiarities of strata, and in pro- 

 portion as there is preponderance of any combination or peculi- 

 arity of strata, we have developed what we call disposition. Thus 

 one horse will remind, by his temper, of the hog, the bear or mule, 

 while another wdl show the reverse, of the sheep or gazelle, while 

 another shows the elements of the feline nature. The first, if aroused, 

 is sulky — a stolid, reckless sort of action, that goes headlong, regardless 

 of consequences, or is stupidly sullen. The other is moved wholly by 

 fear, and will not bear excitement or abuse. There is a timidity and 

 fear underlying its actions that points to any sort of punishment or 

 abuse as only increasing the resistance and fears of the animal. 

 While the third would seem to work in nicely by ordinary, careful 

 treatment ; but rouse its temper, the eyes become bloodshot and the 

 whole nature would seem to be excited to fury. And here, we see, 

 are endless modifications of these extremes. But if you will look at 

 the eyes, ears and head carefully, there will be noticeable a singular 

 correspondence of construction and expression to the disposition an<* 

 character. The good disposition — a large brownish eye, the ear is 

 short and tapering and the nostrils large ; the head is broad between 

 the eyes, and short from eyes to ears. 



The sulky, stupid nature — eye medium or small, eyelids heavy, the 

 ears long and flabby; but if other features are even good, excitement 

 will reveal a persistent, willful temper. 



The third — a large and clear eye, eyelids thin, quick to learn but 

 over-sensitive, ears pointed, nostrils open, full brain, texture dense and 

 fine. The fourth has a stolid expression ; no movement of eye or head 

 but ni a suspicious manner, that will not bear any trifling, or resists 

 only when excited. And so I could go on, according to modification, 

 to an endless degree. But these conditions you must study. Move 

 slowly and carefully when you are not sure of what you have ; never take 

 any chances you can avoid. What you do, do well. I mean do not 

 suppose a horse that seems to work gently after a course of subjection, 

 can be always depended upon. Try the animal thoroughly for several 

 days following, if necessary, until you find prompt, sure obedience. 



A horse should be perfectly obedient to the bit, but not too tender. 

 Be careful how you force the mouth much of a horse that will not 

 pull against the bit, and be just as careful to know that you have the 

 most thorough control over the mouth of a courageous, runaway 

 horse. There is the widest latitude in the training necessajry to the 

 mouth. One horse will resist the bit with rare courage, while another 

 will give up in a few minutes. But you should indirectly aim to over- 

 come the cause of the resistance, and then carry out your point with 

 the reins and bit. 



In the training of colts especially you cannot be too thorough in 

 overcoming all sense of fear of anything striking or touching the 

 hind ptirts. If the tail is sensitive, disposed to catch the rein (has 

 been spoiled), make the crouper large, as directed, and wear under 



