12 



anywhere ; and the ground cannot exert an influence, where 

 there is nothing to hold by. 



It may be objected here, that I have entirely overlooked 

 the power of suction ; but I answer, that, when the ground 

 surface of the inner lliab of the shoe is kept somewhat 

 within that of the foot surface, a kmd of wedge-like eifect 

 is imparted to it, and the power of suction reduced to 

 almost nothmg. 



But enough of theory : a few well authenticated facts 

 are more convincing, than volumes of speculation. Before 

 however we deal with the facts themselves, it may not be 

 amiss, if I account for so many having fallen under my 

 own observation. 



Immediately after the publication of my book a great 

 many persons, as if by common consent, j^ald me the com- 

 pliment of considering me public property, to be consulted at 

 their pleasui-e. I took no measures to check this notion, 

 because I at once saw, that it ofiered the readiest and 

 most eflPectual means of spreading a system, whicli I firmly 

 beheve to be overflowing with good to the horse and 

 advantage to his master ; so 1 gave into it, and, whenever 

 it was practicable, attended at the forge and directed every 

 stage of the operation myself; which frequently afforded me 

 the opportunity of instructing master, groom, and smith at 

 the same time ; and I must say, that I have been very 

 agreeably surprised to observe the evident interest, smiths 

 have taken in the matter, and the great attention they 

 have paid to the reasons, I gave, for what I required them 

 to do. I am quite convinced, that they are for the most 



