BUN AW AT HORSES. 213 



stances the horse may be stopped by suddenly picking 

 up the curb rein (after allowing him to pursue his 

 course without the least restraint a short time), and 

 the application of which, by a severe jerk, or a suc- 

 cession of distinct jerks, will cause him to stop much 

 sooner than a dead pull, as the strength of a horse's jaw 

 is capable of resisting the efforts of the strongest man, 

 as applied in this manner ; but the pain and resistance 

 which he has to encounter by the sawing or "curb 

 jerk" will, when properly applied, pull him together 

 and prevent accidents. 



In cases where the rider fails to restrain the runaway 

 horse, and a collision with some formidable object ap- 

 pears inevitable, it is perhaps the best way to jump 

 off, as the least of the two evils. By remaining in the 

 saddle, in some instances, almost certain death stares 

 the rider in the face ; whereas, with proper precaution, 

 he may escape without injury. But let all who attempt 

 this course be exceedingly careful to clear the stirrups 

 and every part of the dress from the saddle. Smart, 

 active, young men, may have little difficulty in clearing 

 a horse, while galloping, by taking hold of the can tie 

 (hind part) of the saddle with the &/fc-hand first tak- 

 ing the reins in the r^A^-hand and then bring the 

 right leg to the near side, over the neck, and under the 

 right hand. Then place the ball of the right hand 

 (first quitting the reins) on the pommel (fore part) of 

 the saddle, and by making a purchase of the two hands 

 he will now sit on the saddle, as on a chair, with his 



