CHAPTER VI. 35 



for if the horse means mischief, these are the 

 two points at which he has the advantage 

 of a man. But by approaching him at the 

 side you can handle him most freely and 

 with the least danger to yourself. 



When a horse is to be led, I certainly do 

 not approve of leading him behind you ; for 

 then you have the least chance to look out 

 for yourself, and the horse has the best chance 

 to do whatever he likes. Then again I object 

 to teaching the horse to go on ahead with a 

 long leading-rein. The reason is that the 

 horse can then do mischief on either side he 

 pleases, and can even whirl round and face 

 his leader. Why, only think of several 

 horses led together in this fashion, — how in 

 the world could they be kept away from one 

 another? But a horse that is accustomed to 

 be led by the side can do the least mischief 

 to other horses and to men, and would be 

 most convenient and ready for the rider, 

 especially if he should ever have to mount 

 in a hurry. 



In order to put the bridle on properly, the 

 groom should first come up on the near 3' side 

 of the horse ; then, throwing the reins over 



