55 



If, after mounting, we drop the stirrups and let the legs hang loose- 

 ly by the sides of the horse, the stirrup plate should reach to the upper 

 edge of the riders heel and the time has now come for the final adjust- 

 ment of the same. 



The reins are given crosswise into one hand, while the other on its 

 own side raises the stirrup by pulling the end strap upward sufficiently 

 to undo the buckle and leaving the foot to keep a slight tension upon 

 the stirrup, we shorten or lengthen the same to the proper measure, 

 rebuckling it with the aid of the index finger and then replace the 

 buckle tinder the saddle quarter. 



Care should be taken, that during this operation the leg remains 

 outstretched and away from the horses flank or shoulder, so as not to 

 start or disturb the horse by involuntary impressions. 



The teacher will do well to assist the pupil in assuming the correct 

 seat and position, not only by thoroughly explaining and demonstrating 

 the same ; but also by actually placing the pupils limbs and feet in the 

 desired position with his hands. 



Before going further, we would draw the attention of every pupil 

 to a point of vital importance, that is the absolute necessity of the horses 

 standing perfectly still, while being mounted. Under no circumstances 

 should the horse be permitted to stir until the rider has settled on its 

 back and only when the aids are applied, the horse should start. 



Kvery attempt of the horse to leave the spot, where it has been 

 placed by the rider to be mounted, should be corrected by reestablish- 

 ing the original position, which should be emphasized by a most decisive 

 use of the voice and a stro Icing of the forehead and patting of the neck 

 -with the right hand, while the left one holds the reins. 



If half a dozen attempts and the use of kindness have proved a fail- 

 ure, one cut -with the whip on the side, toward which the horse is 

 inclined to move, will bring it back in the position desired and again we 

 speak kindly and encouragingly, but firmly to the horse before making 

 another attempt to mount. 



When the rider has the left foot in the stirrup and the right hand 

 on the cantle of the saddle, he will do "well to pat the horse on the back 

 and under the body behind the girth, to take away any fear of the touch 

 of the foot and to inspire confidence, 



The most critical moment for a voluntary start is the time, when 

 the riders right hand has been placed on the saddle puff ard the right 

 leg is in the act of swinging over the horse's back, a sudden rush or 

 turn while the rider is in this position may result in disaster. For this 

 reason I recommend a pause after each movement in mounting and ex- 

 perience teaches, that the quiet and systematic proceeding of the rider 

 is imparted to the horse, and the understanding between the latter and 

 its master, will lead to satisfactory and lasting results. 



Horses which show an inclination to buck, by raising their backs 

 before mounting and such who inflate themselves against the pressure 

 of the girths, should be backed a number of steps and then led forward 

 again, before being mounted. 



In dismounting, the rider follows the same instructions, as for 

 mounting, reversing the order. 



