150 LADIBB ON HORSEBACK. 



some cases the position objected to is conse-^ 

 quent upon the np-pommel of the saddle 

 being placed too near the off one, thus there 

 is not sufficient space for the leg to lie easily, 

 and consequently it sticks out in the ungrace- 

 ful manner so often seen and deplored. 



In many instances, also, it is habit ; a bad 

 practice, indulged in at first without notice, 

 and then, when confirmed, most difficult to 

 eradicate. These pernicious habits are ex- 

 tremely apt to grow upon all of us, unless 

 most carefully watched, I have seen ladies 

 utterly disfigure their appearance in the saddle 

 by placing a hand upon their side, or, worse 

 again, behind their back, and riding along in 

 this jaunty style with an air as though they 

 thought themselves the most elegant creatures 

 in creation. Others keep their elbows a-kimbo, 

 and fairly churn themselves in the saddle with 

 every rise and fall. Others, again, acquire a 

 habit of tipping their horse with the whip in 

 an altogether unnecessary manner. It is not 

 actually enough to hurt the animal, but is 

 amply sufficient to worry and ruffie his 

 temper. No horse fit to carry a lady requires 



