The Curb, Etc. 63 



When you are handy and expert at this, your 

 reins will never be in disorder. 



The shifting of the reins is principally intended 

 to relieve the left hand when cramped or tired, or 

 when you have occasion to use it, or when you 

 mean to work or attack your horse on the left side. 



SEPARATING THE REINS. 



Separating the reins, on several occasions, is 

 very necessary. Two hands can execute more 

 than one ; and, consequently, when a horse refuses 

 obedience to one hand, you take two. 



You seldom have occasion to take more than one 

 rein in the right hand, which, if a single-reined 

 bridle, you cannot mistake ; but when it is a double- 

 reined bridle, you take the right rein only of the 

 snaffle in the right hand. 



For tYs purpose, turn the back of your right 

 hand upwards ; put the first three fingers over the 

 bridoon rein, by which you receive the rein be- 

 tween your little and third finger ; let the super- 

 fluous end hang over the forefinger with the thumb 

 placed on it ; and then carry the thumb upwards 

 as you do the bridle hand. 



