104 



TYPES AND BREEDS 



up to 1840 was to mate Thoroughbred stallions with the native 

 French mares of Xonnandy, where much of this breeding was 

 done. These mares being of Flemish descent, the mating con- 

 stituted practically a hot top cross on a cold base. Horses so 

 bred were called, most appropriately, demi sang (half blood). 

 Since 1840 the half-breds have been inter-bred, although Thor- 

 oughbred blood is still close up to many of the French coachers 

 that have come to this country. 



Fig. 75. — A French coach stallion of the more refined sort. 



One of the imported stallions, Young Ivattlcr, brought to 

 France in 1820, gave rise to the side line of coach horses, whose 

 production was originally incidental to the breeding of cavalry 

 mounts. The get of Young Rattler for succeeding generations 

 were notable for their heavy harness fonn, style, and action. 

 Some of the demi sang horses show considerable speed. Trot- 

 ting races, on the turf under saddle for distances from two to 

 three miles, are common events. 



