226 Our Noblest Friend, The Horse 



We sadly lack discrimination, and the presence of 

 practical horsemen in power, who would not only 

 correct, but also instruct, would greatly help the 

 task of alleviating equine conditions. 



We forbid a child to hurt a fly or to pull the 

 kitten's tail, generally before he has essayed either 

 feat; but he is afforded no reason for the inter- 

 diction, beyond the general statement that the act 

 is cruel. The mere word conveys no idea to his 

 mind, but the mandate awakens immediately his 

 curiosity — as similar warnings concerning the more 

 important temptations of life have affected all of 

 us, dear reader. Lacking any demonstration as to 

 zahy the deeds are inhuman, or as to what cruelty 

 is, he avails himself of the first opportunity to experi- 

 ment with fly or feline, and his convictions are 

 formed upon the immediate results of his investi- 

 gations. 



How common it is to find that people who by act 

 and word strive to evidence their sympathy for the 

 animal kingdom will thoughtlessly consign to the 

 tender mercies of their children all varieties of pets; 



