64 



THE HORSE. 



known animals. Thus, if it is supposed that two three-year-olds, 

 carrying the same weight, would run a mile-and-a-half, and come in 

 abreast, it is said, that "the form" of the one is equal to that of 

 the other. It is necessary, therefore, in order to make a descrip- 

 tion intelligible, when using the term in its mechanical significa- 

 tion, to add the adjective, external, although, at first sight, it may 

 appear to be an instance of tautology, for it might be alleged that 

 internal forms can only be ascertained by dissection. With this 

 explanation, I must now proceed to discuss what are generally con- 

 sidered to be the best shapes, for the purpose of combining speed 

 with stoutness, remembering that we are examining the thorough- 

 bred horse, and are not alluding to any other. As an instance of 

 a very opposite conformation to that of Fisherman at page 62, I 

 insert here a portrait of Saunterer, both after careful paintings by 



Mr. Barraud. These are generally admitted to have been the two 

 best horses of their time, yet it is scarcely possible to imagine a 

 greater difference to exist in first-class animals, than is displayed 

 by them. Fisherman, short and strong, looks more like a hunter 

 than a racehorse ; while Saunterer, long and elegant, appears in- 



