158 



HOW TO HOLD THE REINS. 



HOLDING DOUBLE REINS IN BOTH HANDS. 

 We may hold double reins in both hands in the same way 

 as we hold single reins, except that the little fingers (Fig. 161) 

 separate the reins on each respective side. The question as to 

 which rein should be on the outside, may I think be decided 

 by the amount of control which is required to be obtained over 



Fig. 162. Double reins crossed in both hands with the little fingers 

 between them. 



the horse ; because, by the rotation of the hand, we can work 

 the outward rein more effectually than the inward one. 

 Hence, if we want to employ the curb more than the snaffle, 

 we should keep the rein of the former outside that of the 

 latter, and if need be we may lengthen out the snaffle reins 

 so as to take all bearing off them. Also, if we wish to remind 

 the animal every now and then that we have a curb ready 

 to check his waywardness, we may have the curb reins on the 



