106 BITING AND STRIKING. 



his intentions clearly, and will always warn you off with 

 energy. This horse is really the least dangerous, as a 

 barking dog makes most fuss in showing himself. When 

 approaching a kicking, biting horse in the stall, don't show 

 the least want of confidence in yourself, or exhibit the 

 least indication of fear, while you should not be fool- 

 hardy. You must here, at all -times, show decided nerve 

 and courage. As you get near the stall, if possible, 

 catch the horse's eye, and say, "Get around, sir," in a 

 commanding manner : stand still, looking firmly into the 

 eye ; for he is measuring you, and now is the critical 

 moment of his learning what you are. If you have will 

 and nerve in you, concentrate it now in your looks and 

 actions, as if you would crush him. Say, " Get around, 

 sir," getting as near as you can, but not near enough to 

 get kicked. If the horse moves around, and looks from 

 you, you can, if careful, approach him safely. As you get 

 to the end of the stall, with your eyes still upon him, 

 make a quick, gliding spring to the shoulder, and without 

 waiting for him to recover himself, run the hand up the 

 neck to the head and down to the nose-piece of the halter 

 or bit, and grasp it firmly. You are now safe. But as you 

 value your life, be gentle and firm in your actions. When 

 you wish to go out, pull the head after you as far as you 

 can, and the instant you let go, glide out beyond reach. 

 If the horse will not move, and looks at you sullenly, don't 

 you chance going near him : there is too much danger. 

 He would crush you before you could do any thing to 

 prevent. I will not attempt to dictate the course you are 

 to pursue to get to him : too much depends upon circum- 

 stances, and I do not wish to indulge in too many details. 

 You must use your judgment, but take no chances you 

 can with a little time and care avoid. Subject the horse 

 to either or all modes of direct subjection. It is here that 

 the value of skill is shown by quick, keen, smooth work, 

 that leaves nothing undone, yet, without apparently doing 

 much, brings about a complete change in the animal's 

 character. Many and many a time, with a prejudiced class 

 behind me, who would seem glad of my defeat, I have 

 taken almost desperate chances, and barely succeeded. 

 My advice is, do not be foolhardy. Let your courage be 



