32 THE HORSEMAN. 



In this position, he will be enabled to hold the horse, or, 

 at least, render his pranks harmless. 



SECTION IV. To vault on the Horse. 



Place yourself close to the horse's left or near shoulder, 

 seize with the snaffle or bridoon reins, a lock of the mane 

 with the left hand near the withers, the right hand on the 

 withers or pommel of the saddle ; then slightly bend the 

 knees and spring up so as to bring the body straight and 

 the arms extended; and now pass the right leg, well 

 extended, over the horse's croup without touching it, 

 and seat yourself lightly. 



The effort of the arms and legs should not be made at 

 the same instant. The strength of the arms should be 

 applied immediately after the height has been attained 

 by that of the legs ; for, if both were applied together, 

 you would push yourself from the horse. Endeavor to 

 keep the body erect, so as not to throw the breast across 

 the horse and scramble up. 



SECTION V. To vault off the Horse. 



Place the right hand on the pommel or withers, and 

 take, with the left hand, a lock of the mane with the 

 reins ; incline the body forward, and, at the same time, 

 raise it upon the right arm ; now pass the right leg care- 

 fully over the croup, bring the heels together for an 

 instant, and then descend to the ground. 



