50 THE HORSEMAN. 



forward, slightly raised, and then to the side ; all com- 

 prehending but one motion. 



In these turns, the horse must be sustained by gently 

 applying the means of turning to the right after the turn 

 to the left is executed; and vice versa turning to the 

 right. This principle must be observed in all the move- 

 ments of the horse, and throughout all the paces.* 



The rider must now perceive that the horse makes the 

 turns or wheels upon three distinct pivots ; his centre, on 

 his fore feet and on his hind feet ; and that he directs 

 these movements, before his own person, by the bridle 

 hand, and behind it by the spurs or whip. 



The aids of the bridle hand and legs must correspond, 

 and with a degree of force necessary only to carry them 

 into effect. 



If the force is insufficient, the horse will merely ad- 

 vance or describe a circle, or an arc of one, much larger 

 than the rider intends. On the contrary, if the hand is 

 abrupt, and the leg not applied to support him, he will 

 interfere and trip himself. 



At the termination of these turns or wheels, the bridle 

 hand and legs must instantly resume their proper or ori- 

 ginal position. 



The utility and necessity of the turns upon the horse's 

 own centre, will appear more obvious in the quicker 

 paces, and when the rider is fencing or using the sabre 

 in the saddle. 



* For a fuller explanation of these principles, see the gallop. 



