40 The Art of Biding. 



rider's stiff, unyielding hold over the reins, and 

 the sudden jerks on the mouth which follow. 



To handle the reins well is a great art, and 

 should be acquired, no matter how much trouble 

 it may occasion ; for this is the last and crowning 

 accomplishment of the thorough horsewoman. 

 Not strength is required, but art. The slightest 

 strain on the horse's mouth is sufficient, in the 

 case of high-spirited animals, to control all his 

 movements, and make him subservient to your 

 wishes; whereas the ""iron hand" will make him 

 quite unmanageable, and not only render the 

 exercise of riding extremely difficult, but jeopar- 

 dise and endanger the life of the rider. 



Ladies, in learning to ride, have not the 

 advantage of gentlemen. The latter get the best 

 practice in acquiring the balance by riding bare- 



