The Gentleman's Seat. 67 



all times be as much plasticity as possible in riding. 

 I do not mean that the rider should imitate a 

 jelly fish, and wabble about in his seat, quite the 

 contrary : his body and limbs should be well 

 braced, and possess, as far as possible, the char- 

 acteristics of whalebone — strong, tough, and 

 pliant. 



To ride without reins is very good practice; but, 

 of course, in this case the horse should be longed. 

 It teaches the pupil to maintain his balance inde- 

 pendently of the reins, which is of great import 

 ance to good riding. One of the great faults to 

 be overcome, and which must be mastered, is 

 hanging on the bridle reins ; so that the horse is 

 asked to carry the rider in his mouth as well as on 

 his back. No horse of any spirit will stand this 

 kind of treatment ; or, at least, he will fret and 



