90 The Art of Biding. 



The horse is naturally nervous and easily 

 frightened, and will often shy at objects on the road. 

 The rider must always be prepared for this, other- 

 wise he may be unseated and have a dangerous fall. 

 Many horses will jump suddenly to the right or 

 left without the slightest warning; others wi|l 

 give notice of their fear by pricking their ears, and 

 eagerly looking towards the object of their dread. 

 At every such manifestation draw your riding 

 whip gently down his neck, speaking words of 

 encouragement and kindness to him, at the same 

 time tighten the reins, and brace yourself to urge 

 him on. If the object is on the left press his 

 right side, and keep his head to the left, and 

 compel him to pass it, and vice versa if the object 

 be on the right. In tightening the reins you must 

 be careful not to pull him over, and should he 

 attempt to rear they must be softened instantly. 



