The Gentleman's Seat. 103 



should be thrown loosely on his neck, or that he 

 should be abandoned entirely to himself. A care- 

 ful feeling should be retained over his mouth so 

 as to be ready instantly to help him should he 

 stumble; but in no case should it be so tight as 

 to impede his progress. In walking over gaps in 

 walls the slightest interference with his freedom 

 of action is likely to throw him down. 



In all his difficulties sympathise with him, 

 and encourage him by hand and voice ; but at 

 the same time be firm with him, and never allow 

 him to turn back from any way you have deter- 

 mined he shall go. It is astonishing the high and 

 rough breaks in stone walls over which horses will 

 climb if rightly handled. I am not speaking now" 

 of jumping, but simply walking. Let him have 

 his head, feel his mouth gently, and let him hear 



