56 HANDS AND LEGS. 



covered the tension of the reins that per- 

 mits the horse to move freely and yet con- 

 trols him, he may gradually increase the 

 speed. But it is not advisable that he 

 should take a rapid pace until he has 

 learned how to collect his horse and to use 

 both hands and legs with quickness and 

 precision at a moderate speed. 



After he has obtained a seat that does 

 not depend upon the support of the reins, 

 the rider should use the double-bridle. The 

 curb-reins will then be held in the left 

 hand, divided by the little finger, while 

 above them the right hand will hold the 

 reins of the snaffle-bit, divided by its 

 breadth. 



The first lessons in the double-bridle 

 will be given at the halt. The hand should 

 be held at such an elevation as will permit 



