TEACHING TO LEAP. 



185 



or of refusing them. After a few lessons, 

 I have ridden a horse, that had always 

 rushed at his leaps, over an obstacle, while 

 the reins lay knotted upon his neck ; and 

 I have reason to believe that no well- 

 formed horse, if properly trained, will re- 

 fuse a leap that he thinks he is capable of 

 accomplishing. 



Setting aside all considerations of the 

 pleasure in riding a horse that jumps with 

 coolness and deliberation, there is much 

 greater safety with such an animal than 

 with one that springs into the air with a 

 struggle to alight he knows not how or 

 where. 



The young horse should first be taught 

 to step over a leaping-bar as it lies upon 

 the ground, when he is going to or return- 

 ing from the spot where his daily lessons 



