296 THROUGH STABLE AND SADDLE-ROOM. 



side his mistress, and if he keeps too close behind 

 his horse very frequently upsets the one she is 

 riding. 



I do not think that grooms should ever be allowed 

 to wear spurs on horseback. They do not require 

 them, and if they have not got them on they can- 

 not misuse them. A pad-groom should carry a 

 hunting-crop without a lash, as it is useful to open 

 gates with. 



And now may I venture to say a few words 

 regarding the riding dress of the reader himself ? 

 Let it be plain and simple — severely so, if you 

 will ; but let breeches and boots, or trousers, or 

 whatever may be worn, be made by a man who can 

 make them. Do not let an otherwise smart and 

 creditable turn-out be marred for the sake of a little 

 extra trouble and expense. Messrs. Tautz and Sons 

 or Messrs. Hammond will make you a pair of riding 

 breeches or trousers as they should be made, and 

 Messrs. Bartley or Peel, or other well-known 

 London makers, will make your boots, etc. Thus 

 attired, you need not fear criticism anywhere, go 

 where you will. To be suitably attired is half-way 

 to riding well and with comfort. 



And now, ere I bring my little book to a close, I 

 would add a few words of advice regarding the 

 purchase of a horse : 



