SECOND CLASS. 



121 



about three feet apart ; now hitch the colt into these poles without 

 breeching, and drive along as shown in Fig. 158, repeating the les- 

 son until he can be turned right or left, back against the cross-piece, 

 or submit to any excitement, and can be held and managed easily. 

 This point accomplished, you can next hitch ,to a wagon. / , If 

 available, get a two-wheeled cart, which would be much better. 

 Before hitching to wagon or cart, be sure {hat all fear of any rattle 

 or noise from behind is thoroughly overcome. Next, When the 

 shafts are brought up behind and the colt put in, run the cross- 

 piece against the quarters two or three times and push them right 



Fig. 149.— Method of Backing the Colt against Rail or Pole. 



and left against the body, then shake and rattle the wagon, then 

 move him along a little, pulling the wagon behind. Now, attach 

 the tugs and breeching-straps, and if you wish to give the utmost 

 security, attach a piece of cord or strap to the near fore foot, and 

 hold as a third line. Now, should the colt try to lunge ahead, sim- 

 ply take his foot, when he will become disabled. Usually there will 

 be no resistance. It is simply a measure of precaution. Found 

 safe, take off and drive moderately. 



Another point : The colt should always be hitched where the 

 road is wide and level, or in a field, giving a chance to drive around 

 and turn easily. At first let him go any way he will, giving him a 

 moderately slack rein. If the previous work has been well done, 

 the colt will be as gentle and indifferent to excitement as an old 

 horse. But if not subdued and made thoroughly gentle and fear- 



