TRAINING OF HORSES. 39 
or ‘two sharp, steady pulls, for eight or ten feet back- 
ward just before leaving him each time. He is now 
ready to be hitched up as you usually hitch up your 
horses, and ready to form the habit of backing to wagon 
at the word. Be careful for the first few times not to 
ask him to back with a load, each time having the wag- 
on in a favorable position, such as descending ground, 
when the attemptis made, By using this caution the 
colt will soon learn to be handy, and practice will ena- 
ble him to be perfect. Under all circumstances in hand- 
ling the colt, preserve your temper, no matter how much 
inconvenienced ; for if you lose control of yourself, you 
will be eure to lose control of your charge. The colt 
is to be governed by kindness and determination, not by 
abuse and tyranny. 
RIDING THE COLT. 
This should not be done until he is well bridle-broke. 
Begin the lesson in the barn or yard. Place on him a 
common riding-bridle, without girth or martingale, 
Tie the bridle-reins together on top of the neck, tight, 
enough to check him a very little. Stand on the near- 
side near the shoulder;. throw a webbing or tie-strap 
across the withers, near where the reins lie. Quietly 
reach under in front and caress the forelegs, and as ‘ 
soon as he is sufficiently calmed, tie the webbing or 
strap to the off-side foot, just below the fetlock, If he 
is restive, and prevents you from tying it, or shows 
signs of striking or kicking, take him by the head and 
