86 TRAINING OF HORSES. 
themselves afterward when he is in high feed and fine 
spirits. 
There are other methods of, accomplishing the same 
ends which we have used, but those we mention we con- 
sider the best. Among those we have discarded is one 
of putting a strap around the neck, and attaching the 
strap from the hind-legs to that, instead of a halter. We 
are informed that. some person is lately pretending to 
have a patent upon this plan ; but we used it years ago, 
until we had learned better modes. 
KICKERS WHILE HARNESSING. 
Put on “ Yankee Bridle,” (see Figure 7,) and give him 
a few sharp pulls, and, standing by his shoulder, draw it 
up very tight, tying it with a half-hitch. (See Figure 13.) 
Under all circumstances keep hold of the end of the 
“Bridle” when it is thus tied, to be enabled at any mo- 
ment to pull out the tie if occasion requires. In this 
position you need not fear his kicking. Put on the har- 
ness quietly, being particular in handling that portion 
of the harness in the rear, very gently. Few people 
understand why a horse kicks while being harnessed. _.. 
The reason is simply this: he first kicked from being 
hurt by the harness being thrown too heavily upon him, 
or from some other injury or careless movement. Upon 
kicking he has probably been struck with the pitchfork 
or some other handy weapon. The horse, as far as he 
has any ideas upon the subject, gets the idea that you 
strike him because he does not kick hard enough, and 
he tries to satisfy you by kicking with all his might. 
