THE BEST SEASON FOR BREAKING. 69 
but at two, and even as yearlings, when they are trained. There 
were in fact a few years ago yearling races, a practice happily 
proscribed, Schzsm ran at Shrewsbury, and others at this 
age, and as far as IJ know received no hurt from it. 
As to the season at which horses should be broke, a very 
important subject, our authorities are silent. But common 
sense supplies the omission, and tells us, that when the 
ground is soft, then it is fit for this severe preparation. 
This period may, and most likely will, be in different years 
at different times between July and September, and even as 
late as October. 
But if the ground be soft enough, in July or soon after 
would be the best time to ride yearlings loose; or even 
(if thought desirable) those that are fit enough may be 
tried before the winter sets in. But in respect to trials the 
majority would be of necessity in a backward condition, and 
the following spring would be soon enough—just before the 
March races, should the colts be wanted so soon. On the 
other hand, the trials of those having engagements late, 
may be deferred until nearer the time of running, when 
a more satisfactory result may be obtained than by trying 
early as yearlings. Yearlings are broke, I know, as early 
as June, whilst the ground is hard as adamant—a practice 
I cannot but think hazardous and one that should not be 
followed ; for they must feel the ill-effects of galloping and 
plunging in trying to free themselves from the tackling, on 
the hard ground without shoes or the least protection to 
their feet. 
As to the age when horses should be broke, there is, as I 
have said, a diversity of opinions; but most thoroughbred 
horses are broke as yearlings, which I think the best age: 
whilst some few agree with the practice as given by Buffon 
