SADDLE HORSES. 177 
deaden, in physical exertion, even in physical fatigue, 
still more in the agony of a contest. It is good and 
pleasant to put on the gloves and face an antagonist 
some ten pounds heavier than yourself, who would 
not hesitate to send in a stinging straight counter on 
the nose, if you gave him the opportunity; the sensa- 
tion of being thrown absolutely on your own resources 
under these circumstances is exhilarating and whole- 
some; it is good, also, to handle a shell in rough 
water, with the consciousness that the least mistake 
or flurry on your part would serve to capsize or 
swamp your frail craft; and good is it — nay, 
best of all—to bestride a young and fiery horse, 
whose safety as a vehicle depends upon your power 
to grip him with leg and knee, and to guide and 
restrain him with a firm, light hand. 
REN dis eres 
