Judging Horses 47 
durability. Another evidence of quality is seen in those animals 
whose muscles stand out clearly defined and distinct. 
Coarse hair is associated with coarse thick skin, which indicates 
an abundance of connective tissue, which in turn is associated with 
soft, spongy bones that cannot endure strain or hard usage. 
78. Temperament. — This is reflected in the action and man- 
ners. It should be lively and pleasant. When possible, the pur- 
chaser should know something of the ancestors of the horse under 
consideration, as a horse may inherit characteristics which can- 
not bediscovered until he has been used some time, and peculiarities 
of temper are among these characters. 
DETAIL CHARACTERS OR FEATURES OF A LIGHT HORSE 
79. Head. — Among light horses the head should be lean, with 
broad forehead tapering towards the nostrils, and the features 
of the face should be distinct. The nostrils should be large, open, 
and of pink color. The eye should be large, full, clear, and bright, 
indicative of a kind, generous disposition and good health. The 
jaw-bones should be strong and wide, providing ample room for 
a large wind-pipe. The ears should be active, refined, neither 
large nor small, carried close and erect and turning slightly in at 
the tips. Lop ears indicate laziness. A smooth neat attachment 
of head to neck is highly essential. 
80. Neck. — A nicely arched and well-muscled neck of good 
length, carrying the head gracefully, is a highly desirable feature 
of the light horse. Much of the style and symmetry of the coach 
horse is observed in the make-up and carriage of the head and neck. 
The neck and body should blend smoothly at the attachment. 
81. Chest. — Among light horses the chest should obtain its 
capacity more from depth than width. A deep chest permits 
a freer play of the shoulders, and indicates staying power. 
82. Shoulders. — To give elasticity to the movement and to 
permit of quick and clean action, the shoulder should be long and 
