HOW THE HORSE LEARNS 121 



does not cause them to rebel, their legs suffer from 

 it. It should not be done, in order to spare the 

 horse. 



That which it is desired to teach him to do 

 should come of itself, such is the gradation which 

 must be employed, and must always be accompa- 

 nied by flattery and caresses so that the horse 

 should not become tired, should not become impa- 

 tient and should not grow angry. 



The first time that he is taught any action it 

 is sufficient if he understands it and does it even 

 badly and in a bad position ; this does not matter, 

 he will improve it afterwards. All the actions which 

 he is taught to do should be first taught in an 

 easy position with his head low and then in a 

 better position, first at a walk and afterwards at 

 a trot and gallop. 



Success in obtaining many, not to say all actions 

 from the horse, of course within certain limits, 

 depends on knowing how to prepare his body in 

 the mechanical positions adapted to perform them. 

 If it is desired to raise a foot by taking hold of 

 and puUing the leg whilst the horse has the weight 



