12 PREFACE. 
who labors in any arduous pursuit. This, of course, he accepts. 
Though it did not enter into his thoughts when contemplating the 
composition of the present book, it nevertheless may have stimulated 
his exertions to perfect it. But, in addition to any weight that can 
be attached to such a motive, he desired to compose a work which 
should render the gentleman who had consulted it independent of his 
groom’s dictation; which should enable any person who had read it 
capable of talking to a veterinary surgeon without displaying either 
total ignorance or pitiable prejudice; which, in cases of emergency, 
might direct the uninitiated in the primary measures necessary to 
arrest the progress of disease; and which, when professional assist- 
ance could not be obtained, might even instruct the novice how to 
treat equine disorders in such a manner as would afford a reasonable 
prospect of success. 
When the regular diet and simple lives of most horses are regarded, 
the latter expectations certainly do not seem beyond the reach of 
human ambition. Cleanly and simple remedies alone are required ; 
and these gentlemen of the highest rank may, without fear of taint 
or of ridicule, condescend to prescribe. To secure such an end, the 
present book has been written in plain language. The author has 
endeavored to eschew hieroglyphics and to avoid technicalities. The 
meaning has shaped the terms employed, and all the graces of style 
have been intentionally discarded. 
In conclusion, the author has to thank the publishers for the very 
handsome shape in which they have been pleased to embody his 
efforts; likewise he has to acknowledge an obligation to the skill 
and the ability with which the Messrs. Dalziel have seconded his 
endeavors. 
