138 THE HORSE 



and all other types must always be considered if 

 we are to understand fully his possibilities and 

 limitations. In all other types, however modified 

 to suit such different uses as riding, driving, and 

 racing, the development has been mainly along the 

 lines of the animal's natural traits and qualities — 

 as his speed, endurance, and beauty of contour. 

 Even in coach horses, which have often to pull a 

 considerable load, this holds true. But the draft 

 horse is so modified as to serve a totally different 

 purpose from that which nature intended and size 

 and strength, rather than speed, endurance, and 

 grace of outline, have always been the chief things 

 aimed at in his development. 



This great change is very often ascribed wholly 

 to the art of man. But it is well to remember 

 that the art of man alone, without the right en- 

 vironment, could never have brought it about. 

 The draft horse is peculiarly the product of the 

 temperate zone and then of only its comparatively 

 level and fertile sections. In the far north, in a 

 mountainous country, or in the tropics his de- 

 velopment would have been impossible, nor can he, 

 even now, be bred in such regions and made to 

 retain his standard size — a fact that should al- 

 ways be kept in mind by all who contemplate 

 breeding him. 



Now, in departing so far from the purposes of 



