THE HORSEMAN. 



47 



CHAPTER IV. 

 - Section I. — On the Management of the Horse. 



Before treating of the horse's paces, we deem it pro- 

 per to say a few words on the subject of animations, ca- 

 resses, corrections, fyc. 



A gentle pressure of the legs, a kind word from the 

 rider, or switching the whip, animates the horse. 



Caresses are employed to dispel the fears of the ani- 

 mal and to give him confidence, or show him that the 

 rider is satisfied with his performance. 



These can be effected by the rider speaking to the 

 horse in a kind, mild tone ', relinquishing the pressure of 

 the legs, and patting or stroking his neck. 



Corrections are whipping, spurring, and speaking 

 sharply to the horse. 



Instead, however, of spurring or whipping the horse 

 too much, to correct him in his movements, the rider 

 should oppose him by restraint and make him perform 

 directly the contrary. For example : if the horse backs 

 contrary to the will of the rider, he should first apply the 

 whip or spurs ; if, by that means, he does not succeed in 

 urging him forward, he must be assisted in his backing 

 until he becomes heartily tired of it. Likewise, if the 

 horse is disposed to turn around and around, the rider 

 should also help h\ that, if the contrary means (ap- 

 plying the opposite spur and rein) are ineffectual. 



