94 



PRINCIPLES OF 



P. IV. 



Of all the means we use in dressing horses, 

 soothings and caresses are the most salutary. 

 These dispel their fears, reconcile them to 

 new operations, and give them confidence in 

 their master. 



The voice sooths by the soft and mild tones 

 with which we accompany such expressions, 

 as— So, so, so! poor fellow! and the like: 

 the hand, by gentle patting, stroking, &c. : 

 the body and legs, by a stillness, and relin- 

 quishment of all unnecessary firmness, sitting 

 easy, and not moving a muscle. 



From this it will appear, that a horseman 

 should have perfect command of temper, in 

 order that the horse may not irritate and pro- 

 voke him to anger, as well as invincible pa- 

 tience and perseverance, to make the horse 

 comprehend and perform. Mildness and 

 perseverance will overcome all difficulties. 

 Demand but little the first time, and you 

 will be more readily obeyed the next; and 

 increase your demands as the horse becomes 

 accustomed and has temper to submit to it 



