MODERN RIDING. 



115 



The generality of horses and horsemen are 

 not capable of stopping at the word, and are 

 content to effect this by a gradual cessation 

 of action in an uncertain distance, depending 

 on the degree of animation and speed, dis- 

 union of the horse, or inefficacy of the rider's 

 hand, which may require the space of from 

 one to one hundred yards. 



The Stop properly performed shows the 

 great superiority of the rider's hand over the 

 horse, thereby gives him confidence, confirms 

 the horse in obedience, unites him, supples 

 the haunches, and bends the houghs. 



Though its effects are beautiful and salu- 

 tary, mischief may occur from a too frequent 

 or injudicious practice of it ; for, should we 

 act too powerfully on a horse weak behind, 

 or in his loins, we may spring his sinews, or 

 sprain his back. 



The perfection of the Stop consists in the 

 action ceasing at the finish of a cadence, with- 



i 2 



