266 



PRINCIPLES OF 



P. IX. 



you therefore require the assistance of both 

 hands. Now the firmest hold you can have 

 with both hands, without separating the reins, 

 is to apply the right hand before the left, 

 put the middle finger downward between the 

 reins, then grasping the hand, turn your 

 elbows down close to your body, and your 

 thumbs up, you will find this a secure hold. 



Though you can ride the trot in this posi- 

 tion, nevertheless begin your practice in a 

 moderate or slow gallop, as being the easiest. 

 Raise yourself in your stirrups, and, if neces- 

 sary, at the same time shorten your reins. 

 That you may not in this, nor in any other 

 change of position, abandon your horse, when 

 raised in your stirrups, endeavour to find and 

 preserve your gravity without the least assist- 

 ance from the bridle, for which reason begin 

 with a slow gallop, in which the horse rides 

 light, and plays upon the bit. So that you 

 are completely poised in your stirrups, it is 

 immaterial what elevation, or inclination you 

 give your body ; you must be able to vary 

 that after awhile, as circumstances may re- 



