478 AKT OF APPROACHING, SEIZING, AND TAMING 
reins should be seized with the left hand, and firmly held in a raised 
position towards the chin, and the animal turned towards the door, 
the conductor walking beside him with an extended arm and firm 
hand. In order to avoid the danger of being compressed against the 
wall or door-post, he should, if the passage is narrow, pass out 
first, lowering the horse’s head by a pressure on the bit, and, the 
passage once threaded, immediately resume his position at the left 
shoulder, as he is safest there from any attempts which the animal 
may make to kick or bite. In order to avoid a kick, he must draw 
the animal’s head firmly and forcibly towards him, as this compels 
him to bring his body into an oblique position, and guarantees the 
safety of the groom. 
It is a general rule that all persons who wish to examine and 
approach a horse should never do so from the right side, whether 
the animal be standing or in motion ; repeated observations having 
proved that it is from this side he kicks, his motions not being re- 
strained by the hand of his leader. 
A horse is less to be feared when fastened to the wall than in 
the stable or at the post, for there is then a mode of retreat always 
open to enable us to avoid his attacks. 
In the stable or in the ranks the animal will endeavour to press 
against his conductor, or get him under his feet : in order to avoid 
this danger, both skill and courage are requisite. The body must 
be bowed, the head firmly seized and drawn towards the man ; and 
the neck thus bent, and an oblique direction given to the body of 
the horse, then by a rapid movement the man must disengage 
himself from his dangerous position. Some persons will seek re- 
fuge in the rack or manger ; but this is by no means safe, as the 
animal may, in his fury, attack them with his teeth and hind legs, 
without their having any means of defence. 
A horse is far less dangerous when bridled and saddled or har- 
nessed, for there are then greater facilities of getting hold of him 
and mastering him. A person holding a horse by the bridle, and 
standing at his left side, can, if he draws his head towards him, 
and holds it down, prevent him from biting or doing any mischief : 
but if the man stands in front of the animal, it can strike at him and 
disengage itself from his hand, escape, and do an infinity of da- 
mage. 
In attempting to stop a furious and run-away horse, great pre- 
caution must be used. The essential point is to get hold of the 
bridle. If he has only a halter on, it is more difficult still : the per- 
son attempting it should endeavour to lay hold of the ear or the fore- 
lock. If he does not take all proper precautions, the animal will 
again escape, and frequently kick or injure the unfortunate person 
who impeded his progress. A fiery horse, harnessed to a carriage, 
