EDITORIAL OBSERVATIONS. 
235 
part of the crust at which the spread is observed, by its causing a 
gradual shelving-out and augmented growth of the hoof at this 
part. 
4. That in the well-formed foot, in a state of nature, there is 
always some degree of spread or shelving upon the outer quarter. 
5. That, on the contrary, the spread or shelving will sometimes 
be found on the inner quarter ; while the outer quarter has the ap- 
pearance of being “ misshapen” or “ contracted.” 
6. That not only the shape but the size and kind of the foot 
will be in consonance with the horse’s form (or particular make) 
and action : hence to the less amount of weight they have to sup- 
port may we attribute the differences between the shapes of the 
hind and fore feet. By the same rule do likewise the hoofs of the 
ass, mule, and zebra, differ in shape from that of the horse. 
These are the notions conveyed to our mind by Mr. Hodgson’s 
paper, as being those which have not hitherto been developed to 
the extent and in the shape he has now set them forth. The asso- 
ciations admit of ready recognition if founded, as said to be, upon 
the broad basis of observation. Horse’s feet are open to every- 
body’s inspection ; and though the drawing-knife, aided by the 
fettering caused by the nails to outward growth, has, in too many 
of them, owing to the length of time such agents have been an- 
tagonizing Nature’s operations, obliterated all, or nearly all, de- 
monstrable spread , yet will sufficient marks of shelving probably 
remain upon the wall to enable us to say, without lifting the foot, 
on which quarter the spread inclines, and whereabouts, were growth 
of hoof permitted to proceed, it would most certainly develop 
itself. This point being ascertained, we have only to institute a 
comparison between the shape and quality of the hoof and the 
contour and action of the limb, to feel convinced of the reason and 
truth of Mr. Hodgson’s new views concerning the economy of 
horses’ (and other animals’) feet. — In closing this notice, we may 
inform those who partake of our own interest in such matters, that 
Mr. Hodgson has made a collection of small woodcuts, illustrative 
of the foregoing doctrines, which he has most kindly sent to us ; 
and we should feel pleasure in shewing and explaining the same, 
to the best of our ability, to any veterinarian honouring us with 
a call. 
