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STABLE PRACTICE

OR,

HINTS ON TRAINING

FOR

THE TURF, THE CHASE, AND THE ROAD

WITH OBSERVATIONS

ADDRESSED TO ALL WHO ARE CONCERNED IN

KACING, STEEPLE-CHASING, AND
FOX-HUNTING.

BY CECIL,

AUTHOR OF " THE STUD FARM.'

LONDON:
LONGMAN, BROWN, GREEN, AND LONGMANS.

1852.

London ;

Spottiswoodes and Shaw,
New-street-Square.

PREFACE.

The object of this work is to point out the best
means to render the horse fit for "actual service" of
every kind.

The mysteries which formerly enshrouded the
stable have long been laid bare ; and we trust that we
shall here offer to the young aspirant for racing fame,
and the no less ardent admirer of the chase, such
hints as may assist both in the treatment of their
respective coursers.

Any person who is fond of horses, endowed with
moderate assiduity, observation, and judgment, may
direct the management of a few race-horses or steeple-
chasers, so as to find in it a source of vast amusement
and excitement without encountering the expense of
public training stables.

With respect to hunters, the majority of those who
delight in the chase generally superintend their own
stables. Those who keep stud grooms, have other
A 2

IV PREFACE.

pursuits and pleasures. To the latter, I can scarcely
expect that many of these hints will be of great use ;
but to the former who are just entered in the field of
life I presume that they may ; and even to those who
have made some further progress in the run, in which
it is the ambition of all to excel, I flatter myself with
the hope of being able to add a few wrinkles, not such
as shall emanate from, but be a means of softening,
care.

In the " Stud Farm" — a companion volume — all
the subjects connected with a breeding establishment
and the management of horses up to, a certain point,
are fully discussed ; particularly those which treat on
Food, Physic, and Shoeing : hence I have not thought
it necessary to enter upon these topics further than
appeared indispensable to a clear understanding of the
work.

CECIL.

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER I.

STABLES.

Imperfection of Stables in general. — Habits of the Horse. — Import-
ance of adequate Stabling. — Aspect. — General Arrangement. —
Loose Boxes. — Security. — Social Disposition of Horses. — Uniform
Temperature. — Construction of Stables. — Arrangement of Doors.
— Interior of Loose Boxes. — Precaution against Crib-biting. —
Reference to the " Stud Farm." — Neatness. — Economy — Saddle-
room. — Hot or Drying-closet ... - Page 1

CHAP. II.

EXERCISE- GROUND.

Varieties of Soils. — Effects on Legs and Feet. — Elasticity of some.
Kinds of Turf. — Clay Land deprecated. — Dry Land recommended.
— Gravel objectionable. — Bond of Soil most suitabJfe. — Application
of Tan. — Newmarket. — Arrangements of the Jockey Club. —
Worm-casts. — Variety of Training-ground. — Affected by "Weather.
—The Warren Hill.— Cambridge Hill. — Other Gallops.— Epsom.
— Influence of Railways. — State of the Ground. — Leatherhead
and Mickleham Downs. — Interesting Scenery. — The Hednesford
Hills. — Cleeve Hill. — Berkshire, Wiltshire, Dorsetshire, and
Hampshire Downs. — Whitewall. — Noblemen and Gentlemen's
Parks. — Natural Formation, and the Effects. — Management of

Exercise-ground Ploughed Gallop. — Riding Race-horses with

Hounds. — Objection to Ploughed Gallops when dusty. — Extent
of Exercise-ground. — Fences for Steeple-chasers aud Hunters.
— Proximity of Training-ground to the Stables - - 7

A 3

VI CONTENTS.

CHAP. HI.

THE DUTIES OF A TRAINER.

A responsible and arduous Undertaking.— Difficulties. — Vicissi-
tudes of fortune —Suspicion. — Indiscretion. — Opportunities of
Betting. — Comparative Position of Private and Public Trainers. —
Invidious Characters. — Calumny. — Trying Horses. — Motives of
Owners of Horses.— Abstract Duties —Economy.— True Definition

of Economy Charges for Training. — Argument thereon. — A

Trainer's Calculation. — Abatement when Provender is reasonable.

— Proposal of Agreement. — Combined Interests. — Partnerships. —
Conditions.— Objections.— Aggregate Number of Persons engaged
in training Horses. — List of Public Trainers - Page 16

CHAP. rv.

HEAD LADS AND STAELE-BOTS.

Employment of Head Lads. — The Title. — Avocation.— Necessary-
Qualities. — Temptations. — Tact. — Anecdote. — Discretion. —
Advantages of Light Weights. — Regularity. — Correction of Boys.

— Obedience. — Number of Boys required. — Selection of Boys. —
Terms of Engagement.— Fust Employments. — Horsemanship.—
Degrees of Superiority. — Anatomical Proportions. — Confidence.

— Instruction to Boys in the Art of Eiding. — Seat. — Management
of the Reins. — Error of inexperienced Riders. — The Power of
Horsemen accounted for.— Hands, and their Position. — Neglect
of teaching Boys properly. — Tricks played by Stable-boys.—
Mischief occasioned - - - - -24

CHAP V.

HUNTING- GROOMS AND HELPERS.

Comparative Duties of Trainers and Hunting- Grooms. Gradations.

Gentlemen Grooms. — Single-handed Grooms. — Occasional

Assistance. — Inexperienced Servants. — Anecdote of a Gentleman
Groom. — The Use of Drugs restricted. — A Veterinary Education
for Hunting- Grooms deprecated. — Helpers and their Duties. —
Covert Lads. — Second Horse Lads - - - 36

CONTEXTS. Vll

CHAP. VI.

BREAKING.

Effects of Education. — A Comparison. — Progressive Tuition of
Race-horses. — Young Hunters. — Reference to the " Stud Farm."

— Good Horsemen essential on young Horses. — Alarm to be
avoided with young Race-horses when at Exercise. — Pace
proportioned to the Advancement in Condition. — Importance
of a good Mouth. — Improvement of Action. — Effected by
appropriate Bridles judiciously handled. — One-sided Mouths. —
Disadvantages which ensue. — Remedies. — Teaching Horses to
leap. — May be done without Hounds. — Confidence necessary to
make good Fencers. — Falls to be avoided. — Leading over a Bar
or Fence. — Impropriety of Hurry or Confusion. — Riding at
Fences. — Horses ought not to be taken repeatedly over the same
Fence. — Accomplished Hunters from Stables of eminent Dealers.
— Distinct Characters of Riders to Hounds. — Difficulty in procur-
ing first-rate Hacks.— Reason why they are found in the Stables of
the Affluent. — Time requisite to cultivate Perfections. — Temper. —
Proper Age to endure "Work. — Ladies' Horses, and the Accomplish-
ments requisite in Hacks. — Shying. — Alternatives. — Objects
which Horses encounter in Towns. — Starting. — Young Horses

should be accustomed to various Objects. — Harness Horses

Breaking to Harness. — Putting Horses to Carnages. — A precau-
tionary Method, and its Advantages. — Reasons why some Horses
are refractory. — The Duties of an Assistant. — Carts deprecated.
— Vicious Horses. — Effects of mild Treatment illustrated. — On
Bridles. — Mouths. — Hands. — Severe Bits, Objections to. —
Snaffles. — Pelhams. — Curb Bits. — Nose-bands.— Choice of Bits.

— Bridles for pleasure Horses. — A Change recommended. —
Exercise Bridles - Page 43

CHAP. VH.

STABLE DISCIPLINE.

Comments. — System. — Importance of minor Observances. — Ap-
plicable alike in Racing and Hunting Stables. — Advantages of
Regularity. — Time of commencing Stable-work. — Routine Duties.
A4

Vlll CONTENTS.

— Preparing for Exercise. — Going to Exercise. — Dressing
after Exercise. — Feeding. — Afternoon Performances. — Washing
Hunters. — Two Helpers employed. — Quietude - Page 68

CHAP. vin.

TRAINING AT TWO TEARS OLD.

Diversity of Opinions. — Events which determine the Propriety of
early Eacing. — Overgrown Stock. — Undersized Stock. — Effects of
early Eacing on overgrown Colts. — Distinction between the Work
necessary for present and future Engagements. — Large Horses
require much Time for Training. — Eeasons why small Horses are
capable of running at an earlier Age than large Ones. — Weedy
Stock. — Consequences of Procrastination. — Opinions formed from
extreme Cases. — Circumstances calculated to determine the Pro-
priety of running at Two Years old. — Action. — Change of Action.

— Causes thereof. — Action in some Cases restored by Eest. —
Management of a Candidate for a forthcoming Derby. — Moderate
Work recommended at Two Years old. — Paramount Object. —
Betting Adventures. — Comparison of Work between young and
old Horses and between Boys and Men. — Customs of Trainers. —
State of young Stock. — Their Nutrition, Growth, and Work con-
sidered.— Eeference to the " Stud Farm." — Time when Yearlings
should become Inmates of the Training Stables. — Gradual Pre-
paration.— Increase of Work. — Successful Treatment in certain

Stables. — Owners of Horses. — Patronage Two Years Old

Stakes - - - - - - -75

CHAP. IX.

FIRST AND SECOND PREPARATIONS.

Physic. — Indications. — Cooling Lotions. — The Tendons. — The
Hocks. — Concussion. — Over- exertion, its Effects. — Eest. —
Diuretics. — Increase of Work. — Trainer's or Groom's Judgment.

— Objects to be gained. — Healthy State of the Blood. — Disorders
produced. — Faculties of Animals. — Increased Power of sustaining
Work. — Duration of daily Exercise. — First Preparation con-
nected with Breaking. — Period required. — Circumstances which

CONTENTS. IX

denote the Necessity of Physic. — Distinction between First and
Second Preparations. — Sweating. — All Horses cannot bear the
same Quantity of Exercise. — Trials - - - Page 82

CHAP. X.

FINAL PREPARATION.

Work to be regulated by Circumstances. — Symptoms denoting the
requisite Quantity of Work. — When insufficient. — When pro-
perly apportioned. — When too severe. — Venial Error. — Com-
parison between old and young Horses. — Daily Exercise. —
Walking. — State of the Evacuations. — Irritability of the Bowels.

— Sometimes produced by Cold. — Remedy. — Cantering. — Po-
sition for the Trainer. — Examination after pulling up. — To be
brought Home cool, but not suffered to become chilled. — Time
when the strongest Work is recommended. — Sweats preferable to
rattling Gallops. — Notes of Preparation. — The final Gallop. —
Indications of Fitness to run. — Treatment on the Day prior to run-
ning. — Necessary Examinations. — The Muzzle. — Alternatives
with irritable Horses. — Examples. — Quietude of Stables desirable.

— Treatment on the Morning of running. — Leading out. — Treat-
ment on returning. — Exercise distinguished from Work. — Cir-
cumstances under which Exercise is proper. — Difference of Con-
stitution. ■ — Stout, muscular Horses. — Delicate Horses. — Eveiy
Horse has his Distance. — Hunters. — Exercise during the Hunting
Season. — Analogy between Hunters and Race-horses. — Steeple-
chase Horses - - - - •• -88

CHAP. XI.

SWEATING.

General Knowledge of the Term. — Necessity for the Process. —
Distinction between fat and muscular Horses. — Fat and its Use
described. — Phenomenon of the Blood. — Congestion of the
Lungs. — Nourishment from Fat. — Parts where Fat is deposited.

— Importance of Fat. — Effects of severe Sweating. — Young
Horses deposit Fat more constantly than old Ones. — Importance
of maintaining the Condition of old Horses. — The muscular
System considered. — The Action of the Muscles. — Muscular

CONTENTS.

Development. — Process of Sweating. — The proper Adaptation of
Clothing. — Material. — Distance. — Preparations. — Objection to
the Muzzle. — The Canter. —The Sweat. —Kind of Ground to be
selected. — Pace. — Idle Horses. — Caution against destroying the
Corn-age. — Kubbing-house or Place for Scraping. — Scraping
out of Doors. — Objection to Sweating in windy Weather. —

Observances at the Time of Scraping. — Scraping Gallop after

Sweating. — Routine of the Stable. — Expedition in Dressing. —
Danger from taking Cold. — Dry Hay preferable to Wet. — Tem-
perature of the Stable. — Breaking out. — Practice at Afternoon
Stable Time. — Causes of Horses breaking out. — Exercise on the
Day after Sweating. — Intervals between Sweats. — Varieties of
Constitutions. — Sweating Hunters - - Page 109

CHAP. XII.

Importance of Trials. — Causes of Mistakes. — Participation of
Trainers and Jockies. — Indifference respecting Trials. — Errors
of Judgment. — Comparison between Trials and public Races. —
Sceptical Opinions concerning Trials. — Touts. — Circumspection
necessary. — Trying Two Year Olds. — Preparation requisite. —
Placing Horses. — Qualifications. — Weights. — Reference to
Handicaps. — 'False Conclusions. — Speed of aged Horses. — Pace.
— Boys not eligible to ride Trial Horses. — Sagacity of old Horses.
— Contradictory Results. — Elat and hilly Courses. — Inference in
Work, but actual Trials necessary. — Case of Prejudice. — Caution
against Touts. — Trial Saddles. — Caution with Boys. — Place of
finishing Trial — Skill of Touts. — Indiscretion. — Anecdote - 122

CHAP. XIII.

MANAGEMENT OF THE LEGS AND FEET.

Difficulty of training Horses with bad Legs and Feet. — Hunters. —
Causes, Remedies, and restorative Measures. — The back Sinews,
and Treatment of them. — Caution. — Injurious Effects of hard
Ground. — Alternative. — Comparison between Race-horses and
Hunters. — Remedy. — Rest sometimes imperative. — Treatment
after the Sinews have given way. — Recipe. — Sore Shins. — Relief.

CONTENTS. Xi

— Cooling Applications, and Mode of applying them. — Arnaca.
— Keeping Horses at Work. — Stimulants. — Biniodide of Mer-
cury.— Injuries to which Hunters are liable. — Fomentations. —
Bandages. — Blows. — Thorns. — Poultices. — Stubs. — Cold
Water. — Over-reaches. — The Pastern Joints. — Synovia, its
Use. — The Hind Legs. — Cracked Heels. — Ointments. — Recipe
for cracked Heels. — Preventive Agency of Food and Exercise. —
Case in point. — Bruises of the Soles. — No Protection afforded to
the Soles of the Feet by Plates. — Fomenting the Feet. — Tar
Ointment. — Precaution. — Plating. — Texture of the Feet, and
Treatment. — Bad Feet. — Good Feet. — Consequences of Neglect.
— Observances after Removal of Shoes. — Caution to Smiths.

Page 133

CHAP. XIV.

The Importance of good Shoeing. — Perceptible Improvement in
the Art. — Navicular Lameness less frequent. — Causes. — Heavy
Shoes deprecated. — Effects of Horses slipping. — Casualties in the
Hunting Field from slipping. — Descriptions of Shoes calculated to
prevent Horses from slipping. — Shoes for the hind Feet. — Re-
marks on Shoes. — Corns. — Racing Plates. — Plating Steeple-
chasers.— Light Shoes recommended - - - 150

CHAP. XV.

BANDAGES AND BOOTS.

Prejudice confuted. — Materials. — Dry Bandages. — Their Use and
Effects after washing the Legs. — Their Use and Effects sub-
sequently. — Benefits derived from Bandages. — Linen Bandages.

— Cold Water. — Cooling Lotion. — Mode of applying it. — Cold
Bandages for Exercise. — Recommended for Hunters. — Treat-
ment of the Legs of Hunters after severe Work. — Distinction be-
tween warm Woollen Bandages and cold Linen ones. — Proper
Method of adjusting Bandages. — Bandages or Boots for Exercise.
— Merits and Demerits of each compared. — India Rubber Boots.

— Objections to them. — A Case in point. — Best description of Boots
for Hunters - - - - - - 160

Xll CONTENTS.

CHAP. XVI.

CLOTHING.

Display of Taste. — Colours. — Texture. — Shape. — Material for
Sweaters. — Stable Suits. — Precaution against Dampness. —
Rollers, and their Adjustment. — Tearing the Clothing. — Pre-
ventives. — Example. — Crib-biting. — Remedies. — An incor-
rigible Crib-biter - - - - - Page 169

CHAP. XVH.

PHYSIC

Importance of Physic Constitution to be consulted. — Circum-
stances which indicate the Propriety of giving Physic to Race-
horses. — Reference to Formula. — Circumstances which indicate
the Propriety of giving Physic to Hunters. — On Alteratives. —
Reference to the " Stud Farm " - - - 175

CHAP. XVIU.

TRAVELLING.

An Apostrophe Exorbitant Charges made to Owners of Race-
horses Comparison with other Classes of Travellers. — Extor-
tions counteracted by Railways. — Economy of Railway Travelling.
— Inconveniences of travelling by the Road. — The Time neces-
sarily occupied. — Touts disappointed. — Effects of Road Travelling
on the Legs and Feet. — Weather. — Cost per Diem of travelling
by the Road. — Sweating essential afterwards. — Precautions

against Alarm and Injury Horses to be walked a few Miles

after Railway Travelling. — Impertinent Curiosity defeated. —
Construction of Vans. — Expense of Posting. — Observances when
travelling on the Road. — Boys walking with their Horses. —
Objections thereto. — Road Travelling seldom imperative. —
Influence of Railways on Race Meetings - - - 179

CONTENTS. Xlll

CHAP. XIX.

CLIPPING AND SINGEING.

Clipping very generally practised. — Nimrod's approval Necessity

for artificial Remedies. — Inconvenience of a rough Coat. —
Trouble and Labour avoided. — Delicate Skins and fine Coats. —
Singeing preferable to Clipping. — Reasons- thereon — Horses can
be singed however long their Coats. — Practical Illustration. —
Gas versus Naphtha. — The apparatus to use Gas. — Nonsus-
ceptibility of Cold. — Evidence thereon. — Objections. — Phe-
nomenon of blind Horses. — Not accounted for, although attempted.
— Blind Horses formerly used in Stage Coaches. — Importance
of a fine Coat. — Health of the Skin promoted. — Objectionable
Nostrums. — The Skin can be most thoroughly cleansed when the
Coat is short - Page 185

CHAP. XX.

Effects on the Constitution. — Events which influence those Effects. —
Caution. — Stimulus to Exertion. — Race Riding, a laborious Oc-
cupation,— Importance of Condition in a Jockey. — Recommended
to Hunting Men. — Severe abstinence from Food deprecated. —
Practical Experience of moderate Living and long Walks. — De-
privations of Jockies. — Hunger and Thirst. — Causes which affect
Hunger. — Causes which affect Thirst. — Selection of appropriate
Food and Drink. — Comparison between Wasting and Training.

— Preliminary Observances. — Aperient Medicines Excessive

Use of Epsom Salts. — Practical Anecdote. — Walking, and the
usual Observances. — Pace. — Perspiration promoted. — Remedy
for blistered Feet.— Walking on the Morning of a Race.— Amount
reduced. — Temptation. — Diet. — Beverage. — Smoking - 193

CHAP. XXI.

RACE RIDING.

Race Riding as a Profession for Gentlemen. — Difficulty of the Art.

— Incapability of young Jockies. — Attainment of Superiority. —
Comparison between good and inferior Jockies. — Integrity. —
Initiation. — Patience. — Pace. — Definition of the Term. — Examples.

XIV CONTENTS.

— Peculiarity of Temper and Action. — Indications of Pace.— Start-
ing. — Precautions. — Starting when the Orders are to wait. —
Starting when the Orders are to make running. — Securing a good
Start. — Challenges in running. — Distinction between Jockies and
Boys respecting Orders. — Turning Courses. — A Rule of Racing. —
Example thereon. — Queries. — A fine Race. — A Stratagem. —
Disadvantage of making running. — The Rush. — Preparing to set
to, and finishing. — Whip and Spurs. — Praise and Censure. — Cir-
cumstances which denote the Propriety of making a waiting Race.
. —Of making Play - Page 205

CHAP. XXII.

HANDICAPPING, AND THE EFFECT OF WEIGHT.

Prevailing Taste. — Connection between Betting and Handicap
Races. — Policy of Handicaps. — Tendency to encourage Frauds.

— Protest of the Jockey Club. — Penalties for Frauds. — Useless
Punishment censured. — Qualifications of Handicappers. — Difficul-
ties connected with the Duty. — Reasons why the Public are led
into Error. — Pace. — Influence of Pace. — Light Weights. — Ar-
gument relative to Weights. — Mistaken Notions respecting
Weights. — Handicapping dark Horses. — Necessity for a System
of Handicapping. — Handicappers should see Horses run. —
Stratagems detected. — Extra Weights for Frauds.— The Principle
denounced by Offenders. — Their Arguments confuted. — Im-
possibility of Handicapping from Paper. — Handicap Committee.

— Illicit Practices defeated by System. — Paid Handicappers. —
Horses started at Country Meetings for certain Purposes. —
Advantages of a Committee. — Firmness indispensable in a Handi-
capper. — An Occurrence. — Responsibility of Stewards and Com-
mittees. — Distinction between Handicappers, Starters, and Judges
of Races. — Restrictive Powers. — Owners of Horses and Trainers
complete the Handicaps - - - - 218

CHAP. XXIII.

REMARKS.

Commencement of Racing. — Progress of Racing. — Introduction of
Betting. — Book-making. — Importance of Betting to Racing. —

CONTENTS. XV

.A Delusion. — -"Way in which'Betting is prejudicial to the Turf. —
Analysis of Betting. — Popularity of Racing. — Effects of popu-
lous Meetings. — Present Condition of Pacing. — A Glance at
the Rules of Racing. — Racing as an Amusement for the People.
— Not suitable as a Speculation for the Million. — Effects of
Handicaps on the Breed of Horses. — Their Effects on Racing —
Comparison of the Condition of Hunters and Race-horses. —
Condition promoted by suitable Eood. — Necessity of pure Air and
Exercise. — Large Enclosures not conducive to Exercise. — Com-
parison. — Evils of large Pasture-fields. — Reasons why half-bred
Stock is, in general, longer in coming to Maturity than thorough-
bred.—Argument. — Conclusion - Page 230

STABLE PRACTICE.

CHAPTER I.

STABLES.

Imperfection of Stables iu general. — Habits of the Horse Import-
ance of adequate Stabling. — Aspect. — General Arrangement. —
Loose Boxes.— Security.— Social Disposition of Horses.— Uniform
Temperature. — Construction of Stables, — Arrangement of Doors.

— Interior of Loose Boxes. — Precaution against Crib-biting.

Beference to the " Stud Farm." — Neatness. — Economy. Saddle-
room. — Hot or Drying-closet.

So much has already been written upon Stables,
and so many improvements have been made in
the construction of these edifices, that it may be
doubted whether I can offer anything worthy of
notice on this head ; but I am bold enough to
affirm there are very few stables that are really
conveniently constructed for race-horses and hunters.
Architects are seldom aufait of stable management,
and those who are conversant with the latter have
rarely the skill or the knowledge to make designs
for buildings.

2 STABLE PRACTICE.

By viewing the habits of the horse in a state of
nature, we might be led to the conclusion that, when
domesticated, he would require no buildings of any-
kind for his accommodation : experience, however,
teaches us that he must be sheltered from the vicissi-
tudes of this climate, and, above all, that the stables
which he inhabits imperatively require the most scru-
pulous nicety of arrangement, if the utmost amount
of his powers is to be made subservient to our use.

The aspect of the stable forms the first subject
for consideration. It should invariably face the
south or west. It may be inquired, if the principal
stables are to occupy that position, how the other
parts of the yard can be arranged without a con-
siderable waste of ground. The northern and eastern
aspects may be appropriated to the back of the
dwelling-house, which will thus face the south ; out-
offices, saddle-rooms, coach-houses, and such like
edifices of minor importance will face the east.

General opinion is decidedly in favour of loose
boxes, to which, indeed, there can scarcely be a
dissentient voice. The space which they afford
enables the occupants to enjoy their ease and repose
much more perfectly than when they are confined
in stalls- The increased security when the doors
are closed is another great recommendation in favour
of loose boxes ; for, although bails may be, and
generally are, fitted from the walls. to the stall-posts,
they do not exclude the chance which a vicious or
restless horse may have of injuring or annoying his
neighbours in the event of his getting loose.

STABLES. 3

The social disposition manifested by many horses
is such as to render them dissatisfied when shut
up in boxes which do not communicate with ad-
joining ones ; on the other hand, some horses are
restless if not entirely secluded from their species.
An extensive range of boxes communicating with
each other, as they are usually built, is objectionable
when they are not all occupied, because in that case
it is difficult, in fact impossible, satisfactorily to
regulate the temperature. These objections may be
readily obviated in a very simple, economical, and
effective manner. Let each box be boarded to the
height of five feet and a half, and from thence to the
ceiling divided by iron bars. By having shutters to
fit from the top of the boarding to the ceiling, each
box may be rendered distinct from the adjoining
one, or open, as circumstances may require. Thus,
whether the building consists of only two boxes or
twenty, any number may be thrown open or closed,
as most convenient. Where there is a range of
boxes, it is desirable to have doors internally com-
municating from one to the other, so that a pussage
can be obtained, without opening the external doors,
in cold and windy weather. The arrangement
which appears superior to all others, for doors to
loose boxes, is that of having one spacious entrance
door to serve two boxes, the centre of which is
midway or parallel with the partition of the boxes :
an interior door also to each box, one opening on
the right, the other on the left hand. The advan-
tages of this plan are twofold, — a communication is
b 2

4 STABLE PRACTICE.

effected from one box to another without opening
the outer door; and on all occasions, except when
the horses are passing in or out, the outer door
can be closed, if desirable, before the inner door to
either box is opened.

To render the interior complete, the boxes should
be boarded all round, to the height of five feet and a
half, with strong yellow deal or oak, one inch thick.
The latter material is, doubtless, to be preferred, on
account of its strength. If the former is made use of,
hoop iron in strips will be required to prevent horses
from biting it. Ever prone to' mischief, unless such
a precaution is taken, they will not only destroy the
wood, but they will contract bad habits. In fact,
all wood-work which they can take hold of with their
teeth should be secured with iron, the expense of
which is trifling.

Having, in the." Stud Farm," treated on the sub-
jects of roofing, ventilation, paving, fittings, and the
materials calculated for stabling, it is unnecessary to
repeat them here, as similar arrangements and pre-
cautions are applicable for stables occupied by horses
in training and hunters. It may be deemed neces-
sary to finish them more elaborately, but that is
quite a matter of taste. The inmates will derive no
benefit from the ornamental decorations of the
buildings they inhabit ; and though elegance of de-
sign is pleasing to the eye, and on that account com-
mendable, it ceases to be so if introduced at the
expense of more urgent conveniences. Well-con-
structed stables may be erected at a comparatively

STABLES. 0

trifling cost", provided the plans are well drawn.
Neatness and appropriateness are more in keeping
than the ostentatious display of architectural embel-
lishments. The economy of labour is also an item
worthy of attention. A never-failing supply of
water is indispensable ; and, unless the receptacles
for hay and straw are conveniently placed, the ser-
vants' time will be unnecessarily employed in sweep-
ing away the fragments, in order to preserve that
cleanliness and neatness which are essential to the
appearance of a well-conducted establishment.

As a necessary addendum to the stable, the saddle-
room must not be omitted, the judicious arrangement
of which will considerably diminish labour, and be
the means of preserving those articles for which it is
especially constructed.

On first entering a stable-yard, nothing proclaims
more accurately the manner in which the establish-
ment is conducted than the appearance of the saddle-
room. Well furnished with nicely arranged appoint-
ments made by skilful workmen, a neatly kept saddle-
room presents an agreeable show ; but, on the other
hand, if the various articles are lying about in con-
fusion, imperfectly cleaned, and left to be finished
off when wanted, the apartment suggests ideas of
chaotic irregularity, which, in all probability, will be
found to prevail throughout the establishment.

Among the fittings of a saddle-room, a hot closet
for the purpose of drying clothing is a convenience
of inestimable value ; and, as it can by proper arrange-
ment in the first instance be constructed at a trifling
b 3

6 STABLE PRACTICE.

expense, and kept in operation by the heat of the
ordinary fire, every person who consults economy
of labour will assuredly provide for this accommo-
dation.

In hunting stables, a loose box or enclosed shed
is almost indispensable for washing the legs and
dressing horses after their return from the chase.
Where the practice is adopted of washing horses all
over, an accommodation of the kind must be pro-
vided, as it is out of the question to perform such an
operation in the box or stall wherein the inmate
remains for the night ; and, under any circumstances,
such an arrangement is conducive to the order and
regular temperature of the apartment in which the
weaned creature takes his repose.

CHAP. II.

EXERCISE-GROUND.

Effects of Soils on Legs and Feet. — Elasticity of some Kinds
of Turf. — Clay Land deprecated. — Diy Land recommended. —
Gravel objectionable. — Kind of Soil most suitable. — Application
of Tan. — Newmarket. — Arrangements of the Jockey Club. —
"Worm-casts. — Variety of Training-ground. — Affected by Weather.
■ — The Warren Hill. — Cambridge Hill. — Other Gallops. — Epsom.

— Influence of Railways State of the Ground. — Leatherhead

and Mickleham Downs. — Interesting Scenery. — The Hednesford
Hills. — Cleeve Hill. — Berkshire, Wiltshire, Dorsetshire, and
Hampshire Downs. — Whitewall. — Noblemen and Gentlemen's
Parks. — Natural Formation and the Effects. — Management of
Exercise- ground. — Ploughed Gallop. — Riding Race-horses with
Hounds. — Objection to Ploughed Gallops when dusty. — Tanned
Gallop. — Extent of Exercise- ground. — Fences for Steeple-chasers
and Hunters. — Proximity of Training-ground to the Stables.

The effect produced on the legs and feet of horses
by the land on which they are worked is so great,
that it is of vital importance to select that which is
best adapted to the purpose. In some situations the
elasticity of the turf is so perfect, that the prints of
horses' feet are scarcely visible, although they may
be ridden over it at their best pace, and this without
the ground being hard. Where clay prevails, in dry
weather it will assume the rugged and unyielding
properties of rock, and rain will render it deep, tena-
cious, and holding, occasioning much undue fatigue
b 4

8 STABLE PRACTICE.

to the animals compelled to gallop over it. For the
purpose of training race-horses it is quite inappo-
site ; and for exercising hunters it should be avoided.
A dry surface is found to be mosi suitable to the
thoroughbred horse, during every stage of his exist-
ence. Those situations where gravel predominates
should not be chosen, because of its solid qualities,
and the concussion which it occasions. The eligible
kinds of land for this purpose are extensive tracts of
light loams, approximating to sand, with a substratum
of chalk ; sandy peats, if the surface be good enough
to bear a sound turf, and the bed sufficiently ab-
sorbent to take up the wet. If the land be too poor
and sandy, it will work in holes, and produce in-
equalities, but maybe improved by care, and judicious
application of manure; for which tan is to be pre-
ferred to any ether material. It must, however, be
laid on with discretion, in thin coats, and renewed
as the grass gnows through it, by which means, aided
by the use of the roller, and abstaining from gallop-
ing thereon until a fine texture of sward is established,
good ground for training upon may be cultivated.

The ground devoted to the purpose of exercise at
Newmarket is naturally good, except in very dry
weather, when it becomes somewhat hard. That
may be in a degree accounted for by the number of
horses trained thereon ; but the Stewards of the
Jockey Club, having discretionary power as to the
management, restrict persons from taking their
horses on those parts which have been much trodden
or cut up ; so that, by giving it rest, a new coat of

EXEECISE-GEOUND. V

verdure springs up. One of the advantages to be
derived from training at Newmarket consists in the
variety of ground available for that purpose; more
so, perhaps, than from the quality of the soil itself.
It is, however, found in excellent order during mo-
derately moist seasons, such as usually prevail in
spring and autumn. When requisite, there is the
Warren hill, which affords a gallop of nearly two
miles : and, taken in certain directions, it is a very
severe one, sufficient to bring the respiratory organs
into action to the fullest extent; indeed, meta-
phorically speaking, it is enough to break a horse's
heart if injudiciously made use of. The Cambridge
hill, on the London side of the town, is less severe,
and to be preferred, especially for the juveniles or
horses of delicate constitutions, besides being well
fitted to make the conclusion of any distance of
ground that ' may be deemed expedient to gallop
over.

Epsom Downs were once much resorted to by
owners of race-horses, owing to their proximity to
the metropolis. The Leatherhead Downs are, in my
opinion, preferable to any in this neighbourhood, so
far as the nature of the soil is considered ; the only
objection to them is the want of extent, which occa-
sions a good deal of turning to obtain a gallop of
sufficient length. The Mickleham Downs, which
are close at hand, are also very good. It is scarcely
possible to conceive a more animating scene than
that which is here presented a few mornings prior to
the Derby day. The favourites are generally to be

10 STABLE PRACTICE.

seen taking their last gallop, prior to the eventful
contest, and many of the owners and others interested
in the race are here congregated, watching with in-
tense anxiety the stride of every candidate for the
blue ribbon of the turf. The scenery around is pic-
turesque and enchanting, and on a fine May morning
nothing can be more delightful.

The Hednesford Hills, in Staffordshire, are much
resorted to by the owners of horses connected with
the midland counties ; but they are not good unless
it be in the spring. When dry weather commences
they become insufferably hard-, the substratum being
a dense body of gravel. Several dressings of tan
would improve the surface, and, as there is an excel-
lent variety of hill and undulating ground all around
it, those remedies would be found well worth at-
tention.

Cleeve Hill, on which Cheltenham races were
wont to rejoice, presents a verdure well calculated for
training. It is close to the pleasant little village of
Prestbury, where the well-known Tom Olliver
resides, and combines the training of race-horses and
steeple-chasers.

There is a splendid tract of down land in Berk-
shire, extending from Ilsley and Lambourne to the
vicinity of Marlborough and Beckhampton, in Wilt-
shire. That on which Jones of Rockley train3 is
superlatively good. Beyond this, at Pimperne, in
Dorsetshire, where Percy resides, the exercise-ground
is capital.

In Hampshire, at Littleton, William Dilly, one of

EXERCISE-GROUND. 11

the most respectable men in his vocation, occupies
some downs of superior quality. The far-famed
Danebury establishment is in the same county. The
money and judgment expended by the late Lord
George Bentinck have rendered John Day's exercise-
ground second to none. The application of tan has
in this case been adopted with the most beneficial
results.

Never having been there, I can only notice the
training-ground at Whitewall, occupied by John
Scott, from report ; the appearance of his horses at
the post sufficiently indicates that everything con-
nected with the establishment is the best of its kind.

There is a vast number of noblemen and gentle-
men's parks in various parts of the kingdom admi-
rably adapted to the purpose of training horses,
but, with the exception of their hunters, very few are
trained at home.

The formation of exercise-ground is a point of im-
portance. To be thoroughly perfect it should have a
hill or an ascent, so that it may be used at the con-
clusion of the gallop, and that for a distance of nearly,
if not quite, half a mile. When attainable it is very
desirable that the ground should possess an undulating
form ; this may frequently be acquired by the direc-
tion in which the gallop is marked out. It is very
important that every muscle of the horse in training
should be brought into action, to do which a variety
of ground is necessary. Another reason, likewise,
may be given for this recommendation : — as the form
of race-courses varies, it is requisite that every horse

12 STABLE PRACTICE.

should be so trained in his exercise as to accommo-
date himself to those variations : if only accustomed
to take his exercise on the flat he would be much
inconvenienced when required to face a hill; or, if
invariably trained against a hill, he would be unable
to adapt himself to that length of stride essential to
success on a flat course. While it may be truly
remarked that some animals show their superiority
on flat courses and others on hilly ones, yet it is
highly necessary that the ground on which they are
worked should vary.

Some care is necessary with the soundest and
strongest turf to keep it in good order, especially in
wet weather, and with a number of horses daily
galloping over it. To avoid as much as possible
working in the same tracks will further this end very
materially, and the use of the roller at proper seasons
will press in the foot-marks ; but the less that imple-
ment is resorted to the better after the aforesaid
operation is accomplished, as on most soils it has the
effect of rendering them too solid.

Very few soils are of so excellent a quality as not
to become hard in dry weather. To meet this diffi-
culty, ploughed gallops have in many instances been
provided with success to a certain extent. Years
ago a trainer would have gone into hysterics, at the
bare suggestion of giving a horse in training a single

Do o o o ©

gallop on ploughed ground, but experience usually
overcomes prejudice, at least when the experiment
proves successful. I well remember, in my younger
days, informing my trainer that I intended to ride

EXERCISE-GROUND. 13

with the hounds a five-year old horse I then had,
which had been in training and was intended to run
the ensuing summer. He said all he could to per-
suade me not to do so, remarking that, independently
of accidents, it would render him slow and worth-
less ; but I disregarded his admonitions, and the fol-
lowing season he ran much better than he had done
previously, although trained at home. When I rode
him with hounds I always had a second horse out,
and I am convinced many race -horses are better,
when so treated during the winter, than by being
only ridden at exercise by boys.

In dry weather, and that is the time when they
are generally in requisition, ploughed gallops are apt
to be very dusty ; which I consider the greatest
objection to them. This does not affect the horse
that is leading, but those which follow suffer from
the dust he throws in their faces, and portions being
inhaled must affect the delicate membranes of the
respiratory organs. To obviate this evil as much as
possible, not more than three or four horses should
be allowed to gallop in company ; and those which
follow, to use a sailor's term, should "lie to windward"
of those which go in front respectively, on every
available opportunity, and also keep wide apart;
directions which the boys will not fail to attend to
for their own convenience. This will not, however,
be a means of avoiding the dust when the wind is
directly in the horses' teeth, or if blowing hard when
] point blank on their quarters ; for, although horses
I have been described as possessing "speed to outstrip

14 STABLE PRACTICE.

the wind," there are times when they find it difficult
to "outstrip the dust." Another alternative, when
the ordinary galloping-ground is too hard, is to
cover a certain space with tan. This has an advan-
tage over ploughed land, as it does not give forth so I
much dust. It is, however, rather a costly addendum
but this scarcely appears to be an impediment where j
horses of great value are trained.

A tract of land where space can be commanded
to obtain a gallop of two miles, without a perceptible
turn, is a great desideratum: yet horses should be
occasionally accustomed to turn; otherwise, when they
are brought out to race, they will frequently ex-
perience much inconvenience from want of practice,
especially on such a course as that at Chester, and
many others on which country meetings are held.
A small confined exercise-ground, scarcely a mile in
circuit, may do to train steeple-chasers or work
hunters upon, but is not calculated for race-horses ;
constantly on the turn, they are no sooner in their
stirde but it must be shortened to enable them to
get round the turns, to say nothing of the injury they
are every moment liable to inflict upon themselves
by hitting their legs.

Where steeple-chase horses are trained, or even
where hunters are worked, it is desirable to have
some temporary fences erected on the ground for
practice. Well-disposed and good-humoured as
farmers are, taking them as a body, very few are
willing to have their land and fences ridden over by
horses at exercise. The fences require to be as much

EXERCISE-GROUND. 15

varied as possible, and, without presenting formidable
and dangerous barriers, should be sufficiently strong
to prevent horses running through them, or knock-
ing them down.

Many persons are of opinion that the exercise-
ground should be at some distance from the stables,
contending that, if the horses have two or three miles
to walk to it, their work cannot be commenced too
soon on leaving their stables. I cannot subscribe to
this opinion. Unless the training-ground is near at
hand, there are many days on which the horses will
not be able to go out at all, or, if they do, they will
get wet before they return. If a man has not
sufficient resolution and self-command to keep his
horses at walking exercise a proper length of time,
without something more than discretion to compel
him, he is not fit to have the superintendence of
a stud.

16 STABLE PRACTICE.

CHAP. III.

THE DUTIES OF A TRAINER.

A responsible and arduous Undertaking. — Difficulties. — Vicissi-
tudes of Fortune. • — Suspicion. — Indiscretion. — Opportunities of
Betting. — Comparative Position of Private and Public Trainers. —
Invidious Characters. — Calumny. — Trying Horses. — Motives of
Owner of Horses. — Abstract Duties. — Economy. — True Definition
of Economy. — Charges for Training. — Argument thereon. — A
Trainer's Calculation. — Abatement when Provender is reasonable.
Proposal of Agreement. — Combined Interests. — Partnerships. —
Conditions. — Objections. — Aggregate Number of Persons engaged
in training Horses. — List of Public Trainers. •

The duties of a trainer are amongst the most difficult
to fulfil with satisfaction. No ordinary vigour of
mind is necessary to enable him at once to direct effec-
tually the details of his calling, so that each animal
may be brought to the post in the best possible con-
dition, and to withstand the fearful temptations with
which he may be at times assailed. It is not only
necessary that he should be an adept in the art of
training, but he must also be conversant with the
arts of men, that he may be able to detect their
treacherous schemes, and, by detecting, avoid them.
Vigour of body is also necessary, that he may be able
to discharge his duties, which are at times fatiguing,
enhanced by the excitement which awaits the result
of every race. The current of prosperity will fre-

THE DUTIES OF A TRAINER. 17

quently carry men of weak minds into a Charybdis
of trouble ; more so than disappointment, which may
be overcome by assiduity. In racing affairs, the
vicissitudes of fortune are very frequent, and often
very extensive. Most trainers bet ; .and he who was
worth but little at the time of breaking his fast in
the morning, should he be successful in winning a
stake upon which his investments are extensive, may
be entitled to thousands ere he partakes of his dinner.
In the long run, I believe such speculations are not
profitable. A trainer has, of all other persons, the
best opportunity, when he finds a horse worthy of
an investment, of backing him at long odds, and
then, when the animal becomes a favourite, of hedg-
ing his money. Into how many temptations does
this lead him ? In the first place, he must use every
endeavour to enhance the merits of the horse ; in
the second, no person but himself knows how much
hedging money he sends into the market, or, in
plain English, if he is not tempted to stand heavily
against his charge.

ft o

Of the two, the duties of a private trainer are light
and easy compared with those who train for the
public. The former has simply the interests of his
master to consult ; but the latter, who has numerous
employers to please, sometimes finds it a difficult,
indeed a very arduous task, to steer clear of the
perplexities which beset him. It is too true that all
men have enemies, and those are the most dangerous
who ingratiate themselves under the mask of friend-

18 STABLE PRACTICE.

ship. There is a class of men connected with the
betting community, who will stop at nothing to ac-
complish their purposes. It is not reasonable to
imagine, that an individual who will risk his own
character, will be very scrupulous about the reputa-
tion of others. Such men, if they cannot insinuate
themselves under the cloak of miscalled confidence,
will not hesitate to circulate calumniating and false
reports. They are the most dangerous persons a
trainer can associate with.

A public trainer, having various horses under his
care, the respective property of different persons, is
not unfrequently supposed to have availed himself of
the information which he has the power of obtaining,
by trying the horses of his employers, or, at all
events, if not by trying them together, of obtaining
a measure by indirect means. In fact, some persons
send their horses to public trainers, under the im-
pression that they shall have the qualifications of
their horses scrupulously tested by this means.
Others there are who revolt at the idea of such a
proceeding. That such trials never ought to be !
permitted without the express sanction of the re-
spective owners, there can be no doubt. It is no
doubt a trainer's duty to prepare every horse that
may be placed under his care to the best of his abi-
lity, but it is not a part of his duty to try horses be-
longing to different employers for his own especial
advantage, or for the advantage of an individual
employer.

THE DUTIES OF A TRAINER. 19

• Most persons, whether they be owners of race-
horses or not, are desirous of practising economy;
but they frequently attempt it upon erroneous prin-
ciples. If the term be rightly defined in such cases,
it should signify the method of regulating expendi-
ture under circumstances the most likely to produce
profitable results ; it is not the mere saving of monev
that will on all occasions lead to a favourable termi-
nation, without the judicious calculation of contin-
gencies. With a view of having their stables filled,
trainers will, in some instances, engage to take a lot
of horses at a price below the usual rate ; but it is
very doubtful whether the owner of those horses
consults his own interest by entering into such an
arrangement. The charge is generally from thirty-
six shillings to two guineas per week, for the keep of
each horse and boy ; shoeing, medicine, and travelling
expenses not included. This may appear to yield a
considerable profit, especially when hay, corn, and
provisions are at a low price (and so, unquestionably,
it does) ; yet there are a few little items which
deserve notice. — In the first place, the hay and corn
must be of the very best quality, if the animals which
partake of it are to be brought out in a state fit to
run. The rental of appropriate stabling is another
consideration ; to which must be added the keep of
the boy : and lastly, an experienced trainer is entitled
to a compensation for his skill, over and above the
profit he may make upon his hay and corn. The
management of race-horses is a trust of considerable

c 2

20 STABLE PRACTICE.

magnitude, and when conducted with integrity merits
reward. When a man undertakes to train horses at
a reduced price, he calculates upon making up the
deficiency in some other way. He argues with
himself that the charge per week ought to be two
guineas ; but having agreed to take 305., he considers
how the difference can be balanced: thus inferior
provender is provided, or a system of betting put
into operation. The difference between two guineas
and 305. per week, for each horse, amounts to 211. 6s.
in the year; therefore, if one. horse wins only one
extra stake of 50/., he pays the difference for himself
and nearly that of a companion. Some abatement
may probably be expected, and very reasonably so,
in conformity with the times ; and if I were about
to enter into an arrangement with a public trainer
to take charge of a lot of horses, my conditions would
be somewhat in this fashion. Charge me a fair, but
not an exorbitant, price for each of my horses, and
let them have the best of every thing they require ;
but you must undertake not to bet upon any event
whatever in which they may be engaged. When we
have good reasons for backing any, I will get the
money on for you, and I will give you five per cent,
upon the amount of every stake I win. Such an
arrangement would give the trainer a pecuniary in-
terest over and above that of the reputation which
he gains by bringing the horses entrusted to his care
well to the post. It may be said, that if so disposed,
he can bet without his employers' knowledge : per-

THE DUTIES OF A TRAINER. 21

haps he can, and it is not impossible he may be found
out. But a man who is not worthy of confidence
for the fulfilment of a specific contract, is not worthy
of trust under any circumstances; and there is no
occupation in which a greater share of confidence
must of necessity be reposed than the one now under
consideration.

It is not a very unusual custom to enter into a
sort of partnership with a trainer, especially with
persons who have but one or two horses. This is
generally done in order to avoid any charge for keep
and training, and also to give the trainer a positive
interest in the horse's success. The terms are neces-
sarily regulated by the merits or supposed merits of
the animal. Take a promising untried two year old
as an example : the trainer would in all probability
require an actual half share in the colt, charge
nothing for keep, pay half the stakes, a similar
portion of jockey's fees, travelling and such like
expenses, and be entitled to receive half the stakes.
These arrangements are open to some objections, in-
asmuch as the original owner parts with half his
property without any positive recompense, and un-
questionably resigns all control over his horse.
That such terms have been satisfactory in many in-
stances I will not pretend to deny ; at the same time,
people must have very great reliance on each other
to enter into such compacts.

In "Bell's Life" of recent date there are nearly
ninety trainers enumerated, about a third of whom
c 3

22

STABLE PRACTICE.

are privately engaged : it is unnecessary, therefore, to
mention them ; but as the services of public trainers
may be required by some of my readers, a list of
these is subjoined, and a few added whose names do
not appear in the above-named authority.

PUBLIC TRAINERS.

Arnull, "William.
Bell, Heniy.
Boyce, Richard.
Cooper, Richard.
Daley, John.

At Newmarket.

Edwards, William.
Goodwin, William.
Perren, John. '
Pettit, Robert, jun.

In the Country.

Rayner, Charles.
Rogers, Joseph.
Smith, William.
Stephenson, — , s

Armstrong, James, Malton.

Balchin, W. and C, Sutton,
Surrey.

Clark, James, Newton.

Cunningham, T., Highfield, Mal-
ton.

Dallimore, J., Westbury, Wilts.

Day, J. B. and Son, Danebury,
Stockbridge.

Day, W., Woodyates, Salisbury.

Dawson, T., Middleham.

Dawson, J., Middleham.

Death, J., Ascot.

Dickens, S., Northampton.

Dilly, W., Littleton, Winchester.

Dockery, George, Epsom.

Eowler, W., Aintree, Liverpool.

Elintoff, T., Hednesford, Cannock.

Eryer, M., Haxby, York.

Gill, John, Richmond, Yorkshire.

Halliwell, J., Mayday Cottage,
Gullane.

Hesseltine, Robert, Hambleton.

Hopwood, J., Holcombe Hill,
Bury, Lancashire.

Hornsby, Charles, Barham, Can-
terbury.

I'Anson, W., Malton.

Jones, E., Rockley, Marlborough.

King, Young, Stockbridge.

Lord, S., Hednesford, Cannock.

Marson, J., Beverley.

Martin, R., Delamere Eorest,
Cheshire.

Nelson, R., Thicklands, Hudders-
field.

Noble, George, Beverley.

Oates, George, Middleham.

Olliver, Thomas, Prestbury, Chel-
tenham.

PUBLIC TRAINERS.

92

Oseland, R., Richards Castle;
Ludlow.

Osborne, J., Middleham.

Parlby, J., Berry Hill.

Peck, Charles, Malton.

Percy, H., Pimperne, Blandford.

Peace, J., Delamere Forest, Tar-
porley.

Price, T., Cheddington, Ayles-
buiy.

Rutherford, W., Bogside, Ayr-
shire.

Saddler, Wm, Houghton Down,
Stockbridge.

Saunders, William, Hednesford,
Cannock.

Scott, John, Whitewall, Malton.

Scott, William, Prestbury, Chel-
tenham.

Shepherd, J., Malton.

Thompson, W., Middleham.

Thorp, C. L., Bennethorpe, Don-
caster.

Turner, Thomas, Chester.

Wadlow, Henry, Stanton, Shif-
nal.

Wilkins, J., Aintree, Liverpool.

Winteringham, J. and C., Rich-
mond, Yorkshire.

Woolcot, Isaac, Stockbridge.

Wycherley, H., Epsom.

c 4

24 STABLE PRACTICE.

CHAP. IV.

HEAD LADS AND STABLE-BOYS.

Employment of Head Lads. — The Title. — Avocation. — Necessary-
Qualities. — Temptations. — Tact. — Anecdote. — Discretion. —
Advantages of Light Weights. — Regularity. — Correction of Boys.

— Obedience. — Number of Boys required. — Selection of Boys. —
Terms of Engagement. — First Employments. — Horsemanship. —
Degrees of Superiority. — Anatomical Proportions. — Confidence.

— Instruction to Boys in the Art of Riding. — Seat. — Management
of the Reins. — Error of inexperienced Riders. — The Power of
Horsemen accounted for. — Hands, and their Position. — Neglect
of teaching Boys properly. — Tricks played, by Stable-boys. —
Mischief occasioned.

It is scarcely possible to conduct the management
even of a small training establishment, whether
private or public, without the assistance of a head
lad, who is generally promoted from the ranks of
stable-boys. Somewhat akin to the post-boys of the
olden time, these functionaries retain the title of
juvenility, although they may be advanced in years ;
it is a distinction applied to the occupation, and being
one in which considerable trust is reposed, there is
no inconsistency in selecting one of mature age. A
trainer, or superintendent, must, of necessity, be now
and then away from home, and then the charge of
the stable department devolves on the head lad. He
is also required to maintain a subordinate command

HEAD LADS AND STABLE-BOYS. 25

over the boys ; .and therefore, to be worthy of the ap-
pointment, he must possess many good qualities, of
which implicit obedience to orders is one of the first.
Unless he strictly sets the example of obedience, he
will not be able to exact it from those who are under
him. In every case where it can be conveniently
practised, it will be found a good plan to issue direc-
tions to the boys, through the head lad, as it will
accustom them to obey his instructions. Without
exercising tyranny, he must exact compliance, and
to that end should, on his promotion, cease from
familiarities with his late associates. To create
irespect, he must demean himself respectably. That
he should be a good horseman is of the utmost im-
portance ; for he will not only have to ride the most
difficult horses, but he will have to instruct the boys
in the art of equestrianism. For this and other
reasons, he must be good tempered. Cleanliness in
his own person, with a perfect regard to order, punc-
tuality, and neatness in every department over which
he has any control, are essential habits ; and unless
he is gifted with discretion in not making unneces-
sary and improper communications, he is not fit for
his place. As he will often be tempted to betray the
interests of his employer, he requires the combined
merits of integrity and firmness. When questions
kre put to him relative to any horses or affairs con-
nected with the stable, he should possess the tact,
without incivility or direct falsehood, of evading those
questions.

A very trustworthy lad, whom I had in my em-

26 STABLE PRACTICE.

ployment several years, possessed this faculty in
great perfection. On one occasion, when on the
road to Bath races in charge of two horses, he was
met by a gentleman, who inquired " Whose horse?
they were." " If you please, sir, I cannot tell you.''
" What races are you going to ? " was a sequenl
question; and that was replied to by a similai
answer. Several other unimportant queries met witr.
precisely the same fate. Two or three days after-
wards, when on my way to the races, I met the same
gentleman, who was an old acquaintance ; and in th<
course of conversation I mentioned my destination
" Oh ! " he exclaimed, e ' were those your horses \
saw on the road a few days since ? " at the same tim<
giving a description of them : upon which, I sai(
they were. " A strange sort of lad that of yours
who had the care of them," he observed ; and relate*
to me what had passed. " I hope he was not uncivi
to you ? " I inquired. " No, by no means," he said
" the young man was very respectful ; but all
could get out of him was, * Sir, I cannot tell you.'
" I do not understand," said I to my friend, " tha
Stay servant has told you any untruth, or acted in an;
way improperly. On the contrary, had he givei
direct answers to any stranger, he would have don
so in defiance of general orders. His having replie<
'he could not tell,' implied that some definite cir
cumstance controlled him." As the gentleman ii
question was not in any way connected with racing
it would not have signified in the slightest degre i
if he had received the most explicit replies to th

HEAD LADS AND STABLE-BOYS. 27

Ipiestions which he put, unless he might have in-
lidvertently given the information he had received to
others who might have made a bad use of it. For
nstance, supposing the horses had been intended to
;un for stakes which had not closed, and the inquiry
nade what races they were going to" run for : the
imswer, being given, would not have been of the least
[importance to the inquirer, but he might meet with
mother friend en route to the same meeting, to whom
be might mention that certain horses were gone to
Bath to run for certain stakes ; and thus if the latter
person happened to have any of inferior merit, he
would be deterred from entering them. Such a
question being once replied to, it is impossible to
know where the news may circulate ; and on the eve
of race meetings there are invariably numbers of
inquisitive persons about, endeavouring to collect all
possible intelligence for all possible purposes. To
all inquiries of a similar nature, head lads, and all
other lads, should have the answer ready, — " If you
please, sir, I cannot tell you."

It is desirable, although not a sine qua non, that
a head lad should be a light weight, as in that case he
is the most proper person to lead gallops, ride trials
and sweats, and may be occasionally put up to ride
races ; the latter profession, however, if the indi
vidual possesses sufficient ability, usually gives rise t<
'ambitious notions incompatible with the duties o
this service.

No colony enjoys internal peace and order, unless
it be governed by well digested regulations. Where

28 STABLE PRACTICE.

there are so many youthful tempers to be dealt with,
as there must necessarily be where a number oi
boys are employed, as is the case in racing stables,
a steady eye is necessary to direct them, and lawsi
once established should never be permitted to be
infringed with impunity. Disobedience of any rule
or order once overlooked, will assuredly create dis-
regard and disrespect for others. The necessity foi
severe punishment will be avoided by slight punish-
ment for trivial offences, if there be a thorough
understanding that the amount of punishment will,
on all occasions, be commensurate with the degree
of misconduct. There is no class of servants im
whom obedience is of greater importance, than those
who are employed in the care of race-horses ; andi
when it is remembered that the giddy mind of youth
may frustrate the hopes of years, and destroy the
chance of gaining thousands, by one act of dis-
obedience, it cannot be necessary to urge another
word on the importance of strict discipline.

The number of boys required to attend to a
certain number of horses, may be decreased in ratio
as the number of horses increases. Paradoxical as*
the assertion appears, it will be clear on explana-
tion. Thus, if there be only three or four horses i
in work, an equal number of boys are required;
but if there be eight or ten horses, five or six]
boys will be sufficient, as it will seldom, if ever, be
necessary to send all the horses out to exercise at
the same time.

In making engagements with boys for this pur-

HEAD LADS AND STABLE-BOYS. 29

oose, it is desirable to select those who are of small
tature. Whether that property descends from their
parents, is not in all cases a matter of certainty,
leither is it possible to determine whether a youngster
it twelve years of age, although diminutive, may
lot rapidly increase during the succeeding six or
tight years, and become a lusty man ; nevertheless,
;he best criterion is the actual growth of the urchin.
Phe respectability of the parents is an important
consideration ; for though it appears hard to visit the
ins of the fathers on the children, yet, unless boys
pave been taught obedience and propriety of conduct,
hey are sure to create much trouble ere they are
Irilled into good behaviour. The usual custom is
to engage novices for a term of years ; and this is
i necessary one, for during the first twelve months
hey are seldom of much use ; and to get well-con-
lucted boys from other training stables, after having
earnt their duties, is not very easy. Owners of
lorses and trainers do not like to part with them ;
n fact, having engaged them upon such conditions,
;hey cannot consistently do so. Of young scamps
here are plenty; but their society is dangerous at
mce to their comrades, and to the horses entrusted
o their care.

\ Rubbing legs, rolling bandages, cleaning bridles
md saddles, carrying water, and such like subor-
linate employments, are the preliminary lessons of
he novice, until by degrees he becomes familiar
vith such operations, and, in course of time, ascends
o higher occupations. The art of horsemanship is

30 STABLE PRACTICE.

an acquirement indispensable in the stable-boy, and
it is one in which there are many degrees of supe-
riority. Some attain it very quickly, — in them it
appears as a gift ; others require much tuition ; and
many never become proficients, with every advan-
tage of the most patient instructors. Now, these
decrees arise from divers causes, which may be
single or collective. The formation of the human
frame is various in its adaptation to equestrian
exercises. The youth with short thighs, with knees
having an unsymmetrical affinity for each other,
can scarcely be expected to accomplish the first
most essential acquirement, a good seat; but he
whose thighs are lengthy, with knees a trifle bowed,
outwards, appears as if nature had. formed him foi
the purpose, the moment he is placed in the saddle
Confidence is a qualification without which neithei j
man or boy can ever ride with effect ; however larg(
and physically powerful the frame may be, if the
individual is timid and nervous, he is a useless in-
cumbrance on the animal he bestrides. The first-
named quality, that is, the formation of the limbs
cannot be controlled ; the latter may be so, to a verjjj
considerable extent, by means of instruction. If ar
unpractised rider be placed on an unsteady horse, ii
is very probable they may quickly dissolve partner-
ship ; and if in doing so, the partner who aspires t(
be at the head of the firm, receive an injury by th(
prostration, he will very probably be 'reluctant ir
again attempting an experiment; and although the
fear of chastisement from a superior, and of derisior

HEAD LADS AND STABLE-BOYS. 31

from his companions, may stimulate the fallen as-
pirant to another essay, it will not be accompanied
with confidence.

The most successful method of giving preliminary
instruction to boys in the art of riding, is very
simple. To begin, I place a saddle on the stand
provided for the purpose of cleaning the stable ap-
pointments upon ; this is done previously to placing
the youngster on the back of a horse. Having
put the boy on the saddle, and adjusted the stirrup
leathers to the right length, he is shown the pro-
per position for his legs, — instructing him to keep
them somewhat forward, with the foot bearing well
down on the stirrup iron, and the toes pointed a
trifle upwards, to avoid the iron pressing on the
instep, by which bad habit a very insecure seat
is contracted. Having given the necessary di-
rections as to seat and upright carriage of the
body, and thoroughly inculcated the propriety of
keeping the shoulders well down in the back, the
position of the hands and arms is the next point.
A single rein is then given to him, and the manner
of using it described. The instructor, standing in
front of the pupil, takes the bit in his hands, holding
it in a position similar to that in which a horse carries
his head when that member is in a good place. The
most minute instructions may thus be given, when
iraising the bit to the height where it would be in the
event of a horse carrying his head very high: the boy
is informed of the intention, and is desired to apply a
iremedy; this he naturally does by lowering his own

32 STABLE PRACTICE.

bands. At the same time he must be ordered to
sit well back in the saddle. The example of a horse
getting his head below its proper bearing, is illus-
trated by a contrary disposition of the bit ; to obviate
which, the hands must be elevated with a sort of
rotatory motion, and the bit simultaneously drawn
across the mouth: this will afford an opportunity of!
cautioning the boy not to allow himself to be pulled
over a horse's shoulders, in case he should attempt
to get his head down, and at the same moment
stretch out his neck with a kind of jerk, which will
pull an inexperienced rider out of his saddle. This
will be a fitting opportunity for illustrating the ad-
vantages attendant upon keeping the shoulders in aj
proper position. If they be shrugged up, not only
will a great portion of power be lost, but the animal
will very probably pull the rider out of his seat.
To prevent this, the feet also require to be placed
more forward than usual ; sitting well down in the
saddle, by putting the hands down on each sidei
of the withers, the intentions of horses so disposed
are frustrated. The advantages of these preliminary !
lessons are very clear. The novice receives his!
instructions without excitement or fear of being
thrown ; he consequently attends to them. Take,
for example, the illustration of a horse carrying his
head too high. If an inexperienced rider be on such
an animal, his hands are invariably in a parallel line
with the horse's mouth. If the pace be a gallop, in j
all probability the animal breaks away ; but as the
saddle stand is not guilty of such indiscretions, the

HEAD LADS AND STABLE-BOYS. 33

pupil is capable of being' instructed at a time when
his thoughts are undisturbed, and his movements
under calm control; thus, an important point is
gained towards inculcating confidence. This quality
successfully introduced, the physical accomplish-
ments follow in succession. The power of a horse-
man is most intimately connected with confidence,
practice, seat, and hands ; if these four requisites
are combined, although the individual possessing
them may be of small stature and light weight, they
will render him far more capable of managing a de-
termined horse, than one of considerably greater
bulk, in whom any one of them is deficient. The
great importance of a firm, secure, and steady seat,
must not be overlooked ; it may be termed the
basis of good horsemanship, and boys should be
taught to support themselves entirely by it, without
any recourse to the bridle; by that means, in course
of time, they may acquire good hands, but without
it they never will. When riding up a gallop, it is
too frequently the case that boys, as well as more
matured riders, depend much on their hands, or
more properly their arms, to keep them steady, and
by thus hanging at their horses' heads, dead, in-
sensible mouths are formed. So much depends upon
the place in which a horse carries his head as to the
position of the hands, that considerable practice is
requisite to attain this important accomplishment in
the art of riding. With a nice steady smooth-2;oing
horse, the hands should be laid one on each side of
the upper part of the shoulder just below the

D

34 STABLE PRACTICE.

withers, from whence they need scarcely be moved,
unless to regulate the pace or to make a turn. In
any case they should be kept as still as possible.
The flexibility arising from the wrist should be stu-
diously preserved by the position of the hand : as by
this the delicacy of touch can only be produced.
For this purpose, the thumbs are to be kept up-
wards, and pointing in a direct line to each other,
so that the knuckles of the hand stand forward : this
causes the wrists to be slightly bent, and by that
means the lightness or flexibility is preserved. But
if the hands are held with the knuckles upwards,
and the little finger outwards, with a straight wrist,
the only elasticity that can be afforded is from the
elbow ; and in these circumstances the hand cannot
regulate or cultivate a lively delicate mouth so
thoroughly dependent upon the person whose duty
it is to ride the animal at his daily exercise.

Unfortunately for boys, and I may add for the
horses which they ride, very little pains is taken, in
a general way, to teach them the art of riding. They
are left very much to themselves to learn how they
can, by imitating their elders ; hence, if the latter
have acquired bad habits, the juveniles will, most
probably, fall into similar errors. If a boy rides
very badly, the trainer most probably tells him so,
probably chastises him ; but, in telling him of his
fault, he does not always explain the way by which the
error is to be counteracted. In large establishments,
where there are a great many horses in work, the
trainer has too many other things to engross his

HEAD LADS AND STABLE-BOYS. 3o

attention, to permit him to devote his time, as riding
master, to every inexperienced boy in his employ-
ment ; but it is a duty in those cases which should
be attended to by the head lad, or some other com-
petent individual.

The mischievous tricks which boys are prone to
play upon the horses under their care — plaguing and
tormenting them — require constant attention; and
whenever a case of the kind is discovered, the of-
fender should be punished, not only to deter him
from repeating his misconduct, but as an example to
his companions. Some boys commit these faults
from ignorance, others from thorough badness of dis-
position ; but, whatever may be the motive, the re-
sults are similar. The dangerous custom of striking
horses on their legs with the side of the brush, or
other hard substance, when they do not stand quietly
or conveniently, is to be guarded against. When-
ever a horse's legs are observed to fill, or show
symptoms of blows, the cause should be carefully
ascertained. The silly, absurd, and dangerous pro-
pensity of lashing out with one hind leg, — a habit
which many horses acquire, — is usually the result
of provocation by the boys tickling them on the in-
side of the thigh. Whenever a horse performs these
pranks, the best way to cure him is to punish the
boy who looks after him.

i> 2

36 STABLE PRACTICE.

CHAP. V.

HUNTING-GROOMS AND HELPERS.

Comparative Duties of Trainers and Hunting-Grooms. — Gradations.

Gentlemen Grooms. — Single-handed Grooms. — Occasional

Assistance. — Inexperienced Servants. — Anecdote of a Gentleman
Groom. — The Use of Drugs restricted. — A Veterinary Education
for Hunting-Grooms deprecated. — Helpers and their Duties. —
Covert Lads. — Second Horse Lads.

Compared with those of trainers,, the duties of
hunting-grooms are light and easy. The former
must necessarily have a vast weight of responsibility
on their shoulders, not only as regards the value of
the animals under their care, but also the large sums
of money frequently dependent on their success.
The last are events from which hunting-grooms
are totally free, unless they may be employed in
preparing horses for steeple-chasing, in which case
their positions are very similar.

Whoever keeps a large stud of valuable hunters
must necessarily employ a competent person to su-
perintend them ; and when, descending in the scale,
we consider the requirements of those who are under
the necessity of limiting their desires to one or two
horses, the dignified title of hunting-groom appears
inapplicable to the functionaries who have the care

HUNTING-GROOMS AND HELPERS. 37

of them. At the same time, there are many degrees
in this class of servants ; from those whose duty it is
only to superintend the stable department, to those
who take a share in the work, and others who do the
whole. The first can only be necessary when the
stud is very numerous and valuable. For my own
part, I have a great objection to gentlemen grooms ;
and for this, if for no other, reason, that they have
not sufficient employment to occupy their time. Many
hunting men, who only keep three or four horses, are
burdened with these superfluities, but I do not find
their horses are in better condition than those of others
who require their head groom to perform his share of
the labour. It generally happens, that a man whose
means only permit him to keep a couple of hunters,
takes some pleasure in superintending the manage-
ment of them himself, and one servant is of course
sufficient to do the work ; but there is more difficulty
in meeting with one for this purpose, who is in every
respect calculated for it, than there is in selecting
any other kind of domestic servant. Many of those
who are really competent, generally aspire to what
they consider higher employment; they want a
menial under them, — in fact, do not like to work
single-handed. In this they are to a certain extent
correct, if their motive be to do justice to the horse ;
because when a hunter returns home after his day's
work, two persons ought to be in attendance to dress
him with the expedition so essential on those occa-
sions. At such times a boy, a gardener, or any super-

D 3

38 STABLE PRACTICE.

A

numerary, who is at other times differently em-
ployed, may be brought into the stable with ad-
vantage. A rough unsophisticated rustic is one of
the greatest torments that can be introduced into a
stable. He must be constantly looked after, other-*
wise he leaves the sweat on the horse's ears, or
between his legs, or the saddle stains are not got out,
the legs and feet are carelessly washed, besides ne-
glecting many other little items essential to the
comfort of the horse ; and then when he brings the
nag out for his master to ride, some of the appoint-
ments are imperfectly cleaned, — an event which
usually happens when time will not permit of his
being sent back to reclean them; in short, their
habits are such that they cannot comprehend the
necessity for that nicety which is inseparable from
the requirements of the horse, if he is to be fit in
condition and appearance to carry a gentleman.

Whenever I happen to meet with one of the order
of gentlemen grooms, it forcibly reminds me of a
circumstance which occurred some years since. A
friend of mine who had been hunting in Northamp-
tonshire, attended the Warwick Spring Meeting en
route homewards, with his horses in attendance ; and
although his stud only consisted of six, they were
first-rate hunters. While sojourning at Leamington
he took a mutual acquaintance, an excellent judge,
into the stable, and asked his opinion relative to the
treatment which would be most beneficial for the
cure of certain injuries which some of the horses had

HUNTING-GROOMS AND HELPERS. 39

sustained ; and which opinion was frankly and judi-
ciously given. This, however, did not please the
scrupulous jealousy of so important a personage as
the master of the horse, who replied to observations
made by our friend in very laconic, disrespectful,
terms ; whereupon, the master of the horses thought
fit to remonstrate with his servant, at the same time
telling him j that he expected every gentleman whom
he brought into the stable to be treated with civility.
The reply was, " When a gentleman comes into my
stable and behaves as sich, I treats him as one : but
when he comes in as a groom to give his opinions, I
treats him as a groom." This impertinence led to
his discharge ; and in less than two years from
that time, I saw him in Tattersalls' yard in a state of
great poverty. He was too idle to work, and, having
lost his character, could not obtain a situation similar
to the one which he had so ridiculously lost.

Unless a groom is thoroughly competent, it is a
dangerous practice to allow him to give any kind
of medicine without his master's knowledge : this, of
course, only applies to those cases where the pro-
prietor takes an interest in the management of his
stable, and consequently directs the details himself.
The owner of a large stud, who is in all probability
engaged in other pursuits, must necessarily confide
such matters to his groom. It is therefore important
to him that he employs a servant capable of directing
such minutiae. But those who enjoy the means of
keeping large establishments are few in number

D 4

40 STABLE PRACTICE.

compared with those who are obliged to content
themselves with two or three, perchance only one
hunter. The kind of groom whom the latter engages
is seldom sufficiently experienced to give medicine
ad libitum. In such hands the veterinary art is a
very dangerous plaything. The incongruous mix-
tures which persons unacquainted with chemistry
will frequently combine together, are calculated to
produce very serious consequences ; and as there is
a certain class of stable servants, who conceive by
giving alteratives, cordials, fever-balls, and such like
inconsistencies mixed together for the purpose, as
they imagine, of making the horses look well with
less trouble to themselves, the safer plan is, to lay
an injunction against the use of any medicine without
a proper sanction. It sometimes happens, that hunt-
ing-giooms who aspire to the management of large
studs, consider it a great recommendation to have
passed their examination at the Veterinary College ;
but with this opinion I am not prepared to agree. A
really clever man will be certain to succeed by the
practice of the profession. A dunce will derive no
useful knowledge by attending the College, but will
most probably get his brains conglomerated with
technical terms which he does not comprehend ; and,
like one of these geniuses with whom I was in con-
versation a short time since, recommend the use of
Peter Oleum (petroleum he meant) for thrushes ;
and although, as it happened, the remedy was proper
for the occasion, it would have been better if he
had stuck to the comprehensive word, " tar." The

HUNTING-GEOOMS AND HELPERS. 41

practice, although the stud may be large as a private
one, is never sufficiently extensive to maintain, much
less to mature, a college education, unless a variety
of unnecessary operations are performed to keep
the practitioner's hand in, — proceedings which few
owners of extensive and valuable studs are at all
disposed to encourage.

The next order of servants required in hunting-
stables, are helpers, whose duties are simply to dress
the horses of which they have the care, take them
out to exercise, and clean the appointments. Three
horses are generally assigned to each man, with
which he is certainly fully employed if he does his
duty. Men who are afraid of labour should never
be engaged in such services. They must frequently
be at work by five o'clock in the morning ; indeed,
in many hunting establishments, that is the regular
hour during the season. But as no hounds ever
meet before half-past ten, it appears rather unne-
cessary, in a general way, to disturb the horses so
early, unless they have a great distance to go to covert.
Nevertheless, helpers must not be scrupulous about
their time ; they must work early and late if required ;
and that being the case, their wages are generally
liberal. A steady lad, whose services are required
to take the hunters to covert, is almost essential,
unless the head groom performs that duty ; to which
there are objections, inasmuch as during his ab-
sence the horses must necessarily be left to the
discretion of persons not always to be depended
upon. It is better that he should remain at home

42 STABLE PRACTICE.

and attend to the dressing, feeding, and stable
duties required by those horses which are not at
work, than to delegate those trusts to any other
person. Good second horse lads are not very nume-
rous; they require many qualifications. Superior
horsemanship is indispensable, combined with great
steadiness and discretion ; otherwise, the horses which
they ride will not be fresher than those which have
been ridden with the hounds. Knowledge of country
is likewise a very important consideration; for although
most of the second horses usually take the same line
with an experienced leader -as a guide, if by any
chance the pilot is lost sight of, those who are unac-
quainted with the country will often be much at a
loss what course to steer. For this service men of
light weight are far preferable to boys, although
their wages may be higher.

43
CHAP. VI.

BREAKING.

Effects of: Education. — A Comparison.— Progressive Tuition of

Race-horses.— Young Hunters.— Reference to the " Stud Farm."

— Good Horsemen essential on young Horses.— Alarm to be
avoided with young Race-horses when at Exercise. — Pace
proportioned to the Advancement in Condition. — Importance
of a good Mouth. — Improvement of Action. — Effected by
appropriate Bridles judiciously handled. — One-sided Mouths.—
Disadvantages which ensue.— Remedies— Teaching norses to
leap. — May be done without Hounds.— Confidence necessary to
make good Fencers. — Falls to be avoided. — Leading over a Bar
or Fence. — Impropriety of Hurry or Confusion. — Riding at
Fences. — Horses ought not to be taken repeatedly over the same
Fence. — Accomplished Hunters from Stables of eminent Dealers.
—Distinct Characters of Riders to Hounds.— Difficulty in procur-
ing first-rate Hacks. — Reason why they are found in the Stables of
the Affluent. — Time requisite to cultivate Perfections.— Temper. —
Proper Age to endure Work. —Ladies' Horses, and the Accomplish-
ments requisite in Hacks.— Shying. — Alternatives. —Objects
which Horses encounter in Town9. — Starting. — Young Horses
should be accustomed to various Objects. — Harness Horses. —
Breaking to Harness.— Putting Horses to Carriages. — A precau-
tionary Method and its Advantages.— Reasons why some Horses
are refractory. — The Duties of an Assistant.— Carts deprecated.

— Vicious Horses. —Effects of mild Treatment illustrated. — On
Bridles. — Mouths. — Hands. — Severe Bits, Objections to.—
Snaffles. — Pelhams. —Curb Bits. — Nose-bands. — Choice of Bits.

— Bridles for Pleasure Horses. — A Change recommended.—
Exercise Bridles.

Mankind are strongly marked by education, and
every individual carries the stamp of the place of his
instruction upon him through life. The bearing of

44 STABLE PRACTICE.

an Etonian is readily distinguished from the com-
paratively rude manners of the youth who receives
his instructions at an ordinary school. A similar
distinction is discernible in the education of the
horse : one that has received the finishing polish of
tuition from an experienced and accomplished rider,
is an infinitely more agreeable servant and companion
than a rough animal from the hands of a provincial
colt breaker, or the usually unsophisticated guidance
of a hard-riding farmer. The trainer can seldom
expect to have colts placed under his care, which do
not require some tutelage under his hands ; if they
have been sufficiently broken as to ride quietly, that
is all he can expect. To follow other horses up
gallops, and perform the requisite accomplishments
during the successive courses of preparation, will, in
most instances, come under the supervision of the
trainer; and, indeed, on many occasions he will
have to direct the entire breaking or tuition of
young stock entrusted to his care. Those who
follow hounds are frequently in a similar position :
whether the duty is undertaken by the master, or
devolves upon the groom, it is a task of greater
difficulty than that which falls to the lot of the
trainer ; because there are so many more accom-
plishments required in the experienced hunter than
the race horse. In fact, the lessons which the latter
goes through daily when at exercise, nearly qualify
him for his duties on the course.

In the pages of the " Stud Farm" I have noticed
the degrees of tuition to which young horses ought

BREAKING. 45

;o be subjected, so long as they may be considered
is inmates of the breeding establishment. It now
oecomes necessary to add some additional remarks
applicable to race-horses, hunters, and carriage
horses, when they arrive at a more advanced stage
(luring the course of preparation for "actual service."
Concluding a colt to be so far advanced in his
education that he will ride quietly, the next process
s to teach him to canter; and in the first probations
It is far more rational to put up a man of tolerably
light weight, or boy of moderate proportions with
power and experience, who can ride well, than in-
capable urchins with whom it is a matter of great
chance if the colt does not contract some bad habit,
which will not easily be corrected. It is to be re-
membered, at this stage of training, the colt is not
required to go at a fast pace; it would not be
proper, either as regards his education, or his con-
dition. To promote these intentions, a steady horse
of more mature age is requisite to lead the work.
On all occasions it is a consideration of moment to
avoid alarming a horse ; and although this applies to
every hour of his life, it is of greater consequence
with young than with aged horses ; that is to say,
young ones will be alarmed at trifling objects, which
at a future age they would not notice. Exercise
grounds will frequently be in such order, that the
preceding horse will throw the dirt upon the one
which follows : with young ones this should be care-
fully prevented, by keeping at such a distance as to
escape the disagreeable salutation. It will be time

46 STABLE PRACTICE.

enough to lay up and accustom the young animal to
this unpleasantness, as he becomes more and^ more
advanced in his preparation and has gained con-
fidence, at which period it is highly advisable hei
should be occasionally accustomed to the uncere-
monious proceeding, that it may not be new to him
on being brought to the post to run, when he wil]
at times be subject to the annoyance.

As the first preparation advances, an increase o\\
pace will be occasionally necessary: but this must!
be adopted with discretion,, for there can be nci
doubt that more young animals are ruined by in-j
judiciously hurrying them in their work, both witl
reference to breaking, and the endeavour to promote j
their condition, than by any other single circum- \
stance. Improvement, in whatever way it is courted j
must be acquired by slow degrees ; and whoevei I
attempts to assail the handiworks of nature, bj
violent or precipitate measures, is certain to be
foiled in the attempt.

At this stage in the operation of breaking, it isi
presumed that the ordeal of lounging has been com- j
pleted ; when the condition of the mouth become:
an object of paramount attention. The control
which we acquire over the horse depends upon the I
mouth, and likewise a vast proportion of the agree- j
able or disagreeable associations which render exer-
cise on horseback pleasant or toilsome. A good
mouth is the medium by which any improvement in
the natural carriage of an animal is to be accom-
plished. When going at a slow pace, the way in

BREAKING. 47

vhich a horse carries himself may, to a very con-
iderable extent, be controlled ; but when at speed,
)r even when nearly approximating that pace, his
inrestrained action must prevail. By habit in the
>low paces, improvement in the faster ones may be
'lightly obtained ; but that must be brought about
>y very moderate attempts, otherwise the action of
:he animal, far from being corrected, will inevitably
)e rendered worse. A horse that bends himself
licely, is, undoubtedly, more pleasant to ride than
)ne which runs with his nose down to his knees ; or
:he reverse, with his head in rivalry with that of his
•ider ; and such defects are, in most cases, capable
)f correction if properly treated in juvenile days ;
)ut too much constraint is adverse to pace, both for
•acing and hunting. When a horse carries his head
too high, it may, in many instances, be remedied by
ising a curb bit without any port, but with rather
\ong cheeks, and the curb chain hung quite loose.
Accompanied with good hands, this often produces
in excellent effect, especially with young horses,
ivhich are disposed to contend against the control of
i martingale. It may appear as a contradiction ;
out when a horse carries his head too low, a curb
bridle will often be found the best remedy ; and the
contradiction is cleared up by the remark, that it is
by the way of adjusting and using the curb, that the
difference of effect is produced. For the latter pur-
pose, a short cheeked bit, when judiciously used,
vvill with many subjects be found effectual ; and, in
order to render it so, the hands must be raised higher

48 STABLE PRACTICE.

than usual at the precise instant when the animal
endeavours to drop his head; by this means thd
curb is brought into action, but should be agair
released when the proper position of the head if
obtained. This should be particularly attended to
for such horses are very subject to hang on the bit
— an imperfection likely to increase with age if no
counteracted. Although I so far advocate the us<
of double rein or curb bridles for certain purposes
let me not be misunderstood as recommending then i
for general use, — quite the reverse. A horse with j i
good mouth, carrying his head in the true position
never goes so freely and pleasantly to himself, a
with a snaffle bridle; but it is to teach the hors< i
how to carry himself, that the curb is in many case
of great utility.

Colts that have been carelessly treated frequentl;
acquire a habit of getting the snaffle on one side o
their mouths ; thus they become less sensitive on on
side than the other, and eventually the same in
convenience is discovered when a curb is used
This not only renders them very unpleasant to ride
but in racing frustrates in a great measure th<>
jockey's efforts to make the turns with precision, an(
also in straight running occasions difficulty in keep
ins them in the course. With such defects it is im
possible to make the most of a horse. With hunters
independently of the unpleasantness to their riders
they cannot be ridden so nicely at their fence:
when they possess one-sided mouths; moreover, irj
severe runs with hounds, contention must have th(

BREAKING. 49

effect of producing fatigue, as much as similar pro-
ceedings affect the race-horse. To avoid this pro-
pensity, it is important that due attention should be
observed during the progress of tuition ; for it is
much easier to remedy a defect than to correct a
bad habit. Now it must be obvious to every person
possessing the slightest practice, that constantly
pulling at that side of the horse's mouth which is
the least sensitive, will, in course of time, render it
still worse ; and the most effectual method of cor-
recting this bad habit, is by keeping the bit as even
as possible, when such animals are being ridden, and
frequently to indulge them with the company of the
dumb jockey, to which a straight- mouthed bit is
applied. The trick of taking the cheek of the curb
between the teeth, very frequently arises from the
cause just named, but that can readily be obviated
by means of a chin strap.

On a former occasion we suggested the propriety
of teaching young horses to leap small fences while
under the surveillance of the breaking tackle, but
as in many instances that will have been neglected,
it here becomes necessary to introduce some obser-
vations on the treatment of those whose future em-
ployment is destined to be in the hunting field.
iMuch more can be accomplished in teaching horses
po fence, if properly conducted, without hounds than
(with them. In the first case, there is nothing to
iattract the animal's notice except the performance
which he is called upon to accomplish ; but when
out with hounds, there are constantly new objects to

E

50 STABLE PRACTICE.

occasion excitement: thus high-mettled horses will
frequently contract a habit of rushing wildly at the
fences, and, by so doing, experience many unnecessary
falls. I have often heard, with surprise, good sports-
men express themselves in terms of satisfaction at
their young horses having had falls. I must confess
I would rather mine did so as seldom as possible.
The first step towards making a good hunter is to
establish confidence. Can that be accomplished by
occasioning alarm, often injury, and sometimes pain?
Horses frequently fall from want of confidence in
themselves, and impatience, not always free from
timidity, in their riders. A horse, with a naturally
high spirit, when roused and excited, will often go
up to a fence, and fall from the consequences of
alarm and injudicious treatment — being hurried ; not
knowing where to take off, he probably runs into the
ditch, if it lie on the near side, and comes down a
burster ; or if the squire trap be on the further side,
by taking off too soon, drops into the snare. These
dilemmas may, to a material extent, be avoided
by practice, previously to taking them out with
hounds ; and I imagine there are but few persons
who would not prefer that mode of treatment which
will render a hunter equally accomplished and per-
fect at his business, with the fewest number of falls,
and, consequently, with the least amount of risk.

The first endeavour to teach a horse to leap should
be with a leading rein at a low bar, if such a con-
venience be at hand, or over a low fence that will
not yield ; low walls and stiles, open drains and

BREAKING. 51

ditches, small brooks, — in fact, every description of
fence the country affords should be presented in
succession as the animal evinces ability to perform
the task. "When leading a horse over a fence, the
person having the rein should carefully avoid look-
ing the pupil in the face, — a very prevalent, but
injudicious custom. All animals are abashed at
the stern gaze of a man's eye ; hence when it is
desired to encourage them to follow, a moment's
reflection must dictate the propriety of attending to
this hint. It is also a very mistaken plan to give
any horse a long run at a fence, but particularly
those minor fences chosen for exercise or tuition.
Four or five lengths is quite sufficient. Hurry and
confusion is to be avoided, for it is impossible an
animal can measure his stride, and adapt it to the
proper place for rising or taking off if he be bustled
and alarmed at the moment of making the at-
tempt. After a few lessons with the leading rein,
it becomes necessary for the horse to be ridden over
some fences, and for this purpose a steady horseman
with good hands should be selected. Without en-
tering minutely into the subject of equestrianism,
it may be necessary to make a passing remark on
the very prevalent custom of riding horses at fences
with the reins in one hand, in which case, if the
animal has any inclination to refuse, the rider has
but little power to keep him straight ; whereas, with
the reins divided, any such disposition may be checked,
especially if accompanied by the judicious persuasion
of the spurs. The very unwise application of the
e 2

52 STABLE PRACTICE.

whip, at the moment a horse is about to take his
spring, cannot be too seriously condemned ; that im-
plement raised at such a moment, often causes horses
to swerve, and when once a horse has been struck,
he naturally expects a similar salutation when he
approaches a succeeding fence ; he therefore rushes
wildly at it, and a fall is in all probability the result.
Here it is necessary to introduce a caution, not to
take a horse too often over the same place. Old and
experienced hunters frequently repudiate such en-
gagements. I have often seen very superior animals
ridden repeatedly over the same flight of hurdles, till
at last they would scarcely jump them at all. Such
treatment is calculated to teach careless and bad
habits. When a young horse has' cleared a par-
ticular fence neatly and cleverly once or twice, he
should not be required to try it again ; that should
terminate his lesson, or he should be taken to a fence
of a different character. When weary, horses
become careless, and from that cause it is very in-
judicious to go on with young ones after hounds
when they begin to show the slightest symptoms of
distress. Young horses, and many of those out of
the stables of farmers, will have to undergo these
probationary lessons, unless their owners are content
to rough it when following the hounds. Hunters
from the emporiums of a very few of the first-rate
dealers will not require such drilling, from the simple
cause that they do not attempt to recommend them,
unless they are certain the animals know their
business ; and as they generally employ an artiste of

BREAKING. 53

superior ability to ascertain their qualifications, they
are never very far out in their judgment. In this I
I am alluding only to dealers of the highest repute.

Among first-rate men with hounds, two distinct

characters may be noticed ; those .who will go in

front upon any horse endowed with the faculty of

going, so that they can fence, stay, and go the pace,

I no matter how difficult or disagreeable they may be

! to ride ; the others are men who go well on certain

I kinds of horses, thoroughly made, with good mouths,

fine tempers, and with action suited to their taste

and peculiarity of seat Of the two, the first-named

have much less difficulty in finding horses to suit

them than the latter.

A really good hack is a creature difficult to pro-
cure. Not that there is a great scarcity of the " raw
material," but, unfortunately, it is only the raw
material that can, in many instances, be obtained ;
this arises principally from want of care in breaking.
It is presumptuous in people to suppose, and subjects
them to ridicule when they assert that they can com-
plete the education of a colt as well in three weeks
as in three years ; but there may be some few who do
not appreciate a nicely-trained hack, and it is a great
pity when such an animal happens to get into their
possession. In my juvenile days I was forcibly
struck with the prevailing fact, that hacks, when sold
in consequence of imperative events, out of the studs
of noblemen, and others of wealth, realised such
great prices, while equally good-looking animals at
fairs, or in the possession of persons of less note^

E 3

54 STABLE PEACTICE.

were purchasable at very reduced figures ; but the
cause may be readily explained. Those who have
the means, only purchase such horses as are tho-
roughly educated, or they employ men of experience
to break, and cultivate the accomplishments of the
horses which they either breed or buy. Of course
they only select those of goodly appearance, with
superior action ; and no one need despair of making
them agreeable to ride, if they will unite patience
with discretion. Such animals will always realise a
good price ; but it requires time to render them
perfect. To suppose that a horse can be educated,
so as to carry his rider with comfort and pleasure, in
three weeks, or even three months, is ridiculous. An
animal may be ridden in a very few. days after he is
taken in hand ; but it is not assumed that a gentle-
man will undertake the duties of a rough rider, and
until horses are. quite tractable, handy, and accom-
plished, they are not marketable at high prices.

Good temper is an attribute more frequently the
result of treatment than innate propensities : the
best dispositions may be spoiled by ruffianly usage,
— or the reverse, pusillanimous timidity. High-
couraged horses will become intractable by abuse,
and sluggish ones will turn sulky. It is of some
importance to ascertain the tendency of an animal's
temper, in order to facilitate the progress of tuition.
Some horses appear to possess much more retentive
memories than others, and, when this is the case,
they are in every respect gifted with greater saga-
city, and will, when properly managed, usually be-

BREAKING. 55

come the most docile ; 'but If their memories are
retentive of good deeds, they are equally so of
injuries.

Hacks are not usually selected for active service
until they have attained their fifth year, neither are
they calculated for hard work till that period ; but
if they have not been judiciously treated, they will
very often by that time have contracted many un-
pleasant if not bad habits, which entail more time
and trouble to correct, than would be required to
teach them their duties from the first. To carry a
lady as she ought to be carried, we should be most
scrupulously nice in the selection of the palfrey, and
in the course of his education ; to carry either a lady
or a gentleman it is not necessary to recapitulate the
worn-out, threadbare description of what constitutes
the good qualifications ; it will be sufficient to men-
tion how they are to be fostered. To stand quietly
while being mounted, and to walk well, are neces-
sary accomplishments. As in the different paces
some are faster than others, the slow walker when
in company, in order to keep up, is frequently forced
into a shuffle, — a most unpleasant, and it may
be added ungentlemanly, inelegant kind of action.
The virtue, patience, must be taxed sometimes
pretty considerably to prevent this ; and so long as
the tuition of the animal is in progress, it is far more
advisable to allow a companion to walk away, if his
rider have not the consideration and politeness to
restrain his nag, than to allow a young horse to
habituate himself to such an objectionable pace.

E 4

56 STABLE PRACTICE.

When a horse is required to accelerate his speed
from the walk to the trot or canter, the indications
should be distinct, and thoroughly inculcated ; for it
does not add to a horseman's gracefulness if, when
he proposes to put his horse in a canter, the brute
runs off in a trot, which many will do, from want of
proper teaching.

The habit of shying — for it ought not to be
termed a vice in the way of passing censure on the
equine race — generally arises from improper and
unkind treatment. No horse ever contracts this
fault from any cause but fear in the first instance,
and that fear may be produced by a variety of
causes ; but what is the course too frequently
adopted to allay that fear ? — chastisement. A train
on a railway, a gipsy's encampment, clothes hanging
on a hedge, wheelbarrows, carts drawn by dogs,
stones and timber by the wayside, carriages of divers
descriptions stationary and in motion, and many
other objects with which the list may be increased,
are monstrosities which a young horse may never
have seen before. His instinct dictates that they
may be productive of pain or danger. In the hands
of a ruffian the first impulse is verified: roughly
handling the reins, he drives his spurs into the sides
of the poor frightened victim, and forces him past
the object, and not unfrequently beats him after-
wards— on every similar occasion the like treatment
is observed. Fear having been excited, it matters
not whether the object of alarm inflicts pain, or
whether it is the thoughtless rider, the same effect

BREAKING. 57

is produced; die animal has anticipated an injury,
and the anticipation is realised. But instead of this,
if, on evincing symptoms of alarm, the young creature
is very quietly and patiently coaxed to within a
short distance of the strange phenomenon, he soon
finds that nothing causes him pain, and in a short
time ceases to notice any objects that may present
themselves. Starting at strange sights that un-
3xpectedly and abruptly offer themselves to view
are very similar in their consequences, and call forth
jthe same sort of kind usage. Horses that have
never been accustomed to see anything but what
they meet with on country roads are naturally shy
imd timid when they encounter the confusion in
:he streets of London and other large cities, where
omnibuses and such like gigantic machines come
oouring along the streets in a continuous stream : by
kind treatment they very soon become accustomed
:o such sights, and it is astonishing how soon they
oecome reconciled to them.

Young horses should be accustomed in their tute-
age to all sorts of objects. If intended for the turf,
;;hey should be ridden or led on to race-courses,
vhere they may see and hear what on a future day
hey must encounter: if this be neglected, when
hey are required to run for, perhaps, a valuable
stake, they may probably become so greatly alarmed
is to sustain defeat. They should also be taken to
)laces where they will meet carriages and vehicles of
ill kinds, and if taken to the covert side occasionally
;hey will be better accustomed to varieties. Hunters,

58 STABLE PRACTICE.

and all other classes of horses should be taken when
young to those places where they will meet writh
divers strange novelties.

There are very few horses that cannot be made to
go in harness, and that safely, when driven by person?
of experience ; but a more dangerous animal cannot
exist, than one which has not been thoroughly
broken, or is in any way uncertain, in the hands of a
novice.

The routine of breaking for harness, if property
conducted, is so efficacious that few disappointments
arise, unless a horse has been rendered vicious by ill
treatment, or alarmed by an accident. To gcj
through every event that may happen, and snggesi
a remedy for each in order, to reclaim badly managec
or frightened animals is unnecessary. No persoi
would, if endowed with moderate prudence, attemp
to drive such horses unless thoroughly skilled irj
these matters, and to them it is unnecessary to offei
advice.

Every horse intended for harness work, it is to hi
presumed, has already gone through the ordinar} <
forms of breaking, has a good mouth, is tractable
and has been ridden. Before a horse is attached t(
any vehicle, the harness should be allowed to remair
on him in the stable several hours during two oi
three consecutive days; he should be led out, sc
that he may become thoroughly accustomed to the
trappings, and a cord six or seven feet in iengtt
should be fastened to each trace. With this the;
horse is quietly led about, one man performing thai

BREAKING. 59

duty while another follows holding the aforesaid
cords, which as the animal moves forward are to
be strained, so that he feels a slight pressure of
the collar on his shoulders. The intention of this
treatment must be obvious ; if the horse is alarmed
by the effect of the collar, the man holding the
cords which are affixed to the traces can instantly
relax them ; and again, when he finds his pupil is
reconciled, he may renew a moderate strain, and
finally as much resistance as he has the power to
create. By this means the most timid horses will
gain confidence, and by perseverance the most re-
fractory may be overcome. A horse when first en-
cumbered with harness, if immediately attached to a
vehicle, is astonished when required to move, at find-
ing a pressure on his shoulders which he has never
previously experienced. He discovers other novel
apparatus of confinement ; he is, in fact, trammelled
and endeavours to escape; probably he plunges,
kicks, or rears, and becomes difficult to manage ; but
by the simple process just recommended, all that is
obviated ; and wThen he is found to be reconciled to
that kind of exercise, he may be put to a carriage
without risk ; and it is quite immaterial whether it
be a single or a double break, provided it be light
of draught. When putting to, great care should be
observed not to run the shafts, pole, or bars, against
the animal's sides or quarters; it should be done
with the most perfect quietness, yet promptness.
During the first two or three essays an assistant is
necessary, and it is highly important that he and

60 STABLE PRACTICE.

the driver or breaksman perfectly understand each
other, and the signal of the latter should be the only
medium of giving directions. An expert assistant
is of value ; it is his business to keep the horse in the
road, in case he will not answer to the bit, and also
to reconcile and encourage the animal when such
treatment is seen to be necessary. The custom of i
putting beginners to heavy jumbling carts is more
calculated to make them restive than promote the (
object of tuition. The weight is improper, and in i
their cases all unnecessary noise should be avoided.
The rattle of wheels over new laid broken stones 01 j
gravel will occasion alarm to many horses, till they
become accustomed to them. A little patience only ,
is necessary, and all these trifling difficulties and
dangers will be overcome.

The subjugation of vicious horses is an experimeni
which can scarcely be recommended ; they may b(
ridden or driven by persons gifted with nerve
temper, and experience, but with all others they ani
dangerous. With an unpractised individual, some-
thing may occur to excite a badly-disposed creatur*
to a renewal of his malicious propensities ; hence thej
require constant watching and precautions to guarc
against their tricks. In justice to the equine tribe..
it must be observed, that there are very few natu-
rally vicious, though many are rendered dangerous
by ill treatment or bad management. I have had
two that were pronounced incorrigible, and, as ]
found means to render them otherwise, it may not be
out of place to relate the measures which rendered

BREAKING. 61

;hem tractable. The first was a most determined
acker in harness, and as that was the only service
|ie was calculated for, I set about to correct his vice.
This I did by attaching him to a very strong but
light roller, such as is commonly used for rolling
barley ; and by means of kicking-straps, and such
|ike devices, prevented his getting his legs over the
[hafts. A powerful, steady horse was put before
him. The scene of action selected, a fallow field.
In this he was kept moving from an early hour in the
Inorning till dark. He kicked the roller repeatedly,
but it hurt his legs, and, in the course of time, he
bund he got the worst of it, and left off. I then
!)ut him to a gig, but he showed no desire to kick,
md I drove him more than twelve months, during
which time he never attempted to renew his former
Conduct. Afterwards I sold him at a remunerative
brice. The other horse would rear on being put to,
md, if persevered with, fell backwards. By adopting
he plan already advocated, of fastening a cord to
:;ach trace, with a little patience he gained sufficient
jonfidence to go up to his collar. Having succeeded
n teaching him to bear the pressure on his shoulders,
L put him to a gig, with which he was not disposed
o move. With an assistant on each side on foot
ready in case of necessity, I sat in the gig a con-
iderable time ; at length he proceeded a step or two,
^nd again stopped ; for this he was encouraged, not
vhipped ; for an act of that kind would have defeated
Iny intentions. After a further lapse of time he went
>n a few steps further, for which he was amply

62 STABLE PRACTICE.

fondled ; and lie was kept in the middle of the road
by the men gently guiding the shafts. Eventually
he walked away as quietly as possible ; and without
attempting to urge him to a faster pace, I kept him
at that about an hour. On the following day I re-
newed the same plan, and never afterwards expe-
rienced the least difficulty with him.

So much of the comfort, both of the rider and the
horse, depends upon the bridle made use of, that nc
person having regard to his own ease and that of the j
animal will pass over it lightly. The very great '
difference which exists in the mouths of horses, the
various positions in which their heads are placed, the t
formation of their shoulders, their action, and dis- \
positions, ail tend to augment the varieties of bridles
which are called in aid to accomplish the desirec
object. The hands of different riders also vary
and if the equine race had the gift of comparing anc
making known the result, I think we should learn
that they experience as much difference as we car
distinguish in the style of men's autographs. It is
therefore necessary to select bridles suitable to hors( I
and rider ; and from these causes it is not astonishing j
that such a diversity has been invented. To enu- ;
merate and describe them all would be a difficuli
task. But as many of them are only conspicuous foi(
their absurdity, I will content myself with noticing
those which are best calculated for the purpose, re-
marking, as a general principle, that any which have
the effect of keeping the mouth in a sensitive state
without severity, are the best ; and that any kind o:

BREAKING, 63

it having a fixed position, must be objectionable, be-
ause it occasions a deadening of the part to which it
5 so fixed. For a horse with a light mouth, having his
ead naturally in a good place, with good shoulders,
nd nice action, the plain snaffle bridle; the thickness
f which is proportioned to the size and breeding of

E' e animal, is doubtless entitled to take precedence
all others ; and those made with a ring in the
lentre may be mentioned as the most easy. Various
Agrees of twist will increase the severity, if the
llain snaffle is not sufficient. Those which are
Straight from the joint to the rings are still sharper
ban such as are formed with a curve, which latter
s the general shape. Such as are made with two
tiouth-pieces and two joints of unequal length cannot
le too strongly condemned.

j A snaffle without a joint, that is, a straight piece
jf metal suspended by a ring on each side, to which
fie head-piece is attached, and with two rings, inde-
endent of those to receive the reins, if made suffl-
iently wide, is an excellent device for some horses,
t has a more powerful effect than the ordinary snaffle,
nd may be recommended for horses that are too
-ritable in their tempers to submit to a curb.
. In the " Stud Farm" I have already intimated
ome of the objections to which the Pelham bit,
aving a joint in the mouth-piece, is subject ; and I
rill now add some others. This bit may be de-
cribed as a snaffle, wTith the lower portion of the
lieek longer from the mouth-piece than the upper,
^o the lower end is attached a rinsr to receive the

64 STABLE PRACTICE.

reins; to the upper part, which is formed into an
eye, the curb chain is attached, also the head-piece.
When the reins are pulled, the width of the bit is
contracted like a snaffle, consequently the curb has
little or no effect ; unless it be exceedingly short, in
which case it maintains the bit in its contracted
form. In the former case, it has the effect of causing
horses to lean or hang on the bit ; in the latter, it
deadens the mouth from the fixed position in which
it is kept by the curb chain. Some Pelhams arei
made without any joint in the mouth-piece, which is
either straight or has a port. These are less ob-
jectionable than the first named ; they operate like a
curb, and, although there is a snaffle rein fastened to
rings parallel with the mouth-piece, the width from
cheek to cheek cannot be made sufficient to allow
of a change of position ; it does not act satisfactorily.
and thus the sensitive condition of the mouth is
impaired.

The curb bit when required should be apportioned
in its dimensions to the size of the animal, his style
of going, and the amount of power necessary to hold
him. This being, in point of fact, a lever, its effi-
cacy depends upon the length of that portion ofi
the cheek from the mouth-piece to the eye whereon
the head-piece is fixed, compared with the lower
branch which receives the reins. Thus, the shorter
the upper part the greater the leverage. A high
port likewise adds to the severity of the bit. As
an adjunct, a noseband is in many cases a very
useful companion to the bridle, especially for hun-

BREAKING. 65

ters and hacks, many of which by opening their
jaws, and at the same time extending their heads,
relieve themselves from the principal power of what-
ever bridle may be made use of. A noseband buckled
sufficiently tight prevents this; at the same time,
unless placed unreasonably low, so as to press upon
the cartilaginous portion of the nostrils, it cannot
have the effect of interrupting respiration. The
ordinary noseband is simply a strap sufficiently long
to pass round the jaws, and is suspended either to
the head-piece of the bridle, or by an independent
arrangement, which latter is preferable. The ad-
vantages derived from this apparatus, have led to
the invention of varieties, which are unquestionably
adapted for certain horses; and one which, in my
opinion, is of great utility, is made by Mr. Heavens,
of South Molton Street. All these auxiliaries re-
quire hands, and some discrimination in adjusting
them, otherwise they are ineffective ; and such
things are often condemned as useless, because they
are not properly brought into action.

There are two essential objects to be consulted in
selecting bits for race-horses and hunters, — those in
which they will go most pleasantly, and, at the same
time, by which the greatest amount of their physical
powers can be obtained. If a bridle be put upon a
race-horse not sufficiently efficacious to enable the
jockey to hold him, the animal's powers are evidently
expended by an excess of pace. Again, if the bits
made use of are too severe, and the horse will not
face them, it causes him to go high and short in his

F

66 STABLE PRACTICE.

stride, — as it is technically expressed, he "fights in
his action ; " and the powers of endurance are ex-
hausted from that cause. Similar considerations
apply to hunters, — with this distinction; that more
regard may be observed to the bridles in which they
ride most agreeably, than those which are only cal-
culated to call forth their utmost powers ; because,
in a race, a jockey will willingly submit to some
personal inconvenience to make the best use of his
horse, which few persons would carry to an extreme
in the hunting field.

The bridles which will be preferred for pleasure
horses, whether under the saddle or in harness, will,
doubtless, be those most conducive to a perfect com-
mand. It is desirable to try a variety of bridles on
horses, not merely for the purpose of discovering
which is most suitable, but a change has a good
effect. The casuist may exclaim against this, and
say, if you have found out the bridle in wdiich your
horse goes well, keep to that ; but such an argument,
however good it may be in theory, is not so in
practice. A change refreshes the animal's mouth ;
in other words, a different bridle bearing upon a
different part of the mouth, is a relief to the animal ;
and, even if he does not go quite so well in it, —
presuming that it is not calculated to produce any
permanent bad habit, — it is desirable to use the
change for a short period, and, upon returning to the
favourite bridle, the horse will very probably go
better in it than he had done previously.

For the purpose of exercise, snaffle bridles are

BREAKING. 67

generally in use. Intrusted to the majority of
grooms or helpers, any other kind of bit would be
quite out of character. With hands as heavy as a
blacksmith's anvil, they would spoil the mouths of
the best tempered creatures in the world, if they
were to use anything else. The bits with which the
late Lord George Bentinck was accustomed to ride,
would be destructive to the mouths and tempers of
most horses, unless guided by a gentle touch ; and
in a general way, as servants are not ordered to go
when at exercise faster than a walk or trot of some
six or seven miles in the hour, a snaffle bridle answers
that purpose. When hunters require faster work,
which they do prior to the commencement of the
hunting season, a sportsman who studies his future
comfort and satisfaction, will prefer riding such
horses himself as are at all difficult to manage,
unless he has a competent groom, rather than allow
a mutton-fisted lout to render a really good animal
very unmanageable. Race-horses requiring curbs,
are generally ridden by boys who have had some
practice, and are, therefore, capable of using such
tackle; moreover, they are generally better horsemen
than those who are employed in hunting stables, as
strappers.

68 STABLE PRACTICE.

CHAP. VII.

STABLE DISCIPLINE.

Comments. — System. — Importance of minor Observances. — Ap-
plicable alike in Racing and Hunting Stables. — Advantages of
Regularity. — Time of commencing Stable-work. — Routine Duties.
— Preparing for Exercise. — Going to Exercise. — Dressing
after Exercise. — Feeding. — Afternoon Performances. — Washing
Hunters. — Two Helpers employed. — Quietude.

If the management of horses is not acknowledged to
be a science, at all events it is capable of being re-
duced to a system. In no occupation can it be more
necessary to lay down certain rules, and scrupulously
to attend to them, than in the direction of racing or
hunting establishments. However convenient the
construction of the buildings may be, however good
the horses may be which are the occupants of those
buildings, their powers can never be thoroughly de-
veloped without the strictest attention to their wants,
their propensities, and their constitutions.

The great importance connected with the internal
management of the stable, especially the operation
of dressing the horses, must be my apology for en-
tering here very minutely into details; and as the
observances in racing stables, with very few excep-
tions, resemble those of hunting establishments, it
is unnecessary to introduce many distinctions. Two

STABLE DISCIPLINE. 69

important objects are accomplished by punctilious
observance of these minor events, — the comfort of
the animals, and the facility afforded of ascertaining
if any operation has been neglected. No boy or
helper can tell the precise moment when his superior
will enter the stable ; and as it is impossible for a
trainer, hunting groom, or other superintendent, to
be present and see each horse dressed, by strict ob-
servance of regularity, that is, of insisting that every
act is performed in due rotation, there can be no
difficulty in detecting any negligence or omission.

During the spring, the autumn, and the winter,
six o'clock in the morning is the regular hour for
commencing operations. When very hot weather
prevails in summer, an earlier time may be advisable
for the sake of getting race-horses through their
work while the atmosphere is cool; and in this variable
climate, throughout all seasons of the year, the time
of going to exercise must be occasionally controlled
by the elements.

The first duties to be performed when the stable
doors are opened will be, to rack each horse's head
up, throw their respective hoods over their loins,
wash out their mouths with three or four go-downs
of water, and present them each with a feed of corn,
taking care that the mangers are quite clean, and if
any hay be left of the past night's portion, that it be
gathered up and deposited in a conspicuous place to
be seen by the trainer, superintendent, or head lad,
when either may go round to inspect the horses.
The boys then proceed to gather up the dung into

F 3

70 STABLE PRACTICE.

a basket, shake up the litter, and throw it into the
corners of the boxes, carefully selecting and removing
that which is wet and damaged ; the paving is then
swept quite clean, and a thin coat of litter spread
over it. The thighs and hocks of the horses are then
to be brushed over and wisped ; and should there
be any stains, they must be thoroughly eradicated,
and the hair laid smooth with a damp sponge. The
clothing in which they are to take their exercise
must then be put on, the quantity of which will be
regulated by the weather, and the work they are to
perform. If it be mild, and they are to gallop, the
quarter pieces, hoods, and breast clothes are suffi-
cient, unless it may be thought proper to throw
a rug over all, to be removed for the purpose of
galloping in the event of having to encounter cold,
bleak weather. When walking exercise only is to
be exacted, the rugs will be placed under the quarter
pieces, still consulting the weather as a guide. The
saddles being put on, and the girths drawn slack, to
be tightened before leaving the stables, the legs and
feet claim the next attention. Any dirt which may
be lodged between the shoes must be picked out, the
legs well brushed, a damp sponge drawn down them,
and finished with the rubber ; after which the boots
or bandages, if either are required, will be put on,
the mangers examined to ascertain if any corn be
left, in which case it must be removed when the
boys go to their breakfasts.

The morning meal being discussed, they return
to their duties, turn their horses' heads round, put on

STABLE DISCIPLINE. 71

the bridles and hoods, and finally draw up the girths.
The trainer or head lad should then go round to
ascertain if everything is in proper order ; when the
boys are put up, and the horses kept walking in the
yard, or some convenient place, -till they are all
marshalled in their ranks, which is usually regulated
by age upon the maxim of seniores priores. The
head lad, if he be riding a horse in work, brings up
the rear, so that he may be able to detect any tricks
which either boys or horses may be tempted to prac-
tise ; or if he be riding a hack, he takes such a posi-
tion as to be able to see what is going on in front.
This, however, is an office which the trainer usually
reserves to himself. In this manner they proceed to
the exercise ground, where, having walked the ne-
cessary time, they take their canters, gallops, sweats,
or such work as their condition requires. On re-
turning to the stable, the hoods and bridles having
been removed, and the girths slackened, the horses
have their heads, necks, and manes brushed, well
wisped, and finished with a rubber, during which
process a lock of hay should be given ; the legs and
feet are then washed, observing that every particle
of grit and dirt is removed from the frogs, as also
between the web of the shoe and sole of the foot ;
the legs may either be bandaged or rubbed dry. To
prevent the necessity of keeping the animals stripped
longer than is absolutely necessary, if the weather be
cold, the clothing may be thrown forward for the pur-
pose of brushing the quarters, the inside of the thighs,
and the hocks: that being concluded, the water is

F 4

72 STABLE PRACTICE.

given, and they are immediately stripped ; when they
should be dressed with vigour, at the same time
without violence or abuse, which to irritable, high-
couraged horses is very annoying ; often occasioning
them to break out, and very frequently causing
them to become vicious. Those which have thin,
delicate skins, can scarcely endure the friction of the
brush, unless it be a very soft one. The damp wisp
should be used freely to all. The operation of dress-
ing being concluded, and the clothing adjusted, the
legs are to be finished ; if they have been bandaged,
that apparatus is to be removed, and in either case
the legs require to be thoroughly brushed and hand-
rubbed. The feet next claim attention in the way
of stopping, and the occasional application of the tar
ointment. The succeeding ceremony is that of
feeding ; when those horses which consume their first
allowance with a good appetite, may have a similar
portion repeated. During the time they are feeding,
the boxes or stalls are set fair, and if any should
reject their corn, it is to be removed; after which
their hay is to be given, and the doors closed till five
o'clock, when the same routine of dressing, watering,
and feeding is renewed. At eight o'clock they are
fed again, have their portion of hay for the night,
and are then shut up.

This course of discipline is applicable alike to racing
and hunting stables ; but in the latter the custom of
washing the horses after they return from the chase
is very frequently adopted, and certainly, when
properly conducted, with good effect. It cleanses

STABLE DISCIPLINE. 73

ie coat and skin more perfectly than any other
icans, and is much more expeditiously performed — a
reat desideratum, especially when the animals are
itigued. The necessity of a stall box, or conve-
ient apartment for the purpose, must be apparent,
i it would be very improper to wash horses in the
alls or boxes wherein they are to remain. To
srform this effectually, two helpers are necessary,
> that it may be done quickly. In fact, under any
rcumstances, there should always be two persons
nployed to dress each horse after hunting. Having
ashed the horses with warm water and soft soap,
othing more is requisite than to scrape them as dry
5 possible, and immediately cover them with a full
lit of clothing kept for the purpose ; at the same
me the legs must be bandaged ; thus they are con-
gned to their, usual stalls or boxes, and a bran
lash is given, half a bucket of linseed, oatmeal, or
our gruel having been offered before the process of
ashing commences, and during which a lock of hay
lould be placed within their reach. In the course
f an hour it will be found that all or nearly all the
loisture which could not be removed by scraping is
bsorbed in the clothing, which is then to be re-
loved ; they are then wisped over, which two men
ill perform in ten minutes, dry clothing substituted,
nd the legs attended to. They are fed, and shut
p for the night.
It is an object of considerable importance, both
ith race-horses and hunters, that they should not
e unnecessarily disturbed during the day-time be-

74 STABLE PRACTICE.

tween stable hours ; that is, from the period win
the doors are closed after the morning's routine h
been performed, till the afternoon operations coi
me nee. Most trainers are very particular in tl
respect, and properly so ; neither is there any reas<
why the same practice should not be observed wi
hunters. After horses have been working hard, tfo
will, if undisturbed, generally lie down during t;
day ; and it is a wanton piece of thoughtlessness
interrupt them unnecessarily. With hunters it is
great object, after a severe chase, to restore the
from their fatigues as quickly as possible, whi
cannot be effected unless they are permitted to enj<
their repose.

75

CHAP. VIII.

TRAINING AT TWO YEARS OLD.

iversity of Opinions. — Events which determine the Propriety of
early Eacing. — Overgrown Stock. — Undersized Stock. — Effects of
early Eacing on overgrown Colts. — Distinction between the Work
necessary for present and future Engagements. — Large Horses
require much Time for Training. — Reasons why small Horses are
capable of running at an earlier Age than large Ones. — Weedy
Stock. — Consequences of Procrastination. — Opinions formed from
extreme Cases. — Circumstances calculated to determine the Pro-
priety of running at Two Years old. — Action. — Change of Action.
— Causes thereof. — Action in some Cases restored by Rest. —
Management of a Candidate for a forthcoming Derby. — Moderate
Work recommended at Two Years old. — Paramount Object. —
Betting Adventures. — Comparison of Work between young and
old Horses and between Boys and Men. — Customs of Trainers. —
State of young Stock. — Their Nutrition, Growth, and Work con-
sidered.— Reference to the " Stud Farm." — Time when Yearlings
should become Inmates of the Training Stables. — Gradual Pre-
paration.— Increase of Work. — Successful Treatment in certain
Stables. — Owners of Horses. — Patronage. — Two Years Old
Stakes.

'he treatment of horses at the tender age of two
ears is a subject which has produced much diversity
f opinion. The chief points to be kept in view are
le effects which early training for the purpose of
icing has upon young animals, distinguishing be-
>veen that kind of preparation necessary for imme-
iate appearance in public, and that which is re-

76 STABLE PRACTICE.

quired for future engagements. The inducemen
held forth by the existing customs of the turf in tl I
value of stakes open for competition by two yea
old stock, and the desire to ascertain as early i
possible the relative qualites and action of every ii
dividual, are ostensible motives.

The growth and proportions of particular anima
are points not to be overlooked. A large overgrow '
colt, with long striding action, is certainly not tl|
kind to be selected for racing at an early age ; indee I
they are sometimes not fit at three years old. Mai I
such creatures have been brought out and condemn*
at that early age, — perchance, have not gained respe
the succeeding year, — but after attaining greater m
turity have become superior horses. On the oth I
hand, small, symmetrically formed juveniles, wi
quick action, have attained high honours at two yea
old, but could never accomplish any great fe
afterwards. With respect to the first descriptio
the opponents of early training will urge, that if tl
animals had not been worked so soon, they wou
have evinced greater superiority when more advance
in years. That, however, depends entirely upon tl
treatment which they receive. If large, weakl;
loose-made colts, while they are rapidly growin:
undergo strong preparations, no doubt the effects wi
have prejudicial influences upon their constitutioi
and their limbs. The texture of their muscles, sinew
and bones not being sufficiently matured, the weake
parts fail ; but it does not follow that because they ai
inmates of the training stables, they must be prepare

TEAINING AT TWO YEAES OLD. 77

i race, or that they should be subjected to a greater
] oportion of work than is'conducive to their welfare,
'here is a marked distinction between the ordeal re-
uired for immediate racing, and that which promotes
*e capabilities of enduring future preparations.

Of all kinds of horses, such as those now alluded
ij require the most time to get them quite up to
ije mark ; and although it may not be prudent to
in them, it is quite necessary to keep them in
intle work. "With those which are undersized, the
i.ducements to run them at an early age are more
fear; they are better able to bear the prepara-
ipn, because they are in a more forward state of ina-
nity ; their natural powers being more concentrated,
ley are mechanically or comparatively stronger. In
iis class I do not mean to include little, worthless,
eedy creatures, that are not worth training at any
::e, but the small, well-shaped ones whose muscular
pwers have assumed a precocious development. If
ie opportunity of winning with them be deferred,
le chances may be very problematical at a future
;;riod. These two extremes have led many persons
I the conclusion that early racing is the bane of
;mng stock ; with respect to overgrown colts it is
inerally correct, with the undersized ones it is
jmbtful.

The object with every owner of race-horses is un-
'festionably to make the best and most profitable use
•| the stud; therefore, the respective properties of each
aimal must guide the determination, whether they
,ould run at two years old or not. Similar arguments

78 STABLE PRACTICE.

will apply to those of intermediate size ; the propriet
of running them will depend very considerably upo
their constitutions. Young horses are reared wit
so much attention to the early development of the:
powers, and the system has been so much improve
upon within the last forty years, that the two ye?
olds are quite as capable of running three quartei
of a mile in August and September as the three jet
olds of former days were to run their accustome
distances, and the juveniles are quite as able to be? I
their preparations.

It is a subject of some importance to ascertail
the style of going of young stock, as well as to forj I
some opinion of their racing properties as early i
possible, and for this purpose it is very common 1 i
prepare and try them as yearlings, but it is not
very satisfactory probation. Many will alter in the |
action very materially when put to work ; some wi |
improve, others will deteriorate; but it may tl
relied upon as an almost invariable criterion, that
bad goer at two years old will never make a supi
rior race-horse. Disproportioned limbs or natur; \
weakness in some parts, either from accident or n;
tural imperfections, are the usual causes of baf
action, and it is very seldom they are overcom«
There are many with action sufficiently good to pas i
muster, with whom it will go off for a time, whe
they again recover it. This must be ascribed t
indisposition, or too much work ; when the faculty : |
restored by rest.

If I were fortunate enough to possess a very pre

TRAINING AT TWO YEARS OLD. 79

ifsing colt engaged in a Deri))', I should certainly

jefer bringing him out once or twice at two years

d, providing he would bear a preparation which

aould be moderate, if it were only for the purpose of

[customing him to appear in public;. but I would

lit work him severely, although his chance of win-

g might be lessened by the indulgence. In such

ase I should consider the object of securing the

e ribbon of the turf as paramount, without any

jference to the position the colt might occupy in the

Itting, consequent upon his winning his twTo years

[(] engagements.

i There is as much impropriety in giving young
i imals an amount of work they cannot be expected
t bear, as there is in allowing them to be absolutely
ie. It is equally unreasonable to suppose that colts
(ly two years old should endure the same labour as
I Dse a year older, as it is to expect a boy at fifteen
cm undergo as much fatigue as a man at five-and-
tfenty ; supposing of course that the respective sub-
lets are each of them in health, and endowed with
teir ordinary faculties. The treatment of yearlings
Is already been noticed in the " Stud Farm," that is,
Ip. the time arrives when the training stables become
Je most appropriate asylums for them, which ought
|t to be postponed later than the month of July or
iigust. They will then be brought imperceptibly
l|rough the finishing process of tuition, and become
[iadually prepared for such work as their constitu-
)ns can safely bear, and their engagements require,
ie period of the year when it is intended they

80 STABLE PRACTICE.

should make their debut in public, conjoined wit
their respective constitutions, must regulate the tire
when it becomes necessary that their work should I
increased ; but it should be borne in mind that tr
hardiest, most robust, and powerful require tl
longest and strongest preparation. Some traine:
insist upon the necessity of sweating the youngste:
under heavy clothing, and of going nearly or quii
the same distances as older horses. Others thei
are wrho never sweat them at all. If one of tl
two extremes be imperative, the latter appears 1
be the most rational ; but the constitution and coi
dition of every individual is the safest and best guid
An over-abundance of fat is a great hindrance 1
commence with, for it must be reduced ; and if that t
effected prematurely, in all probability it wTill be doi
at the expense of some important faculty. Your
creatures in that state can scarcely be expected to be:
work sufficient to enable them to run without injui
to their legs or constitutions, unless a great length i
time is allowed for the gradual reduction. It mu
be remembered they are at this period in a growir
state, when nature requires a certain portion of nutr
tion to support increase of bulk, and to develc
various functions ; if, therefore, animals are deprive
of that nourishment by excessive labour, debilit
and emaciation succeed, the consequences of whic
may probably never be overcome.

Some few owners of race-horses have been for
series of years particularly successful with the
young stock ; and although I do not consider myse

TRAINING AT TWO YEARS OLD. 81

at liberty to specify the stables to which I allude, I
know the treatment adopted in them has been similar
to that which I have recommended.

There is yet another circumstance worthy of
notice. Unless gentlemen who breed and train horses
considered such engagements conducive to their inte-
rests, they would not subscribe the large sums they
frequently do to stakes for colts and fillies at two
years old, more especially when it is remembered
that the attraction in the addition of public money
is not generally offered in an equal ratio as it is to
stakes for older horses. The economy and policy of
such matters are determined by the proprietors of
horses ; hence, whatever views may be held by per-
sons who are merely lookers on, must be erroneous
if opposed to practice.

82 STABLE PRACTICE.

CHAP. IX.

FIRST AND SECOND PREPARATIONS.

Physic. — Indications. — Cooling Lotions. — The Tendons. — The
Hocks. — Concussion. — Over-exertion, its Effects. — Rest. —
Diuretics. — Increase of Work. — Trainer's or Groom's Judgment.
— Objects to be gained. — Healthy State of the Blood. — Disorders
produced. — Faculties of Animals. — Increased Power of sustaining
Work. — Duration of daily Exercise. — First Preparation con- *
nected with Breaking. — Period required. — Circumstances which
denote the Necessity of Physic. — Distinction between First and I
Second Preparations. — Sweating. — All Horses cannot bear the
same Quantity of Exercise. — Trials.

When the colt has completed his education suf-
ficiently to justify his being put into gentle work, it
will generally be advisable to give him a couple oi
doses of physic. A variety of circumstances may
occur to indicate the propriety of this course. Slight
effusions in the legs, in consequence of the indolent
state of the absorbent vessels connected with those
parts, also heat more or less about the fetlock joints
and hocks, will be the most prevailing symptoms,
which should be minutely investigated. It may, in
many cases, be prudent to apply a cooling lotion to
some of the joints. Numerous curbs are thrown out,
and inflammation in the sheath of the tendons, natu-
rally predisposed to relaxation, terminates in incurable
lameness, by hurrying young horses in their work,

FIRST AND SECOND PREPARATIONS. 83

which physic, and a week or two of rest, would cor-
rect. Nothing can be more injudicious than working
a horse when incipient inflammation is detected in
the hocks. On its first appearance it may be only
seated in the secreting vessels, but, 'if neglected, it
extends to the arterial and venous circulation, from
which it is sympathetically communicated to the
sinews, about which a deposit ensues, and their action
is thereby impeded. There is an impression that
work will rouse the absorbent vessels, and thus reduce
the enlargement ; but this is an experiment too ha-
zardous to be justified.

The fore legs are subject to similar affections,
with the additional inconvenience arising from con-
cussion, which alone will not only produce this dis-
ordered state of the limbs, but is certain, if the
animal be worked, to maintain the inflammatory
condition where it has once commenced. It must
be borne in mind that these evils had their origin
from an amount of exertion beyond what the frame
was capable of sustaining: this is more frequently
the case with young than aged horses; and it is
irrational to conceive that the event which caused
the malady, should restore the parts to their natural
state, and effect a cure. Without temporary rest
nothing can avail, and that should be assisted with
gentle doses of physic by way of alteratives.

Diuretics, very sparingly and judiciously admi-
nistered, will frequently promote a cure; but the
utmost caution is necessary not to exhibit strong
doses, or persist in their continuance during any

G 2

84 STABLE PRACTICE.

length of time, lest the coats of the stomach be in-
curably injured.

After having put a horse to moderate exercise, if
no unfavourable symptoms occur, his work may be
gradually increased. In this the discretion and judg-
ment of the trainer or groom will proclaim much of
his capacity and knowledge of his business. An
inexperienced, headstrong person will force his charge
through work when totally unfit to endure it, and
probably by so doing ruin the animal for ever. A
juvenile trainer with a Pharmacopoeia of nostrums is
the most dangerous character that can be engaged to
direct the management of horses : he will always be
trying, at the same time that he is giving them work,
to patch up defects, which nothing but rest, and
simple cooling remedies, can effect.

The principal objects to be gained by the first pre-
paration,— whether it be a young animal that never
has been trained, or one of more mature age, which
from accident, or some other cause, has been thrown
out of work, — are to accustom the limbs to exertion
by such moderate and almost imperceptible degrees as
they are capable of bearing without injury, and tc
bring the blood to such a state of perfection, that the
circulation may be free, vigorous, and healthy. Wher
it is remarked that the respiratory organs are in s
great measure influenced by the state of the blood
that the renewal of the muscular system is derivec
entirely from the blood, it seems scarcely necessary
to urge any other reasons as to the importance of th<
strictest attention to its healthy state. During '<

FIRST AND SECOND PREPARATIONS. OO

protracted period of inactivity, and most especially
with good and nourishing food, the blood acquires a
plethoric condition, in which state it is quite unfit to
pass through the various channels when excited by
rapid motion. This is readily distinguished by the
excessive action of the lungs ; and thus inflammation
of those delicate and important organs, ruptured
blood-vessels, swelled legs, colds, inflamed eyes, and
other serious affections, have their origin, if the
animal is caused to undergo exertions without a
rational preparation. It is by gradually increasing
the amount of labour conformably with the capabili-
ties of his constitution, and the power of his limbs,
that we may reasonably expect to obtain the maxi-
mum of a horse's physical force and endurance.

In regulating the work which a horse should per-
form, circumstances must be our guide. From one
to two hours' walking exercise daily, and a canter
of half a mile, occasionally increased to a mile, twice
or three times a week, is as much as some light-con-
stitutioned, weakly creatures can conveniently bear;
while those which are robust and hardy will advan-
tageously accomplish three hours' walking exercise,
and a canter approximating to half speed every day.
At this crisis an opinion may be formed of the
temper and constitution which will materially guide
future operations.

The first preparation of young stock includes a
certain proportion of the process of breaking. It
is a step of advancement in the life of the animal,
and the duration of this preliminary ordeal will in a

G 3

86 STABLE PRACTICE.

great measure be determined by the progress that has
heretofore been made in his education. In general,
unless some accident intervenes, from six to eight
weeks will be the average term ; when arrangements
are made for the second preparation, prior to which
two doses more of mild physic are usually necessary.
I make use of the term usually, in distinction to
that of invariably, as there may be instances in which
it is not only unnecessary but injudicious to give
physic, as it would be prejudicial to the promotion of
condition. If the animal be already too light of
flesh, of a weakly constitution, and free from all in-
dications bespeaking the necessity for medicine, I
should by no means recommend it.

The difference between the first and second pre-
paration consists in the quantity of work, and the
manner of giving it. The process of sweating is now
generally introduced ; a subject which will be found
discussed in a separate chapter. In this place it is
only necessary to observe with reference to that ope-
ration, that the pace should be moderate, and the
distance conformable to the strength and state of the
subject ; three miles, or three miles and a half, is
quite enough for the first essay.

One of the errors that may be occasionally noticed
in training stables, is that of all the horses being
kept out the same length of time, arising often from
the fact, that it is not safe to trust boys to take home
their horses by themselves, or to dress them till the
trainer or head lad can return ; but as some horses
require much more exercise than their companions,

FIRST AND SECOND PREPARATIONS. 87

and particular horses more on some clays than others,
it is highly important that such arrangements be
made as will permit the practice of apportioning each
animal's work to his temporary capabilities rather
than make the duration of exercise- subservient to
personal convenience.

Towards the conclusion of the second preparation
it may be considered advisable to give young horses
something of a trial, or, as it is technically called, " a
spin." Two motives present themselves for this sug-
gestion, the one being to ascertain something of their
pretensions to favour, and the other to teach them
something of racing. Whether they be tried or
not, they should be occasionally accustomed to work
stripped, in order that they may not be alarmed
when running divested of their clothing.

G 4

88 STABLE PRACTICE.

CHAP. X.

FINAL PREPARATION.

Work to be regulated by Circumstances. — Symptoms denoting the
requisite Quantity of Work. — When insufficient. — When pro-
perly apportioned. — When too severe. — Venial Error. — Com-
parison between old and young Horses. — Daily Exercise. —
Walking. — State of the Evacuation's. — Irritability of the Bowels.

— Sometimes produced by Cold. — Remedy. — Cantering. — Po-
sition for the Trainer. — Examination after pulling up. — r To be
brought Home cool, but not suffered to become chilled.— Time ,
when the strongest Work is recommended. — Sweats preferable to
rattling Gallops. — Notes of Preparation. — The final Gallop.—
Indications of Pitness to run.— Treatment on the Day prior to run-
ning. — Necessary Examinations. — The Muzzle. — Alternatives
with irritable Horses. — Examples. — Quietude of Stables desirable.

— Treatment on the Morning of running. — Leading out. — Treat-
ment on returning. — Exercise distinguished from Work. — Cir- !
cumstances under which Exercise is proper. — Difference of Con-
stitution. — Stout, muscular Horses. — Delicate Horses. — Every
Horse has his Distance. — Hunters. — Exercise during the Hunting
Season. — Analogy between Hunters and Race-horses. — Steeple-
chase Horses.

The exact amount of work that a race-horse requires
to enable him to run, or that will qualify a hunter to
follow hounds, varies so considerably in different
subjects that it is impossible to state precisely what
may be necessary. The only alternative, in this
case, is to explain the symptoms which indicate the
necessity for extra work, those which proclaim that

FINAL PREPARATION. 89

the animal is going on satisfactorily, and the appear-
ances which claim indulgence. To regulate the nice
point — the maximum proportion of exercise a horse
can bear, so that he will come to the post in the
best possible condition — requires great attention on
the part of the trainer ; it is one of his most difficult
and important duties. At the same time no man
ought to be disheartened in the attempt, if he will
only call to his aid, assiduity, observation, and com-
mon sense.

In the chapter on Sweating, the reasons for adopt-
ing that process, and the effects produced on the
horse, are fully explained. I will now confine my-
self to those symptoms to which the trainer's atten-
tion must be particularly directed. A horse whose
work has been insufficient will give evidence in the
action of the lungs ; when pulled up after a moderate
gallop, his flanks will heave with considerable vio-
lence, and it will be some time before they regain
their ordinary quietude. This must not, however,
be mistaken or confounded with any affection arising
from cold, roaring, or temporary indisposition imme-
diately connected with the respiratory organs. The
quantity and appearance of the perspiration will
afford a very significant criterion ; when too copious,
and of a soapy character, it proclaims the existence
of a superabundance of fat and an inspissated condition
of the blood. The eyes, after a strong gallop or
sweat, will sometimes exhibit more than an ordinary
degree of redness, or fulness of the blood-vessels. The
ribs also give proof of the presence of too much fat ;

90 STABLE PRACTICE.

the animal generally looks too lusty without a suffi-
cient development of muscle, and with his daily
exercise he appears to be gaining more fat than
muscle. A few additional sweats, judiciously managed,
will in general produce the desired results.

When the work is duly commensurate with the
constitution, the lungs will act with freedom, and
very soon after the horse has performed his gallop
the flanks will recover their usual regularity oi
action. The perspiration flows freely, is clear, and
quickly dries after exertion without leaving a quan-
tity of frothy stains. The eyes, although showing a
greater degree of redness after sweating than wher
the circulation of the blood is not excited, do noil
exhibit that extreme fulness of blood previously
noticed. The nostrils, which will become distendec
by a smart gallop, are soon restored to their natura
condition after the horse has been pulled up. Wher
the hand is passed along the ribs they should fee
firm, clean to the touch, free from adipose deposit ;
their bareness will, however, depend much upon the
make of the animal, and, to a certain degree, upor
the length of time he has been in work. The coal
should feel silky, and possess a blooming, glossy
appearance, than which there is not a more expressive
criterion of health; for it may be regarded as a
general principle, that so long as a horse looks parti-
cularly brilliant in his skin there cannot be any
constitutional infirmity. He will, under favourable
circumstances, increase in muscular development, his

FINAL PEEPARATION. 91

ction will be free and elastic, and Ills appetite good.

f, with all these happy indications, the legs are cool
and the sinews clearly defined, with the feet in good
order, he may be pronounced as advancing towards
i fit state to contend for an approaching Derby.

In the event of too much work having been exacted,
the lungs will not unfrequently exhibit a similar
condition to that noticed when the exercise has been
insufficient, but proceeding from a different cause.
In this case a debilitated condition of the system calls
forth greater efforts to perform the ordinary share of
labour, and the lungs are distressed from the effects of
exhaustion. The perspiration will flow too profusely ;
it times the horse will break out from exhaustion and
a deficiency of oxygen in the atmosphere of the stable,
which, under these circumstances, the animal requires
in greater quantities than usual. The appetite will
fail, and the sufferer will give unequivocal tokens
of weakness, emaciation, lowness of spirits, and loss of
flesh ; the digestive organs being impaired, the eva-
cuations will often become relaxed, and much food
will be thrown off in an undigested state. The coat
sometimes assumes a hollow appearance, and feels
chilly even in warm weather, and will look dull,
arising possibly from the effects of slight fever
brought on by exhaustion. The legs will most
probably fill from want of energy in the absorbents
or venous circulation. An attentive observer will
readily detect any of these symptoms, and vary the
work according to circumstances. Apart from illness,

92 STABLE PRACTICE.

which may have caused the horse to be incapable o
bearing his accustomed exercise, the remedy wil
usually be obtained by indulgence ; this, however, i
is highly important to investigate. Should the ina
bility to bear the work have arisen from a sligh
cold or any other disorder in its incipient state, tha
indisposition must be attended to, and the exercia
regulated accordingly. It must also be observe<
that the work may have occasioned some irregularity
of the system which must be relieved, according t<
the symptoms, before any amendment can be reason
ably expected.

In these delicate cases the most careful and expe
rienced person may occasionally be led into error : w
cannot always tell where to draw the line — in othe
words, when to stop ; but, over-anxious to improv
the power of the horse beyond what nature ha
limited to our use, we give him one extra gallop, o
one more sweat, and in doing so the bow, whic
has already been strung to its utmost pitch, snap
asunder, and the anticipations, hopes, and fears whic
have occupied us for months, are frustrated in
moment. Physic will, in most cases, be prope
between the intervals of the second and final pre
paration ; but that, as in most other cases, must b
indicated by circumstances mentioned in other pages

Young horses will not generally require so mud
work as older ones, although some of the former tak
a great deal ; and there are instances when the latte
can, comparatively, bear but little, and thus eacl
will want nearly a similar portion. Three hour

FINAL PREPARATION. 93

laily is the usual term for exercise when horses are
in strong work. During the first half hour the pre-
vailing custom is to give them walking exercise,
unless the morning be chilly, when it is deemed ex-
pedient to let them trot for the purpose of increasing
the circulation — a practice which has other recom-
mendations ; for it has the effect of bringing muscles
into action which are not employed in the other
paces ; and in the event of their being used at some
future time as riding horses, it accustoms them to a
Style of action that will be required of them.

There is not any indication of health more neces-
sary of observation than the state of the bowels.
The fasces of each horse should be examined before
leaving the stable ; and again when at exercise, es-
pecially during the first half hour. If they be
thrown off at first covered with a slimy mucus, and
if after the horse has been walking some time they
become relaxed, as if physic had been administered,
there is not a more unequivocal sign of irritation of
the bowels, which, under injudicious management,
may very probably proceed to inflammation or other
dangerous results. When such symptoms appear,
very little if any thing more than walking exercise is
prudent; and it may be necessary to resort to a
mild dose of physic ; when, if that does not remove
'the evil, the assistance of professional skill is ad-
Ivisable, as it is evident the system must be in a
disordered state. The influence of cold will not
lunfrequently produce the above-mentioned symptoms,
under which the bowels are very susceptible of in-

94 STABLE PRACTICE.

Hammation upon even very slight exertion. A re-
laxed condition of the bowels is frequently ascribec
to nervous irritability. Without attempting to clenj
that such is the temperament of some horses, ]
cannot refrain from observing that it more generally
arises from a disordered state of the system. If i
proceeds from nervous excitement, it is very certair
the animal must, at some period or other, have expe
rienced a severe ordeal, the reminiscences of whicl
alarm him when he finds preparations are making
similar to those preceding the event which occasione(
his distress. In such cases, the utmost degree o
tenderness and care is requisite, if possible, to recon
cile the affrighted creature, and avoid, as much as cai
be done, any act that may call to his remembranc
the origin of the evil. Old horses that have under
gone severe preparations, and have run distressing
races, are most susceptible of these consequences
Some hunters are equally excitable. These symptom
of relaxation sometimes occur from the use of nev
oats or hay ; but it can scarcely be imagined sucl
provender ever finds admission into a well-conducte(
racino; or hunting establishment.

Having considered these subjects, and the hal
hour devoted to walking exercise having elapsed
preparations for a canter ensue. Should any hors<
have given signs that it will not be prudent to re-
quire from him more than walking exercise, order;
must be given to the boy who rides him to leave the
string, and walk in the most retired, quiet place thai
can be found. Or it may be desirable the horse

FINAL PEEPARATION. 95

should have one canter only, and after that move off,
iway from the others. When the number of horses
is considerable, it is most advisable to work them in
classes, associating those whose paces are nearest upon
m equality ; this must, of course, be determined by
circumstances. After the first canter of about half
i mile, another half hour's walking exercise should
.ntervene, when they are to take another canter or a
gallop, which must be determined by the judgment
)f the person who officiates as commanding officer.
To state, in print, how many canters or how many
gallops horses will require, is an utter impossibility ;
.t must be regulated by those events which a person
present can alone decide. Horses vary from day to
day ; and for any that do not feed well, much gallop-
ing must be improper — yet three or four steady
:anters may do them good.

At the time the horses are cantering or galloping,
in order to observe the action of each horse, it is
needful for the trainer to place himself in such a
position that he can command a view of them, if
possible, throughout the whole distance, but especially
die latter portion of the gallop, by which he will be
3nabled, by signals mutually understood by the boys,
;o regulate the pace; and, likewise, being near at
hand when they pull up, will be able to detect any
ameness as they fall into the trot, — a custom which
should be invariably practised. When they have
stood still a few minutes, much information may be
gleaned by a careful investigation whether any horse
vppears more or less than usually distressed.

96 STABLE PEACTICE.

It is scarcely necessary to say that every horse
should be perfectly cool before he is taken into the
stable ; at the same time, he must not be suffered tc
become chilled. As much care is necessary to allow
the circulation to subside gradually, as in not exciting
it too violently at first. On this account a steadj
canter, as a finale to the morning's exercise, musl
always be advocated.

With the generality of horses, I consider it th<
safest and most judicious plan to give them thei
strongest work ten days or a fortnight previously t<
the time of their running, especially with youn<
ones. It is a custom adopted by some of our mos
experienced trainers, yet there are others who wor] j
them severely up to the day. By this recommenda
tion I do not mean to advise the interval of tim
just named to be devoted to idleness, or such in
dulgence as may be calculated to permit the subjec
to accumulate internal fat, which may be prevente
by gentle sweats ; but I would avoid rattling gallops
which are liable to produce staleness, and subdue th
spirits, infinitely more than properly regulated sweats
It must be remembered, that on the day prior t
a race, the horse has to undergo several little pr€
liminary forms. Fasting, or, as it is technical!]
styled, setting, is not the least significant ; and horse
frequently accustomed to it recognise it as a note c
preparation, in some instances so decidedly as t
render it a performance "more honoured in the breac
than the observance."

Whether a horse should take his last gallop on th

FINAL PREPARATION. 97

day prior to his race, or on the morning previous to
that, should be decided by his health, constitution,
and temper. In general, the latter period is to be
preferred. The principal object of the final gallop is
to keep the respiratory organs and * the muscles in
their utmost state of activity. They must have been
brought into this condition beforehand ; if they are
in good order on Monday they will not lose their
tone on Wednesday, more particularly when the ani-
mal is restricted in the allowance of hay and water,
unless some indisposition should unfortunately inter-
vene. But we will assume that the race takes
place on Wednesday, and it is decided, from the
plethoric condition of the horse, to be absolutely
necessary to sweat him on the Sunday; he will, in
the usual routine, walk on Monday, and require a
gallop on Tuesday ; however, there are few cases
where such a severe ordeal can be recommended.
Calculating, therefore, that he sweats on Friday
or Saturday, a good steady gallop on Monday will
usually be found the best practice. Gross, indolent
horses require sweating nearer to the day of run-
ning than light-fleshed and irritable ones; indeed,
if a horse is found to accumulate flesh, which some
ido very quickly, whilst others will fall away, it may
•be necessary to sweat the day but one before run-
ning. A gentle sweat, properly conducted, only one
clear day before a race, is the means of brino-ino-
many horses fresher and lighter to the post than an
3xtra share of galloping. The great art at this
prisis is to have a horse light in himself, full of
H

98 STABLE PRACTICE.

muscle, fresh on his legs, and his courage unsubdued
by unnecessary fatigue. Having declared this, and
pointed out the way in which it is to be accomplished,
under various circumstances, the discretion of the
trainer must be exercised to determine the course
most advantageous to his horse.

After the exercise, on the day prior to that of
running, a reduction in the usual quantity of hay
and water takes place. From thirty-five to forty
go-downs of water should be the limit, unless an
uncommon degree of thirst prevails. A double-
handful of hay will be sufficient when the horse is
shut up, but the allowance of corn will not vary
from the accustomed proportions. At evening stable
time from twenty-three to twenty-five go-downs of
water is the extent of fluid to be given ; and after
the last feed of corn has been consumed, a very
small portion of hay can be allowed, the general
appearance and fulness of the body being the prin-
cipal guide. An examination of the horse should not
be omitted at this period, by feeling the pulse, and
noticing the pulsations of the heart ; also the state
of the mouth, the appearance of the eyes, and the
condition of the legs. The calm working of th(
flanks will indicate the action of the lungs, unless
some particular cause of excitement exists, — whicl
may readily be distinguished, because under thos(
circumstances the horses will usually break out, oi
sweat more or less. Any unfavourable symptom!
existing, such courses must be adopted as are mos'
likely to alleviate them. Similar examinations shouk

FINAL PREPARATION. 99

be minutely observed after strong gallops and
sweats.

As it is necessary to diminish the quantity of hay
when the time for running approaches, that precau-
tion would be unavailing, in the majority of cases,
without the aid of the settinsr-muzzle. Much
mystery wTas associated with this ceremony in former
days, and it was supposed that a very select few
were adepts in this art. It was almost considered
an act of necromancy, and that such persons only
as were gifted with the profound secret could de-
termine the precise moment when the performance
of adjusting the muzzle would operate as a charm
and insure the victory. Apart from all notions bor-
dering on superstition, a very few words will suffice
to expose the absurdity of such nonsense as the sup-
position that any difference could be made in a horse's
powers by being set half an hour or an hour earlier
or later. In those days when this impression pre-
vailed it wTas not known to an hour or two at what
time a race would take place ; it is therefore ridicu-
lous to suppose that any man could calculate the
precise number of hours and minutes that should
transpire between the time a horse ought to be set
and that of the race taking place ; nevertheless there
are circumstances which regulate the propriety of
early setting, late setting, and, in some cases, of not
setting at all, which I will endeavour to explain.

The most rational guide as to the time when the
setting-muzzle should be put on with the generality
of horses, is as soon as they have consumed the little
H 2

100 STABLE PRACTICE.

bit of hay given to them after the last feed of corn
on the evening preceding the race ; but horses of a
greedy disposition, who will distend themselves by
eating the litter from under them, may sometimes
require to have a muzzle on as soon as the morning
stable work is concluded. The use of this apparatus
is simply to prevent horses from eating their straw,
and therefore their individual propensities will on all
occasions influence the propriety of adopting it. To
say the least of it, it is an annoying appendage, and
therefore the less its aid is called into requisition the
better. Hence, so long as a horse has no inclina-
tion to consume more than the food which is given
to him, setting may be advantageously deferred till
his appetite induces him to transgress ; and thus an
early hour on the morning of the race, especially if
the engagement is fixed to come off late in the day,
is with many horses quite soon enough. Observation
is on these occasions a valuable monitor, because
horses differ so exceedingly in the powers of absti-
nence,— indeed as much so as in their tempers. It
frequently happens that horses have to run on two
consecutive days, or sometimes with one intervening,
and it is found that some run better on the second
than the first occasion ; again, there are others with
which that order will be reversed. In the first case,
one of the causes will arise from the fact that the
animal can run most advantageously when set very
sharp; in the latter, that so long an abstinence is
prejudicial. As a rule, it may be regarded that
hearty feeders require sharper setting than delicate

FINAL TREPANATION. 101

ones ; but that is by no means invariably the case, be-
cause the digestion of the former being the strongest,
and usually the quickest, the food is got rid of, in
many instances, quite as rapidly as in others. That
the stomach and intestines should be free from an
unnecessary quantity of food is perfectly consistent
with reason ; but they must not be thoroughly empty,
and what little is contained should be of a nutritive
character.

In the foregoing cases it is presumed that the sub-
jects are of a perfectly placid temper, and that the
exhibition of the muzzle does not occasion alarm and
irritability, which with some horses it will do to a
very prejudicial extent. Some of those which have
frequently gone through this ordeal will break out
most profusely the moment they are aware of the
proceedings about to take place. To set them on
the over-night would entirely destroy every hope of
their running successfully. A little tact is necessary
with such creatures, and those things which indicate
the note of preparation must be carefully kept away.
The muzzle is with them the most prominent item ;
therefore wdien it is found to be repugnant to the
notions of these acute observers, other alternatives
must be adopted. In most cases these animals, being
irritable, are light feeders, and therefore restrictions
are not so urgent ; the expedient of not letting them
have fresh straw under them to tempt their appetites
may be resorted to with propriety, and they must be
kept with their heads racked up as much as possible.
An extra half hour or an hour's walking exercise on

II 3

102 STABLE PRACTICE.

the morning of running will assist in relieving them
of plenitude, and, in many instances, a canter may
be desirable.

With cunning old horses some variations in the
observances up to the last moment of going to the
post may be necessary so as to avoid excitement, but
the principles should be adhered to as nearly as pos-
sible. Different horses evince their caprices in
various ways ; some will be perfectly reconciled, un-
less a particular event takes place ; and others are so
sensitive as not to allow the most trivial circumstance
to escape their notice. I knew one horse, an animal
of repute, who could not endure having his mane
plaited ; and I had a mare in my own possession who
would calmly undergo every act of preparation but
that of being led on to the course : the moment she
found where she was going to she would break out
in a profuse sweat, and all chance of her beating
a donkey was at an end ; but by saddling her in the
stable, and leading her direct to the starting-post at
the precise moment, and without any preparatory
canter let her go, she would run respectably.

The noise and confusion in the vicinity of a race-
course on the eve of the day of running is most
especially calculated to disturb the repose of horsec
usually accustomed to the utmost quietude ; and aftei
a few repetitions, it is not surprising that it shoulc
operate as a warning of what is about to follow. 11
is therefore highly desirable to procure accommoda-
tion where the least possible disturbance exists.
The ceremonies of adjusting the plates and plait-

FINAL PREPARATION. 103

ing the manes are frequently performed on the after-
noon of the day before running with good effect, as
it avoids the necessity for disturbing the horses at
a period of time when quietude is important. This
may, however, be postponed till the- morning to suit
convenience. An early hour should be appointed for
going to stable on the day of running, when the
horses are only permitted to take a quantity of water
just sufficient to wash their mouths preparatory to a
feed of corn. They must then be walked out for an
hour, or more, according to circumstances, and when
brought back to the stables half a dozen go-downs
only of water can be sanctioned. After the usual
routine of dressing, they are fed again, but no more
hay is allowed ; the muzzle is adjusted, the stable
door closed, and they are suffered to lie down. About
three hours prior to the time appointed for their
respective races to come off they are once more
visited, their heads racked up, finally wisped over, and
a double handful of corn presented to them. About
an hour before the races come off is the usual time
for leading out, dependent in all cases upon whether
it may be necessary to leave the stable earlier, as in
the event of late setting, or such causes as may indi-
cate the propriety of additional time for evacuations.
The treatment to be observed on returning to the
stable after running, is precisely similar to that after
sweating.

Apart from what may be emphatically termed
work, there is a modification which should more

H 4

104 STABLE PRACTICE.

strictly be denominated exercise, and, whether applied
to race-horses or hunters, ought to be understood as
signifying just that quantity of daily labour which
will keep them in health, and preserve the condition
to which they have been brought by judicious work
and training: — for example, during the first two or
three days following a race, horses seldom require
more than walking exercise. Much of a trainer's
attention and ability is put to the test to get horses
perfectly fit on the day of running ; but if those
horses have subsequent engagements near at hand,
his care and judgment are still required to keep his
charges in the same state. When horses are once
thoroughly prepared, that class of work which may
with propriety be termed exercise, with most animals
will be best adapted for the purpose. Some horses
are only up to the highest pitch of their excellence
when they are full of muscular development, others
only when they are very light in their appearance ;
and it may be regarded as a general, though by no
means an universal principle, that those which are
constitutionally disposed to carry an abundance of
muscle will perform best when they appear lusty to
the eye, and those which are constitutionally light,
when drawn fine. Here, however, it is necessary to
observe the great distinction between the indications
of muscle and the deceptive accumulation of external
fat. Animals which deposit a vast quantity of fat
internally, — that is about the region of the heart and
the lungs, such as are commonly described as thick
winded, — require to be sweated frequently with a vast

FINAL PREPARATION. 105

:leal of work on intermediate Clays. "With them a sweat
every fifth or sixth clay is necessary, and in some cases
it is desirable to sweat them within three days of their
running. The great difficulty is in giving them the
necessary amount of work without injuring their legs ;
especially if the ground be hard. For this reason it
is better to sweat them frequently at a very steady
pace, than encounter the great risk of breaking them
down by repeated rattling gallops. As a contrast to
these are light delicate creatures, generally mares,
that can scarcely ever bear to be sweated ; and when
pat process is deemed indispensable, they should not
be encumbered with any clothing whatever, but
merely allowed to go the distance for the purpose of
Enabling them to stay their course. The same prin-
:iple holds good with hunters; and whatever preju-
dices some of the old school may entertain against the
practice, horses will be got into better wind with
couch less injury to their legs, and will acquire a
greater proportion of muscular power, by a few gentle
sweats than by frequent gallops. But there are many
persons who follow hounds possessing but an imper-
fect idea of the value of condition, from the simple
?act that they never have their hunters in that en-
viable state.

With reference to hunters the distinction between
i.vork and exercise is even more striking. Their
treatment during the summer months, since Nimrod
•escued them from the miseries, dangers, and dimi-
lished value, accompanied with the olden custom of
:urning them like bullocks into the open fields to

106 STABLE PRACTICE.

graze, renders the preparation of them for the chase
in November a work of easy attainment. To have
hunters in high condition no green food should be
given, and if it is not considered convenient or ex-
pedient to give them exercise in the summer, — a prac-
tice decidedly conducive to their welfare,— they must
be accommodated with sufficient room in loose boxes
with outlets or yards. I am aware there are persons
who still advocate the ancient practice of giving
hunters green food in the summer, but practical ex-
perience proves that the acme of condition cannot b(
attained by that plan. The quality of the blood
consequently the circulation, the vessels connectec
therewith, the muscular system, and all those import- '
ant functions of the body which depend upon th<t
state of the blood, are so completely changed by sue
culent diet, that the time which intervenes betweei j
summer and winter is insufficient to allow the part
to be restored to that state which is absolutely ne j
cessary to the acquirement of high condition. Thi
middle of August is the period for commencing
their preparations with physic; and when it is ob :
served that the pace at which they will be requirec
to go, taking into consideration the fences they hav< \
to clear, fully equals in point of exertion the effort;
of race-horses, it is quite evident their conditioi
should be equally good, and similar means adoptee
to produce that result. Hunters do not generally
require to be so frequently sweated as race-horses
because it is not desirable to draw them so fine

FINAL PREPARATION. 107

neither should their gallops be, comparatively with
their speed, at so fast a pace; but, with those dis-
tinctions, no difference should be made in their treat-
ment. The same observances with regard to feeding
and stable discipline are perfectly applicable. When
the hunting season commences, if regularly ridden
with hounds, very little more than walking exercise
lis necessary to keep them in order. There are of
bourse exceptions to this rule with some, and in the
levent of a horse by any chance missing his day with
jhounds, a good striding gallop or two will be advis-
able to keep him in wind.

The general treatment of steeple-chase horses is in
ia few cases only different from that of race-horses.
lAs they are required to run greater distances, their
work should be apportioned and their pace slower.
[Practising them at fences is likewise an observance
Inot to be forgotten, and taking them out with hounds
as a portion of their training is decidedly the best
method of rendering them perfect ; but at the same
time they should be ridden by a good horseman, who
makes the horse's training his motive for hunting, and
inot the pleasures of the chase.

Every horse has his distance ; some can only excel
in half mile races, others are best at the end of a
imile, a mile and a half, or two miles, and often
i evince their superiority at the end of three miles.
i These faculties it is very essential to ascertain, not
only for the purpose of placing them, but of regu-
lating their work. Horses with great speed, may,

108 STABLE PRxlCTICE.

as they gain maturity, with a long and very judi-
cious preparation, be brought out to ran favour-
ably, a little beyond their distance ; but they never
will exceed it greatly, and the fact of their being
successful in such cases must generally be attributed
to the inferior capabilities of their antagonists over
the length of course on which they happen to run.

109

CHAP. XI.

SWEATING.

General Knowledge of the Terra. — Necessity for the Process. —
Distinction between fat and muscular Horses. — Fat and its Use
described. — Phenomenon of the Blood. — Congestion of the
Lungs. — Nourishment from Fat. — Parts where Fat is deposited.
Importance of Fat. — Effects of severe Sweating. — Young
Horses deposit Fat more constantly than old Ones. — Importance
of maintaining the Condition of old Horses. — The muscular
System considered. — The Action of the Muscles. — Muscular
Development. — Process of Sweating. — The proper Adaptation of
Clothing. — Material. — Distance. — Preparations. — Objection to
the Muzzle. — The Canter. — The Sweat. — Kind of Ground to be
selected. — Pace. — Idle Horses. — Caution against destroying the
Courage. — Rubbing-house or Place for Scraping. — Scraping-
out of Doors. — Objection to Sweating in windy Weather. —
Observances at the Time of Scraping. — Scraping — Gallop after
sweating. — Routine of the Stable. — Expedition in Dressing. —
Danger from taking Cold. — Dry Hay preferable to Wet. — Tem-
perature of the Stable. — Breaking out. — Practice at Afternoon
Stable Time. — Causes of Horses breaking out. — Exercise on the
Day after Sweating. — Intervals between Sweats. — Varieties of
Constitutions. — Sweating Hunters.

Every stable-boy knows that sweating has the effect
)f reducing the quantity of fat, or, to use his own
more familiar expression, that it makes the horse
ighter ; but how and why the fat should be diminished
it is necessary to explain.

The object to be gained by sweating is to un-
burden the system of all superfluous fat, both that

110 STABLE PRACTICE.

which is contained in the internal parts of the body,
and that which is deposited among the interstices of
the muscles and the cellular membranes more imme-
diately in contact with the surface or outer skin ; the
overabundance of which interferes with the action oi
the muscles. A horse may appear to the eye full oi
flesh without being muscular, that is, without th*
muscles being clearly denned and in that full force o
development which they are capable of acquiring fron
nutritious food and judicious exercise. Unless the}
are in that state the animal is not equal to the per
formance of great efforts of speed and endurance.

Fat may be denominated the superfluous and oil;
portions of the blood, which being deposited in certaii
cells or reservoirs, and conveyed there by vessel
adapted to that office from the extremities of th
arteries, is intended for the purpose of lubricating th
adjacent parts; hence a reason why the state of th I
blood is so intimately connected with the condition oi
the animal. The study of physiology teaches m
that if the blood be too viscid and its particles sepa
rate with difficulty, the circulation ceases, becaus
blood in that state cannot pass through the lungs
being thus obstructed, it is effused into the substanc
of that organ. Hence congestion of the lungs is ofte:
produced, and frequently becomes chronic. This is
condition to which hunters and race-horses are ver;
susceptible ; and, as it must have a prejudicial effec
upon the respiratory functions, the necessity of pre
caution becomes manifest. Superficial observers ar

SWEATING. 1 1 1

oo apt to disregard this fact ; they are not in reality
Lware of the injuries produced by improper food,
|;uch as an abundance of green succulent herbage,
riven in the juvenile days of the horse, or when at
[est, and which, not being eradicated from the system
brior to work, occasions this and many other evils.
Dolds will produce a similar inconvenience. The body
evidently derives much nourishment from the fat
fvhich it contains, for long fasting decreases the
imantity very considerably. This substance is found
n the region of the stomach, about the kidneys, at
the basis of the heart, and in the interstices of the
Inuscles, and if deposited in too great abundance it
Obstructs the freedom of those particular organs.

The ordinary uses of these oily humours are under-
stood to be the faculty of supplying moisture to the
surrounding parts. In moderate quantities it is
essential ; it facilitates the action of the muscles, and
defends them from attrition, or, more familiarly speak-
.n£, from friction. Thus it will be observed, that
il though it is necessary to reduce the quantity within
the bounds of moderation, it would not be consistent
;to carry on that reduction to excess. It is one of the
prdinations of nature, that a certain portion of fat
phould remain in the body, as it is constantly being
jrenewed by absorption, and a faculty of depositing
itself in those situations where it is required. It is,
(therefore, very certain, that that power of constant
renewal would not have been ordained if the presence
of the substance were not essentially necessary.

112 STABLE PRACTICE.

Sweating, if practised too extensively, having reduced
a great portion of the fat by exhausting the system,
likewise reduces the muscles. The ability to deposit
fat does not exist so vigorously with old as with
young or middle-aged horses, and for this reason the
latter should never on any account be suffered to lost
their condition, unless illness be the unavoidable
cause. Having to a certain extent lost this faculty
a similar failing of the power to regenerate musch
ensues ; this remark is more applicable to hunters oi
steeple-chasers than race-horses, as the latter selclon
continue in training to an age at which this reductioi
of the system has established itself. The reasoning
powers of man must co-operate with the decrees of
nature to accomplish his desire of improving the phy
sical powers of the horse, in order to gain the benefi
of his services.

So much of the superiority of the horse depend
upon the state of the muscular system, that the con
struction and functions of the muscles require to bi
briefly explained. The muscles being the means b]
which all the movements of the body are performed
anything which tends to diminish their powers mus
of necessity produce an equivalent difficulty of action
The fibres of which the muscles are composed ar<!
placed in different directions; as, for instance, som<
run parallel with the tendons, others lie in an obliqur
direction, and some have the fibres running across oi:
intersecting each other. That which we call flesl
may be denominated the body of the muscle, the ex-
tremities of which, contracting into a finer substance

SWEATING. 113

are named tendons. The muscles are supplied with
an infinite number of blood-vessels and nerves, and
are also enveloped in a very delicate tissue or skin,
the interstices, as already observed, being places where
fat is deposited. They possess a striking and un-
accountable difference in their means of action ; some
having a voluntary motion, the origin of which it is
beyond the power of man to trace.

Although increase of bulk does not always denote
increase of power, — that is, does not add to the
limb made up of muscle, — yet the muscles, by con-
stant use, will become more thoroughly developed.
A healthy man or horse, who is least disposed to be
fat, appears generally most muscular, and indeed is
usually possessed of stronger and finer muscles than
those who are fat.

Having thus explained the inconveniences and
disadvantages arising from a superabundance of fat,
and at the same time the injurious results of ex-
cessive reductions, we proceed to show how the
practice of sweating is to be carried into effect.
Clothing — the quantity of which must be regu-
lated by the weather, the condition and also the
constitution of the animal, — is to be put on,
a greater portion being applied to those parts which
are most loaded, if any such irregularity exists ; for
example, if the neck and shoulders be gross and
heavy, which is frequently the case with stallions, an
extra quantity of clothing is required on those parts ;
or, if the neck be light, as often happens with mares
and geldings, it may be prudent not to use even a

I

114 STABLE PRACTICE.

single hood. For this purpose the best description is
that which is made of rugs, which will be more
minutely described in the chapter on Clothing. The
motives for selecting that material are its lightness,
warmth, non-absorbing qualities, — in consequence
of which latter property, a great portion of the per-
spiration, as it escapes from the horse, evaporates, —
and the ease with which it is subsequently dried.
The distance of ground to be gone over will vary.
If it be the first or second sweat, three miles or three
miles and a half will be quite sufficient, after which
four or even, sometimes, five miles may be the extent
of the performance. The night before sweating
it is advisable to diminish the allowance of hay ; in
fact, some greedy horses require the muzzle, but
this should be avoided if possible, as the frequent
use of that apparatus previously to any fatiguing
exercise, is very likely to cause restlessness and great
inconvenience when the animal is set, preparatory
to a race. After leaving the stable, half an hour's
walking exercise renders the horse in a fit state
to take a canter ; and at the termination of a similar
period, he may commence the sweat. Level ground,
or that which is nearly so, should be chosen for the
purpose. Ascending hills is too distressing, and de-
scending them shakes the fore legs. The pace at
starting should be slow, and gradually increased, but
not to exceed half speed. Some horses become so
cunning and idle, that great difficulty is experienced
in getting them along, and it becomes necessary to
have another to lead them, and at times to run head

SWEATING. 115

and head with them ; but it is a custom that should
be avoided if possible, as nothing tends more to de-
press the courage than bullying them when in the
least distressed by pace. If thus harassed, when other
horses come to run against them, the moment they
are, as it is technically called, " collered," and begin
to tire in a race, they will very probably " shut up,"
calculating, as no doubt they do, upon severe dis-
tress, similar to what they have previously experi-
enced. It must thus appear evident how essentially
necessary it is to avoid any act that will have that
effect.

A suitable place must be appointed for scraping
in : if the exercise ground be at a distance from the
stables, a rubbing-house is usually erected convenient
to the spot ; but if the stables be near at hand,
and are made, use of for this purpose, an unoccupied
box or stall should be selected in preference to the
apartment in which the horse is kept, because the
steam which arises will render the place damp, and,
for a time, unwholesome. In fine warm weather there
is no objection to scraping in the open air, but in a
sheltered situation ; indeed, I think it is preferable,
because the animal is less likely to experience faint-
ness, which will sometimes occur in a confined build-
ing. It must not be understood that I would sanction
a horse being scraped out of doors during a shower
of rain, or when the wind blows keenly from the
east ; in fact, if it can possibly be avoided, horses
should never be sweated in windy weather, for then
I 2

116 STABLE PRACTICE.

they never sweat kindly, and are very apt to break
out after they are shut up. Unless the necessity be
urgent, it is far better to postpone the operation till
the following or even the second day. Indeed, of the
two I would rather sweat a horse during mild rain
than when the wind is very boisterous.

The horse having gone the required distance, and
been pulled up, will be allowed to stand a few
minutes, and then taken quickly, in order that the
perspiration may not subside, to the place where he
is to be scraped. Having arrived there, additional
clothing should be thrown over him, to increase the
perspiration till it runs freely down the legs : during
this period he may be refreshed by washing his mouth
with water from a bottle, and having his lips and
nostrils cleaned with a sponge. The clothing is then
to be thrown forward from his quarters, which are to
be scraped. The implement with which this opera-
tion is performed should be used lightly, to avoid
irritating the temper. The girths are then to be
slackened, and the hoods removed. The person who
holds the horse's head rubs that part with a dry
rubber, while another commences scraping the neck
on the near side. That being accomplished, a boy
rubs the neck with dry wisps of hay, and the neck
on the off side is scraped, the mane having been
struck over by the scraper, as it is held up with the
fingers,— all hands being at work to get the head,
ears, and neck dry as quickly as possible. When that
is done, and the mane combed, a dry hood may be
put on, or not, according to the state of the animal

SWEATING. 117

and the weather. The saddle and the remainder of
the clothing must then be removed, and the body
scraped, and made dry as expeditiously as possible
with wisps and rubbers, after which the ordinary
dry clothing is to be put on, the mouth washed, and
the horse led about till he is fit to take a steady
gallop; after which, being walked till sufficiently
cool, he returns to his stable, where the regular rou-
tine of dressing is to be performed. The legs should
be fomented with warm water, and bandaged. Then
follow gruel of linseed, wheat flour, or oatmeal, a
bran mash, a small portion of hay, and the horse
should be shut up for five hours.

The importance of having a horse dressed expedi-
tiously and vigorously after he returns home from
sweating must not be overlooked, and two competent
persons should be employed for the purpose. Con-
siderable danger arises if the animal becomes chilled :
colds, inflammation of the lungs, swelled legs, and a
long list of catastrophes are to be apprehended.
During the time the head and neck are being dressed
a lock of sweet dry hay should be given : many per-
sons give it wet, which is objectionable for the
following;; reason : — The horse at this time bein^
naturally thirsty, and probably hungry, gives the wet
hay two or three twists in his mouth and swallows it,
by which means it passes into the stomach like a little
wisp ; whereas, when given dry, he is compelled to
masticate it, which excites a flow of saliva and more
effectually moistens the mouth than the wet hay. A

I 3

118 STABLE PEACTICE.

few go-downs of gruel may be given to facilitate the
object. Similar treatment should be observed with
a horse on his return to the stable after a race or
after hunting.

The temperature of the stable demands particular
attention when shut up. If it be too cold, inconve-
nience will ensue from the animal becoming chilled ;
and if there be not a sufficient quantity of fresh air,
it will be the cause of his breaking out. More
oxygen is required after severe exertions than on
ordinary occasions. Considerable nicety is therefore
indispensable in regulating the ventilation, so as to
avoid either extremes of heat or cold.

It is not customary to strip and dress a horse in
the afternoon of the day on which he has been sweat-
ing; nevertheless the legs should be well brushed,
sponged, and hand- rubbed, and the usual routine
punctually followed. But in the event of the horse
having "broken out," it will be advisable to wisp
him over. At this crisis it is exceedingly important
not to allow him to become chilled. There are three
principal causes for horses "breaking out" after
work: the first may be ascribed to irritability of
temper, the second to an impure condition of the
blood, and the third to being shut up in an over hot
stable, without a sufficiency of oxygen being admitted.
The first is the most difficult to contend against, and
can only be overcome by great care, kind treatment,
the most scrupulous avoidance of any disturbance,
noise, or event which may tend to alarm the animal,

SAVE ATI XG. 119

and so regulating the pace and distance when the
sweat is performed as not to occasion distress. The
second not unfrequently arises from the injudicious use
of diuretics, which not operating on the kidneys, as
intended, act as sudorifics. Many persons give nitre
in the gruel or mash on these occasions, with an idea
of cooling the system ; but it is a very mistaken prac-
tice. Spirit of nitric aether, or, as it is also called,
sweet spirits of nitre, is open to similar objections.
If anything appears necessary as a diuretic, Epsom
salts, in quantity from four to six ounces, may be
given ; as a corrective also of the secretions in the
alimentary tube its effects are often salutary. But
it must be remembered that after sweating the dis-
charge of urine will of necessity be less copious than
usual, so great a quantity of the fluid contained in the
body being carried off by perspiration. The impro-
priety, therefore, must be apparent of forcing cer-
tain organs with medicine when there is a deficiency
of material for them to act upon. The third cause
may be avoided by giving more air, unless the stable
is badly contrived, or the weather be intensely hot,
in which case it may be desirable to reduce the quan-
tity of clothing.

On the day after sweating, little, if anything, more
than walking exercise is necessary; and the process
will most probably require to be repeated with race-
horses at the termination of five, six, or seven days.
Some horses may require it more frequently, while
others cannot bear it so often ; and many require very

1 4

120 STABLE PRACTICE.

little or no clothing. These are circumstances which
can only be determined by observation, combined with
some study of "cause and effect." If the art of
training could be simplified by mathematical demon-
stration, like a rule-of- three sum, or any other opera-
tion in arithmetic, every village schoolmaster would
be capable of superintending the performance. All
horses cannot be trained alike ; that is, they cannot
all bear the same proportion of work to bring them
to the post in the best condition their respective con-
stitutions are capable of attaining. A horse may
come to the post very fit to run, although trained by
an ignorant and inexperienced person, but that is the
effect of chance. The ability of the trainer is deter-
mined by the generally good condition in which every
horse comes out.

These rules and observances relative to sweating
are equally applicable to hunters and race-horses;
but the former do not usually require so many sweats
as the latter. From four to six, commencing early
in September, will render most hunters quite fit to
go with hounds when the season commences. They
are not required to be drawn so fine as for racing ;
yet, considering the pace at which hounds run, the
condition of hunters should not be lightly treated.
If a hunter is overburdened with fat internally, or the
interstices of the muscles are overcharged, he will
not be able, from want of wind and muscular free-
dom, to undergo the exertions frequently required
from him. The functions of the lungs, the kidneys,

SWEATING. , 121

id the heart, being interrupted by an overabund-
ice, the horse is in constant danger when the system
highly excited by exertion ; neither will the circu-
ition recover its accustomed tranquillity in a reason-
ble time after a severe day's hunting. • Hence arises
ingestion of the lungs (so prevalent with old
iunters), obstructions of the kidneys, palpitations,
ad other affections of the heart.

22 STABLE PRACTICE,

CHAP. XII.

Importance of Trials. — Causes of Mistakes. — Participation ■
Trainers and Jockies. — Indifference respecting Trials. — Erro:
of Judgment. — Comparison between Trials and public Paces. -
Sceptical Opinions concerning Trials. — Touts. — Circumspectic
necessary. — .Trying Two Year Olds. — Preparation requisite.-,
Placing Horses. — Qualifications. — Weights. — Reference i
Handicaps. — Palse Conclusions. — Speed of aged Horses. — Pac .

— Boys not eligible to ride Trial Horses. — Sagacity of old Horse

— Contradictory Results. — Flat and billy Courses. — Inference :|
Work, but actual Trials necessary. — Case of Prejudice. — Cautk
against Touts. — Trial Saddles. — Caution with Boys. — Place
finishing Trial. — Skill of Touts. — Indiscretion. — Anecdote.

To ascertain a horse's qualifications before he
brought out to run in public is a subject of conside:
able importance, whether it be a young one that haj
never raced, or one of more mature age that has. I
the first case it is necessary to know the young one
pretensions to favour ; in the second to discover wh(
ther the horse has improved, retrograded, or reiuair
in his original form ; and by the opinions thus d(
rived of their respective powers, the propriety (
paying forfeit or starting will be decided, as well i
the propriety of backing him for a larger amount.

It must be remarked that the most extraordinar
mistakes are at times made in trials, arising fror
a variety of circumstances. A sanguine hope that

TRIALS.' 123

,'Oiuig animal which a man has reared, which he
las daily and hourly watched with the utmost assi-
luity and attention, which becomes frequently the
larling of his heart and the pet of his imagination,
i— such a creature, in his ardent imagination, must,
le conceives, possess, if not every perfection, at
east very superior powers, These feelings are
mown to exist, both by the trainer, the jockey, and
the stable-boy, and each, desirous to gratify their
Employer, uses every means to show off the pet to the
pest advantage. I will not even hint that anything
s done by either of the above-named persons for the
purpose of deception, but from a laudable endeavour
Eo please : thus the capabilities of the young animal
ire set forth in the most flattering terms, and the
owner, if he be not thoroughly experienced, deceives
pimself. These facts lead many persons to regard
private trials with considerable indifference, but that
Feeling must arise from the circumstance of their
paving been injudiciously conducted, and the numer-
ous events connected therewith not being thoroughly
Bcrutinised. To hold a principle cheap which is
/good in itself, although capable of misconstruction
from bad management, is an error of judgment. If
kvell conducted, trials are as certain tests of a horse's
powers to those who have the management of them
is public races. The health of animals influences
the result as much in one case as in the other, and
there are contingencies calculated to enable a horse
b run better on one day than another, and applicable
equally to public races and private trials ; hence pro-

124 STABLE PRACTICE.

prietors of race-horses ought not to hold the latter ii
contempt because the sequel on all occasions does no
turn out agreeably to their preconceived notions an<
their wishes.

The public have infinitely more reason to enter
tain doubtful opinions of trials from a combination o
events ; but the public have no right to any advan
tage that may arise from private trials. When the;
do obtain any knowledge of a horse's superiority o
inferiority, it must be gained " second hand," an<
generally unfairly. Therefore at best they have t
contend against any little mistakes that may have oc
currecl in the trial, the representation given, the sourc
from whence the representation is derived ; in othe
words, the motive of the informant ; and consider
ing, in ninety-nine cases in a hundred, that the resul
of the trial is surreptitiously acquired, and therefor
not to be depended upon, with a host of other circum
stances likely to lead them into errors, it is not sui j
prising that the most experienced portion of the racin.
public should entertain sceptical notions of wha
reaches their ears relative to private trials. Th
legion of touts which has of late years sprung ur
and who advertise their services in the sportin
journals, to give intelligence relative to race-horse
for " certain considerations," no doubt endeavour t
obtain information concerning trials for their owi
benefit ; but an owner of horses, or a trainer, must b
an especial flat if he ever allows one of these geniuse
to obtain any knowledge that is correct. Even ii
their presence, there are means of conducting trial

TRIALS. . 125

;>y which the most cunning would never discover
; the secret." This may be accomplished without
ractising any deception which the strictest moralist
ould impugn. I will presently explain how this can
e done. There is a marked distinction between wil-
ully misleading a person by a falsehood, and cir-
umspection in guarding the management of a trial so
hat intrusive bystanders, or concealed touts, cannot
orm a conclusion as to the result. When it is con-
rary to a man's interest to make it publicly known
hat he has a horse of great pretensions, there is no
aw, moral or legal, that can render it imperative for
im to do so.

j The two years olds, in the progress of their work,
lay have a trial as an initiatory proceeding, which,
Jthough it may afford some idea of their speed, can-
.ot be relied upon. To be satisfactory? every horse
hould be as carefully prepared as if he is intended
D run. There cannot be greater folly than for a
aan to allow himself to be deceived by flattering
rials ; by making excuses that the animals which are
tied are not fit. If they are in a fit state to run
nd are defeated, it is generally a conclusive proof
hat they are not good, in which case the only pru-
ient course is, to place them in company of a
jiediocre quality, or part with them without incur-
Jng additional expenses; unless, indeed, they may
je engaged in produce stakes, where they may meet
thers worse than themselves, or by chance have the
ood fortune to walk over.
Before it is possible to form a just estimate of the

126 STABLE PRACTICE.

merits of young horses, three or four trials must tak
place, and the important fact established whethe
speed or stoutness be the forte of the respective carj
didates for favour. The relative proportion of weight
at which horses of different ages ought to be trie
must necessarily depend on the time of the year, an
may readily be determined by reference to the Racin
Calendar. The best criterion will be formed by tin
weight which the trial horse may have carried in
popular handicap, or which may be appointed fc
him to carry ; taking that as a standard, and regi
lating the weights on the young ones in proportion.
Notwithstanding there may be many other causr
which lead to false conclusions respecting trials, tl:
following may be considered the most general, ar
should be enumerated in order to be avoided. ]
the first place, it frequently happens that the tri;
horse has lost his speed. It is a very common cm
that aged horses, as they improve in stoutnes
lose their speed, and thus, single-handed, do n(
furnish trials for young ones. Neglecting to mat !
the pace sufficiently strong is another event calci
lated to give the juveniles a chance. Having a ba
pace to commence with, a moderate young one wi
beat a tolerably good old one. It not unfrequentl
happens that a boy is put up to ride the trial hors<
and that jockies are employed to ride the youn!
ones ; this is just reversing the proper order, the boi
being engaged to perform a duty which requires tli
most experience, — that of making " the running.
Independently of this, many old horses will n(

TRIALS. 127

[in kindly on the ground whereon they take their
rercise.

As an example of the mistakes which are occa-
jonally made in trials, I may state that some years
nee, a trainer, of some notoriety at. Newmarket,
ied three two years old fillies three times, with a
afferent result each time. "When they came out to
an (for they all started in the same race), the one
Inch was held in the least estimation proved to be
le winner, and her subsequent running proved her
) be the best of the lot.

The nature of the course on which a horse can run
the greatest advantage is a point which ought to
3 ascertained, as there are many that can run several
bunds better on a flat than on a hilly course, and
ice versa. It is impossible to know how to place
lem most satisfactorily without having established
lis point. Some little judgment may be formed in
ae common routine of exercise, but that is not to be
plied upon. A trainer may have an idea of the
Merits of an animal in his work, which wTill assist
im greatly, if he makes proper use of his opinion,
rhen he comes to try that animal; but it should
ways be held imperative to ascertain by actual
rials, unbiassed and unprejudiced, what are the most
!3rtain points on which a horse wrill run most suc-
essfully. Owners of race-horses and trainers are
-equently satisfied if the result of a trial leads them
) suppose that a horse has some running about him,
dthout investigating enough to decide what his best
ndowments may be. Many years ago I purchased

128 STABLE PEACTICE.

a five years old horse, and left him in the care of tl
trainer who had had the management of him from tr.
time he was a two years old. The horse's runnin
had been very moderate ; he had frequently bee
second, but very seldom first. Shortly after I becan
possessed of him I rode him myself, and, accordir
to my trainer's advice, waited with him, when he w:
beaten easily; but fortunately the race was heats, ar
at the second attempt I made running with , hir j
which changed the result ; for the third heat I r
peated the running, and won that still more easi'
than the second. This misconception of the train'
arose from two causes : he tried the horse when tv
years old, but never afterwards, and the result of tl
trial led him to suppose that the- speed of the cc
was his forte. Being a prejudiced man he nev
changed his opinion. In the second place, the hor
no doubt improved in stamina and stoutness as 1 jl
gained maturity; and had it not been for the heal
which enabled me to try a different way of runnii
from what had ever been adopted before, I should, : J
all probability, have remained in ignorance how ml
horse could be made use of to the best advantage.

In order to avoid letting touts or bystanders in ;:
the secrets of trials, there are two ways of manag
ment. The saddles employed for the purpose mu
be made to vary very considerably in their respectr
weights, and a small one, having the appearance of f|
three or four pounds saddle should be made to wei°
a stone or upwards ; a seven pounds saddle-cloth wi
assist in the artifice. A large saddle, made as light i

TRIALS, 129

possible, will not exceed five pounds, although it will
have the appearance of weighing fourteen. By this
means even the jockies who may be engaged, are, if
necessary, kept in ignorance of the weights they ride,
by weighing them without their saddles ; and with
boys, if they are put up, it is a ruse invariably to be
adopted, for they must be far more discreet than such
juveniles usually are, if they do not confide the secret
to some of their companions, when, by the agency of
telegraphic information, it is a miracle if the in-
telligence is not spread half over the kingdom in
a few hours. The inquisitive intentions of strangers
will also be frustrated, by directing the jockies, or
boys, to gallop on some distance beyond the point
where the trial actually terminates, over which
ground the winner should not be allowed to go first.
Touts and watchers of horses are of course "down to
'every move ;" they are most of them very skilful in
their calling, and for that reason every change of
tactics that can be devised must be brought into
play. If the true result of a trial does gain
publicity, it arises from some indiscretion or mis-
management on the part of the person who con-
ducts it.

Apropos of indiscretion, a certain trainer of much
belebrity, in whose stables many great favourites for
Various Derbys and St. Legers have been tutored,
formed an acquaintance with a lady in the gay
metropolis. Being desirous of winning and main-
taining her good graces, he was wont to inform her
confidentially — never dreaming that such intelligence

K

130 • STABLE PRACTICE.

would be turned to account — upon which of the horses
under his care she could most safely bet her dozen
pairs of gloves. It happened, however, that a young
gentleman who frequented Tattersalls' also became
acquainted with the fair innamorata ; and observing
that her delicate hands were unusually well provided
with unsullied kids, upon inquiry discovered she had
won a great number by betting on horses whose names
she mentioned. This was too favourable a chance not
to be turned to good account ; and, through the
medium of the unconscious enslaver of the hearts of \
men, the future secrets of the stable were elicited from
the unguarded trainer, when, on several occasions, it i
was discovered some person had got his money on be- j
fore the stable, and, of course, at a better price. This
scheme prospered wonderfully, but at length it was
discovered. The trap, which had already been well
baited, was set; that is, the office was given to back
the wrong horse, and bet against the right one; the'
event came oif satisfactorily to the trainer, and the
hero of the ladies' boudoir has never since visited
Tattersalls'.

Without intending to invest the practice of timing
horses with more importance than it deserves, if
accurately noted, it may be made use of in trials
with good effect. I use the expression accurately
noted advisedly, from having more than once heard
of horses running trials, specified distances, in much
less time than they ever afterwards ran in public.
By such mistakes grave disappointments are likely to
ensue. The utility of this measure is to ascertain if

TRIALS. 131

the pace has been true throughout ; and to do so
satisfactorily, the exact measurement of the ground
must be known, not guessed at, and which latter
problematical question, I apprehend, led to the errors
already mentioned. The state of the* turf must also
be taken into consideration.

The following table will afford a criterion of the
time occupied by horses, of fair repute, in running
the respective distances with the turf in good order.
I have confined it to the accounts taken of races
at Xewmarket, because the respective lengths of
the courses there are more accurately known than
any others, although I must observe there is some
doubt as to the exact measurement of some of
those. Reference to the average rate of speed per
second will show that timing trials unaccompanied
by the test of horses running against each other
cannot be relied upon. Unless a race, or trial, be
very accurately timed, it leads to much disappoint-
ment ; a mistake of only two seconds will occasion
a deviation varying from twenty-seven to thirty-
five yards, — nine to twelve lengths, - — much too
great a distance when a conclusive opinion is to be
formed of a horse's qualifications. Furthermore, it
must be observed, that if two or three persons
attempt to time a race, there will frequently occur a
discrepancy in their calculations ; it follows that errors
are likely to prevail if the persons who attempt it are
not exceedingly well practised in the duty.

The reports that Eclipse and Flying Childers ran
a mile in a minute are unworthy of credence, for it is

K 2

132

STABLE PRACTICE.

nearly double the pace that horses of the present clay-
can go, and they are now bred more for speed than
they were in the ages of the aforesaid worthies. The
mistake must have originated in an attempt to time
them over a short distance of ground, and coming to
a conclusion that, according to their supposed rate of
going that short distance, by continuing at the same
pace it would equal a mile in a minute.

TIME TABLE AT NEWMARKET.

Course.

Distance.

T

me.

Age.

AVeight.

Average Rate
per Second.

M. F.

Y.

M.

s.

Y.

ST.

LB.

Y. F. IN.

Round Course

3 4

1S7

1?

33

1G

4
5

8
11

9

0

13 2 10

14 1 6

Last three Miles of B. C. -

3 0

45

U

59
31

4

2

7
4

10
2

14 2 6
13 1 0

Ditch In

2 0

97

3

59

5

8

7

15 0 4

Two middle Miles -

1 7

125

3

40

4

8

7

15 1 9

Clermoat Course -

1 5

217

3

11

3

5

9

16 1 1

Audley End -

1 6

0

3

38

4

8

9

15 1 2

Across the Flat - •

1 2

24

{I

20
24

3
3

7

8

4

15 2 7

15 0 11

Cambridgeshire Course

1 1

8

2

2

3

5

13

16 0 10

Rowley Mile

1 0

1

l\

51

48

3
3

8
8

1
7

15 2 7

16 0 11

Abingdon Mile

7

211

1

49

5

9

2

16 0 2

Ditch Mile -

7

178

[i

40
49

3

Aged

8
8

7
10

17 0 1
15 2 0

Criterion -

5

184

1

20

2

8

3

16 0 1

Two Years' Old Course

5

136

1

9

2

8

4

17 2 8

Last half of Abingdon Mile

3

215|

[

50
55

3
3

7
8

10
10

17 1 2
15 2 8

Thus it will be seen that the average rate of speed
per second, over courses varying in distance from
3 miles 4 furlongs and 187 yards, to 3 furlongs
215^ yards, is 15 yards 2 feet 2 inches and a frac-
tion.

133

CHAP. XIII.

MANAGEMENT OF THE LEGS AND FEET.

Difficulty of training Horses with bad Legs and Feet. — Hunters. —
Causes, Remedies, and restorative Measures. — The back Sinews,
and Treatment of them. — Caution. — Injurious Effects of hard
Ground. — Alternative. — Comparison between Race-horses and
Hunters. — Remedy. — Rest sometimes imperative. — Treatment
after the Sinews have given way. — Recipe. — Sore Shins. — Relief.

— Cooling Applications, and Mode of applying them. — Arnaca.

— Keeping Horses at Work. — Stimulants. — Biniodide of Mer-
cury.— Injuries to which Hunters are liable. — Fomentations. —
Bandages. — Blows. — Thorns. — Poultices. — Stubs. — Cold
Water. — Over-reaches. — The Pastern Joints. — Synovia, its
Use. — The Hind Legs. — Cracked Heels. — Ointments. — Recipe
for cracked Heels. — Preventive Agency of Food and Exercise. —
Case in point. — : Bruises of the Soles. — No Protection afforded to
the Soles of the Feet by Plates. — Fomenting the Feet. — Tar
Ointment. — Precaution. — Plating. — Texture of the Feet, and
Treatment. — Bad Feet. — Good Feet. —Consequences of Neglect.

— Observances after Removal of Shoes. — Caution to Smiths.

There is no portion of the frame that occasions the
trainer so much perplexity as the legs and feet of
certain horses. Such is their peculiar formation, that
: when put to work they will baffle the care and judg-
) ment of the most experienced ; in defiance of every
precaution they will give way. This is the more
vexatious, as it happens very frequently with horses
endowed in other respects with uncommon powers.
The state of the legs is a source of daily anxiety and
attention. Some horses evince symptoms of breaking

K 3

134 STABLE PRACTICE.

down in the back sinews, others of sore shins ; and
with many, the form of the limbs is such that they
constantly hit the inside of one leg with the oppo-
site foot so violently as to produce inflammation.
Neither is the hunting groom free from these troubles,
although they generally arise from different causes.
It is not a very common occurrence for hunters to
break down, or to have sore shins; but they are
subject to injuries from blows inflicted in various
ways, and likewise from thorns, stubs, and stakes.

The first consideration to be brought under notice
is the cause, with a view, as far as possible, of alle-
viating it : the second, the remedies best calculated
to strengthen the parts, keep them cool, and thereby
postpone the catastrophe ; the third, the means of
restoring the injured parts when the animals are nc j
longer capable of performing their work.

Those horses are the most liable to give way in their
back sinews when the formation of their legs is such |
that they stand back on their knees ; the only remedy
for which is, to keep their heels as strong as can be
prudently allowed, — a precaution, however, which
must not lead to any very sanguine hopes. Moreover. |
it must be done with great care and by degrees ; for
if the heels be allowed to grow too luxuriantly, 01
the shoe be made thick at the heel, with the intention
of relieving the back sinew, it will throw the nume-
rous small bones, joints, and ligaments, of which the
foot and pastern is composed, quite out of order, and,
thereby produce lameness as incurable as the evil
which it is intended to avert. Keeping the legs as
cool as possible, and using every means to brace

MANAGEMENT OF THE LEGS AND FEET. 135

them, may be expected to produce some benefit ; but
with all the care human ingenuity can devise, it is
not possible to give those horses which show unmis-
takeable indications of bad sinews, sufficient work to
bring them to the post in the superior form their con-
stitutions would admit of if their limbs were differ-
ently formed. When the ground on which horses
are worked, or on which they run, becomes very
hard, danger is always at hand from the concussion
which exists. Thus it will be seen that the evils are
not within the control of human influence; the only
alternative, therefore, is to give these animals as
little work as can be deemed calculated to develop
their powers to the utmost extent their legs will
bear, taking advantage of those times when the
ground is in the most favourable order, and never
letting them go too fast, for it is when they are ex-
tended that the greatest danger is to be apprehended.
In fact, that is the reason why hunters so seldom
break down compared with race-horses, because the
former are seldom put to the utmost extent of their
speed — at all events, over any distance of ground ;
and thus many horses which cannot bear the ordeal
of the training stables, with care will last for years
in the hunting field. When the muscles and tendons
have been subjected to the utmost degree of exten-
sion which their combined elasticity will permit, the
tendons become, by so much exertion, so inflamed
as often to produce incurable lameness. When the
sheath of the tendon is highly inflamed, and appears
like a bow standing back from its natural position,

K 4

136 STABLE PFwACTICE.

there is very little hope that the animal will be able
to bear sufficient work to enable him to race.

On the first appearance of any inflammation in the
sheath of the tendon, temporary rest is imperative,
with cooling applications to the part affected ; as an
auxiliary, and, at the same time, to prevent the animal
from becoming too lusty, a dose of physic may be given
advantageously. If these remedies do not succeed,
there is little chance of the animal's success on the
turf; unless a lengthened term of rest restores the
limb to a sound condition. Whether the experiment
is justifiable must depend on a variety of circumstances
which it would be impossible to suggest. A horse
or mare descended from good blood, having done
some service on the course, may be more valuable in
the stud than on the turf, taking into consideration
the chances of not beins: able to win which the
malady may entail.

When such an unfortunate event as a break down
has occurred, the first course to be adopted is the
immersion of the leg in warm water ; for which pur-
pose a fomenting bucket is the most convenient
apparatus ; but if that is not at hand, an ordinary
stable bucket must suffice, and the warm water con-
veyed to the part by means of sponges, or thick
flannels. As the poor animals suffer much pain on
these occasions, the greatest care and tenderness is
requisite ; but the fomentation must be unremittingly
persevered with, — in fact, it ought to be continued
throughout the first night ; but if that is not done, a
poultice becomes necessary, — to which there is an

MANAGEMENT OF THE LEGS AND FEET. 137

objection, from the difficulty experienced in keeping
t in the proper place, as the weight of it causes it
o slip down. The poultice may be formed with
,)ran made up with warm water, or boiled turnips,
ivhicli are preferable if the accident" occurs at a
•eason of the year when those esculents are pro-
curable. A dose of physic will materially assist in
ubduing the inflammation ; and, in some cases,
oleeding may be recommended. After the operation
tf the physic has subsided, cooling remedies are to
De adopted. In most cases firing is eventually con-
idered necessary ; but as that operation comes under
he immediate practice of the veterinary surgeon, it
s unnecessary to introduce any comments upon the
oerformance or the time when it is proper ; but as
there are cases in which it may be dispensed with,
>y repeated applications of blisters, especially of
'hose which are composed of biniodide of mercury,
bvery effort of that kind must be tried before the
severe and disfiguring agency of the iron is resorted
o. The following formula will be found serviceable
n such cases : —

Biniodide of mercury 1 drachm. 1 AT.

T o^.l o f Mix.

.Lard - - - 2 ounces. J
|\. sufficient quantity to be rubbed on the part once
L day, and repeated till a scurf appears. This must
jiever be applied till every symptom of inflammation
jias been reduced ; a caution to be observed with all
dnds of blisters.

As the formation of the leg already described has
. tendency, to cause horses to give way in their back

138 STABLE PRACTICE.

sinews, the reverse — that is, those which stand ove
at their knees — are most subject to the perplexing
torment known as sore shins. Not, let me remark
but that some horses with the most perfectly formei
legs will occasionally be affected with either malady
particularly if the ground on which they take thei
work is dry and hard. In those cases, concussio
will produce the inconvenience now under con
sideration. Peculiarity of action is another cause
also frequently galloping against a severe hill. 1
sore shin is -occasioned by inflammation of the sine^
which passes down the front part of the cannon bon
— the office of which is to lift and extend the foot
from its proximity to the bone itself, the inflanc
mation extends sympathetically to the periosteum,
delicate and extremely sensitive membrane, supplie
with remarkably minute vessels, which, on that a<
count, when they are once disordered, general!
create much trouble in restoring them to their propc
tone and action. Some relief may be obtained b
lowering the heels, so that the sinew in question ma
be subject to the least possible amount of extension
and, like the contrary measure proposed for wea
back sinews, may be termed a mechanical alternated
which cannot be relied upon as the only remed;
Rest, as in all other cases when inflammation pr<|
vails, is the grand panacea ; but as that is frequent!
impossible, the only good practice, under such circun
stances, is to introduce such means of relief as aij
calculated to allay the violence of the inflammatioi;
The pressure arising from bandages increases tl

MANAGEMENT OF THE LEGS AND FEET. 139

vil ; they must not, therefore, be used as agents for
he application of any of the cooling lotions which
nay be selected. A linen cloth or rubber, folded to
i convenient size, and tied on above the knee, so as
o fall loosely down the front of the leg, constantly
aturated with a cooling mixture, is the most effi-
acious means of reducing the inflammation. The
incture of arnaca, in the proportion of one ounce to
light of water, may be used advantageously as a
lotion; in which case, the shin should be bathed
ivith it twice a day, having a linen cloth, which has
>een dipped in cold water, kept constantly on the
>art, as before recommended. By this mode of
reatment, horses may sometimes be kept on in their
Ivork so as to enable them to run out an engage-
nent. But it will depend upon the proximity of the
ime when a horse is required to run, and that of the
iore shin making its appearance, whether it is most
Advisable to keep him on in work or indulge him till
he malady is overcome. In either case, as soon as
he inflammation is subdued, the use of stimulants
becomes necessary, in order to disperse the effusion
which has taken place in the periosteum ; because if
hat be neglected, the part will eventually become
bssified, from which state it can never be restored.
|ro promote this cure, mild stimulants are the most
tatisfactory, as they admit of frequent repetitions.
|A. small quantity of the oil, or the vinegar of can-
charides, may be employed ; at the same time, for all
mch purposes, the biniodide of mercury appears to
pe the most effectual. If made in the proportion of

140 STABLE PRACTICE.

one drachm of biniodide of mercury to three ounce;
of lard, a small quantity being rubbed on daily til
a scurf has arisen, it will generally be followed b]
beneficial results ; after the scurf comes off it ma]
be repeated in case the enlargement is not reduced
This, it will be seen, is the same preparation as tin ■
one recommended at page 137., but rendered milde
by an additional proportion of lard.

The suspensory ligaments which pass down botlj
sides of the legs, are also subject to inflammation
Two predisposing causes may be named, one occa)
sioned by blows, the other arises from the formatioi i
of the leg, the first of which may be obviated by th \
use of boots or bandages to be worn at exercise ; fo \
the second there is no alternative, beyond the ver;
trivial one which may be expected from a moderat ,
thickening of the shoe on the side on which the evi
appears. The utmost caution is necessary to kee; i
the part as cool as possible, and the remedies alread;
recommended for weak sinews and sore shins are ap
plicable.

The injuries to which the legs and feet of hunter |
are most subject, are occasioned by bruises, stubs
thorns, and over-reaches. Hunters experience mam
blows by striking against stakes, timber, stone walls
and such like obstructions, although their riders d<j
not always discover the accidents at the time the]
happen. The excitement which prevails, and the higl
courage of the animals, very often prevents theiJ
giving any evidence of such catastrophes, but unmis ;
takeable symptoms will be discovered when they re

MANAGEMENT OF THE LEGS AND FEET. 141

jrn to the stables, if not on their road home, Wounds
om stubs, thorns, and over-reaches occur under
milar circumstances. The most advisable and the
feually adopted practice of fomenting the legs in
arm water is the best remedy for all these injuries ;
pd after the legs have been thoroughly cleaned by
he ablution, a careful search should be made to as-
brtain if any, and what, accident may have taken place,
rhe application of flannel bandages very generally
hd very properly follows the fomentation, in which
kse they should be put on quite loose, that they may
bt have the effect of forcing any thorns deeper into
he part; their intention is merely to keep up the
jrculation, and absorb the moisture during the time
F dressing, when they should be taken off. Any
Htiries will then most probably give evidence of
heir existence if they have not been previously dis-
bvered. Blows or bruises require continued fomen-
Itions, which are advantageously succeeded by poul-
bes, and subsequently by cooling remedies. If
tare be any thorns, they should if possible be care-
Illy extracted with a pair of tweezers. It is im-
prtant that the points of the thorns be examined
I ascertain if they be broken off, or if any of
le bark or other particles of the intruding sub-
lances remain behind; in which cases, as also in
ose where the thorns cannot be removed, poul-
3es are necessary. Not un frequently it happens
iat the parts swell, by which the heads of thorns
icome so buried that it is impossible to remove

142 STABLE TRACTICE.

them until the enlargement is reduced; and thorn
will often remain in without occasioning any incon
venience. The legs of old hunters when examine
after death will frequently be found to have man
thorns in them. Stubs in general occasion more ex
tensive lacerated wounds. It is necessary to ascertair
as soon as possible, if any portion of a stub remain
in the wound ; in which case, it must be removed b
operative means, if possible ; otherwise recourse mus
be had to poultices. In these cases, great benef
will be found from the use of cold wTater very fr(
quently applied with a sponge, and this will gen<
rally effect a cure without the assistance of any oth(
measures. The contusion which usually accompani<
an over-reach occasions much inflammation, and consi
quent soreness. There is, very often, a portion of tl
skin torn, the remainder of which requires to be ci
away, as it is perfectly certain it will not reunite. Tl
treatment recommended for other injuries, name,
fomentations, may be adopted in the first instance
but on the following day the refrigerating effects <
cold water will materially facilitate a restoration ■
soundness.

Much heat, generally accompanied with enlarg
ment, is sometimes found to exist in the pasteij
joints, when horses have been doing a considerab
portion of work, especially if the ground be bar
These joints, like all others, are supplied with synjj
via, an oily kind of fluid, intended to lubricate tlj
parts, and prevent attrition. In these cases, tlfl
synovia is not secreted in sufficient quantities; or,:j

MANAGEMENT OF THE LEGS AND FEET. 143

tlicr words, it is not equivalent to the attrition
scasioned by the work ; and as the secretion of
arious fluids is not similarly abundant in all animals,
will readily be understood why they cannot all
□dure the same proportion of work without evincing
lese symptoms. Horses, more particularly aged
aes, after having performed much labour when thus
[flicted, generally give unequivocal notice of this
eficiency, by a stiffness of action most observable
hen first brought out of the stable. Sometimes it
ill go off when the circulation is excited ; in some
ises, they will continue to go short in their gallop.
Nothing without rest will restore the limbs to their
rimitive freedom ; and even that cannot be reason-
}ly expected after a great excess of work. Nature,
i these cases, demands a sacrifice ; and if not timely
fered, the animals so affected will soon become use-
ss, — at least, for racing purposes. With rest must
e combined cooling remedies, and eventually stimu-
ints, to rouse the absorbent vessels to increased
ption.

I With the exception of the hocks, the hind legs are
ss susceptible of injury than the fore ones. Spavins
id curbs are so universally known as to require no
jiinute description ; the former, however, are some-
jmes so trifling in size as to require much discrimi-
jation to decide upon their existence, although the
pimal gives unequivocal tokens of lameness. In their
iifant state they may, perhaps, be cured by repeated
-isters, composed of cantharides or the biniodide of
ercury, previously recommended. These failing,

144 STABLE PRACTICE.

the actual cautery is the only alternative, and evei
that is not in all cases successful.

Many horses suffer seriously from cracked heels
and appear to be most susceptible during the las
preparation, just when they are in a fit state to rur
Various causes can be assigned for their appeal
ance ; one of which is, the highly excited state c
the body, when the superabundant humours, flowin
into the legs, must have a medium of escape. Th
perspiration lodging in the heels, without bein
carefully cleansed, will also produce them. The
will often break out in the heels of hunters an
other horses used for ordinary work, from the hai
being cut away. Carefully washing them wit
warm water and soap, and the application of a coo
ing emollient ointment, generally effects a cur<
There are many ointments adapted for this purposi
each of which has its advocates; as, for example
camphorated spermaceti ointment, mercurial oinl
ment, and white lead ointment, — the latter of whic
has an additional property over the others, from il
power of shielding the part from dirt. Poultices ar
sometimes required to assist the cure ; but when th
heels get into that condition, it may generally b
inferred that due care has not been observed to pre
vent it, unless the horse is in a very foul state c
body, and in want of physic. The following appli
cation I have found very effective ; it combines th
advantages of a poultice with ingredients calculate'
to promote a cure, and will serve as a dressing thre
or four times : —

MANAGEMENT OF THE LEGS AND FEET. 145

For Cracked Heels.

Oatmeal * pint. "] To be made into a cataplasm, and fas-

Honey and lard (each) \ lb. J- tened on the heel with a piece of linen.
Alum 2 ounces. J This is sufficient for two heels.

Having noticed the different parts of the le«\s
which are most susceptible of inflammatory ailments,
and enumerated individually the relative causes
which superinduce certain parts to become disordered,
It is here necessary to introduce a few words on the
general treatment conducive to the prevention of such
serious defects. I have, in the " Stud Farm " and
other parts of this work, endeavoured to impress my
readers with the advantages arising from strict atten-
tion to the selection of those kinds of food, for youno-
stock, which have a tendency to produce the firmest
texture of muscle and sinew, as that will, in a great
measure, operate in averting many of the evils which
have been treated upon in this chapter ; and as food
has precisely the same effect upon the ligaments,
tendons, and muscles in one part of the body as
another, the importance to be attached to this hint
will be clearly understood. Every person who has
watched the condition of horses when they are fed
and worked with green food in the summer, must be
aware of the effect it has upon them, by the effusions
which are invariably visible in the legs. This is
occasioned by the peculiar quality of the food, which
forms an overabundant supply of bad blood. Surely
ei moment's reflection will operate as a warning to
refrain from giving green, succulent food to horses
L

146 STABLE PRACTICE.

when they are required to perform active labour.
At the same time, it must be remembered that food
alone will not accomplish these favourable results,
unless it be assisted with exercise proportioned to
the as;e and strength of the animals. I have known
some breeders of racing stock keep their yearlings
and two year olds on the very best kinds of food,
without giving them any exercise whatever beyond
the precincts of a loose box and a very small yard.
These animals scarcely bore the process of breaking ;
and, when put into training, gave way in some part
or parts most essential to their physical powers. An
advocate of the principle which I must strongly con-
demn, told me several years since, that he should not
rest contented until he had won a Derby with a colt
treated according to his views. He has, since then,
bred a great many, most of which have been trained,
but not one of them has been able to win the most
insignificant weight for age stake.

Horses, wThen taking their exercise, but more fre-
quently when running, are liable to bruise the soles
of their feet, particularly when the ground is hard,
or a stone happens to be in their path. The plates
used for racing present no protection whatever in
the way of cover to the soles of the feet ; and the
ordinary shoes, unless made wTider in the web and
heavier than is desirable, leave a great portion of'
the soles uncovered. The effect of a bruise on the
foot, unless it be severe, will not always occasion
perceptible lameness, though it will create a degree
of soreness and heat, which generally increases,
unless proper remedies are made use of to counteract

MANAGEMENT OF THE LEGS AND FEET. 147

the mischief; and there is frequently a difficulty in
determining immediately when such accidents have
occurred, until a repetition has taken place, or the
inflammatory action produces unequivocal evidence.
When there is reason to imagine that the foot has
Ibeen bruised, fomentations of warm water must be
frequently made use of; and a light shoe, with as
irauch covering as can be conveniently used, will be a
imeans of protecting the part from a repetition of the
injury. For the sake of rendering the sole more
jtough, and to promote its growth, the tar ointment,
for which a recipe is given at page 92. of the " Stud
Farm," should be applied daily, or every alternate
pay. The softest ground should, in such cases, be
selected for exercise, and great care taken to remove
ithe dirt from between the web of the shoe and the
isole of the foot when the animal returns to the
stable, — a precaution which should at all times be
taken, but more especially under these circumstances.
When horses are observed to go tenderly upon their
feet, as if they were treading upon hot bricks, there
is reason to suspect that repeated bruises or concus-
sion has occasioned inflammation, or, probably, the
shoes may be nailed on too firmly ; but, whatever
jthe cause may be, it is highly necessary to institute
|an investigation, remove the evil, and apply a remedy
suitable to the case.

The necessity for substituting plates in the place
of the ordinary shoes, when horses are about to run,
entails a vast amount of wear and tear to the feet of
race-horses, which, unfortunately, are usually of a

L 2

148 STABLE PRACTICE.

delicate texture. This circumstance renders it the
more imperative to adopt every means of keeping
them in the best order their respective properties
admit. The nature or texture of the feet varies so
essentially in different horses, that the treatment
applicable in some cases would be very detrimental
in others. For example, those feet, the soles and
hoofs of which are very thin, require but little if any
moisture, because they are already too soft ; these
soles are not sufficiently strong to protect the sensitive
part of the foot. The frequent use of the tar oint-
ment, and stopping with pads of dry tow, will pre-
serve such feet in the best order. On the other
hand, those feet which secrete a great proportion oi
sole and crust demand the assistance of moisture,
which is most conveniently supplied to the soles with
pads of tow saturated with water, to which a small
quantity of salt may be added with good effect. The
shoes should be frequently removed in order to pan
away so much of the soles as to admit of pliability ;
and if the crust or hoof is overabundant, it is some-
times advisable to reduce it moderately with the rasp ;
but this operation is to be performed with caution
In this respect, likewise, the two kinds of feet demanc
opposite modes of treatment. The first-named car
scarcely have their shoes removed too seldom ; anc
neither the sole nor the crust can bear any reduction
beyond that of clearing away the ragged portions
The feet already mentioned may be denominated bac
feet, possessing opposite characters ;. and good fee1
are the happy medium between the two extremes
the healthv condition of which will generally b<

MANAGEMENT OF THE LEGS AND FEET. 149

maintained by treatment equivalent to that medium.
Hence, when new shoes are applied, old ones re-
moved, or plates put on, the soles require only to be
reduced to a moderate extent, — the crust or quarters
seldom if ever demanding the use of "the rasp, — and
occasional dressing with the tar ointment, not for-
getting, however, the advantages which will be de-
rived from stopping with tow, especially after sweat-
ing or strong galloping exercise. Hunters should
invariably have their feet stopped on the night after
[hunting. In all cases, frequent inspections of the
[feet should be made, when their appearance will
[indicate the treatment they require. The best
feet will soon get out of order if neglected; while
those which are naturally very indifferent, may be
ikept fit for service by proper attention. After the
shoes have been removed, the feet should be im-
mediately immersed in water, — to the depth of
about two inches, — whereby a slight incrustation of
rust is produced between the nails and the holes in
the shoes, in case there is any space for such an
action to take place, by which means the nails be-
come more firmly attached to the shoe, and there-
fore less liable to cause the crust to break away. It
is also very requisite to caution the smith not to
drive the nails too hard, — a custom which many
country workmen adopt with hunters, in order, as
they fancy, to prevent the shoes from being pulled
off; an effect which it may have in some cases : but it
more frequently produces a more serious result —
that of laming the animal so treated.

L 3

50 STABLE PRACTICE.

CHAP. XIV

The Importance of good Shoeing. — Perceptible Improvement in
the Art. — Navicular Lameness less frequent. — Causes. — Heavy
Shoes deprecated. — Effects of Horses slipping. — Casualties in the
Hunting Field from slipping. — Descriptions of Shoes calculated to
prevent Horses, from slipping. — Shoes for the hind Feet. — Re-
marks on Shoes. — Corns. — Racing Plates. — Plating Steeple- '
chasers. — Light Shoes recommended.

The very great importance of the healthy condition
of the feet, in their connection with the shoes, renders
it necessary for every person concerned in the ma-
nagement of horses, or interested in the use of them,
to devote some attention to this subject The
soundest and the strongest feet may be easily injured
by bad shoeing ; but it speaks well for the march of
improvement that has taken place within the last
quarter of a century, that there are now so few
horses in any class afflicted with painful and in-
curable lameness from affections of the navicular
bone. There are several causes to which the alle-
viation of the disorder may be attributed; namely,
the improvement of the roads, a better method
of treating the feet generally, and a consider-
able advancement in the art of shoeing. Many
horses become lame in their feet when they are put
to work, from causes which have their origin in

SHOEING. 151

neglect at an earlier period of their lives, when inci-
pient disorganisation is established ; but not being so
extensive as to render them lame at the time, no
notice is taken of it till work produces unequivocal
testimony of its presence.

An unnecessary weight of metal is an incumbrance
from which all horses ought to be exonerated ; race-
I horses and hunters more especially. A heavy shoe
is frequently the cause of a blow on the leg from the
opposite foot. Horses in training, as they seldom
imove far except on the turf, cannot require such
•unnecessary appendages. Any description of shoe
which will prevent horses from slipping in their
i gallop is to be recommended. Every person gifted
i with ordinary observation, who has been accustomed
to ride horses at a fast pace, whether it be in racing,
t hunting, or training, must have experienced the ex-
ertions made by them to avoid slipping, or rather to
recover themselves after such a casualty has happened.
The racing plate is as well adapted to prevent this as
I imagine any form cr construction of equal lightness
can be ; nevertheless, on some kinds of soil, after a
certain quantity of rain, horses must encounter that
difficulty, because a portion of the earth adheres to
the feet. A similar consequence takes place in the
hunting field, but the land is not always in that state ;
and such are the varieties of soil, that you may
ride a given distance over a country where it is in
such a greasy state that your horse can scarcely
maintain his foothold, and in the next field find it per-
fectly sound and secure. The same argument is good

L 4

152 STABLE PRACTICE.

with horses at exercise. A superior horseman may,
to a limited extent, by holding his horse well together,
assist the animal when in the act of slipping ; but as
race-horses are usually ridden, at their exercise, by
boys, who do not possess the knowledge or power to
afford them any assistance, the danger arising from
such casualties is more extensive. What can exceed
the anxiety of a trainer, when he has a horse engaged
in an important race, during the time he is perform-
ing his last sweats and gallops, fearful that every j
stride the animal makes he may lame himself, — an
accident which frequently occurs from slipping. Not
only are the feet in constant danger of sustaining in-
juries, but every muscle and sinew connected with
the horse's action is in constant jeopardy. Some
horses are much more liable to slip, when galloping,
than others ; of course that is in consequence of
peculiarity in their action ; and many such are ex-
ceedingly nervous and timid. They indicate their i
fear by breaking out into profuse perspiration the
moment they come in sight of the place where they
are accustomed to do their work ; — not but there are
other causes which render horses timid, but this is
one of them, and a very prevalent one.

In the hunting field, nine falls in ten are caused
by horses slipping at their fences when about to
effect their spring : sometimes it arises from the state
of the ground, as already noticed, and from banks
giving way, which no system of shoeing can prevent ;
but these accidents are most frequently to be traced
to the insecure footing which horses experience from

SHOEING. 153

ieir shoes. Every man who has had experience in
ding to hounds is aware of the great exertions
inch horses frequently make when fences pre-
3nt themselves, in order to avoid slipping, as they
ise to leap those fences; the danger is greatly
lcreased if uneven or sloping surfaces receive them
n the further side ; and they often fall from such
auses. When a wide blind ditch obstructs the
rogress, though scarcely ever perceptible till the
nimal is taking his spring to clear it, how frequently,
/hen making a great effort to do so, does the exertion
ause the feet to slip, when a fall is inevitable. Brook
imping is even more subject to this inconvenience,
ecause, from the nature of the banks, — they being
sually wet, if not boggy, — horses are very liable to
e disappointed when taking their spring ; and as
lere is no chance of clearing a wide brook without
he impetus acquired by the speed at which the
mpediment is encountered, every aid should be
fforded to the animal, unless the rider delights in
jhose little amphibious exhibitions, which occasion
ast amusement to more successful rivals. There is
flso another circumstance, which must not pass un-
loticed. When horses which are ridden across the
jountry are slipping and sprawling about, inde-
pendent of the danger to themselves and their riders,
hey tire so much sooner than those which go
lollectedly ; and this is one reason why some animals
ivince such vast superiority in point of endurance
|»ver others. There are many that will go brilliantly
n a burst of fifteen minutes, but cannot go longer ;

154 STABLE PRACTICE.

not from any want of judgment on the part of thei
riders, but from the very cause now under notice,—
they are so addicted to slipping as they gallop, tha
they tire from the extra labour called into requisition
to prevent falling.

Several forms of shoes have been devised to pre
vent horses from slipping ; but there are only foui
that I am aware of, applicable to race-horses am
hunters. The first, as they deserve the precedenc
in every respect, are those made by patented ma
chinery, the. invention of Mr. Rodway, of Birming
ham. They are made of wrought iron, the only mate
rial hitherto discovered applicable for the purpose c
shoeing horses. By means of machinery they ar
formed into moulds, in which state they are sent on
to be finished and fitted to the feet. The foot sui
faces are precisely of the form which all well-shape
shoes ought to be : the ground surfaces are hollo we
or grooved out, which produces the great desideratur
of preventing horses from slipping, as much as a sho
can be the means of preventing such casualties. Ad
other merit which they possess, is that of bein:
lighter than the common shoes. It must be remem
bered, however, they are not well adapted for th
hind feet, for which the shoes require to be essentiall;
different from those suitable for the fore feet. Th
next to these are the concave shoes ; but they are no
adapted for horses with thin soles, or wide flat feet
neither do they afford as much security from slipping
as the first mentioned. They are similar to th
common shoes, except that they cannot be made wit!

SHOEING. l^5

) much seating ; hence one reason why they are not
pplicable for thin soles and flat feet : and they differ
•om the former in having the ground surface of
ie web bevelled down ; but that should not be con-
.nued further than about the last half inch towards
tie heel, so that it may form a kind of stop or resist-
nce when a horse is in the act of slipping. The same
ray of finishing the heels of Rodway's shoes is like-
rise to be recommended. The concave shoes are
nly suitable for race-horses with good feet, and
ranters in a grass country. Another form of shoes
- but they are not very commonly known, al-
bough I saw them made by a country smith, in
Shropshire, thirty years ago —will be most readily
escribed by comparing them to a very thin shoe of
he ordinary kind, with a racing plate forged on the
uter rim. They are rather difficult to make with
ccuracy, as they require a tool or instrument
therewith the rim is forged. Their effect in pre-
senting horses from slipping is satisfactory ; but I
lo not think they are superior in that respect to
Rodway's ; and as the latter are lighter and less ex-
bensive, they certainly claim a preference. The other
construction of shoe, calculated to prevent slipping,
k the ordinary one, with the outer heel very slightly
jurned up, in a similar manner to a racing plate,
they appear, however, to possess an imperfection in
he possibility that they might occasion a twist or
vrench, from the circumstance of the outer heel only
oeing turned up ; on the other hand, as I used
them for many years, till Rodway's invention came

156 STABLE PRACTICE.

out, without experiencing any inconvenience, thej
must not be condemned on that account.

As I have previously remarked, the hind shoe;
require to be made of a very different form from those
which are suitable to the fore feet. They are mucl
narrower in the web, and have usually a cawking o:
turning up on the outer heel ; a construction, how
ever, which I am not prepared to recommend on al
occasions ; and if that projection is formed, the inne:
heel should be made of corresponding thickness
The toes should be made straight, and that part o
the web bevelled down to the sole, for the purpose o:
avoiding an accident by pulling off a fore shoe ; an(
to prevent over-reaching, the toes of the shoes ough
not to extend quite so far as that part of the feet
The recommendation for making the toes of the hin(
shoes straight is obvious,— it affords a wider fulcrum
from whence horses take their spring in galloping
and leaping, but more particularly on the latter occa-
sion. When leaping, the toes of the hind feet an
the last to leave the ground, and, therefore, if th(
shoes be made round at the toes, there is only a poinl
from whence the final resistance can be obtained ; bul
if made straight, there is a bearing varying betweer
two and three inches.

Whatever construction of shoes may be determined
upon, it is of the greatest importance that the foot
surface presents a perfectly flat even bearing for the
crust to rest upon, as it is that part of the foot which
sustains the greater portion of the horse's weight. In

SHOEING. 157

uct, when standing in the stable, it sustains the
hole of the weight, unless the feet be filled with
>w or some such substance. The situation of the
ail-holes is likewise a subject demanding attention.
Tone ought, on any account, to be admitted farther
ack towards the heels than the widest part, or,
1 other words, the centre of the feet; and their
roper position in the shoe is in the surface upon
rhich the crust rests, where they should be punched
3liquely outwards, and their distance from the
uter edge of the shoes regulated by the thick-
ess of the crust with which the respective feet are
lrnished, so that when the nails are driven they
lay secure a very small portion of the sole. Punch-
ig the holes obliquely outwards is of great import-
nce : with that direction given to the nails they will
raw outwards in the crust, without depending en-
irely upon the pointing of the nails to effect that
bject. Thus, by attention to this, the shanks of
be nails will be perfectly straight ; whereas, if the
loles be punched straight into the shoe, there will be
i slight bend or curve in the shanks of the nails,
nless they are brought out very high up in the hoof,
—an exceedingly objectionable custom, because that
)ortion of the hoof below where the nails pass is
amazed.

The proper length of the heels is of very great im-
)ortance, particularly to hunters ; if the shoes be too
jong, they will almost to a certainty be drawn off':
;he width at the quarters is equally important from

158 STABLE PRACTICE.

the same cause. In either case, if the shoes project
beyond the corresponding parts of the feet, the
slightest over-reach will do the mischief.

Great inconvenience is sustained from corns, whicl:
may be ascribed to two causes— peculiar formation o\
the feet, and bad shoeing. In either case they an
formed by extravasations of blood, which is depo-
sited in the corners of the heels : this may be occa-
sioned by the form and position of the coffin bone
by the nails being placed too far back, and by the
shoes pressing on the heels, They will sometime:
exist without producing lameness; at other time;
they will cause great pain : it is therefore advisable
whenever the shoes are removed, to examine the part
and if any symptoms appear, cut them away, dres
them with tar ointment, and relieve that portion o
the foot from pressure.

The difficulty of securing racing plates to the feet
in consequence of their slender make, frequently
induces smiths to extend the nails too near thi
heels, which causes pain more or less acute, com
pelling horses, so treated, to go short, in some in
stances, absolutely lame. To obviate this, it is fa
better to make the plates stronger ; and on all occa
sions their substance should be adapted to the size o
the foot. Nailing them on too tight has also i\
similar effect. Horses with very thin feet, when th<
ground is hard, would run better in light shoes thai
plates ; but such is the effect of custom, that if J
horse were started in that way, and had not the goocj
fortune to win, the ever suspicious public woul(

SHOEING. 159

ittribute the defeat to design on the part of the
>wner or trainer.

For steeple-chasing, plates are in some cases
>erfectly out of place. Horses with very strong
ieet, when the country is nearly all grass, will go
veil in them ; but those which have tender feet re-
quire more protection than a common racing plate
ffords. The very great diversity of country com-
aonly selected for the avowed purpose of trying the
aerits of horses, renders it impossible to calculate
»rhat the nature of the ground may be till it is shown,
ijtony fields and hard roads occur in most lines, by
saping on to which horses are liable to bruise their
eet considerably, unless they are properly protected.
The great exertions which animals are required
0 make, when engaged in these contests, render it
lecessary to afford them every assistance our in-
;enuity can devise. Light shoes on Eodway's prin-
iple, or the common shoes already described, but of
ourse much lighter than for hunting, are admirably
dapted for steeple-chasing, and are for many kinds
If feet superior to plates. The variety of sub-
tances which horses may place their feet in contact
rith, when steeple-chasing, must show the propriety
f being prepared to encounter such impediments as
lay occasion even momentary pain.

160 STABLE PRACTICE.

CHAP. XV.

BANDAGES AND BOOTS.

Prejudice confuted. — Materials. — Dry Bandages. — Their Use an
Effects after washing the Legs. — Their Use and Effects sul
sequently. — Benefits derived from Bandages. — Linen Bandage

— Cold Water. — Cooling Lotion. — Mode of applying it. — Col
Bandages for Exercise. — Recommended for Hunters. — Trea
ment of the Legs of Hunters after severe Work. — Distinction fo
tween warm Woollen Bandages and cold Linen Ones. — Prop
Method of adjusting Bandages. — Bandages or Boots for Exercis j

— Merits and Demerits of each compared. — Indian Rubber Bool ,

— Objections to them.— A Case in point— Best description of Boc
for Hunters.

The difference between use and abuse cannot I
better brought out than in the matter now und(
consideration. A prejudice exists with many persoi
against the advantages of bandages for horses' leg
arising from an improper or careless mode of appi}
ing them, or from selecting a material not calculate
for the particular purpose. Hence, by using thofj
which are improper as remedies for specific ailment
ill effects are produced, and the apparatus condemne
without judge or jury. The materials of whic
bandages are formed, are woollen serge or flanne
linen, and chamois leather ; and as these are capatt
of producing very different effects, dependent upo
the manner in which they are applied, it become

BANDAGES AND BOOTS. 161

necessary to consider how they act, and make the
selection according to the nature of the case.

Dry woollen bandages are employed for horses'
legs when they return to their stables from exercise
or work, immediately after the legs have been
washed : in this case, they are only suffered to re-
main on during the time the horse's body is being
dressed, and should be put on quite loose. It may
or may not be advisable to keep the legs bandaged ;
but, under any circumstances, they should be taken
off after the body is dressed, that the legs may be
brushed and well hand-rubbed. Their effect, when
used immediately after washing the legs, will be to
maintain warmth in the extremities, and to absorb
the moisture left by the ablution. When bandages
are applied to the legs after they have been made
quite dry, it is to prevent their swelling, or — in
more familiar stable lingo — filling ; the cause of
which frequently arises from irregular circulation, —
that is, the arterial force is more energetic than the
venous and absorbent systems ; consequently, the
arterial blood is thrown out to the extremities more
copiously than the veins have the power of returning
it, or the absorbents of carrying off their appointed
portions. In these cases, the veins become suffused
with blood, often to a painful, and, in some instances,
to a dangerous, extent, when cracked heels, and such
like vexatious nuisances, become the outlets for those
superfluities which the absorbents cannot accommo-
date. As, however, cracked heels arise also from
other causes, it is unnecessary to treat of them in

M

162 STABLE PRACTICE.

this chapter, as they are noticed in that which is de-
voted to the Management of Legs and Feet.

When dry woollen bandages are properly adjusted,
they act beneficially in various ways. By their
warmth they stimulate the venous system to action,
and, by the moderate pressure which they produce,
they have a similar effect on the absorbents. This
explains the necessity of devoting great care in their
application ; if irregularly put on, they will have an
injurious effect, acting as a ligature to a vein: the
bandage will prevent the return of blood in a similar
way to that used by a surgeon when he bleeds his
patient in the arm, or the pressure on the vein of a
horse when he undergoes a similar operation. It
must therefore be seen how great is the importance
of having bandages firmly and regularly adjusted
when they are intended as remedies for swellings of
the legs. The best material for woollen bandages is
the serge made for the express purpose, as it has a
selvedge, which is more even and elastic, at the
same time firmer than flannel, which must be sewn
over or hemmed.

As the benefits to be derived from the use of a
bandage depend entirely upon the way in which it
is adjusted, it is necessary to be minute in the
directions for putting it on. This cannot be done
properly unless it is first carefully rolled up, and in
this operation it must be made quite tight and even.
It is then to be taken in the right hand, and with the
left the end of the bandage is held to the horse's leg,
about midway between the knee and the pastern; the

BANDAGES AND BOOTS, 163

next turn laps over that end, when the bandage is to
be worked up to the knee, great care being taken to
keep it quite even ; it is then to be gradually carried
downwards to the pastern joint, and tied round the
pastern. This is not the usual place- for securing it,
but I will offer reasons for adopting it. If it be tied
round the leg, and the bandage slips from the horse
rubbing it, or any other accidental cause, or if the
leg fills, the tape becomes a ligature, which it is most
important to avoid: being tied round the pastern,
that being the lowest and smallest part, such a mis-
adventure cannot occur.

Linen bandages are only serviceable as agents
for the application of cooling lotions; and to pro-
duce the desired effect, great care is necessary. If
i wet linen bandage be permitted to become dry
t acts as a stimulant, and instead of cooling it in-
lames the leg, more particularly if saturated with
■efrigerating lotion, composed of the usual ingredi-
ents ; namely, nitre, sal ammoniac, and salt, which,
laving expended their powers of evaporation, become
timuiants. It is for this reason that simple cold
rater is often more beneficial than medicated lotions,
ot because the water is more powerful in its pro-
erties of evaporation, — in fact, it is not by many
egrees so much so, — but because, when it has ceased
) produce evaporation, it does not act as a stimulant,
Ithough it must be remembered that the linen hand-
le, when it becomes dry, has that effect to a cer-
tin extent, from the heat which it occasions. When

164 STABLE PKACTICE.

properly attended to, the best effects will be pro-
duced by cooling lotions composed as follows : —

Sal Ammoniac
Common Salt

Nitre

Water - 1 pint.

}in powder, \
each J

In using this lotion, the mixture should be applied
immediately that it is prepared, because it is during
solution that the powers of evaporation exist, and it
should be renewed as often as the bandage becomes
warm. This will necessarily interfere with stable
hours, — that is to say, a horse cannot be shut up
during the usual periods, otherwise the bandages
will not only become warm, but they will become
dry, and a stimulating effect will . be produced, as
already mentioned. When extensive heat or inflam-
mation is to be subdued, it is most advisable to apply
the lotion with cloths fastened loosely on the part;!
and it should also be remembered, that when linen
bandages are used for this purpose, they should
always be put on quite loose.

I have witnessed great benefit from cold band-
ages for horses when at exercise, particularly for;
hunters; the action of which I will endeavour to
explain. The ingredients of which the lotion is
composed being refrigerant, from the faculty they
possess of evaporation, are greatly assisted in their
operation by the cooling effect of atmospheric air ;
consequently, they act more powerfully out of than
in the stable. I am not advocating this plan for
horses when they are to gallop ; but, indeed, when

BANDAGES AND BOOTS. 165

they require cold bandages, it is not, in general,
prudent to give them much fast work. Hunters,
whose legs have been knocked about, and race-
horses, on the days they are not required to take
galloping exercise, if their legs demand the use of
cooling remedies, derive great benefit from the appli-
cation. Bandages made of chamois leather are
admirably adapted for this purpose.

Old hunters, whose joints suffer from stiffness after
a hard day's work with hounds, obtain great relief
from the application of woollen bandages wrung out of
warm water, which are to be left on all night. They
are put on after the legs have been well fomented
with warm water, and thus operate as a kind of
poultice, whereby the vessels are temporarily relaxed.
It must be observed, a woollen bandage applied in
this manner is essentially different in its effects from
a linen one saturated with a refrigerating lotion,
which, as I have already stated, after a certain time,
becomes stimulative.

For the purpose of affording protection to the legs
when at exercise, either boots or bandages are made
use of. Many horses absolutely require them, because
they scarcely move in some of their paces without
striking the foot against the opposite leg at some part
or other, between the knee and the fetlock. With
them it is almost unnecessary to intimate how soon
inflammation will be established, and lameness pro-
duced, unless some artificial means of avoiding the
injury be introduced. There are various opinions
on the question, whether boots or bandages are best

M 3

166 STABLE PRACTICE.

calculated for the purpose ; it is necessary, therefore,
to discuss the merits and demerits of each. The ob-
jections to boots are these : they become hard from
the frequent exposure to wet and the accumulation
of perspiration to which they are subject ; and, with
all the care that can be bestowed upon them, some
dirt will work into the texture of the serge with
which they are lined ; and when wet, they are not
readily dried. Without very frequent inspection,
their hardness and, consequently, their inaptitude to
save the legs from injury, is not discovered till the I
legs proclaim the fact ; for it would be vain to
expect that the boys who daily make use of them will .
give any intimation that they require fresh lining. |
While they are new, or when they have been re-
cently lined, if properly padded, they afford thes
necessary protection; but by a little neglect in
thoroughly drying and brushing them, they very
soon fall into a state unfit for use. The mode oil
fastening them on, by means of straps and buckles,
is open to objection, because if one strap be drawn
too tight, if only bygone hole, it produces an uneven
pressure on the part of the limb where it is situated ;
and unless they are buckled on tolerably tight, they i
will turn round. With respect to bandages, the
chief objection lies in the nicety required in putting j
them on, and that can only be overcome by strict
attention in teaching the boys how to adjust them —
the eye will readily detect whether the instructions]
have been followed. Bandages are easily dried, andj

BANDAGES AND BOOTS. 167

may be thoroughly cleaned with soap and water from
all accumulations of perspiration and dirt. They
also afford some trifling support to the sinews. Under
these circumstances, I think the vote will be given in
favour of bandages.

There are many hunters requiring protection to
their legs, some because they strike them with their
opposite feet, others in consequence of weakness in
the back sinews, or the suspensory ligaments. For
these purposes, bandages would be unsightly and
inconvenient; the question, therefore, ensues, what
is the best description of boot? That will be de-
termined in a great measure by the nature of the
case. Those horses which hit themselves only on
their fetlock joints require thaf part alone to be pro-
tected, which is most neatly and readily accomplished
by means of a narrow piece of leather, cut just long
enough to surround the joint, having a strap with a
buckle on the outside running through four loops^
one of which is placed about three quarters of an inch
from each end. This need not be buckled on very
tight (a great objection), because, if it turns round, it
still continues to guard the part. As for speedy cut
boots, a horse requiring such apparatus can scarcely
be worthy of stable room ; and it is, therefore, useless
to waste time on the subject. The old fashioned
leather boot formerly used for hunters which hit
their legs between the knee and the fetlock, or re-
quire support to their sinews, is superseded by those
of elastic Indian rubber fabric, which are not per-
il 4

168 STABLE PRACTICE.

feet, from the fact that they contract or collapse
with cold, and expand with heat ; therefore, when a
horse is standing by a covert, half way up to his
knees in clay, they will become painfully tight ; and
when he becomes warm by galloping, and requires
the support which the boots are intended to provide,
they become relaxed, and for that purpose useless,
as I myself have experienced. I had been sitting on
my horse some considerable time in Austey Wood;
which all those who have hunted in Warwickshire
are aware is intersected with rides of a very wet
nature. My horse had on a pair of the Indian rub-
ber boots : at length the fox broke covert, when I
found, to my surprise and mortification, that my horse
was completely crippled. At first I could not ima-
gine the cause ; but a friend who was passing me in
my difficulty suggested it was the boots ; upon which
I immediately dismounted and cut them off, when
the poor horse went as well as ever. I have never
repeated the experiment.

The most appropriate boots for these purposes are
made of kersey, the colour of which may be regu-
lated by that of the legs. They should be nicely
lined, and fitted on with laces : if properly cut, they
afford a support similar to bandages, and are as little
unsightly as such contrivances can be.

169

CHAP. XVI.

CLOTHING.

>isplay of Taste. — Colours. — Texture. — Shape. — Material for
• Sweaters. — Stable Suits. — Precaution against Dampness. —
j Rollers, and then Adjustment Tearing the Clothing. — Pre-
ventives. — Example. — Crib-biting. — Remedies. — An incor-
i rigible Crib-biter.

Cms very necessary portion of the appointments
onnected with the stable admits to a considerable
ixtent a display of taste on the part of the pro-
prietor ; nevertheless, there are certain considerations
if convenience and utility which fashion and a desire
(or novelty should not be allowed to overrule. For
acing purposes, light tints usually prevail, or — more
n keeping with uniformity — those which assimilate
yith the colours of the cap and jacket. The latter se-
ection is advantageous to the public, and enables
trangers to identify horses by the analogy of their
ivery. The light colours, so long as they are fresh and
lean, have a superiority in appearance to the dark
>nes ; but when the gloss of newness is worn off, the
atter are preferable ; nothing looks more slovenly than
i suit of light-coloured clothing soiled with stains
vhen a horse is led out in it on a race-course. The tex-
;ure requires to be adapted to the season of the year,

170 STABLE PRACTICE.

or more properly, in this variable climate, to the stat<
of the atmosphere. In cold weather, a fine ligh
kersey will be appropriate ; but when the air become
hot, something of a thinner texture is required. Tha
which is made of serge is preferable to linen for thi
purpose, because the perspiration causes the forme
to become wet and cold ; besides which, not beinj
sufficiently elastic, it never fits nicely. The art o
cutting out clothing is a portion of the saddler'
business not always performed with good judgment
Quarter pieces require to be cut back at the point o !
the withers, otherwise they rub the mane away, an«
cause the horse to appear as if he had been in harness
From that part they should be sloped forward, s
that the shoulders may be well covered. Muc i
nicety should be observed in the form of the hoods
for the appearance of the most symmetrically forme
horse is spoiled by clothing cut in bad proportions.

The best material for sweaters, as being thj
lightest, the warmest, and the most readily dried, i
the common rug. ''.For the body, the rug should b,
formed by cutting a piece out in the form of a hal
circle, commencing at the point of the withers ; thi
leaves a portion which admits of being fastens
across the chest by means of a strap and buckle, am
dispenses with the necessity of a breast cloth. A ruj
cut down the middle, with the two ends joine<
together, forms a breast sweater, occasionally require'
for horses which become loaded about the shoulder
and neck.

Bugs are likewise most suitable for horses to wea |J

CLOTHING. 171

n their stables. The substance of this material
aries considerably ; but those which are of medium
jiickness are preferable: in the first place, very-
pick ones are too warm for summer use; in the
econd, they are not so readily dried"; and in the
finter, especially in the hunting stables, it is more
onvenient to use two of moderate thickness. The
iisensible perspiration which constantly escapes from
jorses will render the clothing in which they stand
hore or less damp ; that dampness will be found on
he outer rug when two are made use of, and the
Inderneath one will be perfectly dry. The outer
ne can, therefore, be very easily dried while horses
[re out at exercise, or being dressed ; moreover, the
hick rugs, with quarter pieces over them, are two
^eavy for exercise.

Great inconvenience is occasioned by buckling the
•oilers, with which the clothing is secured when in
ihe stable, too tight. It is well known the injury
Krhich the fair sex inflict on their forms by tight
lacing, and this can scarcely be less injurious. A
•oiler buckled tight round the part where the heart
's situated cannot fail to be prejudicial to the action
[>f that very important member, and consequently
effect the circulation. To avoid this, ingenious de-
vices have been introduced in the way of springs and
£ndia rubber webbing ; but they cannot act satisfac-
torily, because when drawn sufficiently tight to keep
the clothing in place, the springs or tension of the
India rubber fabric must be so nearly expanded as
to render either ineffective. The purpose is more

172 STABLE PRACTICE.

readily accomplished by means of a breast-girth fixei
to the rollers, with which it is impossible for tha
apparatus to slip back.

The propensity which many horses evince for mis !
chief is exemplified in a trick of tearing their clothing
— a very expensive amusement, and one which it is ii
some instances difficult to check. Clothing made o
horsehair is in some cases made use of, but no I
with very satisfactory results, for some determine)
offenders will destroy that; moreover, it is of
harsh rough texture, calculated to produce irritatio:
©i the skin, and, from that cause, promote the habil
A side stick — that is, a piece of ash, with a buckl
and strap at either end — is the most effectual remedj
one end of which is buckled to a loop on the rollei
the other to the head collar : this, if made of a prope
length, prevents a horse from turning his head suffi
ciently to reach the clothing which covers th
shoulders or any part behind ; but I very recentr
had a horse that was not deterred by that means
although I had a stick placed on each side. Bein<
curious to ascertain how he contrived to perform hi
trick, I watched him from a window when he wa
shut up, and discovered that he accomplished it h
throwing up that portion of his rug which was fast
ened over his chest with his knees, and catching i
with his mouth, tearing it away nearly as far back a
the roller. Having carved his clothing to his owij
fancy, I allowed him to wear it in that form, as tin
only alternative ; for if any portion was brought for

CLOTHING. 173

vard sufficiently to enable him to reach it in the
nanner described, it was certain to be torn.

Another of the accomplishments to which some
lorses are prone, that of crib-biting, is generally pre-
ented by means of a broad strap round the neck. A
nuzzle with bars at the bottom, so that the subject
aay feed through that space, is sometimes used, but
no preventive of wind-sucking; in fact, it is
'ery likely to induce a crib- biter to adopt that habit.
i head collar has also been invented for a similar
purpose ; but I think the broad strap is preferable,
.t should always be taken off when the horse is
Irinking.

This very obnoxious habit is doubtless acquired
luring hours of idleness, when a variety of projec-
ions convenient to the animal's purpose are pre-
iented ; it is, therefore, important that all buildings
>ccupied by horses be free from inviting objects,
rhere are many degrees of crib-biting ; but unless
iffectually checked in its infancy, by allowing nothino-
o remain within reach, the habit usually increases,
.ndeed some horses are so determined in this pro-
pensity, that it is scarcely possible to prevent them
ven with the broad strap already named. I remem-
)er a hunter belonging to a master of foxhounds which
kmld not be deterred from this habit. He stood in
. stall, the manger of which was guarded with a re-
viving bar of iron, having little spikes inserted, like
. clievaux-de-frize. It had not been placed there a
\reek before the cunning brute set that at defiance,

174 STABLE PRACTICE.

by taking up mouthfuls of litter and winding them oi
the bar, thus forming a nice protecting cushion. Th
effective remedy was then adopted, of keeping hie
in a loose box, with a small moveable trough for corn
but during the time he was feeding, it was necessar;
to have a man standing near him, or he would leav
off eating, to indulge in his bad propensity. Th
trough being removed, there was no kind of projec
tion which he could take hold of, and his hay wa
thrown down in a corner of the box.

175

CHAP. XVII.

PHYSIC.

nportance of Physic. — Constitution to be consulted. — Circum-
stances which indicate the Propriety of giving Physic to Race-
horses. — Reference to Formula. — Circumstances which indicate
the Propriety of giving Physic to Hunters. — On Alteratives. —
Reference to the " Stud Farm."

?HE great importance of physic for race-horses and
unters is so generally admitted, that it appears un-
necessary to enlarge on that topic, more especially as

have in the "Stud Farm" introduced the subject
rith. directions applicable to the management of all
worses prior to giving medicine, and during its opera-
ion, together with formulas for its preparation.

The only caution I shall presume to repeat is, that
tf not giving physic in strong doses. The first con-
lideration is to proportion the dose to the consti-
lution of the subject. On this head, experience is
he only monitor. Hearty-feeding — I may term
ibem gluttonous — horses are often very readily
jcted upon by purgative medicines ; and on the con-
irary, horses which are light feeders will sometimes
equire the most powerful remedies. With a strange
jorse whose constitution is not known, the safer plan
i the first instance is to besm with moderation.

176 STABLE PRACTICE.

Horses in training generally require physic be
tween each preparation ; but whether it is advisabl
to give it at other periods must entirely depend upo
circumstances. If the very hard state of the groun
renders galloping a dangerous exercise, a mild dose (
physic may sometimes stand in the place of a swes
with good effect, more especially if the legs gh
suspicious tokens. Any horse whose appearance ii
dicates that with a considerable portion of work he
acquiring fat, will in all probability be benefited I
a dose of physic. The first symptoms of indispositic
will very frequently yield to a dose of physic, moi
particularly if the liver be out of order, either as
primitive or sympathetic cause. Loss of appetite,
fetid odour arising from the evacuations, depressic
of spirits, a dry feverish state of the tongue, all ter
to show that the biliary secretions are not acting wil
regularity. In such cases the introduction of calom
may be recommended in combination with aloes, a>
cording to the formula given at page 154. of tl
« Stud Farm."

The general custom of giving hunters physic
founded upon such a rational basis that it cannot \
safely dispensed with previously to commencing the
work. Two doses are usually sufficient during tt
month of August, and I have found it an excellei
plan to give another early in the month of Novembe
The process of assuming the winter coat has a ver|
considerable effect on the constitution: during tl
time it is in progress, much lassitude and debilit
exist, when it is most prudent to avoid giving purg*

physic. 177

tive medicines, unless some particular cause renders
(it imperative. By giving two doses of physic suffi-
ciently early in August before the coat has under-
gone any change, and again in November when it is
(stationary, the most beneficial result may reasonably
pe expected. In the event of an accident, it is gene-
rally necessary to give medicine to allay inflammation,
which with horses highly fed is usually extensive.
The old custom of bleeding on all trivial occasions
is nearly superseded by the more rational introduc-
tion of physic. The setting in of a frost is usually
the suggestion to give physic to hunters, and there
are several good reasons for so doing. In the first
place, it is an auxiliary to the recovery of injuries
from blows on the legs to which hunters in all
countries are susceptible ; also from the inflammation
occasioned by thorns. The exuberance of spirit
which highly conditioned horses are prone to exhibit,
can scarcely be kept within moderate bounds by the
exercise obtainable during a protracted frost ; and on
that account again, unless physic were employed, the
animals would become internally fat, in which state
danger is always to be apprehended if they are
suddenly required to undergo laborious exertions.

The indiscriminate use of alteratives composed of
antimonial preparations, prevails in many hunting
stables to an injurious extent. « Nimrod * was at one
period a great advocate for them ; but from a conver-
sation which I had with him a few years before his
death, I found he had changed his opinion. The
principal effect that I have observed from them is to

178 STABLE PRACTICE.

occasion nausea ; consequently, temporary loss of ap-
petite, and debility. It must be admitted they cause
horses to look well in their coats ; but if they have
been properly prepared for their work by mild doses
of aloes, they will not require any alteratives, or nos-
trums denominated " condition balls." By this I do
not mean to disparage the merits of tartar emetic in
cases of fever or indisposition requiring such a remedy;
but those disorders come under the direction of
veterinary treatment, which I do not presume to dis^-
cuss in these pages. Cutaneous diseases may also
require diaphoretics.

I offer no apology for the brevity of this chapter,
having in the " Stud Farm," with the exception of
the few subjects here introduced, explained most of the
causes which indicate the propriety of giving physic
to horses at all ages ; and have likewise, in every
case, suggested the occasions when it is required.
But I cannot conclude without urging the importance
of strict attention to the preliminary management
with regard to food, without which the proper effects
of purgatives can never be relied upon with satis-
faction or regularity.

179

CHAP. XVIII.

TRAVELLING.

An Apostrophe. — Exorbitant Charges made to Owners of Race-
horses. — Comparison with other Classes of Travellers. — Extor-
tions counteracted by Railways. — Economy of Railway Travelling,
— Inconveniences of travelling by the Road. — The Time neces-
sarily occupied. — Touts disappointed. —Effects of Road Travelling
on the Legs and Feet. — Weather. — Cost per Diem of travelling
by the Road. — Sweating essential afterwards. — Precautions
against Alarm and Injury. — Horses to be walked a few Miles
after Railway Travelling. — Impertinent Curiosity defeated. —
Construction of Vans. — Expense of Posting. — Observances when

travelling on the Road. — Boys walking with their Horses

Objections thereto. — Road Travelling seldom imperative. — In-
fluence of Railways on Race Meetings.

When a man sallies forth with race-horses, it would
appear that every individual with whom he has pe-
cuniary transactions accosts him with these quaint
expressions : —

" I wish thee, Vin, above all wealth,
Both bodily and ghostly health;
Not too much Avit or wealth come to thee,
For much of either might undo thee."

Every innkeeper, and indeed every other person
with whom an owner of race-horses comes in contact,
appears to be so wonderfully interested in the moral

N 2

ISO STABLE PRACTICE.

happiness of the latter, that rather than he should
suffer the dreadful evils to be apprehended from a
plethora of riches, they would singly or collectively
encounter the risk of taking all superfluous abun-
dance upon themselves. Why it should be, I never
could conceive; but all classes of men connected
with racing are charged enormously at most of the
hotels or inns to which they are accustomed to resort.
The man of pleasure who travels for his amusement,
who seeks the enjoyment of the coffee-room at the hotel
in the town where he may be sojourning, is charged
fairly, and according to the luxuries which he desires.
The commercial traveller, when on his route for his
own or his employer's profit, is charged moderately ;
but he who keeps race-horses — who moves himself,
his horses, and his servants from one place to ano-
ther to promote sport by which an influx of company
is gathered into the town, whereby the innkeepers
are great gainers; and who maintains one of the
noblest diversions of the present age ; to which may
be added the ambition of still improving that breed of
horses as yet unrivalled by any other nation, not
only for the honour, but also for the prosperity of
this country — is charged extravagantly.

These extortions are in some measure counteracted
by the facility of locomotion afforded by railways ;
and although the charges made by the companies for
the transmission of horses and boys are considerable,
taking all circumstances into calculation it is a more
desirable mode of travelling than by the road.
The risk and inconvenience attendant upon change

TRAVELLING. 181

of stabling, and the consequent change also of hay
and water, must be taken into account. The time
occupied when travelling by the road is another
very important item, which likewise entails the ne-
cessity of making a longer sojourn prior to the meet-
ing at the town where the race takes place, in order
that the horse may take a sweat after his journey ;
an event which affords the touts opportunities of
scrutinising his condition, and sometimes of putting
more unworthy practices in operation ; for they
are evil genii, on all occasions to be regarded with
great caution. The road never produces beneficial
effects upon the legs and feet ; on the contrary, it is
often productive of much staleness, especially when
it is in a very wet state ; or the reverse, dry, hard
and dusty. Bad weather is likewise a very serious
affair ; for if the clothing becomes wet with rain, the
difficulty of getting it thoroughly dried for the ensuing
day's journey is very great ; moreover, during the
time thus occupied, that which is found at the inn
must be used as a temporary substitute, the dryness
of which cannot always be depended upon. If horses
travel by the road a distance of a hundred miles, at
least four, or most probably five, days will be occupied
by the journey, at an average cost of ten or eleven
shillings per diem for each horse and attendant boy,
independent of the expenses incurred by the trainer
or head lad who accompanies them; and they re-
quire to be at the place of meeting four clear days
prior to the race for the purpose of being sweated;

N 3

182 STABLE PRACTICE.

thus upwards of a fortnight must necessarily elapse
from the time of leaving to that of their return
to their stables. The railways obviate all these
inconveniences without materially enhancing the
expenses.

It is a singular fact, that very few horses evince
any great degree of alarm on travelling in this fashion ;
but some do, and therefore there are a few precautions
necessary to avoid danger. In many cases winkers
are of important service if put on for the purpose
of leading horses into the boxes. There are so many
objects constantly presenting themselves at railway
stations to which neither race-horses nor hunters have
been accustomed, that alarm may be occasioned very
unexpectedly, and which a pair of winkers may be
the means of preventing. The legs require the pro-
tection of knee-caps, and boots or bandages. It
scarcely appears necessary to suggest the propriety
of a boy riding in the same vehicle which contains
the horse.

If time, weather, and circumstances permit, it
is advisable to take horses off the rail five or six
miles from the place of their destination, so that they
may walk that distance to their stables. It circulates
their blood, occasions muscular action, and prepares
them for being dressed and fed more after the man-
ner to which they are accustomed. It likewise dis-
appoints the prying and often impertinent eye of
curiosity which constantly attends the terminus of a
railway prior to a race meeting.

TRAVELLING. 183

Most of the modern race-horse vans are so con-
structed as to be capable of being forwarded by the
railways ; that is to say, their height is restricted so
that they may pass under the tunnels and bridges ;
and wherever railway locomotion is- not available,
post-horses supply the place of steam. Posting is
considerably more expensive; hence on some occa-
sions it maybe necessary to travel by the road, — a
means, however, beset with many difficulties. In such
cases it is desirable to set off early in the morning
during summer ; but in the spring and autumn, from
half past eight to nine o'clock is a more seasonable
hour. It is essentially necessary that the trainer,
head lad, or some confidential person should accom-
pany them. As there are very few stables kept in
a sufficient degree of preparation for the reception of
race-horses on a journey, it is desirable to send infor-
mation of the intended visit, unless the trainer or
head lad precedes the horses to make the necessary
arrangements. The custom formerly prevailed of
making the boys walk and lead their horses all the
way ; but I am not prepared to recommend that plan ;
indeed, there are many objections to it. Horses are
much more likely to hit their legs when being led
than when they are ridden, from the circumstance of
the head being frequently drawn to the near side ;
moreover, the boys are unnecessarily fatigued, and
therefore less capable of doing justice to their horses
by dressing them effectively and expeditiously on
their arrival at the place of rest.

N 4

184 STABLE PRACTICE.

All parts of England are so thoroughly provided
with railway accommodations, that the necessity foi
horses travelling by the road is nearly superseded.
There are few places where race meetings are held
which are not within a short day's journey of a rail-
way station. Indeed it appears almost an essential
feature to the success of " Olympic Festivals," that
such accommodation should be available.

185

CHAP. XIX.

CLIPPING AND SINGEING.

lipping very generally practised. — Nimrod's approval. — Xecessity
for artificial Remedies. — Inconvenience of a rough Coat. —
Trouble and Labour avoided. — Delicate Skins and fine Coats. —
Singeing preferable to Clipping. — Reasons thereon. — Horses can
be singed however long their Coats. — Practical Illustration. —
Gas versus Naphtba. — The Apparatus to use Gas. — Nonsus-
ceptibility of Cold. — Evidence thereon. — Objections. — Phe-
nomenon of blind Horses. — Not accounted for, although attempted.
— Blind Horses formerly used in Stage Coaches. — Importance of
a fine Coat. — Health of the Skin promoted. — Objectionable
Nostrums. — The Skin can be most thoroughly cleansed when the
Coat is short.

?he operation of clipping has now stood the test of
3me thirty years' experience, with horses of all
lasses required for speed and endurance, race-horses
xcepted, whose services are not usually called for at
ie season of the year when it is necessary ; namely,
uring the four months of midwinter. The converts
) the practice have been annually on the increase
11 it now may be denominated universal, save where
le more modern introduction of sino-eino- is taking

recedence in stables containing horses of the best
escription.
When "Nimrod" introduced the subject in his well
nown works, clipping was in its infancy, and singe-
lg had not been adopted ; but he, with his usual
ood judgment, strongly recommended the perform-

186 STABLE PRACTICE.

ance upon all hunters and hacks with long coats
With respect to clipping, it is a fact well known t
all who use horses during the winter season, whe:
their coats are long and thick, that some artificis
remedy is necessary to diminish the substance, if th
animals are engaged either as hunters or on the roac
A horse enveloped in a long, thick, and woolly cc
vering, when destined to accelerated exertions, ma i
be compared to a man taking strong exercise in
great coat ; either of whom must suffer great incor i
venience from the profusion of perspiration whic
ensues, and which, being constantly repeated, muj|
have the effect of weakening the constitution, redn
cing the muscular power, and likewise the digesthj
faculties. [Much trouble is also 'experienced wit
horses under such circumstances on their arrival
in the stables ; because, independently of the laboi j
required to dress them, they will, in defianc
of every precaution, continue to break out in col
sweats, very prejudicial to condition. Here, how I
ever, it is necessary to remark that some horses ha\ I
such very delicate skins, and coats so fine, eve
through the winter, that, with proper care, they d
not require such treatment, unless it be the use <
the singeing-lamp, applied very lightly ; and I ai
quite prepared to recommend that process in prefei
ence to clipping, from practical experience of tli
advantages derived from it by all hunters, hacks, an
steeple-chase horses. After having been singed, the
do not experience that degree of chilliness, evider
by their appearance when exposed in cold and wind

CLIPPING AND SIXGEING. 187

eather, which they do when clipped, although they
ji be singed closer than they can be clipped ; in
ct, the singeing may be regulated to any degree
iat may be considered desirable.

I imagine this distinction may be attributed to the
,ct that the process of singeing has the effect of
osing or, as it were, sealing up the outer extremity
■ each hair, which, being a hollow tube, when
erely cut with the scissors, is left open, and there-
ire acts as a conductor of cold to the skin ; for
though after clipping it is usual to make use of the
ngeing apparatus, the flame does not come in con-
ict with every particular hair, or even one in twenty ;
>nsequently, the inconvenience alluded to still exists
) a very considerable extent. When singeing is nicely
erformed, the coat will retain its original colour and
loss, but that is not generally the case after clipping.

Many persons entertain an idea that singeing is
aly practicable with horses whose coats have not
ecome very long and thick, and therefore, to prevent
iat, it must be commenced very early — before they
ave grown. Although it is very desirable to do so,
nd, by repeating the operation every week or ten
ays, keep them short, it is not imperative. Very
jcently a horse came into my possession with a par-
cularly long and woolly coat, and the day after he
irived, a friend, who happened to call, a very good
idee in such matters, observed it was a decided case
w clipping. " No," I replied, " he shall be singed."
ly friend was of opinion it could not be done satis-
ictorily ; nevertheless, I was determined it should

188 STABLE PEACTICE.

be tried. The process was conducted as follows : -
The horse was singed as close as circumstances wou
permit, because, it must be observed, when the co:
is in that state, after the siageing-lamp has be<
applied several times in succession to one part,
dampness arises from perspiration, occasioned by tl
warmth of the flame, in which state the operatic
cannot be continued. After singeing, the horse w
sweated moderately, and, immediately on his retu:
to the stable, well washed with warm water and sc
soap, thoroughly scraped, and dressed. On the fc
lowing day the operation was renewed in a simil
manner, and repeated with intervals of a few da;
till the coat was reduced to the state in which I wish
it to be. But without the precaution of sweatii
and washing, to cleanse away the charred particl
of hair, and the perspiration already noticed, both
which adhere to the coat, the process of singeing ca
not be advantageously renewed. The recent intr
duction of gas for this purpose is a decided improv
ment upon the spirit of naphtha heretofore made u
of, particularly when the coat has attained a con^
derable growth ; because the gas takes it off quick
and more regularly. Besides, the flame from tl
gas can be regulated with the greatest nicety, to sui
particular parts or circumstances, which cannot be
readily managed with the spirit. Wherever gas a
be obtained (and there are very few country towi
where it is not consumed), by means of the apparati
constructed for the purpose, which is to be had
most saddlers', the use of gas is less expensive tk

CLIPPING AND SINGEING. 189

iphtha. Being provided with the flexible tube and
tnp, and the former attached to any pipe supplied
ith gas, the operation may be performed expedi-
nisly and with great precision.
Apprehensions might be entertained* that the act
depriving a horse of a great portion of his natural
vering would occasion him to be very susceptible
[ taking cold ; but experience proves that not to be
e case. An accident which occurred to me several
lars ago may serve as evidence of this assertion. I
I as returning home, one evening in the month of
ovember, and, passing through a gentleman's park,
ider some trees, the branches of which I could not
scern in consequence of the excessive darkness, I was
ereby pulled off my hack, a mare which had been
ipped only the day previously. This disaster gave
ST her liberty,. and, although I obtained the aid of
le keeper and other assistance, I could not succeed in
tiding the mare : she therefore remained in the park
ithout shelter all night. Moreover, it was bitterly
jld, foggy, and frosty. When daylight appeared,
(e mare was discovered ; and I fully expected, espe-
jally as I had ridden her fast up to the time we
jirtecl company, that she would be laid up with a
olent cold. That, however, was not the case. On
fcr return home she had a bran mash, with two
juices of spirit of nitric ether, and, on the following
Ly, gave no evidence of the slightest indisposition.
Lad she not been clipped I am inclined to think the
jsult would not have been so fortunate ; because,
hm. the pace I had ridden her, with the perspiration

190 STABLE PRACTICE.

remaining in the coat, she would have been wet i
night, whereas she quickly became dry; hence tl
coldness of the atmosphere had not such an injuria
effect as might have been expected. This, hoi
ever, is not to lead to the impression that I wou
expose an animal to the inclemency of the weath
immediately after clipping or singeing — quite t
reverse; and in the stable a moderate addition
clothing may be used with propriety, dependei
however, on the state of the weather, and the inc"
cations which will be readily discovered by the a
pearance of the animal.

The only objection that can be raised against cli
ping or singeing is the dull appearance which
entaiis upon all horses at the spring of the year, ji
at the period of shedding their coats. These opei
tions have likewise an influence in postponing t
time when the new coat makes its appearance, — i
conveniences which are trivial compared with t
advantages derived at that season of the year wh
the services of the hunter are most valuable to t.
sportsman.

There is a most extraordinary phenomenon co
nected with horses' coats, which I believe has nev
yet been accounted for; that is, blind horses w
have fine coats in the winter, and rough ones in tl
summer, thereby reversing the order of those whit
enjoy the faculty of sight. It is far beyond my cor
prehension to explain or even guess at the cause ;
the same time it would be exceedingly interesting
all who are concerned in the management of horses,

CLIPPING AND SINGEING. 191

ie knotty point could be elucidated. If it could
e discovered, there is a possibility that the result
light lead to the substitution of means whereby the
)ats of horses could be kept fine throughout the
inter without resorting to the alternatives of clip-
ing or singeing. An attempt has been made by a
eterinary surgeon, whose name I am not acquainted
fith, to explain this mystery ; but he unfortunately
died at the outset by stating that blind horses are
Iways rough in their coats, which is not the fact.
q the days when stage coaches triumphed, many
lind horses were employed; and any superficial ob-
jrver would readily detect those which were so
Eflicted in the winter months by the peculiar fineness
f their coats. No difference of treatment would
ccasion this, as the horses composing a team most
ssuredly fared alike ; hence it is more conclusive that
)me physical influence, as yet unknown, produces
lis extraordinary characteristic.

The healthy condition of the skin, and the fineness
f the coat, are essentials to the well doing of all
inds of horses ; they proclaim the state of the sto-
mach, with which there exists a direct sympathy, and
Id vastly to appearances. To obtain these desi-
erata during the winter, hot stables, alteratives,
iuretics, diaphoretics, and all sorts of diabolical nos-
'ums, are resorted to, many of which are capable of
rodueing a temporary effeot at the expense of the
institution. One of the recommendations applicable
) clipping and singeing consists in the facility
Forded of thoroughly cleansing the skin from all

192 STABLE PRACTICE.

superficial accumulations of sweat and dust, which,
being allowed to remain, obstruct the pores, anc
interrupt a very important function. When a horst
has a thick and long coat, it is impossible to eradicate
those impurities effectually ; — they may be removec
from the surface, while the most important part, th<
skin itself, is left uncleaned.

193

CHAP. XX.

Effects on the Constitution.— Events which influence those Effects. —
Caution. — Stimulus to Exertion. — Race Riding, a laborious Oc-
cupation. — Importance of Condition in a Jockey. — Recommended
to Hunting Men. — Severe Abstinence from Food deprecated. —
Practical Experience of moderate Living and long Walks. — De-
privations of Jockies. — Hunger and Thirst.— Causes which affect
Hunger. — Causes which affect Thirst. — Selection of appropriate
Food and Drink. — Comparison between Wasting and Training.
— Preliminary Observances. — Aperient Medicines. — Excessive
Use of Epsom Salts. — Practical Anecdote. — Walking, and the
usual Observances. — Pace. — Perspiration promoted. — Remedy
for blistered Feet — Walking on the Morning of a Race. — Amount
reduced. — Temptation. — Diet. — Beverage. — Smoking.

Whether wasting is injurious to the constitution or
not depends upon how the process is conducted, and
the extent to which it is carried. If excessively severe
measures are adopted, in order to effect a considerable
reduction of weight in a very brief space of time,
great prostration of strength results from the want of
sufficient nutriment, and the escape of a vast quantity
of fluid in the form of perspiration ; but with careful
treatment and judicious regimen, so far from the health
being injured, it is promoted by the ordeal. If every
person were to ascertain his weight when in the most
perfect state of health, and in condition to endure the
utmost amount of fatigue, after a regular course of

o

194 STABLE PRACTICE.

training, it would generally be found at a lower
standard than upon ordinary occasions, when he
takes no more exercise than inclination and the
common occurrences of life dictate. We lose inces-
santly by different ways, as by perspiration, re-
spiration, and other evacuations, a part of the ele-
ments of which our bodies are composed, amounting
to some pounds in the course of twenty-four hours ;
and we should perish if we were not to re-supply
them and our strength together with nourishment
obtained from food and drink. Strong exercise, ac-
companied by spare living, are the means adopted to
reduce the weight ; and it is by careful attention to
the extent of work and abstinence which the consti-
tution is capable of sustaining safely,- that determines
the question whether or not wasting is injurious to
the constitution. An individual labouring under
chronic disease of the lungs, the heart, and those
organs employed in respiration, can scarcely expect
to undergo the process of wasting without danger.
When due notice has been given, and time will
permit, it is far more prudent and advantageous for
a jockey to take two or three extra walks to get him-
self down to the prescribed weight, and to live mode-
rately, than to tamper with the constitution by
taking strong doses of aperient medicine, and very
little or no food containing the elements of nutrition.
The prevailing passion — love of gain, or, what is
more excusable, a laudable desire to serve a respected
employer — will sometimes tempt jockies to waste
to excess on short notice. Excessive perspiration

WASTING. 195

and abstinence from food reduce the muscular as
well as the adipose tissues : this, in order materially
to reduce the weight, is necessary, and, to a certain
extent, can be accomplished without inconvenience ;
but when the muscular system is diminished beyond
a reasonable standard, the stamina is enfeebled,
strength prostrated, and the powers of endurance im-
paired, in which state no man is capable of riding a
race to the best advantage. Some individuals can
bear a much more extensive reduction of muscle
without inconvenience than others.

For a jockey to be in good condition to ride, he
requires preparation. Race riding is a very laborious
undertaking so long as it lasts, especially with a
hard-pulling horse, or one that requires great ex-
ertions to get him out. A man is no better qualified
to perform on an animal of this kind if he is not in
condition, than a horse would be to run if taken up
from the grass field. He may hang on, it is true;
but instead of beins; able to assist the animal when.
assistance becomes necessary, he is like so much
dead weight upon the creature's back. From not
being in condition, gentlemen jockies frequently make
absurd exhibitions. Gentlemen may ride as well as
jockies, and there are many who can, but they pre-
pare themselves with equal care. If a man has to
ride two stone or more above his ordinary weight,
and is not in practice, he should take three or four
walks in flannels, not with a view of reducing him-
self, but to get rid of superfluous fat, and thus re-
lieving his lungs ; the muscular system will also be
o 2

196 STABLE PRACTICE.

improved by the walking exercise. This is a prac-
tice which every hunting man who consults his own
ease and comfort will do well to adopt, unless he is
of a very spare habit, and prepared by the exertion
of shooting and taking a vast deal of strong pedes-
trian exercise.

The custom of very severe abstinence from food,
or, as it may be appropriately termed, absolute
starvation, cannot be too seriously condemned. Any
excess of labour is preferable to that. A man may
get off a considerable quantity of weight if he will
work. Some years since I was requested by a friend
to ride a three years old filly for him, engaged in the
" Cup " at Heaton Park. The request was made at
Doncaster, but not till the Friday, and the race
took place on the same day in the following week.
Without wasting more than I had then done, I
could not have ridden under 9 st. 12 1b., and it
was expected the mare would not be handicapped
higher than 8 st. 7 lb. My reply was, that on so
short a notice I feared I could not do it, but I would
get off as much weight as possible; consequently,
instead of riding, I walked from Doncaster to Man-
chester, a distance of fifty-four miles, during the
first two days in flannels. This I could not have
accomplished had I not lived moderately; but I
experienced not the slightest inconvenience beyond
considerable fatigue, and on the day had reduced
myself to 8 st. 9 lb. If I had lost a day's walking
by riding my hack, and observed greater abstinence

WASTING. 197

from food, I might have got to the same weight;
but it would have produced emaciation and feebleness.
Jockies who are under the necessity of wasting ex-
tensively must undergo considerable personal depri-
vation. Not only do they experience a vast deal of
fatigue from walking eight or ten miles nearly every
day at a fast pace enveloped in flannels, but they have
to contend against two very unjrieasant sensations —
hunger and thirst. The first of these is influenced
by various causes, some of which the wasting jockey
cannot control, and others he is compelled to adopt in
order to reduce himself. A cold and dry atmosphere,
such as we frequently experience in the spring sea-
son, will tend to sharpen the appetite ; so will cold
bathing, which on that account should be avoided.
Exercise on horseback, walking, in fact every species
of labour, in the open air more particularly, will
produce hunger, from the reason that the digestion
is accelerated by the exhaustion of the system which
takes place, occasioning an increased demand for
nutrition. These labours are, in fact, the duties of
a jockey ; and it is therefore a subject of considerable
personal mortification, that, being compelled to follow
employments which, more than almost any others,
create an appetite, he should be obliged to refrain
from the indulgence of eating, except in very parsi-
monious quantities. Any person who has taken a ride
of twenty miles before breakfast on a cold frosty
morning will acknowledge the relish he has for the
morning meal, which is augmented by two causes, —
o 3

198 STABLE PRACTICE.

the exercise, and the effects of the air on the digestive
organs. On the other hand, the appetite is less keen
when the atmosphere is warm and humid. Ward
liquids have the effect of appeasing the appetite, and
for that reason, as well as for creating an increase of
perspiration, are frequently taken : at the same time,
it is necessary to offer a caution against excess,
whereby the healthy action of the stomach may be
impaired. The sensation of thirst is with most per-
sons, when wasting, much more acute than that of
hunger, but it varies very greatly in different per-
sons, and, at times, with the same individual. Ex-
cessive perspiration naturally increases thirst, from
the escape which it occasions of the fluid humours
contained in the body. To the wasting jockey this
is the greatest deprivation ; for, if he intends to
reduce his weight to any extent, he must abstain as
much as possible from liquids. Thirst is greatly
influenced by the nature of the food which is partaken
of. Flesh of all kinds, but more especially those
which have been salted, and fish, will create thirst ;
but vegetables have a contrary effect, as a great
portion of their substance turns to water in the pro-
cess of digestion.

Thus will be understood the advantage of making
a proper selection of food and beverage ; and, prior to
commencing the process of wasting, it is desirable to
adopt a regimen suitable to the purpose and the con-
stitution, which latter property varies so greatly in
different individuals, that a course which would be
appropriate for one would be prejudicial to many

WASTING.' 199

others. Persons of a spare habit require more
Nourishment than those who have a tendency to
become fat. Some partake of a small portion of
animal food daily, and, by taking plenty of walk-
ing exercise, are enabled to reduce their weight;
while others would not lose many pounds unless they
restricted themselves to a vegetable diet. But, in
general, a small portion of meat once or twice a
week is to be recommended. It should be remem-
bered that training for any athletic purpose, and
wasting, are too widely different objects, although
there are certain observances applicable to both.
The amount of weight which a jockey desires to
disencumber himself of will be a guide, both as
to the regimen which he must adopt, and the time
which will be occupied in the process. The facility
with which some persons can reduce their weight
vastly exceeds that of others. Those who perspire
freely have an advantage in this respect. Two or
three doses of aperient medicine previously to com-
mencing pedestrian exertions are indispensable, not
only for the purpose of decreasing the weight, but
also of preparing the system ; but the quantities of
Epsom salts, which many jockies are in the habit of
swallowing almost daily, cannot be too strongly
denounced. When the stomach and intestines are
very sparingly supplied with food, that medicine is
calculated to promote injurious effects when taken in
large doses. As a laxative, in order to keep the
bowels free, once, or even twTice, in a week they may
be taken without impropriety; although jalap, in
o 4

200 STABLE PRACTICE.

doses of from fifteen to five-and-twenty grains, com-
bined with five or ten grains of nitre, is preferable in
its operation, and less nauseous to the taste. On the
necessity of making a suitable preparation by abste-
miousness and medicine, I will relate a circumstance
which occurred when Heaton Park races tempted
many gentlemen jockies to undergo the ordeal of
wasting. A young friend of mine who had been
enjoying himself at Doncaster during the previous
week, ambitious to distinguish himself in the pio-ski J
and as light weights were likely to be in requisition,
proposed to accompany me in my walks, and without
any introductory preparation, except refraining from
his breakfast on the first morning, having procured
the most suitable woollen fabrics obtainable in Man-
chester, on short notice, with which he enveloped him-
self most profusely, in defiance of my caution not to
overclothe himself, we commenced our toils. We had
not, however, gained the summit of the well-known
Cheetham Hill, about two miles from the town, when
my friend, who was following, called out for me to
stop. On turning round, the only portion of his face
discernible for shawls was as red as crimson, and he
was completely blown. Halting a fewT minutes, I
recommended him to unbutton his great coat, and
relieve himself from some of the comforters with
which his neck was enveloped, suggesting also that
he should return and avail himself of the first vehicle
he might meet with; that, however, he declined,
fancying he would be laughed at. I then proceeded
on my walk, and regained the Albion Hotel just as

WASTING^ 201

ic had crawled home. Commencing in this unpre-
>ared state the exertion of walking, encased as he
ras in flannel and other woollen textures, the great
icat generated in his body being unable to escape in
consequence of the retentive powers of his dress, he
pas completely overcome ; he did not perspire, but
ras in an actual state of fever. A little mutton
iroth, and three or four hours between the blankets,
•pened the pores, and in the course of the evening he
ecovered; but he lost very little if any weight, and
(xperienced considerable temporary inconvenience.
! The first walk should be a short one, the pace
moderate, and the quantity of flannels regulated by
he weather. The usual plan is to walk out a cer-
ain distance, that is from three to four or five miles,
rhere there is an inn or a friend's house, on entering
rhich warm water is used to wash the mouth, a
blanket procured to throw over the head and
boulders, and a glass of some hot beverage taken, to
ncrease the flow of perspiration. On these occasions
are is necessary not to remain too long ; otherwise,
he perspiration ceasing, the flannels, which are wet,
•ecome cold, and in that state a reaction takes place,
iot unattended with danger, and, at all events, re-
[uiring much exertion to get up the steam again.
1 considerable amount of resolution is called into
ction, inasmuch as, fatigue prevailing, few persons
re very anxious to encounter the latter most dis-
ressing portion of the walk. At these times a jockey
Reserves — in fact, he requires — attention ; and for
hat reason, when at home, it is more conducive to

202 STABLE PRACTICE.

his comfort to walk a certain distance, — that is, the
half of what he intends to perform, — and make his
own home his resting-place, where he can be properly
waited upon, and, having refreshed himself again, set
off to complete his task. A route should be selected
sheltered as much as possible from the wind ; and it is
also desirable to arrange it so that the wind may be
at the back when returning or completing the walk;
for meeting a brisk wind, especially when the indi-
vidual is fatigued, will tend very powerfully to check
the flow of perspiration ; and the endeavour should
be to perspire as freely as possible with the leasl
expense of labour. The pace should be regulated
moderately at first, and increased towards the conclu
sion of the walk, in order to enter the house with th<
perspiration flowing profusely. It is a great error t<
walk too fast at first, for, when blown, the perspira-
tion will not escape, and, when greatly fatigued, s
person cannot go fast enough to effect his purpose
When the distance is completed, after having washec
the mouth with warm water, an hour's rest on a bed
covered over with a good allowance of blankets, pre I
vious to which drinking a glass of warm liquid, is tin |
most effectual method to promote the flow of perspi
ration ; and, at the expiration of that time, a largi
foot-bath, wherewith, by the aid of sponges, :
thorough ablution can be performed, is not onl;
highly refreshing, but otherwise salutary. If tfaij
feet are inclined to blister, rubbing the inside of th
stockings with yellow soap is, in most cases, a pre:
ventative; and, with shoes sufficiently capacious

WASTING. 203

wearing two pairs of stockings will tend to avert that
painful injury. When a jockey has occasion to walk
on the morning of a race, it is desirable that he
should start early, so that he may have plenty of
time to become cool previous to dressing himself.
If the weather be cold, this caution is particularly
worthy of attention.

After having taken two or three walks, a person is
better able to perform that labour, but he will not
reduce himself at the same ratio. He may get off
Ifive or six pounds the first walk, three or four the
second ; but after that the weight will be diminished
jin small proportions. Self-control is a virtue which
ja jockey must possess, for if he indulges himself with
|only one satisfactory meal, he will not find himself
much lighter after his morning's exertions. To see a
good dinner on the table, and a party of friends par-
taking thereof, after a severe walk, when a jockey has
a very keen appetite, requires some resolution to with-
stand ; and the better plan is to keep away from such
temptations. Take a stroll during the period, just
drop in at pudding-time, and so endeavour to cheat
yourself into the idea that you have dined.

To enumerate precisely the diet which a wasting
jockey should partake of, would be something akin to
dictating what he should prefer ; and, as he must be
restricted in quantity, it is but fair he should indulge
fiimself with that which he likes best, provided he
confines himself to such kinds of food as are adapted
to the purpose. A similar remark applies to beve-
rage, with the exception of spirituous liquors undi-

204 STABLE PRACTICE.

luted. Provided the quantity is controlled, a man's
taste is his best monitor ; but the very general prac-
tice of constantly smoking cannot be too strongb
deprecated. Many do it with the idea that it allay
the cravings of the appetite ; but, if it does, it is a
the expense of a vast amount of vigour which enable
a person to walk. I do not mean to infer that ;
jockey is to be denied the gratification of smokinj
moderately if he likes it, — for, in all conscience, h
undergoes many privations ; but I feel convinced tha
inveterate smoking, with a view of keeping down th
weight, is a most mistaken and injurious practice.

205

CHAP. XXI.

EACE BIDING.

lace Riding as a Profession for Gentlemen.— Difficulty of the Art.
— Incapability of young Jockies. — Attainment of Superiority.—
Comparison between good and inferior Jockies. — Integrity. _
Initiation— Patience — Pace.— Definition of theTerm.— Examples.
—Peculiarity of Temper and Action.— Indications of Pace.— Start-
ing.—Precautions. — Starting when the Orders are to wait.—
Starting when the Orders are to make running. — Securing a good
Start.— Challenges in running. —Distinction between Jockies

| and Boys respecting Orders. — Turning Courses. — A Rule of

| Racing. —Example thereon.— Queries. — A fine Race.— A Strata-
gem. — Disadvantage of making running. — The Rush.— Pre-

| paring to set to, and finishing. — Whip and Spurs. — Praise and
Censure. — Circumstances which denote the Propriety of making
a waiting Race. — Of making Play.

Considering the enormous responsibility connected
vith the occupation of a jockey, there exists no
tstensible reason why it should not be an employment
or the better orders of society, to whom nature has
jiot been too prodigal in bulky proportions, and who
equire some remunerative engagement as a source
|»f living. Many of our celebrated jockies have
faised themselves from a state of comparative depend-
ence to affluence by superior skill and integrity. It
s a calling which by no means entails a necessity for
garity or association with persons of low habits,

<

206 STABLE PRACTICE.

and, with a character established for skill and honour
it is a lucrative one. Employment is constant!]
sought by gentlemen for their sons in public office
and on railways, where the compensation affords bu
a bare existence. They have to give security for pro
bity; yet no undertaking of the kind is expect©
from a jockey, although he has frequently the contrc
over thousands. Ere steam-engines sent coaches o
the road, many men of good birth sought the occupa
tion of driving to augment their resources : assuredl
race riding is quite as aristocratic. But at the sam
time that it is a lucrative engagement, proficiency i
the calling, united with undeviating honour, leads t
fame.

The general opinion that this is an accomplishmei
difficult of acquirement may appear paradoxica
when we see so many lilliputian, infantile compet
tors riding, and often successfully, against olde
wiser, and more practised heads. Of many of tl
important points in the science of riding sue
juveniles cannot, by any possibility, have any exp<
rience ; of some others, they cannot possess tl
physical power to put what instructions can be give
to them into effect. They sit on; and the hors(
which they ride, for the most part, run their o\v
races : the extreme lightness of the weight — if sixt
pounds avoirdupois can be called weight — enable
them to win, provided the natural tempers of th
animals induce them to run kindly ; but if the
require riding, in the common acceptation of th
term, their success must be very problematica

II ACE RIDING. 207

Sluggish horses take a great deal of rousing and
holding together to induce them to exert themselves ;
those which are irritable, and inclined to pull till they
lave spent themselves, can have but little chance
with very light boys, who cannot either rouse the
one or restrain the other. How the horses get safely
round the turns on country courses, when ridden by
very light weights, is perfectly miraculous. These
ire circumstances which must not lead to the misap-
prehension that great superiority is not attainable in
:he science, — one on which it is much easier to express
)pinions than to put them in practice. When we con-
template the splendid performances of our first-rate
iockies, and compare them with the miserable pre-
tensions of others possessing similar physical capa-
bilities, the distinction suggests that there must be
fomething more than ordinary endowments necessary
to the attainment of eminence in this calling ; and
|vhen it is likewise granted" that the artistes and the
miffs have equal opportunities of becoming profi-
cients in the art, the assumption becomes the more
orobable. There are evidently many qualities essen-
ial to the acquirement. The symmetrical propor-
,ion of the body may be mentioned as one, which,
Jthough it cannot influence many important qualities,
Certainly does that of firmness and elegance of seat.
JYithout having any connection with a jockey's skill,
ptegrity of purpose is a virtue not to be disregarded ;
or, however accomplished he may be, if his character
le once tarnished, he may exclaim with the jealous
jyloor, "Othello's occupation's gone!''

20S STABLE PRACTICE.

The preliminary instructions which boys usually re-
ceive in this art are in riding trials where experienced
jockies can give them directions during the contest.
A horse tolerably easy to ride, and not required to
make running, is most suitable for the purpose.
The importance of sitting still, the seat, proper posi-
tion of the hands, and such like precautions, will
naturally be instilled into the youth in riding exer-
cise; and, if he has not profited by the instructions,
he is not worthy of this promotion. He has now to
learn the necessity of patience. All tyros are in too
great haste to get home, — a fault very prevalent in
riding exercise ; but in riding exercise, each lad
having a place assigned to him, it is the fault of the
one who leads the gallop if the pace be too strong.
Some idea of pace may be gained in riding trials,
but thorough discretion in that very important
quality can only be acquired by extensive practice
and shrewd observation. It is not simply the pace
with regard to time that should be exclusively under-
stood by this expression, but more distinctly with
reference to the animals engaged, and the weights
they are carrying. To explain this more at large;
a moderate horse, aged, carrying 8 st. 10 lb., will run
the Ditch mile at Newmarket in 1 minute and 50
seconds, and a good three years old, with 8 st. 7 lb.,
will perform the same distance in 1 minute and 40
seconds. A jockey cannot form an opinion during
the race which of these times will be occupied in
running the distance, neither would he profit by such
a calculation, because the pace with reference to

RACE RIDING. 209

time must be subservient to the qualities of the
horses engaged; his object, therefore, is to regulate
his own pace comparatively with the powers of the
horse he is riding and the animals he has to contend
against. Experience enables a jockey to discover
when his own horse is overpaced, by his manner of
going: in this he has to distinguish the difference
between the horse pulling from anxiety to go faster,
or hanging on his arms from distress. To this end it
is essential that he should be acquainted with the
animal's disposition ; for there are some which will
not try to run a yard after they have left off pulling ;
others that will continue to answer every reasonable
effort ; many that will cease to exert themselves unless
their riders are pulling at them ; and idle horses that
will not pull at all, yet require to be held fast by
the head, and to be roused all the way. These pecu-
liarities must be ascertained to enable a jockey to dis-
tinguish the effect of pace, in which he will likewise be
guided by watching the action of the horses opposed
to him. The movements of his contemporaries will
also give some indications which may be turned to ac-
count ; for example, whether their horses are pulling,
or being urged to greater exertions, provided they are
in such a position that their tactics can be seen ; but
a shrewd jockey, who is riding a waiting race, will
endeavour as much as possible to follow the tracks of
the horse he has most reason to fear, in whicli situa-
tion he cannot be seen by the person who is making
the running. Most horses follow in that way with
the least inconvenience ; whereas, if they lay wide on

p

210 STABLE PRACTICE.

either side, their endeavours to go up to their adver-
saries will often cause them to pull and exert them-
selves unnecessarily. There are of course exceptions ;
and this is one of the events by which the artiste is
distinguished from the muff, when the former adopts
those tactics most suitable to the horse he may be
riding. The quick discernment of these particulars is
another feature of essential importance. If he does
not catch the ball upon the hop, in all probability it
will not again be within his reach. The mind, as well
as the body, is most energetically engaged during a
race.

When a young jockey is put up to ride a race, one of
the first directions given to him will be, to get a good
start, — a caution unnecessary to one of experience.
At the same time, this instruction requires to be quali-
fied, the natural properties of the animal consulted,
the way the race is to be ridden, and the distance,
considered. Some horses get into their action imme-
diately, others do not ; and, unless they are allowed
time to fall into their stride, will be inevitably beaten
by injudiciously hurrying them. The former of these
will sometimes cut down their opponents in the first
quarter of a mile from their quickness, although they
may not be the speediest, as there is a distinction
between quickness and speed. A speedy animal,
with great length of stride, is not, in general, a good
beginner, but his success depends upon his efforts
being reserved for the final rush.

Presuming a waiting race is to be ridden, it is
highly desirable to get well off, when the horse must

RACE RIDING. 211

be drawn back, and steadily held at a pace which he
can continue, at the same time never to lie so far
away from the leading horses as to endanger the pos-
sibility of reaching them, unless they are rattling
away at a pace they cannot maintain, in which case
a jockey's ability will be evinced by patiently pre-
serving his horse till his opponents, having tired
themselves, diminish their speed, or, in racing lan-
guage, come back to him. If it is deemed desirable
to make the running, having secured a favourable
start, the animal is sent striding along at such a pace
as may be expected will defeat the others, nursing a
sufficiency of power for the final struggle — the most
difficult part of the science. In short races a good
start is half the battle. To effect a good start, each
horse's temper has to be consulted. With many it
is a difficult point to prevent their jumping off
before their competitors, others are ready on the
first indication of the hand, and such as are idly dis-
posed require the assistance of the spurs. In any
case, in order to have perfect command, the jockey sits
well back in his saddle, without attempting to raise
himself in his stirrups, till the horse is in his stride.

A very important caution to be given is, not to race
with every adversary who may be so disposed, and
to avoid, as much as possible, another horse running
parallel with your horse's head, even though you may
not be going at your best pace. Such an honour
may be politely declined in two ways : if your horsej
is going well within himself, and can without difficult]
dispose of his friend in a few strides, it is advisable1
i> 2

212 STABLE PRACTICE.

to do so, as, in all probability, that will settle his
pretensions to further distinction : but this must be
attended with great caution, and not repeated with
other animals, which, with a numerous field, would
certainly be productive of defeat. The other plan is,
to pull behind ; and that likewise must be performed
discreetly, or you may lose ground by doing so. A
jockey riding a waiting race, with discretionary
orders, entertaining a doubt whether his horse has
the best turn of speed, will be very probably inclined
to go up to the horse he has .to fear at a distance
from home, and endeavour to satisfy himself upon
that point ; but it is the fault of his opponent if he
gains any thing by the attempt, unless positive orders
have been given to the opponent aforesaid to make
the running throughout. When a jockey is desired
to make running, or to ride a waiting race, without
any discretionary power, he has, of course, no alter-
native but to put those orders into effect to the
utmost of his power ; but a distinction should always
be made between the inexperienced and the accom-
plished jockey, especially if the latter has a previous
knowledge of the character of the horse he is about
to ride. In that case he is the most competent per-
son to advise how the race should be ridden. Boys
must necessarily have their orders, and it will depend
upon a variety of circumstances whether they are able
to put them into effect; but,- having 'previously given
them ample instructions on the principles of race
riding, the more simple the final orders, the less likely
are they to be forgotten or misunderstood. On a

RACE RIDING. 213

turning course it is very necessary to keep as near as
possible to the inside, that being the shortest distance
to the winning post ; and it is also important to avoid
being driven out at the turns by other horses ; never-
theless, it is contrary to the rules of riding to force
an antagonist on the wrong side of a post, or to cross
him in such a way as to prevent his getting up. There
is a complicated rule of racing law, rather difficult to
comprehend. It is thus expressed — " And when one
horse crosses the track of another next behind him, it
shall be deemed a sufficient cause of complaint, even
though he be a clear length or more before the horse
whose track he crosses ; it being desirable, that when
once the jockey has taken his ground he should not
prevent any other jockey from coming up, either on
his right or left hand." This is quite practicable on
a straight course ; but, supposing only six horses run
over Chester or any similar course, — if the rule were
to be adopted to the letter, — No. 1. having taken
his ground nearest to the rails, No, 2. next to him,
and so on, the sixth, or outside horse, would have to
run somewhere about the middle of the course, and,
by so doing, would be compelled to travel thirty or
forty yards further than No. 1. There is also
another feature in this rule, supposing it to be carried
out, — by what authority has any horse a right to
assume the inner portion of the circle ? The expres-
sion " a clear length, or more" is likewise very
indefinite, — how much more than a clear length is
admissible in establishing a case ? In further oppo-
sition to this clause, it is exceedingly unfair that one
p 3

214 STABLE PRACTICE.

horse should run up to another on the inside at a
turn, and force the latter out of his ground. In such
a case there might be a foundation for a charge of
josfling ; but, providing the offender did not come in
first, or another horse the property of the same per-
son, a complaint would be of no avail.

Presuming a race to have been ridden with the
most perfect discretion to the distance post, and two
or three horses, of nearly equal pretensions, have
arrived at that point, the acme of the jockies' supe-
rioritv remains to be tested in the final struggle.

•/ Co

Here the caution with which he has ridden so far will
be manifest ; but he has now to decide whether in a
few strides he can effectually dispose of his oppo-
nents, or whether by a well timed effort of speed he
can land his horse first on the post by an electrical
rush. At this crisis, riding is a, nervous and critical
engagement. Instances are not wanting of highly
accomplished jockies having been defeated, or rather
outwitted, by keen-sighted opponents. For instance,
it shall be supposed a jockey has won his race fifty
yards from the winning post, with enough left in his
horse for an increased effort of speed, if necessary,
but, looking round to the right, to see if that
antagonist has a chance of reaching him, another
horse which has stolen up to him unexpectedly, slips
up on the other side, and wins before he is aware of
the nearness of such an adversary. This stratagem
is performed after the following fashion: — The jockey
finding he has not a chance of winning by superiority
of speed, yet enabled to lay well up, follows track

EACE RIDING. 215

for track with the leading, and we will assume the
superior horse, where watching the rider in the ex-
pectation that he will turn his head either right or
left, with a well directed effort passes him on the con-
trary side to that which he happens to look. The
following are cases in which the disadvantages of
making running may be exemplified: — those jockies
who are waiting have a better opportunity of watch-
ing the action of the horses and their riders ; they can
see when a horse's long compounding stride is ex-
changed for short laborious efforts, stas^erin^ in his
gallop ; they can see when their opponents' spurs are
at work, however insidiously they are applied ; they
can see every motion of the hands, and are therefore
enabled to profit by observation.

The final " set-to," or as it is with equal propriety
termed, " the finish," is an accomplishment not easily
attained. To behold silk jackets in convulsions is a
distressing sight, but yet it is one too frequently
witnessed. Skill, elegance, and determination in this
art, mark the distinction between the superior jockey
and the muff. When the set-to becomes necessary,
the rider prepares himself and his horse for it,
by sitting well down in his saddle, collecting his
horse, and taking the reins usually in the left hand,
(unless he has the power of using the whip with
either, in which case the position of his adversaries
will be the best guide) ; he then turns his whip, by
passing the three outer fingers underneath, and is
then enabled to make use of that instrument, if the
spurs fail in their intentions. Not that much benefit
r 4

216 STABLE PRACTICE.

often results from it, except with game but indolent
animals ; and in using both that and the spurs, unless
the horse is found to respond to the call, good feeling
and prudence forbid their use. Inflicting pain on an
animal when he is doing his best, is not only wanton
cruelty, but appears something like punishing him
because he is going as fast as his powers will enable
him.

Horses have retentive memories, and there is no
doubt many will cease to struggle at the moment
they are called upon to do so from reminiscences of
former punishment.

The termination of a well ridden race is an en-
thusiastic moment, not merely with the spectators,
but also with the performers. Many a winnino-
jockey is lauded to the skies for his incomparable ex-
hibition of jockey ship; yet the unlucky wight who
happens to be second, although he may have evinced
greater skill, seldom receives any honours, and is
frequently censured for not having made his rush
earlier — for having made it too soon — for havinc
made the pace too strong — or not fast enough, — in
short, for having attempted, or having omitted to do,
something it was not in his power to accomplish.

Whether it is most judicious to make running, or
ride a waiting race, is a question to be settled by a
variety of circumstances. The natural endowments
of the horse are paramount considerations, — his age,
condition, the weights, the distance, the character
(whether it be assumed or known) of his opponents,
are subjects by which the determination must be

RACE RIDING. 217

governed. So many advantages attend the waiting
principle, that it is most frequently advisable to adopt
it. When there is a considerable number of runners
the pace is usually strong enough ; in such cases, a
ihorse that waits most frequently has the best of it at
the conclusion. The general opinion that, if a horse
has greatly the advantage of weight, he should make
the running, must not be received as an invariable
rule. That a true run race will be favourable to him is
ivery likely, when, if he possesses a good turn of speed,
the lightness of the weight will, in all probability,
enable him to get home by waiting. Here it is
necessary to remark that every horse has his distance ;
land although it does not appear to be in conformity
iwith good judgment to disregard this circumstance,
there may be occasions when it is expedient to do
so : in those cases the best alternative will be to
assimilate the distance as nearly as possible to the
mode of running.

There are, doubtless, many occasions when it is
imperative to make the running : this applies to stout
game horses, having undergone a strong preparation
with favourable weights, but deficient in speed. The
known or assumed want of condition in an opponent
also affords a reason for making the pace effective.

All these events, conjointly or singly, require to be
maturely studied, and the favourable issue denotes
Jthe skill of the owner or trainer in this important
branch of racing tactics.

218 STABLE PRACTICE.

CHAP. XXII.

HANDICAPPING, AND THE EFFECT OF WEIGHT.

Prevailing Taste. — Connection between Betting and Handica}
Races. — Policy of Handicaps. — Tendency to encourage Frauds

— Protest of the Jockey Club. — Penalties for Frauds. — Useles:
Punishment censured. — Qualifications of Handicappers . — Difficul
ties connected with the Duty. — Reasons why the Public are Jer

into Error Pace. — Influence of -Pace. — Light "Weights. — Ar

gument relative to Weights. — Mistaken Notions respecting Weights

— Handicapping dark Horses. — Necessity for a System of Han
dicapping. — Handicappers should see Horses run. — Stratagem
detected. — Extra Weights for Frauds. — The Principle denounce!
by Offenders. — Their Arguments confuted. — Impossibility of Han
dicapping from Paper. — Handicap Committee. — Illicit Practice
defeated by System. — Paid Handicappers. — Horses started a I
Country Meetings, for certain Purposes. — Advantages of a Com
mittee. — Firmness indispensable in a Handicapper. — An Occur
reuce. — Responsibility of Stewards and Committees. — Distinction
between Handicappers, Starters, and Judges of Races. — Re

strictive Powers Owners of Horses and Trainers complete th

Handicaps.

However numerous the objections which may b<
urged against the prevailing number of handicap en-
gagements entered into at every meeting, to inveigl
against them would be useless, for they engross
public favour ; and to attempt to turn the current o:
fashion, although the waters may abound with im-
purities, is an unavailing task. The propensity foi
betting, which has been for years on the increase
and which has arrived at an unprecedented height

HANDICAPPING, AND EFFECT OF WEIGHT. 219

las in a great degree been promoted by handicapping.
Betting has likewise encouraged handicapping; so
hat they have cherished each other, and have each
gained an ascendancy with which it is difficult to
;ontend.

The welfare of racing has a formidable adver-
ary in the present system of handicapping; not
;hat the principle would be objectionable if it could
le fairly dealt with, but the difficulty exists in
vorking that principle justly. Handicap races are
•pen inducements to commit frauds, because they
uggest premiums to persons to run their horses for
stakes which they do not intend to win ; or others,
with, as they imagine, a shade more of compunction
n their consciences, start their horses without giving
hem due and sufficient preparation. Neither in
ogic, theory, or practice, is there much distinction
Detween the two devices ; they are both intended for
the same purpose, that of leading handicappers and
others astray. The Jockey Club give notice of their
extreme disapprobation of horses being started for
races without the intention on the part of the owners
of trying to win with them. To this might be added
kvith equal effect, of horses being started when out of
condition, or of persons in any other way misleading
the public by delusive practices. Such artifices
cannot be controlled by any mandates, rules, or laws ;
they can only be met by disappointing and defeating
the purpose ; in plain terms, by weighting such
horses, not in accordance with their running, but
according to the intended fraud on the part of their

220 STABLE PRACTICE.

owners. There is likewise another difficulty con-
nected with handicapping which cannot be overcome
that is, with respect to horses absolutely and fairh
beaten, and consequently pulled up a long way fron
the winning post. Supposing, for example, a dozei
horses start for a stake, distance one mile ; when i
quarter of a mile from home eight or nine of then
may be in difficulties; and their jockies perceiving that
will not attempt to persevere. Useless, wanton, ill
judged punishment is at all times censurable. A lav
that would promote it would be even more censurabL I
on the part of those who proposed it, than the ac |
itself. No rule or decree could ever be brought int<
effect to compel persons to run their horses to th ;
end when decidedly beaten; and humanity wouL
intercede even if any such rule were to be suggested
To be enabled to make good handicaps it is neces
sary to be well acquainted with pedigrees, and th<
peculiar qualities which are inherited. A handicappe
must, in every sense of the word, be a good judge o
racing, the effects of weight and condition ; moreove:
he should be a very critical observer of mankind; tha
is to say, without there being a necessity for persona
intimacy, it is highly desirable that he should knov,
how to handicap the tactics and intentions of th(
owners, as well as the capabilities of their horses
If horses always ran to win, handicapping would be
a more easy and a far more agreeable duty, and still
there would be quite sufficient in the items where-
with the glorious uncertainty of the turf is iden-
tified, to maintain the aphorism, and create ex-

1 HANDICAPPING, AND EFFECT OF WEIGHT. 221

itement. The supposition that any man can han-
licap a dozen horses to run a mile, which shall all
ome in within three or four lengths of each other,
3 too chimerical to be realised, even if every
lorse had run upon his merits on former occasions,
rhere are the variations of condition, or rather
>erfect fitness on the day, to be anticipated, which no
aortal can determine with accuracy ; the effect which
(articular courses may have on the action of certain
iorses, and the state in which the ground may be on
jhe day of running ; the science of the jockies en-
gaged, the qualifications of some to ride particular
torses, the incapacity of others ; the tempers of
iorses, and other incidents, at all times beyond the
each of human foresight. There is also another
ircumstance which frequently baffles the good in-
entions and skill of a handicapper, — that is, the dis-
ance which horses are able to run. There are many
vhich cannot stay more than a mile, or even that, in
aoderate company ; a vast number that cannot stay
he same distance in good company; and yet these
iorses are to be handicapped to run two miles with
uch a distinction between the weights as shall be sup-
>osed to give each horse a chance. But without an
normous disparity in the weights it is impossible to
:>ring horses together when some can only run half a
aile, and it is the forte of others to run two miles.
fhis is what so often leads the public into error.
Chey conceive, because a horse has run forward in a
hort race, with a certain weight, that in a longer
ace, with a much more liberal allowance, he must

222 STABLE PRACTICE.

win. In many instances a handicapper has no oppor
tunity of knowing the length of ground over wind
certain horses can run, from their not having beei
en^ao-ed in races beyond a given distance ; in som
cases their owners are equally in the dark, from no
having carefully tried them; but it may generall;
be inferred that the course a horse is most frequentl;
in the habit of showing upon, is that which is sup
posed to be the most suitable.

The pace at which a race is run has a most pro
minent influence on the performance of most of th
candidates, and especially with reference to weighl
In fact it is only when the pace is true that th
effect of weight is brought into operation. There i
generally but little to complain of in this respec
with the great handicaps under the present custoi
of exceedingly light weights. It is absurd to sur
pose that children, riding 4 St., can hold all sorts (
horses ; they can merely sit upon them, and if the
can o-uide them, it is as much as can be expected.

One of the prevailing inconsistencies in racing, i
the present time, is the extraordinary infatuation fc
light weights. If a handicap begins at 8 st. 71b
and goes down to 4 st., with any thing like a jus
proportion between the respective animals, there wi
be a good acceptance ; but if it commences at 10 s
7 lb., and descends to 5st. 7 lb., the contented part
will not be numerous. It may be imagined that a
the difference between the highest and lowest weighl
proposed in the light weight handicap is 4 st. 7 lb
the same distinction should be made in the heav

HANDICAPPING, AND EFFECT OF WEIGHT. 223

weight handicap, and therefore the lowest weight in
he latter must be 6 st. 7 lb. ; but that should not be
;he case, because the inferior young ones would re-
quire a trifle more allowance in the higher than the
ower scale. It may be assumed, as one of the rea-
sons why the light handicaps are mostly in favour,
;hat the owner of a good five years old horse
'ancies he cannot give the bad three years old 5 St.,
3ut holds him cheap, giving 4 st. 7 lb. In favour
)f the light weight scale, it will be argued that 4 st.
is nothing for a horse to carry ; but it must be re-
membered that the high weights will admit the ser-
vices of riders with some pretensions on the young
3nes, which in reality more than compensates for the
extreme lightness.

There are many persons who entertain very mis-
taken notions respecting the effect of weight, pre-
suming that a high scale of weights is favourable to
slow horses ; but that is not the case, as a general
principle. If three or four horses are close together,
each carryiDg 9 st., they will not be far apart carry-
ing 12 st., unless it be some weak, bad-actioned,
half- trained brutes not worth keeping ; and even
with them the difference will not be found upon
trial to be very considerable; distance, as I have
already remarked, and the state of the ground, will
make a wonderful alteration.

It frequently happens that a handicap includes
a number of horses that have never run : to ad-
just their weights must be a matter of chance ; for
there is no line to be taken as a guide. The only

224 STABLE PRACTICE.

alternative, in such cases, is to handicap them from
pedigree, — the performance of their sires and dams,
and that of brothers and sisters, if any have been
running ; and at the same time that it would be an
act of injustice to their owners to assign them the
top weights of their year, it would be equally un-
just to other persons to turn them loose.

The practice of handicapping requires remodelling
altogether ; and, to be rendered satisfactory, must be
reduced to a system. It is utterly impossible for
any man to make a just handicap unless he has seen
all the horses run that have been out, or receives
information from some competent person, upon whom
he can rely, who has seen them, and carefully noted
the appearance, condition, and manner of running of
each horse. An attentive and experienced observer
can in most cases detect the stratagem when horses
are brought to the post unprepared, are pulled up
purposely, or do not run to the end. In the first
two cases, the owner should be complimented with
an additional 10 lb. penalty on his horse. Many pre-
cedents have been given for doing so ; and much has
been said and written against it by the offended, or
rather offending, parties; but it is in strict con-
formity with justice.

I remember, some years ago, an instance of this
kind, when much eloquence was expended against
the hardship and alleged cruelty of inflicting upon
the horse the sins of his owner — than which argu-
ment nothing can be more fallacious. No man, en-
dowed with Nature's inestimable gift — the common

HANDICAPPING, AND EFFECT OF WEIGHT. 225

feeling of humanity — would ever lend himself to the
punishment of an animal for the purpose of retaliating
on his delinquent master. But that is not the spirit
in which it is clone, or the effect produced ; the in-
tent and meaning of a handicap is to adjust the
weights so equitably that the chances of every one
shall, in human estimation, be the same. A man
who has been running his horse, to " get him well
in," as it is termed, will not punish the horse by
running him with the extra weight, — and even if he
did, the twofold sin would lie on him, — but rather
than run, he will pay the forfeit ; in which case, it
is the owner's pocket and not the animal which
suffers. To handicap horses fairly from their run-
ning, on paper is out of the question. Suppose, for
example, a horse is returned as having been beaten
ten lengths, which is tantamount to the expression
that it was no race at all, ergo no trial ; in such a
case, it is not improbable, the winner could have
won double or treble the distance with any thing to
run him in ; and it is equally probable, had the
second horse persevered, which he may or may not
have done, that he could have got nearer than ten
lengths at the winning post. A person who sees a
race so terminated has a far better chance of forming
a correct estimate of the true form of the horses
which ran, than he can possibly do by the vague
intimation already mentioned. One individual could
not, by any possibility, see every race that is run, as
it frequently happens that there are two or three
meetings on the same day in distant parts of the

Q

226 STABLE PRACTICE.

kingdom. No other plan than that of having a
committee of experienced persons to make the handi-
caps can ever be satisfactory. They are as necessary
to form a portion of the staff of the turf as Messrs.
Hibburd, the starter ; Clarke, the judge ; and Man-
ning, the president over the scales. These stakes
have now grown to so much importance as to render
such an arrangement evidently requisite. Twenty
years ago there was not the same occasion for it ;
handicap races were not so numerous, neither was
there any thing like the number of horses entered
for the respective stakes. A system has been adopted
by a certain class of racing men, to take advantage
of their competitors ; and it has, therefore, become
desirable to adopt a system to defeat their purposes.
Many of the great handicaps are made by persons
who are employed by the committees, and are, con-
sequently, paid for their labour. When the person
selected has been one of experience, the result has
usually been successful : but there are many objec-
tions against the employment of one person only to
make the handicaps, — not because it would be im-
practicable to select one perfectly free from bribery,
corruption, or contamination of any kind, or who
would be deficient in every species of probity, or
the knowledge which is requisite, — but simply be-
cause the faculty of ubiquity cannot be procured,
and it is imperative that every meeting in the
kingdom should be attended. Horses are sent to
little, unimportant country meetings, to run for
trifling stakes, which they do not win, in order to

HANDICAPPING, AND EFFECT OF WEIGHT. 227

get light weights in future handicaps, quite as fre-
quently as to the popular races. It is an invidious
position for any individual to be placed in, if singly
he is subjected to the attacks of dissatisfied persons :
that would, in a great measure, be * obviated if the
handicaps were made by a committee. It would be
the committee, not an individual member of that
committee, who had decided upon the weights ; and
no person would be so foolish as to evince discourtesy
to a respectable body, possessing much influence.

No man should ever attempt to make a handicap,
unless he has resolution sufficient to bear with calm-
ness the insignificant remarks that may be passed
upon it ; and if any owners of horses are so indiscreet
as to behave discourteously to a handicapper, the
better way to ensure their respect in future is, for
him to favour their horses with a trifle more weight
on subsequent occasions. I was once placed in this
predicament. At a country meeting I was requested,
by one of the stewards, who was not a racing man, to
assist him in making a free handicap of all the horses
at the meeting ; and when it was published, a certain
individual, knowing I was concerned in fixing the
weights, attacked me with much discourtesy, declaring
he would not accept. My reply was, he must please
himself, but I doubted whether he would find his
horse more favourably regarded. On the following
day his horse won a plate ; and there was a forced
handicap as a finale, with which I was entrusted. I
put 5 lb. on this person's horse for winning the
plate, and 7 lb. extra for his impertinence : he
q 2

228 STABLE PRACTICE.

started for the forced handicap, and won it ; and I
have assisted in making several handicaps since, in
which the same individual's horses have been entered,
but I have experienced no recurrence of his in-
civility.

"Whether the stewards or committees of race meet-
ings make the handicaps themselves, or depute other
persons to do so, the former ought to be regarded as
responsible for the justness of their handicaps. In the
first instance, the proposal emanates from them ; and
as they have the power of fixing the weights, or in
the event of their feeling themselves inadequate to j
that task, of appointing a deputy, the onus of the
composition ought, most undeniably, to rest with

them.

Handicappers are in a different position to starters
and judges of races. Until the event is decided, the
weight which any horse ought to carry is a matter
of opinion. The fairness of a start is a matter of
fact, and so is the decision of the judge. A starter
has the power of levying a penalty, or fine of money,
on any jockey who attempts to take unfair advan-
tage; and, on the same principle, a handicapper
ought to be armed with the authority to award I
penalty in the form of weight upon every horse that
has been run unfairly. The fiat of a judge is scarcely
ever impeached. A handicap committee would go far
to discourage the expression of captious, vexatious,
and impertinent cavillings. If it were not thought
expedient to invest them with the power of appor-
tioning extra weight for notorious offences or petty

HANDICAPPING, AND EFFECT OF WEIGHT. 229

delinquencies, that difficulty might be readily over-
come by an understanding that such penalties should
be awarded on representing the cause or causes to
the stewards, in whom the power now exists.

After all, it must be remembered that it is the
owners of horses and their trainers who give the
finishing touch to the handicaps. It is they who
separate the worthy from the unworthy ; and if a
handicapper makes mistakes in overweighting those
which are beaten off, how much greater reason have
the owners to feel annoyed with themselves for
running, than with the handicapper, who had held
the animals in too great estimation, without having
the same opportunities of ascertaining their real
qualifications.

Q 3

230 STABLE PRACTICE.

CHAP. XXIII.

REMARKS.

Commencement of Racing. — Progress of Racing. — Introduction
of Betting. — Book -making. — Importance of Betting to Racing.

— A Delusion. — "Way in which Betting is prejudicial to
the Turf. — Analysis of Betting. — Popularity of Racing. —
Effects of populous Meetings. — Present Condition of Racing. —
A Glance at the Rules of Racing. — Racing as an Amusement for
the People. — Not suitable as a Speculation for the Million. — Effects
of Handicaps on the Breed of Horses. — Then Effects on Racing.

— Comparison of the Condition of Hunters and Race-horses. —
Condition promoted by suitable Food. — Necessity of pure Ah* and
Exercise. — Large Enclosures not conducive to Exercise. — Com-
parison. — Evils of large Pasture-fields. — Reasons why half-bred
Stock is, in general, longer in coming to Maturity than thorough-
bred. — Argument. — Conclusion.

Racing in this kingdom is generally considered to
have originated in the reign of Henry II., when the
young citizens of London were wont to assemble on
Sunday mornings during Lent for the purpose of
exercising and divertino; themselves on horseback at
Smithfield, — or, as it was then called, Smoothfield,
— where they exhibited a sort of tournament, armed
with shields and lances ; the younger branches
amusing themselves with racing. There are, how-
ever, no records of the results; and although it
is probable these diversions were never entirely dis-
continued, it was not till the reign of James I. that

REMARKS. 231

public races were established. From that period we
may date the commencement of this amusement as a
national spectacle, which, with some interruptions
during the disturbed era of the Commonwealth,
have been gradually advancing to the present day.
James I., Charles I., Oliver Cromwell, and Charles
II., individually countenanced the establishment of
racing by importing sires and dams to infuse noble
blood among the native breed of horses, and the
Merry Monarch gave great encouragement to the
diversion ; but I am not able to discover any regular
records of racing performances till the time of Queen
Anne, who patronised the sport by keeping horses
and offering gold cups for prizes. Thus it is near
upon two centuries and a half since racing com-
menced as a public amusement ; and about one
century and a half, that Ave are in possession of
documentary evidence of events. Very great ad-
vancement is perceptible during the last five-and-
twenty years.

When betting was first introduced as an addi-
tional excitement is a fact which cannot be accurately
determined ; but it was evidently in operation as
early as 1718, when one Thomas Duck, who was
riding a horse named Crutches, at York, on whom
high odds were laid, and who was leading near the
distance, threw himself off intentionally : thus a man
incurred the risk of breaking his bones to do that
which is now perhaps sometimes accomplished, but
with less danger, less probability of detection, and
q 4

232 STABLE PRACTICE.

with more adroitness. The period when book-making
was ushered into existence, was not, in all probability,
till the St. Legers, Derbys, and Oaks engagements
had assumed an importance. The "ring," like a
goodly family, has increased vastly ; and if it con-
tinues to multiply in a similar ratio, it will in the
course of time include every member of the human
species.

Some of the most zealous supporters of the turf
sanction and approve of betting, and argue that it is
essential to the interest of breeders, and owners of
race-horses, affording them opportunities of augment-
ing their profits, whereby they expect to meet the
outlay of capital incidental to the enterprise for which
the mere chance of winning public stakes is held to
be insufficient. I rather fancy there is some delusion
in this. If betting could be confined within the
limits of moderation it would be another affair ; but
it is in consequence of the immense stakes upon
various great events that the infamous practices of
making horses safe are resorted to. The unfortunate
extent which such species of robberies have reached
renders it very difficult on all occasions to guard
against them. The majority of those who make
books live by that means, and their annual expenses
are not trifling items ; they no doubt, in many in-
stances, gain extensively from the public; but I
am quite inclined to the belief that they draw
annually a vast deal more money from the turf, that
is from owners of horses, than they, the betting com-

REMARKS. 233

munity, pay to those sources. A nobleman or gentle-
man may have a very superior horse engaged in
a popular stake : he may back the horse ; the exciting
propensity for betting enables him to do so to an un-
limited amount, and probably enables him to obtain
longer odds than he would otherwise be able to pro-
cure ; but what is the very frequent result ? Various
attempts to make the horse safe are devised, which,
when they are successful, necessarily occasion loss.
These peculations cannot enrich breeders and owners
of horses ; and I think, on the average, those who are
actually engaged in the legitimate pursuit of racing,
will acknowledge they do not derive a profit from
betting on their own horses. An objectionable in-
fluence may be recognised as the companion of heavy
betting in the inducement afforded to persons having
control over horses to perpetrate nefarious actions.
What would cause a man to draw his horse at the
eleventh hour, when quite well and fit to run for a
great stake, but the money he can gain through
agents by betting against his horse ? Entering a
horse for a race implies, in its abstract meaning, the
desire of the owner to win the stake ; and in that
light the public are entitled to consider the trans-
action. Then, again, the owner of the horse does not
compel people to bet, though, by specious persuasion,
le may sometimes be the occasion of their doing so.
[t is a voluntary act, and as such, when men bet and
ose their money, it should operate as a caution not to
suffer themselves to be duped in future. If people

234 STABLE PRACTICE.

bet concerning events over which they have no con-
trol, — but over which, to a certain extent, others
have, — it behoves those who are determined to
speculate, to ascertain, as nearly a3 possible, the pro-
bable intentions of those who are invested with so
much influence. To render humanity immaculate is
an impossibility ; and in pecuniary transactions it
only betrays ignorance of human nature whenever a
proper want of caution is displayed.

An analysis of betting really exhibits some very
curious anomalies. Bets are transactions founded on
the opinion or judgment of one person contrasted
Avith that of another. They are transactions depen-
dent entirely upon the honour of each party, because
there is no legal authority to compel ' the liquidation
of contracts, or adjudicate on disputes. Bets on
horse-races are decided by events upon which the
most dishonourable tricks are capable of being prac-
tised ; and although it cannot be denied that there
are a vast number of fraudulent devices concocted,
it is more than doubtful whether they are in equal
ratio with similar delinquencies perpetrated in the
commercial world, and other fields for speculation
where law exists for protection.

An excessive amount of betting certainly attracts
a vast concourse of people to the scene of action
whenever any great event has to be disposed of, but
whether it is conducive to the welfare of racing
appears very questionable. However the million
may contribute to the increase of attendance at a race

REMAKES. 235

meeting, and thereby augment the receipts of grand
stands, and other places of accommodation and
amusement, it is the nobility and gentlemen who
breed and keep horses who are the real supporters of
racing. At the same time, it is fair to remember,
that at most meetings the public contribute something
towards the expenses, inasmuch as sums of money
are often given by proprietors of grand stands, rail-
way companies, and others, who derive profits from
the multitude. There has been a conflicting struggle
for some time past as to whether racing should main-
tain its original character as a national amusement,
or become a pursuit of speculation. With some ex-
ceptions, so far as those are concerned who are
actually engaged in it, it has very nearly arrived at
the latter condition. And yet thousands attend the
course merely as spectators to enjoy a holiday.

There is great occasion for a revision of the rules
by which racing transactions are controlled, for they
have not been altered and adapted in all cases to
meet circumstances. Speculative engagements re-
quire rules and restrictions which are not essential to
the prosperity of an amusement. A law to restrain
the great propensity which reigns among the people,
for betting on horse-racing, would unquestionably
afford a great assistance to the sport, whether it be
regarded as a national amusement, or a speculative
engagement: such laws would no doubt be intro-
duced with a view to the preservation of public
morals; still their effects on racing would be equally

236 STABLE PBACTICE.

beneficial. Simply received as an amusement, racing
presents many attractions to the public. It enables
the peer and the peasant to enjoy one object ; and it
is quite certain the lower orders conduct themselves
with more decorum in those assemblies, where their
superiors preside over them ; and so long as the
tradesman, mechanic, or labourer, conducts himself
with propriety, he is as much entitled to the enjoy-
ment of a popular field sport or spectacle, as his
patron or employer ; and it is really wonderful, but
exceedingly gratifying, that such immense numbers
should congregate together without committing any
kind of disturbance or acts of confusion. But when
persons, who have other occupations, meddle with
the machinery of the race-course, they assuredly in-
volve themselves in difficulties, as much as a jockey
would if he were to attempt to amuse himself with
mules and spinning-jennies. The public amusements
of a nation ought to be common to all, but it is im-
possible for different classes to enter promiscuously
into engagements and occupations of a private nature;
their manners and modes of living are widely dif-
ferent, and indeed opposed to each other, and the
properties of distinction must be preserved. Repub-
lican principles may be very delightful in theory,
but when put in practice in old countries they pro-
duce constant contentions and revolutions.

The very commonly expressed opinion that handi-
caps are conducive to the production of a weedy,
degenerate class of horses requires to be qualified.

REMARKS. 237

That they are the very hot-beds of fraud there is
little doubt, and they certainly are means whereby a
worthless wretch is sometimes enabled to realise a
good stake ; but that is not logically an encourage-
ment to persons to breed powerless stock; it is
simply an inducement to persons to breed a greater
number, and in that greater number the fair assump-
tion is that there will be a proportion of good ones.
When handicaps are conducted upon the principle,
that every horse which runs fairly to win is weighted
according to his merits, and every horse that does
not run honestly is weighted according to the inten-
tions of his owner, then will handicapping no longer
retain an objectionable position on the British Turf.
Taking into consideration the sreat attention be-
stowed on the condition of hounds, and, consequently,
the pace at which they cross the country, it needs
but very little argument to show that hunters which
are to accompany them require to be quite as fit
as race-horses, and the means of promoting their
condition is nearly alike. Hunters are called upon
to go indefinite distances at considerable speed over
all kinds of ground, — some hard, some deep and
holding. E ace-horses are only required to run spe-
cified distances. The bodily exertion which they
undergo in running is therefore frequently less se-
vere than that of hunters. It is the ordeal of train-
ing race-horses that involves the principal portion of
their labours, and it is the quantity and pace of
preparatory work which forms the distinction be-

238 STABLE PRACTICE.

tween the treatment of the two. In the stable no
difference should be observed.

The difficulties of the trainer and hunting groom
will be very greatly diminished, if the animals placed
under their care have been well managed in their
younger days. The recommendations which I have
offered are such as are calculated to produce that
effect. By the selection of the most appropriate
food, namely, hay and corn, as the prevailing source
of nourishment, in preference to a quantity of green,
succulent food, the healthy condition of the blood is
promoted, which, as I have endeavoured to explain,
is the source from whence health is derived, and also
the formation of those elements which constitute
muscular fibre — tendinous substances, and bone.
This must be assisted with a pure atmosphere, and
an abundance of exercise bordering on work suitable
at all seasons to the age and constitution of the
subject. It is absurd to suppose that these desi-
derata are to be obtained by enlargement in spacious
grass fields or parks abounding in herbage, where the
exercise of the occupants cannot be expected to assi-
milate with the proportion or extent of the pasture ;
if so, an immense expanse would be the most desirable ;
but horses seldom, if ever, take more exercise in
enclosures of one hundred acres than in paddocks of
one acre. In either case, they saunter about in
search of food ; but that is not exercise conducive
to the vigorous development of the frame. As well

REMARKS. 239

might we call that man in condition who enjoys his
ease during the winter season in London, and in the
summer lounges on the parades of Brighton, or other
watering places, compared with another who devotes
his time to fox-hunting and other field sports in their
succession, with cricket to keep up the exercise in
summer.

In large fields horses may, at times, be alarmed
and excited to gallop about ; and having done so to
the inducement of perspiration, they stand still to
cool themselves, and lay the foundation of incurable
disorders. Upon that principle, any restriction of
food essential to health is impossible. This is one of
the chief reasons why half-bred stock reared by the
generality of farmers is not so capable of enduring
as much labour at five years old as thorough -bred
ones, treated as they ought to be, and as they gene-
rally are, at four years old. Yet, when properly
managed, half-bred stock are equally fit for work at
the early period.

The aid of arithmetic is not necessary to prove
that if an animal is rendered capable of performing,
at four years old, what another is not equal to endure
until the succeeding year, whereby an unnecessary
addition of expense is incurred, the former is the
most profitable course.

With this brief summary I will therefore close my
labours, in the hope that the observations conveyed
in this little work may assist in bringing many win-

240 STABLE PRACTICE.

ners to the post; whose success, in the hands of
popular sportsmen, will be hailed with enthusiasm ;

and also, that such as may be devoted to the

hunting field will, on numerous occasions, carry their
riders in prominent positions, and bear them to the
end of many a good chase to join in the exulting
Who— oop !

THE END.

London :

Spottiswoodes and Shaw,

New-street-Square.

^.V-^^^.v^^fc*^^