INTRODUCTION.

Ir is to be regretted that, in this nation of horsemen, riding, as practised in the schools, should have fallen into disuse; for the manége is the foundation of horsemanship. This neglect is owing, in a great measure, to the prejudice that once prevailed against the formal seat and the unnecessary But, in most

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airs of la haute-école.

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countries of Europe, school-riding has advanced with the age, and it is now recognised, by the professors of the art, that each man has a seat peculiar to himself, and those movements only are practised that are necessary to give the rider control over his horse under all circumstances.

When we see that school-riding, in one form or another, is used in all armies, and, and, indeed, wherever the horse must be under command, it is hardly necessary to argue the importance of a knowledge of its laws by all who desire to ride well. And although in the extended gallop of the huntingfield, it is impossible to retain the equilibrium of the manége, the horse will be the more amenable for his

schooling, and the rider will always have the resources of his art.

I think that it is a mistake to place children of tender age upon horseback, for there is nothing to be gained in such a course that will compensate for the risk of injuries they may receive. An active man may learn to ride well at any age; and a bold boy of fourteen, who comprehends the system upon which he is taught, will in six months become a better horseman than the lad who has been riding six years according to his own ideas. It is not given to all men to excel in riding courage activity, a perfect temper, and aptitude for the exercise are requisite for the acquirement of But a knowledge

the highest skill.

of a proper method will give to every one comparative immunity from the dangers that attend horsemanship. A schooled horse, confiding in his master and obedient to the spur, is not apt to try his powers in rebellion; and when in hand and properly gathered he will recover from a mistake that might otherwise prove disastrous.

In these papers I have endeavoured to present a system of riding and training by which the pupil may become his own master.

For many years I have been schooling horses for my recreation, and I have had advice and instruction from some of the most accomplished horsemen of our day. In particular I owe my acknowledgments to Mr. Joseph