A rough, or, what is technically termed, a "staring" coat, considerably
deteriorates the appearance of a horse, however perfect in other
conditions. Its surface, on a well-bred, healthy, and properly groomed
animal, is not only smooth, but brilliantly polished. The mane, if too
long and thick, will interfere with that delicate management of the
reins so desirable to a lady on horseback; and the tail, if of
immoderate length, will, by the animal's whisking it towards his sides,
prove inconvenient, to the fair rider, at all times; but, especially so,
in dirty weather. Neither of these appendages, however, on the other
hand, should be ungracefully brief or scanty.

Of all colours presented by the horse, none is so rich, and, at the same
time, so elegant and chaste, as a bright bay; provided the mane, tail,
and lower parts of the legs, be black. A small white star on the
forehead, and a white speck on one of the heels, are to be considered,
rather, as beauties, than defects: but much white, either on the face or
legs, whatever be the general hue, is quite the reverse of desirable.
After bright bay, chestnut, perhaps, deserves to rank next in the scale
of taste; provided it be not, as is very frequently the case,
accompanied with white legs. Some of the various shades of grey,
however, are, in the opinion of many, entitled to be placed above it:
of these, the silver grey, with black mane and tail, claims the highest
place. Brown is rather exceptionable, on account of its dulness. Black
is not much admired; though, as we think, when of a deep jet, remarkably
elegant. Roan, sorrel, dun, piebald, mouse, and even cream colour
(however appropriate the latter may be for a state-carriage-horse) are
all to be eschewed.

The height of her horse should be in harmonious proportion with that of
the rider. A very young or short lady is in no less false a position, as
regards grace, on a lofty steed, than a tall, full-grown woman, on a
diminutive pony. For ladies of the general stature, a horse measuring
from fifteen to fifteen and a half hands, at the point of the shoulder,
is usually considered, as regards height, more desirable than any other.

In paces, the lady's horse should be perfect; or, at all events, so far
as regards the walk and canter. The former should be fast, bold, firm,
and lively, without being unsteady; and, the latter, light, easy,
well-combined, and graceful: so, too, should the hand-gallop; although,
it is tru