head is well kept up, he cannot do much mischief with
his heels.

[Illustration]

If, however, when the rider is unprepared, in spite of her exertions he
should get his head down, she must endeavour, by means of the reins, to
prevent the animal from throwing himself; and also, by a proper
inclination of her body backward, to save herself from being thrown
forward. Should an opportunity occur, she must endeavour to give him two
or three sharp turns: this may also be done, with advantage, if she
detect any incipient attempts in the animal to kick.

A horse inclined to rear seldom kicks much: but he may do both
alternately; and the rider should be prepared against his attempts, by
keeping her balance in readiness for either of the opponent defences.
She must also take care, that, while she is holding her horse's head up
and well in hand to keep him from kicking, she do not cause him to rear,
by too great a degree of pressure on his mouth.

[Illustration]

EXERCISES IN THE PACES.

Although our limits will not permit us to enter into an elaborate detail
of the lessons taken by a pupil in the riding school, it is right that
we should give the learner a few useful hints on the rudiments of
riding, and not devote our whole space to the improvement of those who
have made considerable progress. While we endeavour to correct bad
habits in the self-taught artist,--in the pupil of a kind friend, an
affectionate relative, or of a mere groom,--to confirm the regularly
educated equestrian in the true principles and practice of the art,--to
remind her of what she has forgotten, and to improve upon the knowledge
she may have acquired,--we must not forget those among our young
friends, who, having never mounted a horse, are desirous of learning how
to ride with grace and propriety, and who dwell at a distance, or do not
feel inclined to take lessons, from a master. To such, one-third, at
least, of our preceding observations are applicable; and we recommend an
attentive perusal of what we have said, as to Mounting, the Aids, &c.,
before they aspire to the saddle. Our other remarks they will find
useful when they have acquired a little practice.

A quiet and well-trained horse, and a careful attendant, should, if
possible, be procured. A horse, that knows his duty, will almost
instruct his rider; and if a friend, who is accustomed to horses, or a
careful servant, accompany the pupil, there is little or nothing to
fear, eve