Part 8 (2/2)

_A._ All without exception, if we follow the gradation pointed out, and if the rider does not allow himself to be deceived by the flexion of the neck. Useful as this is, it would be insufficient without the play of the jaw.

_Q._ In the direct flexion of the jaw, ought we to give a tension to the curb-reins and those of the snaffle at the same time?

_A._ No, we must make the snaffle precede (the hand being placed as indicated in Plate No. III.), until the head and neck are lowered; afterwards the pressure of the bit, in time with the snaffle, will promptly make the jaws open.

_Q._ Ought we often to repeat this exercise?

_A._ It should be continued until the jaws separate by a light pressure of the bit or snaffle.

_Q._ Why is the stiffness of the neck so powerful an obstacle to the education of the horse?

_A._ Because it absorbs to its profit the force which the rider seeks in vain to transmit throughout the whole ma.s.s.

_Q._ Can the haunches be suppled separately?

_A._ Certainly they can; and this exercise is comprised in what is called stationary exercise.

_Q._ What is its useful object?

_A._ To prevent the bad effects resulting from the instinctive forces of the horse, and to make him appreciate the forces transmitted by the rider without opposing them.

_Q._ Can the horse execute a movement without a s.h.i.+fting of weight?

_A._ It is impossible. We must first seek to make the horse take a position which causes such a variation in his equilibrium that the movement may be a natural consequence of it.

_Q._ What do you understand by position?

_A._ An arrangement of the head, neck and body, previously disposed according to the movements of the horse.

_Q._ In what consists the _ramener_?

_A._ In the perpendicular position of the head, and the lightness that accompanies it.

_Q._ What is the distribution of the forces and weight in the _ramener_?

_A._ The forces and weight are equally distributed through all the ma.s.s.

_Q._ How do we address the intelligence of the horse?

_A._ By the position, because it is that which makes the horse know the rider's intentions.

_Q._ Why is it necessary that in the backward movements of the horse, the legs of the rider precede the hand?

_A._ Because we must displace the points of support before placing upon them the ma.s.s that they must sustain.

_Q._ Is it the rider that determines his horse?

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