INTRODUCTION

This book does not pretend to be an exhaustive treatise on the subject of horsewomanship. It is offered merely as a collection of the most important points gleaned in my career as a horse-lover and professional horsewoman. While from experience alone a rider may evolve good form if she is a natural born horsewoman, yet this is so rare that, with most of us, a knowledge at the start of the general fundamental principles which are the basis of form in riding and driving, is essential. It was my good fortune to have my mother, Mrs. Emily S. Beach, lay the foundation for me and, similarly, these chapters may aid some of my readers.

Nothing in this book is hearsay. That which takes but a moment to tell has taken me years to learn; learned as a pupil; learned as a teacher; learned by observation; learned by exhibition, by many a triumph, by many a heart-break; much of it a pleasure, much a hard task, but repaid always by my comrades through it all—the horses.

I desire to express my thanks to Messrs. Brewster & Co., Mr. Herman Haas, Messrs. Martin & Martin, Messrs. Whippey, Steggall & Co., The Durland Co., and Mr. P. Nardī for the many illustrations and suggestions which they have kindly given me. Many of the illustrations are from photographs which my friends have been kind enough to send me.

CONTENTS

PART I—RIDING
CHAPTERPAGE
I.[Form in Riding]3
II.[Hands]14
III.[Mounting—Side-Saddle]31
IV.[Riding Astride]37
V.[Hunting]58
VI.[Show Ring]77
VII.[Hints on Riding]91
VIII.[Correct Dress for the Saddle]108
IX.[Saddles and Bridles]133
X.[The Saddle Horse]157
XI.[The Selection of a Saddle Horse]180
PART II—DRIVING
XII.[Form]193
XIII.[Four-in-Hand and Tandem Driving]217
XIV.[Show Ring Appointments]245
XV.[Hints on Driving]250
XVI.[Dress]259
XVII.[Bits and Bearing Reins]264
XVIII.[Harness]273
XIX.[Gymkhana Games and Suggestions for Private Horse Shows]282
[Index]291

ILLUSTRATIONS