Q. Is it enough that the horse champ his bit for the flexion of his jaw to leave nothing more to wish for?
A. No, it is also necessary that the horse let go of the bit—that is to say, that he should separate (at our will) his jaws as much as possible.
Q. Can all horses have this mobility of jaw?
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 mass.