See more on this subject in the Chapter on Coachmen.
MANAGEMENT OF HORSES
IN
CASE OF FIRE.
When a Fire happens, such is the natural dread of the horse, that he cannot be prevailed on to move out of danger, but remains to his certain destruction.
In this alarming case, it has been recommended, and practised with success, (the opportunity of a few minutes offering,) to blind the horses with any cloths which can be suddenly laid hold on, and a Bridle or Halter also being put on, to back them out; for when these animals see or smell fire, they obstinately refuse to move forwards, but may be forced backward.
HINTS TO HORSEMEN.
If you do not wish your Horse to catch cold, Mount him the moment he comes out of the Stable.
“The Stirrups,” says Lord Pembroke, in his Essay on Horses, 12mo. 1761, pp. 18 and 19, “must be of just such length, that when the Rider, being well placed, puts his feet into them (about one-third of each foot from the point of it) the point may be about two or three inches higher than the heel when the Rider places himself upon the Saddle strait, even, upright and well with his Legs hanging down, and the stirrups likewise; and when he is in this position, take up the stirrup, till the bottom of it comes just under the Ankle bone. The Rider must not bear upon his Stirrups, but only let the natural weight of his legs rest upon them.”
Always ride a hole or two shorter across the Country, than you do on the Road.