In the lady’s endeavours to retain her foot in the stirrup, her weight must preponderate on the left side; if the stirrup be too short, it necessarily gives a rolling motion to her body, destructive alike to grace, elegance, and security of seat, and will prevent her seating herself sufficiently back in her saddle.
On the Reins (vide [p. 27]).
Holding the Reins in one hand (vide [p. 28]).
Using both hands (vide [p. 29]).
Riding on one rein (vide [p. 30]).
The Whip (vide [p. 30]).
THE BRIDLE HAND.
The motion of the lady’s hand must be confined to the wrist—as in pianoforte playing—the action coming from it alone.
By the management of the reins, in concert with the yielding or retraction of the wrists, the horse is guided in his paces. By this mode the sensibility and goodness of his mouth is preserved; the beauty of his action is developed; steadiness is combined with security in his paces, and the safety of his rider is secured. The degree of command, which the animal can be placed under, entirely depends on the degree of proficiency acquired in this branch.