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Page:Equitation.djvu/86

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As soon as the horse has become calm and obedient while the hands of the assistant feel a gentle contact with the mouth through the rein, the cavesson likewise is removed; and the trainer, now mounting for himself, begins progressive work

LESSON, MOUNTED, WITH THE LONGE

upon the several gaits, first on a straight line, afterwards at the figures of manege, but always, without exception, by means of the lateral effects.

It is best, when possible, to keep the horse for a year at the breaking in and the lateral effects, before going on to the reasoned equitation. By that time horse and trainer better know one another, the horse is stronger, steadier, and better able to profit by the suppling of the flexions. Moreover, the young or inexperienced trainer is very likely to