CHAPTER III.

THE SADDLE AND BRIDLE.

Saddle of ancient times, and the manner of riding.--Planchette.--Catherine de Medici deviser of the two-pommeled saddle.--M. Pellier, Sr., inventor of the third pommel.--English saddle.--Advantages of the third pommel.--Saddle should, invariably, be made and fitted to the horse.--Seat of saddle.--Kinds of saddles for different ladies.--Proper application of the third pommel.--Saddle recommended and used by the author.--Points to be attended to in procuring a saddle.--Girths.--New mode of tightening girths.--Stirrups and stirrup-leathers.--Safety stirrups.--How to attach the stirrup-leather.--The bridle and reins.--Martingales.--Snaffle-bits.--Curb-bits.--Curb-chain.--Tricks of horses with bits, and their remedy.--Adjustment of the bit and head-stall.--Care of the bit.--How to correctly place the saddle on the horse.--Remarks concerning girthing the horse.--Great advantages derived from knowing how to saddle and bridle one's horse. 67