Chapter M (7)

Those who wish their horses to avail themselves of every advantage to be derived from SOILING, will certainly retain it in memory, that TWO months in the prime and _early_ part of the season, will be preferable to THREE at the _latter_ end: a dry summer, short pasture, and the infinity of flies, and other insects, constitute a very sensible drawback upon the privilege of liberty, as well as upon the restoration of FLESH, and the renovation of STRENGTH. Horses in a plethoric state, with a cough, full of blood, or the relics of disease about them, will most likely come up in a much worse state than when turned out. Horses of this description should undergo _bleeding_, and proper evacuations, previous to their being set at liberty; as the nocturnal collapsion of the porous system might probably repel the perspirative matter upon the overloaded vessels, and thereby render the remedy (in _turning out_) worse than the disease.

What is termed a _winter's run_, although attended with promised advantages in some respects, is not without the chance of loss, anxiety, vexation, and expence, in others: _frozen_ limbs, and an _empty_ carcase, are not calculated much for the promotion of flesh, strength, or purity of condition. A horse, by such, is in possession of his _shivering_ liberty, perhaps in some contracted spot, wretchedly despondent over the effluvia of his own excrements, 'tis true; but how far that may compensate for the want of shelter, food, care, and attention, in the most severe, dreadful and dreary season of the year, must be left entirely to the decision of those whose _pecuniary_ sensations may prompt them to make the experiment.

SOLE.—The external part of a horse's foot so called is at the bottom, and situate between the _frog_ in the center, and the _wall_ or _bearing_ which totally surrounds the outside. This will be the more perfectly understood by referring to Fig. 2. of the letter A in the Plate of "DEMONSTRATIVE SHOEING," where the SOLE, the WALL, and the FROG, being accurately represented, will collaterally explain themselves in the following description. The _outer_ sole (as it is called in contra-distinction to the _inner_, which is its membranous lining) is a sound and horny substance; but not so very firm and impenetrable in its texture, as the hoof, by which it is surrounded, and is evidently intended as a protection to the inferior structure of the foot. The sole, to assist generally in constituting what is considered a well-formed and substantial foot, should be thick, strong, and inclining much more to a hollow, than the least appearance of _prominence_; for when a shoe is well set, no bearing whatever should be sustained by the sole, but the whole must positively rest upon the _crust_ or _wall_ of the hoof, which may be seen in the line of articulation accurately represented upon the Plate; where, on the inside of the circle, will be observed the sole, Fig. 2. on the outer, the wall or crust, Fig. 1. When the bottom of the foot has what is termed a crowned sole, with a prominence similar to the convex side of an oyster shell, and the sole projecting above the circular wall of the hoof, the horse is tender, sometimes halts, and is tardy in progress: such horses are said to be _fleshy-footed_, and require great care and attention in shoeing; and unless the shoe is properly arched or hollowed within, to take off every chance of pressure from the prominent sole, pain and subsequent lameness must inevitably ensue.

SORREL—is the colour by which certain horses are distinguished, and might, without any degree of inconsistency, be termed a _red chesnut_: they are a colour nearly between a bright bay and a yellow chesnut, giving and taking a tinge or shade either way, having invariably manes and tails red or white. When tolerably well bred, of handsome shape, make, and symmetry, with full silver mane and tail, they are majestic, commanding figures, and are, in general, secured as cavalry chargers for field officers, when they are to be obtained of size and strength for the purpose.

SOUNDNESS,—in a horse, is of such extensive meaning, and infinite importance to the sporting world, to dealers in horses, and to individual purchasers, that it is exceedingly necessary some criterion should be fixed by which its present _undefined_ meaning should be more properly and more equitably understood; for want of which, more litigation is carried into the Courts at Westminster for the emolument and amusement of the Gentlemen of the Long-robe, than any other subject whatever, the constantly increasing evil of _crim. con._ excepted. The general custom between BUYER and SELLER is precisely this; the horse is sold with or without certain conditions in respect to SOUNDNESS, and this is done by what is called a WARRANTY on the part of the seller thus: "He is warranted perfectly _sound_, free from _vice_ or _blemish_, and quiet to _ride_, or _draw_," as either or both the latter may happen to be. A horse sold without a warranty, and _taken as he is_, is then purchased (and the purchase abided by) with all faults, and cannot be returned under any plea whatever, unless he can be proved to have been glandered at the time of purchase, in which state no horse can be _legally_ sold.

In the strict and equitable sense of the word, a horse, to be _perfectly sound_, should be _completely perfect_: he should have no obstruction to _sight_, no impediment to _action_, but be in an acknowledged slate of natural purity; neither _diseased_, _lame_, _blind_, or _broken-winded_: he should not only be free from impediment at the time of sale, but _bona fide_ never known to have been otherwise. Some there are who support a different opinion, and conceive (or pretend so to do) that a horse may be sold warranted perfectly sound, after he has recovered from a palpable lameness: those should recollect, that such horse is always liable to a relapse, or repetition of the injury; and whoever becomes so obstinate as to defend an action brought under such circumstance, will certainly feel the mortification of having a VERDICT pronounced _against_ him, so soon as sufficient evidence has proved such horse to have been _lame_ at any time whatever _previous_ to the purchase.

Some years since, a late Lord Chief Justice of the Court of King's Bench laid it down as a rule, and promulgated the opinion, from the bench during a trial then pending, that TWENTY POUNDS was a good and sufficient price for a SOUND HORSE; and whether a _warranty_ was or was not given, was totally immaterial: that sum implied a warranty, not only for the horse's soundness at the time of his being then sold, but that he should continue so for _at least_ three months afterwards; a declaration so truly ridiculous in itself, and so void of every principle of equity, that any man, to make it now, would lay indisputable claim to the appellation of FOOL or MADMAN.

SPANIEL—is the name of a dog of which there are different kinds; and even these have been so repeatedly crossed, that, unless it is in the possession of sportsmen who have been careful in preserving the purity of the breed perfectly free from _casual_ contamination, the well-bred genuine _cocking_ Spaniel is difficult to obtain. There are four distinct kinds of dog passing under this denomination; the large _water Spaniel_, and a smaller of the same sort. Of _land Spaniels_ there are two kinds also; the one larger than the other, much stronger in the bone, but with curly waves in the hair; and the small yellow pied springing Spaniel, (used in pheasant and cock shooting,) whose hair is rather long, soft, and delicately pliable, with ears of the same description, reaching, when extended, beyond the point of the nose. The two kinds first mentioned are chiefly confined to the purposes of wild fowl shooting, in moors, marshes, and the neighbourhood of rivers; where ducks, wigeons, teal, coots, moor-hens, dab-chicks, and snipes, are to be found; to all which they are particularly appropriate; not more for their indefatigable industry in _finding_ the game, than for their surmounting every obstacle to recover it, and bring it to hand when _killed_. They are also of most wonderful sagacity, fidelity, and observation; their olfactory sensations almost exceed belief, by which alone they are taught the most incredible performances. Sticks, gloves, handkerchiefs, coin, or any other article left some miles behind by the owner upon the road, or any remote spot, (totally unknown to them,) they will retrace to any distance upon a signal being given with the hand, and never relinquish the search till they bring it safe to their master.

The large _springing_ Spaniel, and small _Cocker_, although they vary in size, differ but little in their qualifications, except that the former is rather slower in action; neither catching the scent of the game so suddenly as the latter, or seeming to enjoy it with the same extatic enthusiasm when found. The small cocking Spaniel has also the advantage of getting through the low bushy covert with much less difficulty than the larger Spaniel, and does not tire so soon, whatever may have been the _length_ and _labour_ of the day. Spaniels of each description are frequently used as finders in COURSING with GREYHOUNDS, and are indefatigable in their exertions: from the time they are thrown off in pursuit of game, the tail is in a perpetual motion, (called feathering,) by the increasing vibration of which, an experienced sportsman well knows when he gets nearer the object of attraction. The nearer he approaches it, the more violent he becomes in his endeavours to succeed; tremulative whimpers escape him as a matter of _doubt_; but the moment that doubt's dispelled, his clamorous raptures break forth in full confirmation of the gratification he receives. And this proclamation may be so firmly relied on, (though in the midst of the thickest covert,) that the happy owner may exultingly boast he is in the possession of one faithful domestic who never tells a lie.

As it is the impulsive principle of this animal to give the most outrageous proof of joy upon finding, or coming upon the foot or haunt of game, so it is his determined disposition never to relax in his perseverance till he brings it _to view_. It is therefore necessary for all young and inexperienced sportsmen, who take the field with Spaniels, not to be too tardy in their own motions, but to let their agility keep pace with the incessant activity of their canine companions, without which they may expect to cover many a weary mile without a successful shot. Spaniels, when broke for the field, should never be taken out more than one young dog at a time, and that in company with one or more old and seasoned dogs, to whom they will mostly attend in every action, and the sooner acquire the necessary knowledge of the business they are engaged in. If young dogs are taken out alone, and in too great number, their great eagerness, and emulative opposition, frequently occasions them (particularly in covert, where they are safe from correction) to hunt or chase _one_ thing for want of finding _another_; and in the event of not being corrected when necessary, to become uncertain _babblers_, and never to be relied upon. The judicious and experienced sportsman will never be seen to hunt SPANIELS with POINTERS either in or out of covert; for, although it can do little or no injury to the former, it may very materially warp the _integrity_, if not totally destroy the principles of the latter.

SPARRING—is a ceremony practised with game cocks during the time they are in feeding (alias training) to fight in any MAIN or MATCH, for which they stand engaged. When COCKS are brought up from their _walks_, and placed in their pens, some are, of course, too full in flesh; others, as much deficient: in the judgment of equalizing these different degrees, (by reducing the weight of one, and increasing the substance of the other,) does the art of cock-feeding entirely depend. On every second or third day, during the time they are preparing for the match, each cock has a _sparring_ with an opponent of nearly equal weight with himself; and this _sham fight_ continues a longer or shorter time, according to the flesh, weight, and wind, of each cock so exercised, in proportion to the superflux of substance he is required to lose. For the occasion, and that they may not injure each other, they are equally shielded with mufflers upon the parts where their spurs have been sawed off; and that they may be the better inured to labour, and prepared for difficulty, the ceremony takes place upon a truss or two of straw loosely scattered, that, having no firm hold for their feet, they have less power to oppose each other. Cocks too full of flesh, and foggy, that require a great deal of _sweating_ to bring them down to their proper match weight, are sometimes permitted to continue the controversy till nearly exhausted.

SPAVIN-BLOOD—is a preternatural distension of the vein which runs down the inside of a horse's hock, forming a soft and elastic (or puffy) enlargement, commonly occasioning _weakness_, if not _lameness_, of the joint. They are in general produced by sudden _twists_ or _strains_, in short turns with loads, either in riding or drawing; and not unfrequently by too rapid turning in narrow stalls. The cure is frequently attempted by strong spirituous saturnine repellents, or powerful restringents, with a compress and bandage firmly fixed upon the part: these methods, however, seldom afford more than temporary relief. The former mode of operating, by incision, and instrumental extirpation, is in present practice entirely laid aside; a repetition BLISTER, or slightly FIRING, being the only means relied on to ensure certain obliteration.

SPAVIN-BONE.—The defect so called, is an enlargement on the outside of the hock, originating in a gristly or cartilaginous protrusion, which increases gradually to a callosity, and ultimately to a perfect ossification as hard as the bone itself. In its early state, but little limping or impediment to action is observed; but as it advances in progress, the lameness becomes proportionally perceptible. A bone-spavin is never known to submit to liquid applications, or solvents of any description; repeated BLISTERINGS, and substantial FIRING, seem the only means by which the enlargement and its painful irritability can be reduced.

SPAYED BITCH,—is a bitch upon whom an operation has been performed, by which she is deprived the power of generating a farther progeny. An incision being made in the flank, midway between the hip-bone and the belly, the ovaries are extracted through the orifice, and separated from the parts to which they were united: these being returned, the wound is stitched up, and heals in a few days, (if performed by a judicious practitioner,) without farther trouble or inconvenience.

SPEED—is sportingly applicable to HORSE, HOUND, or GREYHOUND; and upon this depends (in a great degree) the estimation in which they are held. It is customary to say, such a horse has great _action_, or he is in possession of the _gift_ of _going_. This is, however, considered applicable only to excellent TROTTERS and _hacknies_ upon the road. SPEED is always used in a superior sense, and intended to convey an idea of the greatest rapidity of which the animal is capable, and which enhances his value in proportion to his qualifications. In the art of TRAINING for the TURF, there are ambiguities of such magnitude, that it is averred by those who have made the practical part their study, that one training-groom (from judgment, experience, and observation) shall bring a horse to the post full half a distance better than another, although their _speed_ was considered equal when placed under the racing management of their different superintendants. This is admitted so much, and so truly, an incontrovertible fact, that TRAINING-GROOMS have their lights and shades of reputation and celebrity, in an equal degree with the most eminent artists in the universe. JOCKIES also are admitted to possess their different degrees of excellence, and to so very great and discriminating a _nicety_, that when MATCHES are lost by some lengths, and for large sums, offers are frequently made to run the match over again for the same money, or to _double_ the STAKES, provided the WINNING JOCKEY is permitted to ride the _losing_ horse. Thus speed is not always the same, but is evidently dependent upon contingencies, which the utmost human circumspection cannot always either foresee or prevent. The increase of speed with RACE HORSES in this country, is very readily admitted to have been great during the last fifty years; and this is impartially attributed to the introduction of, and judicious crosses from, the ARABIAN BLOOD with the best bred mares of our own: although the effect of these experiments were held in great doubt for some years, but are now universally acknowledged to have exceeded the utmost expectation, and cannot be supposed to extend much farther.

There are two modes of trial for SPEED, according to the present reformed mode of English racing: the one is to run _a mile_, which is termed running for SPEED; the other, of _going off_ at SCORE, and absolutely racing the whole _four miles_, which is called running for _speed_ and _bottom_. _Flying Childers_, whose speed was almost proverbial, went one third of a mile in twenty seconds. _Firetail_ and _Pumpkin_ ran a mile in a few seconds more than a minute and a half. _Childers_ ran the distance of four miles in six minutes and forty-eight seconds, carrying nine stone, two pounds; he made a leap of _thirty feet_ upon level ground; and he covered a space of twenty-five feet at every stroke when racing. It was formerly known that any horse who could run four miles in eight minutes, would prove a WINNER of PLATES: this is, however, very materially refined, by judicious crosses in blood, or improvements in training; as _Bay Malton_ ran four miles over York in seven minutes, forty-three seconds and a half. _Eclipse_ ran the same distance over York in eight minutes with _twelve stone_, though going only at his rate, without any inducement to speed.

The means by which the wonderful velocity of the greyhound can be ascertained are but few: there are, however, well authenticated instances upon record; and as they are again quoted in MR. DANIELS "Rural Sports," are entitled to credibility. In February, 1800, a hare was darted before a brace of greyhounds in Lincolnshire, and upon the distance being measured from her form to where she was killed, it proved upwards of four miles in a direct line; but there having been several turns, as well as some oblique running, during the course, it must have increased the length considerably: this ground was run over in the space of _twelve_ minutes; and the hare fell dead before the greyhounds touched her; which serves to demonstrate the speed and strength of the former. It is known that horses are more distrest (if they keep up) in a moderate COURSE than in a long CHASE; of which an instance lately occurred in the neighbourhood of Bottisham, in Cambridgeshire, from whence the hare being started, took away for the Six Mile Bottom; and although two-and-twenty horses went off with the greyhounds, only one could make a _gallop_ at the conclusion of the course. The hare (who had reached within fifty yards of the covert) dropped dead before the greyhounds; and they were so exhausted, that it was found necessary to bleed them to promote their recovery.

A few years since a hare was suddenly started at Finchingfield, in Essex, when the brace of greyhounds running at her came into contact with so much velocity, that both were killed on the spot. At Offham, in Sussex, a brace of greyhounds coursed a hare over the edge of a chalk-pit, and following themselves, were all found dead at the bottom. The high spirit, persevering speed, and invincible ardour, of the greyhound, not being universally known, (at least to those who have either few or no opportunities to partake of the sport,) it may not be inapplicable to introduce a singular circumstance which occurred in 1792. As LORD EGREMONT'S game-keeper was leading a brace of greyhounds coupled together, a hare accidentally crossing the road, the dogs instantly broke from their conductor, and gave chase, fastened as they were to each other: the pursuit afforded an uncommon and no less entertaining sight to several spectators. When the hare was turned, she had a manifest advantage, and embarrassed the dogs exceedingly in changing their direction; notwithstanding which, she was at length killed at Pikeless Gate, after a course of between _three_ and _four_ miles. In 1796 a similar occurrence took place in Scotland, where a brace of greyhounds, in couples, killed a hare after a course of a mile with intervening obstructions.

Endeavours having been made to acquire some degree of information upon the subject of comparative speed between a _greyhound_ and a RACE-HORSE of superior powers and celebrity, it was at length brought to a decision by absolute matter of chance. It having been previously submitted to the opinion of an experienced sportsman, which would prove to possess the greater portion of speed for _a mile_, or for a longer or shorter distance, he returned for answer, that, upon a flat, he had no doubt but a first rate horse would prove _superior_ to the greyhound; unless in a _hilly_ country, where he conceived a good greyhound would have the advantage. The information not to be acquired by any direct mode, was brought to trial by an incident which occurred upon the Course of Doncaster in 1800, and was precisely thus.

A match was to have been run between a horse and a mare for one hundred guineas. At the time appointed, the former not appearing, the mare started _alone_, to insure the STAKES; when, after having ran little more than a mile, a greyhound bitch (to the great admiration and entertainment of the company) took to her from the side of the Course, and continued racing with her the other three miles, keeping her regular line nearly _head_ and _head_, which produced a most excellent match; for when they reached the DISTANCE POST, five to four was betted upon the greyhound; when they came abreast of the stand, it was even betting; and the mare won by only _a head_.

The speed of the fleetest and highest bred FOX HOUNDS, was brought to public proof in the well-known match made between MR. MEYNELL and MR. BARRY, for 500 guineas a side, and decided over Newmarket in the month of September of the year in which it was run. The hounds of Mr. Barry's (called _Bluecap_ and _Wanton_) were put in training on the first of August with the famous WILL. CRANE. Their food consisted only of _oatmeal_, _milk_, and _sheep's trotters_. The ground was fixed on at the time of making the match; and upon the thirtieth of September the drag was taken from the Rubbing-house at Newmarket Town end, to the Rubbing-house at the starting-post of the Beacon Course: the four hounds were then laid on the scent: at the conclusion, Mr. Barry's _Bluecap_ came in first; _Wanton_ (very close to _Bluecap_) second. Mr. Meynell's _Richmond_ was beat more than a _hundred yards_; and the bitch never ran in at all. The length of the drag was between eight and ten miles; the time it was crossed in was some _seconds_ over _eight minutes_. Some tolerable idea, in this instance, may be formed of the SPEED, when there were SIXTY horses started fairly with the hounds, and only twelve were up. COOPER, Mr. Barry's huntsman, was the first; but the mare that carried him was rode blind in the exertion. WILL. CRANE, who rode _Rib_, (a King's Plate horse,) was the last of the twelve who came up. The current odds at starting were _seven_ to _four_ in favour of Mr. Meynell, whose hounds were reported to have been fed upon legs of mutton during the time they were in training.

MERKIN, a famous bitch, bred by COLONEL THORNTON, was considered far superior in speed to any fox-hound of her time: she was challenged to run any hound of her year five miles over Newmarket, giving 220 yards, for 10,000 guineas; or to give _Madcap_ 100 yards, and run the same distance for 5000. She ran a trial of four miles, and crossed the ground in _seven minutes_ and half a second. _Merkin_ was sold, in 1795, for four hogsheads of claret, and the seller to have two couple of her whelps.

_Madcap_, at two years old, challenged all England for 500 guineas. _Lounger_, brother to _Madcap_, did the same at four years old: the challenge was accepted, and a bet made to run Mr. Meynell's _Pillager_ for 200 guineas. The parties were also allowed by Colonel Thornton to start any other hound of Mr. Meynell's, and _Lounger_ was to beat both; but, upon his being seen at Tattersal's by many of the best judges, his bone, shape, and make, were thought so superior to any opponent that could be brought against him, Colonel Thornton consented to accept a pair of _gold_ dog-couples as a forfeit to the bet.

SPLENT—is the term given to an ossified prominence when it appears upon the shank-bone of a horse's fore-leg: they are frequently seen upon the legs of young horses, and are sometimes known to disappear without any application whatever. If they do not make their appearance during the fourth or fifth year, they are seldom seen after that time, unless occasioned by blow, bruise, or accident. They are very rarely productive of lameness or inconvenience, unless they curve towards the back sinews, and vibrate in action. Various are the means too hastily and too rashly brought into use for their extirpation, and many times without the least necessity; for when they are not attended with pain or inconvenience, it must be more prudent to let them remain in a state of dormant inactivity, than rouse them into painful action. If some mode must be inevitably adopted, a spirituous saturnine solvent is the most safe and efficacious application.

SPORTSMAN—is the appellation, for time immemorial, annexed to any man whose partiality to the SPORTS of the FIELD are universally known: they are evidently marked out for him by the dispensing and benign hand of Providence, for the promotion of health, and the gratification of pleasure, of which, enjoyed with moderation and rationality, he is never ashamed. The name of SPORTSMAN has ever been considered concisely characteristic of strict honour, true courage, unbounded hospitality, and the most unsullied integrity. However the character may have been broken in upon by time, or mutilated by the innovations of fashion, caprice, or folly, the original stock was derived solely from the _blood_ of the true OLD ENGLISH COUNTRY ESQUIRE; who, uncontaminated by the curse of insatiate ambition, is only happy himself in the happiness of his domestic dependents, the corresponding smiles of his tenants who surround his mansion, and an hospitable association with his numerous friends.

His HOUNDS are kept from an instinctive attachment to the sport itself, as well as to perpetuate the respectable and exhilarating establishment of his ancestors, (hitherto transmitted to their posterity without a stain,) and not from the least desire of having his name blazoned through every part of the county in which he resides, for keeping what he has neither PROPERTY to SUPPORT, or spirit to enjoy. Personally frugal, (amidst the most spirited hospitality,) he never suffers his mind to be disquieted by the pecuniary applications of people in trade: having a soul superior to the idea of living beyond his income, and running in debt, it is an invariable maxim, never to let his tradesmen be a single quarter in arrear. The guardian of his own honour, he never affords a chance of its becoming degraded by the officious and unprincipled pride of a subordinate, under the appellation of STEWARD; or to be disgraced, or prostituted, by the barefaced, unqualified _denial_ of a menial bedaubed with lace and variegated finery, under the denomination of a _footman_.

Innately philanthropic, the true, well-bred, liberal-minded SPORTSMAN is always equally easy of access to friends, neighbours, tenants, and even to necessitous parochial solicitants; and never countenances false consequence amongst his domestics in one department, or impertinent pride in another: by a persevering adherence to which system, his rustic mansion seems the summit of all worldly happiness and earthly gratification: not a dependent but eyes him with the warmest sensations of gratitude; not a servant within, or a labourer without, but looks awefully up to him as their best friend. The pleasures of the field he extensively and judiciously engages in with all the fervency of a well-informed and experienced sportsman; but by no means with all the unqualified enthusiasm, and fashionable furor, of an indiscreet and determined devotee. Capable of distinguishing between the _use_ and _abuse_ of what is so evidently and benignantly placed before him, as an excitement to exhilarating action, bodily invigoration, and general health; he enters into all its _spirit_, avails himself of all its _import_; not more as a personal gratification (in respect to sport) than a mental perusal of one of Nature's many instructive volumes, displaying to the ruminative and expansive comprehension, the applicable and coinciding speed of the HORSE; the instinctive impulse, invincible ardour, and corresponding perseverance of the HOUND; the various shifts and evasions of the GAME; and lastly, the firm and manly fortitude of those who join and surround him in the CHASE. These are the distinguishing traits by which the true and generous sportsman may be known: and it must be freely admitted, that so congenial are the feelings, so sympathetic the liberality, and so uniform the hospitality of SPORTSMEN in the scale of universality, that no friendships are better founded, none more disinterested, few more permanent, and none more sincere.

SPRAIN OR STRAIN,—is a preternatural extension, and forcible elongation, of the tendons, beyond the power of immediately recovering their previous elasticity; or a sudden twist of some particular joint, by which the ligamentary junction sustains an injury, and produces lameness. Whenever they happen in the hip, stifle, round-bone, or shoulder, they then become serious considerations; the injured parts being seated too deep for the effect of external applications. In such cases it is seldom of use to lose time, and encounter disappointment, by persevering stimulants; time and rest constitute the best foundation for permanent relief. Horses having encountered such accidents, should be turned out in a still and quiet pasture, where they may be free from alarm and disturbance; and this should be adopted before any stiffness is brought upon the joint, by too long standing in one position; which they mostly do, when confined in a stable as invalids. When at unrestrained liberty, it is natural to conclude, he adapts the gentleness of his motion to the state of his case, and exerts himself no more than a proper respect to his own safety may render secure. It is a self-evident fact, that a restoration of elasticity or strength of the part, is more likely to be obtained by rest, and the efforts of nature, than any superficial or topical applications that can be made.

STRAINS (or LAMENESS) in the shoulder require nice investigation to discriminate between such as arise from accident, rheumatic affection, or chest-foundering. It is remarked, that when a horse has sustained a severe injury in the shoulder, by wrench, slip, twist, short turn, or any other accident, the pain prevents him from bringing the leg on that side forward, in a parallel line, or in an equal degree with the other; which being sound, is much more firmly set to the ground, with an evident intent to save from pain the side that is lame. When a horse in this situation stands still, the leg of the lame shoulder is almost invariably placed before the other; and if he is trotted in hand, he generally brings forward the leg of the shoulder affected with a kind of circular sweep, and not in a direct line: if any attempt is made to turn him _short_ on the _lame_ side, he instantly dreads it, and becomes almost repugnant to the exertion: when compelled to make it, he will almost sink on the lame side, to support himself entirely on the sound one.

BLEEDING should in such accidents immediately precede every other consideration; it unloads the vessels, prevents local stagnation, and sometimes a general stiffness of the quarter in which the injury has been sustained. Where either the season of the year prevents, or an opportunity to turn out cannot be obtained, the only alternative, hot fomentations, and stimulative embrocations, must be adopted. In strains of the hip, the horse in general draws his leg after him with a painful reluctance; and if impelled to a _trot_, is observed to drop upon his heel. If the injury is in the stifle, by treading on the toe, his motion is a kind of _hop_ with the side affected. Strains of the hock are easily discovered, by a sort of limping twist in that joint at every motion of the leg. Lamenesses of the _hip_, _stifle_, and _hock_, are more likely to be assisted by external applications, judiciously prescribed, than those which are more deeply seated.

The ligamentary junction of the pastern joints are sometimes greatly weakened by incessant work and little rest; in unerring proof of which, they frequently make sudden _drops_, as if falling to the ground. The knees of many are affected in the same way, and overhang the shank-bone and fetlock-joint; the moment a tendency to which is perceived, any horse should be turned out to enjoy the rest he is so individually entitled to, for want of which salutary and humane attention, very many good and useful horses have been completely ruined and destroyed. There is no part of a horse more liable to strains, than the back sinews of the forelegs; they are materially concerned in every description of labour, and are always in proportional danger. Whenever these happen, there is no difficulty in making the discovery; there is an evident enlargement, with inflammatory tension; and if one leg only is affected, it is generally placed before the other, and rather upon the toe. In slight cases of this kind, fomentations of hot vinegar, and strengthening embrocations, assisted by rest, may produce a restoration; but, in general practice, without blistering, firing, or both, a permanent cure is seldom obtained.

SPUR—is the well-known weapon with which the heel of the horseman is armed to enforce his authority; and which the well-broke horse will always instantly obey.

STABLE.—Stables are the receptacles for horses in general, and are of very different descriptions; not only in respect to the various sorts of horses for which they are intended, but the improved mode of construction, and the numerous conveniencies they are now made to contain. As horses were never in such high estimation, or of such intrinsic worth, as at the present moment, so never was so much money expended upon their preservation. There can be no doubt, but the health and condition of valuable horses, may depend much upon the situation and structure of the stable; and although every person will appropriate the size of the stable, and the number of stalls, to their own wants, yet there are certain judicious rules, and desirable conveniencies, which should admit of no deviation. Whether a stable consists of two stalls, four, or six, it may be rendered equally uniform, and confidently replete with every thing that can possibly be required.

It is an established opinion, that a building of BRICK (lined or not lined with deal) is preferable to STONE for the purpose; the former being _dry_, and always in the same state: the _latter_ is influenced, or acted upon, by the changes of weather; and in a hazy atmosphere, generally _damp_; and in constant (or continued) rains, the walls are frequently streaming with _water_. This, however, depends much upon the aspect to which they are erected; a circumstance not always sufficiently attended to, till it is found too late to repent. Stables are paved with _bricks_, _clinkers_, _flints_, _pebbles_, or _stone_, as may best correspond with the conveniences of the country in which they are erected, and where, perhaps, some of those articles are difficult to obtain. Stalls should never be less than _six_ feet wide; nor the stable less than _nine_ feet high: _eight_ feet in the clear should be allowed from the heels of the horse to the wall behind him; and iron hay-racks are preferable to wood, as the latter (wherever spirited horses stand) are always in want of repair. No stables can be called good, unless they have proper rooms annexed for the reception of SADDLES, BRIDLES, HORSE CLOTHS, and every article necessary to the proper support of such an establishment; each of those become more perishable amidst the nocturnal steam of the horses than by daily use.

Experience has demonstrated the advantages of general cleanliness, temperate air, (according to the season,) and regular exercise: to the want of these, in part, or all, may be attributed the ills at INNS and LIVERY STABLES, as well as the fashionable increase of Veterinarians. Upon entering the stables of these public receptacles, (particularly if the door has been a few minutes closed,) the olfactory sensations are instantly assailed by such a profusion of volatile effluvia, as to extract moisture from the eyes, in opposition to every endeavour made to restrain it. Here stand rows of poor patient animals, absolutely fumigated with the perspirative transpiration of their own bodies, broiling with _heat_, and panting with _thirst_, in a degree beyond the temperature of a common hot-house, in the severity of the winter season. Each horse is observed to stand upon a load of litter (clean at top, and rotten underneath) very little inferior to a common _cucumber-bed_ in heigth, with all the _advantages_ of equal _warmth_ from the dung _below_!

In this unexaggerated state stand hundreds within the environs of the Metropolis; their owners the complete dupes of _ignorance_, _indiscretion_, and _imposition_; the animals themselves in a constant state of languid perspiration, and bodily debility: deprived the comforts of pure air, and regular exercise, they become dull, sluggish, and stupid, as if conscious of, and depressed with, their almost perpetual imprisonment. All this erroneous mode of treatment instantly affects the eye of experimental observation. The carcase seems an incongruous accumulation, evidently full, and unnaturally overloaded, for want of gentle motion, and general friction; the legs become swelled, stiff, and tumefied; and, sooner or later, terminates in _cracks_, _scratches_, _grease_, or some more vexatious disorder. The _hoofs_, by being constantly fixed in a certain degree of heat, begin to contrast, and get narrow at the heels, holding forth the _pleasing_ promise of hoof-bound lameness. The eyes, from a constant watry discharge, give proof of habitual weakness; the lassitude of the body, the heat of the mouth, the general gloom, and every corresponding circumstance, seems to display a frame the reverse of those whose health is preserved, and condition promoted, by a system of discipline opposite in practice, and different in effect. See GROOM.

STAG, OR RED DEER.—The STAG and HIND are the _male_ and _female_ of this tribe, as the BUCK and DOE are of the _fallow_ deer. The latter are mostly the natives of parks, and bred for domestic purposes, producing venison for the table; the former are the majestic inhabitants of those extensive and sequestered tracts called FORESTS and CHACES, where they are preserved as more peculiarly appropriated to the pleasures of the chase, in which even his MAJESTY, with his hunting retinue, condescends to engage. The STAG, individually surveyed, is one of the grandest and most stately figures in the animal creation; his very appearance instantly exciting attention and admiration. Naturally disposed to solitude, he never obtrudes upon the haunt of man, but revels in the remote and obscure shades of abstrusity. When caught sight of amidst the umbrageous stillness of his abode, the grandeur, lofty look, and commanding aspect, of his first survey, cannot be encountered without the most aweful and impressive sensations. With ample power to oppose, he has pliability to submit, and, after a few moments interview, deliberately retires to his protecting covert, seemingly more _surprized_ than _alarmed_ at the sight of the HUMAN SPECIES.

In the dignity of his deportment he stands unrivalled, and may, with allegorical propriety, be considered the hereditary MONARCH of the WOODS, as every other animal is observed to give way upon his approach. In his peaceable and undisturbed retirement, he is perfectly tranquil and inoffensive, displaying no antipathy or opposition to those who come not in _hostility_ to him. His form is the most sublime and beautiful that can possibly be conceived; the elegance of his figure, the commanding effect of his stature, the flexibility of his frame, the elasticity of his limbs, the velocity of his motion, and the proportional immensity of his strength, in addition to the impression made upon the mind by the magnific grandeur of the antlers, branching from his brow, all seem uniformly calculated to render him an object of the most serious and pleasing attraction.

The RED DEER, formerly so plentiful to be found in different remote parts of ENGLAND, the Highlands of SCOTLAND, and the Lake of Killarney, in IRELAND, are greatly reduced, and but very rarely to be found in a wild and unpreserved state in either. This must of course be attributed to the more advantageous distribution and cultivation of land, and the improved state of every country. STAGS, or HINDS, were then found _singly_, and hunted or pursued by those who happened to find them; but now in the Forest of Windsor, and the New Forest in Hampshire, where they are bred and protected for the ROYAL CHASE, they assemble together; and upon Ascot Heath, near Swinley Lodge, (the official residence of the Master of his Majesty's Stag Hounds,) may be seen the largest herd in the King's dominions.

The colour of both STAG and HIND is a dingy red, with darker tints about the eyes and mouth: down the upper part of the neck, and over the points of the shoulders, is a shade of dark brown, bordering upon black: the countenance is commandingly expressive; the eye beautifully brilliant, even to poetic celebrity; and his senses of _smelling_ and _hearing_ equal to any animal of this country. When in the least alarmed, his position is the most majestic; he raises his head to the highest pitch, erects his ears, swells his neck, extends his nostrils, and snuffs the air, as if in curious and impatient investigation of the cause by which it was occasioned. Let this be what it may, he never takes to sudden flight, without first measuring, by his _eye_ and _ear_, the magnitude of the danger, and proceeds accordingly. If dogs are not of the party, men, cattle, or carriages, seem to give him little or no concern; for, after turning twice or thrice, to take a repeated survey with a kind of confused admiration, he moves off very deliberately, without any alarming sensation.

The season for copulation with the deer tribe (see "RUTTING TIME") begins at the latter end of August and beginning of September, and terminates in the beginning or middle of October; depending, in that respect, a little upon the state of the season, and the ages of the different head of deer; those of two and three years old being backwarder, of course extending the time beyond those who are older. From the moment of conception with the hind, to the time of parturition, is nearly nine lunar months; as they produce in the last week in MAY, or one of the two first in JUNE. Immediately after impregnation, she separates herself from the STAG; no intercourse takes place; even common association ceases; and nothing during the period of gestation ensues, but mutual and marked indifference. The hind is seldom or ever known to produce more than one, (which is called a CALF:) this she deposits in the most remote, sequestered, and best sheltered spot to be procured, for the purpose of secretion from its numerous enemies, amongst whom there is none more determined or malicious than the masculine occasion of its existence, even the sire himself. Mysterious as this may appear, it is an unexaggerated fact; and the dam, perfectly conscious of the stag's unnatural propensity, is more industrious to conceal the calf's retreat from him, than the aggregate of its other enemies.

The CALF, when once it is of strength sufficient to accompany its dam, never leaves her side during the first summer; and the ensuing winter, none but the HINDS, and males _under_ a year old, remain together; the annual separation between the STAGS and HINDS invariably taking place as before described. During the months of infancy, the courage of the dam, in defence of her offspring, is equal to any maternal affection of our own species; she opposes every force, encounters every enemy, exposes herself to every danger, and hazards her own life to insure the safety of her young. The hind has but little protection upon the score of self-preservation, nature having left her without horns, those useful and ornamental weapons with which the stag is so powerfully armed. The first year the male has no horns; the second they are straight, and _single_; the third, they shew _two_ branches; the fourth, _three_; the fifth, _four_; and the sixth, _five_; when the stag is reckoned complete, and at his full growth: notwithstanding this, the antlers continue to increase till there are _six_ or _seven_ on each side; and though the age of the deer is mostly ascertained by the number, yet it is not always certain, but is more nicely to be depended on from the thickness and size of the trunk or body by which they are sustained.

These horns, enormous as they appear, are shed _annually_, which happens in the latter end of FEBRUARY, or during the month of MARCH; of which there is a most perfect regeneration before the commencement of the RUTTING TIME, when they fight for the hind with the most determined and incredible ferocity. After the season of _rutting_, the stags having been found too weak to stand long before the hounds, the operation of castration was adopted; and the stag thus deprived of the means of propagation, (by the loss of the testes,) feeling no stimulative propensity to copulate, is never debilitated, but always ready for the field, and affords _runs_ of great duration. Thus operated upon, they are then called HEAVIERS; and it is a remarkable fact, that if a stag is castrated while his horns (alias antlers) are in a state of perfection, they will never exfoliate: on the contrary, if the operation is performed when the head is _bare_, the horns will _never_ return.

STAG,—the sporting term for a young GAME COCK during his second year. For the whole of the first year, he is called a _chicken_; from which time to the completion of the second, he is a STAG; and from thence forward, a COCK. In regular matches and mains for considerable sums of money, very few are brought to Pit before they are of that age; unless it is made, and so agreed on both sides, in which case it is called a stag main, or main of stags. See COCKING, GAME COCK, and COCK-PIT ROYAL.

STAG-EVIL—is a disorder of the most distressing kind, to which horses of the draught kind are more particularly subject: it partakes of the paralytic stroke and spasmodic affection, coming on suddenly, without the least previous indication of approaching disease. The muscles become so instantaneously contracted, that the head is raised to its utmost heigth, the jaws are fixed, the neck stiff and immoveable, the eyes are turned upwards, leaving only the whites to be seen; the palpitations of the heart are exceedingly violent, and the laborious heavings of the flank incessant. This disorder, difficult as it is in its cause to define, is always more or less dangerous, in proportion to the mildness or severity of the attack. If it proceeds from a profuse flux of _blood_ to the BRAIN, in consequence of too great and powerful exertions, plentiful bleeding, and nervous stimulants, will be the most expeditious and likely means to relieve.

When its symptoms are so exceedingly severe and alarming, that the jaws are locked, and no medicines can be administered by the MOUTH, recourse must be had to _collateral_ aids. Strong hot fomentations, with a decoction from the most fragrant aromatic garden herbs, under the _jaws_, behind the _ears_, and both sides the _throat_, followed by fumigations from _myrrh_, _ammoniacum_, and _assafœtida_, grossly powdered, and sprinkled upon a hot iron, or fire-shovel, held below the _nostrils_; glysters of gruel, in which _valerian root_ has been boiled, and _assafœtida_ dissolved, with an addition of _liquid laudanum_ and _olive oil_ to each, and repeatedly frequently; are the only means, properly persevered in, that can afford any hope or expectation of success. These exertions are in general too much trouble for the lower order of the Veterinary tribe, who fly to their _favourite_ and _contemptible_ introduction of a ROWEL, many hours before which can become productive in its effect, death closes the scene, and relieves the subject from its accumulated misery.

STAGGERS.—This is likewise a disorder of the head, to which horses of the same description are constantly liable, bearing in many respects no distant affinity to the former; for although it cannot be deemed the very same disease, yet, as it is known to derive its origin from the same cause, it is evidently entitled to rank in the same class. BRACKEN, who speaks of it with more scientific and professional precision than any writer before or since, assimilates it to the _apoplexy_ and _epilepsy_ of the human frame, and enters into an anatomical disquisition of many pages to justify his opinion. He most judiciously attributes it to its proper and only cause, a plethoric state of the body; and that by the preternatural distension of all the vessels, the blood is more forcibly propelled upon the brain, from whence inflammation (in a greater or less degree) consequently ensues; making the following remark, to which every experienced practitioner will yield his unqualified approbation.

"That where one creature dies of a distempered brain from the loss of _too much_ blood, there are _twenty_ lives _lost_ for want of taking away a _sufficient_ quantity." In direct conformity with the opinion of BRACKEN upon the subject of REPLETION, may be quoted a plain and true, but less scientific remark of CAPTAIN BURDON, in his _Pocket Farrier_; who, for want of more polished terms, and technical phraseology, thus expresses himself: "Don't let your horse stand too long without exercise; it fills his belly too full of meat, and his veins too full of blood; and from hence the staggers, and many other distempers, proceed."

Admitting the affinity between the DISEASES, as lethargy, or sleeping-evil, falling-evil, or convulsions, frenzy and madness, stag-evil, or staggers, all practitioners consider them _individually_ a species of APOPLEXY, originating in nearly the same cause, and to be relieved only by the same means. Under which conjunctive authority, plentiful bleedings, repeated stimulative glysters, and internally, assafœtida, camphor, valerian, castor, and such other ingredients as powerfully act upon the nervous system, constitute the whole that can with consistency be introduced in all cases of a similar description.

STAG-HUNTING—is one of the most rapturous and enchanting pursuits within the privilege or power of the human frame and mind to enjoy. As HUNTING, in its general sense, is known to comprise an imaginary view of different kinds under that concise term, so various remarks will be found upon _each_, under the heads of CHASE, FOX-HUNTING, HARRIERS, and HUNTING; rendering unnecessary the introduction of _new_, or repetition of _former_ matter, more than what may strictly appertain to the distinct sport now before us.