Chapter M (5)

SANDCRACK—is a crack or cleft in the HOOF of a HORSE, which originates in a preternatural brittleness, brought on by standing too constantly upon hot dry litter, without stopping to the bottom, or a proper and occasional oiling of the hoof, to keep it in a healthy state. It generally runs in a straight line downwards; and when it extends from the junction of hair and hoof to the bottom, with the bloody lymph oozing from the membranous mass at the top, it then becomes a serious concern, affording no expectation of speedy consolation. There is, in fact, but one direct mode of cure, which is to reduce the projecting and ragged edges to a level, with the finest side of the rasp. Then with the fine edge of a small firing-iron, of moderate heat, run two lines parallel to each other on each side the crack longitudinally; this done, draw two in the same manner transversely _above_, and the same below the centrical part of the cleft, by which it will be enclosed in a small square of double lines, calculated to restore the union which has been destroyed. A little compound tincture of myrrh, or friar's balsam, should be poured into the crack so soon as it is observed, particularly if blood should be perceived to transude from the opening. In slight cases, horses may be continued in moderate use; but where they bear the complexion previously described, turning out to grass in a pasture _moist_, but not _wet_, and that for a length of time, is the only foundation upon which the expectation of permanent cure can be entertained.

SCAB.—The disorder in horses so called, is the species of mange become inveterately _dry_ and _scabby_ by its long duration.

SCENT—is the leading principle from which the great and inexpressible enjoyment of all FIELD SPORTS is derived. It is the sublime and inexplicable mystery upon which so many have contemplated, without being enabled to define. That every information may be collected upon a subject so rich, and so desirable of attainment to the SPORTING WORLD, a rotational but concise review shall be introduced from those who have given their thoughts in print to the public.

We are told by one, that "SCENT is an _effluvium_ continually arising from the _corpuscles_ that issue out of all bodies; and being impregnated with the peculiar state and quality of the blood and juices of that particular animal from which they flow, occasions the vast variety of smells or scents cognizable by the olfactory nerves, or organs of smelling." This writer proceeds in confirmation thus: "Hence the reason why one person differs from another in scent, and why a dog will trace the footsteps of his master for a hundred miles together, following him into any house, church, or other building, though surrounded by ten thousand: and when the faithful animal has thus diligently sought out and recognized his master, he is seldom willing even to trust the evidence of his own eyes, until, with erected crest, he has taken a few cordial sniffs, to convince himself he is right. Hence also we perceive how a pack of hounds are enabled to pursue HARE, FOX, STAG, or any other animal they are trained to hunt, across the scent, and amidst the society of others of the same species, without being diverted from the pursuit of that self same animal they had first on foot; and hence too we discover how it is possible for birds and beasts of prey to be directed to their food at such vast distances; for these corpuscles issuing from putrid bodies, and floating in the air, are carried by the wind to different quarters; where striking the olfactory nerves of whatever animals they meet in their way, immediately conduct them to the spot: and it is by this means the small-pox, measles, putrid fevers, and all epidemic complaints, are communicated, and the plague and pestilence conveyed from one place to another.

"It matters not how much the effluvia may be gone off, so as enough remains to irritate the olfactory organ: for whether it be bird or beast, they try the scent in all directions, till at length they discover that which is stronger and stronger, in proportion as they proceed; and this Nature has taught them to know is the direct and obvious road to their prey, and prevents them from following a contrary course, which is naturally weaker and weaker, and what in hunting is called _heel_. This observation is confirmed by the encreasing eagerness we perceive in all animals, the nearer they approach the object of pursuit; as we see hounds and spaniels in HUNTING and SHOOTING, are the most earnest, in proportion as the scent is recent, and they draw nearer to the GAME. The same thing amongst quadrupeds, whether wild or domestic, directs the male to the female that is in season for love; and hence we see the DOG, the BOAR, the BULL, and the STALLION, when turned loose, apply their nostrils to the ambient air, and proceed accordingly. By the same medium the vermin which infest our dwellings know how to direct their operations; whether to undermine walls, eat through solid boards, cross rivers, or climb spouts; which shows how much stronger the faculty of smelling is possessed by the _brute_ than the HUMAN species; wisely ordained by NATURE, to enable them to seek their food, and propagate their species; but for which they would often perish, or have long since become extinct."

SOMERVILE, seemingly anxious to explore this hidden source of instinct, conceives the SCENT (divested of the dignity of blank verse) to arise from the peculiar property of the blood; which, when the game is on foot, is so encreased in its circulation, that the "ferous particles" are propelled through the skin in perspiration, and

"Leaves a long-steaming trail behind; which, by
The cooler air condens'd, remains, unless
By some rude storm dispers'd, or rarefy'd
By the meridian sun's intenser heat:
To every shrub the warm effluvia cling,
Hang on the grass, impregnate earth and skies.
With nostrils opening wide, o'er hill, o'er dale,
The vig'rous hounds pursue, with ev'ry breath,
Inhale the grateful steam, quick pleasures sting
Their tingling nerves, while their thanks repay,
And in triumphant melody confess
The titillating joy. Thus on the air
Depends the hunter's hopes."

MR. BECKFORD, equally energetic in his endeavours to discover and ascertain the origin and property of SCENT, very modestly confesses his state of uncertainty, in a few lines preparatory to his remarks made in a letter to his friend, where he observes, "As you ask me my opinion of SCENT, I think I had better give it you before we begin upon the subject of HUNTING. I must, at the same time, take the liberty of telling you, that you have puzzled me exceedingly; for scent is, I believe, what we SPORTSMEN know least about. SOMERVILE, the only one I know of who has thrown any light upon the subject of HUNTING, says, I think, but little about scent; I send you his words: I shall afterwards add a few of my own." Adverting then to the conclusion of the above quotation, he most judiciously proceeds:

"I cannot agree with MR. SOMERVILE, in thinking that SCENT depends on the AIR only; it depends also on the soil. Without doubt, the best scent is that which is occasioned by the effluvia, as he calls it, or particles of scent, which are constantly perspiring from GAME as it _runs_, and are strongest and most favourable to the hound, when kept by the gravity of the air to the height of his breast: for then it neither is above his reach, nor is it necessary he should stoop for it. At such times scent is said to lie _breast high_. Experience tells us, that difference of soil occasions difference of SCENT; and on the richness and moderate moistness of the _soil_ does it also depend, I think, as well as on the AIR. At the time leaves begin to fall, and before they are rotted, we know that the scent lies ill in covert. This alone would be a sufficient proof, that scent does not depend on the _air only_. A difference of scent is also occasioned by a difference of motion; the faster the game goes, the less scent it leaves. When game has been ridden after, and hurried on by imprudent sportsmen, the scent is less favourable to hounds; one reason of which may be, that the particles of scent are then more dissipated. But if the game should have been run by a dog not belonging to the pack, seldom will any scent remain.

"I believe it is very difficult to ascertain what SCENT exactly is: I have known it alter very often in the same day. I believe, however, that it depends chiefly on two things; _the condition the ground is in, and the temperature of the air_; both of which, I apprehend, should be moist, without being wet: when both are in this condition, the scent is then perfect; and _vice versa_, when the ground is hard, and the air dry, there seldom will be any scent. It scarce ever lies with a north or an east wind; a southerly wind, without rain, and a westerly wind, that is not rough, are the most favourable. Storms in the air are great enemies to scent, and seldom fail to take it entirely away. A fine sun-shiny day is not often a good hunting day; but what the French call _jour des dames_, warm without sun, is generally a perfect one: there are not many such in a whole season. In some fogs, I have known the scent lie high; in others, not at all; depending, I believe, on the quarter the WIND is _then_ in. I have known it lie very high in a mist, when not _too wet_; but if the wet should hang on the boughs and bushes, it will fall upon the scent, and deaden it. When the dogs roll, the scent, I have frequently observed, seldom lies; for what reason, I know not; but, with permission, if they smell strong when first they come out of the kennel, the proverb is in their favour; and _that smell_ is a prognostic of good luck.

"When cobwebs hang on the bushes, there is seldom much scent. During a white frost, the scent lies high; as it also does when the frost is quite gone: at the time of its going off, scent never lies: it is a critical minute for hounds, in which their game is frequently lost. In a great dew, the scent is the same. In heathy countries, where the game _brushes_ as it goes along, scent seldom fails. Where the ground _carries_, the scent is bad, for a very evident reason, which hare-hunters, who pursue their game over greasy fallows, and through dirty roads, have great reason to complain of. A wet night frequently produces good chases, as then the game neither like to run the COVERT, nor the ROADS. It has been often remarked, that scent lies best in the richest soils; and countries which are favourable to horses, are seldom so to hounds. I have also observed, that in some particular places, let the temperature of the air be as it may, scent never lies."

Amidst the various opinions upon the origin and property of scent, the most opposite join issue upon the simple question of doubt; whether the particles of effluvia which constitute what is termed scent, and by which hounds are excited to follow the game, are proper identical parts of the animal's body emitted in exhalations of respiration from the lungs, or by the transpiration of perspirative matter through the skin. This, perhaps, is of too abstruse a depth for the utmost extent of human wisdom to explore with success. The opinion of SOMERVILE seems founded upon the very basis of experimental observation, bettered by the sound judgment, and practical remarks, upon the promoting, or retarding, effects of both the atmosphere and soil; to which one circumstance alone seems to convey additional rays of elucidation. It must be recollected by every sportsman, who has occasionally taken the field with HARRIERS, that, although they have _picked the trail_ for a mile, into the very _stubble_, _fallow_, or _covert_, where the hare is sitting in her form; although they are trying round her in every direction, and even within a very few yards; there is then no more palpable perceptible scent, than when they trailed at half a mile from her form; and when she _lays close_, it is evident the dog, or dogs, derive no additional advantage from being nearer to her, (in respect to finding,) unless by _stealing away_, or jumping up, she gets into motion, when the scent is then afloat, and continued as already described.

Whether this enquiry will ever be traced to the source of certainty, is almost immaterial; it is a large field for the speculation of philosophy, and well worthy investigation. From a contemplative review of the operations of nature, it is evidently demonstrated, that there is a secret instinctive principle infused into the whole race of animals, whereby they are impulsively propelled to the propagation of their species, the preservation of their offspring, or an implicit pursuit of their propensities; so that no one shall become too numerous and destructive for the existence of another upon whom they prey, or with which they live in a perpetual state of warfare. It is likewise to be remarked, that the greater likeness we discover in the form of the animal creation, the more we perceive their friendly disposition to each other; because the scent of their bodies afford a pleasing gratification to the sensitive faculty, without exciting the appetite; if it was not for which all-wise dispensation of a superior and invisible Power, the same species would devour each other, and the purposes of the creation would be annihilated by the operation of its own works.

SCHIRROUS.—The substance or enlargement so called, is an accumulation of obstructed or extravasated lymph, becoming more and more indurated by its stagnant retention. All tumours of this description, either in MAN or _beast_, should be attended to in their infancy; when warm stimulants, and powerful repellents, may be expected to have a proper effect, previous to their having acquired induration; after which no hope of obliteration can be indulged, but by instrumental extirpation. From the reflection naturally arising upon which, will appear the prudent necessity of paying early attention to swellings and enlargements of every description; that nature may be assisted in her own efforts, and her indications promoted without delay. Those tumours which are hard, and seemingly insensible, not feeling pain upon pressure, are of the indurated and schirrous kind; all swellings, and enlargements, in which there is palpable heat, constant pain, and a shrinking from the touch, denote SUPPURATION, which should be promoted by means of FOMENTATIONS and POULTICES applicable to the purpose; for where there is a well encouraged formation of matter, and a good discharge, there is seldom any disappointment in the expectation of a speedy cure.

SCIATICA—is a species of RHEUMATISM attacking a horse in one or both hind quarters, which is sometimes so severe, as to render him nearly or quite immoveable in his stall. It will be found enlarged on under the head RHEUMATISM, where the means of relief are properly pointed out.

SCOURING.—A horse is said to have a scouring, when the body labours under a continued LOOSENESS, similar to a course of purgation, without any perceptible cause. Some, called fluey carcased horses, are liable to this disorder from a variety of trifling causes, explained more largely under the head LOOSENESS, which see.

SCRATCHES—are cracks in the heels of horses, which are originally produced by the changes of weather, and their being left with _wet_ heels in the winter season. These, when long neglected, assume a degree of virulence, and, from small, and almost imperceptible cracks, become clefts with ragged edges, acquiring, by degrees, a kind of fungous callosity. From these a fœtid oily ichor is discharged, attended with an inflamed tension of the fetlock-joints, and so much constant pain, that the horse is unwilling to move in his stall, unless compelled so to do; and when a leg is lifted from the ground, he suspends it for some time, in a seeming state of misery, from the fear of putting it again to the ground. The cure consists solely in daily fomentations of warm, well-boiled, gelatinous gruel, with a sponge; followed by linseed poultices; dressings of digestive ointment; a few DIURETIC BALLS, given three days apart; and, lastly, a course of ALTERATIVE POWDERS, to obtund and correct the acrimony in the blood. If they have been permitted, by neglect and inattention, to reach their most inveterate state, displaying prominent fungous warts, or small tetters, mild escharotics, or instrumental scarifications, must be brought into use; without one or both of which, an early or certain cure will not be obtained.

SCUT.—The tail of either HARE or RABBIT is so called.

SEAMS—was a term formerly in use to signify the re-union of divided parts in the hoof of a horse, as a cured SANDCRACK; or the cleft at the junction of a FALSE QUARTER, with the uninjured part of the foot.

SEAT,—the position on horseback. A person once mounted, and sitting at his ease, free from every seeming constraint, with his body pliably erect, his thighs and knees adhering closely to the skirts of the saddle, an easy freedom in his legs, and a personal motion corresponding with the action of the horse, is said to have a GOOD SEAT. Those who are always changing their position, throwing about their arms, swinging their legs, looking every way but the right, with stirrups too _long_, too _short_, or probably one shorter than the other, are horsemen of a very different description, having a very _bad seat_, or rather no seat at all.

SETONS—are artificial drains (or minor kind of rowels) in horses, corresponding in effect with the issues inserted in the arms or thighs of the human species. They are generally made upon the cheek, or under the jaws of a horse, for some defect in, or inflammation of the eyes. A writer of much celebrity admits "their utility to be very great, because they facilitate the discharge of matter from abscesses, without the necessity of admitting much air; the influence of which upon an ulcer, produces pain and symptomatic fever." Another observes, that, "when tumours are taken in time, whether on the POLL, WITHERS, or BACK, not having been injudiciously retarded by common farriers, (whose management in this case is always _worse_ than the DISEASE,) they may be carried off, and brought to heal by the discharge from SETONS, without any of the usual _butchery_, or cauterization, or the least blemish or loss of parts. FARRIERS (he continues) are always very much disposed to proceed with the _knife_, before the matter of the TUMOUR is fully concocted, by which error they treble the difficulty, protract the period of cure, and probably leave an indurated enlargement, which is never effaced."

The operation is in itself exceedingly simple, and is thus performed: the practitioner being provided with a seton needle, of a size and length proper for the tumour to be discussed, and having armed it with a sufficient number of cotton threads, in proportion to the effect required, and dipped in digestive ointment warm, the needle is to be introduced (if possible) at the upper part of the swelling, and the point conducted through the whole, and brought out at the bottom, as a depending orifice is of considerable advantage in assisting the discharge. The seton having been passed through the ABSCESS or TUMOUR, is then separated from the needle, and the two ends tied together: or if the length will not admit of that, a knot may be formed, or a wooden button may be affixed to each end, by which it may be occasionally pulled up or down, as when the two ends are tied together, it may be moved in a circle. When the swelling is perfectly reduced, and the offending matter entirely run off, the seton may be withdrawn, and the orifice will soon unite, and form a cicatrix, without any farther application.

SETTING DOG—is perhaps, in respect to natural formation and effect, the most beautiful and attracting of the canine species: there is an elegance of figure, an uniformity of shape, make, and speed; a pleasing variegation in colour, (being generally yellow, or brown pied;) an inexpressibly anxious solicitation of notice, and an aspect of affability and anticipating gratitude, beyond the power of the PENCIL to _depict_, or the PEN to _describe_. The sporting business of the SETTING-DOG (commonly called the English setter) is precisely the same with the POINTER, but with this difference, that, admitting their olfactory sensations to be equally exquisite, and that ONE can discover and receive the _particles_ of SCENT (alias the effluvia of the game) as readily, and at an equal distance, with the OTHER, the difference of the sport, in which they are separately engaged, renders it necessary that one should do upon his legs, what the other does by prostration upon the ground; and they are neither _more_ or _less_ than the effect of education; for as in the sport of SHOOTING (with the pointer) the GAME is expected to _rise_, so in drawing (with a setting-dog and net) the BIRDS are required to _lie_.

Naturalists seem to have assumed a greater degree of _latitude_ in respect to the CANINE SPECIES, than in any other part of the creation, where they have been _less_ at a _loss_. Great musical teachers inculcate strongly, one forcible precept upon the _minds_ and _memories_ of their PUPILS, which is, "when they happen to err in execution, _never to stop_; because it will inevitably serve to convince the auditors, such are inadequate to the task they have undertaken; when by _keeping on_, not one in fifty may know an accidental mis-movement has taken place." Just so it seems to have been with speculative delineators of the CANINE RACE; where the pedigree could not be ascertained, the peculiar kind of any distinct class appears to have been _accidentally_ forgotten. It does not seem that the _origin_ of the POINTER is any where described, or by any writer attempted; but by the most respected authority we have, from whence information, instruction, and entertainment, can and may be derived, we are told, "the HOUND, the SETTING-DOG, and the TERRIER, are only one and the _same race_ of DOGS; for it has been remarked, that the same birth has produced setting-dogs, terriers, and hounds, though the hound bitch has only had access to one of the three dogs." The true state of the case is precisely this, that although Nature, in her outlines, has furnished the canine race with powerful instinctive properties, by which their propensities, their pleasures, their dislikes, and attachments, may be disclosed; and notwithstanding it must be admitted, their olfactory sensations are refined in an extreme degree beyond the human species; yet much depends upon the means, mode and manner of education. This has been demonstrated a few years since beyond all manner of controversy, when a gamekeeper absolutely brought a full-grown PIG to _hunt_ and _point_ to the BIRDS; and procured a considerable emolument from displaying repeated proofs of his ingenuity, patience, and perseverance.

SETTER,—in the game of HAZARD, is the person who _sets_ the CASTER; or, in other words, the player, who makes stakes with the person holding the box and dice, who, if he THROWS IN, draws the money; on the contrary, if he _throws out_, the setter is the winner.

SETTER-TO—is a term in cocking. The setter-to is the person who in a cock-pit receives the cock (going to fight) from the feeder, and hands him upon the SOD during the battle, according to the laws of the pit, and the conditions of the match. See COCKING, COCK-PIT, and MAIN of COCKS.

SHANK-BONE,—in a horse, is the bone extending from the knee to the fetlock-joint. This bone should be uniform, firm and compact, well proportioned to the length of the fore-arm above, and the pastern below; if too long for either, or both, the symmetry is totally lost; and hence a general objection to horses whose legs are _too long_ for the CARCASE, which is a defect readily observed; and indifferent judges are always prepared to say, such a horse has "too much day-light under him."

SHAPE and MAKE.—The "shape and make" of horses offered for sale, is such an eternal echo, whether at the public hammer, or by private contract, from one end of the kingdom to the other, that it is natural to conceive, no sporting subject can be more completely understood; but as there are eternally younger branches coming forward, and monied noviciates _paying_ for practical experience in the _art_ of DEALING, such extensive rules are introduced, to inculcate the absolute necessity for circumspection in BUYING, under the head HORSE, that not a single line of utility can be added upon the subject.

SHARK—was the most capital horse of his time; bred by MR. PIGOTT, foaled in 1771, got by MARSK, dam by _Snap_, out of the dam of _Warwickshire Wag_. This horse was proved, next to CHILDERS and ECLIPSE, to have been possessed of more speed than any horse ever bred or produced in the kingdom. He beat all his cotemporaries at every distance, (_long_ or _short_,) clearly demonstrating his superiority, whether they run for _speed_, or run for _bottom_. His distinct winnings are too remote from the present time to enumerate individually, but they amounted in the aggregate to a GOLD CUP value 123 guineas, eleven hogsheads of claret, and the astonishing sum of 20,000 guineas, in plates, matches, sweepstakes, forfeits, and bets. When no horse in England could be found to start against him, he was taken to America as a STALLION, although it was publicly affirmed, 10,000 guineas were offered for him before his departure; admitting which to be the fact, it could have been done with no other motive than to render him a private STALLION for the mares of those _only_ who subscribed to the aggregate.

SHOEING of HORSES,—which for time immemorial remained in its almost original state, has for the last fourteen years become an object of importance and general investigation. What for a century before was never thought worthy a moment's consideration, but by those whose professional province it was to FORM the SHOES, and _set them on_, is at length found worthy the fashionable and condescending inspection of NOBLEMEN, GENTLEMEN, the _polished_ groom, and the illiterate stable-boy. This change is well known to have originated in the publication of "TAPLIN'S Stable Directory" 1789; which, from its unprecedented popularity, passed through TWELVE editions in the short space of four years. To the appearance of this work, upon a subject so long neglected, are the public indebted for the much-wanted veterinarian improvement which has since taken place; as well as for the constantly increasing influx of veterinary writers, who, speculating upon the success of the original reformer, have obtruded upon the world such an infinity of _imitations_, and such a profusion of what they have thought _improvements_, that the discerning part of the public (plainly perceiving the deceptive imbecility of such attempts) rendered them abortive; a multiplicity of books having been announced upon veterinary subjects within the last seven years, which have been immediately buried in oblivion, without a sale sufficient to pay even for the paper upon which the works were printed.

The rage for an improvement in the system of farriery which TAPLIN'S books had induced, extended to almost every part of the kingdom, and _necessitous_ adventurers became _vulcanian_ speculators in every direction. Various new, important and _infallible_ plans of SHOEING were _hypothetically_ introduced amongst the infant _crop_ of _newly-sown_ veterinarians; one avowed himself an advocate for _long_ shoes; another, for _short_ shoes; a third, for _high_ shoes; a fourth, for _low_ shoes, and _thin_ heels; a fifth, for _half_ shoes; and a still more _sagacious_ groupe of THEORETICIANS, for _no shoes at all_!!! To the great credit of the nation, and the strenuous endeavours of investigating individuals, this fashionable _thirst_ of _folly_, this _infatuating furor_, seems now in a great degree to have subsided, and affords reason to believe, as well as to hope, the _veterinary mania_ has (at least in this respect) attained its CRISIS; and that the only rational, safe, and judicious mode now in general use, will be no more attacked by the wild and chimerical speculations of those, whose want of professional skill and scientific information must ever render their schemes abortive.

That gentlemen will dedicate part of their time to examine the internal structure of the foot, the anatomical formation and junction of the bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilages, and membranes, is not to be expected; but that they will, upon the principle of self-defence, be careful to understand enough of the EXTERIOR, to check occasionally the rude hand of the injudicious or inconsiderate operator, is readily to be believed. The operative act of shoeing, in its general sense, as appertaining to the making of the shoe, the insertion of the nails, and the external finish of the foot, are too well known, and publicly performed, to require the most trifling description. Although one general data, or fixed rule, is laid down, by which all good and sound-footed horses should be shod without an exception, (proportioning the form, size, substance and weight of the shoe to the use of the horse,) yet there are occasional deviations, which cannot consistently be avoided, but must be prudently submitted to, when diseases of the foot, or injuries to the hoof, render them truly necessary. Hoofs, it is well known, are not all alike, nor are the same hoofs always in the same state; some are preserved so by unremitting care, and strict attention; others are permitted to get into decay, and to become diseased by a want of both. The OPERATIVE FARRIER has his different distinctions and denominations for the various kinds of hoof which come under his hand; as the sound, strong, firm, black hoof, which is generally perfect, and seldom either defective or diseased; the rough and brittle hoof, which is mostly wide and weak, requiring nightly stopping at the bottom, and oiling round the top; the long, flat and shelly hoof, which runs all to _toe_, and leaves nothing at the _heel_; the crooked or rather horny hoof, which, from a defect in radical moisture, grows into a wrinkled rigidity, that almost sets both the RASP and BUTTERIS at defiance. There are also others so thin, wide, and expanded above, and the outer sole so prominent on each side the frog below, that such are called fleshy-footed, and require a shoe of peculiar formation, as well as much extra care in setting it on. Some hoofs are so contracted with heat, and narrowed at the heel, (particularly if the frogs are wasted by thrush and corrosion,) that when turned, the vacuum bears the appearance of intentional excavation.

Under this accumulation of considerations, some conditional variations must be admitted, from the fixed and proper rules to be laid down, although the fundamental principle should still be the same; and, notwithstanding the superfluous and destructive freedom of the _drawing-knife_ and _butteris_, are frequently, and with great justice, condemned; yet they must sometimes be brought into moderate use: but those who render them subservient to the purposes required, should invariably retain it in memory, that more may be injudiciously destroyed in _five_ minutes, than can possibly be restored in TEN months. The entire ART of SHOEING may be reduced to a very concise description, and consists in paring the foot (when it is necessary) with judgment, tenderness, and safety; to form the shoe with good, substantial, sound, Swedish iron, of a shape and make hereafter to be described; in selecting nails of a proper size, length, or strength, equally adapted to the shape of the foot, and the weight of the shoe; and, lastly, to the very critical task of driving them properly, clinching them firmly, and finishing the foot neatly.

The act itself being thus publicly seen in practice, and generally comprehended, it becomes only necessary (amidst the variety of speculative opinions lately obtruded upon public notice) to introduce such comparative reasoning, and practical proof, of the superior excellence and rational propriety of the execution, as may enable every reader to take an impartial survey of the different modes recommended, in doing which, he is then at liberty to adopt which ever he may be induced to think approaches the nearest to perfection.

Amidst the great variety of attracting _novelties_ which issued from the press, after the publication of TAPLIN'S PATTERN SHOES, was "a concave shoe," most zealously recommended by the PROFESSOR of a public institution, since deceased; who, had he lived only a few weeks longer, would have received the most unequivocal proofs of the _fallacy_ of the _theory_, when put into competition with the UNERRING criterion of PRACTICE: but happily for him, and luckily for his great and opulent friends, (who were daily and shamefully forsaking him,) he died just in time to save his reputation. Suffice it, therefore, in delicacy to his error, as well as to his memory, only to observe, that the SHOE passing under that denomination (having a smooth or flat inside to cover the foot, and a concave surface, to come in contact with the ground or pavement) was the very _reverse_ of what it should be, and only calculated to render tender, if not cripple, any horse, if obstinately persevered in; as will be candidly admitted by every reader of rationality, when the representation of the FOOT, the form of the SHOE, and the setting on of that shoe, are taken into distinct and separate consideration.

That this may be done with a more comprehensive and general effect, divested of SCIENTIFIC disquisition, or ANATOMICAL ambiguity, a PLATE is annexed; which, with very little explanatory matter, will afford the most perfect and satisfactory elucidation. A is the representation of a sound, firm, well-formed HOOF, in a slate of unembellished nature: here is evidently no devastation required—no paring off at the heel—no slicing off from the sole—no cutting-knife at the toe; nor does it, with an eye of the strictest judgment and circumspection, seem to claim or solicit from the art of man, any other assistance, than protection against the injury it must inevitably sustain from harder bodies, when brought into use by constant collision. That this fair and candid investigation may be the less liable to miscontruction, and that cynical misrepresentation, or envious opposition, may not (even in the weakest minds) warp the effect of truth, let it be observed, that the circular line marked 1 is the line of articulation, or, in other words, the distinct line of separation; around which is the _wall_ or _crust_ of the HOOF, (in itself insensible,) where the bearing only should be, and where the figure 5 of E will be found accurately formed for its reception.

That part of the foot extending from the line of separation on one side, to the corresponding line of separation on the other, having the FROG in the center, and marked 2 on each side, is called the _outer sole_, covering a membranous mass, or substance, called the _inner sole_, which is of exquisite sensibility, requiring PROTECTION without _pressure_ upon the external part; which it will be seen (by referring to the PLATE) is sufficiently afforded by the concave formation at Fig. 6 of letter E, which, upon the accurate inspection of the best informed and most experienced investigators, must be admitted a shoe of the first perfection for the promotion of every good, and the prevention of every ill.

Having thus produced both _foot_ and _shoe_, as unsullied representations of NATURE and ART, and adapted the _make_ of _one_ to the _formation_ of the other, with a consistency no man of common comprehension will presume to dispute, we proceed to an impartial examination of the letter B, which represents the mode of SHOEING adopted, and some time persevered in, at a place of veterinary celebrity, upon the discontinuance of the very _short-lived_ concave shoe.

As it is a remark of long standing, that the _exterior_ strikes _first_, so we shall find here, that, upon a superficial survey of the letter B, there is a neatness in the execution, that seems to excite attention, and command respect; but when it is critically examined with the eye of precision, and its deficiencies pointed out, it then loses all power of permanent attraction, and will advance no well-founded claim to approbation or imitation. Admitting (as it is presumed no opposition whatever arises to the fact) that the _wall_ of the FOOT represented by Fig. 1, should have its bearing upon the properly-adapted part of the shoe, ascertained by referring to Fig. 5 of E, and continued home to the extreme point of the heel accurately terminated by the Fig. 7 of C; let us see what would be the inevitable consequence of having the shoes an inch and a half too short at each heel, as represented by Fig. 3 of B, where NATURE, REASON, OBSERVATION, and EXPERIENCE, concentrate their whole force to demonstrate the consistency, the safety, in fact, the indispensible necessity, of its being continued to Fig. 4 of B, as is already explained by previous reference to Fig. 7 of C.

Convinced, therefore, beyond the shadow of doubt, (as every reader may by another reference to No. 1,) that the _wall_ of the HOOF holds forth its _own proof_, that the shoe should be continued home to the extreme _point_ of the _heel_, or that it requires _no shoe at all_; and this alternative being first understood, and then acceded to, by every comprehension, it will be equally clear, that as much as _art_ falls _short_ in the support which NATURE requires, proportional must the injury be, by the inevitable _indentation_; invariably productive of bruises, and tenderness upon the _edge_ of the _sole_, thereby laying the foundation of preternatural stricture, _corns_, _callosities_, and other _ills_, which would be more perfectly understood by an examination of any such subject, after a shoe _one_ _third too short_ had been eight or ten days in constant wear.

By way of concluding observations upon the PLATE, and its purpose, it becomes only necessary to remark, that the letter C is the hoof of a large saddle or carriage horse, well covered for the _pavement_ of the METROPOLIS, or travelling upon the turnpike-road. That the letter B is a perfect model of good shoeing for HUNTER or HACKNEY, provided the heel of the shoe was continued to Fig. 4, instead of terminating at 3. That Fig. 8 is called the _web_ of the SHOE, which is, in fact, no more than the whole breadth of the iron, and may be widened, or narrowed, entirely by the _judgment_ of the SMITH, or the discretion of the OWNER. That Fig. 9 is the cavity called the _groove_, or fullering, to receive the heads of the nails, above which (in SHOEING of EXCELLENCE, and superiority) they should never constitute a prominence; and that the letter D is no more than a back view of the short shoe, for some time so powerfully recommended, which has already most deservedly fallen into disrepute.

Having considered it necessary to introduce such minute references as will sufficiently demonstrate the difference between _good_ shoeing and _bad_, it remains only to add a single deficiency of SHOEING SMITHS in general, who, from _indolence_, _inattention_, or _inability_, entirely lose sight of, or never form at all, the proper line of distinction between the bearing of Fig. 5 for the crust (or _wall_) Fig. 1; and the protection afforded the _outer sole_, Fig. 2, by the internal concave example in Fig. 6. Considering this remissness in the operator, and shoeing too _short_ at the _heels_, to constitute the prevalent and principal errors requiring rectification, it is anxiously to be hoped, that those whose minds are open to conviction, will contribute their assistance to inculcate the necessity of adopting one invariable standard as a leading step to general reformation.

SHOEING SMITH.—The shoeing smith, more frequently known by the denomination of BLACKSMITH or FARRIER, is, unluckily for those who profess it, a business of much greater bodily labour than professional emolument; hence it is, that few, except the very lowest classes of society, can ever be prevailed upon to engage in it. Here then has always been the deficiency so much complained of, and so universally known, with all the practitioners of the old school, acting as SMITHS and FARRIERS, whether in town or country; and it is much to be regretted, that their original want of education, the means of instruction, and their total ignorance of the _properties_ of MEDICINE, should have hitherto secluded them from every chance of mental improvement, and personal emulation. If we advert to their _manners_, we find them in direct uniformity with their intellectual capacity: _rude_ by _nature_, they become _cunning_ by _art_; unfortunately _untaught_, it is their greatest pride to become proportionally _untractable_, and know so little themselves, they confidently affect to believe but _little_ is known by _others_: shielded by which ideal sagacity, they obstinately persist in an opinion of _their own_, in opposition to every other, or individually determine to abide by no rational opinion _at all_.

When a candid comparison is made between their dangerous and laborious employment and their disproportioned emoluments, it must be admitted by every mind of liberality, they are the _worst paid_ for their drudgery of any set of men in the universe. Hence arises that _sterile apathy_ in the business, which is so much the subject of general indignation and universal contempt; and is the only well-founded reason, why there are so few men of education, or intellectual ability, to be found amidst the daily increasing number who profess the practice. Custom, too, has excluded them from any respectable weight in the scale of society; thereby rendering the obstacles to worldly elevation too numerous, and too uncertain, for even the most laudable and spirited emulation to encounter, with even a distant probability of success. These considerations readily reconcile it to reason, why (upon the most moderate calculation, taking the kingdom in general from one extremity to another) there are not more than one in every hundred, who exists by the practice of SHOEING and FARRIERY, that can speak with precision upon the _property_ of the MEDICINE he prescribes; or elucidate, with propriety, the probable process, or ultimate effect, of the OPERATION he _recommends_.

In such predicament, probably anxious to do good, without the _personal power_ to EFFECT it, they may be impartially considered "men more sinned against than sinning;" and, in many instances, much more entitled to the commiseration of the enlightened, than the contemptuous indifference they so frequently receive. Happily, however, for the vocation itself, much more happily for the community at large, improvement in the PRACTICE of FARRIERY has at length become an object of national consideration; and the institution has been repeatedly honored with PARLIAMENTARY CONTRIBUTIONS; under which predictive ray of reformation, part of the present generation may probably not only derive future advantage, but live to see the former system rescued from the _ignorance_ and _barbarity_ by which it has been for so many centuries disgraced. The great hazard arising from the practice of the injudicious or ill informed, is their possessing an unrestrained power of plunging into a bold and inconsiderate use of the most _dangerous_ medicines, the present operation and ultimate effect of which they so _little_ understand, and are so absolutely _unable_ to explain.

It is no uncommon thing to hear of _bleeding_, _rowelling_, _purging_, _glystering_, and _blistering_, nearly all taking place (with the same subject) within the space of _twenty-four_ hours; and could a _thousandth_ part of the poor unfortunate animals so rashly annihilated, but _rise_, and _recite_, the load of medical _combustibles_ and _contrarieties_ by which they were _destined_ to their _long_ and _last_ sleep, what a complicated history of the MATERIA MEDICA would be brought to light, and what a scene of _professional knowledge_ displayed, to form the basis of REFORMATION, with that long list of sublime disquisitionists, who, waving the disgraceful appellations of _smith_ and _farrier_, are becoming VETERINARY SURGEONS in almost every remote corner of the kingdom! One great and almost invincible error amongst the veterinarian fraternity (of whom there are many _juveniles_ now to be seen) is their superficial survey, and hasty decision, in cases of the utmost magnitude; anticipating the _prognostics_, without even descending to examine the predominant _symptoms_ of DISEASE. Passionately fond of _affecting infallibility_, they rashly promise _more_ than they find themselves able to perform; and thus by their own weakness, voluntarily exposed, are frequently compelled to _retract to-morrow_, what they have most inconsiderately asserted _to-day_; thereby overwhelming themselves with a load of professional _disgrace_, from which there seems no sanguine prospect of speedy extrication.

SMITHS and FARRIERS in general, being unfortunately ignorant in the peculiar property of each particular medicine, is not a greater misfortune, than their being absolute strangers to the _medicines themselves_, thereby becoming the standing dupes of adulteration. The warehouses and shops of inferior druggists, it is well known by men of experience, are by no means remarkable for professional _purity_; in some obscure corner of which is generally a _reservoir_ of _rubbish_, admirably adapted to the _prise_ and _practice_ of FARRIERS, with whom a custom so laudable has been established for time immemorial, and from the palpable pecuniary effects upon both parties is not likely to be abolished.

SHOOTING—is become a sport of so much pleasure and universality, that the legislature has found it expedient to extract an annual contribution of THREE GUINEAS from every individual who enjoys it. In fact, it is so perfectly congenial to the dispositions of the people, and so truly conducive to the greatest blessing in life, HEALTH, that it should seem its votaries have annually increased in proportion to the conditional restraints of parliamentary prohibition. SHOOTING, in its most extensive signification, may be supposed to imply the act of shooting with a fowling-piece, at any object in general, without a specific determination; but, narrowed into a less diffuse, and more expressive compass, it is then reduced to the more particular points thus defined. PHEASANT shooting, PARTRIDGE shooting, GROUSE shooting, COCK shooting, RABBIT shooting, SNIPE shooting, DUCK, WILD FOWL, &c. These are pleasures varying a little in the difference of pursuit and enjoyment, but have, according to the season, their various degrees of attraction. Pheasant shooting begins (under certain penalties and restrictions, if killed _before_ or _after_ the days mentioned) on the _first_ of _October_ in every year, and ends on the _first_ of _February_ following. Partridge shooting begins on the _first_ of _September_, and extends to the _first_ of _February_ next ensuing. The season (under similar restrictions, but heavier penalties) for killing HEATH-FOWL, or black game, commences on the 20th of _August_, and terminates on the 10th of _December_; and for grouse, or red game, on the 12th of _August_, and ends on the 10th of _December_. Woodcocks and Snipes being birds of passage, and not included in any act for the preservation of game, the time for killing is unlimited; being entirely dependent upon the season, the country they appear in, and the flights as they arrive.

PHEASANT SHOOTING may be considered the most laborious, and least entertaining, of the whole, unless in Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Hampshire, and some other counties, where the large tracts of lofty woodlands, and corresponding underwood, contribute so materially to their annual increase and preservation. This sport is mostly pursued with the small springing spaniel, whose eager tongue, the moment he touches _scent_ of the _foot_, or _winds_ the _bird_, gives "early note of earnest preparation." Pointers of great strength, and high courage, hunted with _a bell_, are frequently instrumental to good sport, and great success; but they must be fast goers, and once knowing their business, not readily disposed to _stop_, or _draw_ slowly; if so, the bird will frequently rise in the highest part of the covert, or at such _a distance_, that an open shot will but seldom be obtained, particularly in a country thin of game. Those who wish to preserve well-bred and well-broke pointers in a state of unsullied excellence, will not accustom them to covert hunting, but invariably use their spaniels in one of the sports for which they were so evidently intended.

PARTRIDGE SHOOTING is, to a contemplative mind, of a much more entertaining description; for the objects of pursuit being found in the open fields, every part of the sport is seen and enjoyed. Partridges are not in equal abundance every year, but depend in a great degree upon the state of the weather during the time of _laying_ the _eggs_, as well as the time of HATCHING; which is almost invariably between the _middle_ and the _end_ of JUNE. When the months of MAY and JUNE are dry, birds are in general exceedingly numerous, and proportionally strong upon wing by the commencement of the SHOOTING SEASON; but when heavy and dreadful rains fall, as they frequently do during the HAY HARVEST, the destruction is incredible. Such continued rains not only chill the eggs during incubation, but drown numbers of the young almost so soon as they are out of their shells. Wet seasons also are destructive to ANTS, upon which, and their eggs, young partridges and pheasants principally subsist. Partridges so soon as the corn is cut down, and they are in a great degree deprived of the shelter and protection under which they were bred, display a most wonderful timidity and dread of danger; to which the whole covey are induced by the unceasing anxiety of the HEN for the safety of her young.

Thus incessantly alive to perpetual fear, they change their situation repeatedly in the course of the day; as well to insure security from all probable danger, as to supply the calls of nature. In the first part of the shooting season, while the _stubbles_ of WHEAT and BARLEY are fresh, and not rendered too bare, or too much beaten by cattle, they are to be found in either one or the other, both late at night, and early in the morning: after feeding in which, (if not disturbed by the approach of those in pursuit of them,) by a signal from the hen, they rise gently, as it were, in a cluster, and glide or skim along with as little flutter as possible to the nearest turnips, standing clover, rushy moors, or grassy low coverts, in some of which, during the middle of the day, they are always to be found; and not unfrequently near a watry ditch, or running stream; as it is at this time, and only once a day, they take this part of their sustenance: but as there are many hilly countries in which water is but rarely to be found, it is natural to conclude, their wants in this respect may be amply supplied by the morning dewdrops with which vegetation so plentifully abounds.

The dogs peculiarly appropriate to and used in this sport, are principally POINTERS, at least with those who rank as SPORTSMEN, and have too high a respect for its character to degrade the order; and it is never pursued with greater consistency, or enjoyed with greater ecstasy, (or more success,) than when _too many guns_, or _too many_ dogs, are not seen in the field together. Any number above two of the former, and two brace of the latter, in one company, evidently denote much more of _poaching rapacity_, and an intentional annihilation of GAME, than of SPORTING equity. DOUBLE-BARRELLED GUNS partake a little of the same impression, being admirably calculated to promote the very scarcity so much and so constantly complained of. The art of SHOOTING FLYING, in which numbers are so exceedingly expert, and which, in fact, may be so easily attained, is not, in general, acquired with that facility by young sportsmen, which might naturally be expected. This is entirely owing to the _timidity_, _volatility_, _anxiety_, and _impatience_, of the mind, at the very critical moment when all should be _quiet_ and _calm_ within; but at the impressive crisis, when the point takes place, and the animal is fixed seemingly immoveable, under an instinctive impulse, which instantaneously excites in the human frame a most aweful sensation, (the heart palpitating with HOPE, FEAR, and SUSPENSE,) the birds rise, and with so much noisy rapidity, that the mind and body being equally agitated, no particular bird is singled for the AIM, at the instant of _pulling_ the _trigger_, and the whole escape.