The Sporting Dictionary, And Rural Repository - free ebook by William Taplin

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The Sporting Dictionary, And Rural Repository

William Taplin

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THE SPORTING DICTIONARY, AND RURAL REPOSITORY OF GENERAL INFORMATION UPON EVERY SUBJECT APPERTAINING TO THE SPORTS OF THE FIELD.

THE SPORTING DICTIONARY, AND RURAL REPOSITORY OF GENERAL INFORMATION UPON EVERY SUBJECT APPERTAINING TO THE SPORTS OF THE FIELD.

INSCRIBED TO THE RIGHT HONOURABLE THE EARL OF SANDWICH, Master of His Majesty's Stag Hounds . BY WILLIAM TAPLIN, Author of the Gentleman's Stable Directory . IN TWO VOLUMES. VOL. I. LONDON. Printed by Thomas Maiden, Sherbourn-Lane, FOR VERNOR AND HOOD, LONGMAN AND REES, J. SCATCHERD, J. WALKER, AND J. HARRIS. 1803. INSCRIBED TO THE RIGHT HONOURABLE THE EARL OF SANDWICH, Master of His Majesty's Stag Hounds . BY WILLIAM TAPLIN, Author of the Gentleman's Stable Directory . IN TWO VOLUMES. VOL. I. L

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DEDICATION

DEDICATION

TO THE RIGHT HONOURABLE THE EARL OF SANDWICH, MASTER OF HIS MAJESTY's STAG HOUNDS . It is now twenty Years since your Lordship's Appointment to the Head of his Majesty's Hunting Establishment, during which it has acquired a Degree of Perfection and Celebrity, hitherto unprecedented in the Annals of Sporting History. From the impressive Influence of your Lordship's philanthropic Representations, every Subordinate within the utmost Limits of your Lordship's Department, has derived an annual Additi

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PREFACE.

PREFACE.

The variety of Publications annually announced under SPORTING TITLES , with which the contents, upon examination, are found so ill to accord, first suggested to the Writer, the idea of forming an aggregate of information, from whence both entertainment and instruction (to the young and inexperienced) might be derived. From a review of the works now extant, under titles nearly similar, it was found they were the productions of more than a century past. These having been repeatedly re-copied, and

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Authors

Authors

,—who have dedicated much time and labour to the infinity of subjects which these Volumes will contain, have been both numerous and respectable; and to those who are accustomed to see things through a single medium, it will seem matter of surprise, that any thing NEW , INSTRUCTIVE , or ENTERTAINING , should be still left worthy of public attention; but when the unceasing influence, and decisive dictates of fashion; the abolition of old sports, and introduction of new; the various regulations in,

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ARTISTS

ARTISTS

—are gentlemen, the aid of whose pencils, in the decorative department of sporting publications, is considered so immediately necessary (particularly with the younger branches) in all matters of minutiæ requiring accurate representation, that the success is frequently considered doubtful and uncertain without the attractive influence of their professional exertions. It has been observed, and must be freely admitted, that, till within the last third of the last century, HORSES , DOGS , and GAME ,

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ABSCESS

ABSCESS

.—An abscess (in either man or beast) is an inflammatory tumour, constituting a progressive formation of matter from some serious injury previously received by blow, bruise, or accident. It may also proceed from plethora, or gross humours originating in a too viscid (or acrimonious) state of the blood; as well as a morbid disposition of the fluids; and many degrees of latent ill usage, to which HORSES are incessantly subject, from the too well-known and irremediable inhumanity of the lower class

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ACADEMY

ACADEMY

,—which for time immemorial has been in use to signify a seminary for youth only, has at length acquired, by the refinement of fashion , the honour of giving more dignity to what has hitherto passed under the denomination of A RIDING SCHOOL ; now transformed, by the sublimity of the superior classes, into an " EQUESTRIAN ACADEMY ;" of which more will be found under the proper and distinct heads of Manege and Riding School ....

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ACCLOYED

ACCLOYED

—is almost obsolete, and will be buried in oblivion with the last FARRIER of the old school . It has been formerly used to signify an injury sustained in the foot by shoeing; as when a nail had swerved from its proper direction, and punctured (or pressed too close upon) the membranous mass so as to occasion lameness, the horse was then said to be "accloyed:" but no well-founded derivation is to be discovered for a term of so much ambiguity....

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ACHE

ACHE

;—pain arising from different causes, originating in blows, wounds, inflammations, and colds; as for instance, the CHRONIC RHEUMATISM , which may be termed a CONTINUAL ACHE ....

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ACRIMONY

ACRIMONY

—is a state of the blood disposed to only certain degrees of disease, by the quantity of serum becoming too great for the proportion of crassamentum, with which, in its state of active fluidity , it is combined for the purpose of regular circulation, so invariably necessary to the standard of health. Blood thus divested of its adhesive property, soon displays in HORSES a tendency to what are termed acrimonious diseases, originating in, and dependent upon, the impoverished state to which it is re

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ACTION

ACTION

—is a word in constant use with the SPORTING world, and horse-dealing fraternity, to express the peculiar property of a horse by his good or bad action: speaking of him as a subject possessing superior powers, he is called "a horse of exceeding fine action;" meaning it to be understood, he is not to be found fault with; that he is calculated to make a very valuable roadster, "as he trots within himself (that is, with ease to himself) fourteen or fifteen miles an hour ;" implying an unequivocal p

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ADDER STUNG

ADDER STUNG

,—a term indiscriminately applied to the bites or stings of venomous animals and insects without distinction; and this probably arose from the frequent discovery of such accidents, without being able to ascertain the cause, or from what enemy the injury was sustained. HORSES , as well as DOGS , are sometimes bit by the VIPER , (called an adder ,) slow-worm, or eft; but much more frequently stung by hornets, wasps; a large gold-coloured, long-bodied, glittering fly, called, "a horse-stinger;" or

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ADULTERATION

ADULTERATION

—is the too prevalent custom of lowering the strength of spirits by the profitable addition of water, thereby reducing the quality by increasing the quantity; or, in words of less paradoxical import, by a most deceptive prostitution of integrity on one side, and an equally shameful imposition upon friendly confidence on the other. This species of lawless tergiversation, bad as it is, cannot be considered so truly unprincipled, so strictly iniquitous, or so cruelly destructive, as the adulteratio

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AGE

AGE

.—The age is generally a leading question respecting any horse offered for sale; and this is at all times to be ascertained with more certainty by the state of the TEETH than any other means whatever; unless he has undergone the secret operation of a DEALER , known by the appellation of " bishoping ," which will be found described under that head. When a horse is more than six years old, he is then termed an aged horse; from which time till seven , the cavities in his teeth fill up; and from sev

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AGUE

AGUE

,—a fever of the intermittent kind, which was for many years a matter of doubt and controversy, whether fevers of this description existed in the horse, or merely in the brain of the FARRIER ; when, after long investigation, strict attention, and steady observation, by practitioners of the first eminence, the point is at length acceded to; and it is admitted that HORSES are subject to, and attacked with, INTERMITTENTS , bearing an affinity to the quotidians , tertians , and quartans , of the hum

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ÆGYPTIACUM

ÆGYPTIACUM

—is a well known and long established external application in veterinary practice, and is thus prepared. Take of verdigrease, finely powdered, five ounces; honey, fourteen ounces; the best white wine vinegar, seven ounces; mix and boil them over a gentle fire to the consistence of treacle or honey. This article, which has so long passed under the denomination of an ointment, and was so called in the London Dispensatory of the College of Physicians, produces, without any additional process, (but

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AIR

AIR

—is the element in which we breathe; a floating (or fluctuating) fluid, with which we are imperceptibly surrounded, and by whose elastic property we are enabled to exist. A philosophic enquiry into, or definition of, the very air itself, is not to the purpose here; nor, indeed, without a demonstrative and practical apparatus, can its wonderful properties be perfectly understood. Its various effects upon both the body and the mind of man, as well in sickness as in health, cannot be lost even upon

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AIR

AIR

,—a technical term in the MANEGE , which can be but little explained in theory; a perfect knowledge of these terms can only be acquired in the practice of the schools....

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AIRING

AIRING

;—the taking of horses from the stable to the enjoyment of AIR and EXERCISE ....

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ALE

ALE

,—the good old healthy English beverage, brewed from malt, hops and water, alone , with no intoxicating or deleterious articles of adulteration. It is an excellent extemporaneous substitute for gruel , in cases of emergency with horses, where it is required as a vehicle in which to dissolve and administer medicine to prevent delay, as in cholic , strangury , &amp;c....

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ALOES

ALOES

—is a resinous gum, extracted from the tree whose name it bears, and is brought to us chiefly from the island of Barbadoes. The shops produce two sorts, called Succotrine and Barbadoes ; the former of which is the mildest ; but the latter most in use, to insure the certainty of operation. It is the principal ingredient in purging balls for horses....

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ALTERATIVES

ALTERATIVES

.—Medicines are so called which constitute an effect upon the system, or an alteration in the property of the blood , without any sensible internal or visible external operation. Upon their introduction to the stomach, they become incorporated with its contents; and their medical properties being taken up by the chyle, is conveyed through the lymphatics to the blood-vessels, where it becomes a part of the blood itself, which being fully impregnated with the neutralizing property of the article a

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ALUM

ALUM

—is an article too well known in the shops, to require farther description, than its medical utility, when, upon any emergency, it may be advantageously brought into use. Reduced to fine powder, and applied as a styptic to the mouths of divided vessels, to stop the effusion of blood, it will be found very efficacious. Dissolved in water, the proportion of one ounce to a pint , it is an infallible cure for the foul white specks, or little watery pustules, so frequently seen in the mouths of horse

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ALIMENT

ALIMENT

—has, in general acceptation, been received as a word strictly synonimous with food; and, like that term, been intended to imply support of any kind, in either a solid or a liquid form. One of the publications with which the press so frequently teems, from the fertile pens of juvenile veterinarians, says, "By ALIMENT , some understand only the nutricious part of the food; but this is a nice and useless distinction. Mr. Taplin uses the word aliment in both senses." To set this upon better ground,

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AMBLE

AMBLE

,—the pace in a horse, almost peculiar to country people, with poneys and galloways bred upon commons: its ease renders it convenient to women, and pleasing to children; but it is in very little use with any other part of the world....

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AMBURY, or Anbury

AMBURY, or Anbury

,—is a complicated excrescence, bearing the appearance of a warty wen. Various have been the modes of cure; to prevent an unnecessary enumeration of which, will be to observe, that they may be safely extirpated, and completely cured, by carefully moistening the surface, once in every three or four days, with the butter of antimony , till they are obliterated; and this will certainly be effected, whatever may be their size or magnitude....

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AMPHIBIOUS

AMPHIBIOUS

—animals, are those capable of living both upon land and in the water, as the otter, the water rat, the eft, &amp;c....

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AMPHITHEATRE

AMPHITHEATRE

—is an elegant and commodious structure, either circular or oblong, for the display of feats of horsemanship, poney races, fox hunts, and the exhibition of pantomimes. Mr. Astley 's, near Westminster Bridge, has for many years been a favourite resort with the public; but he now finds a powerful rival in the Circus . Mr. Astley's skill in the military art of attack and defence , as well as his superior style of teaching in the MANEGE , have jointly increased his reputation, and encouraged him to

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ANATOMY

ANATOMY

,—the study and knowledge of the structure of the human frame in all its component parts; an accurate knowledge of which can only lead the practitioner in surgery to the most distant hope of eminence in his profession, or celebrity in his practice. A proficiency in the anatomical formation of the horse, is every way as necessary to the success of the veterinarian, as the utmost efforts of skill to the surgeon....

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ANGLING

ANGLING

—is the art of catching fish by rods and lines, of different construction, with baits, natural and artificial , according to the season of the year, and the fish intended to be caught. As this sport (if it may with consistency be termed one) is not very eagerly sought, and enjoyed but by few , it will not be much enlarged on here; more particularly as those who enter into the minutiæ of enquiry, and spirit of the practice , will find whole volumes appropriate to this particular purpose. A writer

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ANISEEDS

ANISEEDS

—are the produce of a plant cultivated much more in France, Spain, and Germany, than in any part of England. Those from Spain are preferred; they have a fragrant smell, a warm pleasant taste, with some degree of sweetness. When reduced to powder, they form a principal and efficacious ingredient in the preparation of the pectoral cordial balls for horses, where their virtues are fully admitted. They yield, by expression, an aromatic essential oil, containing all the medical property of the seeds,

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ANTIMONY

ANTIMONY

—is, in its original state, a mineral, extracted and separated from different ores by a peculiar process of eliquation; the various medical preparations from which, in the present state of hourly increasing improvement, absolutely excite both surprise and admiration. This article, now known and proved of such general utility, was alternately received into, and rejected from, a respectable rank in medicine, by both the ancients and moderns, till the more judicious and persevering speculatists est

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ANTLERS

ANTLERS

,—used under different significations to explain the various branches of what is called the head (but divested of technical terms, the horns ) of a deer. Except with the huntsmen of stag hounds, the keepers of parks, and out keepers of forests and chaces, the infinity of old terms and distinctions are become nearly obsolete; and ANTLERS amongst sportsmen, as well as sporting rhymesters, are now conceived to imply the whole head (alias the horns) of the deer....

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APERIENTS

APERIENTS

—are medicines which mildly soften the contents of the intestines, and gently promote moderate evacuation, without producing the strong and repeated effects of physic, given with an intent to purge....

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APERTURE

APERTURE

;—a term in farriery, applied to the orifice or opening of a tumour or abscess, whether made by Nature, or by perforation with the instrument of the operator: in either case the principal consideration must be, to have it sufficiently large for the transpiration of the offending matter for which the effort was made; if in that respect it is deficient, relief must be obtained from the hand of the VETERINARIAN ....

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APOPLEXY

APOPLEXY

,—in horses, a paralytic affection of the brain, from too great or sudden flux of blood to the part, too powerful exertions of strength in drawing substances over heavy, or some pre-disposing tendency to inflammation....

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APPUI

APPUI

—is a term used in equestrian education; a perfect knowledge of which, Mr. Astley is of opinion, "can only be acquired in the MANEGE , by great practice, under judicious, experienced and able professors."...

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APPETITE

APPETITE

,—if good, in either man or beast, ought to be, and in most cases is, a clear criterion and proof of health. However, instances are not wanting, where a rule so seemingly just is sometimes subject to exceptions. The quantity of good and healthy food taken into the frame, is by no means an infallible proof of strength, or of what work the subject is, or ought to be, equal to: some horses are the greatest slugs in nature, though always feeding ; while others, who undergo thrice their labour, do no

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AQUATIC

AQUATIC

,—appertaining to water. Fish are an aquatic production. Aquatic herbs take root in the soil beneath, and vegetate as well below as upon the surface of the water. An aquatic excursion is a party of pleasure upon the water....

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ARABIC GUM

ARABIC GUM

,—is a most useful article to dissolve with water or gruel in the sickness of horses. Nitre should never be given without half its quantity of Gum Arabic....

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ARSENIC

ARSENIC

,—is a most certain and destructive poison, mentioned here only to demonstrate its utility in clearing premises of rats , which it will infallibly do, if made use of in the following manner. Take (in the season when they are to be obtained) a dozen large apples; let them be pared, and the cores extracted; then chop them exceedingly fine, till they are almost a paste; to which add half an ounce of arsenic, reduced to powder, and two ounces of coarse sugar; mix well, and let this be distributed in

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ARM

ARM

—of a horse, is so called (though it is properly the fore-thigh) from the elbow immediately under the chest, downwards to the junction at the knee: this should be uniformly strong and muscular, being wide at top, and narrowing proportionally to the bottom: if it is not so, but mostly of a size, it is an evident proof of weakness....

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ART VETERINARY

ART VETERINARY

—is the present improved state of FARRIERY , as taught at a newly established institution, called the Veterinary College at Camden Town, in the parish of Saint Pancras; where the pupils attend LECTURES upon anatomy , physiology , and medicine , under a PROFESSOR of the first eminence, as well as the practical part of the business at the forge and in farriery , till, being properly qualified, they pass the necessary examination before a committee of surgeons, when they receive their diploma, and

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ASCARIDES

ASCARIDES

—are a species of worms, to which horses are frequently subject, from two to three inches long: they are not larger in circumference than a common knitting needle, have a flat head, and in some degree not unlike the millepedes, at least in respect to their number of legs. They are in general voided with the dung, where they may be seen twirling and twisting about with wonderful rapidity, not unlike a grig, or small eel, when thrown out of his own element upon the grass. Horses persecuted with th

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ASTHMATIC

ASTHMATIC

.—Horses are considered asthmatic , or thick-winded, who have acquired a difficulty of respiration, and a short husky cough, from blood originally dense and sizey having been permitted to become proportionally viscid , from a want of evacuants and attenuants in time to have prevented the obstructions which lay the foundation of this troublesome defect. The viscidity of the blood constituting obstructions in the finer vessels, produce tubercles in the lungs, which, rendering their action partial

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ASTRINGENTS

ASTRINGENTS

—is rather a medical than either a general or sporting term, and implies any article in food or medicine, possessing the property of restraining a too great flux of excrement after physic, or a too lax state of body, (denominated looseness,) proceeding from a previous fulness, or from intestinal acrimony, where the discharges have been a mere effort of Nature to relieve herself from the load, and not in consequence of any purgative whatever. In such flaccidity of the intestines, proceeding from

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ATTACHMENTS

ATTACHMENTS

—Court of, a ceremony or court peculiar to the laws of a forest, and necessary to be known only by those who reside therein. The officers of this court do no more than receive the attachments of the foresters , and enrol them in the VERDERERS' rolls, that they may be ready for the court of swainmote when held. This court of attachments having no power to determine upon cases of offence or trespass beyond the value of fourpence , all above that sum must appear in the verderers' rolls, and be sent

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ATTAINT

ATTAINT

—has been used, by members of the old school in farriery, for blows, bruises, cuts, and wounds, sustained in any one leg by injuries from the other. As it is, however, nearly obsolete, and may probably never be heard again, farther exposition becomes unnecessary....

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ATTRACTION

ATTRACTION

—is positively, in some respects, the best property (if it can be so termed) a horse can possibly possess, at least so far as it is admitted to exceed every other qualification in its effect upon the mind of the owner during the time he is in possession; as well as no inconsiderable gratification of pecuniary expectation when the horse comes to be sold. The great advantage arising from attraction in a horse is, that, however vexatious his defects in respect to temper and action may be, he will n

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ATTIRE

ATTIRE

—of a deer. See Antlers ....

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AVIARY

AVIARY

—a receptacle for singing birds of different denominations, more adapted to the pleasures of the ladies, than any systematic pursuit or enquiry of the sportsman....

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BABBLER

BABBLER

—is a hound upon whose tongue no firm reliance is to be made, either in drag , upon trail , or the recovery of a fault during the chase ; so strictly true is the well known adage, that "a liar is not to be believed although he speaks the truth."...

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BABRAHAM

BABRAHAM

—was one of the best racers of his time; he was bred by Lord Godolphin ; foaled in 1740; was got by the Goldophin Arabian out of the large Hartley mare, got by Mr. Hartley's blind horse; her dam Flying Wig, by Williams's Woodstock Arabian; grand-dam by the St. Victor Barb, out of a daughter of Whynot, son of the Fenwick Barb. He became a STALLION of much celebrity, having been the sire of Sir Isaac Lowther's Babraham, Mr. Leedes's Young Babraham, Babraham Blank, Jack of Newbury, Traplin, Aimwell

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BACK

BACK

—of a horse, the very part upon which the centrical point of beauty principally depends. If he is long in the back, narrow across the loins, flat in the ribs, and light in the carcase, (however well he may be otherways furnished with good points ,) he will never be considered either a handsome or strong horse. Horses of this description are in general good goers as to speed , but very little to be relied on in hard service, or long journies....

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BACKING

BACKING

—is the term used for the first time of mounting a colt (or taking seat upon the saddle) after he has been previously handled , quieted , stabled , and accustomed to the mouthing-bit, the cavezon, martingal, lunging-rein, saddle, and the whole of the apparatus with which he has been led his different paces in the ring : all this he should be brought to submit to most quietly, as well as to the being saddled , and every part of liable discipline, before any attempt is made to back him; if not, it

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BACK SINEWS

BACK SINEWS

,—so called in a horse, are the tendons extending from the junction of the knee, at the back of the shank-bone to the fetlock joint, where they are inserted. These parts are so much acted upon, and partake so palpably of the labour in which the animal is constantly engaged, that they are eternally liable to injury from over work, rolling stones, deep ground, or projecting prominences in the pavement of large towns. When injuries of this kind are severe, and threaten, by swelling and inflammation

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BACK RAKING

BACK RAKING

—is an operation of which confident grooms, and indolent farriers, are too frequently fond. It is introducing the hand at the sphincter ani, to extract the indurated fæces, or hardened dung, from the rectum, in which the horse must experience considerable pain, that would be better avoided by the more humane and considerate administration of a clyster . By this a repetition of the more slovenly and less efficacious operation would be rendered unnecessary, as well as the original intent more expe

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BADGER

BADGER

.—Though this animal cannot be said to afford sport to the superior classes, he is entitled to notice here, in conformity with the original intent and title of the Work. Former writers have, with a greater attention to the fertility of invention, than any respect to truth, held forth a seemingly plausible description of BADGERS of two distinct and separate kinds, under the different appellation of a dog-badger and hog-badger; the former having feet resembling a dog ; the feet of the latter clove

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BALLS

BALLS

,—medicines so called when prepared in that form, as they now mostly are, for the mitigation and cure of almost every disease to which the horse is incident. There are purging balls of various kinds, prepared of proportional strengths, and compounded of different ingredients, with or without the impregnation of mercury, according to the state , disease , or condition of the subject. Mild and strong diuretic balls, for cracked heels, swelled legs, fluctuating humours, and grease. Pectoral cordial

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BALSAMICS

BALSAMICS

,—in medicine, is a kind of indefinite term, upon which the most eminent writers have hardly agreed: but however they may have differed in respect to derivation, there can be no doubt but the true sense of the word must appertain to such nutritive emollients, and gelatinous restoratives, as heal without, and invigorate within. The term is more generally applied to medicines administered in disorders of the chest and lungs ....

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BARBS

BARBS

—are horses brought from the coast of Barbary, and mostly consigned as presents to His Majesty, or some other branch of the royal family. Those arriving under such distinction, are to be considered the true MOUNTAIN BARB , the pedigree of whose blood has been recorded with as much tenacity and care as the genealogy of our most ancient nobility. Barbs (as they are called) are to be found in the possession of many people of fashion and fortune in England, but they are in general of inferior degree

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BARS

BARS

—are the fleshy ridges at the upper part of a horse's mouth. These ridges are always more prominent in young horses than in old . When they are luxuriant towards the front teeth, and, with a kind of elastic puffiness, project and prevent mastication, they are called Lampas , (which see.) In all cases of emergency where bleeding is necessary, and the apparatus not at hand, particularly in the night , an incision or two across the bars with the fleam, instantly answers the purpose, and prevents fa

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BAT FOWLING

BAT FOWLING

—is a favorite sport with farmer's servants on a winter's evening, and can only be enjoyed with a degree of success proportioned by the darkness of the night. The party should not consist of less than four; two of whom are provided with long flimsey hazel sticks or hurdle rods; the third carries and manages the flap, (or folding net;) and the fourth a candle and lanthorn, suspended to the end of a pole seven or eight feet long. Upon the net being spread, by separating the side rods to their utmo

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BATTLE ROYAL

BATTLE ROYAL

—was formerly (much more than at present) a favorite mode of fighting amongst COCKERS of the lower order , who, upon the old maxim of "the more danger the more honor," became practical advocates for general destruction in the following way. A battle royal may consist of any number of cocks, but is hardly ever known to exceed eight . The owner of each having made good his stake , or previously contributed his share of the prize or purse for which they fight, and all parties being ready, the cocks

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BAY

BAY

—the colour of a horse so called, and is the most esteemed of any other in constituting the beauty of the horse. They have invariably black manes and tails, are many shades lighter than a brown horse, and were originally called bay from their affinity to the leaf of the bay tree. There are, however, some degrees of difference and variations in those so termed: for instance, there is the light or yellow bay, the brown bay, and the mottled bay. Bay horses with black legs have the preference of all

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BAY

BAY

—is a sporting term, and used in the following sense. When a stag has been so long pursued that, finding his speed or strength nearly exhausted, he turns round, (having some protection of building or paling in his rear,) and facing the hounds, resolutely defends himself with his antlers , keeping the hounds at bay , till the sportsmen come up, who immediately assist in drawing off the hounds, and saving the life of the deer. When the deer takes soil , (that is, takes to the water,) he will defen

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BAY BOLTON

BAY BOLTON

—was bred by Mr. Vernon ; foaled in 1777: he was got by Matchem, dam by Regulus, out of an own sister to the Ancaster Starling. He has long been in the possession of his Majesty, and was for many years the favorite stallion at Hampton Court, from whom most of his Majesty's present stud were produced....

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BAY MALTON

BAY MALTON

—was esteemed the first horse of his year in the kingdom, and won more prizes of consequence and value than any horse of his time. He was bred by the then Marquis of Rockingham ; was foaled in 1760; got by Sampson, dam by Cade, and grand-dam by Old Traveller. It is believed he never covered as a STALLION : if so, he produced no horses of note....

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BAY TREE

BAY TREE

—The leaves of which are so useful in fomentations, and the berries in clysters, for horses upon every emergency, particularly remote from towns, that sporting gentlemen in the country should never be without a tree of this description upon their premises....

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BEAGLES

BEAGLES

,—in early stages of the sporting world, was an appellation of much more definite meaning than in the polish of the present times , and was then used to signify a brace or two of the tanned or pied hounds of small dimensions, with which the country squire or opulent farmer picked and chopped the trail of a hare to her form for a course with his greyhounds. As they were, however, so constantly useful in recovering the hare after the first course, and bringing her to view for a second , it became

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BEAK

BEAK

,—the bill of a bird, more expressively understood in the "setting too" of a cock; which, according to the articles and fixed rules of cocking, must be "beak to beak."...

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BEAM

BEAM

,—in the head of a deer, is the basis, or part bearing the antlers, royals and tops....

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BEAT for a Hare

BEAT for a Hare

,—is a term in hunting, much less known, and much less used, formerly, than of late years. When the huntsman was mounted at day break , and the hounds were thrown off at the place of meeting, as soon as the horsemen could see to ride , the hounds took trail, and went to their game in a style much better conceived than described. No assistance was then required to beat for hares , when the hounds were thus early enabled to find for themselves. A chase (or two) was enjoyed at that time, and the ho

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BEDDING

BEDDING

—appertains here only to the bedding of the horse, upon which there are such a variety of opinions, that there cannot be the least expectation of all ever centering in one point. While some are profuse of straw at all seasons, even to a degree of waste and extravagance, others, from a parsimonious principle, do not (at least readily) admit the necessity of any at all . In extremes, perhaps, the line of mediocrity may be the most satisfactory, and least liable to reprehension....

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BETTING

BETTING

—is one great gratification of happiness with the people of this country, who never can be said to be truly happy , unless it is blended with a chance of becoming completely miserable . It is that kind of national furor , that no laws, however penal , no restrictions, however severe , can have sufficient force to stem the torrent of popular propensity; particularly when nurtured and encouraged by the prevalent example, and personal practice, of the first and most exalted characters in the kingdo

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BISHOPING

BISHOPING

—is an operation performed upon the teeth of a horse, and supposed to have derived its modern appellation from an eminent and distinguished dealer of the name of Bishop ; whether from any peculiar neatness in, or reputed celebrity for, a personal performance of the deception, it is most probably not possible (or necessary) to ascertain. The purport of the operation is to furnish horses of ten or twelve years old with a regeneration of teeth , bearing the appearance of five or six , and is thus p

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BITCH

BITCH

—is the feminine of the canine species, in contra-distinction to dog. It is sometimes used in a similar sense with respect to foxes, where the female is termed a bitch fox ; though a vixen is the more sportsman-like appellation. Bitches are sometimes spayed , to prevent their farther propagation: it requires judgment and expertness in the operation, the best time for which is about a week after the heat is gone off....

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BITS

BITS

—are of different kinds, formed of iron, and constitute the mouth-part of bridles of every denomination, whether in carriage harness, or for use on the turf, in the chase, or upon the road. The single large-mouthed bit, first used with colts in breaking, is known by the name of mouthing-bit : the same shaped bit, but of a much smaller size, with a small cheek of about three inches long, is called a piped cheek snaffle . A single bit, having a curb , and a cheek of five or six inches long, with o

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BITES

BITES

—frequently happen to sporting dogs as well as to horses, but much more frequently to the former , by poisonous insects that are, as well as many not known. Means of relief must of course be regulated by immediate appearances: in great inflammation, bleeding , and external emollients, are of good effect: in bites of the viper , its own fat liquified, and to be had at the medical shops as the "oil of vipers," is acknowledged a certain antidote....

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BITTERN

BITTERN

—is a bird of similar formation to the heron , but of much smaller size, and more beautifully variegated in its plumage. They are principally found in sedgey moors, where they breed, particularly within a few miles of the sea-coast, not being very common in the centrical parts of the kingdom. If brought down by the gun with only a broken wing , they display great courage in opposing their destroyer; possessing such determined power, and quick exertion of both talons and beak , they cannot be wit

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BLACK ACT

BLACK ACT

—is so called, because it was enacted in consequence of the most unprecedented depredations committed in Essex by persons in disguise, with their faces blacked and disfigured, and is literally thus. "By this statute it is enacted, that persons, hunting armed and disguised, and killing or stealing deer, or robbing warrens, or stealing fish out of any river, &amp;c. or any person unlawfully hunting in His Majesty's forests; or breaking down the head of any fish-pond; or killing of cattle; or c

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BLACK-LEGS

BLACK-LEGS

—is the expressive appellation long since given by the superior classes of the sporting world (consisting of noblemen and gentlemen of fortune) to the very honorable and very distinguished fraternity who are known to constitute "a family ," and are, perhaps, without exception, the most unprincipled and abandoned set of thieves and harpies that ever disgraced civilized society. They are a body, existing by, and subsisting upon, the most villainous modes of deceptive depredation: their various mod

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BLADDER

BLADDER

—is a part of the horse liable to disease; but seldom known to occur, unless by the indiscretion of the owner. A long retention of urine, by continuing a journey to too great an extent without stopping, may produce strangury ; and that not being soon relieved, inflammation may ensue. Instances are recorded of stones, calcareous substances, and different concretions, having been found in the bladders of horses after death. Discretion is a proper and cheap preventative....

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BLANK

BLANK

—was a horse in high form, beating almost every horse of his time, and his blood was held in the utmost estimation: he was bred by Lord Godolphin ; foaled 1740; got by the Godolphin Arabian, dam by Bartlett's Childers, out of the dam of the Large Hartley Mare. The various performances of Blank will not admit of being brought within the compass of so concise a description; therefore, suffice it to say, that, after his performances upon the turf, he became a stallion of the first celebrity, and wa

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BLEEDING

BLEEDING

—of horses is a simple and easy operation, hitherto performed with an instrument called a fleam , which being steadily supported over the neck vein (about five inches below the superior process of the jaw-bone) is forcibly struck with what is professionally termed a bloodstick , turned out of the wood called lignum vitæ , as being sufficiently heavy to insure weight and certainty to the blow: the blade of the fleam is supported by a shoulder, to prevent the incision's being made beyond the depth

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BLEMISHES

BLEMISHES

—are so called which constitute disfiguration and eyesore, without impediment to sight or action ; it is therefore readily conceived, a horse may be very materially blemished without being unsound. Blemishes are various, and many of them not to be immediately perceived, in a superficial survey of the subject: broken knees are a very material and conspicuous blemish: splents , if large, are unpleasing to the eye of the good judge and nice investigator: warts are easily observed, and as easily cur

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BLINDNESS

BLINDNESS

—in a horse (whether in one or both eyes) may originate in a variety of well-known causes, many of which are occasioned by means of violence, and may at all times be prevented by proper care and humane attention. If a horse, having naturally good eyes, is observed to undergo a sudden change in the external appearance, from enlargement of the lids, or a discharge of hot watery serum, with a visible heat and pain of the part, (the horse constantly shaking his head and ears,) it may reasonably be a

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BLISTERING

BLISTERING

—is an operation performed upon a horse by unguents prepared of different degrees of strength, according to the circumstances of the case. They are in general use for blood and bone spavins, curbs and strains of the back sinews: where they do not complete the purpose for which they were intended, they are repeated at a proper period; or firing the part is adopted, and the horse is turned out. Blistering is in general too soon resorted to as a remedy, and in many cases before the inflammation ari

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BLOOD

BLOOD

—is the well known fluid issuing from wounds, or separated vessels, in an accidental destruction of parts: it is not only the very basis , but the support , of life itself ; and drawn from the frame of any animal beyond a certain proportion (professionally ascertained,) causes instant death. In the regular routine of the animal œconomy, blood is generated by the frequent supplies of nutritive aliment, and retaining within itself sufficient strength and power for its own peculiar purposes, throws

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BLOOD HOUNDS

BLOOD HOUNDS

.—Those so called, have always had a kind of fabulous property ascribed to them, of pursuing, and infallibly taking or seizing, robbers , murderers , or depredators , whenever they could be laid upon the footsteps (or scent) of the particular object they were intended to pursue; and of their possessing this property there can be no doubt, when the experience of ages, transmitted to us by our predecessors, (as well as our own observations,) have afforded the most indisputable proofs, that hounds

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BLOOD SPAVIN

BLOOD SPAVIN

—is a preternatural and puffy enlargement on the inside of a horse's hock, proceeding from a distension of the vein crossing the internal junction of the inferior part of the thigh bone with the superior part of the shank; and whenever such injury is observed, it may rather be supposed to have originated in a blow , a kick , or more probably from a ligamentary twist or distortion, (by a short and sudden turn in the small stall of an ill constructed stable,) than by any continued exertion of spee

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BLOWS

BLOWS

—inconsiderately given, in passion , to harmless, inoffending animals, are nineteen times out of twenty productive of repentance, when probably repentance comes too late. A horse sometimes, and most commonly from the inattention of the rider, steps almost unavoidably upon a flint or rolling-stone; and in the very exertion of recovering himself from nearly falling , he at that critical moment receives a severe and unexpected blow behind the ear from the stick of his philosophic, patient, humane r

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BONE SPAVIN

BONE SPAVIN

—is an ossified enlargement on the outside of, and rather below, the centre of the hock, originating in a cartilaginous protrusion from the seat of articulation becoming progressively callous, and lastly a substance equally firm with the bone itself. They do not invariably constitute lameness upon their first appearance, but it soon follows a course of hard or regular work. Blistering first , and firing afterwards, was the practice of farriers of the old school, which it is not known has undergo

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BOLTING

BOLTING

.—When a fox, laying at earth, has been dug to, and, upon the approach of the spade, the terrier, or the person attempting to take him, makes a sudden spring, and goes off , he is then said to have bolted ; when, of course, the chase is continued with the hounds. The term is also applicable to a rabbit from its burrow, or the badger from his earth....

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BORING

BORING

;—one of the former humane operations in farriery for what is now called a lameness, then termed a wrench in the shoulder: it consisted in making a small orifice, or superficial incision, through the integument near the part affected: into this is insinuated a small tube or pipe; by the operator's breath through which the part is inflated, directly in the way a butcher swells his veal: a flat piece of iron, of small dimensions, is then introduced between the ribs and the shoulder in different di

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BOTTS

BOTTS

—are differently described by different writers; a certain proof many of them wrote more from theory , copy , and hearsay , than from attentive practice, or personal observation. Some have observed, they were of one shape; a second, of another; a third has said their seat was invariably upon one particular part ; but the present Author has told you, in his former Works, and now repeats the fact, that they are equally inhabitants of the stomach before , as they are of the rectum behind; and are a

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BOWEL-GALLED

BOWEL-GALLED

—is a laceration occasioned by the tightness and heat, or friction, of the girths, just behind the elbows of the fore legs, and is soon hardened and obliterated by two or three applications of a soft sponge, impregnated with common vinegar....

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BOWLS

BOWLS

—is a game played upon a fine smooth grassy surface, either square, circular, or oblong, used solely for the purpose, and called a BOWLING-GREEN . The party may consist of two, four, six, or eight, and is generally chosen alternately, after tossing up a coin to decide who shall have the first choice. The sides being selected, each player has two bowls, which bowls have numerical figures, thereby ascertaining to whom they belong. The leader sends off a smaller bowl, called the jack , to what dist

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BRAN

BRAN

—would not have been entitled to notice in a work of this kind, had it not been in a certain degree of conditional use with horses of different descriptions, in sickness as well as in health. Bran is an article almost generally known to be the coarser part of the skin or covering of the grain called wheat , from the body of which flour is manufactured, and bread made. With some people (particularly in the country parts of the kingdom, who are desirous of keeping their horses at little expence) b

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BREAKING the Herd

BREAKING the Herd

—is the ceremony of singling out a deer (either stag or hind) from the herd for the chase, which is thus performed with His Majesty's establishment in Windsor Forest . A survey being made of the herd, and the particular deer fixed on for separation , the huntsmen, assisted by one of the yeomen prickers, ride at a hunting rate, gallop directly into the herd, continuing so to do (as the herd divide) at the particular part to which the deer intended to be singled out continues to adhere. This cerem

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BREAKING the Deer

BREAKING the Deer

—is the act of cutting open the deer after the chase, that the purchased perquisites of blood and garbage may go to the hounds. It is also the term for cutting up and dressing the fallow deer called BUCKS and DOES ....

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BREAST-PLATE

BREAST-PLATE

,—an article in horse furniture of great utility with light carcased horses, who very frequently, in both hunting and racing, run through their girths . It is made of either spring web or soft leather, as most agreeable to taste or fancy, and is fastened by buckles to small loops screwed to the tree of the saddle, just under the upper saddle-flap behind the withers of the horse; from whence the two parts divide transversely, and one passes down each shoulder to the point of the breast, where the

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BREEDING

BREEDING

—is the production of COLTS in a stud principally or solely kept for that purpose. The methods of bringing up colts vary according to the purpose for which they are intended, whether for the turf, field, draft, or road. The breeders of opulent magnitude in the northern counties, most celebrated for the breed of horses in Britain, are too well skilled in the practical part to require the least aid from theoretic instruction. They are well convinced, by the unerring principle of well-founded exper

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BRIDLE

BRIDLE

,—the well-known article by which we are enabled to ride, guide and regulate the speed and action of the most noble, spirited, powerful and valuable animal in the creation. They are of different kinds, as most applicable to the mouth and temper of the horse; consisting of snaffles , Pelhams , Hard-and-sharps , Weymouths , &amp;c. There are also others of different constructions; but as they appertain principally to the MILITARY MANEGE and the RIDING-HOUSE , a minute description would afford

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BRIDLE-HAND

BRIDLE-HAND

.—The left is so called, in contra-distinction to the right, which, in racing, is termed the whip ; and in military evolutions with cavalry, called the sword hand . Those who are deemed good sportsmen, or complete horsemen, manage the reins with equal dexterity, and one hand is generally as much in use as the other....

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BROKEN WIND

BROKEN WIND

—remains in its long-standing state of professional ambiguity; for, notwithstanding frequent dissections must have afforded every assistance to earnest investigation, yet no authenticated, well-established opinion has transpired, sufficiently attracting or corroborative to fix a criterion upon which scientific or public faith seem inclined to rely. Since the appearance of "The Gentleman's Stable Directory," (about fourteen years since,) a great variety of veterinary writers , and veterinary prac

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BROOD

BROOD

,—a word almost indiscriminately used for the young of any fowl . There is, however, a much nicer and more sporting-like distinction. To speak properly, we say, a brood of ducks, a clutch of chickens, a setting of gulls, a covey of partridges, and a nide of pheasants....

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BROOD MARE

BROOD MARE

—is a mare kept solely for the purpose of breeding colts, and put to no other use whatever....

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BROW ANTLER

BROW ANTLER

—the first branch from the beam in the head of a stag....

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BUCK

BUCK

—the male of the fallow deer. In his first year he is called a fawn ; he is then a pricket ; and lastly A BUCK . In colour they are mottled, sandy, or a deep dingy brown, approaching to black. The males have horns; the does none. Buck venison is very superior to doe; and when well fatted, sells from three to four guineas each haunch . The season for it in the highest perfection is from June to September. Buck hunting —has been of late years but little practised, very few of them affording chase

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BULL DOG

BULL DOG

.—A bull dog, though inoffensive and harmless when properly domesticated, forms, to the eye of timidity, a most terrific appearance: the doubtful and designing leer of the eye, the tiger-like shortness of the head, the under-hung jaw, the wideness of the forehead, the width of the skull, the distension of the nostrils, and the almost constant sight of the teeth, hold forth a very emphatic specimen of the power they possess, when that power is angrily brought into action. The breed is by no means

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BULL-BAITING

BULL-BAITING

—was formerly not merely a pleasing pursuit, but an extatic diversion , of the most unfeeling, and least humane, part of the very lowest, and most abandoned, orders of the people. To such a pitch of prevalence had it arrived in some particular parts, and was so much considered to give additional callosity to the minds of its cruel and inconsiderate abettors, that the more polished and humane classes of society made strong and repeated efforts for its total abolition , by endeavouring to obtain a

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BULL RUNNING

BULL RUNNING

—is a pursuit of the bull in a way no less cruel and disgraceful to the humanity of this enlightened country than what has been before described. By custom in the manor of Tutbury, in Staffordshire, as mentioned at almost the head of the last article, a bull was given by the prior to the minstrels. After undergoing the torture of having his horns cut off, his ears and tail cropped and docked to the very stump, his nostrils filled with pepper, and his body besmeared with soap, he was turned out i

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BURROWS

BURROWS

,—are the holes or cavities in the earth of a rabbit warren, where they bring and breed up their young, as well as where they instantly retire to for safety, upon the approach of danger....

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CADE

CADE

—was a horse of the best blood , speed , and bottom , ever bred in the kingdom. He was foaled in 1734; got by the Godolphin Arabian ; dam (Roxana) by the Bald Galloway. He beat most horses of his time, and was afterwards, as a STALLION , the sire of Changeling , Matchem , Young Cade , Mercury , Merryman , Cadormus , Bold , Bywell Tom , Victim , Turpin , and a long list of et ceteras ; through the channels of whose different progenies his blood is to be found in almost every stud of celebrity fro

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CADENCE

CADENCE

,—divested of its mere technical idea in the manege, is, in horsemanship, what time is in music , uniformity in manners, or consistency in conduct: a horse complete in his cadence , is to be considered perfect in his action....

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CALKING, or Corking

CALKING, or Corking

,—is the projecting part erroneously formed at the heels of horse-shoes in general, particularly in frosty weather; at which time their utility may be admitted, and, in fact, cannot be done without , where horses are in frequent use. These calkings, however, cannot be justified upon any scientific principle whatever, without chance of accident to the rider, and of lameness to the horse; for upon level ground the horse cannot move but in a distorted motion; and if the prominence in the shoe comes

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CALOMEL

CALOMEL

—is a medical article, well known by this name as the mildest preparation of mercury: it is in general use in private practice, and a certain specific for the obliteration of worms in HORSES , when added in proper proportions to the ingredients for purging-balls....

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CAMPHIRE

CAMPHIRE

—is a vegetable concrete, unctuous to the touch, with a fragrant smell, somewhat like that of rosemary, and a bitter pungent taste, accompanied with a sense of coolness on the tongue. It is volatile, like essential oils, but without their acrimony: it burns in water; it receives no empyreumatic impressions; nor does it suffer any resolution from any degree of fire, to which it can be exposed in close vessels, though readily combustible in the open air. Camphire is known to be good, if, when it i

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CAMPHORATED SPIRITS

CAMPHORATED SPIRITS

—is a prescription standing in the Dispensatory of the London College of Physicians, and is thus prepared. "Take of camphor two ounces; rectified spirit of wine, one quart; shake frequently till the camphor is dissolved." It is a very useful embrocation in slight strains, as well as to prevent the breaking of chilblains in the winter season....

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CAMOMILE.

CAMOMILE.

—The flowers are so useful in fomentations, that no good sportsman in the country should ever be without them in the house....

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CANKER

CANKER

,—a diseased state of the foot of a horse, originating in a neglected thrush, which having acquired a corrosive property by its retention, continues to rot and destroy the surrounding parts, till, by a judicious separation of the fungus from the sound parts, fresh granulations may be promoted, and the cure confirmed....

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CANKER

CANKER

—in the ear of a dog, is mostly occasioned by injury from bushes in beating or hunting covert, and might be easily cured at first with a little Friar's balsam, or tincture of myrrh: this being omitted, a rigid eschar forms upon the surface, when which is separated by accident (as it repeatedly is) it leaves the wound larger than before. A very slight touch with the butter of antimony , is the surest and best mode of destroying the foundation of inveteracy, and healing the wound....

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CANKER

CANKER

—in the mouth of a horse, invariably proceeds from an injury sustained from severe and improper jerks of the bridle by the passion and petulance of the rider: in the seat of the wound or laceration, is formed a sort of insensible slough, which either a little burnt alum, or borax powdered fine, and sprinkled upon the surface, will soon separate, and bring away: the part will afterwards promote its own cure....

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CANTHARIDES

CANTHARIDES

.—Spanish flies, the principal ingredient in every composition prepared for the purpose of blistering; some of which are in the form of ointments; others, less powerful, are applied as liquids, and called liquid blisters....

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CAPARISON

CAPARISON

—is mostly used as a military term, appertaining to cavalry regiments, and applicable to the apparatus of every individual; the saddle, bridle, housings, holsters, and trappings, of every distinction....

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CALF

CALF

—is the male produce of the stag and hind : they are the largest of the species in England, and known in the aggregate by the general appellation of RED DEER ; these are mostly the natives of forests and chaces, (as Windsor and the New Forests, Sherwood, Enfield Chace, &amp;c.) in contra-distinction to fallow deer , bred in parks, and called BUCK and DOE ; their produce a fawn ....

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CALLS

CALLS

—are instruments for imitating the call of partridges and quails; some of which are so admirably executed, that, with those who are adepts in the execution of the plan, and the management of the nets, it becomes a pleasing, if not a profitable, amusement....

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CAPON

CAPON

;—a young cock divested of his testes (by incision and separation) so soon as he is large enough for the operation: the best time is at about three or four months old. The only useful intent is to acquire additional size and growth, as capons are frequently killed of seven, eight, and even nine pounds weight....

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CARP

CARP

—are esteemed one of the richest fresh water fish we have in the kingdom: they are the principal stock of park canals and manor ponds, to the owners of which they afford considerable profit; particularly near populous cities, where they can be disposed of to advantage at the season when such ponds are drawn, and new stocked with stores. Much success depends upon the nature of the soil where the pond is situate: if in a soft marley kind of earth, or warm clay, impregnated with hazel earth, and a

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CARMINATIVES

CARMINATIVES

—are all such warm aromatic seeds or medicines as expel wind, amongst which may be justly ranked most of the spices; likewise aniseed, carraways, cardamoms, ginger, grains of paradise, &amp;c. They are excellent aids in the flatulent disorders of horses; but should not, if possible, have been too long in the shop , as some of them lose their property by long keeping....

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CARROTS—

CARROTS—

are, after the fair experiments of late years, become an article of very considerable consumption, as a collateral kind of food for the support of horses employed in agriculture. The most candid attention, and minute observation, at length admits, that horses having a proportion of carrots, washed, cleaned, dried, and cut either alone, or mixed with the barn chaff, do their work as well, look as firm in their flesh, and fine in their coat, as those who are kept upon corn, chaff, and hay. Althoug

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CART HORSES

CART HORSES

.—The horses so called are principally the horses employed in drawing farmers' waggons, carts, and the plough; as well as the infinity employed with waggons upon the turnpike road, in the conveyance of articles in trade from one part of the kingdom to another. The incredible number supported in the metropolis, and its environs, by the merchants, breweries, coal merchants, carmen, and the proprietors of wharfs, exceed the utmost conception of those not accustomed to such prospects, or to such cal

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CASTING NET

CASTING NET

.—In a half extended form, (when in part suspended from the ground, and resting on the leads fixed to its bottom,) it resembles a bell in its shape; but when cast in the water , or spread on the ground, it constitutes a complete circle. They are made of different dimensions; and so constructed, as to be completely grasped by the right and left hand, having the centre of the net spread over the left shoulder; when, by a sudden exertion, (in which there must be great expertness,) the net is so cas

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CASTING the Hair

CASTING the Hair

;—an almost obsolete (or provincial) term for a horse's shedding his coat....

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CASTRATION

CASTRATION

—is the loss of the testicles by extirpation, which requires a very nice eye, and steady hand, in the operator: for, although it has, in general, been performed by Vulcanians of the inferior order, who are strangers to the delicate structure and formation of the parts, yet it is now to be anxiously hoped, we are fast emerging from former ignorance, and that we shall become as expert and dexterous in this art (if not so famous) as the Italians . There are two modes of operation; one of those not

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CATARACT

CATARACT

,—the technical term for a defect of the eye, to which no particular cause of origin has been yet decisively ascertained. The faculty define it, "an opacity of the crystalline humour of the eye, which prevents the rays of light passing to the retina, and of course preventing vision." Doctor Hunter says, "it is when an inflammation in the coat of the crystalline humour hath rendered it opaque." But Mr. St. Yves seems to be of opinion that the crystalline humour swells. He also divides the catarac

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CATHARTICS

CATHARTICS

—are synonimous with purgatives, and include all medicines of that description....

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CAUSTICS

CAUSTICS

—are medicines which externally constitute a destruction of the texture (or superficies) of the parts to which they are applied. Caustics are of different kinds, and of various powers, according to the reduction, or extirpation, for which they are intended. The actual cautery, or red-hot iron, is used in firing, as well as for the farther prevention of sand-cracks already broke out. The antimonial caustic, or butter of antimony, (in judicious hands), is a complete and perfect cure for poll evil

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CAVESON

CAVESON

—is an article used in the breaking of colts, as well as in the manege: it consists of a semi-circle, of iron or blocked tin, passing round the nose, about five inches above the nostrils, having three hinges or joints, concave on the inside, and covered with leather, list, or woollen cloth. This has three swivel rings, one in the center of the noseband, and one on each side; to all or either of which the reins are affixed, that he may be accustomed, in the ring, to pace either to the right or le

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CHACE

CHACE

.—A chace is, in general acceptation, considered a receptacle for game, interspersed with fern , thickets , underwood , and probably with small coverts , for its preservation. It is understood to be superior to a park, but inferior to a forest, having none of those laws for its protection. It is not unfrequently the property of a subject, and is then protected by its own manorial rights and privileges. Chaces there are, also, the property of the Crown ; and those are generally regulated by the F

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CHASE

CHASE

.—The chase, as well as other pleasures of equal attraction, has had its most inveterate opponents, as well as its equally determined devotees. Various and vehement have been the declamations against it; equally numerous, and equally energetic, have been the expostulations in its defence. That it was practised, and enthusiastically enjoyed, by the ancients, as perseveringly pursued by the moderns, and will be continued to the end of time, (in opposition to every species of puritanical rigidity,)

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CHALLENGE

CHALLENGE

—is a term used for the first tongue of a hound after throwing into covert, to draw either for fox , or an out-lying deer . Upon the challenge of a single hound, if he is staunch, and to be relied on, a general silence ensues; ears are all open for a repetition, and every eye for a view ; the huntsman (who well knows how far to depend upon the truth of the declaration) instantly encourages the pack to the promised point, by " hark to Gamboy !" " hark to Galloper !" or whatever may be the name of

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CHAFFING

CHAFFING

,—so called, is a loss of hair, and laceration of the skin, by the pad of the saddle having got too hard in the stuffing from constant use, and for want of timely circumspection. It is also frequently occasioned by the extreme heat and friction, in continuing to travel very long stages in the hotter months, without more frequent relief or rest to the horse. This is a very common fault, or act of indiscretion, with the mechanical part of the community; who possessing rather too much of the spirit

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CHARGE

CHARGE

—was a favourite part of former practice in farriery, and consisted of compositions in the form of an adhesive mass, which being plastered upon the part afflicted, was there left to act as a corroborant , an emollient , a discutient , a repellent , or, in fact, to effect any purpose intended, or that the case might require. These preparations were applied in different states, and were denominated hot or cold charges , according to the mode in which they were laid on. As, however, no great proofs

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CHEST

CHEST

—is the part of a horse comprehended in the side view, from his wither to the bottom of his ribs near the elbow, at the upper part of the fore arm; and is perfectly understood, when we say, "that horse is well let down, and deep in the chest." If, in addition to this, he is "round in the barrel," he may then be said to have a good carcase . To judge well of the chest, it is necessary to come before, and take a front view, if which is broad, and the horse stands wide and firm, it is a proof of st

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CHEST-FOUNDERING

CHEST-FOUNDERING

,—a debility in the shoulders, chest and fore-quarters of a horse, seemingly less understood, and certainly less explained hitherto, than any one disorder or defect to which the horse is incident. Those who have written upon this subject, evidently echo each other ; as they literally and individually say, "it proceeds from hard labour, whereby the horse becomes surfeited; so that, upon the whole, it is no more than a severe cold, and is to be managed accordingly." These are, in fact, the very wo

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CHILDERS

CHILDERS

—was distinguished from four others in succession of the same name, by the appellation of the Devonshire , or Flying Childers , having been the fleetest horse ever bred or trained in this kingdom, and said to have ran a mile in a minute . The fact, however, was not so; he went the fourth of a mile at the rate of a mile in a minute, and beat every horse of his time with ease. He was bred by Mr. Childers ; was foaled in 1715; and got by Darley's Arabian , dam (Betty Leedes) by Careless . He covere

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CHOLIC

CHOLIC

.—The disorder so called in horses, is properly divided into two kinds, and should be carefully attended to in the attack, before medicines are administered in one , which might have been more applicable in the other . One species of cholic (which is the most common) originates in a retention of confined air, from having been supplied with too much flatulent provender, or too much water , at an improper time. This disorder, in general, soon submits to warm, cordial, anodyne medicines, accompanie

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CLICKET

CLICKET

—is the sporting term for the act of COPULATION with both HARES and FOXES . During the first warm weeks in February , when the males and females seek each other, they are then said to be CLICKETTING ; or that at this particular season they go to CLICKET . After conception , they are said to be knit ; when the DOE HARE or VIXEN FOX will make the most powerful and persevering efforts before the hounds to save their lives. Jack hares and DOG FOXES at this season generally fly their country , and le

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CLYSTERS

CLYSTERS

—are, in a variety of cases, and upon many emergencies, so truly and so expeditiously useful, (without the least danger of being injurious,) that their salutary effects cannot be too well known, or too generally understood. They are differently prepared, from a decoction of the aromatic garden herbs, as marshmallows , camomile flowers , and wormwood , gruel , a handful of salt , and half a pint of oil ; or, indeed, from any of the prescriptions with which books upon physic and farriery are gener

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COAT

COAT

.—The coat of a horse (which the hair is called) is not only an object of sporting exultation when the horse is in fine condition, but, to the judicious and penetrating eye, is in a great degree indicative of the state of health. Nothing will so soon demonstrate the ability , the care and attention of the GROOM , as the coat of his horse. If the coat is observed to become suddenly rough, standing different ways, with a dusty hue underneath, and the hair to look harsh and bristly upon the surface

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COCKING

COCKING

—was formerly a sport so exceedingly prevalent (from the great and perpetual variety it afforded in betting ) that matches were constantly fighting between different counties, as well as opulent individuals, and at most of the horse-races in every part of the kingdom, for very considerable sums of money. This practice, however, like every other species of sporting , in the course of time, opened so great a field for villainy amongst the subordinates, who become unavoidably instrumental, (as feed

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COCKNEY

COCKNEY

—is the distinguished appellation by which those gentlemen are honoured, who, being natives of the Metropolis, are supposed never to have very far exceeded the vibrative limits of St. Paul's clock , or Bow bell . The term, however, well known as it is, would not have been entitled to a place in this collection, had it not been thought necessary to communicate to the sporting world, a derivation so very little known. A citizen of the above description making an excursion with his son to the neigh

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COCK-FEEDER

COCK-FEEDER

—signifies a person whose occupation it is to collect , handle and feed a pen of cocks, to fight such main or match as may be made or agreed on, by those who deposit the battle money, and are called the MASTERS of the MATCH . These find or procure the cocks, of which the feeder takes charge; and to his judgment is submitted the entire management of selecting , rejecting , feeding , physicing , sweating , sparring , weighing , cutting out , (alias trimming,) and bringing his bag and cock to the p

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COCK-MATCH

COCK-MATCH

;—an agreement and article entered into by opposite parties, to shew any number of cocks (as "twenty-one, thirty-one, or forty-one) on each side in the main and ten in the byes, to fight for ten guineas a battle, and fifty the odd." The cocks so agreed to be matched, are under the management of their different feeders till the day specified in the article for their being shewn and weighed ; which day is, upon most occasions, the day but one preceding the day on which the main begins to be fought

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COCKPIT

COCKPIT

,—a place appropriated entirely to the purpose of COCK-FIGHTING , for which it is erected; it is usually of an oblong or circular form, surrounded with seats, to which the spectators pay for admission; and in great mains, or subscription matches, the FEEDERS generally agree with the masters of the match to receive the whole of this door money , (equally divided between them,) as their compensation for the fortnight or three weeks they are engaged in feeding the cocks....

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COCKPIT ROYAL

COCKPIT ROYAL

.—The cockpit royal is considered sanction sufficient for the diversion of COCK-FIGHTING in every part of the kingdom. It is situate on the south side of St. James's Park, from which it has its entrance, and was erected in the reign of King Charles the Second, who, having been himself fond of the sport, is said to have frequently honoured it with his presence, when matches were made and fought amongst his nobles. It is the only place where long mains , and great SUBSCRIPTION MATCHES , are fought

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COCK'S WALK

COCK'S WALK

—is the place to which a game chick is removed, from the place where he was bred, (and where he walked under his sire ,) to the spot where he is to remain till taken up to fight; this is called his walk , of which he is the master, not walking under any other cock. They are commonly sent out to walk at six or seven months old, previous to which they have their combs and gills taken off, and are marked in the eyes , norrils , and feet . At this age they are called chickens ; when turned of a year

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COFFIN-BONE

COFFIN-BONE

.—This bone is situate at the lower extremity of the foot, deposited in the membranous mass with which the box (or coffin ) of the hoof is lined, and is in nearly the shape of the hoof itself: in the centre of the coffin-bone is a concavity, into which is inserted the inferior part of the coronary bone , supported by the nut bone behind: upon the superior part of the coronary bone (that is just above the line said to be " between hair and hoof ") is lodged the lower part of the fetlock bone, its

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COFFIN-JOINT

COFFIN-JOINT

,—the joint situate below the fetlock, and just above the union of hair and hoof; this is the part universally known by the term coffin-joint ; but, in fact, it is not in reality so; for this being formed by the upper part of the coronet with the lower part of the fetlock-bone, leaves the whole coronary bone between the spot described and the coffin-bone. The coffin-joint is buried in the body of the hoof, and is formed by the convex junction of the coronary bone with the concave part of the cof

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COLD

COLD

.—A COLD is evidently occasioned by some sudden transition from heat to cold, a long exposure to chilling rains, or a confined current of external air, through some partial or particular channel: it may be defined a species of disease derived from some one peculiar cause, to which there may be many probable points of termination, according to the constitution, or pre-disposition of the subject at the time of attack. Cold is much more likely to be acquired in a horse by neglect or indiscretion, t

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COLOUR

COLOUR

.—Strange notions have formerly prevailed, and much hypothetical writing and reasoning have been equally produced, to collect sufficient criterions to decide upon, for a proof that the strength and constitutional stamen of the horse depended as much or more upon his colour than his formation. Sound judgment, and rational reflection, would, however, induce a well-founded reason to believe, there is more of fancy or fallacy in such suggestion; and that the old maxim still stands upon firm ground,

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COLLEGE VETERINARY

COLLEGE VETERINARY

,—an equestrian establishment for the improvement of farriery: it is situate about a mile north-east of Tottenham-Court Road, at Camden Town, in the parish of St. Pancras, and will be explained more at large under the head, Veterinary College ....

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COLT

COLT

,—in the general sense, and immediate acceptation of the term, implies a produce from Horse and Mare , without adverting for the moment to either the masculine or the feminine gender; but in a more contracted point of view, (as well as in just and sporting-like phraseology,) it is meant to convey an unequivocal idea, that the produce being A COLT , is really so, that is a horse colt ,) in contra-distinction to the opposite gender, invariably called a filly . The bone and growth of a colt depends

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CONDITION

CONDITION

—is a word in frequent use with the sporting world, to express the state of a horse in respect to his health and external appearance. If low in flesh, rough in his coat, hollow above the eye, and depressed in his spirits, he is then said to be "very much out of condition ." But, on the contrary, if full of good sound flesh, his skin loose and pliable, with his coat soft and sleek, he is then said to be in "perfect condition to start," if for the TURF ; fine condition to take the field , if a HUN

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CONSTIPATION

CONSTIPATION

—implies that state of the bowels, when, for want of the necessary secretion of mucus, their excrementitious contents acquire a degree of solidity bordering upon induration; the dung becomes too hard and adhesive, fœtid in effluvia, and dark or nearly black in appearance. A horse in such state should not be long neglected; inflammatory cholic and consequent danger may ensue; or an indurated mass may be formed in the intestinal canal, which no medicine may have the power to move in time to preven

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CONSUMPTION

CONSUMPTION

.—A consumption is a disorder to which horses are very much subject, particularly the carriage horses of the great and opulent: these fall victims to the unmerciful ambition of nocturnal grandeur, in the four, five and six hours street-waiting in the most dreary nights of the most dreary winter. Consumptions originate in colds , which being ill managed or neglected, constitute an increasing viscidity of the blood; this preternatural consistence renders it more languid in its circulation; and it

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CONVULSIONS

CONVULSIONS

—are a spasmodic affection of the muscular parts of the body, occasioned by extreme pain acting upon the irritability of the nervous system; and generally proceed from cholic, inflammation of the kidnies, strangury, worms preying upon the internal coat of the stomach, a fullness of the vessels, and too great a flux of blood to the brain; as well as a variety of causes, many of which are, perhaps, very far beyond the utmost extent of human investigation. Whenever they come on, the scene becomes t

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COMPRESSION

COMPRESSION

—is a term meant to convey the idea of an injury sustained in the foot of a horse from a contraction of the hoof, more particularly at the heel, by indiscreet management in the mode of shoeing : first, in forming the shoes too narrow, and giving them an improper internal curve at each heel; the injudiciously cutting away the bars of the foot, (formed by nature for its proper expansion;) the rasping away each side of the heel, to make the foot fit the shoe , already put on too small; all which is

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COOLERS

COOLERS

—are such medicines as, by their attenuating property, tend to divest the blood of its viscidity, and to counteract threatened inflammation. They are always useful in plethoric appearances: when a horse is evidently overloaded, and above himself in flesh, when the legs are full, round, and all the vessels are palpably distended, cooling medicines, and gentle exercise, are the direct means of obtaining relief. Bleeding should take the lead, followed by a course of diuretics, mild or strong , acco

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CORNS

CORNS

,—as they are called, would be much more properly denominated bruises , and are of infinite trouble to those who implicitly submit to the Quixotic schemes and manual dexterity of the SMITH ; who, with a secundum artem expedition, instantly renders the remedy worse than the disease. As his principal province is the art of cutting , he has no sooner the drawing-knife in his hand, than he is at " the bottom :" his great object is the destruction of parts; and he piques himself upon doing more misch

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CORDIALS

CORDIALS

,—medically considered, are the very reverse, in their property, of what has been said under the subject of " coolers :" they are warm aromatic articles, which stimulate to action the internal coat of the stomach, enliven the circulation, invigorate the frame, expel wind, strengthen the digestive powers; and are, perhaps, without exception, the best and most useful discovery yet made for the prevention and cure of colds in horses, as well as of some other disorders arising from an impoverished s

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CORIANDER

CORIANDER

,—the name of A HORSE who acquired much celebrity by his performances upon the TURF for six years in succession. He was bred by Mr Dawson , and was got by Pot8oo's out of Lavender , who was got by Herod ; her dam by Snap , out of Sweet William's dam by Cade . He was foaled in 1786. In 1789, when three years old, he beat Jericho , from the ditch-in, for 200 guineas, and Sir W. Aston's Marcia , two year old course, 100 guineas. First Spring meeting, 1790, he beat Buzzard , seven stone each, 100 gu

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CORNER TEETH

CORNER TEETH

—are the four teeth at the extremities of each row in both the upper and the lower jaw, situate between the middle teeth and the tushes: the corner teeth in the lower jaw, are those which the horse sheds when four years old off, and rising five: these not spontaneously exfoliating in time to accommodate the pecuniary propensity of the dealer , he possesses the means and the practice of selling a four year old colt for a FIVE year old horse; and this is so constant, that there is with that class

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CORONET

CORONET

—is the part surrounding the foot of the horse just above the junction of hair and hoof: the bone from which the name is derived, bears great affinity in form to a ducal coronet, and is situate between the lower part of the fetlock-bone and the coffin, into which it is inserted, jointly supported by the nut-bone behind. Ligamentary twists, or distortions, sustained at the superior junction of the coronary bone, frequently occasion a prominence upon the coronet , which becoming first callous, and

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COVEY of Partridges

COVEY of Partridges

—consists of the cock, hen, and their produce of that year before they are broken, and so continue to be termed till killed down too thin to bear the appellation: they are then distinguished by the small numbers they are found in; as, a leash, (three;) two brace, (four;) &amp;c....

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COURSE of Medicine

COURSE of Medicine

,—so called where the case is chronic, requiring a rectification in the animal œconomy, or an alteration in the property of the blood. Chronic cases are disorders of some continuance, (producing symptoms of disquietude more than of danger,) and are thus called to distinguish them from those which, proceeding rapidly, terminate sooner, and with more alarm. Cholic , STRANGURY , FEVER , &amp;c. in horses, are acute diseases: on the contrary, grease , surfeit , and some others, may with propriet

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COURSING

COURSING

—is a species of sport that a celebrated writer has traced to great antiquity; "it having been treated on by Arrian , who flourished A. D. 150." The same author, the Rev. Mr. Daniel , in his elegant and truly entertaining publication upon " Rural Sports ," says, "In our country, during the reign of King John , greyhounds were frequently received by him as payment in lieu of money, for the renewal of grants , fines , and forfeitures , belonging to the Crown. The following extracts prove this Mona

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COSTIVENESS

COSTIVENESS

—will be sound satisfactorily explained under the head Constipation ; to prevent which, regular exercise, great friction, flank rubbing, and frequent changes of food, will greatly contribute....

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CRACKS

CRACKS

—in the heels of horses, during the winter season, are found only in stables where the master seldom or ever condescends to appear. These trifles are too frequently attributed to a defect in the constitution of the horse , when, with more propriety, they might be fixed upon a want of constitutional punctuality in the groom . Horses left with wet legs and heels after chase or journey, particularly in sharp easterly winds, or in frost and snow, constitute the evil to a certainty. So severe a rigid

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CRAMP

CRAMP

—is a most extraordinary spasmodic muscular contraction of some particular limb, where the stiffness and rigidity of the part exceeds belief. To those who have never been accustomed to such cases, they are serious and alarming; for the strength of two men is inadequate to the task of rendering the affected limb pliable and active. The cause is sometimes not to be ascertained; but it has frequently arisen from a horse, in a high state of perspiration, having been placed in a current of cold air,

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CREST-FALLEN

CREST-FALLEN

.—A horse is said to be crest-fallen, when the part running from the withers to the ears, and upon which the mane grows, is impoverished, and wasted, from the natural prominence of its beautiful curve, to a state of reverse hollowness or indentation. This is generally accompanied by a total emaciation, brought on by very bad support , or neglect under different degrees of disease. The firmness and corresponding curve of the crest is almost invariably a tolerable criterion of the health and condi

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CRIB-BITING

CRIB-BITING

—is a habit acquired by some horses, of incessantly biting the manger, and gulping the wind; which appears, from observation, to be more prejudicial to character, than to bodily exertion. It is said, "young horses are most subject to it; and that it is often occasioned by uneasiness in breeding of teeth, and from being ill fed when they are hungry. The bad consequences are wearing away their teeth, spilling their corn, and sucking the air in such quantities, as will often give them the cholic or

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CROPPING

CROPPING

—is the operation of taking off the ears, which was till very lately performed with a knife and wooden mould, rendering it both tedious and painful: it is, however, now very much improved by the invention of an instrument admirably adapted to the purpose, by which the separation of the ear is almost instantaneous. It is only adopted where horses are lop-eared , and bear the appearance of mules about the head. As the operation is at best but a cruel mutilation, every humane and tender mind will t

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CROWN-SCAB

CROWN-SCAB

—is a partial appearance about the coronet of a horse, varying in different subjects, according to the state of the object diseased. It partakes a little of the disorder called grease , to which, if unattended to, it would soon degenerate; being a species of that defect, but in an inferior degree. In some it appears as a scurfy eruption, raising the hair, and turning it different ways, from whence soon oozes a kind of oily ichor, fœtid in smell, and greasy in appearance: in others, the discharge

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CUB

CUB

.—A young fox is so called during the first year....

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CURB

CURB

—is a callous enlargement, approaching ossification, and is situate at the lower junction of the bones, at the hind part of the hock, originally attended with stiffness, and lastly with lameness and pain. Curbs are evidently produced by kicks , blows , sudden turns or twists , riding too hard (or drawing too much weight) up hill: they should be attended to on their first appearance, when they soon submit to the usual modes adopted for extirpation. Mild blistering frequently succeeds, particularl

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CURB

CURB

.—The chain is so called, which is the part of the bridle-bit fixed to one cheek, and passing under the lower-jaw (and above the beard or chin) to the other. By the rein being fixed to rings or loops, at the lower extremity of the bit, this chain, called curb, constitutes a fulcrum; and the harder such rein is pulled, the harder will be the pressure of the curb upon the under jaw, and of course the greater power given to the rider. The curb consists merely of a neat wrought chain, small rings an

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CURRY-COMB

CURRY-COMB

,—a well known stable utensil, in constant use for the cleaning of horses. They are much more applicable to post and draft horses, than to horses of superior description, the fineness of whose coats, and the tenderness of whose skins, occasion much uneasiness to them during the prickly persecution , and to whom good, sweet, clean straw-bands are greatly preferable; it being matter of fair doubt, whether more horses are not lamed in the stable under the dancing ceremony of the curry-comb, than by

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CRUPPER

CRUPPER

,—a leathern convenience, or long strap, annexed to the hinder part of the saddle, having at the other extremity a loop to pass under the tail; by which the saddle is prevented from getting forward, and bringing the rider upon the neck of the horse. Such aid is by no means required with horses well made, and uniformly proportioned: they are rarely brought into use, but where a horse is lower before than behind ; and are in so much disrepute with amateurs and connoisseurs, that a real sportsman w

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CUTTING

CUTTING

.—Explained under Castration ....

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CUTTING in Action

CUTTING in Action

,—in the manege called interfering , is lacerating the round inside projecting part of the fetlock-joint, with the edge of the shoe, upon the foot of the opposite leg. This arises much more frequently from the indifference or neglect in the owner, than from any imperfection or defect of the horse; more horses cut from being broke and put into work too young, rode too long journies in a day, or over-worked when weary, than from any cause whatever. Some horses, it is true, cut from their formation

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DACE

DACE

,—a small fish, common in most rivers, where it is seen swimming near the surface, mostly in shallows, and near bridges, held in no estimation but with the common people....

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DAISY-CUTTER

DAISY-CUTTER

,—a sporting term for horses that go so near the ground, they frequently touch it with the tip of one toe or the other, and are constantly in danger of falling. A horse with broken knees may be considered of this description....

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DAPPLE

DAPPLE

.—Horses are so called who have partial variegated hues in the coat of different sizes, constituting small circles, both lighter and darker than the general colour of the horse. Such are said to be dappled ; hence we have dapple bays, dapple greys, and sometimes dapple blacks....

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DEALERS

DEALERS

.—See Horse Dealers ....

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DECOCTION

DECOCTION

.—A decoction for the purpose of fomenting swellings, tumours, or enlargements, (either as an emollient or discutient,) is made by boiling a double handful of Roman wormwood, camomile flowers, bay leaves, and elder flowers, in two gallons of water, for a quarter of an hour, and applying it to the part with sponge or flannel as hot as it can be used without injury to the hair. This will be found more fully explained under the proper head, Fomentation ....

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DECOY

DECOY

,—a canal, river, pond, or sheet of water, appropriated to the profitable purpose of taking wild ducks and teal : it is a business peculiar to those only who profess it, and conducted upon a principle of the strictest stillness and regularity. The person having the management of a decoy, must possess taciturnity and patience in a very great degree, both being brought into constant practice; without which, success can neither be expected or deserved. The fowl are brought within the tunnel of the

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DEER

DEER

,—a word indiscriminately used, implies (in its most extensive sense) the animals inhabiting parks and forests, whose flesh is equally denominated VENISON , though very different in size, flavour, and estimation. Deer are of two kinds; the one principally bred and preserved for the chase, the other for the table. A perfect description of the first will be found under the proper heads of Red Deer , Stag , and Hind ; of the latter, under Fallow Deer , Buck , and Doe ....

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DEER-STEALERS

DEER-STEALERS

—are those nocturnal desperadoes who, setting at defiance all laws, all possession of property, and the protectors of it, disguise themselves, and, under cover of the night, attack, seize, kill, and carry away, from the best fenced parks, bucks or does , (according to the season,) with the greatest impunity. Their mainspring of action is a dog of the cur kind, called "a coney-cut lurcher:" this is a breed peculiar to itself, and those who use it; being a light sort of brindled wiry-haired mongre

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DEFAULT

DEFAULT

;—a term in hunting, which custom has reduced to an abbreviation, and is in general called FAULT . The hounds, during a chase of any kind, when losing the scent, throwing up their noses, seeming at a loss, and dashing different ways, in anxious and earnest hope of recovery, are then said to be at " a fault ." This is the very moment when the judgment of the huntsman is most required, and the soonest to be observed. Different opinions have been formed, and decisions made, respecting the proper mo

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DEFECTS

DEFECTS

—in horses differ very materially from what are termed BLEMISHES , (which see:) the latter are always considered conspicuous, and easily observed by the eye of experience and judicious inspection. A horse may have defects not so readily to be perceived, and consequently remain a longer or shorter period before they are discovered: he may prove incorrigibly restive, and not happen to display it in a new situation for days or weeks; he may be a seasoned and invincible crib-biter ; he may be viciou

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DELPINI

DELPINI

,—originally called " Hackwood ," was bred by the late Duke of Bolton ; foaled in 1781; and got by Highflyer out of Countess , who was got by Blank . Delpini proved himself a very capital racer, beating most of the best horses of his year at all ages. He has also acquired some celebrity as a STALLION , being the sire of Kilton , Prior , Skelton , Miss Ann , Tiptoe , Abram Wood , Cardinal , Clymene , Dido , Golden Locks , Dapple , Flutter , Little Scot , Miss Beverly , Nixon , Opposition , Timoth

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DIABETES

DIABETES

,—divested of medical dignity, and technical ambiguity, is neither more or less than a profuse, frequent, and involuntary discharge of urine, from a weakness of some of the parts necessary to the secretion and evacuation of that particular excrement. Whatever may have been the cause, whether an injury in the loins, near the region of the kidnies, violent and excessive purging from improper physic, or a relaxed state of the sphincter of the bladder, the road to relief and cure is still the same;

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DIAMOND

DIAMOND

—was esteemed for some years the speediest and best bottomed horse in the kingdom. He was foaled in 1792; bred by Mr. Dawson; got by Highflyer out of the dam of Sparkler , and was own brother to Screveton . At three years old he repeatedly ran in handsome with some of the first horses, and was within a length of winning the Derby at Epsom when twelve started, but did no more than receive 50 guineas forfeit from Lark at the second Newmarket Meeting of the year 1795. First Spring Meeting, 1796, he

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DIET

DIET

.—The diet of horses in this country is now so universally known, that very little is required upon the subject of explanation under this head. The articles called oats , beans , hay , bran , chaff , carrots , and grains , are individually brought into use, as may best coincide with the pecuniary propensities, or liberal sensations, of the owners. Whatever may be written upon the subject of quantity and quality , will very little influence the enquirers upon those heads; the GENTLEMAN and the SP

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DIOMED

DIOMED

—was in great repute as a racer, and afterwards as A STALLION at ten guineas a mare. He was bred by Sir C. Bunbury ; got by Florizel ; dam by Spectator , and grand-dam by Blank ; was foaled in 1777, and proved himself an equal runner with the best horse of his time. As a stallion, he has propagated some of the finest stock in the kingdom. Diomed is the sire of Anthony , Charlotte , Grey Diomed , Laïs , Mademoiselle , Playfellow , Quetlavaca , Sir Cecil , Whiskers , Montezuma , Glaucus , Speculat

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DISEASE

DISEASE

—is not only a state of the body directly opposite to the standard of health, but may be defined of two kinds; as those with which we are afflicted by the influence of a superior Power, whose wisdom we are not permitted to explore; and by others that, in acts of neglect and indiscretion , we bring upon ourselves. Diseases are differently conceived: some writers describe them by their cause , some by their effect : leaving the investigation in a kind of medical mystery, bearing no ill affinity to

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DISTANCE

DISTANCE

;—a sporting term appertaining solely to the TURF . It is a length of two hundred and forty yards (actual measurement) from the WINNING-POST of every RACE-COURSE in the kingdom; precisely at which spot is fixed a post corresponding with others, but having a gallery annexed capable of holding three or four persons, which is called the DISTANCE-POST . In this gallery, as well as in the gallery of the winning-post, before the horses start each heat, is stationed a person holding a crimson flag; dur

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DIURETICS

DIURETICS

.—The class of medicines so called, are those which, by their peculiar stimulus, act solely upon the parts appropriated to the secretion of urine and its evacuation; thereby relieving the frame from such impurities, or slight disorders as pass under the denomination of HUMOURS , and are said to originate in the state of the blood. The advertised diuretic balls of the Author are recommended and established for their well-known efficacy in "cracks, scratches, inflammation of the eyes, perceptible

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DOE

DOE

—is the female of the FALLOW DEER , bred in PARKS , and are the species from which the table is supplied with venison: the male is called A BUCK ; the female, A DOE : the young (of which they produce but one annually) is called A FAWN . Doe venison is not considered equal in epicurean estimation with the buck, either in fat or flavour ; nor is it in season till the latter has declined: this happens at the beginning of autumn, when the season for copulation (called rutting time ) comes on. Fawns

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DOGS

DOGS

,—that well-known species of animal whose fidelity, attachment, gratitude, and general utility, very far exceed every eulogium within the power of the profuse pen of admiration to bestow. Their virtues and useful qualifications are beyond the most prolific description: they are the protectors of our property at home, the promoters of our pleasures abroad, and the pleasing partners of our domestic comforts by the fire-side. The Rev. Mr. Daniel , in his elegant production called "Rural Sports," ha

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DOCKING

DOCKING

.—The amputation of the tail is so called, from that part of the tail left to the body being called the DOCK . It is a very short and simple operation, attended with no danger, and may with yearlings be performed even with a common knife. A very slight cauterization with a hot-iron, and a little powdered rosin, immediately stops the bleeding, and a cure takes place in a few days. It was formerly a custom to dock horses close to the quarters, under the erroneous and ridiculous impression of makin

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DOUBLE

DOUBLE

—a term in HARE HUNTING . The hare is said to double, when, being considerably ahead of the hounds, she throws herself to the right or left, and returns in a parallel line to the track she went before; getting into which, she is said to run the foil . If during the chase the lays down, she is then said to quat ....

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DRAG

DRAG

—is a sporting term in HUNTING , and used exactly in the same sense with THE FOX , as trail is with THE HARE . Upon throwing THE HOUNDS into covert , to draw for a FOX , any single hound giving tongue , is said to CHALLENGE , and to have hit upon drag ; that is, to have come upon the foot or scent of the fox, where he had been in the night or early part of the morning, before he retired to secrete himself for the day. When it was the custom to be at the covert side so soon as there was day-light

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DRAG-NET

DRAG-NET

—is the particular NET in use with those nocturnal depredators who exert their utmost endeavours to devastate every water in the neighbourhood where they reside. It is of sufficient length to extend from one side of any moderate pond , moat , or river , to the other; and having the bottom plentifully loaded with leads at equal distances, with the addition of assistants at each end to bring the two together, encloses of course all the fish within its draught....

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DRAUGHT or Draft Horses

DRAUGHT or Draft Horses

—are of two kinds; the one adapted to the light carriages and splendid trappings of the great; the other to the purposes of agriculture, and the commercial transactions of the Metropolis, where their numbers, their strength, and powerful execution, exceed every idea of the most fertile imagination. See Cart Horses ....

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DRAWING

DRAWING

—is a term used in FOX and STAG HUNTING , when drawing a covert to find either of the former, or an outlying deer; it being customary to say, "we draw for A FOX ;" "we try for A HARE ."...

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DRAW-NET

DRAW-NET

—is used for taking birds of different kinds, but more particularly applied to the net made use of with the SETTING DOG for taking PARTRIDGES , by which mode the whole COVEY are frequently secured. The old birds are liberated, and the young destined to the table. This is, however, considered so destructive and unfair a practice, that it is continued but by very few, and those principally consist of RUSTIC TYRANTS , or rigid Cynics , who wish to monopolize not only the SPORT and the GAME , but al

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DRAY

DRAY

.—A squirrel's deposit for its young is so called; it is built in the triangular branches of a tree, and resembles the nest of a magpye....

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DRENCH, or Drink

DRENCH, or Drink

,—any medical composition prepared in a liquid form, and given to horses or cattle for the cure of disease. A distinction is made between the two in general; it being the custom to say, DRINK for a HORSE , drench for a cow . They are given with a horn, sold by saddlers and collar-makers for that purpose....

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DRIFT

DRIFT

—is the act of driving A COMMON . This ceremony takes place once , twice , or thrice , a year, (according to the custom of the place,) to insure and continue the privilege of the Lord of the Manor , as well as to preserve the rights of the parishioners. The cattle upon the COMMONS and WASTES being all driven to some particular spot, are there examined, and their owners ascertained: those belonging to parishioners (or such as have right of common ) are immediately liberated, and return to their o

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DRIVER

DRIVER

,—a name given to many famous horses, but of very different blood. The first was foaled in 1727, bred by the Duke of Ancaster , and got by the Wynn Arabian, of no great note. Mr. Beaver's Driver was foaled 1732, and got by Snake out of Thwaites's dun mare. Mr. Lamego's Driver (commonly called Little Driver ) was got by Beaver's Driver ; dam by Childers ; grand-dam by the Walpole Barb; was foaled in 1743; and for some years proved one of the best plate horses in the kingdom, having won upwards of

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DROPSY of the Chest

DROPSY of the Chest

—is a disorder to which horses are subject; and many instances have occurred in the practice of the Author, where seven, eight, and in one case near ten gallons of water were found in the CAVITY of the CHEST , upon opening the body after death. This accumulation of fluid being completely extravasated, no hope of cure can be entertained, as the preternatural collection can neither be taken up by absorption, or carried off by evacuation. There seems to be only one predominant trait, or distinguish

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DRUGS

DRUGS

.—The parts of the MATERIA MEDICA are so called in their individual state, previous to their incorporation with each other, when they then become CHEMICALS or GALENICALS , according to the different processes they have undergone; and the most eminent commercial houses in that way, announce themselves dealers in "Chemicals, Galenicals, and Drugs." There is nothing requires more the scrutinizing eye of the SPORTSMAN , or the judicious exertion of the VETERINARIAN , than the selection of MEDICINES

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DUBBING

DUBBING

.—Taking off the COMB and GILLS from a game chick, before he is turned to a master-walk, is so called. The operation is performed with a penknife for the comb , and scissars for the gills ; after which wash the parts with vinegar, or weak salt and water, which terminates the whole....

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DULNESS

DULNESS

—in a horse of any tolerable spirit, may be considered an infallible sign of present disquietude, or approaching DISEASE . In all cases, accurate investigation, and early relief, are much to be commended: even a slight cold attended to at its commencement , may be prevented from speedily producing an INFLAMMATION of the LUNGS , FEVER , or many other disorders of equal anxiety, trouble, and expence....

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DUNG

DUNG

.—The excrement of the horse is so called, and should be occasionally attended to, as its appearance will sometimes tend to the prevention of disease. If the dung is bright in colour, the globules uniform in shape and consistence, and not fœtid in effluvia , the body may be considered in good state: on the contrary, if the dung, when voided, is hard, black, and offensive, or the parts adhere to each other by a viscid ropy slime, they are equal prognostics of internal heat, foulness, and impendin

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DUNGANNON

DUNGANNON

,—the name of a horse of much celebrity, his winnings being equal to any racer of his day. He was bred by Col. O'Kelly , and foaled in 1780. He was got by Eclipse ; dam ( Aspasia ) by Herod ; her dam ( Doris ) by Blank ; grand-dam ( Helen ) by Spectator , &amp;c. &amp;c. After beating every horse of eminence, particularly the famous horse Rockingham over Newmarket , he was taken out of training, and as a stallion produced annually some of the speediest and best bottomed horses in the kin

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EARS

EARS

.—As the ears constitute much of the beauty of a horse, according as they are well or ill shaped, so from their situation, they are sure to become early objects of observation. If they are small, soft, and fine, curving inward in a small degree at the point, perfectly erect, and spirited in action, they give the animal a very noble, majestic, and commanding aspect: on the contrary, when a horse points his ears forwards, he bears the appearance of looking eternally for mischief , and always prepa

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ECLIPSE

ECLIPSE

—the name of the most famous horse (since Flying Childers ) ever produced or trained in this or any other country. He was bred in Windsor Great Park by the Culloden (or Great) Duke of Cumberland , being foaled during the celebrated eclipse in the year 1764, from which his name was taken. He was got by Old Marske , dam ( Spilletta ) by Regulus ; her dam ( Mother Western ) by Smith's son of Snake ; grand-dam by Lord D'Arcy 's Old Montague , &amp;c. &amp;c. Upon the decease of his Royal Hig

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EARTH

EARTH

.—A fox beating his pursuers when hunted, and taking refuge under ground , is then said to have earthed , or gone to earth. Some of these earths are situate in old chalk pits, forming such different channels and ramifications amidst the roots of trees in woods and coppices, that it is impossible to dig them out; but where there is the least probability of success, it is never relinquished; upon the established and well-founded principle, that the hounds are always entitled to blood after a GOOD

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EARTH-STOPPER

EARTH-STOPPER

—is an indispensible part of a FOX-HUNTING establishment, whose business is principally performed by night. His department is to visit and stop the strongest earths in the district intended to be hunted on the following day. This is usually effected between the hours of ten at night and four in the morning, by means of bushes , brambles , earth , &amp;c. to furnish which, he is provided with a hand-bill, spade, candle and lanthorn, a hardy rough poney, terriers, and of course a pocket pistol

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ELDER

ELDER

—is a tree common in most hedges in the country, bearing a fruit called ELDER-BERRIES , from which people make a very good wine. It is, however, only mentioned here to remind the reader, that the flowers are a very excellent ingredient in fomentations, and sporting gentlemen should never be without them: they should be gathered in the heighth of the bloom, properly dried, and preserved for use....

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ELECAMPANE

ELECAMPANE

,—a root formerly in much estimation for its efficacy in coughs and disorders of the breast and lungs; hence the reputation it has attained in pectoral compositions for the use of horses. The great difficulty, however, of procuring any thing like the genuine root in powder from the medical retail shops, must ever prevent any great gratification of expectation, to those who rely too much upon the properties it is said to retain....

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EMBROCATION

EMBROCATION

;—a name given to SPIRITUOUS , VOLATILE , or SATURNINE applications in a liquid form; either as corroborants , stimulants , repellents , &amp;c. and in most cases they are doubly efficacious, if their use is preceded by sponges dipt in a hot decoction, prepared from those garden aromatics called " FOMENTATION HERBS ."...

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EMOLLIENTS

EMOLLIENTS

—are such external applications as mollify the surface, and alleviate any stricture upon the surrounding parts: they supple the solids, as well as sheath and soften any asperity of the fluids. Fomentations are of this class, and prove of the greatest utility in all tumefactions, enlargements, and many lamenesses of HORSES , with those practitioners who have judgment and patience to bring them perseveringly into use. From the relaxing property of emollient topics, and their sheathing of acrimony,

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ENTRANCE of HORSES

ENTRANCE of HORSES

—is the ceremony of entering horses (at the particular places appointed) on a certain day previous to the races at any city, borough, or town, where the plates to be run for are given and advertised. Horses intended to run, are "to be SHEWN and ENTERED ," paying two or three guineas " entrance money ," (according to the custom of the place,) and in general five shillings to the CLERK of THE COURSE . For all plates given by His Majesty , or his R. H. the P. of Wales , no other entrance money is p

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ENTRANCE of HOUNDS

ENTRANCE of HOUNDS

—is the introduction of young hounds to the PACK ; with whom, at a proper age, they are incorporated, for their initiation in the kind of chase to which they are then to become appropriate. This is a matter so truly professional, and so entirely dependent upon the judgment of the HUNTSMAN and his attendants , that neither instruction or entertainment can be derived from literary description....

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EPILEPSY

EPILEPSY

,—a disorder in horses, bearing some similitude to APOPLEXY and STAGGERS ; for which the same medical means are applied for relief....

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EQUERRY

EQUERRY

—is an appointment of much honour in the home department of His Majesty , under the sole direction of the MASTER of the HORSE . There are FIVE EQUERRIES in this official situation, one of whom is called the first : of the other four, two are always in waiting to attend upon His Majesty in every equestrian excursion, whether on the road , to the field , or in the chase , with whom His Majesty most graciously condescends to converse familiarly. His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales , the Dukes of

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EQUERRIES

EQUERRIES

—apply equally to those in a more subordinate situation, who personally officiate in the STABLES of the Crown , and to whom is entrusted the breaking , managing , and preparing saddle-horses of every description for the King's use. Some of the out-riders who attend upon the family, pass also under the same denomination....

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ESCAPE

ESCAPE

,—the name of a horse of great beauty, excellent symmetry, and much celebrity. He was bred by Mr. Franco , and got by Highflyer out of a Squirrel mare; he was foaled in 1785; and in the First Spring Meeting at Newmarket , 1789, he beat the Prince of Wales's Cantoo Baboo , from the ditch-in, for 200 guineas. He was then purchased by his Royal Highness, and in the Second Spring Meeting he received forfeit from Alexander , and Clown , 100 guineas each. In the First October Meeting of the same year,

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ESCHAR

ESCHAR

—is the prominence remaining upon the cicatrix of an ill-cured wound, or the scab frequently seen to form a projecting apex upon a broken knee; or where some injury has been left to cure itself by an effort of nature, without the least interposition of art. If it is a scab only, and not of long standing, it may in general be brought away spontaneously, by occasional softenings with small quantities of camphorated spermacæti liniment; if, on the contrary, they are rigidly seated, and have acquire

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ESTRAY, or Stray

ESTRAY, or Stray

,—appertain equally to horse , mare , bull , ox , cow , sheep , or, in fact, any head of cattle, who having strayed from its own home, common, waste, or lair, into a strange MANOR , or LORDSHIP , and there found without an owner, is then called an ESTRAY , or stray : in which case it is an established custom, sanctioned by LAW , and founded in EQUITY , that such stray is proclaimed, and his or her marks described, by the common crier, in the three next nearest towns on the market-day; and if the

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EUPHORBIUM

EUPHORBIUM

,—an article whose acrid and stimulative property renders it only applicable to one medical purpose, and that externally; it constitutes a principal ingredient in the preparation of BLISTERING OINTMENT for HORSES , where its proportion, if managed properly, should be exactly equal with its corresponding article CANTHARIDES , commonly called Spanish flies ....

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EVACUANTS

EVACUANTS

—are such medicines as gently stimulate the intestines, and urinary passages, to a more speedy secretion and expulsion of their excrementitious contents. The term is applicable to both PURGATIVES and DIURETICS ; the effect of which is to remove plethora in horses, and to prevent the consequent viscidity of blood; which, when a horse is overloaded in his frame, and the solids too grossly distended, soon displays itself in swelled legs , cracked heels , cutaneous scurfy eruptions , grease , farcy

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EVACUATION

EVACUATION

—is that part of the ANIMAL ŒCONOMY , without a regular preservation of which, the frame of man or beast cannot long continue free from PAIN or DISEASE . Next to the aliment necessarily received for the support of life, EVACUATION is the very effort of Nature upon which HEALTH must principally depend. Little penetration is requisite to comprehend most perfectly a system so plain as to require but very concise explanation. Consistency should be observed, and attention should be paid, to what the

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EXCRESCENCE

EXCRESCENCE

.—Any preternatural enlargement is so called; but it is principally, and most properly, applied to those of a spongy nature, as WARTS and WENS , as well as a polypus upon any particular part. In all wounds of HORSES , if they are of considerable magnitude, fungous flesh increases very rapidly, and frequently disconcerts the young or injudicious VETERINARIAN ; who, erroneously adopting caustics and escharotics , too often renders the remedy more destructive than the disease. Fungous formation of

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EXERCISE

EXERCISE

.—The great advantages resulting from EXERCISE , to both man and beast, are now so universally understood, both in theory and practice, that animadversion here must be considered matter of superfluity: those, however, who wish for a more enlarged or scientific disquisition, will find fifty pages in the second volume of the Gentleman's Stable Directory appropriated to this particular head....

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EXPEDIATE

EXPEDIATE

—is a term transmitted from one book to another by former writers, but is at present little used in either THEORY or PRACTICE . It implies the cutting out the centrical ball of the foot of a dog, or such claws as shall totally prevent his pursuit of game. In earlier times, when the FOREST LAWS were more rigidly enforced, the owner of any dog not expediated, living within the district, was liable to a fine for non-obedience....

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EXTRAVASATION

EXTRAVASATION

—applies only to such fluids as may, from any accidental cause, or injury sustained, escape from the tubes or vessels in which they were confined; when they from such extravasation become stagnant, laying the foundation of an obstruction terminating in an enlargement, probably disagreeable to the eye, and some impediment to action. Extravasated lymph, oozing from ruptured fibres, lay most invariably the foundation of almost every tumefaction to which we can advert; and evidently demonstrates the

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EYES

EYES

.—The state of the EYES in every horse constitutes so much of the value and excellence in respect to their good or bad formation, that proper, nay extreme, circumspection ought to be used in the examination previous to purchase. The best and most experienced judges of horses are sometimes seriously disappointed, and not unfrequently deceived, in a superficial survey, and too hasty decision: in fact, there is no point of the ANIMAL upon the merits of which (in a variety of instances) it is so dif

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FALLOW DEER

FALLOW DEER

—are the species of Deer bred in parks for the production of venison, as well for the private use of the great and opulent, as for sale. The male is called A BUCK ; the female, a DOE ; the offspring of both, A FAWN ; and they vary some degrees in colour, but consist principally of a dark dingy brown, inclining to black, or a mottled sandy dun. The BUCK is furnished with horns, which he sheds yearly: the DOE has no such weapons for self-defence. The BUCK sheds his horns from the middle of April t

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FALLOW LAND

FALLOW LAND

—is land so called when under no immediate cultivation, but ploughed up, and laid at rest, to acquire, from its exposure to the elements, additional strength for the production of future crops. Of these there are both summer and winter fallows; upon the last of which, if dry, HARES may generally be found in the months of January , February , and March , if there are any to be seen in the country....

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FALCONER

FALCONER

.—A FALCONER , whose province it was to tame , manage , and look after FALCONS , and other hawks , was formerly as great and conspicuous a character as the most celebrated HUNTSMAN of the present day. The influence of fashion, and the changes wrought by time, have, however, so obscured both SPORT and SPORTSMAN in this way, that neither hawk , falcon , or falconer , are to be seen or heard of, unless in the northern parts of the kingdom, where it is also nearly buried in oblivion....

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FALSE QUARTER

FALSE QUARTER

—is a defect in the hoof of a horse, originally sustained by some injury, producing a destruction of parts; as quittor , canker , wounds , treads , bruises , or such formation of matter , by which a part of the hoof has been unavoidably destroyed, or necessarily taken away. In the regeneration of parts, the incarnation (from the rigid and horny nature of the hoof) is irregular and imperfect, forming a sort of cleft (or artificial union) with the sound part upon the surface, productive of a sensi

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FAMILY

FAMILY

.—See Black Legs and Betting ....

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FARCY

FARCY

,—except the GLANDERS , is the most unfortunate and destructive disease to which the horse is subject. It is infectious , and may be communicated from one horse to another, or to the whole stable, where many stand together. As it frequently attacks different subjects in a different way, (according to the state and condition of the horse at the time of attack,) so it has afforded opportunity to the fertile and ingenious to extend and define it to various kinds of FARCY , though they are but diffe

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FARRIER

FARRIER

—is the appellation by which a person is known, whose occupation it has hitherto been considered to execute the joint office of furnishing shoes for the PROTECTION of the FEET , and the BODY with MEDICINE for the cure of disease . It has been, from its original formation as a business, the most dangerous , laborious , and least compensated , trade (or profession) of any in the kingdom; consequently none but the most indigent or illiterate (from the eaves of a cottage , or the walls of a workhous

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FARRIERY

FARRIERY

.—The ART of FARRIERY consists in the peculiar mode of discovering one disorder from another, by a discrimination of predominant symptoms, and the administration of medicine particularly applicable to that peculiar species of disease. It also comprehends and includes the operations of BLEEDING , CROPPING , DOCKING , NICKING , BLISTERING , FIRING , &amp;c. as well as the cure of wounds, and the long train of ills and accidents to which the horse is incident. This ART (or more properly science

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FAWN

FAWN

—is the young of the BUCK and DOE , called a fawn during the first year. A fawn is secreted by the dam in the fern , or long grass , with great care, during the first weeks, and seldom accompanies the mother but by night. In royal PARKS and CHACES , a certain number are annually killed when fawns of about three months old, to prevent the district from being overstocked ; this is generally done by COURSING with GREYHOUNDS , which is most excellent sport, the greyhounds being frequently beat ....

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FEATHER

FEATHER

.—The centrical division, and different directions, of the surrounding hair in a horse's forehead is so called: they are also frequently seen upon the neck on one or both sides the mane, and sometimes upon the hind quarters, and are considered natural ornaments: their similitude to a feather of the first plumage has given them this appellation....

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FEATHER WEIGHT

FEATHER WEIGHT

,—in the SPORTING WORLD , signifies the lightest weight that can be put upon the back of a HORSE , in whatever MATCH he may be engaged, and totally depends upon the will of the owner; who is not under the necessity of bringing his RIDER to the scale either before or after the race, in an engagement where "feather weight" is particularly expressed. On the contrary, when a horse runs for any PLATE , MATCH , SWEEPSTAKES , or SUBSCRIPTION , at a fixed weight , according to his AGE , HEIGHTH , or QUA

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FEEDER

FEEDER

—is one essential part of a HUNTING ESTABLISHMENT , bearing no ill affinity to the bellows-blower of an ORGANIST ; for if the hounds are not well and properly fed, they can never be adequate to the fatigues and difficulties they have to go through. To the FEEDER is submitted the management of the HOUNDS in kennel; but he is always subject to the occasional directions of the HUNTSMAN , whose immediate subordinate he is, and whose dictation he must implicitly obey. He should not only be young , in

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FEET

FEET

.—The FEET of HORSES being the very basis of support upon which the safety and expedition of the frame entirely depend, they are entitled to every possible degree of CARE and ATTENTION ; more particularly in the WINTER SEASON , when, from neglect , so many ills and inconveniencies are known to arise. The injuries, accidents, and diseases, to which the FEET are constantly liable, consist of CRACKS in the heels , SCRATCHES or lacerations , STUBS and bruises of the outer sole , or upon the verge of

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FERN

FERN

—is a plant abounding plentifully in CHACES , BEECHEN WOODS , and COMMONS , and is a seeming diminutive resemblance of our native bulwark the hardy oak, not more in the similitude of its growth, than its appropriation to various purposes of utility. It not only constitutes excellent bedding for cattle in the winter, but has been considered so instrumental to the PRESERVATION of GAME , that laws have been framed to prevent its being wantonly destroyed, or unseasonably perverted, to the interested

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FERRET

FERRET

—is a useful little animal, well known to WARRENERS and RAT-CATCHERS , by whom they are principally bred, as necessary to their own occupations. The ferret is of great spirit, strength, and courage, for its size; is an inveterate enemy to rabbits , rats , and poultry ; in the pursuit of which, it will encounter any difficulty or danger, when once put upon the scent . The body is longer in proportion to its height, than almost any other animal, the weazel and stoat excepted. The colour frequently

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FETLOCK

FETLOCK

.—The part so called is the next joint below the knee, and is formed by the union of the shank-bone, at its bottom , with the upper part of the small bone passing from this junction to the coronary bone at its top . The TENDONS (commonly called the back sinews ) have their lower seat of insertion at this joint, which is constantly liable to, and frequently susceptible of, the most serious LAMENESS . As injuries of this joint are sometimes incurable, particularly when occasioned by a twist or lig

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FEVER

FEVER

,— HORSES are subject to, and frequently attacked with, originating in various causes, and acting upon different constitutions in a different way. Judicious discrimination should be made between what is ( ab origne ) a FEVER within itself, and symptomatic fever, dependent upon, and arising from, another cause. Extreme pain may produce FEVER , as in large formations of matter , where tumours approach gradually to suppuration. Fever may become attendant upon inflammatory cholic , or upon a severe

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FIDGET

FIDGET

,—the name of a horse of much celebrity, who won as many capital stakes as most horses of his time. He was bred by Mr. Vernon ; was got by Florizel ; dam by Matchem , out of an own sister to Sweetbriar . In the possession of the Duke of Bedford , he became a stallion at Wooburn, and was the sire of Augusta , Cub , Victor , Frisky , Hamadryad , Nestler , Fantail , Zemise , Granadilla , Lady Sarah , St. Vitus ; all winners; as well as a great number of colts and fillies, who won large stakes at th

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FIGGING

FIGGING

—is the sublime art of insinuating a profusion of false spirit, and artificial fire , into a horse, when offering him for sale. This is done by privately introducing a piece of ginger (previously bitten) within the sphincter of the anus , where, by its painful stimulus, it so irritates the animal, that he seems, by the cocking of his tail, the instantaneous erection of his ears, and the deceptive spirit he displays in action, to be a horse of very superior appearance and value to what he turns o

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FILLETS

FILLETS

—are, in more intelligible language, the LOINS of a HORSE , and seated above the flank, beyond the last rib, and in a transverse line with the hip-bone. A horse long in the back, narrow across the loins, and tucked up (greyhound like) in the carcase, is said to be badly made in the FILLETS , or, in other words, weak in the loins ....

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FILLY

FILLY

,—the female produce of a HORSE and MARE : she is called a FILLY FOAL the first year; a YEARLING the second ; and a FILLY till four years old....

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FILM

FILM

—appertains to a certain DEFECT , and properly used, applies only to a thickening of the outer coat or humour of THE EYE ; in which case relief from external applications may very frequently be obtained: but where any of the internal coverings are become opaque, (and sometimes erroneously called films,) success from topical experiments must not be expected....

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FIRETAIL

FIRETAIL

—was a name given to three famous running horses in succession; the first got by Childers , the second by Squirrel , and the third by Eclipse ....

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FIRING

FIRING

—is an operation performed upon different parts of A HORSE for the promotion of any particular purpose, (according to the degree of injury sustained,) and in the following way. The horse being safely secured by twitches and cords , according to the methods in general use, the OPERATOR having his irons in the fire properly heated, and his attendant ready to supply him with another, as often as the fire of the previous iron is exhausted, he proceeds with the edge of the red-hot iron to make longit

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FIRING-IRON

FIRING-IRON

,—the instrument with which the OPERATION of FIRING is performed. It is a piece of iron about fifteen inches long, with a stem terminating in a wooden handle at one end, having a blade of three inches long, and two wide, at the other . This blade is forged flat, and is at the back half an inch in thickness, becoming gradually thinner towards the edge , which is not more than one third what it is at the back. They are formed of different dimensions for different occasions, and three or four are k

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FISH

FISH

.—Reasons are adduced under the head " Angling ," why it has been thought unnecessary to enter upon so copious a subject in a work of this kind; but as FISH , FISH PONDS , and FISHERIES , have been found repeatedly worthy the attention of the legislature, for the preservation of PROPERTY and PERSONAL RIGHTS , a concise abstract of the LAWS , as they now stand, respecting those rights, will constitute the whole that can be required, or thought necessary, upon this subject. By the 5th Eliz. c. xxi

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FISTULA

FISTULA

.—Any ulcer having a SINUS or pipe of uncertain termination, the inside of which has acquired callosity , and from whence a matter or bloody sanies flows, or may be pressed out, is called a FISTULA . In its more immediate application, it appertains principally to the injury sustained upon the WITHERS of HORSES ; pinched by the saddle , or bruised by the harness ; in long and severe chases or journies with one , or long continued weight and friction with the other . A repetition of the first caus

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FLANK of a HORSE

FLANK of a HORSE

—is the part lying between the last RIB and the HIND QUARTER , reaching from the part of the LOINS nearest the hip-bone , to the bottom of the belly nearest the STIFLE . If a horse is well ribbed up, his flank not hollow , but circularly prominent, and his BACK SHORT , he is then called a "good barrelled horse," and is very seldom deficient in other respects which constitute attraction....

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FLEAM

FLEAM

, the well-known instrument used for BLEEDING HORSES . Lancets are preferred by some with thin-skinned and blood-horses. Different kinds of SPRING-FLEAMS have been invented also; but no one has been produced of sufficient merit or utility to entirely supersede the established custom....

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FLESHY-FOOTED

FLESHY-FOOTED

.—A horse is said to be FLESHY FOOTED , when that part of the bottom of the foot on each side the FROG (called the OUTER SOLE ) is preternaturally prominent, constituting a convexity above the wall or crust of the HOOF , where the shoe should have its proper bearing upon the FOOT of the HORSE . In feet of this description, the outer sole, from repeated bruising and battering in constant work upon hard roads, or from an injudicious and destructive paring away with the butteris, are so exceeding t

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FLORIZEL

FLORIZEL

—was a horse of much celebrity upon the TURF , beating most horses of his time; and was afterwards a stallion in great repute for many years. He was got by Herod , dam by Cygnet ; bred by Mr. C. Blake , and foaled in 1768. He was the sire of Berwick , Crookshanks , Diomed , King William , Experiment , Fox , Ulysses , Bustler , Dash , Fidget , Fortunio , Hope , Lee Boo , May Fly , Mouse , Mulberry , Nimble , Pig , Prizefighter , Tongs , Hope , Spendthrift , Tick , Tickle , Wonder , Brother to Fid

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FOAL

FOAL

—is the produce of HORSE and MARE in a general sense, including both male and female; but when a more particular description is required, it is customary to say either a COLT , or a FILLY foal....

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FOAM

FOAM

.—See FROTH ....

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FODDER

FODDER

.—The winter provender for HORSES and CATTLE is so called, and consists of barley and oat straw , peas haum , the short rakings of the barn floor after threshing the corn, and previous to cleaning it; all which, with good shelter in the most severe and dreary part of the season, constitute no ill accommodation; particularly those FARMYARDS in the country that are well managed, from whence HORSES , after a winter's run , frequently come up FIRM in FLESH , and not very foul in condition . On the c

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FOIL

FOIL

,—a term used in HARE HUNTING . When, during the chase, a hare, after a head or double , runs over the ground she has ran before , she is then said to be running the foil , and with strict truth, for nothing can so much foil the HOUNDS as a chase of this description. Old hares , who have speed enough to break away, and get considerably a-head, almost invariably throw themselves out to the right or left , double , and QUAT ; particularly if a hedge-row , hedge , fern , furze , or any kind of cove

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FOLDING-NET

FOLDING-NET

.—See Bat Fowling ....

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FOMENTATION

FOMENTATION

—is, perhaps, the most generally useful of all external applications in a great variety of cases, and cannot of course be too well known, or too much encouraged. It is a process but little prescribed or practised by FARRIERS or VETERINARIANS ; either because its efficacious property is very little known; or the persevering patience required in the act, is too great for constitutional indolence . In all inflammatory tumours and enlargements arising from STRAINS , BLOWS , BRUISES , and various oth

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FOOT

FOOT

.—The foot of a horse extends from the FETLOCK-JOINT to the OUTER SOLE at the bottom of the hoof : it includes the CORONARY-BONE , the NUT-BONE , the COFFIN-BONE , and the inner sole, (or membranous mass,) in which it is deposited; as well as the frog and the wall or hoof surrounding and supporting the whole.—See Feet ....

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FOOT-FOUNDERED

FOOT-FOUNDERED

.—A horse is said to be FOOT-FOUNDEREd when there is an evident defect in action, and a palpable tenderness, which prevents him from putting his feet freely and boldly to the ground. This malady seems never to have been clearly comprehended, or perfectly explained, by any of those who have written upon the subjects included in the general practice of FARRIERY . It is to be observed, that HORSES labouring under this infirmity , have become gradually contracted in the hoof , and proportionally nar

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FOREHAND

FOREHAND

—implies that part of A HORSE extending from the ears to the withers ; which, to be handsome, should be long, and rise gradually from the upper point of the shoulder-blade to the very extremity of the ear. A FOREHAND of this description adds greatly to the majestic appearance and value of the horse. But a horse low before , with a short forehand , and indented crest , can never become an object of attraction....

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FOREHEAD

FOREHEAD

.—The forehead is the front of the horse's head; to observe the form and effect of which, it will be necessary to get before him. It is the space extending from the roots of the ears , and between the eyes, which being BROAD and FLAT , having a feather or star in the center, constitutes a degree of beauty, and may be supposed to have a cross of the Arabian in the blood. If a horse, having a wide flat forehead, has the advantage of a full prominent spirited eye, they at the first approach afford

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FORE-LEGS

FORE-LEGS

.—The fore-legs of a horse begin at the lower extremity of the SHOULDER-BLADE before, and the ELBOW behind: they consist of what are termed the ARMS , (or fore thighs,) which extend to each KNEE ; the shank-bone from the knee to the FETLOCK JOINT ; the fetlock-bone is continued from thence to the CORONARY-BONE , into which it is inserted ; the coronary-bone in part fills the cavity, or box of the hoof, being lodged in the COFFIN-BONE , supported by the nut-bone behind; these last are deposited i

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FOREST

FOREST

.—A FOREST is a large tract of land in pasture, many miles in extent and circumference, the property of THE CROWN , mostly well stocked with timber, (from whence the navy is supplied,) as well as with a variety of underwood , furze , fern , &amp;c. for the breeding and preservation of both VENISON and GAME . Forests are of great antiquity, and their immunities are protected by laws peculiarly and solely adapted to their preservation; the execution of which are lodged in principal officers, a

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FOREST LAWS

FOREST LAWS

—are the laws framed for the protection of VERT and VENISON within the precincts of a forest. It is the business, and the duty, of all subordinate officers, to apprehend offenders of whatever description, and present them to the FOREST COURTS , in order to their being punished according to the magnitude of the offence they may have committed....

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FOREST COURTS

FOREST COURTS

—are the courts occasionally held for executing the FOREST LAWS . The principal of which is, the Court of the Chief Justice in Eyre ; this is a court of record , and is held only once in three years . The Court of Swainmote consists of the verderers, who, in some degree, are the JUDGES ; as they receive presentments, and hear evidence, as well as enquire of offences to convict , but cannot pass judgment, that power being reserved to the Court of the Chief Justice (called " JUSTICE SEAT ") alone.

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FORM

FORM

—is the spot in which the HARE takes her seat at the dawn of day, to secrete herself, after making her various work in the night (or rather in the early part of the morning) to avoid discovery. When found sitting , she is said to be in her FORM . If shot as she sits, without being previously disturbed, she is then said to have been shot in her form . Hares vary their sitting according to the season , the sun , and the wind . Soon after harvest they are found in wheat, barley, and oat stubbles, a

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FOUL-FEEDERS

FOUL-FEEDERS

—See Appetite ....

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FOWL

FOWL

.— Fowl , properly arranged, may be classed under three distinct heads; as DOMESTIC FOWL , consisting of cocks, hens, geese, and ducks. Wild fowl , comprehending, in the general sporting acceptation, only birds of flight and passage, as sea-gulls and geese, wild ducks, widgeon, teal, curlews, plover, woodcocks, and snipes. Game fowl , in the earliest Acts of Parliament, for its preservation, were extended to a very long list, including even the "Heron," the "Mallard," the "Duck," and the "Teal:"

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FOWLING

FOWLING

—is a term in some degree PROVINCIAL , being used in a different sense in one county to what it is in another . In fenny countries, FOWLING applies generally to the pursuit of water fowl , and the act of obtaining or taking them with either NET or GUN . In other parts, FOWLING appertains only to the sport of taking partridges with a NET and SETTING DOG . With FARMERS , and the middling class of rustics, particularly in remote parts, fowling and shooting are synonimous terms....

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FOWLING-BAG, or NET.

FOWLING-BAG, or NET.

—A bag or net is so called, which hangs by the side of a SPORTSMAN , suspended from a leathern belt passing round the neck over his shoulder, for the purpose of receiving such GAME as he may be able " to bag ," or "bring to net ."...

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FOWLING-PIECE

FOWLING-PIECE

—has been generally used to imply a GUN of any description, so far as it was applicable to the purpose of killing GAME , or, in fact, WILD FOWL of any kind. It is, however, now more properly applied to those of five or six feet in the barrel , principally made use of for killing SEA and WATER FOWL , as Wild or Solan Geese , Wild Ducks , Widgeon , Teal , &amp;c....

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FOX

FOX

.—The FOX is that well-known native animal of this country whose instinctive cunning has rendered it proverbial: they are common in most parts of the kingdom, (as well as in Scotland,) but vary so much in size , that a late writer has extended his description to three different and distinct kinds. He says, "There are three varieties of fox with us, differing in form, but not in colour, except the cur FOX , whose tip of the tail is black: they are distinguished by the names of the GREYHOUND FOX ,

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FOX-HUNTING

FOX-HUNTING

—has been for time immemorial a favourite sport with the natives of this kingdom, particularly in the prime of life; the pleasing exercise, and bodily exertion, contributing greatly to the PRESERVATION of HEALTH ; but the fatigue and danger render it but ill-adapted to the AGED , the INFIRM , and the VALETUDINARIAN . The persevering speed and fortitude of the GAME , the constantly improving high mettled excellence of the HOUNDS , the invincible spirit of the HORSES , and the unrestrained ardour

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FREE WARREN

FREE WARREN

.—A FREE WARREN is a term totally distinct from FOREST , CHACE , PARK , MANOR , or WARREN ; it is a franchise derived originally from the Crown ; and the person having a grant of free warren over certain lands, possesses a SOLE RIGHT of pursuing , taking , and killing GAME of every kind within its limits; although there may be no one acre of land his own property through the whole district where he is possessed of this right. There are instances where a variety of circumstances render manorial r

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FRET

FRET

.—The disorder which (in the country) is called by this name, is the FLATULENT CHOLIC , and occasioned from a retention of wind, and a rarefaction of air in the intestinal canal. It is immediately discoverable by the fulness and extreme tension of the carcase, the agonizing pain of the horse, the rumbling of the confined air, the partial and very trifling expulsions of wind, the laboured respiration, frequent groaning, suddenly laying down, and as hastily rising, constant looking back to the fla

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FROG

FROG

,—in HORSES , is the centrical soft kind of horny substance at the bottom of the foot, spreading wide from the heel, having a cleft in the middle, and terminating in a point toward the toe. To the internal parts the lower extremity of the TENDONS are attached, and the FROG is the basis by which their elasticity is supported, and from whence is derived the deceptive reasoning, that the FROG must indispensibly (in action) touch the ground . The frog is subject to a defect, called the FRUSH , or TH

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FROTH

FROTH

.—A HORSE displaying a profusion of FROTH when champing upon the BIT , either in action upon the road , or in the FIELD with HOUNDS , may be considered a distinguishing, and almost invariable sign of both good spirit and sound bottom; for a dull jade , or a HORSE of the sluggish cart breed , is very rarely to be seen with this appearance. It is also no inferior criterion of HEALTH , and may, in general, be considered truly indicative of CONDITION : few, if any, horses of this description flag up

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FRUSH

FRUSH

.—A disorder or defect in the centrical cleft of the FROG , at the bottom of the foot, was formerly so called; but is now more generally known under the denomination of Thrush , which SEE ....

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FUMIGATION

FUMIGATION

—is a most useful PROCESS in all cases where the DISEASES of HORSES particularly affect the HEAD . In recent colds , obstinate coughs , glandular tumefactions under the jaws , STRANGLES , INFLAMMATION of the LUNGS , low fevers, and even in dulness, over-fatigue, or when a horse is off his appetite, and refuses food, it is very frequently of perceptible utility. Horses may be fumigated by boiling ROSEMARY , LAVENDER , MARSHMALLOW LEAVES , and CAMMOMILE FLOWERS , in a few quarts of water over the

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FUNGUS

FUNGUS

—is the too-fast shooting granulations of new flesh during the incarnation of WOUNDS , particularly in HORSES , with whom it is invariably exuberant, and requires some degree of judgment in the suppression: it is too frequently attempted by Roman vitriol , corrosive sublimate , and other caustics; but they are only productive of disappointment, in constituting an eschar upon the surface, and leaving the cure at a more remote and uncertain distance, than before their application. Slight scarifica

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FURNITURE HORSE

FURNITURE HORSE

.—In many parts of the United Kingdom, the SADDLE , BRIDLE , CLOTHS , and every other part appertaining to the body of the horse, passes under the denomination of horse furniture ....

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GALLS, or GALLING

GALLS, or GALLING

.—Lacerations occasioned by the too tight pressure and friction of an uneasy and ill-fitted saddle, or heavy harness, are so called. They are seldom seen with either the judicious or the enlightened; experience having taught both how to appreciate PREVENTION . The prudent SPORTSMAN will never take his horse to the field, nor the humane driver his carriage-horse to the road, till personal examination has convinced him the necessary apparatus is not only firm , but proportionally easy ; and this s

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GALLOP

GALLOP

—is one pace of THE HORSE , well known by that general name; though it will admit of gradational distinctions. A CANTER is the slowest gallop, in which a horse bears most upon his haunches, but lightly on the bit; it is a pace which spirited, good-tempered horses seem to enjoy, and is peculiarly calculated for the accommodation of a lady. A RATING-GALLOP is the increase of action to such pace, as the particular horse may or can go with ease at his rate in common stroke without being exerted to s

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GALLOPADE

GALLOPADE

—is a term in the MILITARY MANEGE ....

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GALLOWAY

GALLOWAY

—is the appellation given to that useful kind of small horse from THIRTEEN to FOURTEEN HANDS high; they are rarely to be seen of exact SYMMETRY , uniform STRENGTH , and adequate ACTION ; but, if well-bred , their qualifications, and endurance of fatigue, exceeds description....

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GAMBLERS

GAMBLERS

—consist of two sets; first, those whose thirst for GAMING , (called PLAY ) is insatiate, and who have PROPERTY to LOSE ; these are GENTLEMEN , who, possessing a refined sense of HONOR themselves, never meanly descend to suspect the INTEGRITY of others . An accurate description of their opponents will be found under the head " Black Legs ," where the practices of " the family " are more fully explained....

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GAME

GAME

—for the preservation of which such a succession of LAWS have been enacted, were, in many of the former preambles to the different ACTS of Parliament , extended to "the Heron , Pigeon , Mallard , Duck , Teal , Widgeon , or any such Fowl ;" but in the present construction, GAME is generally considered to imply no more than the HARE , PHEASANT , PARTRIDGE , HEATH-FOWL , and MOOR GAME , which are the whole of what is intentionally included in the GAME LAWS ; and what persons possessed of certain qu

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GAME COCK

GAME COCK

.—The true-bred GAME COCK is a species of fowl almost peculiar to this country; his natural and instinctive courage will never permit him to yield to an opponent, however he may be superior in WEIGHT and STRENGTH ; but he will, even under those disadvantages, continue to fight till literally cut to pieces . After the loss of eyes , with the body wounded and perforated in every part, when even the use of his legs are gone , and he is no longer able to stand, but lays extended upon the sod , with

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GAMING

GAMING

—is that destructive vice which has annihilated some of the most princely fortunes in this, and, perhaps, in every other kingdom: it is a whirlwind of devastating infatuation, which destroys every thing before it: like the effect of unrestrained fire, it continues its ravages so long as there is a single combustible to feed the flame. The most MAGNIFICENT MANSIONS , the most LORDLY POSSESSIONS , the most MAJESTIC "towering woods," and the most extensive FERTILE VALES , have been in one night swe

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GAMING-HOUSES

GAMING-HOUSES

—are those infamous NOCTURNAL RECEPTACLES of the most abandoned iniquity , where such scenes of villainy are in perpetual practice, that the most fertile pen must be inadequate to even a tolerable representation. These houses in the Metropolis, are, by the SPORTING WORLD , denominated " Hells ;" and so truly are they entitled to that sublime distinction, that the whole FORCE of MAGISTRACY has been most laudably and successfully exerted against them without exception. Houses of this description a

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GAME-KEEPERS

GAME-KEEPERS

—are persons delegated by legal prescription, to provide GAME for the purposes of those by whom they are appointed, to PRESERVE and PROTECT it against a class of adventurers (denominated poachers ) by night, as well as an unfair or improper destruction of it by day. Every LORD or LADY of a MANOR are authorized, by writing under their hands and seals, to empower a GAME-KEEPER to kill within the said manor , any HARE , PHEASANT , PARTRIDGE , or other game. If, however, such game-keeper shall sell

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GAME LAWS

GAME LAWS

.—The laws framed for the PRESERVATION of THE GAME , are, by the different Acts of Parliament , during several successive reigns, become so truly voluminous, and in many instances thought so truly complex, that it is impracticable to reduce any moderate abridgement of the whole within the intentional limits of this Work. But as many of the former Acts (at least many of the clauses in those Acts) though unrepealed, are in practice almost obsolete, it is proposed (divested of legal tautology) to b

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GAMES of ART

GAMES of ART

—are those in which the skill, judgment, and penetration of the player are immediately concerned, and upon which alone his success must entirely depend. In this class are included Billiards , Chess , Draughts , Cricket , Fives , Tennis , Bowls , and some others, as well as a few upon the Cards ; but as the latter are always subject to DECEPTION , and completely subservient to the slipping , sliding , and cutting of the most FAMILIAR FRIENDS , (even in private families,) they are, with propriety,

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GAMES of CHANCE

GAMES of CHANCE

.—Those games are so called, which depend solely upon the turning up of a CARD , or the uncertain " HAZARD of THE DIE ." When fairly played, without any latent deception on one side or the other , they are considered truly equitable between the players, who are then said "to PLAY UPON THE SQUARE ," without a point of advantage, the whole being dependent upon, and decided by, the EFFECT of CHANCE . The celebrated nocturnal game of Hazard , at which such immense property is annually LOST and WON ,

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GANGRENE

GANGRENE

—is a technical term, which in FARRIERY , as in SURGERY , implies the first stage of MORTIFICATION or PUTREFACTION ....

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GASCOIN, or GASKIN

GASCOIN, or GASKIN

,—of a horse, is that part of the hind quarter extending from the stifle (or inferior point of the thigh approaching the belly) to the bend of the hock behind; upon the shape, strength, and uniformity of which, the property, action, and excellence of the horse very much depends. If the GASKINS are wide, and divide below the tail in a curvilinear arch on the inside, with a prominent swell of the muscle on the outside, it is not only indicative of great strength, but adds considerably to the symme

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GATE-NET

GATE-NET

.—A GATE-NET is a principal part of the stock in trade of an expert and experienced POACHER ; and, in respect to HARES , the most destructive nocturnal instrument that can be brought into use. They, at a certain hour in the dead of night, when hares are sure to be at feed, are fixed to the third bar of the gates of such fields as have green wheat , young clover , or any other where (by daily observation) they are known to use; when being fattened to the ground under the lower bar by means of woo

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GAZEHOUND

GAZEHOUND

;—the name by which the species of DOG we now term GREYHOUND was formerly called. With what propriety an animal of almost every colour should be equally denominated grey , does not appear; any more than at what particular period the change in appellation may have taken place. As the pursuit of the GREYHOUND is entirely by sight , and not by scent , it should seem that GAZEHOUND would be the most proper distinction of the two, and that the present is no more than a perversion from the original...

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GELDING

GELDING

—implies a horse divested of his TESTICLES , by which he is deprived of the act of COPULATION , and of farther PROPAGATION . For particulars of the operation, see Castration ....

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GIFT of GOING

GIFT of GOING

—is a phrase from the sublime vocabulary of the horse-dealing fraternity, and implies a horse's possessing a much greater portion of speed in action , particularly in TROTTING , than could well be expected from his shape and external appearance. When a horse is shewn for sale, having little to recommend him, rough in his coat, low in condition, aukward in shape, and without a single point of attraction , if he can scramble along at the rate of twelve or thirteen miles an hour, he is then said to

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GIMCRACK

GIMCRACK

,—the name of a horse who was of great celebrity upon the turf, and for two or three years beat most of his time. He was foaled in 1760; got by Cripple , (a son of the Godolphin Arabian;) dam by Grisewood's Partner , and his pedigree was of the best blood; but being too small for a stallion of eminence, produced no winners of note. He was followed by young Gimcrack , a good horse for GIVE and TAKE PLATES , particularly at four heats....

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GINGER

GINGER

—is an aromatic spicy root, brought to us from the East and West Indies , in a preserved as well as in its natural state. In the former it is used as a stomachic and sweetmeat by the superior orders: in the latter it is common in all the shops, consisting of flat-knotted branches, of which the whitest, and least stringy or fibrous, are the best. It is a very useful ingredient in many compositions for the internal diseases of horses, particularly in the FLATULENT CHOLIC , commonly called FRET . H

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GIGS

GIGS

;—a term almost obsolete for what are now called FLAPS , a kind of flaccid fleshy enlargement on each side a horse's jaw, which, in his mastication, frequently falling between the grinders, is productive of pain, and prevents the horse from eating. If they are long and thin, they may be completely taken off by a pair of scissars, and the wounds washed with a strong solution of alum in water: if they are too fleshy and substantial for this mode of extirpation, they may be slightly scarified with

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GIRTHS

GIRTHS

—are those well-known articles made from woollen web, and used for keeping the saddle in a safe and proper position. These, to prevent GALLING , should be made of ELASTIC , and not the tight wove web, which being more rigid and harsh , is the more likely to LACERATE during the heat and friction of a long chase. Observation should be made that girths are never too short, so as to have the buckle below the pad of the saddle, either on one side or the other; for want of which judicious and sportsma

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GIVE and TAKE PLATES

GIVE and TAKE PLATES

—are those where the HORSES carry WEIGHT according to their HEIGHT , by the regulated standard of four inches to a HAND . The fixed rules for a GIVE and TAKE are, that horses measuring FOURTEEN HANDS , are each to carry nine stone; above or below which height, they are to carry seven pounds, more or less , for every inch they are HIGHER or LOWER than the FOURTEEN HANDS fixed as the criterion.—Example: a horse measuring FOURTEEN HANDS , one inch and a half , will carry nine stone, ten pounds, eig

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GLANDERS

GLANDERS

—is, perhaps, without exception, the most dreadful, and certainly destructive, disease to which the horse is incident. No exertions have been wanting on the part of the most eminent professional men (particularly in France) to discover the means of successfully counteracting the justly-dreaded virulence of this disorder; but hitherto with so little the appearance of progress, that it is almost an invariable custom to render the subject an immediate VICTIM to DEATH , so soon as he is ascertained

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GNAWPOST

GNAWPOST

—was a country PLATE HORSE of some celebrity, winning several for some years in succession. He was bred by Mr. Shaftoe ; was foaled in 1767; and got by Snap out of Miss Cranbourne , who was got by the Godolphin Arabian, and bred by the then great Duke of Cumberland....

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GOLDFINDER

GOLDFINDER

;—the name of one of the molt valuable and successful horses ever bred or trained in this kingdom: he beat nearly every horse of his time, and won almost every stakes he started for. He was bred by Mr. Shaftoe ; foaled in 1764; got by Snap ; dam by Blank ; grand-dam by Regulus , and the six preceding generations by Arabians , Barbs , and Turks , up to the natural Barb mare, constituting one of the richest pedigrees in the annals of RACING BLOOD ....

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GODOLPHIN ARABIAN

GODOLPHIN ARABIAN

—was the property of Lord Godolphin , and produced more capital winners as A STALLION , than any horse that covered before his time in this kingdom. His progeny became equally eminent as stallions, to the whole of which are we principally indebted for the unprecedented eminence and superiority of the various studs so plentifully established in different parts of the country. He was the sire of Cade , Regulus , Blank , Babraham , Bajazet , and a long list of et ceteras . See Barbs ....

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"GONE AWAY!"

"GONE AWAY!"

—is the exhilarating communicative HOLLOA ! from one sportsman to another in STAG or FOX hunting, when the game breaks from large coverts, and goes away ; at which time, if it was not for this friendly rule, invariably observed, those who happen to be up the wind , would be inevitably thrown out , and the hounds have got miles, before the most distant part of the field knew any thing of the matter. To prevent the mortifying probability of which, those nearest the chace and the hounds, instantly

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GORGED

GORGED

;—the common and vulgar term for swelled legs, when their enlarged and distended state has been occasioned more by severe and hard work, than the effect of HUMOURS originating in a fizey or morbid state of the blood. A horse having his back sinews flushed, and legs thickened, so as to go short and stiff in action, but not broken down , is said to be gorged . Having the same appearances from humours, or a viscidity of the blood, he is then said to be foul , and must be relieved by PURGATIVES or D

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GOULARD

GOULARD

.—The article so well known by this name, and so constantly brought into use upon many emergencies, is the EXTRACT of LEAD ; which is prepared by, and may be obtained of, almost every druggist in the kingdom. Its excellent properties are universally admitted as a CORROBORANT , a REPELLENT , a SOLVENT , and an almost infallible remedy in well-proportioned topical applications to inflammations , strains , bruises , or recent tumefactions : but some degree of professional knowledge, and experimenta

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GOURDINESS

GOURDINESS

—is another rustic or provincial term for SWELLED LEGS , but of a different description, implying the kind of dropsical laxity of the SOLIDS , submitting to pressure, and recovering from its indentation when the pressure is removed. This kind of swelling is a gradual approach to the disorder called GREASE , at which it will soon arrive, if not counteracted speedily, by such EVACUANTS and ALTERATIVES as may be thought most applicable to the case....

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GRASS

GRASS

—is that well-known produce of the earth, which is the proper food for horses in a state of NATURE , EASE , and INDOLENCE ; but not of sufficient nutritive property for horses engaged in either SEVERE , LABORIOUS , or ACTIVE exertions. Horses taken up from grass, and put suddenly to work, labour under an immediate and perceptible disquietude; the contents of the intestines are soon evacuated in a STATE of LAXITY , the frame displays a profusion of FOUL and FŒTID PERSPIRATION , the body bespeaks

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GRAVELLED

GRAVELLED

.—A horse is said, by the lower classes, to be GRAVELLED , when broken particles of flints , or small pebbles , are insinuated between the outer SOLE of the FOOT and the WEB of the SHOE . This injury is seldom sustained, but where the shoe is formed too flat upon the inner surface , (without its proper protecting concavity,) when pressing too close, whatever extraneous substance gains admission, is there confined, and, from the stricture, has no possible chance of extrication. The degree of pain

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GREASE

GREASE

.—The GREASE is a disorder particularly affecting the CART or DRAFT HORSES of this country, but is seldom or rarely observed amongst horses of a superior description: its seat is cutaneous, and it first discovers itself by a stagnation of the fluids, and as consequent inflammatory enlargement above and about the fetlock, attended with pain and stiffness, more or less , according to the state of the subject, or the severity of the attack. If proper means are not immediately taken, and judiciously

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GREY

GREY

.—The COLOUR of a HORSE is so called, where dark-coloured or BLACK hairs are proportionally intermixed with WHITE : some of those are beautifully mottled upon the rump, down the hind quarters, and across the gaskins, and are then called DAPPLED GREYS . It is admitted by the old proverb, and verified by all opinions, that "a GOOD horse can never be of a BAD colour:" there is, however, an exception to the adage, in a white or a light grey; for, by laying down with the hind quarter, on one side or

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GREYHOUND

GREYHOUND

.—The particular species of DOG passing under the denomination of greyhound , was formerly called GAZEHOUND , and is at the present day more universally known by the appellation of LONG DOG in many parts of the kingdom. The breed has been at all times carefully cultivated by the lovers of coursing, but has never been brought to so great a degree of enthusiastic perfection, as since the establishment of the different COURSING CLUBS and SOCIETIES in Norfolk, Essex, Berkshire, and the Flixton Wolds

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GRIPES

GRIPES

.—The disorder this term is meant to imply, is more properly distinguished by the appellation of INFLAMMATORY CHOLIC , and is much more painful and dangerous than that species of intestinal complaint known by the name of FLATULENT CHOLIC , or FRET . The inflammatory cholic, or GRIPES , proceeds from a painful obstruction in the intestines, occasioned by an accumulation of indurated excrement, which must be mollified , and removed , before EASE can be obtained. In cases of this kind, no time shou

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GROGGY

GROGGY

—is a knowing term, peculiar to the lower order of stabularian and horse-dealing gentry, and implies a tenderness and defect in action, either from a CHEST or FOOT FOUNDER , or an injury sustained in the back sinews , as mentioned under the head Gorged . Horses of this description, although they come apparently crippled out of the stable, yet, when the circulation is increased by action, and the stiffness gone off as the perspiration comes on, their exertion is incredible, and their endurance of

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GROOM

GROOM

—is the appellation by which a person is known who is a complete and perfect master of every part of stable discipline; if he is not so, it is a prostitution of the word to admit the term; and in any other point of view, he can rank in no other degree than a common stable-boy . The qualifications necessary to form A GROOM of superior excellence, are almost as numerous and distinguishing as those admitted to be requisite for the formation of a MINISTER of STATE : obedience, fidelity, patience, mi

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GROUSE

GROUSE

;—the name of a HORSE who promised much celebrity on the TURF . He was bred by the Duke of Grafton , and was got by Highflyer out of Georgina , who was got by Matchem , and was own sister to Conductor . He was foaled in 1790; and at three years old beat Monkey , Silver , Tick , Æacus , Agamemnon , Black Puss , Edwin , Rally , and Mr. Vernon's filly by Florizel out of Eve , three miles over the Beacon; but soon after falling lame, he became a STALLION in the Duke's possession, and having already

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GROUSE, or RED GAME

GROUSE, or RED GAME

,—that species of game for the protection of which the Legislature has provided, is a native inhabitant of HILLS and MOUNTAINS , difficult of access, and much more common to the remote than the centrical parts of the kingdom. They are beautiful in the variegations of their plumage, but inferior to the PHEASANT (particularly the cock) in both feather and size. They are included with PHEASANTS and PARTRIDGES in every act for the PRESERVATION of GAME ; but differ individually in respect to the time

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GUN

GUN

.—A GUN is that well-known instrument of pleasure used in the destruction of GAME , for the privilege of carrying which, its devotees voluntarily contribute so largely to the exigencies of State, and the support of Government. Fashion , that great centre of fluctuation, has in this, as in almost every thing else, wrought a very considerable change. Guns formerly in use for this purpose, were principally constructed from three feet eight and ten inches, to five and even six feet in the length of

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HACK

HACK

.—Any horse appropriated to every kind of purpose, (and upon which no great estimation or value is placed,) it has been the custom for time immemorial to distinguish by the appellation of HACK . Custom, however, has permitted a slight deviation from a practice of long standing, and A HACK is now generally understood to imply the idea of a hired horse ; that is, a horse the property of a HACKNEY-MAN , JOB or POSTMASTER , who lets out horses by the day , week , or month , and who is obliged to tak

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HACKNEY

HACKNEY

,—in the general acceptation of the word with the SPORTING WORLD , is a horse superior to all others upon the score of UTILITY ; being rendered subservient to every office of exertion, speed, and perseverance, or, in other words, to all the drudgery and labour of his situation, from which his cotemporaries, the RACER , the HUNTER , and the CHARGER , by the imaginary superiority of their qualifications, and pampered appearance, are always exempt . It is the peculiar province of the HACKNEY to car

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HACKNEY-MEN

HACKNEY-MEN

.—Those so called are the proprietors of COACHES , CHAISES , and HORSES , for the accommodation of the public, and of whom may be obtained vehicles of such description for any length of time required. They are subject to a LICENCE ANNUALLY , and various duties upon the different carriages, all which are clearly explained in concise abstracts (called " TAX TABLES ") from the Acts of Parliament upon this particular subject....

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HAIR

HAIR

,—with which the frame of the horse is so completely covered, and more familiarly termed COAT , is, in general, indicative of the good or ill state of the horse; not only in respect to health, but to his CONDITION , for whatever work he may be designed. If the subject is sleek in his coat, with a glossy shining surface, soft and pliable in the skin; not tight upon the ribs, as if firmly adhering to the side; no enlargements upon the lower joints of the legs, nor any profuse and faint perspiratio

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HALTER

HALTER

—is that well-known convenience by which a horse is fastened to the MANGER when confined in a STABLE . Halters are of two kinds; the one prepared of twisted hemp , the other made of LEATHER , having head-stall, throat-straps and buckles, nose-band, &amp;c. and are called double-reined hunting-collars. These are the safest in every respect, and, although the most expensive at first, are proportionally durable, and consequently cheapest in the course of time. Hempen halters are sometimes injur

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HALTER-CAST

HALTER-CAST

.—This is an accident to which horses are constantly liable, and it very frequently happens; but, in general, from the inadvertency of leaving the rein of the halter of too great a length on either one side or the other: for when the horse is lying down, and has occasion (from itching, or some other cause) to rub his neck or head with the hind foot, it is no uncommon thing to have it get entangled in the halter-rein; which encircling the cavity of the heel , renders it impossible for the animal

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HALTING

HALTING

—may be considered a limping , or slight impediment to FREE and EASY ACTION , implying some kind of perceptible defect or disquietude , not amounting to absolute LAMENESS . Whenever this irregularity in motion is first observed, and that the legs do not move in corresponding uniformity, or, in other words, as if they were not fellows , an accurate examination should be immediately made to ascertain the CAUSE , that it may be speedily relieved; upon a very fair presumption, that what might produc

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HAM, HOUGH, or HOCK

HAM, HOUGH, or HOCK

,—is the joint in the center of the hind leg behind; and although so wonderfully united for STRENGTH and ACTION , is nevertheless the seat of serious injuries, as BLOOD and BONE SPAVINS , CURBS , &amp;c. the major part of which originate much more in improper treatment, by short turns, sudden jerks, or twists, upon the road, or in the stable, than by any accidents or fair mode of usage whatever....

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HAMBLETONIAN

HAMBLETONIAN

;—the name of A HORSE whose performances have ranked him in an equal degree of retrospective celebrity with Eclipse , Highflyer , Diomed , and the most famous runners of the past or present day. He was bred by Mr. Hutchinson , of Skipton, near York, and foaled in 1792; was got by King Fergus ; dam by Highflyer ; grand-dam by Matchem .—1795. May 5, when three years old, he won a stakes of fifteen guineas each, over Hambleton, (five subscribers,) beating Sober Robin , Tarquin , and another. At Yor

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HAND

HAND

—is the term for a mode of measurement by which the height of A HORSE is ascertained. A HAND (so called originally from its breadth) is four inches ; three hands is consequently one foot; and A HORSE OF FIFTEEN HANDS is exactly five feet high ; and so above or below in proportion; as thirteen hands three inches; fourteen hands and a half; or fifteen hands three inches and a quarter; as the measure may be. This, at the entrance of horses for GIVE and take plates , is regulated to a most scrupulou

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HANDICAP

HANDICAP

—is a sporting term, applicable to either MATCH , PLATE , or SWEEPSTAKES , in the following way: A, B, and C, put an equal sum into a hat. C, who is the handicapper, makes a match for A and B, who, when they have perused it, put their hands into their pockets, and draw them out closed; then they open them together, and if both have money in their hands, the match is confirmed; if neither have money, it is no match: in either of these cases, the handicapper C draws all the money out of the hat: b

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HANDING

HANDING

—is sometimes used to express the HANDING of a COCK during his battle in the pit. It is, however, considered merely provincial, and peculiar only to some particular parts of the country; the hander of the cocks being now more generally known by the denomination of a SETTER-TO .—See Cockpit Royal ....

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HANDLING

HANDLING

,—a term applied by COCKERS to the judicious handling of a COCK , when brought up from his walk , to ascertain whether he is in proper condition to be placed in the PENS , and prepared to fight in either the MAIN BATTLES , or the byes . This is done by a particular mode of taking the girt of the body by grasp, to discover the shape and substance, the bone, the probable strength, as well as the firmness or flaccidity of the flesh; upon the aggregate of which so much depends, that in proportion to

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HARBOUR

HARBOUR

—is a sporting term, applicable solely to DEER , and used only in STAG HUNTING ; when going to covert, and drawing for an out-lying deer; upon finding, it is customary to say, We UNHARBOUR a stag, (or hind.) As with HARRIERS , We find or start a HARE ; or with fox hounds , We unkennel a FOX ....

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HARE

HARE

.—This small, harmless, inoffensive animal affords a greater diversity of sport in the field, and a greater degree of luxurious entertainment upon the table, than any species of GAME in this, or, probably, in any other country. The form, shape, and make of the HARE is too universally known to require description; but the most curious naturalists describe, and affect to believe, there are four kinds of hares in different parts of the kingdom. The fact is not so; the species is strictly the same;

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HARE-HUNTING

HARE-HUNTING

—is a well-known sport, of very ancient and enthusiastic enjoyment, reported, by the most celebrated ANTIQUARIES , to have been established more than two thousand years before the Christian æra . Various opinions have been occasionally promulgated, and perseveringly supported, (by cynical rigidity, and religious severity,) upon the "cruelty of the chase;" which, however, is now never likely to be shaken in either theory or practice , as to almost every PACK OF HOUNDS in the kingdom there are cle

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HARE NETS

HARE NETS

—are of two sorts, one of which will be found described under the head " Gate-nets ;" the other are called PURSE-NETS , and are exactly in the form of cabbage-nets, but of larger and stronger construction. These occasionally afford collateral aid to the former; for being fixed at the different meuses (either in hedges, or to paling) where HARES are expected to pass, and the ground being scoured by a mute lurcher , as there described, the destruction is certain. These nets are the nocturnal engin

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"HARK FORWARD!"

"HARK FORWARD!"

—is a sporting exclamation, well known in the practice of the field, and affords to every distant hearer, authentic information, that the hounds are a-head , and going on with the chase. It sometimes happens, that, in very large and thick coverts, no man or horse existing can be in with the hounds; at which times (particularly in stormy weather) recourse must be had to every means for general accommodation. The best sportsmen are often thrown out for miles , and not unfrequently for the day , by

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HARE-PIPES

HARE-PIPES

—were instruments so curiously constructed, to imitate the whining whimper of A HARE , that, being formerly found a very destructive nocturnal engine in attracting the attention of hares, and bringing them within the certain possession of the POACHER , their use was prohibited (by particular specification) in every Act of Parliament for the preservation of game, from the reign of Richard the Second, to the present time; although it is natural to conclude, there is not now such an article to be s

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HARRIERS

HARRIERS

—are the species of hound appropriated solely to the pursuit of the HARE , and from thence derived their present appellation. The breeding experiments so long made, and the various crosses so repeatedly tried, by the best judges in the kingdom, seem at length to have centered between the old southern and the dwarf fox hound. Mr. Beckford , whose "Thoughts" no sensible man, or judicious sportsman, will presume to dispute, was entirely of this opinion, and proved it by his practice; for he says, "

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HART

HART

—is the sporting term synonimous with Stag , (which SEE ,) and was, in all forest laws and records, constantly in use to signify the same. At present, however, it is considered almost obsolete, and never so expressed in sporting report, or conversation....

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HART ROYAL

HART ROYAL

.—A stag hunted by KING or QUEEN , obtaining his perfect liberty by beating the hounds, was formerly called a hart royal; and proclamation was immediately made, in the towns and villages of the neighbourhood where he was lost, that he should not be molested, or his life attempted by any farther pursuit; but that he should continue in a state of unrestrained freedom, with power to return to the FOREST or CHACE from whence he was taken at his OWN FREE WILL . This ceremony is, however, discontinued

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HAUNCH and HIP

HAUNCH and HIP

—of a horse, have been hitherto (but not with strict propriety) used in a similar sense: nice observers might say one begins where the other ends, or that one immediately succeeds the other. The haunch is that part of the hind quarter extending from the point of the hip-bone, down the thigh to the hock; but as it is a part well known, and but little subject to partial disease or accident, it lays claim to no particular description. The term of "putting a horse upon his haunches," implies the mak

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HAUNCH of VENISON

HAUNCH of VENISON

—implies the hind quarter of a FALLOW DEER , (either buck or doe,) cut in a particular form for the table. The hind quarter of a STAG , or HIND , also passes under the same denomination; but it is more applicable to form a distinction, and call the former a haunch of venison; the latter, a haunch of red deer....

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HAW

HAW

.—The haw is that cartilaginous part of a horse's eye, plainly perceptible at the inner corner next the forehead, which internally constitutes a circular groove for the easier acceleration of the eye in its orbit. When confined within its natural and proper sphere, it is but just in sight, when taking a front view of the horse; but when it has acquired a preternatural degree of enlargement, it protrudes over part of the orb, partially obstructs the sight, particularly in that direction, and cons

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HAWKS

HAWKS

,—as birds of prey, are divided into two sorts, called long and short winged hawks: of the former there are ten, and of the latter eight; but their names, and particular description, is so remote from the language and manners of the present time, and their use so nearly obsolete, that the least animadversion would prove entirely superfluous....

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HAWKING

HAWKING

—was some centuries since a sport of much fashion and celebrity; the HAWKS being as regularly broke and trained to the pursuit and taking of game, as are the best SETTERS and POINTERS of the present day. It is, however, so completely grown into disuse, and buried in oblivion, that there does not appear the least glimmering of its ever attaining a chance of SPORTING resurrection....

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HAY

HAY

—is the well-known article of grass, cut in its most luxuriant and nutritious state during the months of June and July ; when the succulent parts, tending most to putrefaction, being extracted by the powerful rays of the sun, it acquires (if the season should prove dry, and favourable for the operation) a degree of fragrancy nearly equal to a collection of aromatic herbs. Hay , in this state, is a most attracting sort of ALIMENT to horses of every description, and is so truly grateful to the app

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HAYS

HAYS

—are a particular kind of nets for taking RABBITS and HARES , the use of which are proscribed in almost every Act to be found in the penal statutes for the PRESERVATION of GAME . They are made from sixty to one hundred and twenty feet long, and six feet deep; constituting the most destructive engine of any ever yet invented to strip a country , by the mode in which they are used. They are only in the possession of POACHERS of the first magnitude, (in the neighbourhoods of PARKS , HARE WARRENS ,

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HAYWARD

HAYWARD

—is a manorial parochial officer, appointed to preserve the privileges, and protect the rights, immunities, and cattle, of those who are entitled to commonage of certain lands, wastes, &amp;c. He derives from his appointment, authority to drive his district at stated periods, well known in its vicinity; to impound strays, and to prevent nuisances of diseased cattle; or any other impropriety of cattle breaking bounds, and destroying fences, of which it comes within the intent of his office to

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HAZARD

HAZARD

—is, beyond a doubt, the most fashionable and fascinating GAME ever yet invented for the expeditious and instantaneous transfer of immense sums from one hand to another. It is a GAME of CHANCE ; and, when fairly played, is the FAIREST upon which a stake can possibly be made, from one guinea to a THOUSAND , or to any amount whatever; the winning or losing of which is decided with so much rapidity, that the adventurer can never be more than a few moments in suspense , although he may be many years

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HEAD

HEAD

.—The correct formation of a horse's head is so indispensibly necessary to the striking symmetry and corresponding uniformity of the whole, that its make should never be inadvertently overlooked in a hasty purchase. The head, the crest, the curve of the neck, and the entire of the forehand, are what may be termed the predominant features, or distinguishing traits, which alone seen , hold forth, in general, a tolerably just idea of what may be expected to follow. In the present state of equestria

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HEAD, pain in

HEAD, pain in

.—Horses, it is supposed and admitted, may be subject to pains in the head; and that such pains may proceed from causes it is impossible to explore. As, therefore, every attempt at definition must rest upon conjecture, it is evidently better not to advance opinions founded upon uncertainty, by which many may be misled , none either INSTRUCTED or ENTERTAINED . For symptoms, see Ears ....

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HEAD of a DEER

HEAD of a DEER

. See Antlers ....

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HEAD-STALL

HEAD-STALL

—is the part of a caveson, bridle, or hunting-rein halter, which passes round, and on each side the head of the horse, and to which the reins of either are affixed, for use in the field or on the road, and for safety in the stable....

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HEATH-FOWL

HEATH-FOWL

—are a species of GROUSE , (passing under the denomination of BLACK GAME ,) of which there are different sorts, individually expressed in the various acts of successive Parliaments for the preservation of the game; as " GROUSE , HEATH-COCK , MOOR-GAME , or any such fowl." To prevent the general destruction that must evidently follow, if game of this description was pursued and taken at all seasons of the year without restraint, the Legislature has wisely provided a remedy by the following prohib

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HEAVIER

HEAVIER

.—A STAG deprived of his testicles by CASTRATION , is then called a HEAVIER , which operation is occasionally performed, that a supply may not be wanting for the CHASE during the time of rutting ; in which the STAG is perpetually ranging from one HIND to another, for three weeks or longer; not allowing himself the comforts of FOOD , SLEEP , or REST . Towards the termination he becomes lean, languid, and dejected; when, having executed the task prescribed by Nature , he withdraws himself from soc

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HEAVY in HAND

HEAVY in HAND

.—A horse is said to be heavy in hand, when, from want of spirit, he goes sluggishly on, bearing his whole weight upon the BIT ; as if the hand of the rider alone prevented his pitching upon his head; and this to a good horseman is one of the most unpleasing defects a HORSE can possess. Horses of this description should be rode in a Weymouth bridle, (see Bit ,) and constantly made to feel the CURB rein; when at the same moment, that useful monitor the spur should be brought into brisk and sudden

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HEELS

HEELS

.—The heels of a horse, critically speaking, imply only that part of the hoof which is the very reverse of the toe; seated behind, and forming the back of the foot, across the widest end of the frog, extending from one point of the heel to the other. Custom has, however, so far extended both the idea and the expression, that in the present general acceptation of the word, it is admitted to include the feet as high as the fetlock-joint; so that the heels are subject to accidents, inconveniencies,

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HEELS NARROW

HEELS NARROW

—is a defect, or inconvenience, to which HORSES are constantly subject; but they are produced much more by the officious obtrusions of ART , than any deficiency in the original formation of NATURE . Horses with narrow heels are generally those who have had very little attention paid to the state of the feet, by either MASTER or man , during the operation of SHOEING ; and where the journeyman smith too often, from absolute idleness, affixes a shoe too narrow to the FOOT , and then, to increase th

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HEELER

HEELER

—is the person who affixes the deadly weapon called A SPUR (made of either steel or silver) to the heel of a GAME COCK , when taken from the pen previous to his being carried to the COCK-PIT to fight his battle. A hard-hitting cock, who is perpetually fighting with effect, and gives his adversary no time to stand still, or look about him, is likewise called A HEELER ....

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HELPS, or AIDS

HELPS, or AIDS

,—are terms appertaining solely to the MANEGE and RIDING-SCHOOL , little known elsewhere, and totally unconnected with the sports of the field. Professors technically describe seven helps necessary to complete the lesson given to a horse; as the VOICE , WHIP , BIT , CALVES of the LEGS , the STIRRUPS , the SPUR , and the GROUND ....

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HEROD

HEROD

,—commonly called King Herod , was the first horse of his time as A RACER , and afterwards as A STALLION . He was bred by the then Duke of Cumberland , and got by Tartar out of Cypron , who was got by Blaze ; he was foaled in 1758, and, after beating every horse that could be brought against him at four, five, and six years old, he became a stallion of the first celebrity, and transmitted a greater progeny to posterity, than any other horse in the whole annals of sporting, unless Eclipse and Hig

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HIDEBOUND

HIDEBOUND

—is an impoverished state of the frame and system to which horses are frequently reduced, and partakes much more of neglect in food and stable discipline, than of constitutional defect, or acquired disease. A horse said to be HIDEBOUND has the appearance of being emaciated; the coat is of a dingy variegated hue, staring different ways, with a scurfy dust underneath; the skin is of an unpliable rigidity, seeming to adhere closely to the internal parts, denoting a deficiency of the fluids, an obst

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HIGHFLYER

HIGHFLYER

—was the name of a late celebrated HORSE , that, taken "for all in all," (as a RACER and a STALLION ,) far exceeded any other ever known in this kingdom. He was foaled in 1774; was got by Herod out of Rachel , who was got by Blank ; her dam by Regulus , &amp;c. He was purchased of the breeder, when a colt rising two years old, by the late Lord Bolingbroke , and was then thought to be getting too large and unpromising for any capital performances upon the turf. It was, however, observed by th

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HIND

HIND

—is the female of the species called RED DEER , the male of which is termed A STAG : the offspring of both is, during its first year, called A CALF ; and these only are the deer hunted by the King's stag-hounds ....

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HIP-SHOT

HIP-SHOT

.—The DEFECT so termed is an injury frequently sustained in the HIP JOINT , but not always with the same degree of severity. It is a ligamentary twist, or distortion, by which the junction of the bones is materially affected, but not amounting to absolute DISLOCATION ; although it may proceed from a variety of causes, in sudden shocks from the different prominences of, or cavities in , an uneven and irregular pavement; BLOWS , STRAINS , or WRENCHES , (in drawing heavy loads,) as well as by SLIDI

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HOCK, or HOUGH

HOCK, or HOUGH

.—The joint of the leg behind , corresponding with the knee before , is so called. Its office, in sustaining the principal weight, and various turns of the body, renders it liable to injuries, which, when they happen, are not unfrequently both severe and permanent. Bone spavins , BLOOD SPAVINS , and CURBS , are of this description....

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HOLD

HOLD

—is a term of trifling import, yet, as it appertains to the important act of propagation between the HORSE and the MARE , its emphatic signification cannot be omitted. When a mare has taken the horse, that is, when copulation is completed, a doubt generally arises, whether the MARE will hold ; that is, whether she sufficiently retains the male semen to constitute CONCEPTION . The mare being brought to the horse on the ninth day, from the first time of covering, if she again receives the horse, t

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HOOF

HOOF

.—The hoof of a horse is that hard and horny substance at the lower extremity of the legs, coming into contact with the ground, and upon which are placed shoes, made of iron, for the preservation of the feet. The hoof, to be perfect and uniform, should nearly circumscribe five eighths of a circle, with a transverse line from one point of the heel to the other, as if a segment of three eighths was taken away; in addition to which form, it should be solid in substance, smooth to the hand, and free

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HOOF-BOUND

HOOF-BOUND

.—See Compression and Heels Narrow ....

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HORSE

HORSE

—is the name of the most beautiful, the most useful, and the most valuable, animal, this or any other nation has to boast: the majestic extent of his formation, the graceful ease of every motion, the immensity of his strength, the smooth and glossy surface of his skin, the pliability of his temper, and, above every other consideration, his rapidity of action, and general utility, render him highly worthy the care, attention, and pecuniary estimation he is now held in from one extremity of the ea

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HORSE-DEALERS

HORSE-DEALERS

—are persons who derive their subsistence, and obtain a livelihood, by buying and selling of horses only; and these were become so numerous in both town and country, that, either to restrain the number, or to render the occupation proportionally serviceable to the exigencies of the State, the following duties have been imposed. Every Person exercising the trade or business of a HORSE-DEALER , must pay ANNUALLY , if within London, Westminster, the Parishes of St. Mary-le-Bone, and St. Pancras, in

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HORSEMANSHIP

HORSEMANSHIP

—is the act of riding with ease, grace, and fortitude. It may be taken in two points of view; as those who, self-taught, become proficients equally with those who derive instruction from the SCHOOLS , of which there are many of established celebrity. Doubts, however, have arisen, and opposite opinions have been supported, whether the sportsman who has acquired the art from nature, habit, and practice, is not, in general, a more easy, graceful, expert, and courageous horseman, than the major part

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HORSE-SHOE

HORSE-SHOE

—is a plate of iron mechanically constructed for the preservation of the foot, and formed of different sizes and thickness, according to the substance, weight, and work, of the horse for whom it is made. See Shoeing and Smith ....

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HORSE-RACING

HORSE-RACING

—has been a favorite sport with the superior classes for many centuries, but never arrived at any degree of local celebrity till the reign of Charles the Second ; who, entering into the spirit of the TURF , and becoming personally present with the full splendor of his court, then laid the foundation of the meetings at Newmarket , which are now become so justly eminent, and where RACING has long since attained the full zenith of perfection. This sport during so many years, had undergone a variety

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HOUGH-BONY

HOUGH-BONY

—was a term formerly used to signify an enlargement of the cap of a horse's hock, whether it was only a thickening of the integument, generally termed a callosity, or an ossification just below it. The phrase, however, is now considered entirely obsolete; and the distinction in those defects much better understood by the appellation of BLOOD SPAVIN , BONE SPAVIN , or CURB , as the case may happen to be....

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HOUNDS

HOUNDS

—are the well-known objects of SPORTING ATTRACTION from one extremity of the kingdom to another; possessing within themselves a fascinating power, or exhilarating property, to which all liberal minds, of congenial sensibility, become imperceptibly and irresistibly subdued; forming that kind of inexplicable temptation, that indescribable vibration of pleasure upon human irritability, that none but those of the most stoical apathy, the greatest mental fortitude, or personal self-denial, can summon

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HOUZING

HOUZING

.—The houzing of a horse is a part of military paraphernalia appertaining to officers of cavalry in general, and the privates of the King's horse guards in particular; consisting of scarlet trappings ornamented with gold lace, fringe, and some part of the insignia of the crown. They are fastened to the hinder part of the saddle, and suspended from the loins, so as to cover the flanks, and a part of the hind-quarters on each side. General and FIELD OFFICERS have their houzings principally manufac

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HUMOURS

HUMOURS

.—All chronic disorders in the horse, arising from an impure state of the blood, are with the inferior classes in general denominated " HUMOURS ;" as a concise mode of avoiding scientific investigation, or medical ambiguity, and bringing the case immediately home, as they think, to every comprehension. With people of the description alluded to (whether SMITHS , FARRIERS , COACHMEN , or GROOMS ) the word humours is conceived so wonderfully comprehensive, that it is by them supposed to convey an i

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HUMBLES

HUMBLES

.—The articles so called are some of the internal trimmings obtained in breaking up a DEER , which are always a perquisite of the keeper....

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HUNTER

HUNTER

.—A hunter, in its strictest implied signification with the SPORTING WORLD , is a horse or mare of superior description and qualifications, appropriated to no other purpose whatever than the enjoyment of the chase. As it is the highest ambition of every SPORTSMAN to be in possession of a HUNTER , numbers are so called, who are by no means entitled to that distinction. Various opinions are entertained respecting the more minute properties of a horse destined to the particular purposes of the fiel

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HUNTING

HUNTING

,—in its general sense, implies the pleasure of the SPORT at LARGE , without specifying any particular kind of CHASE ; of which there are three, and equally well known under the different distinctions of STAG-HUNTING , FOX-HUNTING , and HARE-HUNTING . A minor kind of sport, called OTTER HUNTING , might formerly have been said to constitute a fourth ; but it is at present so little known, (and much less practised,) that, like HAWKING , it seems nearly buried in oblivion, and promises very little

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HUNTING-CAP

HUNTING-CAP

—is a cap made of leather, and covered with black velvet, fitting close to the head behind, and having a semicircular peak before, for the protection of the face in case of falls, as well as in passing through strong coverts during the chase. In the sporting world it is termed A DASHER , and is supposed to confirm a generally received opinion, that the wearer never swerves from any difficulty that may occur, or refuses any LEAP in the field, but takes them all in stroke ....

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HUNTING-WHIP

HUNTING-WHIP

.—The whip so called, is of different lengths in the handle or stock; having at one end a long thong and lash, to assist occasionally in managing the hounds; and at the other, a HOOK , HAMMER , or CLAW , for the purpose of holding or opening gates....

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HUNTSMAN

HUNTSMAN

.—The huntsman is a person whose entire business it is to superintend every department of a hunting establishment, as well as to hunt the hounds. As it is an office of considerable trust and responsibility, so it requires no inconsiderable share of those qualifications which constitute some part of the approach to human perfection. It is indispensibly necessary he should be possessed of a comprehensive mind, a clear head, and humane heart; of affable and easy manners; not prone to peevish petula

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HURLE (or whirl) BONE

HURLE (or whirl) BONE

—is situate in the centrical part of the hind-quarter, midway between the hip-bone and the gaskin, and is more known now by the appellation of ROUND-BONE , than the former, which is almost obsolete, unless in particular country districts. Notwithstanding the singular strength of its formation, and peculiar junction with the lower extremity of the hip-bone, it is liable to injury from sudden turns or twists in too confined a space, and should be the more particularly guarded against; as being dee

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ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

TAPLIN, VETERINARY SURGEON, AUTHOR OF The Gentleman's Stable Directory ; (2 VOLS. ) "A Compendium of Farriery," and "Multum in Parvo;" REMOVED FROM EDGEWARE ROAD, TO SLOANE SQUARE , BEGS to make his most grateful Acknowledgements to those Noblemen and Gentlemen, who have continued to honour him with their Patronage during the fourteen years he has been energetically employed in endeavouring to promote a Reform in the former cruel and erroneous System of Farriery. It is the greatest ambition of h

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THE SPORTING DICTIONARY, AND RURAL REPOSITORY OF GENERAL INFORMATION UPON EVERY SUBJECT APPERTAINING TO THE SPORTS OF THE FIELD.

THE SPORTING DICTIONARY, AND RURAL REPOSITORY OF GENERAL INFORMATION UPON EVERY SUBJECT APPERTAINING TO THE SPORTS OF THE FIELD.

INSCRIBED TO THE RIGHT HONOURABLE THE EARL OF SANDWICH, Master of His Majesty's Stag Hounds . BY WILLIAM TAPLIN, Author of the Gentleman's Stable Directory . IN TWO VOLUMES. VOL. II. LONDON. Printed by Thomas Maiden, Sherbourn-Lane, FOR VERNOR AND HOOD, LONGMAN AND REES, J. SCATCHERD, J. WALKER, AND J. HARRIS. 1803. INSCRIBED TO THE RIGHT HONOURABLE THE EARL OF SANDWICH, Master of His Majesty's Stag Hounds . BY WILLIAM TAPLIN, Author of the Gentleman's Stable Directory . IN TWO VOLUMES. VOL. II.

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Jardon

Jardon

—is a term but little used in the present improved state of FARRIERY , and but little known, except to the few remaining practitioners of the old school, who are gradually becoming almost as obsolete as the word itself. A jardon was the name given to any callous enlargement on the outside of either hock, proceeding from blows, or by kicks from other horses; although they more frequently arise from sudden turns or twists in too short a compass, or being too violently thrown upon their haunches in

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JAUNDICE

JAUNDICE

.—The jaundice is a disorder to which quadrupeds are subject as well as the human species; and notwithstanding the difference in the formation of each, it originates in a similar cause with one as with the other. When HORSES are attacked with it, they are said to have the YELLOWS ; which name it also goes by with farmers and country practitioners, when it is observed to make its appearance among what they term "the cow cattle." It proceeds from a partial and imperfect secretion, or temporary obs

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JAWS Knotted.

JAWS Knotted.

—Tumefactions under the jaws of horses, for want of a more technical or scientific definition, gave rise to the sublime term of knotted jaws ; which, however, tends to no distinction, or to any particular description; although tumors may be frequently found there of different kinds, produced by, or arising from, many different causes. Temporary tumefactions of the glands may originate in COLD , and sometimes as suddenly disappear upon a perfect recovery from the cause. Inflammatory tumors form t

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IMPOSTHUME

IMPOSTHUME

.—An imposthume is that kind of inflammatory enlargement, or swelling, which terminates in a formation of matter, produced by an effort of Nature to relieve herself from some offending morbidity under which she labours. Its progress will be found under the head Abscess , with which it is synonymous, and where the danger of attempting repulsion is fully explained....

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IMPERFECTIONS

IMPERFECTIONS

.—The term, so far as it is applied to horses, implies little more than what is to be seen under the different heads of Blemishes and Defects . A horse may be very found, handsome, and valuable, yet he may have imperfections not arising from, or originating in, blemishes ; as well as not amounting to what is meant to be conveyed by the idea of defects . Imperfections may be considered as slight drawbacks upon excellence, which, although they do not very considerably reduce the intrinsic value of

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INJECTIONS

INJECTIONS

.—Many medical solutions and lotions are so called; though the word more properly applies only to such compositions as are prepared solely for the purpose of being conveyed by means of an instrument, called a long-necked syringe, (formed of either ivory or pewter,) into such remote cavities, or sinuses, as may be formed by accident, imposthume, or disease, in any part of the body....

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INTERFERE

INTERFERE

.—A horse was formerly said to interfere, when one fetlock-joint received an injury in action, by a cut or blow from the foot of the other leg. The term, however, is completely out of use; and a horse subject to this defect is now said to cut. See Cutting ....

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JOCKEY

JOCKEY

.—This term, in its particular and most confined signification, implies the person who actually rides a horse for PLATE , MATCH , SUBSCRIPTION , SWEEPSTAKES , or any other PRIZE ; but custom and provincial forms have been productive of local deviations. To say in one district, that any man is " a good jockey ," means no more, than that he is a good HORSEMAN . In another, to say he is "quite A JOCKEY ," is to communicate an idea, that he is very little, if any , better than a swindler, and exceed

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JOCKEY CLUB

JOCKEY CLUB

—is a sporting establishment of the higher order, originally instituted, and still held, at Newmarket , composed of noblemen, gentlemen, and the most distinguished sporting characters in the kingdom, who are elected by ballot, for the better exclusion of such as may be thought improper persons to be admitted members of so honorable and eminent a society. The Jockey Club, in their collective capacity, are considered the only supreme court to which any SPORTING APPEAL can be made; and their award

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JOCKEYSHIP

JOCKEYSHIP

—is a term sometimes used in a metaphorical sense, alluding to the dealings of individuals, where one, by a superior degree of knowledge, cunning, artifice, or chicanery, obtains in a bargain considerable advantage over the other. Its principal signification, however, in its literal meaning, and frequent use, applies more particularly to the peculiar excellence, or personal ability, of JOCKIES , (alias riders,) whose sole avocation it is to train and ride horses for the different PLATES and PRIZ

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JOHN BULL

JOHN BULL

,—the name of a horse of much celebrity both as a RACER and a STALLION ; having been deemed, by the best judges, a horse of the greatest strength, and the most beautiful and corresponding symmetry, ever produced in this kingdom. He was bred by the late Lord Grosvenor ; foaled in 1789; got by Fortitude , dam (Xantippe) by Eclipse; her dam (Grecian Princess) by Williams's Forester , &amp;c. &amp;c. Monday, in the Craven Newmarket Meeting, 1792, when three years old, he won the great produc

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JOHNNY

JOHNNY

—was the first horse of his year, and then esteemed the best in England. He was bred by Lord Clermont , and foaled in 1769; was got by Matchem , dam by Babraham, grand-dam by Partner, great grand-dam by Bloody Buttocks, great, great grand-dam by Greyhound, out of Brocklesby Betty....

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JOHNNY

JOHNNY

,—a horse of more recent date, and of a different blood, was the property of Mr. Durand , and proved a country plate horse of some celebrity. He was got by King Fergus , dam by Justice , and was foaled in 1794. At three years old he won a fifty pound plate at Alfriston, and two fifties at Egham. The year following he won 50l. at Ascot, beating Ploughator and Dispute . 50l. at Lewes, beating Greyhound and Outcast . 50l. at Canterbury, beating Doubtful , Ploughator , Quietus , and Ratafia . 50l. a

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JOINTS

JOINTS

.—The joints of horses are subject to rheumatic pains and affections, in some proportional degree with those of the human species, and require professional judgment to discriminate between what are really so, and what may proceed from other causes. Strict attention, and accurate observation, have clearly ascertained and established the fact, that horses are frequently attacked with, and labour under, a CHRONIC RHEUMATISM , which is as frequently treated like, and mistaken for, a confirmed lamene

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JOURNEY

JOURNEY

.—Journeys are, from various motives, very differently undertaken, and by different degrees of people, according to their various situations, or peculiar avocations, as actuated by the state of their private concerns; whether influenced by a love of pleasure, the pursuit of novelty, prompted by business, or urged by necessity. Amidst which infinity of travellers, there are thousands, particularly in the metropolis, who know nothing of the management of the very valuable and useful companion, upo

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ITCHING

ITCHING

.—Horses are sometimes observed to labor under a severe itching, or internal irritation, which keeps them in a kind of perpetual disquietude; biting such parts as they can get at with the mouth, and rubbing those more remote against such parts of the stall as are most convenient, by which the hair is frequently rubbed off, and the skin excoriated. In cases of this description, the blood does not possess a proper or just equalization of the component parts indispensibly necessary to the standard

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JUGGED

JUGGED

—is a professional or technical term with the horse-dealing and stabularian fraternity; and implies a horse's having tumefactions, indurated or inflammatory, under the jaws. But when used in a more serious and emphatic sense among themselves, it is to convey an idea, that the horse said to be jugged , is infected with the GLANDERS ....

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JUSTICE

JUSTICE

—was a horse of considerable note both as a RUNNER and a STALLION : he was bred by the late Lord Grosvenor ; was foaled in 1774; got by Herod , out of Curiosity , (who was got by Snap ,) her dam by Regulus , and grand-dam by Bartlet's Childers . Without obtaining any distinguished celebrity, he for many years maintained his ground as a stallion above mediocrity, and produced some tolerable racers: amongst the best of which were Æacus , Mentor , Minos , Rhadamanthus , Dedalus , and Midnight ....

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KEEPERS

KEEPERS

—are of different kinds, acting under different appointments, as servants of the Crown, or of individuals. There are FOREST -keepers, PARK -keepers, and GAME -keepers, whose employments are distinct and separate from each other. It is the province of the first to protect and superintend the DEER in any one of his Majesty's forests, to which he is appointed, and to become a principal instrument of enforcing the laws enacted for its preservation, against depredators of every description. Park -kee

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KENNEL

KENNEL

—is the place where hounds are kept; upon the judicious construction of which, their health, safety, and preservation, are known greatly to depend. Those who take to, or become possessed of, KENNELS ready built, frequently continue them in the form they fall into their hands; but such as encounter the expence of new erections, cannot do better than take a previous survey of the most approved plans; amongst which the Duke of Bedford's , at Wooburn Abby; the Duke of Richmond's , at Goodwood, in Su

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KENNEL

KENNEL

—is a sporting term for the spot in which a FOX deposits himself after his nocturnal depredations, and to which he retires about the dawn of day: being found by the hounds in drawing covert, he is then said to be unkennelled , and the chase begins. When safe in some burrow , or hole , below the surface, he is then said to lie at EARTH ....

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KIBES

KIBES

,—in horses, are the cracks which appear in the HEELS during the severity of the winter season, and are much more the consequence of neglect , or a want of knowledge in the stable discipline, than the effect produced by changes in the weather; which may in general be counteracted by the means in constant practice with those who proceed systematically, and take the same care of their horses, as prudence prompts them to take of themselves. They proceed mostly from being left with wet legs, which,

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KIDNEYS

KIDNEYS

.—The horse is always liable to local injuries, as well as permanent disorders, of these parts. Inflammation and ulceration are also produced by different means: some proceed from external causes, as BRUISES and BLOWS ; being too heavily laden with burdens, or drawing too heavy weights; both which should be equally attended to, and guarded against. The distinguishing symptoms of diseased KIDNIES , are a palpable weakness of the hind part of the back and loins , a painful sinking of those parts u

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KILLING GAME

KILLING GAME

.—The privilege of KILLING GAME (in any way whatever) is now dependent upon a two-fold qualification; in want of BOTH which, the transgressor renders himself liable to a DOUBLE , and in want of either , to a single penalty; which, divested of technical ambiguity, and the complicated abstrusity of the GAME LAWS in their present extended state, is reduced to the following state of simplification, adapted to every comprehension. In different Acts of Parliament during the reigns of James the First,

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KINDLE

KINDLE

.—A doe rabbit is said to KINDLE when she brings forth her young....

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KING FERGUS

KING FERGUS

,—the name of a horse bred by the late Colonel O'Kelly ; he was foaled in 1775; was got by Eclipse , dam (Tuting's Polly) by Black and all Black , grand-dam by Tartar , great grand-dam by Old Starling . He was of great celebrity, and continued for many years a stallion of the first eminence. He was the sire of a great number of good racers, amongst which were those celebrated runners Hambletonian , Overton , Beningbrough , Sir Solomon , Warter , Johnny (Durand's,) Garswood , &amp;c. &amp

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KING'S HOUNDS

KING'S HOUNDS

.—His Majesty's STAG HOUNDS pass under this denomination, as a part of the royal establishment continued in every successive reign without variation. The kennel in which they are kept is situate near the RACE COURSE upon Ascot Heath ; at the distance of two short miles from which is Swinley Lodge , the official residence of the Master of the Stag Hounds , an appointment seldom conferred but upon one of the peerage, and is considered an office of honor, with a salary of 2000 l. per annum . The pr

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KING'S PLATE

KING'S PLATE

.—Those called King's Plates , are a free gift from his Majesty of 100 guineas each; and it is believed were originally granted as a means of exciting such a degree of emulation, as would probably tend to national advantage, by improving the breed of horses in general; as well as to afford an annual pecuniary advantage (by an additional influx of company) to such CITIES and TOWNS as enjoy the royal favour. Newmarket , as the superior spot of sporting celebrity, is particularly honoured, having t

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KNEE of a HORSE

KNEE of a HORSE

—is the centrical joint of the leg, where the fore-thigh is united to the shank-bone. Its formation is of such strength, that a LAMENESS , by twist , distortion , or any other injury, is hardly ever sustained in this part, but by the accident of falling; which frequently happens, and, if attended with a blemish , very much reduces the previous value of the horse. Prominencies in a pavement, or rolling stones upon a road, are sometimes the occasion of such misfortunes, even to those who are in ge

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LAIR

LAIR

—was a term formerly applied to the haunt of outlying deer, and implied the place near which they might probably be found. It is, however, but little known in that sense, and is now used to express the part of a forest, chase, heath, or common, where any particular horse, cow, or other cattle, is accustomed to frequent when turned out, which is then called their LAIR , and where (or in the neighbourhood of it) their owners are generally sure to find them....

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LAMENESS in HORSES

LAMENESS in HORSES

—proceeds from a variety of causes, and requires much patient investigation to ascertain, to a certainty, the exact seat of injury; for want of which judicious precaution, mischief frequently follows. Horses are sometimes persecuted , blistered , and fired , for a LAMENESS in one part, which ultimately proves to be in another ; and this alone sufficiently points out the absolute necessity of a deliberate discrimination. As lameness proceeds from different causes, so it is of different kinds, and

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LAMPAS

LAMPAS

,—called also LAMPERS , and LAMPARDS , is a spongey elastic enlargement of the roof of a young horse's mouth, just behind the nippers of his upper jaw, which frequently acquires such a luxuriance in growth, as to be equal with, or to exceed, the surface of the teeth, and is supposed to occasion pain to such horses in the mastication of their corn. Different opinions have been entertained, and are still supported, upon this subject; some considering it only a temporary operation of NATURE during

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LASSITUDE

LASSITUDE

,—horses are frequently subject to, which does not amount to palpable pain, or evident indisposition. If a horse, who is usually in high spirits in the stable, as well as out, becomes depressed, dull, heavy, inattentive, and indifferent to food, it may be presumed something is going on in the system not directly consonant to the indications of health. In such cases, the necessary examination should be made without delay, and proper modes of counteraction adopted, to prevent the severity and dang

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LAW-SUITS

LAW-SUITS

,—in respect to horses, are become so common, from the frequent deceptions in BUYING and SELLING , (as well without others as with DEALERS ,) that not a term passes without various litigations of this description. When the expence and anxiety attendant upon both PLAINTIFF and DEFENDANT , during the time a suit is pending; the uncertainty of its termination, which ultimately depends so much upon the effect of chance in EVIDENCE ; the misrepresentation, or misconstruction, of FACTS , are all taken

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LEAD

LEAD

.—The EXTRACT of LEAD is a preparation passing almost universally under the denomination of Goulard's Extract , whose properties are acknowledged of great medical utility, and in many cases amount to a specific. See Goulard , where the effects of this article are more particularly explained....

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LEAPING

LEAPING

—is a leading perfection in a horse that very much enhances his value as a HUNTER ; without which qualification, he is held in no great estimation when shewn in the field. Leaping , in its general signification, extends to the two kinds called flying and standing ; a horse perfect in each, with equal temper, and a fair portion of SPEED , is then called a complete or made HUNTER ; and if he has a corresponding uniformity of figure, and excellence of action, both his reputation and worth become in

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LEASH

LEASH

,—the sporting term in use to imply the number THREE , as exceeding ONE , and not reaching TWO brace; for instance, a brace of hares, a leash of pheasants, and two brace of partridges. A brace of pointers, a leash of greyhounds, and two brace of spaniels. Custom, however, in this, as in most other things, admits of deviation and exception; in proof of which we say, a brace of spaniels, a couple and a half of hounds, and two brace of pointers. A brace of snipes, a couple and a half of woodcocks,

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LEGS

LEGS

.—The legs of a horse are, in their length, shape, and construction, so material to graceful and expeditious action, that they become, at the time of purchase, objects of minute inspection: if observed too long , in proportion to the DEPTH of the CHEST , and the LENGTH of the CARCASE , they may be considered a tolerable criterion of constitutional weakness , as few of this description are found equal to a constant repetition of even moderate work. Too straight in the lower part of the leg, with

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LEGS SWELLED

LEGS SWELLED

—originate in various causes; but from none so much as a sizey, viscid state of the BLOOD , a laxity of the SOLIDS , a shameful neglect of stable discipline, or a great deal of work at one time, and no regular exercise at another . That swelled legs arise from different causes, is sufficiently demonstrated by the opposite state of their external appearance in the examination of different subjects; where the legs of one shall be found distended to the utmost possible extent of the skin, with a de

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LESSONS

LESSONS

,—in the language of the MANEGE , are what is received by man, and given to the horse, according to the purposes for which they are designed, or the particular duties they are destined to discharge. Diverted of the practice of the schools, there are lessons which every man has it in his power to inculcate, and which never should be relaxed from, till the horse has attained a degree of perfection in those points, which render him a pattern of obedience, and consequent object of attraction to othe

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LEVERET

LEVERET

—is the term for a young HARE during her first year , or till FULL GROWN ....

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LETHARGY

LETHARGY

.—The lethargy, or SLEEPING EVIL , as it is called by the lower class of rustics and farriers, is a drowsy kind of stupefaction, to which DRAFT HORSES are more particularly subject than any other; with whom it is considered a kind of prelude to the STAGGERS , which in general soon follow, if the cause is not speedily removed. A horse upon being attacked, closes his eyes, drops his head into the manger, suddenly recovers himself, and as gradually drops again; opens his eyes, as if surprized, pick

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LIGHT in HAND

LIGHT in HAND

.—A horse is said to be light in hand, who, bearing properly upon his haunches, (or hind-quarters,) requires little or no assistance from the BIT . Horses of this description are generally well formed in their fore-quarters, with a curved crest, carrying their heads well up, with long necks, high withers, and a commanding forehand. Those with short necks, thick shoulders, dull spirit, slow action, and the withers lower before than the spinal (or rump) bone behind, are always of a contrary descri

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LIGHT CARCASED

LIGHT CARCASED

—is a term applied to horses, the shape of whose bodies bear no ill affinity to the form of a GREYHOUND . The carcases of such are flat at the sides, narrow in the chest, and gradually contract in circumference from the GIRTH to the FLANK ; where, after a little hard work, they appear so tucked up , it would seem to a stranger that they were emaciated for want of food. Horses of this description possess, in general, a SPIRIT so much beyond their STRENGTH , that, although they never will relinqui

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LINSEED

LINSEED

—is a well-known article, and of so much general utility, that the house of a SPORTSMAN (in the country) should never be without it: its properties, either in its state as SEED , or sold in the shops as powdered , become equally applicable to the stable wants of the winter season. A DECOCTION of the seeds, one handful boiled for a quarter of an hour in two quarts of water, and strained, is the best mucilaginous wash for sore or cracked heels during frost or snow that can be brought into use; as

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LIOUORICE ROOT

LIOUORICE ROOT

.—This is an article so much in use with HORSES , (in a pulverized state,) that it is absolutely necessary it should undergo some degree of elucidation; to prevent, if possible, a part of the medical deception , and adulteration , which so universally prevails. Liquorice root is plentifully produced in most countries of Europe, and is in all held in the same degree of estimation for its utility. What is grown in England is preferable to what is brought from abroad; the latter being generally mou

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LIVER of ANTIMONY

LIVER of ANTIMONY

—is a medicine possessing a very powerful and active property; and would not have been introduced in this place, but with a view to prevent some of the MISCHIEFS which would probably happen, from too free a use of so dangerous an article, when in the unrestrained hands of the illiterate, the injudicious, the unthinking, or the inexperienced. It will create some surprise with the considerate, that this preparation, (known also by the name of CROCUS METALLORUM ,) from two to six grains of which wi

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LIVER

LIVER

.—The liver in a horse is liable to disease, as obstructions by tubercles, indurated tumefactions, and schirrosity; either of which may be produced by various means, and treated as Jaundice , which SEE ....

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LOCKS

LOCKS

—are elastic leather pipes, or circular pads, stuffed with does' hair, about the size of a second finger in circumference, and made to buckle just above the fetlock of either leg, as a preventive to cutting with the other. There are others of a different form, made flat, having a padded oval in the center, which are called cutting-boots: the former, however, have the preference, as they occasion less stricture upon the tendons....

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LOINS

LOINS

—are the part of a horse at the extremity of the back immediately preceding the rump and hip bones, situate above the flanks. Beneath the loins internally are seated the KIDNIES , which, as well as the loins, are very susceptible of injury, by carrying improper weights, drawing too heavy loads, particularly up hills, or in short turns; to prevent all which should be humanely attended to. Injuries of this kind, when unfortunately sustained, are very easily ascertained by a little serious attentio

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LOOSE-JOINTED

LOOSE-JOINTED

. A horse is said to be LOOSE-JOINTED , when his PASTERNS are so long as to let his HOOF come considerably from under the perpendicular position of the FORE LEG , so that the heel is exceedingly flat , and the hinder part of the FETLOCK joint, by a kind of elastic bend or drop , seems nearly to touch the ground. Horses of the blood kind have frequently this failure in their formation, and is the principal reason why so many of them are seen in common hands of little or no value, as properly appr

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LOOSENESS

LOOSENESS

—is a laxity of habit, or debility of the intestines, which is constitutional with some horses; but in others is the effect of temporary disease; produced, probably, by an effervescent putrefaction of the excrements too long locked up in the intestinal canal, and at length suddenly and forcibly expelled by an effort of Nature , to relieve herself from the offending cause. This latter is the kind of looseness not to be immediately checked, or restrained, by the aid of aromatic restringents; but r

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LUNGS

LUNGS

.—The lungs of a horse are two elastic lobes, consisting of air vessels, blood vessels, lymphatics, nerves, and cellular membranes, possessing conjunctively the properties of contraction and expansion; nearly filling three parts of what is termed the CHEST , and may, without much deviation from the line of professional consistency, be pronounced the very mainspring of existence. It is the good or bad state of the LUNGS upon which the duration of life becomes in a proportional degree dependent; a

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LURCHER

LURCHER

.—The dog so called is rough and wirey haired, with ears erect, but dropping a little at the points: they are above the middle size, of a yellowish or sandy red color; and of great speed, courage, and fidelity. They were originally produced from a cross between the SHEPHERD'S DOG and the GREYHOUND , which, from breeding in and in with the latter, has so refined upon the original cross, that very little of the shepherd's dog is retained in its stock, its docility and fidelity excepted. Thus bred,

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LURCHER

LURCHER

,—the name of a horse of some recent celebrity; he was the property of Mr. Rider ; was got by Dungannon , dam by Vertumnus . In 1792, when three years old, he won a 50l. plate at Ascot Heath , beating seven others. At Stockbridge , a subscription of 20 guineas each, (ten subscribers,) beating Hamlet , St. George , and two others. At Winchester , a sweepstakes of 20 guineas each, eleven subscribers; and at Lewes , a sweepstakes of 10 guineas each, ten subscribers. He was then purchased by Mr. Wil

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MADNESS

MADNESS

.—This dreadful CANINE malady, with its consequences, when communicated to the human frame, will be found enlarged upon under the head Dog in the first Volume....

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MAIN

MAIN

.—The main is a principal term used in the fashionable and destructive nocturnal game of HAZARD , at which so many immense fortunes have been squandered away, and so very few realized. The person who is the holder of the BOX containing a PAIR of DICE , being set by an individual, or any part of the company, what money he, or they, may propose, and the money staked, (or, as it is technically called, covered ,) he, the Caster , (that is, the holder of the box,) shaking the dice, throws them out up

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MAIN of COCKS

MAIN of COCKS

.—When two parties, whether individuals, or an aggregate composed of gentlemen in one county, agreeing to fight a COCK-MATCH with an individual, or the gentlemen of another, the MATCH invariably consists of an odd number of BATTLES ; as twenty-one, thirty-one, or forty-one; which match once made, and the cocks weighed, is then called a MAIN of COCKS : when fought, and finished, the winner of the ODD battle (or more a-head) is the winner of the main. Whenever a MATCH is made between parties of re

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MALLENDERS

MALLENDERS

.—The DEFECT or DISORDER so called, is a large flat scab, or more properly an accumulation of eschars, (more or less inveterate,) seated at the hinder part of the fore-legs, directly behind the knee, just where the back sinews have their insertion at that joint. They are seldom seen with horses who are properly managed, but merely with those of an inferior description, that are little attended to. If discovered, and proper means of counteraction adverted to in their early state, little or no inc

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MALLOWS

MALLOWS

,—as well as MARSH-MALLOWS , are ingredients so useful and efficacious in fomentations, and emollient cataplasms, upon various unexpected emergencies, that the house of a SPORTSMAN in the country should never be without them....

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MALT, GROUND

MALT, GROUND

—is an article of the utmost utility when incorporated with an equal quantity of bran, and given in a mash to horses labouring under cough, bodily debility, (from over fatigue,) or disease; it possesses the property of invigoration, is highly nutritive; and, by its attracting fragrancy, horses are induced to take it in small quantities, during the progress of dangerous diseases, when they refuse every other kind of food. Mashes thus made, and given nightly, are useful in promoting CONDITION , as

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MANEGE

MANEGE

.—The MANEGE is a term used in a synonymous sense with equestrian academy, or riding school; implying not only the receptacle itself, but the instructions there to be derived from those who profess to teach the ART of HORSEMANSHIP by riding the great horse. There are many of this description, and of much celebrity, in and round the Metropolis, replete with every convenience for the accommodation of gentlemen, and the breaking of horses; and for ladies also, who have the advantage of riding under

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MANE

MANE

—is the name by which the long hair is called hanging from the neck of a horse, and extending from the back of his ears to his withers: a handsome full mane adds much to the natural beauty of a well-formed horse, and is of course preserved, not more in respect to ornament, than its utility in mounting, to the ease and agility in which it affords material assistance....

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MANGE in HORSES

MANGE in HORSES

.—The disorder so called, and with which only horses of the inferior sort are affected, originates in an impoverished state of the blood, occasioned by a want of proper healthy food, and a constant exposure to the elements in the severity of the winter season. When arrived at a certain degree of virulence, it becomes infectious, particularly as the warmer months of summer advance; and of this contagious property no doubt can be entertained; the LAW having provided a remedy, that no such horse sh

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MANGE in DOGS

MANGE in DOGS

—will be found fully treated on under a continuation of the head Hounds , in page 485 of the first Volume....

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MANGER

MANGER

—is the name by which the trough is called that is fixed in all stables, and from whence a horse eats his corn or mashes; it is usually placed under his rack, from which he receives his hay; and this, in well-managed stables, is not deposited there in large quantities, but in light proportions, and at stated periods. It is an excellent and healthy custom, though, perhaps, not much in practice, to let all MANGERS , in constant use, have a substantial scrubbing with soap, brush, and boiling water,

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MARE

MARE

—is the well-known feminine of the HORSE , but not held of equal value with the masculine in respect to the gender, which is not only troublesome, but found to be productive of temporary debility at certain seasons of the year. Mares are evidently weaker, and less adequate to severe work, during the time they give proof of a desire to copulate, than at any other; which, perhaps, is the principal reason why GELDINGS are so generally preferred, as far as they can be obtained. Notwithstanding this

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MARK!

MARK!

—a term used by SPORTSMEN , particularly in COVERT SHOOTING , where they are necessarily separated from each other; when one of the party, having sprung a PHEASANT , or flushed a COCK , (at which he either did not get a shot , or missed his aim ,) he then vociferates the signal, MARK! in a hope his companion may get a shot, or mark the spot near where he alights, to insure a better chance of his recovery. It is also used in partridge shooting, where hedges or hedge-rows interrupt the sight, or d

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MARK in the MOUTH

MARK in the MOUTH

.—The black cavity in the TEETH of a HORSE , by which his age is correctly known till seven years old, is called the mark ; when which is obliterated, the age can be no longer precisely ascertained. Dealers adopt a successful mode of deception , by which the young and inexperienced are frequently imposed upon. See Bishoping and Colt ....

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MARK ANTHONY

MARK ANTHONY

,—the name of a horse of some celebrity as a RACER , and equal to any horse of his time: he was bred by Mr. C. Blake , and foaled in 1767: he was got by that known good horse Spectator (who was got by Crab ) out of Rachel , (who was got by Blank ;) her dam by Regulus , grand-dam by Soreheels . He acquired some reputation as a STALLION , and was the sire of several good runners....

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MARSK

MARSK

—was a horse whose distinguished celebrity arose more from chance than any peculiar merits of his own. He was bred by the then Duke of Cumberland ; was foaled in 1750; got by Squirt , (who was got by Bartlet's Childers ;) dam by Blacklegs , grand-dam by Fox Cub . Although his blood and racing ability stood fairly admitted, yet, so far from having acquired any reputation as a STALLION , he was permitted to COVER common mares at the Lodge, in Windsor Great Park, for only half-a-guinea , which was

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MARTIN, or MARTERN

MARTIN, or MARTERN

,—is an animal inhabiting woods and bushy coverts, rather inferior in size to a domestic cat, but longer in the neck and body, having a head and tail corresponding in make and shape with the FOX , but not so sharp-pointed in the ears. They are nearly as expert in climbing trees, and leaping from one to another, as a squirrel; they breed in the hollows of trees, and produce four, five, and even six, young at a time. They live upon poultry, game, and birds: most probably the casual food of the FOX

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MARTINGAL

MARTINGAL

.—The article so named is of two kinds; one of which is termed a HEADSTALL martingal; the other, simply, a martingal: each consists of a long strip of leather, about an inch and a half wide, passing between the fore-legs, with a loop or wide noose at its extremity, through which the hinder girth is to pass, and by which it is secured at that end: at the front of the breast it divides into two equal branches; and having SWIVEL RINGS at the extremity of each, they are slipt on upon the bridoon (or

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MASH

MASH

—is a name given to a kind of universal PANACEA for horses during a course of PHYSIC , or labouring under COUGH , COLD , or DISEASE . Mashes are differently made, according to the necessity which occasions their being brought into use: some are made with BRAN and HONEY ; others with equal parts of OATS and BRAN , with or without honey; but the most fragrant, useful, attracting, and invigorating, is made from GROUND MALT , with such proportion of BRAN as will disunite the glutinous adhesive prope

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MASTER of the HORSE

MASTER of the HORSE

—is an office of high honor and great trust, seldom conferred upon any but some distinguished individual of the peerage, in possession of his Majesty's confidence, and honored with his personal approbation. The department of the MASTER of the HORSE is of very considerable magnitude, possessing a greater extent of patronage than almost any other appointment in the GIFT of the Crown . The Master of the Horse is the supreme superintendant of every thing appertaining to the establishment of the King

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MASTER of the STAG HOUNDS

MASTER of the STAG HOUNDS

. See King's Hounds ....

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MATCH COCK

MATCH COCK

.—A cock intended to fight in a MATCH , must not be less in weight than three pounds six ounces, or exceed four pounds eight: if either less than the first , or more than the latter , he cannot be shewn or brought to the SCALE . See Main of Cocks ....

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MATCH in RACING

MATCH in RACING

—is a BET made between the OWNERS where only two horses are concerned, one of which must become the winner. For explanatory particulars, see Horse Racing . Horses are said to MATCH (for a carriage) when they correspond, and constitute a similitude in height, marks, action, and color. A HUNTING MATCH (generally termed a steeple chase) is made by parties, to ride their own horses across a country to some point agreed on, encountering all difficulties, and taking the LEAPS in stroke : this kind of

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MATCHEM

MATCHEM

—was a horse the most eminent of his time as a RACER , and for many years was the most esteemed STALLION in the kingdom. He was bred by Mr. Fenwick , foaled in 1748; got by Cade , dam by Partner , grand-dam by Makeless , great grand-dam by Brimmer , &amp;c. &amp;c. He produced an annual succession of winners (many of them excellent runners) too long for enumeration....

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MERCURY

MERCURY

—is become an article of so much medical utility with HORSES , as well as with the human species, that it seems entitled to some mention here, being a specific much talked of, but not universally understood. Mercury (alias quicksilver) is an opaque silver-colored mineral fluid, appearing to the eye like melted TIN or LEAD ; it is heavier than any other fluid, and does not congeal in the greatest degree of natural cold ever yet known. This mineral is met with in its fluid form in the earth, or ex

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MERCURY

MERCURY

—was the name of a horse, that, as a RACER , and afterwards a STALLION , stood very high in sporting estimation. He was bred by the late Colonel O'Kelly ; foaled in 1778; was got by Eclipse out of a Tartar mare, who was likewise the dam of Whitenose , Maria , Antiochus , Venus , Jupiter , Adonis , Lilly of the Valley , Volunteer , Bonnyface , and Queen Mab . After having acquired considerable celebrity as a good runner, and proved himself equal to any horse of his time, he became a favourite STA

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MESHES

MESHES

—are the vacancies in all kinds of NET-WORK , of which there are various sorts, with their meshes of different dimensions; as the gate-net , flue-net , tunnel-net , drawing-net , casting-net , &amp;c. &amp;c. as adapted to their distinct uses, for taking either FISH or FOWL ....

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MEUSE

MEUSE

—is the opening at the bottom of quick-set and other hedges, as well as in the bushy underwood of COVERTS , through which HARES take their track , when going to, or coming from, FEED during the night . At these meuses the expert and experienced POACHER fixes his wires (commonly called snares) with so much security, and confidence of success, that he generally insures a tolerable proportion to his own share, according to the stock of the country....

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MEWING

MEWING

—is an old forest term for a STAG'S shedding his horns....

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MEWS

MEWS

—is a receptacle for horses and carriages, appropriated to no other use whatever. The buildings consist of stables and coach-houses only, with conveniencies above for the residence of coachmen and their families. In all the newly-erected squares and streets at the western extremity of the Metropolis, most of the houses are so constructed, that the master and servants have access to the stables by a communication at the back of the dwelling-house, without the inconvenience of passing through the

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MOLTEN GREASE

MOLTEN GREASE

.—This disorder is defined by every writer in succession, a solution of the FAT with which a horse may abound, when brought into sudden and excessive action; that in its state of liquefaction, a great part falls upon the intestines, there becomes in a certain degree incorporated with the contents, and is more or less discharged in an oily state with the excrements. This is proved by long experience to be a well-founded description of both the case and the cause, which very frequently prove fatal

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MOON EYES

MOON EYES

.—Horses said to have MOON EYES , or to be MOON-BLIND , is one of the relics of former superstition, when certain defects of the eyes were ridiculously supposed to have been influenced for better or worse , by the increasing or declining state of the MOON . Such opinions seem now to be wearing away, and verging upon oblivion, in proportion as the structure of the parts, as well as the remedies to relieve, become more perfectly comprehended by the indefatigable researches of Veterinarian investig

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MOOR GAME

MOOR GAME

.—See Grouse , Heath Fowl , and Game ....

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MORTIFICATION

MORTIFICATION

.—This state, in a PHYSICAL sense, with either MAN or BEAST , is the total cessation of vital heat in any part of the body or extremities, which then becomes, insensible, and is followed by putrefaction. When a mortification arises from some external injury done to the part, it is not preceded by a gangrene, but is produced by an absolute stagnation of the blood and juices, and all the injured parts become insensible and putrid at the same time, without any previous inflammation. A mortification

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MOTION

MOTION

.—A horse is said to be of easy motion, when he has a fine length of forehand, goes off the ground lightly with his head up, gliding his hind-legs under his carcase in action, without the straddling spring for which rough-going horses are so remarkable....

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MOUTH

MOUTH

.—The good or bad mouth of a horse depends upon the pliability of his temper, and his obedience to the bit. Some horses (particularly those of violent and refractory dispositions) are so truly insensible to every effort of even the best riders, that hardly any kind of bit can be invented to reduce them to subjection; while, on the contrary, there are those, and even blood horses, of such good temper, and constitutional docility; that they may be regulated instantaneously to any purpose, by the m

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MULE

MULE

.—The MULE is that well-known cross-bred animal, generated between an ASS and a MARE . Some are, but very rarely, produced by the HORSE with a SHE ASS ; but they are smaller, weaker, and of less utility, consequently not bred with design. The mule has all the good qualities of the ass, without its bad ones; it is as patient, and as permanent under labour; it can bear the most incessant fatigue, with the lead sustenance; is without the instinctive stupidity of the ass, and is equally tractable wi

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MUTE

MUTE

—is a sporting term, applied to a HOUND when he pursues his GAME by the scent, without giving tongue . As some are by much too free, and give tongue too hastily, when in a state of uncertainty, acquiring thereby the degrading denomination of a babbler ; so there are others equally tardy in proclaiming the certainty when known. Hounds of each description are considered injurious to the discipline and desirable excellence of the pack, and are generally rejected so soon as their imperfections are k

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MUZZLE

MUZZLE

.—Muzzles are made of leather, and are of two sorts; the one called a dressing , the other a setting , muzzle. The first is of the same form as the last, but of different construction, having a few straps crossing each other transversely, and so united as to be about nine inches in depth, and of a shape to cover the nose of the horse so high; to which are annexed two straps; one of which passes up the cheek on each side, and buckles at the top of the head behind the ears; the use of this is to d

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NABOB

NABOB

—was a horse of much temporary note, and considered one of the best country plate horses of his time; he was bred by Mr. Swinburne , and foaled in 1753; was got by Cade , dam by Crab , grand-dam by Childers . Although he was a known good runner, he never as a STALLION produced any racers of much celebrity....

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NAG

NAG

—is rather a provincial than a general term, and varies a little in its signification, according to the county, or part of the kingdom, in which it is used. In the most common country acceptation, it implies a RIDING horse or ROADSTER , in contra-distinction to a carriage or cart-horse . A "complete nag" may be considered a kind of horse beyond the line of mediocrity, and bordering upon the idea of a moderate hunter. A "smartish nag" is what the opulent farmer rides to market; and a "tightish li

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NARROW CHESTED

NARROW CHESTED

.—A horse is so called, whose breast is so narrow (when standing before him) that the fore-legs gradually extend wider in proportion as the eye accompanies them nearer the ground; so that, in a front view, they bear the form of two legs of a common country washing-stool, where the legs are inserted in the narrow part of the wood at the top, and are four or five inches more in width at the bottom. Horses of this description are invariably weak before; and when put into hard work, or severe exerti

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NARROW HEELS

NARROW HEELS

.—Enlarged upon under " Heels Narrow ," which SEE ....

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NAVEL-GALL

NAVEL-GALL

—is an injury sustained upon the centrical part of the back-bone, corresponding with that part below, from whence it originally derived its present denomination. It is always occasioned by the pad of the SADDLE being in itself too wide, (and deficient in stuffing,) letting the iron -work of the tree come into contact with the SPINE ; or from the long and constant use of a roller in the stable, till having lost the elasticity of its stuffing, it then becomes sufficiently hard , particularly with

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NEAR-SIDE

NEAR-SIDE

.—The near-side of a horse is the LEFT SIDE , and of course the side on which the rider goes to mount. The right-side of the horse is always called the OFF-SIDE ; but the right side, or the left side, is never so termed, when speaking of a horse. It is the invariable custom to say, that horse is lame of the " near -leg before;" the other, is evidently defective in the " off -leg behind."...

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NECK

NECK

.—The neck of a horse has been so often enlarged upon under a variety of different heads, that little or nothing is left useful, entertaining, or instructive, to introduce upon the subject. All that can be required, will be found largely explained by referring to " Horse " and " Forehand ," where, if it is not already remarked sufficiently, it may be here more forcibly inculcated; that a horse with a short neck, is in general lower before than behind; that he is never easy in action; carries his

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NEEDLE-WORMS

NEEDLE-WORMS

—are small white worms with a sharp-pointed head, having their seat in the rectum of a horse, from whence they are frequently discharged with the dung, but are difficult to dislodge and extirpate entirely. By their unceasing action, (twirling and twisting in the dung when expelled,) it is natural to conceive, how very much they irritate, disquiet, and distress an animal where they have acquired possession; of this there needs no greater proof, than the excrements frequently and suddenly coming a

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NEIGHING

NEIGHING

—is an exclamatory sensation (or vociferation) by which the horse evinces either anxiety, suspense, or pleasure; but the passion he feels is expressed with much more force and energy in the two first, than in the latter, which is ejaculated with low and gradual vibrative sounds, too expressive to be mistaken by even the inexperienced naturalist, or least attentive observer. Being separated from a companion with whom he has been accustomed to stand in the same stable, and to accompany each other

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NETS

NETS

—are the well-known articles constructed of thread, packthread, and small cord, made of every sort and size, for the various purposes of taking fish, fowl, and game of every denomination; from the GUDGEON to the SALMON , from the SPARROW to the WILD DUCK , and from the RABBIT to the RED DEER : all are destined to bow obedience to human ingenuity. Nets are to be obtained from the makers, of almost every possible description, under a variety of names, according to the distinct use for which each i

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NEWMARKET

NEWMARKET

—is the name of a small town, about sixty miles from the Metropolis , and ten from Cambridge . In itself it lays claim to little attention, but is rendered of much celebrity by the beautiful country by which it is surrounded, and the periodical RACING MEETINGS there established; constituting a kind of carnival to the SPORTING WORLD , that, to be properly conceived, must be seen; and to be enjoyed, must be understood. During the whole of each meeting it is a complete MART of BUSINESS in the midst

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NICKING

NICKING

—was formerly considered an OPERATION of much MAGNITUDE , and not without its proportion of danger ; and then performed only by such as were considered eminent in the PRACTICE , and expert in the ART . It is now, however, a matter of so little consequence, that anatomical knowledge is not thought at all necessary to the execution; it being a well-known fact, that almost every DEALER (or even his principal servant) is an operator from one extremity of the kingdom to the other. The intent of NICKI

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NIDE

NIDE

—is the term sportingly applied to the offspring or produce of the COCK and HEN PHEASANT , so long as they continue to clutch or brood together, before they separate, and are able to provide for themselves. To be technically correct, it is usual to say, a nide of PHEASANTS ; a covey of PARTRIDGES ; a clutch of CHICKENS ; a setting of GULLS ; and a brood of DUCKS ....

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NIPPERS

NIPPERS

.—The four teeth in the front of a horse's mouth (two above and two below) are so denominated: these are the teeth which expel their predecessors (called colt's teeth ) when a colt is two years old off, and rising three. See Colt ....

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NIPPERS

NIPPERS

.—The smaller sized PINCERS of the shoeing-smith are so called....

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NITRE

NITRE

—is an article in too much general use to stand in need of minute description. Its medical properties are of the most universal kind, with respect to the diseases of horses; but it is, on account of its being easily obtained, (for little money,) frequently introduced with the greatest indiscretion. Nitre is an useful assistant in most inflammatory disorders, as it is both of a diuretic and cooling property; it is consequently to be recommended in FEVERS , INFLAMMATION of the LUNGS , swelled legs

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NOSEBAND

NOSEBAND

—is that part of a military bridle, headstall, martingal, or hunting rein-halter, which passing below the under jaw, and round the nose above the nostrils, assists in keeping the other parts of either in their proper position....

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NOSTRILS

NOSTRILS

.—The nostrils of a horse are generally a tolerable criterion of his wind , as well as his blood . A horse having a wide and well-extended nostril, may be supposed to possess a free and easy expansion of the LUNGS : this cannot be more perfectly comprehended, than by adverting occasionally to the shape of horses who RACE , and are thorough BRED ; where the form and expansion of the nostrils will be found more than one third the size of such horses as are of common lineage, and inferior descripti

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OATS

OATS

—are the well-known farinaceous grain which is the principal food and support of horses in constant work. After various experiments by NATURALISTS , and the most celebrated AGRICULTURISTS , they are found to convey a greater portion of nutriment to the frame, and invigoration to the system, at less expence, than any other kind of food whatever. The advantages of obtaining the heaviest in weight, the brightest in colour, and the sweetest in hand, are too self-evident to require a single line in e

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OBERON

OBERON

—is a horse of some recent celebrity: he was bred by Mr. Hutchinson , and foaled in 1790; he was got by Highflyer , dam ( Queen Mab ) by Eclipse , out of a Tartar mare. In 1793, when three years old, he won the GOLD CUP at Doncaster , value 100 guineas; beating Cayenne , Ninety-three , Skypeeper , Restless , Flora , and Chigwell . The same day he won the Doncaster Stakes of 10 guineas each, thirteen subscribers; beating Huby , Restless , and Yarico . In 1794 he won at York , a subscription of 25

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OFF-SIDE

OFF-SIDE

.—The right -side of a HORSE , if you stand parallel with him, and look the same way, is the OFF-SIDE ; as the left is the NEAR-SIDE . When speaking of any part of a horse, it is not usual, in sporting terms, to use the words right or left; but to say the near -shoulder; the off -eye; the near -leg BEFORE , or the off -leg behind....

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ONION

ONION

—is an article which would not have found its way here, but in consequence of its great utility upon a certain emergency, which entitles its property to be more universally known. No trifling occurrence can possibly occasion more temporary mortification to a SPORTSMAN , than to see his horse labouring under the STRANGURY (or suppression of urine) after the long stage of a journey, or the severity of a chase. In such cases, the first FARRIER is generally called in, who proceeding upon the " KILL

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OPENING the HEELS

OPENING the HEELS

.—The ceremony of opening a horse's heels is sometimes necessary, when they are become contracted by so constantly standing upon the dry litter, and hot dung of stables, in the Metropolis; a circumstance which occurs much less in the country, where the defect is but little known. Although there can be no doubt of a hoof's contracting in a great degree by the means already mentioned, it must be more so, where the hoofs are not OILED or STOPPED for weeks , or, probably, months together. It is, how

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OPODELDOC

OPODELDOC

—is an article of external use in STRAINS , BRUISES , and other complaints, as well with the human species as with the brute creation. It is prepared by dissolving three ounces of Spanish soap , and one ounce of CAMPHIRE , in a pint of SPIRIT of ROSEMARY . Others dissolve the soap and camphire in rectified spirits of wine, adding OIL of ORIGANUM , and other essential oils. Its excellent properties are universally admitted in its various applications to the human frame; but doubts naturally arise

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ORIGANUM, OIL of

ORIGANUM, OIL of

,—is a well-known essential oil, extracted from the plant whose name it bears: it is an admirable collateral corroborant, when incorporated with judicious proportions of such other medicines as are proper for STRAINS , or a relaxed state of the TENDONS . If used in too great quantities, or added to heterogeneous articles, it disunites itself almost immediately; and, instead of executing the office of a gentle STIMULANT , penetrating the pores, assumes the power of the milder class of CAUSTICS ,

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OROONOKO

OROONOKO

—was one of the most celebrated horses of his time: he was bred by the late Lord Portmore ; was got by Crab out of Miss Slamerkin ; foaled in 1743; and was own brother to Othello , the famous Black and all Black ....

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OTHELLO

OTHELLO

—was the first name of that justly celebrated HORSE , so firmly fixed in the memory of every old SPORTSMAN of the present generation, by the more distinguished appellation of Black and all Black . He was bred by the late Lord Portmore ; was got by Crab out of Miss Slamerkin , who was got by True Blue . He was foaled in 1745, and was esteemed the first racer of his time, producing afterwards, as a STALLION , some very famous runners....

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OTTER

OTTER

.—This is called an amphibious animal, living (to a certain degree and length of time) with as much seeming ease in the water, as he does upon land. It is, however, well ascertained, that he cannot exist long under the water , without occasionally reaching the surface for necessary respiration. The favourite and principal food of the otter is fish, of which he consumes, or rather destroys , a very considerable quantity in the neighbourhood of wherever he fixes his residence. This is formed under

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OTTER-HUNTING

OTTER-HUNTING

,—a sport at present so little pursued, was formerly in constant practice, and is said to have been then in great estimation: it is, however, to be presumed, it was in less enlightened times, and long before the different chases of STAG , FOX , and HARE , held forth a speedy prospect of their present perfection. Hounds were then kept and trained for the purpose; and as some proof of the stupidity of the sport, or the somniferous dispositions of those who pursued (or enjoyed) it, an account of th

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OVER-DONE

OVER-DONE

.—A horse is said to be over-done, when both his FRAME and SPIRITS are so exhausted with fatigue and excessive labour, that he sinks down in his stall almost immediately after reaching the stable; where he extends himself at every extremity, giving evident proof of the struggles nature has to encounter, by the bodily disquietude under which he continues distressed for many hours , and sometimes DAYS , before he becomes perfectly recovered. When a horse is reduced to this state, by a too long con

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OVER-REACH

OVER-REACH

.—An over-reach is such injury (either cut or bruise) as is frequently sustained in the heel of a horse's FORE-FOOT , by one of the SHOES BEHIND ; and this happens during brisk action, in either TROT or GALLOP , where the ground is unexpectedly deep and deceptive: or when a horse is thick in the shoulders, and slow in action before , the hind-quarters are thrown in faster than the fore-legs can get out of the way, by which inactive, or sluggish tardiness, the accident is occasioned much oftener

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ORMOND

ORMOND

,—a horse of much recent racing celebrity, bred by Mr. Wentworth in the north of England, was foaled in the year 1789; got by King Fergus ; dam ( Miss Cornforth ) by Matchem ; grand-dam by Sampson ; and great grand-dam by Regulus . In the Craven Meeting at Newmarket, 1792, he ran second to John Bull for the great produce stakes of 200 guineas each, across the flat, half forfeit, thirty-five subscribers; beating Hotspur , Whiskey , St. Paul , Lucifer , Guildford , and others. The same year, at Yo

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OVERTON

OVERTON

,—another son of King Fergus , dam by Herod , grand-dam by Snip , great grand-dam own sister to Regulus , was bred by Mr. Hutchinson , and foaled in 1788. At York, in 1792, he won a sweepstakes of 100 guineas each, half forfeit, twelve subscribers. The same week he won a fifty-pound plate, added to a subscription purse, beating Rosalind , Storm , Halbert , and two others. The next day he beat Halbert a match four miles, for 300 guineas, giving him a stone. At Doncaster he won the GOLD CUP of 100

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PACE

PACE

—is an expression to signify the motion, or progressive action, of a horse, as well as one of the human species. When speaking of a man's pace, it is usual to say, he walks , he runs , or he goes a good pace ; which becomes applicable to either, meaning, that he is an expeditious WALKER , a fleet RUNNER , or perhaps both . A horse has a great variety of PACES , as a walk , trot , amble , canter , gallop , rating-gallop , and at speed ; some of which many horses have in great perfection, and are

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PAD

PAD

—is a common rustic term for a GALLOWAY , or small horse....

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PADDOCK

PADDOCK

,—in earlier times, signified a PADDOCK enclosed with a wall or paling of an immense height, a mile in length, and a quarter of a mile broad, in which DEER were coursed with GREYHOUNDS , in the same manner as HARES are coursed at present, but with numerous variations in respect to the coursing rules now in use, These paddocks, from their great extent, were seldom seen, but in the ROYAL PARKS , or upon the demesnes of the most opulent and distinguished subjects. The sport itself has been a long t

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PALATE

PALATE

.—The entire roof of the horse's mouth, amongst FARRIERS and SMITHS , is generally distinguished by the simple unmeaning appellation of PALATE ; the ridges crossing which are called the BARS : these, when they become too luxuriant and fleshy just behind the nippers, (the upper front teeth,) are then said to constitute a defect called the LAMPAS , which are reduced by repeated scarifications with a lancet, or extirpated by means of a red-hot iron, called the ACTUAL CAUTERY . (See Lampas .) In all

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PALSY

PALSY

—is a disorder, or rather a species of disorder, so nearly allied to the various degrees of staggers, apoplexy, or deprivation of sense, that the best Veterinary writers do not seem to have laid down any fixed rule, or unerring diagnostic, by which the discriminating shades, or predominant traits, of each are to be precisely ascertained. As the causes may be different of either, so the disorder may be more or less violent, according to the gradational excess of the cause. One attack of the speci

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PARK

PARK

,—in its plain construction, is an extensive tract of ground, or country, enclosed with WALL or PALING , well variegated with WOOD and WATER , for the support of cattle, and preservation of VENISON and GAME . It becomes a park by the privilege of prescription, or by the King's grant. There are many parks in possession of the Crown, (as well as of opulent individuals,) of which Windsor Great Park is the largest in the kingdom. It is upon record, that the Park of Woodstock was the first in England

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PARTNER

PARTNER

.—There were five famous horses of this name in succession, from Old Partner , in 1718, to Little Partner , in 1745. The first was called Croft's ; the second, Moore's ; the third, Grisewood's ; the fourth, Bright's ; and the last, Pearson's . Old Partner was got by Jigg , out of a sister to Mixbury ; he was a most excellent runner, and produced an astonishing progeny of winners; from whom his blood is ramified through most of the studs in the kingdom. He was sire of Sedbury , Tartar , Cato , Tr

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PARTRIDGES

PARTRIDGES

—are those well known timid, harmless, inoffensive branches of the feathered creation, the beautiful variegations of whose plumage, and the nutritive property of whose flesh, have entitled them to the distinguished appellation of GAME , and the honour of parliamentary protection. They begin to pair off from the fragmental remains of COVIES , about the last week in February , and through the month of March ; make their nests upon the ground, in hedges, and the banks of hedge-rows principally; tho

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PASTERN

PASTERN

.—The pastern of a horse is the distance between the fetlock and the coronet, which terminates at the junction of hair and hoof. The pastern should be short, strong, and uniform; when long, it is proportionally weak; and the nearer the fetlock is to the ground, the more liable such horse is to be let down in the back sinews, and become lame....

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PATTEN-SHOE

PATTEN-SHOE

—was a shoe formerly used with lame horses; but from the palpable absurdity of its adoption, seems now to be nearly banished from modern practice. This shoe was constructed with a ring, circular, or nearly oval, at the bottom, which being fixed upon the SOUND foot, its intentional use was to compel the horse in all injuries to stand upon the lame leg, that a contraction of the muscular parts might be prevented. Happily such ridiculous and ill-founded notions are gliding into oblivion....

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PATTERN-SHOE

PATTERN-SHOE

—is a shoe formed upon rational principles, and of a scientific construction, for transmission to any part of the world, as a PATTERN by which the ART of SHOEING may be universally improved, and reduced to one general standard of purity and perfection....

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PEDIGREE

PEDIGREE

.—The pedigree (or genealogical descent) of a horse is in the present day so fabricated by hearsay , or framed by fiction , that nothing less than a well-authenticated certificate, under the hand of the BREEDER , can with propriety be received as an indisputable proof of the PURITY of his BLOOD : and this is the more evidently necessary to a SPORTSMAN , lest he should be induced (relying upon his deceptive pedigree) to enter into a racing engagement, and that too, perhaps, for a sum of much magn

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PHEASANT

PHEASANT

.—The pheasant is not only the most beautiful bird in plumage of any bred in this kingdom, but the first in estimation; not more for the sport it affords in the field, than its delicious attraction for the table. They are about one fourth less in size than common poultry, lay nearly the same number of eggs, and bring up their young in the same manner. They principally frequent the WOODS and hedge-rows, are seldom found in the fields, and then but very rarely far from covert : when upon WING , th

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PHÆNOMENON

PHÆNOMENON

—was one of the most celebrated sons of Herod , both as a RACER and a STALLION . He was bred by Sir J. Kaye , and foaled in 1780; was got by Herod , dam ( Frenzy ) by Eclipse , grand-dam by Engineer , out of Lass of the Mill , who was got by Traveller . His performances upon the turf so strictly corresponded with his name, that the infinity of mares brought to him in the first seasons of his covering, afforded him an opportunity of adding to his reputation in a degree almost beyond former exampl

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PHYSIC

PHYSIC

—is a term sometimes given (particularly in the country) to every kind of MEDICINE that can be administered to either MAN or HORSE : the more polished and general acceptation confines it solely to the operation of PURGING , in which sense alone it can be properly understood. It is but a few years (since the appearance of "The Gentleman's Stable Directory,") that the general necessity for, and palpable utility of, occasionally PHYSICING HORSES , became almost universally admitted. Its salutary ef

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PICKER

PICKER

.—A horse-picker is a small iron instrument, so truly convenient upon many emergencies, that a prudent traveller, or experienced sportsman, is hardly ever seen without one annexed to the handle of a knife which he carries in his pocket: its use is to extract stones, pebbles, or flints, from the bottom of the foot, when they are picked up in hunting, or upon the road. They are sometimes so firmly fixed between the inner edge of the SHOE and the FROG , that nothing but very violent force with a ha

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PIGEONS

PIGEONS

—are the well-known domestic birds, of which there are only TWO sorts entitled to attention here, as affording equally nutritious support for the frame, but neither calculated to excite sport in the field, or emulative attraction in their destruction. The two different kinds are distinguished under the denomination of WILD and TAME ; the former are bred in COTES and DOVE-HOUSES , (such as are seen at the rustic mansions of the great, and at large farms in open countries;) the latter in less numb

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PIGEON-SHOOTING

PIGEON-SHOOTING

—is a sport principally resorted to at that season of the year when guns are laying dormant, and game of every other kind is, by the privilege of Parliament, permitted to enjoy its rest. Pigeon-shooting is a match between two individuals, or any fixed number on each side, and is decided by one, or the other, killing the greatest NUMBER of PIGEONS within an equal number of shots. The match made, and the place agreed on where it is to be decided, the dove-house pigeons are provided in proportion t

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PILOT

PILOT

.—There have been three horses of this name; two of which were excellent racers, and esteemed equal, as plate horses, to any of their time. The first was bred by Sir Charles Bunbury ; foaled in 1762; got by Snap , dam by Cade , grand-dam by Crab , out of Lord Portmore's Abigail . The second was bred by Sir H. Harpur; foaled in 1770; got by Dainty Davy , dam by Blanck , grand-dam ( Dizzy ) by the famous and original Driver . The third was bred by the late Counsellor Lade; foaled in 1782, and got

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PLAY or PAY

PLAY or PAY

,—a description of BET so made. Whether the subject of such bet be MAN or HORSE ; the object a race , or a boxing match; either party being present at the time and place appointed, ready to perform their part of the engagement previously entered into; the other not appearing, or appearing, and then and there refusing to enter into the contest, upon the event of which the article or bet was originally formed, can lay no claim whatever to the stakes deposited; and the holder stands justified in ha

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PLAY or PAY

PLAY or PAY

,—the name of a horse of much recent and racing celebrity, the property of Mr. Durand . He was bred by Mr. Parker , and got by Ulysses out of Tiffany's dam. In 1794, at three years old, (in the name of Mars ,) he won 50 l. at Epsom, beating six others. At Stockbridge, a sweepstakes of 10 guineas each, nine subscribers. At Winchester he walked over the Course for a sweepstakes of 20 guineas each, eight subscribers. In 1795, when four years old, he beat Mr. Turner's Tim Tartlet , two miles for 200

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PLEURISY

PLEURISY

—is a disorder in the horse so nearly allied to an INFLAMMATION of the LUNGS , that probably the most judicious and experienced Veterinarian would not, without much difficulty, be enabled to distinguish between one and the other. The predominant symptoms are sudden and violent: he first becomes heavy, dull, and oppressed; soon shews great difficulty of respiration, pants exceedingly; is distressed with an almost incessant painful endeavour to cough: the mouth continues, from the commencement of

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PLUMAGE

PLUMAGE

.—The feathers upon every kind of fowl, wild or tame, is so termed: if speckled, or interspersed with different streaks, or opposite lights and shades, it is then called variegated plumage. If a GAME COCK is bred perfectly WHITE , he is called a SMOCK ....

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POACHERS

POACHERS

—are those determined destructive nocturnal depredators, by whom the game is so shamefully reduced in opposition to all LAW , and defiance of all ORDER , from one extremity of the kingdom to the other. This head cannot be better elucidated, than by transcribing literally, from the recent work of a writer of much celebrity, his judicious remarks upon the subject. "It is, perhaps, among that description of persons well known by the name of poachers , that the greater number of those are trained to

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POINT

POINT

.—A horse standing in his stall, or elsewhere, with one fore-leg at some distance before the other, is always concluded, by the most experienced, to have sustained some irreparable injury either in the SHOULDER , or the ligamentary junction of the COFFIN and CORONARY bones, concealed in the box (or cavity) of the hoof. This is in a considerable degree to be relied on; but there are many instances in which a horse accustoms himself to awkward positions, and they become habitual: some stand with e

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POINT

POINT

—is the position of a POINTER , when standing seemingly fixed and immoveable at the game before him; at the moment of observing which, particularly with young or unsteady dogs, the natural ejaculatory caution of " To ho !" " Have a care !" transpires; not more as an injunction of steadiness to the dog standing, but as a communicative mode of enjoining the attention of every dog in the field to the first who has obtained the point....

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POINTER

POINTER

.—The pointer is that species of dog well known to contribute more to the contemplative pleasures and pursuits of a sportsman, than any other in the canine catalogue. This peculiar breed, on account of their universality and general utility, have been so incredibly crossed, re-crossed, bred in , and bred out , to gratify the various opinions, (as prompted by fancy, caprice, or speculation,) that they are now to be found of all sizes, and all qualifications; from the slow, short-headed, heavy-sho

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POLE-CAT

POLE-CAT

.—The pole-cat is a species of vermin, partaking, in some degree, of the figure and propensities of the MARTIN and the FERRET ; or rather between both. It is smaller than the one, and considerably larger than the other; is an inhabitant of the bushy coverts in the neighbourhood of lonely farm-houses; to the POULTRY , EGGS , and DOVE-HOUSES , of which they are constant and destructive enemies. The effluvia, or rather stench , arising from their bodies is so truly offensive, that it has long since

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POLL-EVIL

POLL-EVIL

,—in its first stage, is a tumefaction formed upon the poll of a horse immediately behind the ears, and is, in general, occasioned by a blow, bruise, or, perhaps, sometimes by the heavy weight and constant pressure of old harsh, stubborn harness-halters; as it is a kind of casual defect, or misfortune, with which only draught-horses are known to be much affected. Upon its discovery, when in an early state, repulsion may be attempted by mild restringents, as a few minutes patient fomentation with

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POMONA

POMONA

.—There have been three well-bred mares of this name: the first bred by Lord Clermont , foaled in 1769, got by Squirrel , dam by Young Cade , grand-dam by Rib , out of Grisewood's Lady Thigh . The second was bred by the late Duke of Cumberland , foaled in 1775, got by Herod , dam by Snap , grand-dam by Regulus . This mare was the dam of several runners, including Nina , Spear , Gardener , and Halbert . The third was bred by Mr. O'Kelly , foaled in 1783, got by Vertumnus out of Helen , (who was g

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POST MATCH

POST MATCH

—is a term in RACING , where it is only necessary to insert the age of the HORSES in the Articles, and to run any horse of that age, without declaring what horse, till he appears at the post....

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POT8OO'S

POT8OO'S

,—the name of a horse whose performances as a RACER , and progeny as a STALLION , will transmit his celebrity to succeeding generations in various directions: he was bred by the late Lord Abingdon , foaled in 1773, and got by Eclipse out of Sportsmistress , the dam of Lexicon , Jocundo , Roscius , Siddons , Peg Woffington , Sir Thomas , and Sulky . This horse was so named to gratify a little pique against the late Colonel O'Kelly , in allusion to the place of his nativity, ironically called the

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PRECIPITATE

PRECIPITATE

,—a horse of much recent celebrity, whose name was truly applicable to his descent. He was bred by Lord Egremont , foaled in 1787, got by Mercury , (a son of Eclipse ,) dam by Herod , grand-dam ( Maiden ) by Matchem , out of Mr. Pratt's Old Squirt mare. In the first Spring Meeting at Newmarket 1790, when three years old, he won the first class of the Prince's Stakes of 100 guineas each, beating Thunderbolt , Chanticleer , and Sir Pepper ; four having paid forfeit. In the same week he won the Bol

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PREVENTION

PREVENTION

—is in itself a matter of so much magnitude, that it should ever be predominant in the mind of the sportsman and the man of pleasure. Prudence , PATIENCE , and PHILOSOPHY , when properly exerted, are frequently preventives to disease, mental mortification, trouble, expence, and consequent compunction. It is an established and incontrovertible maxim, that PREVENTION is preferable to CURE ; under the influence of which impression (if properly attended to) a very great number of those occurrences,

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PRICKED

PRICKED

.—A horse is said to be pricked , when, in SHOEING , any one of the nails is accidentally or injudiciously driven too near the membranes with which the box of the hoof is lined: this may happen with the most expert operator by a sudden inversion of the point when in its seeming proper direction. A tenderness and halting is also very frequently occasioned by the nails passing close to , and pressing upon , the internal parts, which, by tight clinching , constitutes so great a compression, that pa

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PRICKET

PRICKET

.—The male produce of the BUCK and DOE (fallow deer) is so called at two years old, when he begins to put forth his head....

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PRICKING

PRICKING

—is the unsportsmanlike act of tracking a HARE by the points of her feet, upon the paths and highways, when the hounds are at fault : it is a common practice, and can only be justified where hares are exceedingly scarce, and difficult to be found, with packs very small in number, or deficient in effect; but it is a custom too mean and degrading to be permitted with hounds of eminence, who must kill their game with a reputation untainted , or not kill at all....

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PROBE

PROBE

—is a silver instrument used by SURGEONS and VETERINARIANS , in sounding the depth of cavities, sinusses, fistulas, and wounds: they are, upon unexpected emergencies, so very frequently useful in the country-house, or remote residence of a sportsman, that it should never be without this , and some other trifling instruments of little expence; exclusive of lint, tow, ointments, tinctures, and a few other cordial and diuretic medicines, for which there is sometimes a sudden and unexpected occasion

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PULSE

PULSE

.—In all dangerous and inflammatory diseases of horses, much information may be derived from the state of the PULSE ; in addition to the observations to be made upon the difficulty of respiration, the heaving of the flank, the heat of the mouth, and the state of the eyes. It seems, by the nicest observations, that the pulsations in a healthy horse seldom exceed from forty to forty-five in a minute; exceeding which in any material degree, there is then reason to believe, inflammatory heat is pred

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PURGING

PURGING

—is an operation with horses, upon the propriety, consistency, danger, and utility of which, various opinions have been opposed to each other for half a century past; these, after the public experience of the last fourteen years, seem to have centered in an acknowledged preponderation of its occasional use; and that without its frequent salutary introduction, certain diseases are neither to be prevented or cured. The absolute necessity for sometimes PURGING , is not only now universally admitted

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PURITY

PURITY

—was a mare of distinguished celebrity originally, but rendered much more so, as the dam of the famous horse Rockingham , whose performances will be found under that head. Purity was bred by Mr. Pratt ; foaled in 1774, and got by Matchem out of the old Squirt mare. She was the dam of Rockingham , Archibald , Fitzwilliam , and a filly by Highflyer ; as well as others by Florizel , Magnet , Paymaster , and Saltram . Her dam (the old Squirt mare) produced many racers of the first class: Virgin , Mi

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PURSIVENESS

PURSIVENESS

—is a disorder, or degree of disease, with a difficulty of respiration, beyond the effect of a common cold and cough , but falling short of the malady denominated BROKEN WIND . Pursiveness in a horse bears no ill affinity to the asthmatic complaints of the human species. Although there have been refined distinctions adopted, and definitions attempted, between the symptoms of a cold and the disorder called pursiveness in a horse, yet one is very little more or less than an inveterate stage of the

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QUAILS

QUAILS

—are small birds, found, at certain seasons, in corn fields and stubbles, as well as in the standing crops of backward clover: they partake, in a certain degree, of the game species, as spaniels (that are well bred) instantly feather , and pointers gradually draw to a doubtful POINT , upon winding them, and STAND FIRM if near to the bird. Quails are considered birds of passage, as they are only to be seen in the centrical parts of the kingdom during the four warmest months of the year. They get

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QUALIFICATION

QUALIFICATION

—is both a sporting and parliamentary term for the privilege of killing game, in HUNTING , COURSING , SHOOTING , or by any mode which the qualified party may chuse to adopt; provided it is not repugnant to such other Acts as are still in force for the prevention of POACHING , and those nocturnal depredations by which the game is annually so daringly reduced. This qualification (or exemption from the penalties of former Acts during different reigns) till of very late years, consisted in the full

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QUALIFICATIONS

QUALIFICATIONS

—appertain, in a particular degree, to the subject of RACING upon the TURF , and is used in a certain signification. Plates of 50 l. are given at numerous places of sport, to be run for on certain conditions; some by COLTS and FILLIES of three years old; some four years old; others five and six ; and, lastly, for HORSES of all AGES and QUALIFICATIONS . The precise meaning of which is, that a horse equal in AGE to one or more of his competitors, may be very superior in qualifications; in which ca

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QUARTER (False.)

QUARTER (False.)

—The DEFECT so called in the hoof of a HORSE , is the renovated part of what has been by some accident previously destroyed; and this effort of nature being inadequate, in its regeneration, to the original formation, the quarter of the heel, in its growth, acquires a kind of spongy puffiness or elasticity, accompanied by a CLEFT or CRACK , which prevents a perfect and undivided union with that part of the hoof uninjured, constituting a tender weakness, as well as a permanent blemish, not to be o

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QUARTERS

QUARTERS

.—The fore and hind parts of a horse are frequently so called; for instance, such a horse is beautifully formed in his FORE QUARTERS , but he is exceedingly ill made behind; and some are well proportioned in the gascoins, the hip, the rump, and hocks, but are ill formed and low before. The FORE QUARTERS include the head, neck, breast, withers, and fore legs, to the girths; the HIND QUARTERS comprehend the hips, thighs, hams, hocks, and hind legs....

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QUEST

QUEST

.—Hounds (beagles or harriers) are said to QUEST , when they first give tongue after coming upon trail . Spaniels are said to quest also, when they give tongue in covert, upon coming up to the foot and scent of partridge, pheasant, hare, or cock....

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OUICKSILVER

OUICKSILVER

—is an article of almost incredible medical utility; a full and explanatory description of which will be found under the head Mercury ....

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QUITTOR

QUITTOR

.—The serious injury so denominated, is, in its origin, a painful and inflammatory formation of matter (arising from various causes) at the precise junction of the HAIR with the upper part of the HOOF : this, from the peculiar construction of the parts, particularly if injudiciously conduced, soon degenerates into a virulent, ill-conditioned ULCER , dangerous in its progress, and uncertain in its termination. Treads, blows, and bruises, EXTERNALLY , and a lodgment of gravel, or other extraneous

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QUITTOR-BONE

QUITTOR-BONE

—is a protrusive enlargement upon some part of the CORONET of a HORSE , originating in a ligamentary distortion, fibrous rupture, or internal injury; which continuing to encrease in size to the utmost distention of the integument, it then gradually acquires a certain degree of callosity, and lastly, OSSIFICATION , from whence is derived its present denomination. Custom has established the alternatives of BLISTERING or FIRING , and they not unfrequently succeed each other. A little reflection wil

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RABBIT

RABBIT

—is the well-known animal, bearing some similitude to the HARE in its formation, but no proportional excellence as a luxury for the table. Rabbits are of two kinds, the wild, and domestic; the latter of which are bred in hutches exceedingly tame, and in a sporting view lay claim to no consideration. The wild rabbits are much inferior in size, and many shades lighter in the colour of their fur, than the hare, to whom they have a natural and an invincible aversion; which, in fact, seems to be mutu

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RACE HORSE

RACE HORSE

—Is the kind of horse bred solely for the TURF , and whose blood must be properly authenticated to have descended in a STATE of PURITY from one generation to another, without the least contamination by any accidental or intentional cross whatever. Horses of this description are not entirely selected, as others in general are, by the make , shape , strength , and bone , but in a great degree by the estimation of the blood from which they have descended; and from which circumstance alone is derive

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RACING

RACING

,—in its most common and comprehensive signification, might be supposed to imply racing in general between either MEN or HORSES ; it is, however, in fashionable acceptation, applied principally to the latter, which is a most noble, exhilarating and fascinating enjoyment, to all classes of people, in all parts of the kingdom, during the summer season, when every other field sport is buried in a temporary oblivion, and every species of GAME , HOUNDS , and HUNTERS , are legally at REST . Racing , i

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RACK

RACK

.—The railed convenience constructed above the MANGER in a stable for the reception of the HAY is so called. It should be so formed, as to have alternate openings at the bottom, for the dust and seeds to pass through: and although it is become a practice exceedingly prevalent, to have the rack on one side, instead of the center of the stall, there is no good or rational plea can be advanced in justification of such innovation: on the contrary, it compulsively accustoms the horse to stand with hi

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RAILS LAND

RAILS LAND

,—are birds of passage, of a simply beautiful variegated plumage, in size about midway between a whole snipe and a PARTRIDGE , partaking, in an equal degree of formation, between both, in respect to the shape of the body, head, and beak, which are in a direct line of mediocrity between the two. They are found singly in different parts of England (but very thinly scattered) in the months of July, August, and September, in the standing CORN and CLOVER , but principally in the latter, where, when f

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RAKING

RAKING

—is the old and ridiculous (or rather unnatural) custom of oiling the hand, and introducing it at the SPHINCTER of the ANUS , to extract the indurated dung, when the horse labours under severe inflammatory cholic, arising from previous constipation. The only reason adduced to justify the practice is, its being one means of obtaining immediate relief; and if that relief could be readily obtained to a certainty , the adoption could not with propriety be so totally condemned. The fact is, that this

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RANGER

RANGER

.—This is an office of trust, appertaining to the LAWS of a FOREST , where there are generally two, as principal and deputy ranger; to the latter of whom the executive department more materially extends: it is his peculiar province to take occasional cognizance of all matters within the limits (or what are termed purlieus ) of the forest, and to make presentation of all offences and offenders at the proper courts when held. This is also an office of honor, greatly superior to KEEPERS , BAILIFFS

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RATTLING in the Head

RATTLING in the Head

.—When a horse is heard to rattle in the head, it denotes obstructions, and affords ample proof that a cold has been recently caught, or the glandular secretions impeded. Such rattlings being loud and frequent, (or rather incessant,) with large indurated tumefactions underneath the jaw, accompanied by a slimy, viscid, fœtid, discoloured discharge from the nostrils, danger should be instantly guarded against, as Farcy or Glanders will most probably ensue....

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RAT-TAIL

RAT-TAIL

.—A horse having a long dock, and little or no hair upon it, is said to be rat-tailed. There are not wanting a certain description of sporting speculators, who go a little farther in their definition, adding, most sapiently , that "a rat-tail horse is always a good one."...

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RAT-TAILS

RAT-TAILS

—is a disgusting kind of defect, or disease, which is seldom known to affect any horses, but those of a coarse and gummy constitution: to this internal grossness, and omission in not properly cleansing within, as well as the effect of filth and nastiness without, may be attributed the origin and progress of this very unsightly and vexatious disorder. Rat-tails are parallel lines, running longitudinally from just below the hock, on the outside, to the pastern joint, bearing no dissimilar appearan

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REARING

REARING

—is the most dangerous vice of all a restive horse retains in the catalogue of his untoward qualifications : it is generally termed REARING an END , and when carried to the extreme, is hazardous beyond description; as it is hardly possible for the best horseman existing to keep his seat, when a horse repeatedly assumes that unnatural position. Recent instances have occurred directly opposite in their consequences; one in which the RIDER was killed ; in the other, the horse. In such an alarming a

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RECHASING

RECHASING

—is a sporting term, but little known, and never used, except in the official language of a forest and its environs. Rechasing is the discovery and driving home of outlying deer, and other beasts, to the district from whence they had strayed....

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RECHEAT

RECHEAT

—is a recall of the hounds with the horn....

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REGULUS

REGULUS

,—the name of a horse whose performances upon the turf , and celebrity as a STALLION , were never exceeded in this kingdom. He was bred by Lord Chedworth , and foaled in 1739. He was got by the Godolphin Arabian ; his dam by the Bald Galloway , grand-dam by Snake , out of Old Wilkes , a daughter of Old Hautboy . Regulus won seven ROYAL plates in one year, and never was beat. He afterwards covered in the north, and was the sire of Adolphus , Trajan , the dam of Eclipse , the grand-dam of Highflye

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REINS

REINS

—are the parts of a bridle which are affixed to the eyes of the bit, or bits, on each side a horse's mouth, pass up the horse's neck, and are united at the reverse end, where the junction of both are held in the hand of the rider. A snaffle-bridle, and a hard-and-sharp, have each of them two reins; a Pelham and a Weymouth have each four....

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REINS

REINS

.—The reins of a horse are the parts where the kidnies are seated; and the word is generally used in a synonymous sense with loins . When a disorder arises, or a defect is observed, in these parts, it may be supposed to have originated in some short and sudden turn in a narrow stall; carrying too heavy a weight, or drawing too large a load. Whenever such injury is sustained, a difficulty of staling, partial dribblings, or the urine very high-coloured, and tinged with blood, will soon point out t

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REINS Pillar

REINS Pillar

.—Those affixed to the centrical pillars of a RIDING SCHOOL are so called; as are those likewise, by which the horse is kept confined ready for his rider, when saddled, bridled, and turned round in his stall....

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RELAY

RELAY

.—A relay of HORSES is a supply of fresh ones fixed at some particular spot, to exchange either upon a journey, or during the chase. A relay of HOUNDS more particularly applies to hunting excursions, where a part of the pack is alternately detached to a certain place of destination, that, by a relay of both HORSES and HOUNDS , the sport may be continued daily, without intermission, during the week....

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REPOSITORIES

REPOSITORIES

—are placed in the metropolis, where horses are received for PUBLIC or PRIVATE sale, and where they are regularly bought and sold by AUCTION , on certain days in every week. This is an accommodation of so much convenience and utility to those who have occasion either to BUY or to SELL suddenly, that the succession of horses is incessant, and the PROPRIETORS never feel a want of public patronage. The three long-established repositories are Tattersal's , near Hyde Park Corner ; Aldridge's , in St.

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RESTIVE

RESTIVE

.—A horse is said to be RESTIVE , not merely because he is obstinate and untractable, but because there is a tendency to vice; or he is constitutionally inclined to add mischief to ill-temper. Horses of this disposition are sometimes incorrigible, and are never broken of so dangerous and (frequently) destructive a quality. When young horses first begin to display appearances of RESTIVENESS , in not passing particular objects or places, turning round, running back, or rearing an end, lenient mean

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RETAIN

RETAIN

—is a term applicable only to the act of propagation between a HORSE and MARE : when the mare is stinted , and will receive the horse no more, she is then said to retain , (the masculine semen,) and considered safe in respect to conception, and the future production of a foal....

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RHEUMATISM

RHEUMATISM

.—That horses are afflicted with pains similar to those of the human species, is long since established beyond all power of controversy and contradiction. Dr. Darwin fixes its seat in the tendinous coats of the muscles, and attributes the pain to inspissated mucus left upon their surface; acting in the motion of the limbs as some extraneous substance, exciting extreme irritability and symptomatic inflammation. Horses are not only constantly liable to, but frequently attacked with, this disorder,

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RIBS

RIBS

.—The ribs of a horse are too well known to require description; it being only applicable to observe, that the conformation of the carcase in a material degree constitutes one feature of the complexion requisite to the standard of beauty. A horse should have a round barrel (or body) to be handsome; if he is flat in the ribs, he is then said to be flat carcased, is generally tucked up, high in the hip-bones, hollow in the flank, and commonly a bad feeder, particularly after a little hard work , w

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RIDGES

RIDGES

.—The transverse wrinkles (or bars) across the roof of a horse's mouth are so called. In all matters of emergency, accidents, or sudden indisposition, when a farrier cannot be expeditiously obtained, or a fleam procured, an incision across the fourth or fifth ridge with even a common penknife, will always prove a very convenient extemporaneous substitute for a more plentiful evacuation....

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RIDING-SCHOOL

RIDING-SCHOOL

—is a convenient receptacle, with every accommodation for riding in the winter season, and where the young of both sexes are taught to ride by proper masters. Of these there are many in the Metropolis of much celebrity; among the most eminent are Captain Carter's , near Grosvernor Square; Mr. Cowling's , Moorfields; Mr. Jones's , Royal Circus; Mr. Astley's Amphitheatre, Westminster Bridge; Mr. Hall's , Piccadilly; and Mr. Davis's , in Edgware Road; at most of which horses are completely broke an

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RIG

RIG

.—A horse is so called upon whom the operation of CASTRATION has been ill performed; by leaving one of the TESTES , or so much of the EPIDIDYMIS , behind, as enables him to become exceedingly teazing and troublesome to mares, either in the field or stable. There have been instances of COLTS having been cut by ignorant and illiterate operators, who, by letting one of the testes recede during the process, it has remained, and the horse then retains the power of propagating; many such having been k

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RING-BONE

RING-BONE

—is an ossified enlargement upon the pastern, originating in a ligamentary twist, and consequent protrusion, at the junction of the pastern with the coronary-bone; it forms a callous substance soon after the injury, and ossifies in a very short time. Some horses do moderate work without much seeming inconvenience; others become lame, and frequently continue so, in opposition to every endeavour at alleviation or cure. A ring-bone seldom submits to either the strongest REPELLENTS , SOLVENTS , or B

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ROAN

ROAN

.—A horse is called a roan in colour, when his coat seems to be formed of the mixed combination of sorrel and white hairs in nearly an equal proportion. Horses of this description are, in general, of no great attraction, although they may prove equal in execution with others of every colour: the prevalence of opinion, however, is, that they are weaker in constitution, less likely to work, and more subject to disease....

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ROCKINGHAM

ROCKINGHAM

.—This horse, now in so much estimation as a STALLION , proved himself, by his performances, to be one of the best bred and best bottomed of any this kingdom ever produced. He was bred in the north, by Mr. Pratt , foaled in 1781; and got by Highflyer , out of Purity , who was got by Matchem , out of Mr. Pratt's old Squirt mare. In 1784, when three years old, he won a sweepstakes at Nottingham of 50 guineas each, 3 subscribers. In 1785, when Mr. Wentworth's , he won a match for 500 guineas over t

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ROUSE

ROUSE

,—a term in STAG HUNTING : when an out-lying deer is found by the hounds in covert, he is said to be ROUSED . When a deer is carted , and carried to any particular spot for sport, and there liberated, he is then said to be TURNED OUT . For instance, we draw the COVERTS , and ROUSE a deer. We try for and unkennel a FOX ; or we take trail , and START A HARE ....

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ROWEL

ROWEL

.—The small circular star, with sharp points, moving upon a pivot at the heel of the spur, is so called, and which the horse, in breaking, is taught to obey....

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ROWEL in a Horse

ROWEL in a Horse

,—is a well-known operation, resorted to upon every possible occasion by common farriers, as "a salve for every SORE ;" where they have neither judgment to guide or discretion to direct them. It is performed by making an incision through the skin, large enough to admit the point of a finger, which is then insinuated all round the orifice between the skin and the flesh, as far as the extent of the finger can conveniently reach. A thin round piece of leather being previously provided, about the si

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RULES in Buying

RULES in Buying

—will be found very largely explained under the head, Horse ....

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RUNNING HORSES

RUNNING HORSES

.—See Horse Racing , Newmarket , Jockey Club , King's Plate , and Racing ....

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RUNNING THRUSH

RUNNING THRUSH

.—The defect so called, is a varicous state of the centrical cleft of the frog, from whence oozes a fœtid corrosive ichor, which continues to putrify and destroy the whole, in proportion to the length of time it is neglected. In many instances, where the frog seems hard and sound upon the surface, the confined acrid cause is corroding underneath, and frequently breaks out on either side; when which is the case, the hard and horny part must be superficially removed, so that the proper application

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RUT

RUT

.—The DEER of both descriptions (red and fallow) are said to go to RUT , at the particular season of VENERY and COPULATION ....

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RUTTING TIME

RUTTING TIME

—commences the latter end of August, and continues to the first and second week in October; during which both the STAG and BUCK assume a degree of courageous boldness in approaching man, that they never display at any other time of the year. At this season their necks swell; they range from one place to another incessantly, in seeming search of some object to attack; the voice of the stag is loud and alarming, to those who have not been accustomed to hear it. When opposed, they are so exceedingl

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SADDLE

SADDLE

—is the well-known mechanical construction formed for the mutual accommodation and safety of both the HORSE and the RIDER . Although historical records prove them to have been in use with the ancients, there is no demonstrative reason to believe they were established in England till the reign of Henry the Seventh , when they were adopted under a compulsory law, that the nobility should not ride without them. Saddles are of different sorts, according to the distinct services for which they are de

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SADDLE-BACKED

SADDLE-BACKED

.—A horse is so termed, when the RUMP-BONE rises so high behind, in conformity with the WITHERS before, that a hollow (or rather a complete curve) is formed in the middle, as a natural receptacle for the Saddle. Horses of this description are mostly, in action, easy and pleasant to the rider; but they are invariably weaker in the loins than those of an opposite description....

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SADDLE-GALLED

SADDLE-GALLED

.—This is an injury frequently sustained by horses either in the FIELD with HOUNDS , or in JOURNIES upon the ROAD ; and can only happen by the inattention , neglect , or penury , of the OWNER , in not affording occasional precaution and inspection to the state of the pad , as well as to the first and safe FITTING of the SADDLE . It cannot but be known to the most superficial observer, that the padding of every saddle becomes progressively harder, in proportion to the perspirative matter it absor

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SALLENDERS

SALLENDERS

—are at the bend of the hock (or hough) behind, exactly what the MALLENDERS are at the back of the knee; for which the modes of treatment and means of cure are precisely the same. See Mallenders ....

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SALTRAM

SALTRAM

,—the name of a horse who acquired considerable celebrity by his performances upon the TURF , since which he has stood as a STALLION in a proportional degree of estimation. He was foaled in 1780; got by Eclipse , dam ( Virago ) by Snap grand-dam by Regulus , out of a sister to Black and all Black . He was sire of his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales's St. David , the Duke of York's Laurustina , and the Duke of Bedford's Sprightly , Lord Grosvenor's Brown Filly (out of Sting ,) who won five pri

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SANDCRACK

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 expe

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SCAB

SCAB

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

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SCENT

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 effl

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SCHIRROUS

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 natu

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SCIATICA

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....

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SCOURING

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....

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SCRATCHES

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

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SCUT

SCUT

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

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SEAMS

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....

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SEAT

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

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SETONS

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

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SETTING DOG

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 Eng

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SETTER

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....

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SETTER-TO

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 ....

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SHANK-BONE

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."...

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SHAPE and MAKE

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 ,

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SHARK

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 ti

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SHOEING of HORSES

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 hav

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SHOEING SMITH

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 cou

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SHOOTING

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 signific

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SHOULDER-LAMENESS

SHOULDER-LAMENESS

,—in a horse, is a defect in the scapularian muscles, or at the ligamentary junction of the fore thigh-bone with the concave point of the shoulder blade, upon which many, and some opposite opinions have been obstinately maintained: and there are not wanting at the present moment, those who affect to believe, and presume to affirm, "there is no such thing as a shoulder lameness in any horse." The absurdity of this ridiculous and contemptible assertion, can only be equalled by the unparalleled ign

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SIDE-SADDLE

SIDE-SADDLE

.—The saddle upon which women ride is so called. The injuries horses sustain by the use of these saddles, when not properly attended to, exceed conception. It is well known by those who are much in public, and make their occasional observations as they ride, that most of the women about the Metropolis (who, it may be presumed, are taught in the schools) ride exceedingly ill , and to a spectator, most mortifyingly ungraceful ; or, in words more expressive and explanatory, they bear near their who

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SIGNS of DISEASE

SIGNS of DISEASE

—are various in horses, as influenced by the different sensations originating in the peculiar disorder of which they are the prognostics. One leading sign of internal pain or disquietude in a horse is, the refusal of his FOOD , a drooping of the head , a dulness of the eyes , a general bodily lassitude , and a seeming dislike to action . These are evident signs of indisposition, and should always prove an immediate stimulus to necessary examination, which cannot be made too soon, as many horses

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SINEWS

SINEWS

—is the fashionable and common term for the tendinous coat of the muscles extending from the back of a horse's knee to the fetlock joint, when which is in any degree elongated by strain , twist , or any other accident, the horse is then said to be broken down in the BACK SINEWS . The sinews or tendons are liable at all times to violent spasmodic contractions (see Cramp ) not only in any one of the extremities, but throughout the whole body; the immediate and remote causes of which are hitherto u

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SIR PETER TEAZLE

SIR PETER TEAZLE

,—the name of the most celebrated STALLION at present in the kingdom; his blood, performances, and progeny, being reckoned inferior to none, and superior to most of those who have ever appeared upon the turf. He was foaled in 1784; bred by the Earl of Derby , got by Highflyer , dam ( Papillon ) by Snap , grand-dam by Regulus , who was got by the Godolphin Arabian . At three and four years old he was the best of his time, beating every opponent, and winning stakes to a great amount. The second da

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SIR SOLOMON

SIR SOLOMON

,—the name of a horse of much recent racing reputation: he was got by Sir Peter Teazle , dam ( Matron ) by Florizel , who was got by Herod . Sir Solomon was bred by Earl Fitzwilliam, foaled in 1796, and started for six different three year old stakes, (in the name of Tankersley ,) always running in a capital form, and in a good place, but without winning once in that year. He was then purchased by Mr. Johnson , and started 1800 for the King's Plate at Nottingham (with his new name) which he won

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SITFAST

SITFAST

.—A sitfast is an eschar upon the side of a horse, which having been originally a warble, from the pressure and friction of the girth-buckle, (indiscreetly permitted to come upon, or near to, the edge of the pad,) is, by a repetition of the injury, converted into a sitfast ; or, in terms of easier comprehension, a circular or oblong space of the integument, so completely cauterized by the repeated heat and friction, that it bears all the appearance of a piece of burnt leather inserted upon the s

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SKITTISH

SKITTISH

.—A horse is said to be SKITTISH , who is considerably above himself both in spirit and condition ; displaying much more of pleasure in exercise, and the enjoyment of air and conditional freedom, (from the narrow confines of a stable,) than the least tendency to habitual vice . A skittish horse will jump two or three feet at the flight of a sparrow, or dance a saraband upon the rumbling approach of a carriage: he is (unless weary with work) always alive with gaiety and motion , without the least

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SKYSCRAPER

SKYSCRAPER

,—the name of a horse of much present celebrity: he was bred by the late Duke of Bedford , and got by Highflyer out of Everlasting . In the Craven Meeting, at Newmarket, 1789, when two years old, he received forfeit from three for a sweepstakes of 200 guineas each across the flat. The same Meeting he beat Mr. Fox's Maid of all Work across the flat for 500 guineas. The second Spring Meeting (then three years old) he won the Prince's Stakes of 100 guineas each, eight subscribers; the Derby Stakes

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SLOT

SLOT

.—The impression of a deer's foot upon the earth, so as to be perceptible, is then called a slot ; and when, in consequence of storms, rain, sleet, or extreme drought, the hounds cannot carry on the scent, the huntsman and his assistants have no alternative, but to avail themselves of every possible clue and information from the SLOT , to prevent the disgrace of the HOUNDS being beat , and the deer lost ....

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SMITHFIELD

SMITHFIELD

—is the name of a most celebrated spot in the Metropolis, from which a SPORTSMAN is not likely to derive either pleasure or emolument ; unless it is in the purchase of diseased or emaciated subjects for his HOUNDS . To those in remote parts of the kingdom, it may not be inapplicable to be informed, that Smithfield is the great CATTLE MARKET for the consumption of the infinite body of inhabitants in the cities of London, Westminster, their suburbs, and the environs for some miles round. The princ

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SNAFFLE

SNAFFLE

.—The simplest and plainest BRIDLE-BIT is so called: it consists of only a single mouthpiece, having a joint in the middle, with a cheek of different lengths at each extremity, and an eye annexed to receive the reins; when which are added, it is then called a SNAFFLE (or single-reined) BRIDLE . When snaffle-bits are made very large in the mouth for breaking colts or fillies, they are then called MOUTHING-BITS ....

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SNAP

SNAP

,—the name of a horse, as a STALLION , formerly held in high estimation: he was bred by the late Earl of Sandwich ; foaled in 1750; got by Snip ; dam by Fox , grand-dam by Bay Bolton ; from which the blood of both sire and dam may be traced to most of the Barbs and Turks ever brought to this country. There were also three others of this name, distinguished by different appellations; as Lord Chedworth's Snap ; Wildman's Snap ; and Latham's Snap . The first was got by Old Snap ; his dam by Dormous

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SNIPES

SNIPES

—are well known to the sporting world in winter shooting, and are of two sorts; one nearly as large again as the other, though precisely the same in shape, make, feather, and formation. They frequent the same places, subsist on the same food, and are frequently found near to each other. The larger is called a whole snipe ; the smaller, a Jack ; the latter of which is not very easily killed, at least by an indifferent shot; of which some proof was recently given by a gentleman of Easthampstead, i

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SNORTING

SNORTING

.—is a cartilaginous propulsion of sound from the nostrils of a horse, which he avails himself of at different times, to signify sensations seemingly opposite to each other. Upon being led from the light, through a gloomy passage, to a still more gloomy stable, he is frequently observed to SNORT either from fear or surprize; meeting or coming suddenly upon a new, strange or unnatural object, he snorts from absolute dread of injury; taken into a stable or out-house smelling musty, from foul dung

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SOILING

SOILING

,—in the more confined signification, applies merely to the supplying a horse with grass, clover, tares, lucern, fain-foin, or rye, cut green, and brought to the stable for his daily consumption; but in a more general acceptation it extends to the act of turning him out in a plentiful pasture, and in the genial season, when and where he may enjoy all the advantages of which the frame is susceptible. It cannot but be known, that liberty, so dear to us, and to every part of the creation, must be e

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SOLE

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 in

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SORREL

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,

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SOUNDNESS

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 increas

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SPANIEL

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 l

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SPARRING

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,

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SPAVIN-BLOOD

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

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SPAVIN-BONE

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 BLIS

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SPAYED BITCH

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....

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SPEED

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

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SPLENT

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 vibr

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SPORTSMAN

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

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SPRAIN or STRAIN

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,

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SPUR

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....

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STABLE

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 ho

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STAG, or RED DEER.

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 , ind

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STAG

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 ....

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STAG-EVIL

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

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STAGGERS

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

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STAG-HUNTING

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 befor

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STALING

STALING

—is the evacuation of urine by either horse or mare, which is at some times partially obstructed, and at others totally suppressed. The secretion of urine may be retarded from a variety of causes; such as injuries sustained in the spine, particularly in the LOINS , near which the kidnies are seated; and these, from their irritability, are also easily susceptible of disease, by which the discharge may be affected. The urine, with a horse or mare in a healthy state, should flow in a moderate strea

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STALL

STALL

.—The partitions into which a stable is divided are denominated STALLS ; and the space allotted to each horse is called a stall. These, in stables constructed with judgment, and erected with a necessary respect to health and convenience, should never be less than nine or ten feet high, and six feet wide: the heighth will contribute much to the equal temperature of the air; and the width will contribute to the comfort of the horse in an occasional extension of his extremities, as well as prevent

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STALLION

STALLION

—is the appellation given to a perfect horse, not mutilated by the operation of castration , but preserved in a state of nature, for the purpose of propagation. Stallions should be of great strength, according to the distinct breed they are intended to promote, of correct shape, uniform make, and corresponding symmetry; free from every kind of hereditary taint; good eyes, long forehand, short back, round barrel, wide chest, straight legs, free from splents before, and spavins behind. Although it

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STANDARD

STANDARD

—is the name of an instrument by which the exact heighth of a horse is taken (to the eighth of an inch) when engaged to carry weight for inches , or entered to run for a GIVE and TAKE PLATE . The standard is about six feet six inches high, and so constructed with a line and pendulum, in the centre of a circle, that no mismeasurement, by fraud or imposition, can take place. The standard is one straight square piece of oak or mahogany, and divided, from the top to the bottom, in figured spaces of

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STAR

STAR

—is the white centrical spot in the forehead of a horse, directly between, and rather above, the eyes. These are considered great natural ornaments in bays , chestnuts , browns , and blacks ; inducing DEALERS to remedy the deficiencies of nature by the obtrusion of art. This is effected by scraping off the hair carefully with a razor, from the part where the intended star is to appear, when, by wetting the surface with oil of vitriol, an eschar will soon appear, when which exfoliates, it is foll

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STARING of the COAT

STARING of the COAT

.—This external appearance in a horse, so strikingly denotes him out of condition , or diseased , that it never escapes the eye of the most superficial observer. It is originally occasioned by a sudden collapsion of the porous system, from an exposure to cold chilling rains, after having been previously heated; a change from a warm stable to one less comfortable, and a consequent viscidity of the blood; or from a low, impoverished, and acrimonious state of the circulation. See Hidebound , Surfei

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STARTING

STARTING

,—in horses, is an imperfection, if it becomes habitual, that is of the most dangerous description. It is exceedingly different from a horse skittish , wanton , and playful only, for which the rider is always prepared; and if a good horseman, it is generally as pleasing to one as to the other. But when a horse is eternally in fear, and alarmed at every object unlike himself, he not only sometimes snorts and stops suddenly in the midst of a rapid career of either trot or gallop , but, by an insta

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STERN

STERN

.—The tail of the HOUND , or GREYHOUND , is sportingly so called....

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STEW

STEW

—is a small reservoir of water, to which fish are brought from larger receptacles where they are bred or caught, and there deposited for the daily use of the family, the supply being constantly kept up in proportion to the domestic consumption....

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STIFLE

STIFLE

.—The part of a horse called the stifle, is the projecting point of the hind-quarter, which comes forward under the flank towards the belly, forming an angular joint from the round bone above to the hock below. Injuries are not often sustained at this junction; and when they are, it is much oftener by neglect, a blow, or inadvertence, than by unavoidable accident. Lameness in this part can receive no assistance from bandage; fomentation, embrocation, and rest, are the only means that can be adop

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STIRRUP

STIRRUP

—is the well-known polished iron convenience suspended from each side of the saddle; of a proper shape, make, and size, to receive and support the foot, for the joint promotion of ease and safety. Upon the length of the leather strap (called stirrup-leather) entirely depends the graceful position of the rider, and his command of the horse; if which is too short , he is in danger, upon any start or sudden exertion of the horse, of being thrown over his head: if they are too long , he is in an equ

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STONE

STONE

.—This is a sporting term upon the TURF , and used in matches , plates , and sweepstakes , to denote or imply what weight each horse is to carry; that is, so many STONE , so many POUNDS . Every stone is fourteen pounds, and this is called "horseman's weight," in contra-distinction to a common stone, of eight pounds, by which meat, and other articles in trade, are sold....

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STOAT

STOAT

.—The stoat is a most mischievous little animal, very much resembling the weasel, and at a small distance, when running, not to be readily distinguished from each other. They abound near large farms surrounded with corn-ricks and faggot-piles, under each of which they ensure to a certainty never-failing protection. This diminutive pest, though but from two to three inches in heighth, (ten inches long, the tail half the length of its body, disgustingly hairy, and pointed with black, the edges of

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STRAIN

STRAIN

.—See Sprain ....

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STRANGLES

STRANGLES

—is a disorder to which young horses in general are always liable, and few or none escape, any more than children escape the small-pox, hooping-cough, or measles. It first displays itself in a heaviness of the head, a dulness of the eyes, a reluctance to action, a heat in the mouth, and a gradually declining appetite: this is followed by a swelling in the concavity beneath the under jaw, which being centrical, is sometimes surrounded by two or three tumefactions of smaller formation. These, in t

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STRANGURY

STRANGURY

—is a temporary suppression of urine in horses, brought on more by the indiscretion of their riders or drivers, than any morbid affection, or constitutional defect in the horse. It may proceed from a spasmodic stricture upon the sphincter, or the neck of the bladder, occasioned by a too long retention of urine; in continuing an immoderate length of time on the road, or in the field, during which the distrest animal has no opportunity to stale; as well as from a slight inflammation, or tendency t

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STRING-HALT

STRING-HALT

.—This defect in a horse is a kind of spasmodic jerk, or sudden twitching of one or other of the hind-legs in action, and has been, in different opinions, attributed to various causes, and probably by none to the right; as there is no one disorder, disease, defect, or imperfection, to which the horse is liable, upon the origin, progress, or cure of which so little has been introduced. It is conjecturally said by some "to be brought on by sudden colds, after severe riding or hard labour, particul

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STUBBED

STUBBED

.—A horse is said to have sustained this injury, when in hunting amongst the stumps of newly cut coverts and underwood, he is punctured, cut, or bruised, in any part of the foot, coronet, or fetlock, by some of the infinity of stubs with which newly cut copses so plentifully abound. When accidents of this kind happen, the applications must depend entirely upon the magnitude of the injury received. In all slight cases, amounting to little more than simple laceration, Friar's balsam, tincture of m

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STUD

STUD

—is a term applicable to three distinct meanings, and is so used in its different significations. A stud, in its more extended acceptation, applies to an aggregate collection of horses, without giving priority to any particular sort; as the person having a great number of horses, is said to have a very large stud ; but the term, in its divided and sub-divided state, proves more extensively comprehensive. One is in possession of a very expensive RACING STUD ; another has a numerous STUD of HUNTER

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STUD-BOOK

STUD-BOOK

—is the hereditary deposit of PEDIGREE , transmitted from one generation to another, and punctually preserved by the proprietor of every RACING STUD of eminence in the kingdom; in which may be retraced the exact lineal descent of each HORSE and MARE , from the earliest time in which racing blood began to bear a promise of estimation. From a most industrious and elaborate accumulative collection of these, Mr. Weatherby has given to the public, a full, clear, explanatory and well-authenticated ped

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STUMBLING

STUMBLING

—is so great an imperfection in a horse, that it affects his intrinsic worth, in proportion to the readiness with which it is perceived. Horses having short forehands, large heads, and thick shoulders, are the most subject to this defect of any other formation: those low at the point of the withers, (which is called being lower before than behind ,) in addition to the deficiencies already mentioned, are the worst of stumblers ; the whole forming such a combination of bad points , as not to leave

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SURBATING

SURBATING

—is a term getting into disuse, and with the last of the old school of farriery will in a few years be buried in total oblivion: this it well deserves to be, as a word without either meaning or derivation. Insignificant as it sounds, it has been, till within a very few years, used to signify a hoof so battered , bruised , and worn , with bad shoeing, bad shoes, and sometimes with no shoes at all , that the horse, having hardly any feet to stand upon, was then said to be surbated ; which, in more

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SURFEIT

SURFEIT

.—In respect to the disease in horses so called, it seems, with most veterinary writers of the preceding and present time, to be an almost indefinite or undefined term. It is not only differently described, but attributed to various causes; without the superfluous investigation of which, it is only necessary to observe, that it is the effect of acrimonious morbidity in the blood, possessing gradational shades of progress, in a corresponding degree with what is denominated scurvy in the frame of

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SWAINMOTE

SWAINMOTE

—is a peculiar court, appertaining solely to the LAWS of a forest , and held three times within the year. In this court the Verderers preside in the official capacity of Judges; for although the Warden, or his deputy, may take their seats in the court, they have no judicial authority there. The court of Swainmote may enquire of offences, receive informations, and proceed to conviction; but judgment is not within the limits of this court; their province extends no farther than to hear and convict

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SWEAT

SWEAT

—is the transpiration of perspirative matter through the skin by the effect of an increased circulation of the blood. This, in a moderate degree, is so conducive to the promotion of HEALTH , that those horses who regularly enjoy exercise to a proper state of perspiration, occasionally, and at proper times, are always in the highest condition; provided they are taken care of in proportion to the exercise each has had, or the work he has undergone. By the appearance of a horse in a high perspirati

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SWEATING for the TURF

SWEATING for the TURF

—is a sporting ceremony with training-grooms, to which, in their opinion, no small probable consequence is attached; as is fully confirmed by the invariable punctuality with which it is performed. The two reasons assigned for the necessity of this operation, is to preserve the WIND in its proper state of purity , and to prevent a superfluous and improper accumulation of FLESH . Horses in training are (in strict conformity with this intent) sweated at certain periods, or intervals, of six, seven

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SWEATING of JOCKIES

SWEATING of JOCKIES

—is a ceremony which every JOCKEY is under the necessity of going through when engaged to ride, and the horse is to carry less than his own natural weight. For the reduction of weight, jockies are obliged to encounter great inconveniencies, particularly when they have much to lose, and a very short time to lose it in. The means of reducing themselves to the weight required are various, and depend upon the greater or lesser quantity they wish to lose in a given time, and have to waste themselves

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SWELLED LEGS

SWELLED LEGS

.—See Legs Swelled , Humours , and Grease ....

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SWELLING in the Sheath or Groin

SWELLING in the Sheath or Groin

,—of a horse externally in good health, and without any predominant symptoms of pain or disquietude, is sometimes of little consequence; denoting no more than a general plethora, or distension of the vessels, which immediate bleeding, followed by gentle friction, and moderate evacuants, may be expected to remove: but if it makes its appearance at the crisis of any inflammatory disorder, of either liver, lungs, or kidnies, it may be considered a very unfavourable prognostic, and the worst is yet

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SWAN

SWAN

.—The swan, as the most majestic and distinguished of all water fowl, is honoured with royal protection: those who disturb their nests, destroy their eggs, or injure, wound, or cripple the swans, are liable to imprisonment for twelve months, and a fine at the pleasure of the King. The corporate body of the City of London, as CONSERVATORS of the River Thames , have an annual aquatic excursion to Staines, (which is the western extremity of their boundaries,) in the most pleasant and most plentiful

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TAIL

TAIL

.—Upon the uniform shape and setting on of a horse's tail, his good or ill appearance greatly depends. When the spine is continued in a curvilinear direction beyond the rump, and the basis of the tail is formed too low in the quarters, the horse is termed "goose-rumped;" and no nicking , or setting , will ever give him the figure of a handsome horse behind . It has been a long-standing maxim, that "a good horse can't be of a bad colour;" and there may probably be some who think a good horse can'

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TARTAR

TARTAR

—was an excellent racer, and the most celebrated stallion of his time. He was bred by Mr. Leedes , foaled in 1743; was got by Partner , out of Meliora , who was got by Fox , out of Milkmaid . Tartar was sire of the famous King Herod , Beaufremont , Miner , and Colonel O'Kelly's mare the dam of Maria , Antiochus , Venus , Jupiter , Mercury , Volunteer , &amp;c. &amp;c. Tartar , called Wildman's Tartar , was a horse of some note likewise; he was bred by Sir J. Moore, foaled in 1758, and go

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TARTAR EMETIC

TARTAR EMETIC

—is one of the most powerful, and, in respect to horses, one of the most prostituted medicines in the whole MATERIA MEDICA : its name here is only introduced, and its properties described, that the SPORTING WORLD , as well as individuals, may be sufficiently guarded against its dangerous effects, if injudiciously administered, or secretly brought into use, by practitioners of little knowledge, and less celebrity, who, knowing no more of its preparation than its name, know less of its effects tha

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TEAL

TEAL

—is a well-known wild fowl, much esteemed for the table. A teal is of the form, shape, and make of the wild duck and widgeon, but a degree smaller than the latter, which is equally so from the former....

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TEETH

TEETH

—are the arrangement of small bones in the mouth of a horse, for the particular purpose of mastication; and by which the AGE also may be ascertained. (See Colt .) The teeth are of a much harder texture than any other bones in the body, which seems to have been necessary for the execution of the office they are assigned by Nature. A horse come to maturity, is in possession of forty teeth, (including the tushes,) which are thus distinguished: four-and-twenty of these are called grinders , and situ

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TENDONS

TENDONS

—are the elastic covering of the muscles, composed of an infinity of fibres, which, in their aggregate, form a substance of great strength, and appropriate contraction and elongation, for all the purposes of expansion and flexibility. The tendons in a horse most liable to injury and accident, are those passing down the shank-bone of the fore-legs, from nearly the back of the knee, to their seat of insertion at the fetlock joint, which are in general known by the name of the back sinews . These,

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TERMS in SPORTING

TERMS in SPORTING

—are, in general, the same through every part of the kingdom; except some few provincial deviations in distant districts, remote from the centrical parts near the Metropolis. When going out with hounds in the morning, and reaching the place of meeting, we throw off (or cast off) the hounds; we rouse a deer, unkennel a fox, or start a hare. When a hound challenges who can be relied upon, he has taken scent of a deer, drag of a fox, or trail of a hare. If a hound quests (that is, gives tongue) wit

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TERRIER

TERRIER

.—The terrier may naturally be concluded to have derived his name from the avidity with which he takes the earth; particularly when in pursuit of his own game, which is vermin of every kind, without distinction. To the fox, badger, polecat, weasel, rat, and even the poor domestic cat, the terrier is a most implacable enemy. For the purposes of BADGER BAITING , they have, by the lower classes, been crossed, and bred in and in with the bull-dog, which has enlarged the produce of those crosses, and

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THRUSHES

THRUSHES

—are defects in the centrical part of the frogs, which having, by neglect, been permitted to get into a rotten and decayed state, they ooze from the middle a most offensive acrid ichor; and this, unless it is properly cleansed and counteracted, will continue to corrode the parts underneath, till the foundation of the frog is totally destroyed. It has been, and still is, too much the practice with the ignorant and illiterate, to oppose the efforts of Nature, instead of rendering her judicious and

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TIRING

TIRING

is so bad a quality in any horse, in fact, a circumstance so little likely to occur, that, when it does happen, (unless by some improper, cruel, or immoderate riding,) indisposition, or latent internal defect, may be naturally looked to as the particular cause. In all cases of this kind, bleeding, a cordial ball, a malt mash, and a little nursing, seem the only means most likely to promote a speedy restoration of strength and spirits....

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TOBY

TOBY

—was a horse of much recent celebrity as a RACER , and has since covered as a STALLION in some estimation. He was bred by Mr. Bullock ; was got by Highflyer , dam by Matchem . In 1789, when three years old, he won 100 guineas at Newmarket, 200 guineas at Epsom, and 1100 guineas at York, beating six others. In 1790, he beat Euphrosyne across the flat at Newmarket for 500 guineas. The next Meeting he beat Sir W. Aston's Marcia , the same Course, 200 guineas. In 1791, he did not start. In 1792, Cra

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TOILS

TOILS

.—Park nets, of great strength and magnitude, are so called. They are used in taking deer alive, for removal from one park to another; or from his Majesty's parks to the hunting paddocks at Swinley Lodge, in Windsor Forest, for the purposes of the chase....

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TONGUE

TONGUE

.—The tongue of a horse is sometimes lacerated by the bit of the bridle being too narrow in the mouth-piece; as also by the frequent petulant jerks of the rider. These, which are slight in the first instance, are occasionally repeated, till they become perfect cadaverous ulcers, with a slough (similar to a sitfast) in the middle of each. In cases of this description, the tongue should be held on one side, while the part is daily touched with a strong solution of borax in water, till the slough i

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TRACK

TRACK

—is the term used to imply the footmark of either man or beast; but, in the language of the field, it admits of some deviations. We track a man, a horse, an ox, or an ass; we slot a deer; we foot a fox; and we prick a hare....

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TRAIL, or TRAILING

TRAIL, or TRAILING

,—appertains solely to HARE HUNTING ; by which, in general, the hare is found and started from her form . Soon after hounds are thrown off , some one or more are quickly observed to give tongue ; this the old and best hounds immediately attend to, and instantly join, which is called taking trail : but whether such trail arises from perspirative particles adhering to the line of her works during the night from her feet only, or whether it is produced from the lungs by transpiration, and only part

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TRAIN SCENTS

TRAIN SCENTS

,—formerly so called, but now more frequently termed drags , are means by which young hounds may be first entered with old hounds; a body of hounds exercised upon heaths or commons, soon after dawn of day in the summer season: or bets may be decided upon the speed of either HOUNDS or HORSES , by means of such drag or train scent . They are of different kinds, and very few hounds will refuse to hunt them: when the scent lies well, the wind is still, and the atmosphere free from variation by storm

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TRAINING

TRAINING

.—The process of training horses for the TURF was formerly plain, simple, open, and free from mystery or ambiguity. Circumstances, however, are so altered, and fashions have so changed, that a training-stable exceeds in secrecy the inmost recesses of his Majesty's Councils, upon which the prosperity and peace of so great a nation entirely depend. A training-stable is, in the opinion of those who conduct them, the very summit of earthly dignity and imaginary consequence. The "insolence of office,

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TRAMMELS

TRAMMELS

—are a collection of side and cross-lines, having leather loops at the ends, with which horses are trammelled for the operations of nicking , docking , cropping , &amp;c....

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TRAMEL-NET

TRAMEL-NET

—is a long and large net for taking birds by night with lights; a practice occasionally enjoyed by the lower class of rustics on a winter evening....

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TRAVELLER

TRAVELLER

—has been a name of so much celebrity upon the TURF , that it cannot with propriety be omitted. Old Traveller was a winner of a great many plates, and afterwards proved himself a stallion of much estimation: he was the sire of Squirrel , Dainty Davy , the dam of Morwick Ball , &amp;c. &amp;c. He was bred by Mr. Osbaldeston , foaled in 1735, got by Partner , dam by Almanzor , who was got by Darley's Arabian . Young Traveller was bred by Mr. Coatsworth, foaled in 1746, got by Old Traveller

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TREAD

TREAD

—is an injury sustained by one foot upon the other. See Over-reach ....

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TRESPASS

TRESPASS

,—in its sporting signification, appertains only to such trespasses as may be committed in the pursuit of, or the attempt to, kill game. It has been decided by law, and is upon record, that a person, though qualified , cannot come upon another man's ground to kill game, without being liable to an action of trespass for so doing: and an unqualified person for trespassing, shall pay full costs: but if he is legally qualified to kill game, and the damage shall be found under 40 s. he shall in such

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TRIAL

TRIAL

.—It is a common and prudent custom with those engaged upon the turf, to ascertain as near as possible, some tolerable idea of the probable future speed of their COLTS and FILLIES , before they put themselves to the expence of general training, or too confidently presume to become SUBSCRIBERS to large stakes , without at least a promising prospect of adequate qualifications. To acquire information so absolutely necessary for the regulation of future proceedings, there is only one sure and certai

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TRIPPING

TRIPPING

. A horse who goes near to the ground, is always subject to tripping against every little prominence or projection that happens to lie in his way. Many well-bred horses, exceedingly dull and indolent in a walk , overcome with ease all those trifling impediments, when put into a more enlivening and emulative action. This imperfection always displays itself most in slow paces, which is one predominant reason why a DEALER is invariably anxious to let his horse, when shewn out, be seen in a trot or

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TROTTING

TROTTING

—is one of the natural paces of a horse, which, in respect to speed, is wonderfully to be improved by constant practice; and it being a favourite pace with almost every horse of common description for the purposes of the road, they are observed to enjoy it, in proportion as they excel their companions or opponents, seemingly conscious of their own improvements. The qualifying points for a good trotter, are by no means precisely the same as those requisite to form a speedy and successful racer: t

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TRUMPATOR

TRUMPATOR

,—the name of a horse whose performances on the turf insured him infinite opportunities of acquiring additional celebrity as a STALLION , which he has now supported for twelve years, and is announced for the present season, 1803, at Clermont Lodge, near Brandon, Norfolk, at eight guineas each mare, and half a guinea the groom. Trumpator was bred by Lord Clermont , foaled in 1782; got by Conductor , out of Brunette , who was got by Squirrel . The first of his get started in 1790, at two years old

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TUMOURS

TUMOURS

—are preternatural enlargements in any part of the body or extremities of a horse, occasioned by external injuries, or arising from internal causes, requiring different modes of treatment, according to appearances, or the means by which they have been produced. Swellings proceeding from blows , bruises , and other accidents, are, in general, merely temporary, and submit to such cool repellents, and mild astringents, as are usually applied upon such occasions; but not submitting in a few days, a

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TUNNEL-NET

TUNNEL-NET

—is a net for the taking of partridges by night, and principally in use with poachers only for that purpose. This net is never less than fifteen feet in length, and about twenty inches deep; and is made with two wings; so that when they are extended, and fixed to the ground by the stakes prepared for the business, the net forms an angle, with the tunnel or flue in the middle. The covey of birds having been watched at the time of calling together in the evening, and known to be in the field, when

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TURF

TURF

.—The turf, when used in a sporting sense, is intended to imply whatever appertains solely to the pleasure of HORSE-RACING , without any collateral signification whatever; custom having established three concise terms, by which the distinct sports may be fully comprehended, and the intentional meaning perfectly understood. The " SOD " is known to be fully expressive of cocking ; the " FIELD ," of hunting ; and the " TURF ," of racing ; these being the admitted technical terms of the sporting wor

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TUSHES

TUSHES

.—The teeth so called in a horse, are the two above, and the two below, standing single behind the corner teeth of both the upper and the under jaw: these seldom make their appearance till the horse is four years old off, and attain their full growth at six. If these are examined when the horse is of that age, the inside will be found flat, with two grooves or channels running down to the gum; but when the horse is a few years older, those two are reduced to one ; and soon after he has reached h

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TURNING-OUT

TURNING-OUT

—is of two kinds; one called a summer's, the other, a winter's run; a description of which, with their expected and probable effects, will be found under the heads Grass and Soiling ....

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VENOMOUS BITES

VENOMOUS BITES

—are sometimes sustained by horses and dogs; and become the more perplexing, in consequence of not knowing from whence the injury proceeds. Vipers, slow-worms, efts, horse-stingers, hornets, and wasps, seem to be nearly the whole tribe from which bites (or stings) of this description are received. The effect of either is much the same, as to inflammation, pain, and tension; but that the symptoms are not equally severe, being gradational in their degrees of violence, according to the individual b

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VENERY, BEASTS of

VENERY, BEASTS of

,—are little heard or spoken of, but in the code of FOREST LAWS originally framed for the preservation of vert and venison . Beasts of venery (alias, beasts of forest) are the hart, hare, hind, boar, and wolf....

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VERDERER

VERDERER

—is a judicial officer of the King's Forest, elected (under his Majesty's writ) by a majority of votes in a convened county court of the shire in which the forest is; and there sworn before the sheriff, to keep and maintain the assizes and laws of the forest; and also to review, receive, and enrol, all the attachments and presentments of all manner of trespasses of the forest in respect to vert and venison. The official department of a Verderer bears great similitude to that of a coroner, and in

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VERMIN

VERMIN

—is a term of very extensive signification, including a long list of noxious animals, some of which contribute largely to the sports of the field. The principal vermin of this country consist of the fox, the badger, the martern, the pole-cat, the weasel, the stoat, the rat, and the mouse; of which a description of all the former will be found under their distinct heads....

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VERT

VERT

—is a term in the Forest Laws, meant to include every plant growing within a forest or its purlieus, bearing a green leaf , and of sufficient magnitude to hide or cover a deer beneath its branches; but it must be understood to signify such plants as are either trees, woods, bushes, or underwood; not descending to inferior shrubs, passing under the denomination of plants, but affording no cover. By vert is therefore implied those trees of growth and size sufficient to be entitled conjunctively to

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VERTUMNUS

VERTUMNUS

—was a horse of some racing celebrity; and there is reason to believe he would have been held in equal estimation with his cotemporaries as a stallion, if he had enjoyed the run of fashion in his favour. He was bred by the late Colonel O'Kelly ; foaled in 1775; got by Eclipse , dam by Sweeper , out of an old Tartar mare, the dam of Mercury and Volunteer . Vertumnus got many tolerable runners as country plate horses; but his merits as a stallion were never known, till a circumstance occurred at a

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VETERINARY COLLEGE

VETERINARY COLLEGE

.—The Veterinary College is a national establishment for the general improvement of farriery, situate at Camden Town, in the parish of St. Pancras, at the northern extremity of the Metropolis; and derived its origin and institution from the following circumstance. In January, 1789, issued from the press, a Treatise upon Farriery, in an octavo volume, under the title of "The Gentleman's Stable Directory," by the present Writer; the popularity of which occasioned it to pass through seven editions

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VICE

VICE

.—The imperfections so called in a horse, are the distinguishing traits of an innate bad temper, or a habit mischievously inclined: these are very different from the little airs of skittishness, and proofs of playful spirit, which are displayed by many horses, when brought from confinement to enjoy the comforts and healthy advantages of air and exercise ; or others who afford the same indications of pleasure during the ceremony of dressing in the stable. Horses naturally vicious and untractable,

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VIPER, BITE of

VIPER, BITE of

.—See Venomous Bites ....

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VISCIDITY of the BLOOD

VISCIDITY of the BLOOD

—is that state in which the blood is frequently known, when, by a collapsion of the pores, (from some of those causes which produce colds, coughs, and inflammatory diseases,) it acquires a preternatural consistence from the external repulsion of the perspirative matter, which, thrown upon the circulation, constitutes a siziness of the blood : this, by its retention, becomes so viscid and adhesive, (or tough,) that, when it has been drawn off by bleeding, and set by two or three hours to cool, it

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VIVES

VIVES

—is a disorder so similar to the strangles, that the leading symptoms (at the commencement of the attack) are nearly the same; with this difference only, that in the strangles the tumefactions are centrically situate in the concavity of the under jaw, just below the gullet; and in the vives , the swellings are seated at the roots of the ears, descending more or less towards the neck. These differ in different subjects, as in some they do not suppurate; but by warmth, and emollient unguents, appl

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VIXEN

VIXEN

.—A bitch fox, or a female cub, is so called....

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VOLUNTEER

VOLUNTEER

—was a racer in high estimation, and has long been a stallion of much repute. He was bred by the late Colonel O'Kelly , foaled in 1780; got by Eclipse , dam by Tartar ; and is own brother to Mercury , Venus , Jupiter , Adonis , and Queen Mab . He is the sire of many capital racers, the most remarkable of which are the following. In 1791, Portia , (the Duke of Bedford's,) then three years old, won a sweepstakes of 100 guineas each, six subscribers; 250 guineas forfeit from five; both at Newmarket

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VOMITING

VOMITING

—is often a favourable relief to the human frame, which advantage the horse does not posses, in consequence of the peculiar construction of the gullet. It therefore becomes a matter of serious consideration, how far it may be proper or prudent to administer to a horse, medicines whose properties tend to excite a stimulus, and induce the stomach to a regurgitation by vomit; an operation which it is impossible can take place. See Tartar Emetic ....

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ULCER

ULCER

.—An ulcer is a wound, which, from long standing, and injudicious treatment, is become virulent and inveterate; having acquired a rigid callosity at the edges, and a discoloured, foul, unhealthy slough in the middle. These conjunctive appearances never submit to mere superficial digestive applications, but must be subdued by superficial scarification, and the milder class of corrosives and escharotics....

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UNGUENTS

UNGUENTS

—are ointments, of which there are many different kinds. Blistering ointment, for lameness in the back sinews, splents, spavins, and curbs. Digestive ointment, strong and mild, for dressing wounds in their different stages, and after maturation. Elder ointment, to allay the pain of inflammatory swellings, particularly when proceeding from the stings or bites of animals or venomous insects: and camphorated sperma-cæti ointment, for cracks in the heels of horses during the severity of the winter s

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UMBLES

UMBLES

—are the eatable part of a deer's entrails, which being a perquisite of office, afford a treat to the keeper and his friends....

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URINE

URINE

—is that well known excrementitious fluid secreted or separated by the kidnies from the blood; the evacuation of which is sometimes partially obstructed, or totally suppressed, by different injuries sustained, or diseases particularly affecting the kidnies, the bladder, or some of the parts appropriated to the secretion and discharge of urine. Internal inflammation, or a paralytic affection of the kidnies, as well as external violence there; spasmodic stricture upon the neck or sphincter of the

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WALK

WALK

—is the slowest of a horse's natural paces, upon the safety, excellence and ease of which, much of his worth depends. Good walkers are always in request, and will (if gentle and good tempered) never fail of finding purchasers, even among the aged and infirm . There are numbers to be seen daily, who are admirable goers in the fast paces, that cannot walk at all ; but instances are very rare, of a horse who is a good walker, not having a gift of his other paces in proportion....

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WALNUT

WALNUT

,—the name of a horse of much racing reputation. He was bred by the present Duke of Hamilton , foaled in 1786; got by Highflyer , out of Maiden , (who was got by Matchem ,) own sister to Pumpkin . In 1790, then four years old, Walnut started at York, and won a subscription of 25 guineas each, seven subscribers. The same week he won the great subscription of 295 l. beating those excellent runners, Telescope , Enchanter , Toby , Tickle Toby , and Camilla . At Doncaster he walked over for the Donca

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WARBLE

WARBLE

—is a small hard tumour, produced upon the side or the back of a horse, by the heat and friction of an ill-fitted saddle. It is sometimes occasioned by the pad of the saddle's becoming exceedingly hard, and inelastic, from its long and constant absorption of perspirative matter; to prevent which, the pads of saddles should be occasionally inspected, beat with a stick, and the stuffing restored to its elasticity, by the use of a proper awl, or point of a packing-needle. Upon their first appearanc

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WARRANTY

WARRANTY

—is the personal assurance the purchaser of a horse receives from the seller, at the moment of terminating the bargain, if such purchase absolutely takes place, that the horse in question is no more than a certain number of years old, (as the case may be;) that he is perfectly free from every kind of vice , blemish , and defect ; that he is completely sound, " wind and limb "; or, in other words, that he is in a state of perfection. Much professional jargon has transpired during the last half of

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WARREN

WARREN

,—the name applied to a privileged place, by prescription or grant from the King, in which to keep beasts or fowls of WARREN . These in ancient records were said to be the hare , the coney , the pheasant , and the partridge ; but the word now principally applies to any particular district, or tract of land, set aside entirely for, and appropriated to, the breeding and preservation of rabbits as private property. These become a most valuable and profitable stock; paying a much greater annual rent

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WARTER

WARTER

—is the name of a horse of much celebrity, whose performances upon the turf rendered him of constantly increasing value, and insured him a succession of different owners. He was bred by Mr. G. Crompton, foaled in 1794; got by King Fergus , dam by Highflyer . In the York spring meeting, when three years old, he won a sweepstakes of 20 guineas, six subscribers, beating Dapple , and Telegraph . At Doncaster, in September, he won the following extraordinary race, well worthy a place in the cabinet o

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WARTS

WARTS

—are spongy excrescences, sometimes appearing upon different parts of the body, and in great numbers: they are exceedingly difficult of instrumental extirpation; for, from their being critically seated, profuse bleeding might probably follow. This mode of operation becomes the less necessary, because a moistening of the surface once in three days, with butter of Antimony, will effect certain obliteration, without the least inconvenience, even upon the eye-lids, which are of equal or superior irr

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WASP

WASP

.—See " Venomous Bites ."...

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WATERING

WATERING

.—Upon the proper and confident mode of watering a horse, his health in some degree (but more particularly his condition) principally depends. During a journey in the summer, as well as in a stable in the winter, some attention is necessary to both the quality and quantity of water a horse is permitted to indulge in. There are fixed rules with systematic sportsmen, from which there is never the slighted deviation, but when circumstances may compulsively occasion a temporary variation: the most i

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WATTLES

WATTLES

—are the gills hanging from below the under beak of a cock: these are taken from a stag (young game cock) at the same time with his comb, so soon as they are sufficiently grown for the operation, which is performed before they are turned down to a master walk. The little finger is insinuated into the throat of the cock, when which is properly distended, the wattles are cut off close all round with the scissars; and, lastly, the comb; the whole being slightly washed with a little weak salt and wa

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WAXY

WAXY

—is a horse of recent reputation upon the turf, whose performances promise to render him a stallion high in estimation. He was bred by Sir F. Poole; foaled in 1790; got by Pot8o's out of Maria , a daughter of Herod . In 1793, when three years old, he won the Derby Stakes (at Epsom) of 50 guineas each, half forfeit , (50 subscribers,) beating twelve; the remainder paying forfeit. The odds twelve to one against him at starting. At Lewes he won a sweepstakes of 10 guineas each, (nine subscribers,)

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WEANING

WEANING

—is the act of separating a colt or filly from its dam, that it may no longer derive support from suction , but be compelled to collect its own subsistence from such proper articles of aliment as present themselves according to the season of the year, at which such weaning may be found convenient to take place. This must always become dependent upon circumstances, in respect to the kind of country in which the colt is produced, as well as the purpose for which he is bred, and the late or early p

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WEASEL

WEASEL

.—The weasel, though little seen in the environs of towns, is an animal very well known in most parts of the country: it varies in no great degree from the stoat , either in shape, make, or propensity. Its favourite alimentary enjoyment seems the destruction of eggs by suction; although it pursues and destroys poultry and game with equal avidity. By some instinctive impulse of scent or sagacity, the weasel is enabled to follow a hare, which it pursues with a kind of energetic phrensy; and whenev

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WEIGHT for AGE.

WEIGHT for AGE.

—In racing advertisements, propositions of different kinds appear, in respect to the weights which are to be carried by the horses who are a year younger or a year older than each other. Such announcements vary, in some degree, between the weights of one place of sport and another; but as the GOLD CUP weights at Oxford are considered a fair criterion of equity, they are here introduced in explanation....

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WEIGHT for INCHES

WEIGHT for INCHES

.—When a plate is advertised to be run for by horses "to carry weight for inches," it is then called a Give and Take Plate , which see....

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WEIGHT to the SCALE

WEIGHT to the SCALE

.—Bringing the proper weight to the scale immediately after each heat , is in racing a very important consideration. Whatever weight by the conditions, in either plate, match, sweepstakes, or subscription, a horse is appointed to carry, the rider or jockey must have ascertained before the Stewards, or Clerk of the Course, by the scales and weights publicly affixed to the starting-post of every race ground for that purpose. So soon as each and every heat is ended, such rider or jockey is to ride

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WENS

WENS

—are enlargements which may appear upon any of the soft or fleshy parts of a horse's body, and are technically termed encysted tumours; but divided into different kinds, which are thus distinguished. One, upon separation, is found to contain a substance somewhat similar to boiled rice, curds, or a bread poultice; a second, a glutinous adhesive coagulum, nearly resembling honey when not in a state of absolute fluidity; a third, in which the substance has every appearance of suet in its progress f

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WHEEZING

WHEEZING

—is that seeming difficulty of respiration through the nostrils of a horse, which is by some attributed to a wrong cause; suspecting it to be a contraction or narrowness between the bones and cartilages of the nose. This, to a more nice or accurate observer, does not appear to be the case; on the contrary, attentively investigated, it appears there is very little, if any, doubt to be entertained of its being a defect in the natural inflation of the lungs. Admitting this, it is then a gradational

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WHIM PLATE

WHIM PLATE

,—in the language of the TURF , is where the horses who run carry weight for age, and weight for inches....

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WHIP

WHIP

.—Sporting whips are of two kinds; one of which, having a handle with a hook, and a long thong, is called a hunting-whip; being useful in assisting to manage the hounds. A light straight single-stem whip, is called a jockey whip, being the sort used on the turf....

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WHIP

WHIP

—is the name of a horse of some reputation as a racer, but was withdrawn from the turf, and announced as a stallion, at five years old. He was bred by Mr. Durand ; foaled in 1794; got by Saltram , dam by King Herod , and was the favourite for the Derby in 1797, and expected to win it easy, had he been well enough to have started. He was tried to have so much speed, as to be able to give many colts of the same year from twenty to thirty pounds. The first time he started, he won a sweepstakes of 2

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WHIPPER-IN

WHIPPER-IN

—is an assistant subordinate to the huntsman in every hunting establishment, which, if upon a well-regulated scale of any magnitude, is never considered complete with less than two . One of these has a shade of superiority, and is called the first ; the other, the second , whipper-in. The first, upon all and every occasion, is considered as a second huntsman, empowered to act with his authority upon every emergency, and at all times during temporary separation in the chase, or unavoidable absenc

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WHELPS

WHELPS

.—The produce of hounds during their first months are termed whelps ; the young of other sporting dogs are in general called puppies . Those who are intent upon forming a hunting establishment, will, in laying the foundation, recollect, that hounds are very frequently to be purchased for considerably less money than they can be bred. The pack once obtained, breeding then becomes indispensibly necessary for the proper support of the stock, and the acquisition of superior excellence; by possessing

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WHISKEY

WHISKEY

,—the name of a most excellent runner, whose recent performances on the turf laid the foundation of his present celebrity as a stallion of much promised reputation. He was bred by his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales; foaled in 1780, and got by Saltram out of Calash , (who was got by Herod ;) her dam ( Teresa ) by Matchem . In 1792, when three years old, in the July Meeting at Newmarket, he won a sweepstakes of 200 guineas, eight subscribers; and 50 l. at Bedford. First October Meeting, a post

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WHITE-FOOTED HORSE

WHITE-FOOTED HORSE

—is always considered an indication of future weakness in the feet; such horses, in general, having hoofs which become soon brittle and battered; or an outer sole so thin at the bottom, that it compulsively submits to the propulsive force of the membranous mass within, and soon forms a preternatural prominence upon the surface, rendering the foot not only weak, but exceedingly difficult to shoe, without pressing upon the part requiring to be protected....

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WHITE HOUND

WHITE HOUND

.—A hound perfectly white is hardly ever bred up for the chase; not more on account of their being considered weaker in constitution than hounds of a variegated description, than their contributing less to the uniformity of the pack. The hounds in the highest estimation to constitute beauty, are brown, liver-coloured, or yellow pied; either of those having a proportional participation with the white, and of these the most are now bred. There are, however, some instances, where hounds entirely of

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WIDGEON

WIDGEON

—is a species of wild fowl, inferior in size to the wild duck, but considerably larger than the teal. They afford little or no sport to the gunner, being but rarely found, except in the utmost severity of the winter, and then only in certain particular fens and marshes in some few different parts of the kingdom. Those with which the markets of the Metropolis are supplied, are caught in the same manner as wild-ducks. See Decoy ....

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WILD BOAR

WILD BOAR

.—This animal was formerly a native of Britain, and held in such high estimation, that those convicted of killing or maiming them in the time of William the Conqueror, were punished with the loss of their eyes. Charles the First procured wild boars from the continent, and had them turned down in the New Forest to promote the breed; but they were entirely destroyed in the civil wars that ensued. Hunting the wild boar is considered a magnanimous sport with the grandees of those countries in which

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WILD DUCK

WILD DUCK

.—See Decoy ....

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WILD-GOOSE CHASE

WILD-GOOSE CHASE

,—is neither more or less than a metaphorical allusion to the uncertainty of its termination . This originated in a kind of chase (more properly match) formerly decided in the following way. Two horses having started at the place appointed, continued to race by the side of each other, till one having obtained the lead, was entitled to proceed in whatever direction the rider pleased, (either by shortening or prolonging the distance to the winning spot previously agreed on,) according to the quali

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WIND BROKEN

WIND BROKEN

.—The disorder or malady so called, is (with the most experienced) discovered by a quick and irregular heaving of the flanks, accompanied by a great and palpable difficulty of respiration after brisk exertion. The usual mode of examination with dealers, is to try the perfect or imperfect state of the wind, by a cough compulsively excited: this is effected by forcibly pressing the gullet, just below the under jaw, at the junction of the head with the neck; from which pressure, if a strong, clear,

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WINDGALLS

WINDGALLS

—are soft and flatulent or fluctuating tumours, seated on one or both sides the back sinews, above the fetlock-joint of a horse, and principally upon the fore-legs; but with horses who have been immoderately worked, they frequently appear upon the hind-legs also. They generally make their appearance upon subjects who have been brought into labour too young, and before the vessels have acquired a proper strength and elasticity. Permitted to continue long, without counteraction, they soon possess

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WITHERS

WITHERS

.—The part of a horse so called, is the superior point of the shoulders, situate above the blades, precisely at the termination of the mane, from whence the back begins. Upon the good or ill formation of the withers, the symmetry, strength and value of the horse materially depend. If the subject is well made in the withers, with a gradually advancing forehand, long and proportionally erect, it produces a commanding majestic dignity in the fore quarters, generally accompanied with a corresponding

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WITHER-WRUNG

WITHER-WRUNG

.—A horse is said to be wither-wrung, when he sustained the origin of the injuries described under the last head....

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WOLF

WOLF

.—The wolf, although not now to be found among us, was once a very destructive native of this country, and the whole were ultimately destroyed by mandate from the Crown. Naturalists universally agree in an opinion, that the wolf and dog were originally of the same class; and argue, from its external form, that it is in every respect what the dog was in its natural state of freedom. Although completely annihilated in this country, they are to be found in great abundance in every other, from whenc

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WOLVES' TEETH

WOLVES' TEETH

.—Those so called, are the natural teeth of the horse, enlarged by a preternatural growth, so as to lacerate the fleshy internal part of the cheek by the prominence of their ragged edges, or by the upper grinders overhanging the lower; they catch the wrinkled parts (called flaps) between them in the act of mastication, occasioning so much pain, that some horses are considerably reduced in flesh by a compulsive abstinence, eating no more than merely sufficient to keep the frame in a state of subs

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WOODCOCK

WOODCOCK

.—This is a bird of passage, with a simply variegated plumage, having a long bill, peculiarly appropriated to the purposes of insertion and suction, from which its subsistence is principally derived: it is rather inferior in size to the partridge, varying in weight, according to the condition it may be in, and the season in which it is killed, being rarely less than eight, or more than eleven ounces in the scale. They arrive in this country some time in the month of October; but whether early or

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WOODPECKER

WOODPECKER

—was a horse whose blood and performances rendered him, as a racer, and stallion, of the most distinguished celebrity. He was bred by Sir C. Davers; foaled in 1773; got by Herod , dam ( Miss Ramsden ) by Old Cade , grand-dam by Lord Lonsdale's Bay Arabian . His winnings are now become too remote to give in the detail. As a stallion, his progeny are infinite; amongst the principal of which the following have been the most conspicuous. In 1789, Bullfinch won 300 guineas, 100 guineas, 20 guineas, 1

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WORMS

WORMS

—are known to be of different kinds; and when any one particular species has taken possession of the stomach, or any part of the intestinal canal, in a horse, they not only occasion extreme pain, or perpetual disquietude, but become inveterate opponents to health, and constant enemies to flesh and condition. Some horses, of strong constitution, will bear their persecuting pinchings for a great length of time, before they give external proof of internal depredation; others, from less patience, or

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WORMING of DOGS

WORMING of DOGS

,—when whelps, or puppies, is believed by some to prevent their wanton and destructive propensity in play when young; and by others, to render unnecessary any fear of their receiving the canine infection of madness during their lives: the latter, however, is too slender a foundation for any decisive opinion to be erected upon. The operation of worming is simply this; underneath the tongue is a frænum (or bridle) by which the motion of the tongue is regulated; the exterior skin of this is to be d

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WORMWOOD

WORMWOOD

.—This plant is of two sorts, distinguished by the names of Roman and Common Wormwood: both have their properties of utility; but the former is esteemed the most efficacious of the two. It has a strong but fragrant smell, and is intensely bitter to the taste: it powerfully resists putrefaction, and is highly useful in antiseptic and emollient fomentations; consequently well worthy a place in the garden of every rural sportsman, to be ready upon unexpected emergencies. Experiments have been made

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WOUNDS

WOUNDS

—are well known to be occasioned by various means; and, in the strictest signification, imply an accidental separation of parts, or solution of continuity, by some sharp instrument, suddenly and accidentally, or wilfully introduced. In all recent wounds casually encountered, and in a bleeding state, (if not deeply seated,) little more is required, or can indeed be effected by the most expert practitioner, than to absorb the flux of blood, and then to bring the edges of the wound as nearly into c

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YARD-FALLEN

YARD-FALLEN

—is what some horses are constitutionally subject to, and frequently display it in a state of weariness, or bodily lassitude, denoting no indisposition, and to which no ill appertains. If the yard is seen to drop, and continue so any length of time, in a state of flaccid debility, (the horse being in other respects healthy, and free from pain,) it indicates a previous injury, sustained by pinch, pressure, or some other means, upon that part in the groins; or by slip, strain, stroke, or bruise up

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YARD FOUL

YARD FOUL

.—A foulness within the sheath is what happens with most geldings; but some generate or form much more filth than others. This collection, for want of being occasionally relieved, and cleaned out, so nearly plugs up the orifice, that the yard, in its vapid state, has not the power to protrude itself for the purpose of evacuation, and the urine falls dribbling from the sheath; a circumstance that in itself points out the necessity of occasional cleansings, to prevent so unpleasant an obstruction.

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YELLOWS

YELLOWS

—is a disorder in horned cattle, denominated the yellows ; but in horses, as well as in the human species, it is distinguished by the appellation of Jaundice , which see....

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YEOMAN-PRICKER

YEOMAN-PRICKER

—is a part of the royal retinue annexed to his Majesty's hunting establishment. Of these there are SIX , whose official department it is to be subordinate to the huntsman, and execute his orders in all matters relative to the STAG HOUNDS , whether at their exercise and airings, or during the chase; full and explanatory particulars of which will be found under the separate and distinct heads of King's Hounds , and Stag Hunting . THE END. Printed by T. Maiden, Sherbourn Lane....

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ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

TAPLIN, VETERINARY SURGEON, AUTHOR OF The Gentleman's Stable Directory ; (2 VOLS. ) "A Compendium of Farriery," and "Multum in Parvo;" REMOVED FROM EDGEWARE ROAD, TO SLOANE SQUARE , BEGS to make his most grateful Acknowledgements to those Noblemen and Gentlemen, who have continued to honour him with their Patronage during the fourteen years he has been energetically employed in endeavouring to promote a Reform in the former cruel and erroneous System of Farriery. It is the greatest ambition of h

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