The following little Treatise is intended to convey a correct idea of the proper shape and action of the horse; and also, by pointing out the various imperfections to which he is subject, as well as the best method of discovering those defects, to render the purchase of the animal, usually considered an affair of hazard, a matter of comparative security.

In order to give full force to the following observations, certain expressions, in use amongst horse-dealers, and persons conversant with horses, have been found indispensable; which, not being generally understood, are printed in italics.