It is the privilege of the woman rider to set the pace. The gentleman
follows at her side or slightly behind. He goes ahead, however, to open
gates or lower fences that are too dangerous for her to jump. In
dismounting, he again offers his aid, holding her horse and offering his
hand if it is necessary to assist her. The lady dismounts on the left
side.
At a hunt, a gentleman must sacrifice a great deal of the sport of the
chase if there is a woman in the party under his care. He must ride very
close to her, taking the easiest way and watching out for her comfort.
It is poor form, however, for any woman to follow the hounds in a chase
unless she is an accomplished rider. Otherwise she is merely a hindrance
to the rest of the party, and especially to the man who is accompanying
her.
Be kind to your horse. Do not exhaust it. Do not force it to climb
steep hills. Be careful of how you use your spurs. And try to remember
that good old proverb, "The best feed of a horse is his master's eye."
Even in the most conservative communities to-day women wear breeches
instead of the heavy skirts of a short time back.
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