This horse was named Cruiser. He belonged to an English nobleman, and
was a race-horse of fine blood. Unfortunately he had a bad temper. No
groom dared to venture into his stall, and one day, when he had been put
into a public stable, it became necessary to take off the roof of the
building to get him out. After this he was practically left to himself
for three years. His huge bit was loaded with chains, and on his head
was a large muzzle, lined inside and out with iron. No wonder that his
temper grew worse and worse. When any one came near him he screamed with
hate and fury.
Mr. Rarey had already met with such success in taming horses in his own
country, that it was decided to let him see what he could do with
Cruiser. "Kindness, fearlessness and patience will subdue him," said the
American; "I am not afraid to try."
When the time came for the trial, and Mr. Rarey threw open the door as
if there were nothing to fear, Cruiser was too much astonished to move.
Before he had made up his mind what he should do, the "kindness,
fearlessness and patience" of Mr. Rarey were at work. One of Cruiser's
fore-feet was gently strapped backward in such a way that he could
neither run nor kick. By another strap on the off fore-foot it was
possible to draw up the other leg, and presently to bring the powerful
creature down upon his knees.
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