The water was usually still, and I gradually acquired the absolute confidence of one who can swim, and swims almost every day.

So with a horse.

I could hardly sit on one that was standing still, I was so weak and frightened; but with muscle and health came stronger nerves and higher courage.

After a few months I thought nothing of a ten-mile gallop on the beach or out to the canons.

I took up music in the same way, and had a thoroughly good teacher.