Besides, in that position, if the horse starts you are very likely to dig your spurs into him.
"Hold the reins firmly, but don't pull at his head.

Give him enough scope to toss his head if he wants to, but be in readiness to tighten the reins in an instant, if necessary." Each day, Gregory returned home so stiff, and tired, that he could scarcely crawl along.

Still, he felt that he had made a good deal of progress; and that, when he got up to Dongola, he would be able to mount and ride out without exciting derision.

On the morning of the day on which he was to start, he went to say goodbye to Mr.Murray.
"Have you everything ready, Hilliard ?" the banker asked.
"Yes, sir.

The uniform and the tent are both ready.