3--Denotes an enlargement, probably produced by a blow received during a leap, or given by an impatient groom. It is placed directly under one of the extensor tendons. In consequence of this minute substance, the severest agony is endured, or the most marked lameness exhibited, whenever the leg is advanced. The great majority of these maladies may result from the present rage for high action, and the too general practice of pushing the horse beyond his speed. Racers and hunters commonly have splints: almost every roadster exhibits them. Few draught-horses are without them: they are all but universal. It may be easy to detect or to feel a full-sized splint; but it is rather difficult to discover these tumors when they are small, or when they are just beginning to develop themselves. At that period they are most painful. They may be mere deformities when fully formed; but, when growing, though not to be seen, they are apt to cause decided lameness. [Illustration: A HORSE "DISHING," OR CARRYING THE FRONT LEG OUTWARD, WHEN ON THE TROT. ] The cause of such failing action very often can only be guessed at. To detect a fully-developed splint, stand at the side of the animal's leg and grasp the posterior part of the shin; then, by running the thumb down on one side and the fingers on the other, in the groove formed by the junction of the two small splint-bones with the cannon-bone, the examiner may recognize enlargement or feel heat, should either exist. By making pressure where the heat or swelling is perceived, he may cause the leg to be snatched up. Should nothing result from this trial, the animal is trotted gently up and its action is observed. Horses with splints, when lame, generally "dish" or turn the leg outward, when it is raised from the ground. That is done because the bending of the limb pressed the splint-bone downward, the outward carriage of the shin being an endeavor to lessen the pain which attends upon the natural action. Should no "dishing" be remarked, next observe whether the leg is fully flexed or advanced; and, after the hints thus received, the investigation may be resumed with a better prospect of success. The treatment of splint is conveyed in the old maxim, "time and patience." Rest will do more than physic. A man, therefore, may as well let his horse rest in his own stable, as pay for rest, lodging, and useless treatment in another place. Splints, moreover, if only subjected to rest, accompanied with liberal feeding, are likely the sooner to attain their maximum magnitude. If they are interfered with under the pretense of treatment, the irritation may cause them to increase; thus the proprietor, through his impatience, may purchase an injury.