HARNESS.
From decayed Harness, almost as much danger is to be dreaded as from a faulty Carriage. However skilful the Coachman, if your Harness fails, how can he manage his Horses?
That Harness may not be used so long as to become expensive and troublesome in the repair, we will endeavour to give some guide as to how long it may be expected to last: this, however, depends much on the Quality of the Leather and the Goodness of the Workmanship, the Weather it is exposed to, and the care that is taken of it.
Harness perishes with hanging by; and however moderately it may be used, after five or six years is seldom fit for further service, unless very extraordinary care has been taken to preserve it. It may be said to wear in proportion to the Work done with it: this is ascertained by the number of Wheels worn out, and we calculate that it will last in London, at least, as long as Four Sets of Wheels.
Harness for common work should not be encumbered with superfluous Ornaments, &c.: the plainer it is the better. The less the Horse is burdened with trappings, the more easily he can do his Work;—the less Time is required to keep it clean;—and the less Money it costs.
Those who are nice about the look of their Harness, must keep a set of Old Harness for Wet Weather and Night Work; which is a plan to be recommended to all Persons who make much use of their Carriage.
A Handsome set of Chariot Harness, of the very best Workmanship, with patent Leather Waterdecks, according to Estimate (No. 9), costs from about £30. to £36.