29 Cockneys

Chapter 29 of “Black Beauty” provides an insightful perspective on the experiences and challenges faced by horses under the care of different drivers. The chapter criticizes the steam-engine style of driving, predominantly adopted by cockney drivers from towns unfamiliar with the nuances of horse handling, treating horses like inanimate machines rather than sentient beings. These drivers, lacking experience and empathy, often push horses beyond their limits, disregarding road conditions, inclines, and the horses’ well-being. They enforce relentless speeds, refuse to utilize brakes appropriately, causing strain and risking severe accidents.

Black Beauty recounts a distressing encounter involving his companion, Rory, and highlights the grave consequences of reckless driving. Rory suffers a terrible injury due to a collision caused by an inexperienced driver’s haste and disregard for road safety, leading to his eventual sale for coal-carting—a fate lamenting for any horse due to the harsh conditions and relentless labor involved.

The narrative then shifts to introduce Peggy, another horse with whom Black Beauty shares company. Peggy, despite being strong and willing, is troubled by her short legs, which hinder her ability to maintain pace with faster horses, subjecting her to constant whipping and resulting in an awkward gait developed to keep up with unrealistic expectations. Her story reflects the plight of horses judged and mistreated for physical traits beyond their control, emphasizing the need for understanding and empathy from their human handlers.

Lastly, Black Beauty meets a young horse traumatized by frequent punishment for shying, rooted in fear rather than mischief. This segment sheds light on the detrimental effects of punishing horses for natural, fear-based reactions, advocating for patience and a gentle approach to help them acclimate to frightening stimuli.

Overall, Chapter 29 of “Black Beauty” serves as a powerful commentary on the humane treatment of horses, criticizing harsh and ignorant handling while advocating for patience, understanding, and empathy towards these noble creatures. It underscores the importance of matching a horse’s duties with their capabilities and providing supportive, gentle guidance to foster trust and ensure mutual respect between horses and their guardians.