05 A Fair Start

Chapter 5 of “Black Beauty,” titled “A Fair Start,” introduces John Manly, the coachman, who lives near the stables with his wife and child. The morning after Beauty’s arrival, John gives him a thorough grooming, which pleases the Squire, the owner of Beauty. The Squire instructs John to test Beauty’s paces by taking him on a specific route around the estate. John carefully fits Beauty with a comfortable bridle and saddle, and the two set out, starting slow before moving to a trot and then a canter. They enjoy a splendid gallop on the common, and Beauty impresses John with his calmness and steadiness, even in potentially startling situations like passing a heavily laden traveling cart or hearing gunshots.

Upon their return, they encounter the Squire and Mrs. Gordon. John shares his positive assessment of Beauty’s performance, highlighting his speed, spirit, and responsiveness. The Squire decides to try Beauty himself the next day and finds Beauty to be a pleasant and handsome horse, agreeing with John’s evaluation. After considering several names, Mrs. Gordon suggests “Black Beauty,” a name that the Squire approves of for its suitability and pleasant sound.

John shares with James, another stable worker, the decision on Beauty’s name, comparing its sensibility to other fanciful names. A conversation reveals that Beauty and a horse named Rob Roy, killed in a hunt, were brothers, sharing the same mother. This new knowledge makes Beauty reflect on the lack of recognized relations among horses once they are separated.

Throughout the chapter, Beauty narrates his experiences and interactions with kindness and intelligence, reflecting on the care and attention given by John, which fosters a growing affection between horse and man. The chapter establishes Beauty’s characteristics of calmness, bravery, and willingness to please, setting a foundation for his future encounters and relationships.