28 A Job Horse and His Drivers

In “A Job Horse and His Drivers,” from the novel “Black Beauty,” the narrator, a horse named Black Beauty, recounts the various experiences of being driven by different kinds of drivers after becoming a “job horse,” rented out to whoever wished to hire him. His gentle and good-tempered nature meant that he was often leased to inexperienced drivers, exposing him to an array of poor driving techniques.

Black Beauty first discusses drivers who keep the reins excessively tight, believing that control over the horse is achieved by restricting its movement. He critiques this approach, noting that it is both painful and counterproductive, particularly for horses like himself with sensitive mouths and the ability to be easily guided without such harshness.

He contrasts this with the loose-rein drivers, who offer too little guidance, risking safety by being unprepared for sudden incidents, such as the horse shying or stumbling. While Black Beauty personally did not mind this lax approach due to his steady demeanor, he recognizes the value of moderate control, especially in potentially hazardous situations like descending hills.

The horse also touches upon how different driving styles can instill bad habits in horses, which can be difficult and painful to correct. He recalls the wise practices of his former owner, Squire Gordon, who maintained that spoiling a horse by allowing it to develop poor habits was as cruel as spoiling a child, given both have to endure the consequences later.

Further illustrating the perils of negligent driving, Black Beauty recounts a particular incident with an inattentive driver who, while distracted by conversation, failed to notice a stone lodged in the horse’s hoof. This oversight resulted in significant pain for Black Beauty and demonstrated the driver’s lack of concern for the horse’s wellbeing. The incident underscores the importance of attentiveness and empathy in handling animals, contrasting sharply with the conscientious care provided by competent handlers like Mr. Gordon or John, who would have promptly addressed such an issue to prevent harm.

Overall, the chapter highlights the challenges and injustices faced by horses under human care, emphasizing the need for kindness, skill, and attentiveness in their treatment.