70 HISTORY OF THE 



'^ They took them into their own habitations, 

 cleansed, combed, and caressed them with as 

 much affection as they would their own chil- 

 dren. They hung something like a jewel about 

 their necks, and a broad ribbon, which was full 

 of amulets against poison, which they are most 

 afraid of. They never strike them, the grooms 

 that dress them being as gentle as their masters. 

 In return for this treatment, these animals natu- 

 rally acquire a great attachment to man, and 

 are always most tractable and easily managed. 

 The Turks take a pride in making them so tame 

 that they wdll kneel to be mounted at the word 

 of command, take up a stick or simitar from 

 the ground, and whenever the rider happens to 

 fall off, immediately stand still. But alas ! the 

 horses of our christian grooms generally and 

 with reason fear their keepers." 



