(■II. xxviii.] The Bedoiiin on Horseback. 263 



them iu to the towns for further sale, as soon as 

 they have broken them. The fillies are generally 

 kept in the tribe. 



Of diseases there are few among the Bedouin 

 horses. I have never heard of an instance of roar- 

 ing, and only once of liroken wind. An accident 

 known as "twisted gut," is, however, rather com- 

 mon, and some other diseases of an inflammatory 

 nature which prove suddenly fatal. Horses, mares, 

 colts, and all alike are starved during great part of 

 the year, no corn being ever given, and only camels 

 milk when other food fails. They are often with- 

 out water for several days together, and in the most 

 piercing nights of winter they stand uncovered, 

 and with no more shelter than can be o;ot on the 

 lee side of the tents. Their coats become lono; and 

 shaggy, and they are left uncombed and unbrushed 

 till the new coat comes in spring. At these times 

 they are ragged-looking scarecrows, half-starved, 

 and as rough as ponies. In the summer, however, 

 their coats are as fine as satin, and they show all 

 the appearance of breeding one has a right to ex- 

 pect of their blood. 



The Bedouin never uses a bit or bridle of any 

 sort, but instead, a halter with a fine chain passing 

 round the nose. With this he controls his mare 

 easily and effectually. lie rides on a pad of cotton, 

 fastened on the mare's back by a surcingle, and 

 uses no stirrups. This pad is the most uncomfort- 

 able and insecure seat imaginable, but fortunately 



