UP THE SHAEI TO GULFEI 121 



and consequently much prized, the usual height being from 

 eleven to twelve hands. Generally speaking, in Western 

 and Central Africa good horses are scarce. This is due in 

 a great measure to want of system and too much in-breed- 



KOTOKO FISHING-BOATS 



ing. The Fulani and Kanuri, who own most of the horses, 

 are seldom travellers and consequently the animals grow 

 soft from want of regular exercise. Unless it has been 

 a good grain year they are fed on grass, and the poor fare 

 does not improve their condition. Again, the horses are 

 ridden at too early an age, with the result that they become 

 goose-rumped, their legs shattered and spirit broken. The 

 breed of horses originally came from the north and east, the 

 Shuas owning the greater number of staUions. The horses 

 are wilhng goers and, if looked after well and ridden carefully, 

 can be made to do their twenty miles a day with ease. As a, 

 rule they are not fast walkers and go best at the triple -trot and 

 canter. Vicious horses are rare. 



