162 A MONTH IN THE FORESTS OF FRANCE. 



recalcitration of hoofs, and exclamations of the vil- 

 lagers mingled v/ith the loudest equine snorts. On 

 returning for closer observation, lights came out of 

 the cottages, and I beheld my servant sitting bolt 

 upright on the mare's back, upon the girths, the 

 saddle, with the wolf still attached, being under 

 her belly. Having got Coco close to her, and 

 caught her by the head, my groom dismounted and 

 readjusted wolf and saddle, the mare submitting to it 

 as if it was a matter of course, and of daily occur- 

 rence. It was after nine when I reached the chateau, 

 having been on Coco's back for upwards of twelve 

 hours. 



