27 



PERCHERONS. 



BY CHARLES DU HAYS. 



Anthor of the " nicHonary of the Pare Bnce," " Trotters," >' The Book 



of theRaceN,'' "Alerlerault," *'The Horfle<Breeder'« 4i>alde/' 



etc., and Then, as Now, Occupying a PlRrh Position 



In the French Government. 



The following history is quoted from the work of the above author; 



" Almost everything that has been written about the horse may be 

 reduced pretty much to complaining that there does not exist a 

 breed which unites, in an elevated degree, high moral or physical 

 (jualities ; modestly seeking and teaching the means of obtaining 

 such a breed. 



" It is reasonable that such sentiments should surprise us, here in 

 the heart of France, where, for a long time, a race of horses has 

 flourished which may be said to fill the requirements proposed in 

 every way. 



" The proof of this statement is easy ; a hasty sketch of the prin- 

 cipal characters of the breed suffices to furnish it. 



" To no ordinary strength, to vigor that does not degenerate, and 

 to a conformation that does not exclude elegance, it joins docility, 

 mildness, patience, honesty, great kindness, excellent health, and a 

 hardy, elastic temperament. Its movements are quick, spirited and 

 light. It exhibits great endurance, both when hard worked and when 

 forced to maintain for a long time any of its natural gaits, and it pos- 

 sesses the inestimable quality of moving fast with heavy loads. It is 

 particularly valuable for its astonishing precocity, and produces by 

 its work, as a two-year-old, more than the cost of its feed and keep. 

 Indeed, it loves and shows a real aptness for labor, which is the lot 

 of all. It knows neither the whims of bad humor nor nervous excite- 

 ment. It bears for man, the companion of its labors, an innate confi- 

 dence, and expresses to him a gentle familiarity, the fruit of an educa- 

 tion for many generations in the midst of his family. Women and 

 children from whose hands it is fed can approach without fear. In 

 a word, if I may speak thus, it is an honorable race. It has that fine 



