MOSCOW. 
183 
wonderful : it was a mass of numberless Siberian 
emeralds, lying in their natural repository ; this '■ 
they traversed in all directions ; exhibiting the 
most beautiful crystallization that can be con- 
ceived, and every possible diversity of size, 
shape, and colour. 
Prince Fiazemskoys collection of the current 
coin of the world was too remarkable to be 
passed over without notice. Prince Alexander 
Scherbatof had also a magnificent cabinet of 
Natural History. 
The number of English horse-dealers, and 
English grooms, in Moscoiv, was, at this time, 
very great. They were in high favour among 
the nobles. The Governor of the city was con- 
sidered particularly skilful in choosing horses. 
It was not unusual to hear the nobles repeat 
the pedigree of their favourites, as if on an 
English race-course : “ This,'’ said they, “ was 
the son of Eclipse; dam by such a one; grand- 
dam by another and so on, through a list of 
names taught by their grooms, but having no 
more real reference to their cattle than to the 
moon. English saddles and bridles also sold at 
very advanced prices. 
CHAP. 
VIII. 
English 
Horse- 
Dealers. 
Passing the public streets of the city, a 
