the east, remark that the Turkish, and Arabian horses rarely stumble; which he attributed, and with much appearance of truth, to their long tails.
But whatever use the tail may be to the horse in action, it is acknowledged, on all hands, to be of infinite use to him, at rest. Whoever sees the horse grazing in summer, and observes the constant use he makes of his long tail, in lashing the flies from his sides, must be persuaded, that it is a most useful instrument: and must be hurt to see him fidget a short dock, backward and forward, with ineffectual attempts to rid himself of some plague, which he cannot reach.
As to the objection against the tail, as an instrument, which is continually gathering dirt, and lashing it around, if there be any truth in what I have already observed, this little objection dissolves; especially as the inconvenience may with great ease be remedied, when the road is dirty, either by knotting up the tail, or by tying it with a leathern strap. But whatever becomes of utility, the horse is certainly more beautiful, we are told, without his dangling tail. What a handsome figure he makes, when "he carries both his ends well!" This is the constant language of horse-dealers, stable-keepers, and grooms; and such language, tho' originating in tasteless ignorance, and mere prejudice, has perverted the sense, and understanding of men. It is inconceivable, how delusively the eye sees, as well as the understanding, when it is fascinated, and led aside by fashion and custom. Associated ideas of various kinds give truth a different air. When we see a game-cock, with all his sprightly actions and gorgeous plumes about him, we acknowledge one of the most beautiful birds in nature. But when we see him armed with steel and
