As we stood gazing at this splendid sight, of which more anon,
there suddenly dashed up to the gateway four chariots, each drawn
by two white horses. These chariots are two-wheeled, and made
of wood. They are fitted with a stout pole, the weight of which
is supported by leathern girths that form a portion of the harness.
The wheels are made with four spokes only, are tired with iron,
and quite innocent of springs. In the front of the chariot,
and immediately over the pole, is a small seat for the driver,
railed round to prevent him from being jolted off. Inside the
machine itself are three low seats, one at each side, and one
with the back to the horses, opposite to which is the door.
The whole vehicle is lightly and yet strongly made, and, owing
to the grace of the curves, though primitive, not half so ugly
as might be expected.
But if the chariots left something to be desired, the horses
did not. They were simply splendid, not very large but strongly
built, and well ribbed up, with small heads, remarkably large
and round hoofs, and a great look of speed and blood. I have
often wondered whence this breed, which presents many
distinct characteristics, came, but like that of its owners,
it history is obscure.
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