horse feels annoyance. But now, supposing when his fire is thus
enkindled[11] you give him the rein, the effect is instantaneous.
Under the pleasurable sense of freedom, thanks to the relaxation of
the bit, with stately bearing and legs pliantly moving he dashes
forward in his pride, in every respect imitating the airs and graces
of a horse approaching other horses. Listen to the epithets with which
spectators will describe the type of horse: the noble animal! and what
willingness to work, what paces,[12] what a spirit and what mettle;
how proudly he bears himself[13]--a joy at once, and yet a terror to
behold.

[11] Cf. "Hell." V. iv. 46, "kindled into new life."

[12] {ipposten}, "a true soldier's horse."

[13] {sobaron}, "what a push and swagger"; {kai ama edun te kai gorgon
idein}, "a la fois doux et terrible a voir," see Victor
Cherbuliez, "Un Cheval de Phidias," p. 148.

Thus far on this topic; these notes may serve perhaps to meet a
special need.



XI

If, however, the wish is to secure a horse adapted to parade and state
processions, a high stepper and a showy[1] animal, these are qualities
not to be found combined in every horse, but to begin with, the animal
must have high spirit and a stalwart body. Not that, as some think, a