SAGACITY OF THE HORSE.
[To THZ EDITOR OF THE " SPECTATOX."] SIR,—An instance of the extraordinary sagacity and fidelity of a horse may interest the readers of the Spectator. The account appeared in the Pioneer of India two or three months ago, and was reproduced in the Royal Engineer? Journal on June 1st. I quote from the latter paper : —" With reference to the murderous attack made upon Lieutenant Robertson, R.E., by a youthful Ghazi at Gulistan,. it appears that the former was out riding and was joined by the Ghazi, who was also on horseback. Both entered into friendly conversation, and shortly afterwards put their horses to a trial of speed, in which Lieutenant Robertson outstripped his rival, when the Ghazi, being a short distance behind, sud- denly drew his tnlwar and inflicted a severe gash on Lieutenant Robertson's neck, and otherwise wounding his hand, which he bad raised to ward off the Ghazi's attack It is stated that when Lieutenant Robertson fell off his horse, and was lying on the ground, bleeding profusely, the faithful animaY protected his master from further injury by kicking at the Ghazi and attempting to bite him. But for this remarkable behaviour on the part of Lieutenant Robertson's horse, it is supposed that the Ghazi would have probably hacked Lieu- tenant Robertson to death."
I hear from a private correspondent that this account is quite accurate, and also that two Indian boys, hidden among trees close by, saw the attack made on Mr. Robertson, and managed to stop a passing train. The Ghazi at once rode off,. but was caught soon afterwards, identified, and sentenced to be hanged. The wounded officer was put into the train, and taken to the hospital at Quetta, where he was recovering front the severe injuries he had received.—I am, Sir, &c.,
A. E. H.
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