What was more, they gave out a pungent, aromatic smell that was unpleasant, such a smell as might arise from blood mixed with musk and spices.
"It is very strange," I said.

"Let us look at your beast, Leo." So we did, and found that its hoofs had been similarly-treated.
"Perhaps it is a native mixture to preserve the horn," suggested Leo.
I thought awhile, then a terrible idea struck me.
"I don't want to frighten you," I said, "but I think that we had better saddle up and get on." "Why ?" he asked.
"Because I believe that villain of a Khan has doctored our horses." "What for?
To make them go lame ?" "No, Leo, to make them leave a strong scent upon dry ground." He turned pale.

"Do you mean--those hounds ?" I nodded.

Then wasting no more time in words, we saddled up in frantic haste.

Just as I fastened the last strap of my saddle I thought that a faint sound reached my ear.
"Listen," I said.