I made Dromanus get off his horse and give me his poncho and his big felt hat.
Then I got on his horse and told him to get into the litter.

He was embarrassed.
"'Pooh', said I, 'you cannot walk and we should look like fools with an empty litter.

Get in and be jounced! Draw the curtains; if we meet anybody I'll give you an impressive title.' He rolled in among the cushions, looking as foolish as possible.

His horse ambled perfectly and I felt more comfortable.

I went on ahead.