Indeed, he had small time to ponder, for his comrade was quickening his steps, and he had to hasten to reach his side.
"My stables lie this way.

We will go and look at the hackneys, and make choice of one fit to carry those great limbs of yours, my worthy friend.

As for me, a light-made barb will suffice; but it takes bone and muscle to carry all that bone," and he clapped his hand upon Tom's shoulder with a little laugh.
The stables were neither very bright nor savoury according to modern ideas, but for the times they were thought a marvel of perfection.

Tom's eyes soon got used to the dimness, and he was quickly in a high state of rapture at the evidences of breeding and pace in the horses stabled there.
That they knew their master well was plain, for all heads were turned at the sound of his voice, and each animal gave a low whinny of pleasure at the approach of Lord Claud.

He took carrots from a basket and dispensed them with impartiality to his stud; and, meantime, he and his head groom talked together in low tones, and presently Tom was called to the conclave.
"Nell Gwynne will carry you best, Tom.