DAY OF THE ISTRICE 

 

For the winner of the race as he reins in his horse after passing the post, is set upon by the supporters of the other contrade (who all think their horse should have won), with so real and earnest a fury the carabiniers must intervene to protect man and beast from lynching. 

 

Our places were at a point some two or three hundred yards beyond the post, so that we had an excellent view of the battle waged around the horse, as he slackened speed. Scarcely was the post passed when the crowd broke ranks and rushed out onto the course. 

Still cantering, the horse came up the track. A gang of young men ran in pursuit. 

 

Followed by a crowd of supporters from its native contrada, the beast was led off in triumph. 

 

Aldus Huxley – 1925.