A History of the Mahrattas v1.c14.47

v1.c14.47

The horse, especially at an advanced period of Sivajee's history, were subsisted, during the fair season, in the enemy's country; during the rains, they were generally allowed to rest, and were cantoned in different situations near kooruns or pasture lands, under the protection of some fort, where the grass of the preceding season was stacked, and grain prepared by the time they returned. For this purpose persons were appointed, to whom rent-free lands were hereditarily assigned. The system was thus preserved, when many of Sivajee's institutions were neglected; and it proved of much consequence to the cause of his countrymen.