Some years back, when I became fascinated with the Mongols in connection with Marco Polo, I also discovered the horse, as it were. Prior to that—in fact, since childhood—I was not very well inclined toward horses. I found them awkward and dull. Now I admire and respect them, and I sometimes wish to have a horse for a friend. As of late, cows elicit similar feelings. I find them ever more beautiful to behold, but I am not sure what has triggered the emergence of my enthusiasm. Perhaps it is my fascination with cave painting that has contributed to this surprising change. The aurochs, the precursor of the modern cow, was a majestic animal by all counts. Anyhow, the way I am going, I am liable to end up by falling in love with all manner of domestic animals: sheep, pigs, geese, and even chicken. By the way, for ducks I have always had a soft spot.