Meaning: This quote is from the short story "The Horse-Dealers" by Augustus Baldwin Longstreet, a prominent American lawyer, minister, and author who lived during the 19th century. The story was first published in 1835 in the Georgia Literary and Temperance Crusader and later included in Longstreet's collection of works titled "Georgia Scenes." Longstreet's writing often reflects his observations of life in the antebellum South, and "The Horse-Dealers" is no exception. The story provides a glimpse into the world of horse-trading in the South and offers insights into the characters and their interactions.

The quote itself describes a horse with a "goodly countenance" and a more vigilant than fiery expression. However, the loss of its ears gives the horse an unnatural appearance of fierceness. This description sets the scene for the story and hints at the themes of appearance versus reality and the impact of physical attributes on perception.

The mention of the horse's "goodly countenance" suggests that it has an appealing and noble appearance. This description indicates that the horse is visually pleasing and perhaps has a dignified presence. The use of the word "expressive" implies that the horse's appearance communicates a sense of vigilance, or watchfulness, rather than a wild or untamed nature. This characterization of the horse sets the tone for the story, indicating that the horse may be a significant figure in the narrative, and its appearance holds symbolic meaning.

The description continues by noting that an "unnatural appearance of fierceness" is created by the loss of the horse's ears, which have been cropped close to its head. This detail introduces a conflicting element to the horse's overall countenance. The absence of ears, a notable feature of horses, creates a jarring and harsh effect, distorting the horse's natural appearance. The loss of the ears is described as contributing to an "unnatural appearance of fierceness," suggesting that the physical alteration has transformed the perception of the horse from one of vigilance to one of ferocity. This contrast between the horse's inherent nature and its altered appearance raises questions about the impact of external changes on the perception of an individual or entity.

Longstreet's storytelling in "The Horse-Dealers" often reflects his keen observations of human behavior and societal dynamics. By choosing to describe the horse in such detail, Longstreet sets the stage for a narrative that likely delves into themes of perception, deception, and the complexities of human interaction. The quote serves as an invitation for readers to consider the significance of physical appearances and the potential for misinterpretation based on external attributes.

In summary, this quote from "The Horse-Dealers" by Augustus Baldwin Longstreet offers a vivid and evocative description of a horse, setting the stage for a narrative that explores themes of appearance, perception, and the impact of physical alterations on an individual's nature. Longstreet's skillful use of language and attention to detail in describing the horse hints at the deeper layers of meaning and insight that readers can expect from the story.