There is something extremely martial, and even intimidating, in the first appearance of a Cossack. His dignified and majestic look; his tall elevated brows and dark mustaches; his tall helmet of black wool, terminated by a crimson sack, with its plume, laced festoon, and white cockade; his upright posture; and ease and elegance of his gait—give him an air of great importance. We found them in considerable number at Kasankaia, lounging about their houses, and conversing in such large parties, that it seemed as if we were entering their capital.
