"Horsemanship executed in a superior stile."

How incredibly lucky those people in Alexandria, Virginia, were in 1814 to have a chance to see “Mr. Menial, in the character of Clown, endeavor to please the audience,” at the Breschard and Co. Circus, which had only recently performed in the city of Baltimore. This 1814 newspaper advertisement may not be an example of great copywriting, but it’s hard to pass up on the chance to see horsemanship “executed in a superior stile.” And let’s never forget the Elegant Horse Conqueror. He performed the part of the Domestic Dog, who brought, at the command of his master, a handkerchief, whip, hat, basket and walked on his knees. There is no ticket price listed, but it was a bargain at any price.

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