He Walked Around the Horses

He Walked Around the Horses is a science fiction novella by H. Beam Piper, first published in April 1948 in Astounding Science Fiction. Set in November 1809, it follows British diplomat Benjamin Bathurst, who mysteriously vanishes while traveling in Prussia. The narrative is presented in an epistolary format, featuring reports and statements from various officials, and explores themes of reality and perception, questioning the nature of existence and the boundaries of time. Piper's work is notable for its blend of historical fiction and speculative ideas, making it a unique contribution to the genre.