You can’t use a hose that has been used, even NOS hose that has been stored or in a hose cabinet unused if full of dust.
If it was dragged in the dirt, you will never get all the dirt and grit out. If you use a harsh soap/cleaner you will rot the fibers, or if the hose was not dried properly it may already be rotted. I use woolite or the dollar store knockoff.and very diluted.
There are guys on the Bay selling hose, but “it’s the Bay” pay your money and take your chances. Look for NOS.
My fire hose strops are soft and flexible as a well washed cotton sock, they are the perfect strop for honing, and can be aggressive. I use mine unpasted.
(
Oak Fanned English Shell), post 52 -56, is how I did it. I have had a vintage linen strop soaking for over 2 weeks now, I take it out every few days and scrub it.