PROLOGUE. 



XV 



Many writers, especially those of America, show a disposition to deny 

 the rank of '''game fishes" to all species which will not rise to a surface 

 lure. This is illogical such, if it were strictly insisted upon, sheepshead 

 and sea-bass would be counted out, while the shad and even the gar-pike 

 must needs be allowed at least humble positions among the game fishes. 



I hope that the readers of this book will freely communicate to me any 

 new facts concerning American fishes, or any criticisms of erroneous state- 

 ments, for use in preparing such fuller and better editions of this book as 

 it may be decided in future to publish. 



It is a great satisfaction to feel that this little volume will probably be 

 the companion of men whom I know, or should like to know, in numerous 

 delightful excursions to lake, brook and sea. In closing this prologue I 

 feel disposed to repeat the prayer at the end of Walton's immortal pas- 

 toral : ''That the blessing of St. Peter's master be upon all that hate 

 contentions, and love quietnesse, and virtue, and go a-angling." 



G. B. G. 



Smithsonian Institution, 



Washington, Dec. i, iSS6, 





