120 SALMONIA. 



is on the hook as to make much difference ; 

 and I am not sure, that the action of crimphig 

 after does not give a better sort of crispness 

 to the fibre. This, however, may be fancy ; 

 we will discuss the matter again at table. See ! 

 our companion on the lake, the eagle, is 

 coming down the river, and has pounced 

 upon a fish in the pool near the sea. 



Phys. — I fear he will interfere with our 

 sport : let us request Ornither to shoot him. 

 I wish to see him nearer, and to preserve him 

 as a specimen for the Zoological Society. 



Hal. — O! no. He will not spoil our sport; 

 and I think it would be a pity to deprive this 

 spot of one of its poetical ornaments. Besides, 

 the pool where he is now fishing contains 

 scarcely any thing but trout ; it is too shallow 

 for salmon, who run into the cruives. 



PoiET. — I am of your opinion, and shall 

 use my eloquence to prevent Ornither from 

 attempting the life of so beautiful a bird ; so 

 majestic in its form, so well suited to the 

 scenery, and so picturesque in all its habits. 



The Innkeeper. — Gentlemen, dinner is 

 ready. 



