rHE STRA NGER 



'To crystal pool there came a stranger fish ; 

 Home less J was he, tho born of opal spawn ; 

 Here sky was blue as nature's bard could wish. 

 And feathered warblers ushered in the dawn. 

 The waters were serene and clear and cool. 

 While leafing green encircled all the pool. 

 He was content. 



Teutonic his philosophy, he basked 

 In plenty, gobbling all that came his way. 

 This happy fish no foolish questions asked. 

 And soon throughout the pool held kingly sway. 

 His vivid spots of color flashed in pride. 

 " 'T is joy to live — '/ is joy to live,'' he cried 

 In merriment. 



He dodged all dangers with a sapient wink. 

 And saw his race increase and hardy grow; 

 He taught his offspring to observe and think 

 That life was well worth fighting for below. 

 Brown German Trout I Gesundheit wer du bist I 

 Tou thrill the soul, but tire the stoutest wrist. 

 When rod is bent. 



175 



