222 . ANGLERS' EVENINGS. 



the largest fly of the cast in that position on the line. 

 There cannot be a doubt, however, that in such matters 

 of detail, within, of course, the limits of certain well- 

 defined and well-known rules, the angler's own experience 

 and observation will be his best and safest guide. As 

 regards numbers, I would strongly advocate the course of 

 erring upon the side ot safety in having too few, rather 

 than too many hooks ; not necessarily because the sight 

 of a number of flies — if it be true that our aquatic friends 

 really take them for flies — can be such an unusual sight to 

 the fish, but because to the average angler they are a 

 source of frequent annoyance and perplexity. The most 

 skilful and successful angler I ever met with, never used 

 more than a pair. I very seldom fish with more than 

 three. 



Passing the " Long stream," below which the Mertoun 

 water begins, and still fishing down on the right bank, 

 the angler will come to a fine bit of water known as 

 the " Cauld Pool," where the current is kept back to 

 supply Mertoun Mill. Between this and Mertoun Bridge 

 there are some capital streams and deep side runs, where 

 fish may always be taken. About a mile and a half 

 below the bridge, is some splendid water running through 

 Lord Polwarth's estate. At this point the river winds 

 gracefully along, and there is a picturesque view of his 

 lordship's beautiful residence — Mertoun House. Here 

 the water is preserved, and the trout, in consequence, are 

 more plentiful, and as a rule, larger than above. I had 

 heard glowing accounts in the village of the superiority 

 of the trouting in this particular spot, and was eager to 



