INTRODUCTION". 



" The returns from those engaged in the business for 1878 is also ap- 

 pended, showing an increase of products encouraging to a vigorous prose- 

 cution of the enterprise, viz. : 



1878. 



Men employed on vessels fishing 386 



V^essels employed fishing 78 



ring, and indicating that the menhaden must be ranked among the most 

 proHfic of fishes. 



The attempt of the Maine Legislature to reguhite the fishery in tliat State 

 has been of little moment, owing to the unexpected absence of the men- 

 haden from that region. This movement has met with much opposition 

 on the part of the oil and guano manufacturers. It is to be hoped that the 

 constitutionalitv of the law will be tested in the courts. 



G. BEOWN GOODE. 



Smithsonian Institution, 



Washington, D. C, Dec. 1, 1879. 



