CHAPTER VI 

 ROD-MAKING: GLUING UP 



The attempt at gluing up his rod-joints has proven 

 the particular Slough of Despond in which the crea- 

 tive ambition of many a prospective rod-builder has 

 become hopelessly mired; so it is not without a full 

 sense of the responsibility assumed that we begin 

 this chapter. Yet despite all this listen, brother, 

 while we whisper it the writer of these words 

 has glued, does and can glue up rod-joints glue 

 them up straight, and without suffering paralyzing 

 apprehension as to the outcome while engaged in the 

 process. Therefore take heart, all ye fearful ones. 



Various recommended methods were given trial 

 before formulating the technic which has worked 

 out most successfully in our own case, and which 

 we shall conscientiously explain. 



What are the customary directions and sugges- 

 tions and their inevitable complications? about 

 as follows : First, you are told that both glue and 

 strips must be kept hot; then, that it is necessary 

 that the strips should receive a preliminary bath of 

 glue which is allowed to dry in the bamboo, filling 

 its pores; that you must heat a little and wind a lit- 



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