DIES PISCATORI^. 491 



could influence otliers, to curb that disposition, which alas, is 

 so common, to fill the creel at the sacrifice of the rules of fair 

 angling, and to repress any inordinate rivalry or competition 

 on the stream ; being convinced that to enjoy the sport to its 

 fullest, the angler should be at peace with himself and all the 

 world. These lessons they endeavor to teach by precept and 

 example, wherever they find those who desire to be instructed 

 in the mysteries of their craft. 



When the "Houseless" were organized as a club, our good 

 president was appointed to draft a^set of rules for our guidance, 

 and a preamble and address setting forth the object of our 

 association. It has lain undisturbed on a shelf of my tackle- 

 closet, bound in its cover of modest brown paper, and tied 

 with an old fishing-line,, this many a long year. I took it 

 down the other day, and read it with a feeling akin to rever- 

 ence. Why should I not insert it here? I tliink it will 

 touch a chord of sympathy in every devout angler's heart. 



PREAMBLE. 



Whereas : We, the undersigned, being drawn towards each other by 

 that feeling of regard and sympathy which should animate the hearts of 

 all true anglers, haying in view the humble virtues of honest Izaak of 

 blessed memory, which we would emulate ; and recalling with heartfelt 

 pleasure the happy hours we have passed by stream and pool, and the 

 peaceful friendship which has ripened there, do heartily concur in the 

 sentiments expressed in the following address by our brother, W. M***** 

 J)**** . 



ADDRESS. 



In the year 1653, now just two complete centuries since, was published 

 by one Izaak Walton, a Treatise, entitled " The Complete Angler ; or the 

 Contemplative Man's Recreation." Therein he performed a mission ; and 

 how well 'twas done the united testimony of all true "Brothers of the 

 Angle " bear loving witness. 



Therein he sayeth, " I doubt not but if you and I did converse together 

 but a few hours, to leave you possessed with the same high and happy 



