140 HISTOHV Ol 



sixpence to three shillings, according to the sup- 

 ply. xVlthough the muscles are not so abundant 

 as formerly, it is surprising that the great quanti- 

 ties collected have not exhausted the beds. The 

 final destination of these pearls is comi)letely hid 

 in mystery, and is only known to the gentleman 

 who buys them up, the fortunate possessor of what 

 is a valuable secret. 



The salmon caught in the Conwy is generally 

 esteemed for its fine flavour, in which respect it 

 has been pronounced not inferior to the produce 

 of the Dee and Severn. This river is also famous 

 for its brwyniaid, or sparlings, which pay their 

 visit in January and February ; they spawn in 

 March and April, after which they depart: their 

 stay seldom exceeding four weeks. They vary in 

 size, but rarely do they exceed a foot in length, or 

 more than half a pound in weight. It is a fish of 

 a beautiful form and colour, the head being trans- 

 parent, and the skin so thin, that with a micros- 

 cope the blood may be observed to circulate. They 

 have a very peculiar scent, which is compared by 

 some to cucumber or violet, but more properly to 

 rushes: ;ind their Welsh name hrwyniaid is de- 

 rived from hnvyn, rushes, owing t<» this circum- 

 stance. 



