EGGS FOR GRANDMOTHERS 43 



a dozen yards, and that it took me three-quarters of 

 an hour to bring him to the gaff. I hesitated whether 

 I should have my lunch before or after recommencing 

 operations, but thought I would 'just try one or two 

 more casts.' The very first offer was accepted by a 

 fish, the exact counterpart of the last, only of a more 

 accommodating disposition, as he ran freely and well, 

 but speedily exhausted himself by his efforts to escape, 

 and he was on the bank beside his companion in 

 less than six minutes. I do not usually time myself, 

 but I had looked at my watch to see whether it was 

 lunch-time. I mention this occurrence to illustrate 

 the great difference in the time which may suffice to 

 tire two fishes similar in size and condition. 



I hope I have made myself fairly clear, but if it is 

 difficult to cast a good line with obstacles behind you, 

 it is hardly less so to describe the operation in such a 

 manner as to be intelligible to the reader. The best 

 description is but a very poor substitute for a 

 practical demonstration by the river-side, and I have 

 but one hint to add before I leave the subject of 

 casting. Whether you be an old hand or a beginner, 

 examine the point of your hook from time to time. 

 A sharp rap against the stones behind you may occur 

 without your being in the least aware of it, and will 

 often break the best-tempered hook that was ever 



