CAUTION TO BOASTERS. 393 



identify with certainty a single parr, of which a few ha<l 

 been .-lily placed upon the platter by some observant 

 valet down below, probably as a memento to him whose 

 bark had been so much more powerful than his barb. 

 Now, we give him due warning, that if he does not mend 

 his manners, restrict his imagination, and study the specific 

 weight, dimensions, and amount of the few small fishes 

 he may chance to capture, we shall publish his name in 

 the Gazette, with no delay and less remorse, as an en- 

 sample to all who cast a stain upon our innocent craft, by 

 having thus 



" Foregone the home delight of constant truth, 

 And clear and open soul, so prized in fearless youth." 



— The Rod and the Gum. 



WALTONIAN MUSINGS. 



Let all innocent amusements be sought after with 

 assiduity and gladness, if in due subordination to more 

 pressing or important duties ; and especially, with never- 

 ceasing reference to the great Giver of all earthly bless- 

 ings, of which a tranquil and contented disposition is the 

 chief. Let the angler in the midst of all bis light amuse- 

 ment remember to what high and holy calling his ancient 

 predecessors were promote'!, and so walk 



" As ever in his great Taskmaster's eye," 



though casting not his nets by Galilean shore. When 



