240 The Natural Historg 



The Roach is here Likewise but is not as large as those in 

 Europe. It is a good Fish but its being so full of small 

 Bones makes it dangerous and Little regarded. It is re- 

 ported to be a healthful Fish and not Subject to any diseases, 

 whence comes the Proverb as sound as a Roach. The Flesh 

 is said to excite Lust and cure Fevers. 



The Carp is the same as in Europe but is not quite so large. 

 It has a short Head without either Teeth or Tongue, but 

 instead thereof a fleshy Palate that it may relish its food. 

 The Fins are broad, the Tail forked and the Body covered 

 with very large strong Scales. Its flesh is fat, soft, sweet, 

 and nourishes very much, and is best in March, the Male be- 

 ing better than the Female, and the White than the Yellow. 

 The fat cures diseases of the l^erves, the Stones about the Eyes 

 are said to be good against the heat of Fevers, and likewise 

 for the falling Sickness, and the Gall helps dimness of sight. 



The Dace is the same here as in Europe, but is not so large 

 or plentiful as with us. The flesh is soft, sweet in taste, and 

 of good nourishment; and when pickled like Anchovies after 

 the Italian manner, is Stomachical. They are best in Feb- 

 ruary, March and April, and are excellent good food roasted 

 and seasoned with Salt and Pepper. The fat helps pains in 

 the Ears. The Gall mixt with the fat or Oil is good against 

 Dimness of the Sight. 



The Flounders are here in very great plenty and as large 

 and good as any in Europe. Some of these Fish have Yel- 

 lowish spots both on the Back and fins, and taste very much 

 like a Plaise. The Indians and others kill vast quantities 

 of them not only with the Bait but likewise with their Fisn- 

 gigs, especially with Lights at Night. They are an excellent 

 Fish and of good Nourishment, strengthen the Stomach, 

 cause Appetite and help the Spleen. 



The 



