INTERIOR OF A POOL ON THE RIVER. 93 



swallows abroad. I lately overheard Clang-chops, the 

 old pike, say to fat uncle Baunch, after both had taken 

 their suppers, and one might venture near them with 

 impunity, that he had not infrequently made a spring 

 after one of these birds, but found their feathers hard 

 of digestion. By-the-bye, I have not observed our 

 worthy uncle on the feed this morning. Think you 

 he is unwell ? 



1st Trout. No wonder, he over-eats himself. I 

 have no compassion for the glutton, and, should he pop 

 off, will immediately take possession of his castle, 

 being next of kin, and older than yourself by four 

 seasons. But come, let us have a peep at him, and 

 inquire after his health. How is this ? he is not 

 here ; 'tis strange indeed ! Is't possible he has changed 

 his residence ? But no, everything so comfortable ; 

 at his time of life, too, quite impossible ! But what 

 news, Master White-fin ? 



Enter another TROUT. 



3d Trout. News ! why is't not news enough, that 

 King Baunch is no more ? 



1st Trout. My fat uncle no more ! 



3d Trout. Alas ! indeed he was captured by one 

 of the land-craft no later than yester-eve. 



1st Trout. What ! out-witted too ! my clever, close, 

 sapient uncle, out-witted with a feather ! 'Tis a lesson, 

 faith, and a good one. I shan't eye food for a fort- 

 night, no, nor venture from home neither ; and now 



