74 THE FISHING-ROD; 



it is then to be raised gradually, so as to throw 

 forward the arm to its full length, the hand 

 coming to a level with the shoulder ; and 

 that this motion must be completely accordant 

 with the fall of the fly, so that it may never 

 be checked, but only guided to its destination ; 

 for whenever a check takes place, the fly will 

 descend suddenly, and cause more or less 

 agitation on the surface. As you feel the 

 line getting into its proper direction, carry 

 forward your arm with an easy movement, 

 until your hand is on a level with your 

 shoulder. By this means, the little inclination 

 the fly might have to tug, and consequently 

 to be checked short when the line acquires 

 its full extent, will be totally prevented, 

 especially if you yield a trifle more by lowering 

 your hand and arm a little, keeping them in 

 a straight line up to the shoulder ; this is 

 the double turn. Thus you will cause your 

 fly to light so very gently on the water, as 

 often to leave you in doubt as to the precise 

 spot where it fell, but which is frequently 

 pointed out by the rising of a fish deceived 

 equally with yourself by the sleight you have 

 attained/' 



