360 PEAIRIE AND FOREST. 



the pool, where the stream was contracted previous to- 

 forming another rapid. 



In taking my last throw, I was so near the hroken water 

 that my trail-fly was without doubt in it, when, without 

 seeing a fish, I felt a smart pluck at my line. On elevating 

 the top of my rod, I found that a small chub had taken my 

 hook. Reeling up to get rid of the incumbrance, and 

 fetching him to the surface, what was my surprise to see an 

 immense trout dash at the unfortunate captive, and in the- 

 twinkling of an eye, I had my reel going at telegraph 

 speed. Here was an adventure truly, but one out of 

 which I could scarcely expect success. Running out some- 

 thing like fifteen yards, the interloper became stationary,, 

 and well I knew he had returned to his sanctum, probably 

 to pouch the bait at pleasure. With but a slight strain 

 upon my rod, I waited on the will of his mightiness,, 

 hoping it would not be long ere his royal pleasure would 

 dictate swallowing the booty. Ten minutes, at least, I 

 remained in statu quo, when, supposing due courtesy had 

 been extended, I took a slight pull just by way of re- 

 minder. Alas, the chub came way, and, being now dead, 

 combined with the rapidity of the water, trailed upon the 

 surface. I was not disappointed the result was but 

 probable. Commencing to reel up to divest my hook of 

 the mangled carcase, I had not more than taken a few feet 

 in when, mirabile dictu, the same episode was enacted, and 

 tin- unfortunate disfigured remains of the shiner were 

 borne off, apparently to the same location. Patiently now 

 I determined to rest, hoping against chance that, in sport- 

 ivr mood, while playing with his intended dejeuner, his 



