44 SALMON FLIES 



a hook when referred to by a certain number 

 or symbol, but there should be no misunder- 

 standing as to the size of a hook referred to in 

 terms of some definite -linear measurement. 

 Whatever its demerits may be, it can at least 

 be said that a series based on a principle such 

 as this possesses the spirit of rationality in the 

 sense that it does not depend upon the wholly 

 arbitrary and inconsistent gradation of size- 

 arranged haphazard, without any consideration 

 for convenience or practical needs with which 

 the long-suffering angling public has usually 

 to be satisfied. 



At all events, I am satisfied that a standard- 

 ization of salmon hooks by uniform increments 

 in terms of inches is infinitely simpler, more 

 intelligible, more universally applicable, and 

 therefore more satisfactory generally, than 

 one which depends upon a confusing and often 

 contradictory reference to numbers or letters 

 having no relation whatever to any measure- 

 ment. 



If the reader is of the same way of thinking, 

 I invite him to look at Plates X. and XL, where 

 these " rational " hooks as I am pleased to call 

 them are to be seen. Should he desire to 



