VIII 



HE mating season of the fifth year! 

 Spring called forth the change. A 

 mild pressure of roe caused the 

 females to respond in subtle manner to the 

 advances of the males, while males courted 

 with all the gallantry and persistence of 

 their kind. 



Their color had changed. It was the 

 nuptial coloration that deepens the red 

 bird's wing and touches the throat of the 

 robin. The heads of the male bass turned a 

 darker hue, while the exoskeleton was of 

 richer polish. Lateral lines sprayed mucous 

 gloss over their bodies till they were sleek 

 as a trotter fresh from the brush and rub. 



85 



