IN PURSUIT OF THE MAY FLY 103 



peculiar helmet of his own invention. It goes by 

 the name of BURBERRY'S GABARDINE COMBINA- 

 TION FISHING HELMET. It has a peak back and 

 front and all round, and a double rim in the fold 

 of which one can wind an extra collar and insert 

 a reserve of flies without exposure. I had pos- 

 sessed myself of one of these admirable waterproof 

 contrivances, but, alas ! now that I most wanted 

 it I had left it at home. My old felt was no match 

 for the storm my head and neck were well 

 soaked. I had on a waterproof cape, which was 

 no protection for my legs and feet. The Professor 

 was as badly off, and the active little Izaac was all 

 but drowned. How I longed for that curious 

 helmet and coveted that singular mantle which 

 Mr. Burberry calls the patent SLIP-ON. I have 

 straightway ordered one ; and never again on 

 doubtful days will I go a-fishing without it, for it 

 seems to me to be light and long, and soft and 

 pliant as silk, and presents no obstacle to one's 

 fishing. After this soaking we dined happily, we 

 slept soundly, and next morning we were as fresh 

 as young larks. But my May Fly fishing for 

 the year 1900 was over. I had to leave my good 

 old friend the Professor alone in his glory, and I 

 rejoice to hear that after I left he had some real 

 sport. 



I have headed this article " In Pursuit of the 

 May Fly." It will be seen from what I have 

 written that the pursuit has not been grand in its 

 results. The first days of June did not prove to 



