" We do not expect to get practical instructions from the old 

 writers on angling, but we do learn from them that it was an 

 honorable pastime and so held by those high in the various walks 

 of life. You know that in this country not many years ago a 

 fish-rod and line were considered the belongings of a sort of vag- 

 abond. I have tried to show, by quoting from various writers, that 

 angling was held in esteem by men whose opinions were entitled 

 to respect. Thank heaven, we no longer have this Puritanical 

 horror of a fish-rod in America, the only place where it ever had 

 growth." A If. Cheney. 



" I have a few rules for the care of my rods which I always 

 bear in mind, and wish I could urge upon every man who values 

 a fishing-rod. You may not need cautioning, but you will un- 

 doubtedly meet some one who does, therefore I give them to you, 

 as follows : 



" Put tips and second-joints large end DOWN in sack. 



" Straighten each joint of wood rods after use. 



' ' NEVER twist your rod in putting it together or taking it 

 apart, especially a bamboo rod. 



" Don't tie your rod up too tight in sack, it crooks the joints. 



** Don't put a rod away in a wet sack. 



" Keep rod in dry, cool place when not in use. 



"If you would not snap your flies off, treat them with the 

 utmost gentleness until the leader and snells become softened by 

 the water." (7. F. Orms. 



11 Long woollen stockings reaching midway between the knee 

 and hip, and supported by elastic side garters with breeches but- 

 toning or buckling just below the knee, is the perfection of wad- 

 ing costume. " Fits James Fitch. 



11 When I come to rapids I cast far down the foaming yeast of 

 waters and draw my dancing, leaping flies swiftly upstream. The 

 water throws the flies hither and thither in the most natural way, 

 and often from a single cast in such a place I have three trout 

 on." " Ned Bunttine." 



