26 OF TACKLE. 



white. By adopting the precautions recommended 

 in the following instructions, it may be used fine, 

 although as strong or nearly so as the end of the 

 line. The length of the bottom should be about 

 equal to that of the rod. 



Four or five of the very finest lengths of gut 

 should first be chosen, then three or four more of 

 the middle size, and lastly one or two much 

 stronger. 



These must all be proved before they are put 

 together, thus : One end of a length must be put 

 between the teeth, and the other pulled until the 

 gut breaks at the weakest part. This operation 

 must be repeated continually with the best por- 

 tions, until they snap with considerable resistance. 

 Then the ends may be reversed and the operation 

 proceeded with as before, until the last remaining 

 piece is deemed strong enough for its office. This 

 manner of getting rid of the bad portions will not 

 appear extravagant, but the contrary, when it is 

 considered that the loss of a whole or large part 

 of the foot-line, with a fly or two, and perhaps a 

 fine Trout, may be the consequence of an undue 

 weakness existing in any particular part of it. 



These well-proved lengths of gut must now be 

 lashed together with waxed silk, or tied by a knot, 

 and the strongest must be provided with a large 

 loop, whereby it may be attached to the line. 



