Rod-making* 199 



here, and when dry rub briskly with buckskin or a piece 

 of silk. This will give a beautiful and durable finish. 

 I use "Valentine's Quick Levelling Varnish." In good 

 drying weather, when treated as directed, a coat may be 

 applied every twenty-four hours. 



It must be remembered that all wood is hygroscopic 

 i.e., absorbs moisture from the atmosphere ; therefore 

 apply the first coat of varnish only after two or three 

 days of dry. weather. An unvarnished joint which is 

 perfection in dry weather, will be found to take a bad 

 set after some days of rain, unless it has been where the 

 air is artificially dried. 



WRAPPING ON THE RINGS. 



This is the next step in order. Assuming that you 

 have never either done this yourself or seen it done, 

 the first requisite is the mastery of the "invisible knot." 

 In the Chapter on Repairs you will find illustrated 

 directions for tying this. Another method is also given 

 of accomplishing the same result the fastening off of 

 the silk wrappings. But the acquisition of the true " in- 

 visible knot " is strongly recommended, since it may be 

 applied in many cases where the other cannot. I believe 

 it one of the most important and useful additions that 

 the angler can make to his general knowledge of the art; 

 and this not only on account of the benefit to your indi- 

 vidual self, but because it will enable you to help many 

 a brother angler, much your senior in experience and skill, 

 out of a scrape, and thus requite him for advice and in- 

 struction. The value of aid from the experienced to the 

 beginner, when given at the water's side arid rod in hand, 

 cannot be exaggerated, and you should lose no opportu- 

 nity to avail yourself of such assistance. 



