SWORD-FISH. 261 



tain, during some of the summer months. On the recess 

 of the tides, they conceal themselves about half a foot 

 under the surface of the mud or sand ; and, in some places 

 are dug out, in others drawn up by means of a hook con- 

 trived for that purpose. They are commonly used as a 

 bait for other fishes, but of themselves are very delicate 

 eating. They have been found in the stomach of the por- 

 poise ; which is a proof that the latter uses its nose to 

 turn up the sand, 



THE SWORD-FISH. 



This fish sometimes weighs a hundred pounds. The 

 body is long and rounded ; largest near the head, and ta- 

 pering towards the tail. The back is black, and the belly 

 of a silvery white colour. The upper jaw is extended into 

 a very long and depressed point, of a bony substance, 

 resembling a sword ; the under one is much shorter, and 

 terminates in a sharp point. The dorsal fin runs along the 

 whole length of the body ; the tail is remarkably forked ; 

 and there are a pair of fins at the gills, but none on the 

 belly. 



The sword-fish is common in the Mediterranean, and is 

 not an absolute stranger to our own coasts. It is said to 

 be very voracious, and to be a particular enemy to the 

 funny. Its flesh is highly esteemed. The ancient mode 

 of catching it, as described by Strabo, entirely agrees 

 with the modern. One person ascends a cliff that over- 

 hangs the sea ; and, as soon as he spies the fish, he gives 

 notice of the course which it takes to another stationed 

 in a boat at some little distance. The latter immediately 

 climbs the mast, and directs the rowers towards it. When 

 within reach, he descends ; and taking a spear in his hand, 

 strikes it into the fish; which, after fruitlessly wearying 

 itself with agitation, is at length seized, and dragged into 

 the boat. 



