The Compleat ^Angler 



And utter d by the -poet then in jest, 



ET P1SCATOREM PISCIS AMARE POTEST. 



Ch. Harvie, Mr. of Arts. 



To my dear friend \ Mr. Iz. Walton, in praise of 

 Angling, which we both love. 



Down by this smooth stream s wandering side, 



Adorn* d and -perfumed with the -pride 



Of Flora s wardrobe, where the shrill 



Aerial choir express their skill, 



First in alternate melody, 



And then in chorus all agree. 



Whilst the charmed fish, as extasy* d 



With sounds, to his own throat deny'd, 



Scorns his dull element, and springs 



I y tli air, as if his fins were wings. 



here that the pleasures sweet and high 

 Prostrate to our embraces lie. 

 Such as a body, soul, or frame 

 Create no sickness, sin, or shame. 

 Roses not fencd with -pricks grow here, 

 No sting to tti honey-bag is near. 

 But (whafs perhaps their prejudice) 

 'The difficulty, want and price. 



An obvious rod, a twist of hair, 

 With hook hid in an insect, are 

 Engines of sport, would fit the wish 

 O' tlo epicure, and fill his dish. 



In this clear stream let fall a grub ; 

 And straight take up a dacf or chub. 



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