The Compleat ^Angler 



they had appeared too in something a neater dress, but that I was 

 surprised with the sudden news of a sudden new edition of your 

 Corn-pleat Angler ; so that, having little more than ten days' time to 

 turn me in, and rub up my memory (for, in truth, I have not, in all 

 this long time, though I have often thought on't, and almost as 

 often resolved to go presently about it), I was forced, upon the 

 instant, to scribble what I here present you : which I have also 

 endeavoured to accommodate to your own method. And, if mine 

 be clear enough for the honest brothers of the angle readily to 

 understand (which is the only thing I aim at) then I have my end, 

 and shall need to make no further apology ; a writing of this kind 

 not requiring (if I were master of any such thing) any eloquence to 

 set it off, or recommend it ; so that if you, in your better judgment, 

 or kindness rather, can allow it passable for a thing of this nature, 

 you will then do me the honour if the cypher fixed and carved in 

 the front of my little fishing-house, may be here explained : and to 

 permit me to attend you in public, who, in private have ever been, 

 am, and ever resolve to be, 



Sir, 



BERESFORD, Your most affectionate son and servant, 



*, 1675-76. CHARLES COTTON. 



