OBSERVATIONS OF THE OTTER AND CHUB 



truly, he is not to me a good companion : for most of his 

 conceits were either Scripture-jests, or lascivious jests ; for 

 which I count no man witty, for the Devil will help a man 

 that way inclined, to the first : and his own corrupt nature, 

 which he always carries with him, to the latter; but a com- 

 panion that feasts the company with wit and mirth, and leaves 

 out the sin which is usually mixed with them, he is the man; 

 and indeed such a companion should have his charges borne, 

 and to such company I hope to bring you this night ; for at 

 Trout-hall, not far from this place, where I purpose to lodge 

 to-night, there is usually an Angler that proves good company : 

 and let me tell you, good company and good discourse are the 

 very sinews of virtue : but for such discourse as we heard last 

 night, it infects others, the very boys will learn to talk and 

 swear as they heard mine Host, and another of the company 

 that shall be nameless; I am sorry the other is a gentleman, 

 for less Religion will not save their souls than a beggar's ; I 

 think more will be required at the last great day. Well, you 

 know what example is able to do, and I know what the Poet 

 says in the like case, which is worthy to be noted by all parents 

 and people of civility : 



Many a one 



Owes to his country his religion : 

 And in another would as strongly grow, 

 Had but his nurse or mother taught him so. 



This is reason put into verse, and worthy the consideration 

 of a wise man. But of this no more, for though I love civility, 

 yet I hate severe censures: I'll to my own art, and I doubt 

 not but at yonder tree I shall catch a Chub, and then we'll 

 turn to an honest cleanly Hostess, that I know right well ; 

 rest ourselves there, and dress it for our dinner. 



VEN. Oh Sir, a Chub is the worst fish that swims, I hoped 

 for a Trout to my dinner. 



Pise. Trust me, Sir, there is not a likely place for a Trout 

 hereabout, and we staid so long to take our leave of your 

 Huntsmen this morning, that the Sun is got so high, and shines 

 so clear, that I will not undertake the catching of a Trout till 

 evening; and though a Chub be by you and many others 

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