A DALESMAN FARMER. 141 



PISCATOK. These good people the farmer 

 and his wife are what they appear ; and, may 

 I not say, something more, both in substance 

 and worth. From the appearance of the old 

 man in his rough apparel, you would hardly 

 suppose him to be one of the largest sheep- 

 farmers in the country, with a flock probably 

 not under 2000; nor, from the hard aspect 

 of the dame, and her curt words, would you 

 expect so warm a heart and such genuine kind- 

 ness. But I will not anticipate : while we are 

 here, you will be able to judge for yourself; and 

 I need not say be observant, for the place 

 is a study; I hardly know another affording 

 so good an example of the dale shepherd's life. 

 But we must not forget Eskdale and our 

 angling. On a former occasion, I explored the 

 higher dale, and have a pleasant recollection 

 of its wildness and grandeur. Do see it ; you 

 cannot miss the way ; you can fish as you go. 

 I will presently follow, and we will meet here 

 in the evening. 



AMICUS. Well met. Since we parted at 

 noon, I have not seen the face of man. How 



