vm. 



by foreign travellers and writers. An American 

 author of great and deservedly high reputa- 

 tion, has remarked that, " There is certainly 

 something in angling that tends to produce a 

 gentleness of spirit, and a pure serenity of mind. 

 As the English are methodical even in their 

 recreations, and are the most scientific of 

 sportsmen, it has been reduced among them 

 to a perfect rule and system. Indeed it is an 

 amusement peculiarly adapted to the mild and 

 highly -cultivated scenery of England, where 

 every roughness has been softened away from 

 the landscape. It is delightful to saunter along 

 these limpid streams, which meander, like veins 

 of silver, through the bosom of this beautiful 

 country ; leading us through a diversity of small 

 scenery; sometimes winding through orna- 

 mented grounds ; sometimes running along 

 through rich pasturage, where the fresh green 

 is mingled with sweet-smelling flowers; some- 

 times venturing in sight of villages and hamlets ; 

 and then running capriciously away into shady 

 retirements. The sweetness and serenity of 

 nature, and the quiet watchfulness of the sport, 



