68 FLY-FISHING IN MAINE LAKES. 



back to first principles, and worming out a few from 

 his once (for this pot-hunting performance) favorite 

 pier. But his truer sporting feelings predominated ; 

 and we were content to talk about past victories, 

 and look forward to a season yet to come when we 

 should return to our favorite haunts, and again 

 listen to the rushing roar of Royal River, as it 

 foams, eddies, and sparkles amid its leaf-fringed 

 banks in its short yet most beautiful and pictur- 

 esque windings to the majestic lake which receives 

 it. 



And this evening we linger long and lovingly 

 upon the most favored spots, where we can drink 

 in the full glories of the sunset hour, for we feel 

 that when we retrace our steps to camp, packing 

 tip is next in order ; and though we ought to be, 

 and no doubt are, thankful for the pleasant homes 

 to which we may return, yet there is not quite so 

 much anticipation or enthusiasm in packing up to 

 return to them, as after they have nurtured and 

 sheltered us for nearly a year we are willing to leave 

 them without the faintest suspicion of regret. 



Here is a splendid opportunity to moralize, and 

 wind up my chapter on the beauties of home, the 

 necessity of recreation, etc. ; but as my moral- 

 " Liza " is averse to being flattered, and there are 

 some poor forlorn bachelors among my friends, 



