DRY-FLY PRELIMINARIES. 121 



the greasing process may not involuntarily be 

 extended to other property. Further, the little oil- 

 bottle should have a piece of string tied round its 

 neck by which it can be slung to a coat button, or, 

 better, to the landing-net sling. And, finally, the 

 question of boots and the probable state of the 

 river banks should have been considered. If the 

 fishery to be visited is boggy or sloppy on the 

 banks, or if the meadows adjoining it are " under 

 water," that is to say, are being irrigated by the 

 drains from the river (it is often a question of the 

 time of year) the novice would do well to take his 

 waders. If he does not possess them, let him invest 

 in a pair of indiarubber knee boots, which cost 

 something under a sovereign. I prefer them 

 unlined, wearing an extra pair of stockings to 

 absorb any moisture that may accumulate inside 

 them. These boots are not comfortable for 

 walking, but they keep one's feet dry. 



