160 AN INNOCENT MISTAKE. 



because I certainly caught two trout, and put them 

 into my creel. But I dare say you are a little absent, 

 and did not notice them ; I am somewhat absent myself 

 occasionally." 



He examined the basket, and found only gloves by 

 themselves, — gloves. 



" Where can I have put them ?" 



u Indeed I can't guess, sir." 



He then began to shuffle about and examine his 

 waistcoat pockets and those of his pantaloons, nay, 

 actually his fob. 



" Perhaps, sir, you did not find quite room enough 

 in your fob, and put them into your coat pocket for 

 fear they should soil the basket." 



u Bless me ! so I did ; and here they are, truly. I 

 see now how it is ; in a hurry, and whilst I was wrapt 

 in admiration of the scenery, I put the gloves where 

 the fish should have been, and vice versa, — nothing 

 could be more natural." 



This he said with a simplicity worthy of the golden 

 age. But he declared that although he was not at that 

 moment very intent on the sport, he did like fishing 

 exceedingly. " Because," said he, " it requires no parade 

 of attendance, like other field sports; it leads to the 

 most beautiful spots ; and I take up my rod and my 

 painting box at any hour I please, and saunter over 

 the flowery meads, in a state of tranquil enjoyment, 

 amidst all the most pleasing images of rural life." 



I observed there was considerable excitement in fishing 

 occasionally, as well as tranquillity. " For instance, 

 now," said I, " there is a sea trout in that run of water 



