TROUT FISHING IN MAINE. 251 



bullied by officious conductors, or left shivering in some 

 out-of-the-way situation where nought can be done but 

 smoke and court Somnus in a railroad wrapper. To 

 avoid all these troubles, and, probably, a great many 

 more, if New York be your starting-place, take steam- 

 boat thence to Portland, a delightful short cruise of 

 from thirty to thirty-six hours, and if you should 

 experience bad weather, especially if it results in sea- 

 sickness, the ulterior effects will be beneficial, terra firma 

 will be more appreciated, and your appetite stimulated 

 to an unusual extent. Besides, the scenery, in those 

 places where land is visible, is pretty, while fleets of 

 fishing and trading crafts will be constantly in sight. 

 The steam- vessels on this route are very comfortable and 

 sea- worthy, and under the command of most able officers. 

 Having arrived at Portland, and enjoyed a good 

 meal and rest at one of the numerous hotels> the ter- 

 minus of the Grand Trunk Railroad will have to be 

 reached, where you will procure your ticket for Bethel, 

 Oxford County. The scenery through which you will 

 now rush, dragged by the iron horse, is magnificent, 

 alike suited to the taste of artist or sportsman ; but 

 one thing is certain to cause a regret, viz., that the 

 numerous beautiful rivers and brooks that so frequently 

 will be seen or traversed, are now destitute of fish, at 

 least so I was informed, although I could not learn 



