iv PREFATORY ADDRESS. 



all his enjoyments; this clearness and equanimity of 

 spirit being- a matter of so high a concern and value in 

 the judgments of many profound Philosophers, as any 

 one may see that will bestow the pains to read, de 

 Tranquilitate Ammi, and Petrarch de Utriusque Con- 

 dittoms Statu : Certainly lie that lives Sibi et Deo, leads 

 the most happy life ; and if this art do not dispose 

 and incline the mind of man to a quiet calm sedateness, 

 I am confident it doth not, as many other delights ; 

 cast blocks and rubs before him to make his way more 

 difficult and less pleasant. The cheapness of the recrea- 

 tion abates not its pleasure, but with rational persons 

 heightens it; and if it be delightful the charge of me- 

 lancholy falls upon that score, and if example, which 

 is the best proof, may sway any thing, I know no sort 

 of men less subject to melancholy than anglers ; many 

 have cast off other recreations and embraced it, but I 

 never knew any angler wholly cast off, though occasions 

 might interrupt, their affections to their beloved recrea- 

 tion ; and if this art may prove a Noble brave rest to 

 thy mind, it will be satisfaction to his, who is thy well- 

 wishing Friend. 



