PREFACE. IX 



" Better precepts if you can impart, 



" Why do : I'll follow them with all my heart," 



is the observation of Horace, as copied by a 

 well-known writer on the art of angling. In this 

 quotation, if applied to merciful rules in fishing, 

 I gladly concur ; it being a certain fact, the more 

 mercy we show in our sports and pastimes, the 

 more shall we enjoy the same, especially in those 

 hours we spend in the noble art of angling. 



The state of our fisheries, whether in the sea 

 or our large rivers, as a supply of cheap and 

 wholesome food for the teeming millions of our 

 increasing population, has attracted attention in 

 Parliament, and among thinking and benevolent 

 persons. Should the subject attain its due weight 

 and just proportion of interest, it will be no small 

 service to the cause of human happiness and 

 improvement that the principle of mercy in the 

 capturing of fish should prevail. 



During the pleasing hours occupied in compiling 

 these sheets, a curious legendary tale fell in the 

 author's way, which, although it exhibits a sample 

 of the marvellous, painted in glowing colours by a 

 heated fancy, yet, under the guise of fable, there 



