It may, however, be necessary to point 

 out a few of the leading characteristics 

 which combine to render this delightful re- 

 creation so pre-eminent amongst Rural 

 Sports ; and in the course of the w r ork to 

 connect a few observations, in orcfer to con- 

 fute the objections which prejudiced persons 

 are but too apt to bring forward in opposi- 

 tion to the gratifying pleasures which admi- 

 rers of this pursuit so justly exhibit in a 

 warm tone of colouring*. 



Without referring to the antiquity of 

 the art, as a recommendation, or enumerat- 

 ing the catalogue of virtuous qualities, such 

 as patience, perseverance, &c, of which 

 an Angler is supposed to be possessed, 

 it is simply necessary to observe, that many 

 very eminent and learned characters have 

 devoted much of their leisure time to this 

 agreeable recreation ; and it is a fact worthy 

 of notice, that although many persons 



