10 



late become more common than formerly, 

 by the introduction of a breed of Spanish 

 fowls, which are perfectly black, except 

 the topping of the head. The proper time 

 of the year for the selection and pluck- 

 ing of hackles is about Christmas ; as the 

 feathers are then perfect and free from that 

 disagreeable matter, which at other times 

 is generally found in the pen part of the 

 feather. Should the Angler be so fortunate 

 as to meet with a real dun bird, either 

 cock or hen, he ought to secure it at any 

 price, as he may be considered as possess- 

 ing a treasure ; for the same fowl will fur- 

 nish him with grizzled hackles about May, 

 and dun hackles at Christmas. The fea- 

 thers from young birds before they have 

 moulted are entirely useless, being too 

 soft to play properly in' the water. The 

 mottled bright feather from the back of a 

 well grown Grouse, and the Wren's tail, are 

 on no account to be neglected. 



