THE FLY FISHER'S GUIDE. 21 



from blemish which grow from the middle of the 

 tail. Black, although the strongest, is the least 

 serviceable colour ; brown, gray and white are to 

 be preferred, and ought to be picked with care, 

 and assorted according to their different degrees 

 of length and thickness. 



For common foot lines an engine is not neces- 

 sary, as they are easily made by separating the 

 hairs with the fore finger and thumb of the left 

 hand (having first fastened them by a knot), and 

 twisting them with the right, occasionally draw- 

 ing the hand downwards, to prevent the un- 

 twisted hairs from entangling. Taper lines of 

 any length or thickness, from two hairs upwards, 

 may be thus put together, fastening each length 

 of hair to its companion by a water knot, the 

 ends of which should be cut close, and secured 

 by a little waxed silk. When a very strong line 

 is required, it may be advisable to make use of 

 the twisting- engine, which will enable the prac- 

 titioner to complete his purpose more readily and 

 effectually than with the fingers only. 



