96 GUN, ROD, AND SADDLE. 



BLACK BASS. 



IN advocating the introduction of birds, I feel I 

 have not yet performed my work ; bear with me 

 further, and grant me space to advocate another 

 introduction that, in my opinion, deserves the favor- 

 able attention of all lovers of tl^e gentle art. 

 Although I love the dog and gun, still I am equally 

 devoted to the rod. As every season has its beau- 

 ties and its fascinations, so has every variety of field 

 sports. On a glorious September day, what can 

 exceed the pleasure of following a brace of well- 

 trained, well-bred, high-couraged dogs over the 

 golden stubbles ? On a mild spring day, with a soft 

 southwest breeze and dark clouds overhead, can any 

 thing be more delightful than following the tortuous 

 course of a trout brook, taking from pool or stream 

 the speckled beauties, or knee-deep in a rapid, bois- 

 terous river, first rising, now hooking, and perchance 

 killing the glorious salmon ? The whirr of pheasant 

 or partridge is pleasant music ; the voice of hounds 



