AN ANGLER AT THE ANTIPODES. 117 



after losing that kraken ; but here goes for my 

 chance. And now the lines are in, will you take a 

 sup of sherry ? (Puts flask to his lips and takes a 

 consolatory pull) Ah-h-h ! 



Veteran. No sherry, thank you ; one of your 

 cheroots, if you please. (They smoke for ten minutes 

 in silence.) 



New Chum. This is getting slow I thought the 

 fish were going to feed about this time. 



Veteran. We'll see our cheroots out before we 

 stir at all events. These fish have their sudden fits 

 of sulk, like trout, and then come on the feed all at 

 once. I mean mischief yet. Ay there he was 

 sure enough ; just lifted my bait and dropped it again. 



New Chum. No wonder, when you offered him 

 such a lump " steak for three" at least. I shall steal 

 a march on you yet there was a smart jerk and 

 another take your time, Miss Lucy now for it, 

 gristes or grief! I have him, safe I hope. Well 

 pulled, my friend ! but indeed you must come in. 

 Easy there over the shallow. 



Veteran. Well hauled ! the sooner you land him 

 the better : there's a customer for the steak, and I 

 don't think he'll drop it this time. How steadily the 

 rascal walks away are you all clear? 



New Chum. Ay, "there he lies," as we used to 

 say when cock-shooting in the old country. And a 

 bonny fish, too, much like your first specimen. 



