ON RAPID STREAMS. OO 



woodcocks have nearly, or quite left us, and fox- 

 hunting is ended. We must nowlay aside our guns 

 and spurs, and seek some other source of amuse- 

 ment, and having packed away our gun, we shall 

 do well to take down all our rods and overhaul 

 them most carefully, try every splice, examine 

 every ferrule, scrutinize every ring, so as to leave 

 not an inch unexplored ; and put all in the very 

 best order, and prepare for constant employment ; 

 this careful overlooking of our rods and tackle 

 will save us much vexation^ as often after having 

 been put aside for some time, splices will start 

 and ferrules and brass fittings get loose, and we 

 must have everything in proper order and ready 

 for active service. And now being satisfied that 

 all is right with the rods, let us take a peep at the 

 old box of fly-making materials. Open the lid, 

 oh ! what an enthusiasm arises in the breast of 

 the young piscator, emulated by the enchanting 

 odour of the preservative spices which have now 

 quite scented the box, there placed to prevent the 

 attack of the intrusive insects. To turn out our 

 old materials in the commencement, or even in 

 anticipation of a future fishing season affords a 

 gratification to the sportsman, only equalled by 

 meeting an old friend after long" and complete 

 separation, with an interval of wintry times. It 

 is the stirring up of old memories. Oh, what 

 pleasures rush upon the mind ! What excite- 

 ment is experienced and what hopes are speculated 

 in, of deeds to be attained and feats achieved 

 with the rod and line ! How we recollect our 



