THE COMPLETE ANGLER. 49 



which I count no man witty, for the devil will help a man 

 that way inclined, to the first ; and his own corrupt nature, 

 which he always carries with him, to the latter ; but a com- 

 panion that feasts the company with wit and mirth, and 

 leaves out the sin which is usually mixed with them, he is 

 the man ; and indeed such a man should have his charges 

 borne, and to such company I hope to bring you this night ; 

 for at Trout-hall, not far from this place, where I purpose to 

 lodge to-night, there is usually an angler that proves good 

 company : and let me tell you, good company and good dis- 

 course are the very sinews of virtue : but for such discourse 

 as we heard last night, it infects others ; the very boys will 

 learn to talk and swear, as they heard mine host,'" and an- 

 other of the company that shall be nameless ; I am sorry 

 the other is a gentleman ; for less religion will not save their 

 souls than a beggar's : I think more will be required at the 

 last great day. Well ! you know what example is able to 

 do ; and I know what the poet says in the like case, 

 which is worthy to be noted by all parents and people of 

 civility : 



-many a one 



Owes to his country his religion ; 

 And in another would as strongly grow, 

 Had but his nurse or mother taught him so. 



This is reason put into verse, and worthy the consideration 

 of a wise man. But of this no more ; for though I love 

 civility, yet I hate severe censures. I'll to my own art ; and 

 I doubt not but at yonder tree I shall catch a chub : and 

 then we'll turn to an honest cleanly hostess, that I know right 

 well ; rest ourselves there ; and dress it for our dinner. 



YEN. Oh, sir ! a chub is the worst fish that swims ; I 

 hoped for a trout to my dinner. 



Pise. Trust me, sir, there is not a likely place for a trout 

 hereabout : and we staid so long to take leave of your hunts- 

 men this morning, that the sun is got so high, and shines so 

 clear, that I will not undertake the catching of a trout till 

 evening. And though a chub be, by you and many others, 

 reckoned the worst of fish ; yet you shall see I'll make it a 

 good fish by dressing it. 



YEN. Why, how will you dress him 1 



' * Of the Thatched House, at Hoddesden, where Hscator passed the first 

 night. 



I) 



