DAYS ON THE NEPIGON. 



Furthermore, there is opportunity of dis- 

 playing original ideas as to color and form; 

 for, while the present varieties seem almost 

 countless, many other combinations may be 

 put together, though the number of standard 

 patterns actually necessary is comparatively 

 small. Frequently it signifies little, especially 

 as regards the wet fly, that the creation 

 shall bear much resemblance to anything in 

 nature. That it be artistically presented and 

 manipulated when submitted to the crowning 

 test is of infinitely greater importance. 



Besides this, there is a world of satisfac- 

 tion if one can make his own rods; but that 

 is asking almost too much, for rod-making is 

 a trade, and a good one. To become pro- 

 ficient, a long apprenticeship is needful. One 

 ought, however, to be capable of making 

 necessary repairs, though they be only tem- 

 porary. Threads, glue, a jack-knife, a mod- 

 erately well developed thumbnail, properly 

 manicured, more for business than for appear- 

 ance, are handy in a family away from home, 



if you are fairly proficient in their uses. This 

 86 



