QUALITIES OF THE LINE. 295 



Such a degree of suppleness is to be sought in a line as not to interfere 

 with the other good qualities. This can be secured and every evil defied 

 provided the line is plaited closely, dressed under a system detailed in this 

 chapter, and properly cared for after use. 



Evenness is an important factor in commanding distant catches. A 

 waterproofed line having a perfectly level surface, of proper size and 

 weight, and a flexibleness combined with a certain amount of stiffness, 

 passes so readily through the rod rings and air that to " shoot " eight or 

 ten yards of it is a profitable achievement soon mastered. At all events 

 the. Angler profits in saving himself from over-fatigue, and his rod from 

 severe treatment. In "mending a cast" an uneven line forms a 

 wavy, cramped curve in the air and spoils the business ; but this irregu- 

 larity is never seen at all with a good line. When evenness prevails the 

 ease with which the line can be lifted, or the cast effectually mended is 

 noticeable at once. Another advantage is derived from this quality, in 

 that the smoother the dressing the longer it lasts. The American 

 machine, working American, ingredients, produces a smooth, bright 

 appearance for a comparatively limited period, no matter how even the 

 line may be. In respect of polishing nothing beats handwork. 



Durability needs no justification and very little explanation. It 

 should not, however, be forgotten that silk lines as a rule do not last long 

 unless made of the best material, dried thoroughly after use and dressed 

 properly when new. 



As for using undressed silk lines, I should never think of such a thing. 

 I am puzzled to find any reasonable and sensible conclusion for the 

 strenuous recognition they receive, though a deeply-rooted mistrust of 

 them in some places is established. But still, lines of this description are 

 recommended by authorities to whose testimony we cannot fail to listen 

 with respect, whether we agree with them or not. According to my 

 experience and conviction the pleasing theory of these amicable mentors 

 has been rebutted scores of times in actual working practice. The broad 

 charge I would record against lines undressed is that they are far too 

 supple and too light in weight ; for even by the aid of upright revolving 

 rod-rings, a serious effort is needed to get them to " shoot " at all. They 

 are moreover liable to get into a confused mess, and, besides being 



