ANGLING REMINISCENCES. 85 



swallows abroad. I lately overheard Clang-chops, 

 the old pike, say to fat uncle Baunch, after both 

 had taken their suppers, and one might venture 

 near them with impunity, that he had not infre- 

 quently made a spring after one of these birds, but 

 found their feathers hard of digestion. By-the- 

 bye, I have not observed our worthy uncle on the 

 feed this morning. Think you he is unwell ? 



1st Trout. No wonder, he over-eats himself. I 

 have no compassion for the glutton, and, should he 

 pop off, will immediately take possession of his castle, 

 being next of kin, and older than yourself by four 

 seasons. But come, let us have a peep at him, and 

 inquire after his health. How is this? he is not 

 here; 'tis strange indeed! Is't possible he has 

 changed his residence ? But no, everything so com- 

 fortable ; at his time of life, too, quite impossible ! 

 But what news, Master White-fin ? 



Enter another TROUT. 



3d Trout. News ! why is't not news enough, that 

 King Baunch is no more ? 



1st Trout. My fat uncle no more! 



3d Trout. Alas ! indeed he was captured by one 

 of the land-craft no later than yester-eve. 



1st Trout. What! out-witted too ! my clever, 

 close, sapient uncle, out-witted with a feather ! ? Tis a 

 lesson, faith, and a good one. I shan't eye food for 

 a fortnight, no, nor venture from home neither ; 

 and now that I think on't, I may as well reside here, 



